We issued proceedings against the farm in June this year. The farm has since declined to admit liability for the twins’ illness, despite the publication of the Health Protection Agency’s report into the outbreak which found there were numerous failings in the way in which the farm handled the outbreak and in its appreciation of the risk associated with E.Coli 0157.
With no admission of liability from the farm, the serving of proceedings means the case will potentially now go to trial.
Both of the twins, now aged three, suffered kidney failure and spent weeks in hospital after being infected with E.Coli 0157 on their visit in August 2009. Medical evidence obtained in the course of the litigation indicates that both Todd and Aaron have impaired kidney function and are at risk of renal failure (meaning dialysis and kidney transplants) and other complications in the future that could have a serious impact on their lives. Aaron until very recently was using a feeding tube for ingesting liquids.
The twins mother Tracy Mock has instructed Jill Greenfield, partner in our personal injury team, to bring the claim in the High Court. The claim is for damages for personal injury and consequential loss.
Jill Greenfield said: “It is disappointing that the farm and/or its representatives have chosen not to admit liability in this case, despite the findings of the Griffin Inquiry which criticised the farm. This means that all the families may have no alternative but to take the matter to a full trial.”
You can speak to any member of the personal injury team by calling freephone 0800 358 3848,For further information or if you have an E. Coli 0157 claim contact Jill Greenfield on 0330 460 67787 or email jill.greenfield@fieldfisher.com.