A family in Weston-super-Mare is searching for answers following the death of their father, Anthony Lovell, who passed away in November 2024 aged 85 from lung fibrosis, a condition likely linked to asbestos exposure.
An inquest revealed that scarring of the lungs caused by likely asbestos exposure contributed to Anthony’s death. His sons, Neil and Mark Lovell, aged 53 and 61, are determined to understand how their father could have been exposed to asbestos during his working life.
Neil described his father as a kind and sociable man who cherished spending time with family and friends. “Dad was very close to both of us; we spent a lot of time together, especially as he lived with me,” Neil said. “Before his illness, he remained active for his age, enjoying visits to local pubs such as the Regency and Conservative Club, and tending to his garden, which was his pride and joy.”
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The onset of Anthony’s breathing difficulties was sudden and rapid. “It was incredibly difficult to witness how quickly Dad’s health declined,” Neil added. “Doctors only asked about asbestos exposure after his scan, which was the first time this possibility was raised. This left us with many questions about where he might have encountered asbestos.”
Fibrosis of the lungs is a rare but serious condition resulting in lung scarring and breathing difficulties. While its causes are not always known, the NHS states that long-term exposure to dust, including asbestos fibres, can sometimes lead to the disease.
Anthony had a career primarily as a roofer and plumber in the Bristol and Weston-super-Mare areas during the 1960s. He began working with Arthur Scull & Son Ltd in 1961, which later became Drake & Scull Engineering Co Ltd. After about five years with the company, he joined Plumbing and Heating Specialists Ltd in 1966, where he worked for approximately one year.
Throughout his career, Anthony handled roofing materials and insulation as a roofer and worked with lead piping as a plumber. Neil and Mark have engaged lawyers from Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether his occupational exposure contributed to his illness and are keen to speak to any former colleagues who might provide insight.
Eleanor Phillip, a solicitor specialising in asbestos-related disease at Irwin Mitchell, said: “Anthony’s death has had a profound and devastating effect on his family. Asbestos-related conditions often emerge many years after exposure, and understanding the circumstances is vital for those left behind. Neil and Mark are seeking answers to better comprehend their father’s illness and whether more could have been done to protect him.”
She added, “We encourage anyone who worked with Anthony or recalls the working conditions he experienced to come forward, as their information might be crucial in providing the family with the clarity they deserve.”
Members of the public with information are invited to contact Eleanor Phillip at Irwin Mitchell by phone on 029 2097 2206 or via email at [email protected].
Representatives from Drake & Scull Engineering Co Ltd and Plumbing and Heating Specialists Ltd have been contacted for comment.