The family of a Mountain Ash woman who died from an asbestos disease is appealing for information from colleagues who may have worked with her at the A.B. Metal factory in Rhondda Cynon Taf.

Brenda Jones died from the asbestos-related disease mesothelioma in February 2019, which her family believe was contracted as a result of her work at the former factory in Abercynon.

Brenda worked at the factory between 1956 and 1964, then again from 1967 to 1971 following the birth of her first child. During this time, the factory changed its name to A.B. Electronic Components Ltd and later T.T. Electronic Group. She worked on a production line for TV switches, many of which were made of Bakelite, a synthetic plastic that would often have traces of asbestos.

Her family also has concerns that she may have inhaled asbestos fibres from other manufacturing processes at the factory, which would cause asbestos dust to spread throughout the air.

Brenda Jones

Brenda’s family turned to specialist asbestos-related disease team at Thompsons Solicitors and is now appealing for information from anyone who worked at the A.B. Metal factory during the 1950s, 1960s or 1970s.

Her son, Paul, spoke of the “horror” of seeing his mum’s health deteriorate as a result of an avoidable illness.

He said: “We didn’t know much about asbestos before my mum became ill. Soon enough, we learnt of the thousands of families whose lives are ruined by asbestos each and every year. It’s truly shocking.

“Seeing mum’s health get rapidly worse until her death was horrible for us all. We will never know how soon she was taken away from us if it wasn’t for this disease, but we are desperate to understand the reasons for her death. We’re hoping her colleagues can shed light on the working conditions they were exposed to.”

Amanda Jones, specialist asbestos solicitor, said: “A.B Metals was a huge employer within the Rhondda Cynon Taf area during the time that Brenda worked for them, so we are hopeful that someone will remember working alongside her.

“Anyone who does remember her, or worked at the same factory during the same time and recalls use of asbestos, may be able to add vital information to the family’s case and we would be grateful to hear from them.”

Anyone who believes they may be able to assist should contact Amanda Jones at Thompsons Solicitors on 02920 445345, or alternatively by email on amandajones@thompsons.law.co.uk.