The Telegraph reported over the weekend on the story of AA patrolman Paul Feeney. Feeney, during seventeen years working without gloves for the breakdown service company, developed severe dermatitis which left open cracks amnd sores on his hands.

Later patrol vans were equipped with warm water for washing oils, petrol, greases and other irritants off hands.

In Mr Feeney's case, the condition had already sufficiently deteriorated to stop him working.

His solicitor said that the payment reflected loss of income and pension, and the fact that he would never be able to work as a mechanic again.