David Haggata, known as Dave, died at the age of 80 just weeks after being diagnosed with mesothelioma - a cancer linked to asbestos exposure. His family believe his illness may be connected to his time working as a maintenance engineer at a tractor factory in Basildon. Loss - Dave sadly passed away in August 2025 (Image: Irwin Mitchell)Dave, from Hornchurch, worked for Ford Motor Company Limited at the Cranes Farm Road tractor plant before it became the New Holland tractor factory. Heartbroken - Dave's family are seeking answer (Image: Irwin Mitchell)Sandra said: “We were all devastated when we found out Dave had cancer. Illness - Dave worked in Basildon between 1979 and 1998 (Image: Irwin Mitchell)Despite being fit and healthy, his condition deteriorated quickly after he first became unwell in June 2025.