Loved Ones Instruct Lawyers To Investigate Whether Sandblaster Exposed To Silica At Work

The family of a former power station sandblaster are appealing for help to determine whether exposure to brick dust at work caused the lung cancer that claimed his life.

Father-of three and grandfather-of-two Brian Neil worked at Didcot Power Station in the 1960s. 

Following his death aged 74, his family instructed specialist industrial disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether his illness was caused by exposure to silica - tiny particles often found in the dust of rocks, clay and sand.

Power station worker's family and lawyers in silica investigation

Brian’s daughter Karen Rumsey and her legal team are now appealing for information from Brian’s former colleagues about the conditions he faced while at the power station.

Expert Opinion

“Brian’s death continues to have a profound effect on his family who have many unanswered questions as to what caused his illness.

“Through our work we see the devastating consequences exposure to silica can have on people. We are now investigating whether Brian was exposed during his career at Didcot Power Station.

“Nothing can make up for their loss but we are determined to provide Brian’s family with the answers they deserve. Therefore any information about the working conditions Brian faced could prove vital in providing Karen and the rest of the family with some form of closure.” Alex Shorey - Senior Associate Solicitor

Brian, who lived in Northampton, started working at Didcot Power Station in his early 20s. 

Known as Bris to many people, he also played in goal for a number of amateur football teams including Silverstone FC. 

Brian was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2016. He died in October 2018.

Silica appeal issued by family

Karen said: “When he was younger Dad was such a fit and active person. However, that changed following his diagnosis.

“His health rapidly deteriorated after he was diagnosed with cancer. Seeing him as the cancer took hold of him was terrible.

“It may be more than two years since Dad died but coming to terms with what happened remains difficult.  Having so many unanswered questions about what caused his illness makes his death harder to accept.

“We know nothing can bring Dad back but we want to at least honour his memory by finding out why he died. We would be so grateful to anyone who came forward with information about his career. Any tiny piece of detail could be vital in helping our family.” 

Anyone with information about working conditions Brian faced at Didcot Power Station should contact Alex Shorey at Irwin Mitchell on 0121 214 5493 or email alex.shorey@irwinmitchell.com

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting families affected by silica at our dedicated industrial disease section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.