Cancer Man feels asbestos has caused illness

A FORMER computer operator believes his devastating terminal cancer stems from his exposure to asbestos while working at Barclays Bank data centre in Gloucestershire.

- Molly SEAMAN

Mervyn Jessop has stage four mesothelioma, a terminal form of lung cancer associated with exposure to the hazardous material, often decades previously.

Following his diagnosis, the 72-year-old was told he had around 12 months to live.

He instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether his illness could be linked to his career.

Mervyn has now joined with his legal team in appealing to his ex-workmates to come forward with information.

The legal team is keen to hear from anyone who worked with Mervyn at Barclays Bank's Gloucester Data Centre in Barnwood, near Gloucester.

Mervyn, who is married to Karen, 63, spent 12 years at the site which was custom built to house the firm's computer systems.

He said: “For several months I was attending appointments and going for hospital tests.

“I knew that the doctors were looking to see if I had lung cancer, but still nothing prepared me for my diagnosis.

“I'd heard of mesothelioma on the news, and I knew it was a terminal condition.

“I remember asking the doctor how long I had left and being told I had around 12 months’ life expectancy.

“Therefore, I was keen to explore and start treatment as quickly as possible to try and give myself the best chance of having as much time with my family as possible.

“At present I get breathless if I try and do too much.