Dad's Tragic Belief: Asbestos Exposure at Gloucester Data Centre Linked to Terminal Cancer

A previous computer operator thinks he devastating terminal cancer arises from his contact with asbestos during his time at the Barclays Bank data centre in Gloucestershire. Mervyn Jessop has stage four mesothelioma , a severe type of lung cancer linked to contact with harmful substances, typically many years earlier.

After receiving his diagnosis, the 72-year-old was informed that he likely had about 12 months left to live. He then asked specialists in asbestos-related diseases at Irwin Mitchell to look into whether his condition could be pursued further through legal means. The illness might be connected to his profession. .

Mervyn has teamed up with his lawyers to appeal to former colleagues for information. They are eager to speak with anybody who collaborated with Mervyn at the Gloucester Data Centre of Barclays Bank located in Barnwood. near Gloucester.

The UK village has been nicknamed 'the new Cotswolds,' and this isn't sitting well with everybody.
A 12-year-old girl was sexually assaulted close to a school in the South West region.

Mervyn, who is married to Karen, aged 63, worked at the facility for 12 years. The place was specifically constructed to accommodate the company’s computer systems. He shared, "I went through numerous medical visits and examinations over several months. Although they suspected lung cancer during those checks, nothing could have readied me 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.

“Consequently, 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.”

Currently, I become short of breath when exerting myself too much. While I am able to walk on level surfaces, I'm unable to perform heavier chores at home or in the garden as I once did. Sadly, I recently stepped down from my golf club because playing has become impossible for me—especially climbing any slopes which leaves me out of breath.

When I gaze ahead, I experience great sorrow. There were numerous aspirations we harboured for our golden years, and now it feels as though they've vanished entirely. I am troubled about my own circumstances and deeply concerned regarding Karen and how our loved ones will fare.

Mervyn started his career at Barclays in 1973. He began his journey in London but relocated to Barnwood in 1978 following the opening of the Gloucester Data Centre. This specially designed site consisted of three sections — labeled A, B, and C — each catering to the growing needs of the company’s computer infrastructure.

Mervyn, stationed in Block A, mentioned that the facility featured elevated flooring and drop ceilings. These structural elements housed substantial lengths of computer cables and standard wiring both underneath and above them.

While pulling cables through the ceiling cavities, tiles above were disturbed along with debris containing potential asbestos particles, leading to airborne dust. During repair work, engineers inadvertently displaced these tiles as well.

In 1990, Mervyn moved to the North West, settling in Wilmslow, Cheshire. He took retirement from Barclays in 2004. The Gloucester Data Centre reportedly had refurbishments done in 2001 during which time asbestos might have been taken out of the structure, with additional sealing efforts implemented to stop any release of asbestos fibres into the environment.

Following their bout with COVID-19 early in 2024, Mervyn consulted his general practitioner because his persistent cough had not subsided. After being referred for further testing, he received a diagnosis of mesothelioma in October.

Following his diagnosis, Mervyn has participated in a clinical trial that combines chemotherapy with immunotherapy—a type of treatment designed to help the immune system identify and destroy cancer cells—in an effort to extend his lifespan.

He commented, "Looking back, my days in Barnwood hold cherished memories for me. It was a period marked by wonderful experiences where I formed many lasting friendships. A significant portion of my work took place beyond regular business hours, primarily during which the bulk of computer upkeep activities occurred."

At that time, computers were still in their early stages. They were massive machines, typically occupying whole rooms, equipped with countless buttons, switches, and wires. Therefore, performing any engineering tasks would be quite a substantial undertaking, 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 from 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. If individuals could step forward with relevant information, it would be immensely appreciated by both myself and my family.

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 its consequences frequently manifest many years after exposure."

Mervyn and his loved ones continue to be heartbroken over his diagnosis and the uncertainties it brings for their future. Although asbestos is frequently linked to industries like construction and manufacturing, its usage extended far beyond these sectors.

If anybody who recalls working alongside Mervyn, or possesses any information regarding the Gloucester Data Centre, would step forward, this could be crucial in offering both Mervyn and his family the explanations they rightfully deserve.

Anyone who has details should get in touch with Irwin Mitchell.