Terminal Cancer Diagnosis Sparks Asbestos Investigation in Birmingham
An elderly widower, diagnosed with a terminal asbestos-related cancer, has launched a heartfelt appeal for information regarding his former workplace at Birmingham's historic Bingley Hall. John Benson, 85, from Lewisham in London, has instructed specialist lawyers to investigate whether his illness is linked to his career as a market salesman, during which he frequently attended indoor shows at the now-demolished venue.
Decades-Old Exposure Suspected at City Centre Venue
John Benson worked as a self-employed market salesman from 1965, selling items such as non-stick cookware, slicers, knives, food cleaners, and haberdashery. He regularly participated in exhibitions at the former Birmingham Bingley Hall, which was located on the site of the current International Convention Centre in the city centre before being demolished in the 1980s following a fire. Benson recalls arriving early to set up his stalls amidst a dusty environment filled with banging, sawing, and construction work as exhibition stands were built. He strongly believes that asbestos materials may have been used in these constructions, potentially leading to his exposure.
Devastating Health Decline and Family Impact
In March 2024, John began experiencing shortness of breath while walking, which led to a diagnosis of mesothelioma in August 2024 after extensive medical tests. Mesothelioma is a terminal cancer most commonly affecting the lining of the lungs and is almost exclusively associated with asbestos exposure, often occurring decades after initial contact. Since his diagnosis, Benson has been undergoing a course of dual immunotherapy treatment. The news has been particularly devastating as he lost his wife, Sheila, aged 80, in 2023. He is a stepfather to Denise, 60, and has two step-grandchildren, Emily, 21, and Alice, 20.
John expressed his shock and frustration, stating, "Before being diagnosed, I was very fit and healthy. I managed to do a lot of things around the house and enjoyed gardening, which I spent a lot of time doing after losing my wife. Being told I had mesothelioma came as a huge shock, particularly because it wasn’t really something I’d heard of before." He added, "While I know I can’t change anything, I feel like I at least deserve some answers as to why I’ve been left with this life-limiting disease."
Legal Team Urges Public Assistance
Lacey St James, the lawyer representing John Benson at Irwin Mitchell, emphasized the severity of the situation. "John remains devastated by his diagnosis and what it means for the future. He also understandably has a number of questions over how he came to be exposed to asbestos," St James said. "Mesothelioma is a horrific disease, with too many lives impacted by it. We can’t change what John’s going through but are determined to help provide him with the answers he deserves."
The legal team highlights that, despite the exposure likely occurring years ago, there was a known legal duty to protect workers from asbestos dangers at third-party sites. They are urging anyone with relevant information about working conditions at Birmingham Bingley Hall during the 1960s and beyond to come forward. Potential details could include:
- Specific knowledge of asbestos use in construction materials at the venue.
- Memories of dust control measures or safety protocols during exhibitions.
- Information about other workers or companies involved in stand building.
John Benson concluded with a poignant appeal: "The future for me is very uncertain now and I can’t just sit back without knowing how this happened. If anyone can come forward and help, I would be very grateful." Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Lacey St James at Irwin Mitchell via phone or email to assist in this critical investigation.
