Family of former Castleford civil servant seek answers over devastating asbestos-cancer death

Angela Boothroyd, who spent nearly 30 years working for the Department of Work and Pensions in various locations, died only four months after being diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma.

A rare and aggressive cancer of the lining of the abdomen, peritoneal mesothelioma is usually linked to asbestos exposure, often decades previously.

Following the 69-year-old’s death, Angela’s husband Philip and son Nicholas, instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate where she was exposed to asbestos.

Angela’s family and their legal team are now appealing to anyone with information about the working conditions Angela faced during her time as a benefits worker.

They are particularly keen to hear from anyone with information from the late 1970s through to the 1990s about the Castleford and Rotherham offices.

Dominic Riley, the expert asbestos‑related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell, said: “While many may associate asbestos with heavy industry its use was much more widespread including in public buildings and workplaces.

“While nothing can make up for what they’re going through we’re determined to provide Angela’s family with the answers they deserve.”

“We know Angela spent her early career in Castleford and a period working in Rotherham.

"We’re particularly keen to hear from anyone who remembers maintenance, refurbishment or contractor works taking place while staff remained at their desks.”

Phillip said: “We can’t change what’s happened, but we want answers. If anyone with information can come forward it would mean so much to our family.

A DWP spokesperson said: “We are sorry to hear of the loss of Angela Boothroyd, and will consider any correspondence sent to us by the family carefully “

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dominic Riley at Irwin Mitchell on 0113 394 6829, email [email protected] or call 07789 745409.