A former college technician from Norfolk who was diagnosed with mesothelioma a year ago has joined with lawyers to appeal to his former colleagues for help as he seeks answers and justice regarding his illness.

Eastern Daily Press: Dacorum College, 1983, left to right, John Wiles, Mike Thompson, Tracey (student), John Bott, Denis Miles and Graham Buckland. Photo: Irwin MitchellDacorum College, 1983, left to right, John Wiles, Mike Thompson, Tracey (student), John Bott, Denis Miles and Graham Buckland. Photo: Irwin Mitchell (Image: Irwin Mitchell)

Graham Buckland, 77, from Emneth near Wisbech, was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lung associated with asbestos exposure, in September 2016 following a biopsy at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn.

Following the news, he instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell's Cambridge office to help him discover how he developed the illness and whether more could have been done to protect him.

After reviewing his work history, it is believed Mr Buckland may have been exposed to the deadly material during his time working as a technician at Dacorum College, Hemel Hempstead, for Hertfordshire County Council between 1982 and 1992.

Mr Buckland said he remembered asbestos being removed from the fabric of the building while he worked there and believes his former colleagues will recall the removal work being done.

As part of their work, Mr Buckland's legal representatives are now keen to hear from anyone who may have more information regarding the presence of asbestos at the site during that time period.

Mr Buckland said: 'The tiles were often removed, replaced and drilled into, during a range of refurbishment work and, as I had not been given any warnings or protection, I would tend to sweep up any dust myself. When the asbestos removal works eventually took place, it's quite likely that I was again exposed to asbestos dust.

'When you go to work you simply never expect that your health may be put at risk, yet I'm stunned by the fact that this appears to be the case. I am desperate to know whether more should have been done to protect me and would be hugely grateful if anyone with information regarding asbestos at the college could come forward.

'Any detail no matter how small could make a huge difference.'

Anyone with information which may be able to help this case is urged to contact Martyn Hayward on 0370 1500 100 or email martyn.hayward@irwinmitchell.com.