An 81-year-old widow is appealing for information after she was diagnosed with an asbestos-related cancer she believes is linked to handling her late husband’s work clothes.

Opal Gibson, had mesothelioma diagnosed in February last year after experiencing increasing breathlessness and being urged to visit a doctor by her children.

Mrs Gibson’s husband Michael worked for Frys Metals Ltd - also known as Frys Metal Foundries Ltd and Alpha Fry Ltd, based at the Tandem Works in Colliers Wood - prior to his death in 1989 from the same asbestos-related condition.

News Shopper:

Fry's Metalworks, Colliers Wood circa 1988. Picture: Merton Memories at Merton Council 

Mrs Gibson, who lives in Manor Road, West Wickham, said: "Michael worked as a development engineer and supervisor at Frys Metals. His office was in a factory where asbestor sheets were cut and his work clothes were often very dusty when he came home."

Mr Gibson successfully pursued a claim for his own condition against the company before his death.

Jackie Wood, from Thompson’s Solicitors, who is representing Mrs Gibson, said: "We understand that before his death, Opal’s husband came into regular contact with asbestos dust while working at Fry’s Metals. The dust was taken home on his contaminated work clothes.

"We are seeking any information in relation to working conditions at Frys Metals prior to Mr Gibson’s death in 1989.

Mrs Gibson said: "It has been a huge blow to be diagnosed with mesothelioma, the same condition from which Michael died. If anyone has any information to help our family, please come forward and speak to Thompsons."

Anyone who thinks they may have information that can help Mrs Gibson should call Ms Wood on 020 7290 0031 or email jackiewood@thompsons.law.co.uk