The family of a power station worker who died from an incurable form of cancer are appealing for witnesses.

Ron Kirby died on March 4, 2024, from mesothelioma after his family believe he was exposed to asbestos when working for the Central Electricity Generating Board (CEGB).

He worked at a power station in Carmarthen Bay and then Trawsfynydd in the mid 1960s where he trained new recruits.

Ron’s family approached law firm Leigh Day to investigate his potential exposure to asbestos when working for CEGB power stations in Wales.

Andrew Stinchcombe, partner in the Leigh Day asbestos claims team, said: 

“Mesothelioma typically takes many decades to develop after exposure to asbestos dust, but its effects are terrible. It remains an incurable disease, and the UK has an awful legacy left by the prolific use of asbestos in the last century. 

“We would especially like to speak to anybody who knew Ron and worked with him at the power stations in Carmarthen Bay or Trawsfynydd in the 1960s.

“Any former work colleagues who can shed light on the work that he did and the areas where he specialised would be extremely helpful. Ron’s family would greatly appreciate any information that can be provided.” 

Following his retirement in 1987 and moving to Cornwall, Ron started becoming breathless in 2022 before continuing to decline until he was housebound with oxygen assistance at home.

Before his death, Ron was taken to Mount Edgcumbe Hospice in Cornwall to control pain in his chest and swelling of his legs.

He was discharged a couple of weeks later so that he could fulfil his wish to die at home.

Apart from working for the CEGB, Ron worked for numerous years as a coastguard and joined the DVLA’s Heavy Goods Vehicle Department.

To provide relevant information, get in touch with Andrew Stinchcombe at astinchcombe@leighday.co.uk.