THE family of a Leigh athlete who died after contact with asbestos have attended a public meeting in the hope of re-opening their compensation case.

Dennis Topping, of Pennington Road, Leigh, died of malignant mesothelioma last November -- 30 years after having contact with asbestos while working for two local industrial giants, Turner Brothers and Courtaulds.

Mr Topping and his family had been fighting for compensation, and ultimately recognition for his illness which subsequently led to his death, since his diagnosis in 1997. Last year they were told claims had been halted indefinitely because the companies had gone into voluntary liquidation.

They then faced a second set-back when the Court of Appeal prevented compensation being paid in cases involving more than one employer.

But Mr Topping's wife, Patricia, is determined to continue fighting.

She said: "It isn't about the money anymore. It would have helped him to live his last months in a bit more comfort, but now it is more about the principle. Someone is responsible for his death."

More than 400 people, including asbestos support groups, victims and their families, travelled from as far as London and Scotland to attend a public meeting in Manchester on Friday.

Leigh MP Andy Burnham was also at the meeting to show his support.

A lobby of Parliament is planned for April with further meetings and talks with the Government also scheduled for the coming weeks.