A widow whose husband died from a form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure at work has won a six-figure payout.

The compensation was awarded to Stephen Glover's wife of 18 years, Christine, who lives in Borden near Sittingbourne, after his death from malignant mesothelioma.

Mr Glover worked as a pipe fitter’s mate for Henry Telfer Limited, later known as J. Lyons Food Products Limited, between 1968 and 1971.

During this time, while repairing boilers and pipework for the company based in East London, he was exposed to the airborne asbestos fibres which would cause the cancer which killed him.

In October 2018 he began to pursue a compensation claim, but just two days before the first planned court hearing in April 2019, the 67-year-old died. A subsequent inquest found his death was due to the industrial disease, malignant mesothelioma.

His former employer then conceded liability and made 72-year-old Mrs Glover an interim payment. Then, only days before the final hearing was due to take place, they made a six-figure offer of settlement.

She said: "Stephen was deeply loved by myself and all his family, including his 12 grandchildren.

I hope that the settlement brings closure for Christine

"We're lucky to have enjoyed so many treasured moments with him over the years. Whilst the money doesn't even begin to make up for our loss, I'm relieved that the case has ended and that we can try to move forwards."

The agreed settlement included the compensation Mr Glover would have received had he survived, compensation for his widow for having to care for him as his health deteriorated and for her loss of income as a result of his death.

Isobel Lovett, a partner at Hodge Jones & Allen who represented the Glovers, said: "Whilst this case was incredibly difficult for Christine due to Stephen's passing, I’m glad that we were able to secure for her, the compensation that she and her husband fought for and deserved.

"I hope that the settlement brings closure for Christine and gives her security in the next phase of her life."

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