THE FAMILY of a man who died of cancer are taking legal action against his former employers, who they allege exposed him to asbestos.

Sankey Bridges resident Allan Fox died at the age of 78 in December 2015, leaving behind his wife Evelyn.

He had earlier been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused by breathing in hazardous fibres that kills around 2,500 people in the UK every year.

Now his family are taking legal against Howley-based construction company Harry Fairclough Limited, where Allan was employed as an apprentice joiner and time-served joiner in the mid-1950s and early 1960s.

They allege that he was exposed to harmful chemicals in his role, which involved cutting asbestos boards for soffits, shuttering and boxing in pipework as well as fitting the materials on-site.

Former co-workers of Mr Fox are being sought for information about practices at the company.

A statement issued by his family said: “He was taken from us far too early in his life and no words can describe our loss – cancer is a horrible death for all involved.

“Despite his passing we have taken over Allan’s claim to ensure he gets the justice he deserves and we ask for anyone who worked with him at Harry Fairclough Limited to contact Catherine Higgins Law.”

Mr Fox visited Liverpool-based firm Catherine Higgins Law shortly before his death and instructed them to take legal action.

Director Elizabeth Forrester said: “Sadly Allan’s case is not an uncommon one – here at Catherine Higgins Law we learn of many asbestos-related illnesses that are caused by employers not providing their employees with sufficient protection.

“In Allan’s case he was not advised of the danger he was being exposed to and he was not instructed to wear a mask.

“Allan developed and succumbed to mesothelioma, an illness that could have been prevented if it weren’t for a deficiency in his employer’s health and safety regime.

“To support Allan’s case we’re looking for people who worked with him at Harry Fairclough Limited in the mid-1950s and early 1960s.

“I’d like to urge anyone who can provide information about his employment, the sites he worked at and the working conditions at Harry Fairclough Limited to get in touch by calling 0151 236 8840.”

Harry Fairclough Limited has declined to comment on the matter at this time.