IN response to Stuart Marshall's concerns for a Memorial Arch for the victims of the asbestos related deaths at York Carriageworks (March 7), I also lost my father to mesothelioma caused when he worked there.

My father died in 1989 at 57. He was told he would have an average life expectancy when he was diagnosed with asbestosis back in 1975. He had to retire because of ill-health when he was 48.

I shall always remember the white powder on my father's overalls. I only wish we knew the damage it was causing back then.

For many years York Carriageworks denied the dangers which were caused by the white dust.

A Memorial Arch for the victims of the carriageworks is the least that should be done to remember all those lives prematurely lost.

I live with the loss of my father every day.

Lisa Pratt,

Bellwood Drive,

Foxwood,

York.

Updated: 09:39 Friday, March 11, 2005