The family of Bristol woman who died from an asbestos-related lung cancer is appealing for information from people who may have worked alongside her.

Marlene Vile, nee Tilzey died in February after being diagnosed with mesothelioma, an incurable cancer which affects the lining of the lungs, in September 2012. An inquest which recorded a narrative verdict citing mesothelioma as the cause of death took place on Friday 19 July 2013.

Worked at Robinsons factories in Bristol and Keynsham

Between 1958 and 1964 Marlene worked for E S & A Robinson Limited. Firstly at the paper bag factory in West Street factory in the Bedminster area of Bristol where she was involved with the manufacture of record sleeves, and later moving to the factory in Keynsham, near the Wier, where she was involved in the manufacture of flour bags.

After being diagnosed, Marlene sought legal help. With support from her daughter’s trade union - UNISON and asbestos claim specialists Thompsons Solicitors investigations are being pursued into how Marlene was exposed to asbestos.

Appeal for information about her asbestos exposure

Her family is asking for people with information about the construction and maintenance of either Robinsons factory, or the work that went on within the factories which could have involved asbestos, to contact Thompsons Solicitors.

Her daughter, Deborah Bailey, said: “Mum was devastated when she was diagnosed with mesothelioma. She had to think back many years to recall all of the places she had worked where she could have been exposed to asbestos and remembers both of the Robinsons factories being very dusty.

“She also worked as a cleaner at Connaught Primary School in Bristol in the 1970s where she remembered asbestos being removed from one of the classrooms. If anyone has information about either of the Robinsons factories or the removal of asbestos from the school in the 1970s, please get in touch.”

Amanda Jones from Thompsons Solicitors added: “Many people mistakenly believe that mesothelioma is a disease which only affects elderly men who previously worked in heavy industry or construction. However, we are now seeing an increasing number of tragic cases where asbestos has devastated the lives of women, like Marlene.

“It is vital to the case that we build up an accurate picture of Marlene’s asbestos exposure.”

Anyone with any information should contact Amanda Jones at Thompsons Solicitors on 01792 484922 or email amandajones@thompsons.law.co.uk.