Family's plea for justice over Wolverhampton worker's asbestos death
The family of a Wolverhampton man who died as a result of exposure to asbestos while at work are appealing for information about his working life as they seek 'justice' over his death.
Barry Ellis, from Pattingham, could have been exposed to asbestos over a period of more than three decades when he was employed by several different firms, according to his family.
He died on March 17 last year, aged 66. In September a coroner ruled his death was as the result of industrial disease.
During his career he worked as an apprentice fitter for Central Plant Limited, based in Ounsdale Road, Wombourne.
Between 1965 and 1970 his duties included making repairs to hire equipment and re-lining and fitting new brake shoes.
Then between around 1970 and 1972 Mr Ellis worked as an explosive engineer at Swinnerton & Miller, based on Rosehill, Willenhall.
While there he was routinely required to drill holes through walls and ceilings so explosives could be inserted.
Thirdly he worked with Wilkins & Mitchell Limited from roughly 1973 until 1992.
His family said he was a driver but also worked in the factory which produced clutch plates for the automotive industry.
And from around 1994 to 2000 Mr Ellis was employed by Global Power Press Limited based on the Leamore Industrial Estate in Bloxwich.
His daughter, Jodie Winfield, hopes that anyone who remembers working with Barry at any of the four companies may be able to confirm how and when he came into contact with the lethal asbestos fibres.
Kate Price, a legal expert on asbestos claims who is representing the family, said: "We hope that anyone who may remember working with Barry or working at the companies gets in touch as they may have the answers that Jodie desperately needs.
"Any information from his former workmates will help us achieve some sort of justice for Mr Ellis."
Anyone with information which could held is asked to contact Ms Price on 03700 864031.
