Rachel Reeves, Leeds West MP and Shadow Chief Secretary to the Treasury, was invited by Russell Hancock, Trustee of the JHMRF and son of June Hancock, to become a Patron of the Fund. She has always been supportive of our work and for victims of the horrendous asbestos legacy in Armley, Leeds, where June Hancock was exposed to asbestos as a small child. We were absolutely delighted when she accepted.

Here’s what Rachel had to say, “I am proud and honoured to have been invited to become Patron of the June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund.

The Fund is crucial in the battle against the devastating effects of mesothelioma, often contracted in the workplace. June Hancock fought against the terrible legacy of the JW Roberts factory in Armley, and paved the way for many others to fight against this awful disease.

The fight for the government to take asbestosis victims seriously is not over, and the work to support those suffering from asbestosis, pleural plaques and mesothelioma mustn’t stop.”

Russell Hancock added, “Rachel’s predecessor John Battle was also a patron of the Fund, and a person who cared deeply about his community and the injustices that so many asbestos victims faced. In Rachel we are lucky to have found someone who cares just as deeply and is able to pick up where John left off whilst providing a voice in not just the community but in the wider sense, via the media and in Parliament. John Battle was a wonderful supporter of the Fund and a voice for victims and we shall always be grateful for his dedication and commitment. He remains a friend to us all. We are extremely grateful and proud that Rachel has joined us as Patron of the Fund.”