A widow is seeking over £200,000 in compensation after her husband died from a listeria infection following consumption of a luxury cheese she bought him as a Valentine's gift.
Background of the Case
Roger Parkes, a self-taught artist and chef, fell seriously ill and died in February 2023, days after eating 'Baronet' Reblochon cheese purchased from The Old Cheese Room by his wife, Carina Parkes. An inquest concluded his death was caused by multiple organ failure and meningitis linked to listeria contamination.
Company's Response
The Wiltshire-based cheese company, led by master cheesemaker Julianna Sedli, admitted the cheese was contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes but denies responsibility for Mr. Parkes' death, citing his pre-existing health conditions, including recent aortic surgery and other cardiovascular issues.
The company issued a product recall in March 2023 after Mr. Parkes' death, and two other individuals also fell ill from the same batch.
Legal Arguments
Shahram Sharghy, representing Mrs. Parkes, argues that the cheese was unfit for human consumption due to the company's manufacturing process. Alexander MacPherson, for The Old Cheese Room Ltd, contends that Mr. Parkes' death may have resulted from his medical history rather than the listeria infection.
The case is set for a pre-trial hearing unless settled out of court.
