The Board's enquiries suggest that the cause of his contracting mesothelioma was his close contact with asbestos curtains and borders - commonly used to provide heat separation between lanterns and scenery in British theatres during the fifties, sixties and early seventies. "As an assistant electrician in various London theatres at that time, I remember regularly pushing my head past these asbestos borders to get close to the lanterns to change bulbs," explains Rory. "The borders were obviously a risk, as were the asbestos-based lantern insulation packing and cables in use then."
If this connection is proved and there are further cases among those who were working in UK theatre during this period, there may be a case for it being recognized as an industrial injury with consequent entitlement to Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit or other compensation.
Although extremely ill, Rory continues to work on lighting plans for revivals of two recent opera productions, which are due to be performed in the UK later in the year. All enquiries relating to this should be addressed to John Simpson at White Light Group Ltd. 20, Merton Industrial Park, Jubilee Way, London SW19 3WL.
(Ruth Rossington)
