The widow of former Plymouth scaffolder Denis Tapp is making a heartfelt appeal for former colleagues to come forward with information about asbestos exposure at Plymouth’s Devonport Dockyard.
Mr Tapp, who worked for UBM Scaffolding Ltd between 1978 and 1984, was diagnosed with mesothelioma and sadly died earlier this year. His family has instructed specialist asbestos solicitors at Hugh James to seek justice and they believe testimony from people who worked alongside him could be crucial.
Mr Tapp’s scaffolding work took him across the dockyard, including the blacksmith shop and major refits on HMS Ark Royal and HMS Eagle.
Anyone who remembers conditions on those jobs, or who has knowledge of asbestos exposure affecting scaffolders at the dockyard or elsewhere during that period, is being urged to get in touch. Jemima Ware, asbestos claims solicitor and associate at Hugh James, said:
“We are hoping to help Mr Tapp’s widow by locating others who worked for UBM Scaffolding Ltd in the 1970s and 1980s at Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth and elsewhere on other contracts.
"If you worked with Mr Tapp at any point during his career or have any information relating to asbestos exposure as a scaffolder at the dockyard or elsewhere, Mr Tapp’s family would greatly appreciate your assistance.”
Witness accounts can help establish when and where exposure happened and may assist in holding the responsible parties to account. Even brief recollections about dust, protective equipment, or the way scaffolding tasks were carried out could help the family’s case.
If you can help, please contact Jemima Ware in the specialist Hugh James asbestos team by calling 02922 675 827 or emailing Jemima.Ware@hughjames.com.
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