A FORMER draughtsman who developed an asbestos-related cancer after working on parts for Barrow-built ships received a compensation settlement before his death.

Roy Fry developed mesothelioma having worked for Caston Barber Limited, which made fireproof doors for ships including the SS Oriana for Vickers.

Mr Fry, from Kendal, received a settlement from the employer's insurers from his time working there in the 1960s, his lawyers said.

The insurers for the company, which is no longer trading, were tracked down and presented with evidence of the case by law firm Leigh Day.

The insurers admitted liability when faced with evidence prepared by mesothelioma claims lawyer Kevin Johnson.

Leigh Day said Mr Fry died with the peace of mind of knowing that his case had been successfully settled.

Barrow has a higher death rate for mesothelioma than anywhere in the country.

According to Leigh Day, 300 people in the town have died from it since 1981.

Describing the legacy of asbestos in the area, the firm said: "Despite having a proud history of building and repairing ships, the industry has left a terrible legacy in the region.

"Vickers & Armstrong/Vickers Shipbuilding and Engineering Ltd were involved in the construction of military vessels and built some of the largest battleships in
the world.

"The shipyard at Barrow is the only site licensed to build nuclear-powered submarines which have been tested at the site since 1958.

"Asbestos was a cheap product known to be good for fire prevention and
insulation and was heavily used in the construction, refitting and repair of ships.

"Workers were exposed to asbestos lagging on the pipes, asbestos spray and other asbestos materials.

"They worked in cramped and dusty conditions with little access to fresh air.

"They were not given any training or information about the risks to their health when working with asbestos.

"Many workers have gone on to develop asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural thickening."

Earlier this year the wife of a former Barrow shipyard worker warned others to get a biopsy 'before it's too late'.

Ann Storey spoke out following the death of her husband at the age of 84.

Ken Storey started as an apprentice when he was just 16 years old at Vickers in 1956 and according to his wife was exposed to asbestos during a 37-year career as a caulker.