Widow of former London Authority dockyard worker appeals for information following his asbestos-related death

Raymond (also known as Ray) was born in Tilbury, East London and lived in the area all his life. He worked for the Port of London Authority at Tilbury Docks from 1961 until 1988 as a sheeter, working on roof coverings and related fittings.  

In December 2023, Raymond died following a series of inconclusive tests and investigations into his ill-health. It was only discovered after Raymond died, that the cause was mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer. The diagnosis was made following a post-mortem examination.

Carrol Lewis, Raymond’s wife, recalls that Raymond worked sawing asbestos sheets, which were then used for the roofs of sheds and buildings around Tilbury docks. She believes his work was connected with the asbestos related disease that caused Raymond’s death.  

Claire Spearpoint, personal injury senior associate solicitor, is looking for witness evidence to support the presence of asbestos roofs on buildings in dockyards, and/or any former colleagues of Ray’s who recall either what he did or worked alongside him.  

Senior associate solicitor Claire Spearpoint said:  

“Raymond told his family how he sawed asbestos sheets to size for roofs of buildings at Tilbury Docks whilst working for the Port of London Authority (PLA). He passed before his diagnosis was confirmed and any evidence could be taken, and so we would like to speak to anyone who worked for the PLA at Tilbury between 1961 and 1988.”

If you have any information that may help the appeal, please call 020 7650 1200 and ask to speak to Claire Spearpoint or email cspearpoint@leighday.co.uk