Peter Loveridge, a 75-year-old husband and father from Swansea, West Glamorgan, first began experiencing breathlessness in 2020 and was referred to a consultant for further investigation.  

While silicosis — a serious and progressive lung condition caused by long-term inhalation of respirable crystalline silica dust — was discussed, the diagnosis was only formally confirmed after his death in February 2023. 

Mr Loveridge worked in the tiling industry for most of his life, employed by companies including Hawkins & Homes Ltd, Griffith Davies & Co Ltd, J & P Zammit, Pressed Steel & Fisher Ltd, South Wales Transport Co Ltd, British Leyland (UK) Ltd, and most notably J Taylor & Son – later known as Taylor Tiles Holdings Ltd and subsequently TT Specialist Fixing Ltd.  

Speaking to his family before his death, he described how he would regularly cut, grind, and mix tiles and cement-based products – all of which release hazardous silica dust – leaving him frequently exposed. 

Now, in an effort to determine whether more should have been done to protect him, they have since instructed industrial disease specialists at JM Parsons part of Thompsons LLP to investigate the circumstances of his exposure, and are appealing for witnesses to assist with their enquiries.  

They are keen to hear from anyone who worked alongside Peter at any point and are particularly interested in speaking to those who worked with Mr Loveridge at Taylor Tiles, also known as TT Specialist Fixing Ltd, in Swansea, where he spent over 30 years between the 1970s and early 2000s. 

To support these investigations, the legal team, led by Kirsty Lambourne who is based in the Llanelli office, would like to speak to anyone who worked with Mr Loveridge or held a similar role during the 1970s, 1980s and beyond. 

Commenting on the appeal, Peter’s family said they are determined to uncover the circumstances of his working life and secure justice in his memory. 

His daughter, Caryn, said: “Losing Dad has been incredibly hard, and what makes it worse is knowing his illness might have been prevented. He was so proud of his work – when we walked around Swansea, he would point to buildings and say, ‘I tiled that.’ He loved his job and this city. 

“But he also told us how unsafe it could be. He remembered times when a tent would be put up to protect others from the dust, yet all he was given was a hanky to cover his mouth. It’s devastating to think that more wasn’t done to protect him. 

“Before he died, Dad wanted answers about his exposure and why proper safeguards weren’t in place. We’re determined to carry on that fight on his behalf.” 

The legal team is especially keen to hear from anyone who worked in the tiling and fixing departments of Taylor Tiles Holdings Ltd, also known as TT Specialist Fixing Ltd, or at any associated sites during Mr Loveridge’s employment. 

Kirsty Lambourne, senior solicitor, said: “Silicosis is a preventable disease, yet we are seeing more and more workers left with life-changing and often fatal health problems due to exposure that should have been avoided. Despite its growing prevalence, it remains a relatively unknown condition. 

“Understandably, this is a very difficult time for Peter’s family, who are still grieving his loss while also trying to understand more about what caused his illness.  

“We are now looking to speak to anyone who worked with Peter or at the company during that time, particularly those with knowledge of the products used or the systems of work in place.” 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Kirsty Lambourne at JM Parsons on 01554 779940, or via email at KirstyLambourne@thompsons.law