'I feel lucky to be here': Leeds mechanic issues asbestos warning after mesothelioma diagnosis

A former vehicle mechanic from Pudsey is warning of the dangers of asbestos after being diagnosed with mesothelioma decades after exposure.

James Kell, known as Jim, was diagnosed with the asbestos-related cancer at 63 as a result of exposure many years earlier.

After leaving school in the 1970s, Jim worked for a local scrapyard and demolition company, where he first encountered the harmful substance. He later worked as a car mechanic at several garages in Leeds throughout the 1970s and 1980s, before moving on to military vehicles in the 1990s.

In both roles, he regularly handled brakes and clutches, many of which contained asbestos. Although the substance was banned in the UK in 1999, it continues to pose risks.

In November 2022, Jim fell ill and was admitted to A&E, where a CT scan revealed a mass near his oesophagus. He was diagnosed with mesothelioma in March 2023 and underwent surgery to remove part of his right lung, followed by a year of immunotherapy.

“Hearing I had cancer was the worst day of my life. Everything changed in a moment, and it’s never been the same since,” he said.

“Despite this, I believe a positive mindset has helped me live with the disease. It’s been a horrible experience, but I feel lucky to still be here with my family - I know others haven’t been so fortunate.”

Jim had to stop working after his diagnosis, leading to a significant loss of income for him and his wife, Bernadette, 55.

“I’ve had to slow down, which is very frustrating. I can no longer work on cars or go for walks, which I used to enjoy,” he said. “However, I’m grateful for the time I’ve spent with my family, who have stood by me throughout.”

After his diagnosis, Jim received support from Yorkshire and Humberside Asbestos Support Group (SARAG) and Mesothelioma UK. With help from lawyers at Irwin Mitchell, he also secured a six-figure payout after investigating his exposure.

Nicola Handley, the specialist lawyer who represented Jim, said the case highlights the lasting impact of asbestos.

“After his diagnosis, Jim and his family understandably had concerns about the future,” she said. “While asbestos has been banned since 1999, it still poses a very real risk. Cases like this show why awareness and vigilance remain vital.”

Jim added: “By speaking out, I hope my story raises awareness of how dangerous asbestos still is, and that future generations can learn from the mistakes of the past.”