THE husband of a Pudsey woman who died from an asbestos-related cancer has joined with legal experts to appeal for witnesses to come forward with information to help determine how she became exposed to the substance.

Rita Chambers was married to Stephen, but died in September last year at the age of 77, just three months after being diagnosed with mesothelioma – a cancer of the lining of the lungs.

Rita was employed as a sewing machinist within the tailoring industry in Leeds during the 1950’s and 1960’s, when the trade was booming in the city.

She worked in close proximity to asbestos materials and pads.

Oliver Collett, specialist asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Stephen on behalf of Rita, said: “Unfortunately, in my line of work I see many people that have suffered the devastating effects of asbestos exposure, most many years after the initial exposure took place.

“Mesothelioma is a usually fatal disease which results in a great deal of suffering for victims and their loved ones, and sadly Rita did not survive long enough to get justice.

“We are determined to get answers for Stephen and find out where his wife was exposed to asbestos and if more could have been done to help her.”

She and Stephen were together for around 30 years and got married in 2003. Rita was mum to daughter Julie and son David, and she had four grandchildren.

Stephen said: “These last few months have been really difficult for me and I still miss Rita terribly.

“I found it so hard to watch her suffer the breathlessness and chest pain. She also lost a lot of weight and had no appetite towards the end.

“While nothing will bring her back, I need to get the answers she was looking for before she died.

“I would be very grateful if anyone who worked with Rita, and may have information that could help with the investigation, would come forward.

“Even the smallest of details could have a huge impact on the case.”

Anyone with any information to assist with this case is asked to contact Oliver Collett on 0113 394 6784 or e-mail oliver.collett@irwinmitchell.com.