Dad's Terminal Cancer Diagnosis: Asbestos Scandal at Barclays Centre Sparks Investigation

A previous computer operator thinks his severe terminal cancer is due to his exposure to asbestos when he was employed at the Barclays Bank data center.

Mervyn Jessop from Wilmslow has been diagnosed with stage four mesothelioma, an incurable type of lung cancer linked to asbestos exposure, which can occur many years earlier. After receiving this news, the 72-year-old man was informed that he likely has about 12 months left to live.

He asked specialists in asbestos-linked diseases from Irwin Mitchell law firm to look into whether his sickness might be connected to his time working. Mervyn is now collaborating with his legal advisors as they appeal for former colleagues to step forward with relevant details.

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The legal team is eager to speak with individuals who collaborated with Mervyn at the Barclays Bank Gloucester Data Centre located in Barnwood close to Gloucester. Mervyn, aged 63 and husband of Karen, dedicated 12 years of his career to this facility specifically designed for housing the company’s computer infrastructure.

He stated: "Over multiple months, I kept attending appointments and undergoing hospital tests. While I was aware that the medical professionals were checking whether I had lung cancer, nothing could have gotten me ready for receiving my diagnosis."

I had come across mesothelioma in the news before, knowing it was an incurable disease. When I asked my physician about my prognosis, they informed me that I likely had around one year left to live.

Therefore, I was eager to investigate and begin the treatment promptly in an effort to provide myself with the greatest opportunity to spend as much time with my family as possible.

At the moment, I run out of breath if I push myself too hard. Walking on level surfaces is fine for me, but I am unable to handle any strenuous chores at home or in the garden like before. Sadly, I recently quit my membership at the golf club since I'm no longer able to participate because climbing slopes leaves me short of breath.

When I gaze ahead, I feel quite sorrowful. We had numerous aspirations for our golden years, and it seems as though they've all been snatched away.

I am concerned about my future and also worried about what might happen to Karen and our family.

Mervyn started his career at Barclays in 1973. He began working in London but relocated to Barnwood in 1978 after the opening of the Gloucester Data Centre. This specially designed site comprised three sections—A, B, and C—and accommodated the company’s growing computer infrastructure.

Mervyn, stationed in Block A, mentioned that the facility featured elevated flooring and drop ceilings. Running beneath and above these were substantial lengths of computer cables and various wirings.

When cables were threaded through the attic spaces, they disturbed the ceiling tiles and caused debris to fall from behind them. He believed this debris included asbestos. Consequently, dust spread throughout. During repair work, engineers often knocked loose these tiles as well.

Mervyn moved to Cheshire in 1990 and has resided in Wilmslow for the last 35 years. He took retirement from Barclays in 2004.

It is thought that the Gloucester Data Centre was refurbished in 2001, during which time asbestos might have been taken out of the structure and encapsulation measures implemented to stop any asbestos particles from escaping.

After he and Karen contracted Covid at the start of 2024, Mervyn visited his GP concerned that his cough was not clearing. He was referred for tests and diagnosed with mesothelioma in October.

Following his diagnosis, Mervyn has participated in a clinical trial involving both chemotherapy and immunotherapy—a type of treatment designed to help the immune system identify and combat cancer cells—with the aim of extending his lifespan.

He commented, "Looking back, my days in Barnwood hold dear memories for me. Those years were filled with wonderful experiences, and I formed many lasting friendships. A significant portion of my work took place beyond regular business hours, particularly when we conducted most of the necessary computer upkeep."

At that time, computers were still very young. They were massive, typically taking up whole rooms, covered in countless buttons, switches, and wires. Therefore, when maintenance or technical tasks needed to be done, it was quite a substantial undertaking, usually requiring multiple individuals.

The task typically involved entering spaces located above the suspended ceilings and beneath the floors, regions which were frequently covered in dust. Therefore, meticulous attention was necessary during cleanup to maintain cleanliness and ensure they remained free of dust.

I understand that I cannot reverse what has occurred, but at the very minimum, I believe I am entitled to explanations about how I came into contact with asbestos. It would be incredibly meaningful for both myself and my family if individuals possessing relevant information could step forward.

Helen Tomlin, the specialist asbestos-related illness lawyer at Irwin Mitchell who represents Mervyn, stated: "Mervyn's diagnosis serves as another stark reminder of the destructive effects of asbestos and how the consequences of exposure frequently manifest many years afterward."

Mervyn and his loved ones continue to be deeply affected by his diagnosis and its potential implications for their future. Although asbestos exposure is frequently linked to heavy industries, its usage was far more extensive.

If anybody who recalls working alongside Mervyn, or possesses any details regarding the Gloucester Data Centre, would step forward, this could be crucial for giving Mervyn and his family the explanations they are entitled to.

Those who have any details should get in touch with Irwin Mitchell.