In the years before his death Mr Terance Boyd became increasingly unwell, and he sadly passed away in August 2025, aged 76.

However, it wasn’t until after he died that it was confirmed that he had developed asbestosis - a serious lung disease caused by exposure to asbestos dust and fibres which occurred often many decades before symptoms appear.

Shocked to learn of his diagnosis, his family are now appealing for information about the working conditions he experienced and are asking former colleagues, contractors, tradespeople and anyone else who may be able to assist to come forward.

Thompsons Solicitors, which is representing the family, is coordinating the appeal.

During the 1960s, Mr Boyd was employed as an apprentice fitter at Cammell Laird in Birkenhead. His family say his work involved boiler rooms and other industrial areas where asbestos-containing materials were present.

His widow, Veronica, from Birkenhead, says that he would often return home from work covered in white and grey dust.  

Mr Boyd also served in the Merchant Navy during the early 1970s, working as an engineer aboard a number of ships, including: M.V. Otaio, Calchas, M.S. Freetown, M.V. Tabor, M.V. Karnak, Booker Viking and the M.V. Aroadian.

His family would like to hear from anyone who served alongside him or who can provide information about conditions within engine rooms and maintenance areas on board these vessels.

They are also looking for information relating to Mr Boyd's employment with Lorne Stewart PLC in the 2000’s and 2010’s, during which he was based at the Royal Liverpool Hospital where his family say he worked around boilers, pipework and ceiling voids.

As well as his time at Tate & Lyle LTD and Pura LTD - also known as Merseyside Foods - during the late 1970s and early 1980s, when he worked in older buildings.

Paula Wrigley, an asbestos specialist at Thompsons Solicitors’ Liverpool office, said: "Mr Boyd worked in engineering and industrial roles throughout his career, and we want to hear from anyone who remembers conditions at the sites or aboard the vessels where he worked.

"Asbestosis is caused by exposure to asbestos dust and fibres, often decades before symptoms develop. Buildings constructed before asbestos was banned frequently contained asbestos materials, and exposure could occur during maintenance, refurbishment and engineering work.

"We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who worked with Mr Boyd or can provide information about boiler rooms, engine rooms, pipe lagging, maintenance work or asbestos materials at these locations.

"Even the smallest recollection could prove important and help build a clearer picture of the conditions in which he worked."

Anyone who may be able to assist is asked to contact Paula Wrigley at Thompsons Solicitors on 0151 224 1608 or by email at PaulaWrigley@thompsons.law