The family of a former builder and shopfitter who died from asbestos-related cancer is seeking information from former colleagues about his exposure.

Gordon Wood, aged 74, died in December 2023, just six months after being diagnosed with mesothelioma, an aggressive and incurable cancer attributed to occupational asbestos exposure, which typically occurs decades before symptoms appear.

He had spent much of his working life as a builder and shopfitter, working in the Bath, Radstock and Paulton areas, and was frequently involved in demolition projects where asbestos exposure was likely.

After his diagnosis, he sought the help of Thompsons Solicitors to investigate the circumstances surrounding his exposure. Following his death, his family vowed to continue his search for answers.

They urge anyone who worked with Mr Wood at building firms across southern England to share details of working conditions and asbestos exposure.

Amanda Jones, of Thompsons Solicitors, seeks colleagues who worked with Mr Wood in the late 1960s–1980s at Hayward & Wooster, F.J. Amery & Sons, and Ernest Ireland.

The family recalls that Mr Wood did speak of a time in the 1980s when his "building gang was clearing asbestos from the roof of the Marks and Spencer storeroom in Bath" and how “one of the bosses stopped the work due to new asbestos-related legislation,” with a specialist team called in to complete the job.

Commenting on the case, Amanda, from Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Mr Wood’s family is understandably seeking answers about where and when he was exposed to asbestos during his working life. His death has left many questions, and we are urging anyone who worked with him to please come forward and share their experiences so that we can learn more about where he worked and the conditions in which he worked.”

Anyone with information can contact Amanda Jones on 01554 779940 or via email at [email protected].