Widow of salmonella victim launches legal bid

A woman whose husband died after contracting food poisoning whilst on holiday is seeking compensation from the tour operator.

Evesham couple Geoffrey and Jean Appleyard were holidaying in Italy in the summer of 2008 when Mr Appleyard, 71, contracted salmonella food poisoning.

Eight other people also fell ill, but Mr Appleyard had recently had stomach surgery so was unable to fight off the illness. He later died.

Last year, Worcestershire Coroner, Geraint Williams, ruled that the four-star Grand Hotel on the banks of the picturesque Lake Garda had kitchens that were "riddled" with salmonella and was therefore at fault for the illness and death.

The source of the infection was believed to be stagnant water in the hotel's wine cellar.

 Tour operator TUI UK Ltd, part of the Thomson group, has admitted liability, but has not yet organised compensation.

Salmonella is one of the most common forms of illness abroad. Symptoms include diarrhoea, headaches, a temperature, blood in stools, vomiting and lethargy.

 Causes can include eating contaminated or undercooked food, chicken, beef and eggs can be particularly bad culprits or poor food hygiene practices allowing cross contamination.

 Suffering from food poisoning can ruin your holiday abroad. Anyone affected should seek medical advice immediately. The Environmental Health Department should also be notified so an inspection can be made if required.   

If it is confirmed you are suffering from food poisoning that has been caused by a third party you may have grounds to make a claim for compensation.