Family of West Sussex cement worker who died from asbestos cancer ask former colleagues for help

Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer most often caused by exposure to asbestos. 

Records show John Richards worked for Associated Portland Cement Manufacturers, which later became Blue Circle Cement, as a cement worker and miller between 1976 and 1992 at the company’s Shoreham site. 

John's family recall he worked alongside cement kilns, which their legal team say often used asbestos at the time for thermal insulation. His family believe it is possible he may have been exposed to asbestos through this. 

John was first suspected of suffering from mesothelioma when he began experiencing chest pains for about 12 months. He deteriorated and died from the disease in March 2026, aged 83.  

From the time he started at the Shoreham cement works until his death, John lived in West Sussex and was a well-known member of the local community in Upper Beeding. John spent his time supporting Steyning Town FC, spending time with friends at his local pub, and enjoyed bike riding and crosswords.

Following his death, John’s family instructed Jess Pittman, a solicitor from the asbestos team at law firm Leigh Day to investigate his case. 

The family are now appealing for anyone who worked with John in Shoreham throughout the 1970s and 1980s to come forward with information about working practices and conditions in the factory. 

Leigh Day solicitor Jess Pittman, who represents John’s family, said: 

“We are hoping to speak to anyone who worked at Blue Circle Cement (formerly known as Associated Portland Cement Manufacturers) in the 1970s and 1980s, as they could help piece together how John was exposed to asbestos and developed this deadly disease. Any piece of information, however small, could help with this and would be hugely appreciated by John’s family.”

Anyone who has information can contact Jess Pittman by email on jpittman@leighday.co.uk or call 020 7650 1200.