A Lancashire cancer survivor is urging his former work colleagues to come forward to provide information about his exposure to chemicals at work.

Terry Burns, 51, from Burnley was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2005.

Terry, who is a former Chair of Lancashire County Council and is the North West Political Officer for Unite the Union, has had chemotherapy and surgery to fight the disease.

Certain chemicals are known or suspected to cause bladder cancer many years following the initial exposure.

Terry is now calling for his former work mates to come forward to help his legal representatives, Thompsons Solicitors, piece together information about his working conditions.

Did you work at Lucas Aerospace in Burnley from 1978 to 2000?

Terry was employed as a technician by aircraft systems manufacturers Lucas Aerospace, at Wood Top, Hargher Clough and Heasandford sites in Burnley from 1978 to 2000.

He worked in inspection and his job included degreasing parts with a special chemical.

Terry, who has a wife and three sons, the youngest is just 15, was diagnosed with cancer when he noticed blood in his urine.

He said: "I never expected to be diagnosed with cancer. I have always been fit and healthy. I have never smoked but when the consultant mentioned the cancer was likely to have been caused by chemicals I decided to find out if that was the case.

"I had an operation in 2005 and fortunately at the moment the cancer is being held at bay. I have no idea what the future holds for me but I feel positive at the moment."

Client representative at Thompsons Solicitors Marion Voss added: "Exposure to certain chemicals can increase the risk of bladder cancer. Fortunately Mr. Burns' condition is being treated at present. However, it's important that we trace his former workmates so we can build up a more accurate and complete account of his working environment and history of chemical exposure."

Anyone with any information who worked with Mr Burns at Lucas Areospace from 1978 to 2000 should contact Marion Voss on 08000 224 224.

This news story was also published by Lancashire Telegraph.

Thompsons Solicitors are specialists in occupational cancer claims and securing bladder cancer compensation.