A FORMER smoker's compensation claim against cigarette giants Gallaher collapsed in the High Court in Belfast yesterday.
Mr John Dean (41), from Ballywalter, Co Down, had claimed that a rare circulation disorder, Beurger's disease, was caused by smoking Gallaher's cigarettes since he was 12.
Mr Dean said the disease caused a blockage of his veins and arteries which forced him to give up his job as an electrician. But the case folded following weekend consultations between Mr Dean and his lawyers.
"The plaintiff was legally advised that having regard to the state of the evidence, the continuance of the case was not justified, said a spokesman for Mr Dean's solicitors, Fitzpatrick and Company.
When the case began a week ago Mr John Hood, a consultant at Belfast's Royal Victoria Hospital, said Beurger's disease was the most probable diagnosis and smoking was the main risk factor in vascular disease.
Costs were awarded against Mr Dean. But as he was on legal aid he will not have to pay.