Last Updated on April 11, 2025 by tanya

Orient Express Engineer Exposed To Asbestos Has Won His Claim

 

Family Call for More Safety For Restoration Projects

 

An Orient Express engineer exposed to asbestos has won his claim. The former railway engineer was exposed to asbestos while restoring iconic vintage trains. When Malcolm Gelsthorpe was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a type of cancer, he started his claim. But unfortunately, he passed away in early March 2025 aged 68.

However, his family said the case had not only secured justice for his suffering, but also sends a strong message about the need for protection against asbestos. It particularly highlights the risk of asbestos exposure during restoration and repair projects.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease while working, First Personal Injury may be able to help. We work with lawyers who operate on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis

 

Family Call For Stronger Asbestos Protection Measures

A skilled electrician from Nottinghamshire, Malcolm Gelsthorpe spent decades of his life to the restoration of luxury trains such as the Orient Express. Employed by specialist restoration companies from 1979 until 2023, Mr. Gelsthorpe worked on refurbishing vintage carriages.

This type of work can lead to asbestos being disturbed during renovation or repair. The asbestos fibres can become airborne and inhaled, leading to long-term health issues

A court has ruled in his favour, recognising he had been exposed to asbestos dust early in his career. His family said Mr Gelsthorpe would have wanted ‘something positive to come from such a terrible situation’. Further, they called for health and safety measures in the workplace to be prioritised where asbestos remains a risk.

 

Risks of Asbestos Exposure

Although asbestos was banned in 1999, the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) reports that around 5,000 people still die each year from asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos remains present in many structures built prior to 2000. This may include historic buildings, schools, and – as in Mr. Gelsthorpe’s case – vintage transportation.

If you or someone you know has worked with asbestos, here are red flags which may indicate the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases

Mesothelioma

A cancer often affecting the lungs or abdomen:

 

• Severe chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue and weight loss
• Fluid around the lungs)
• Abdominal pain (if peritoneal)

Asbestosis

A chronic lung condition resulting in lung scarring:

 

• Persistent dry cough
• Shortness of breath
• Chest discomfort
• Finger clubbing
• Crackling sounds in lungs during breathing

Pleural Disease

This illness affects the lining of the lungs:

 

• Chest pain
• Reduced lung capacity
• Recurring fluid build-up

Lung Cancer

Asbestos significantly increases the risk of lung cancer:

 

• Long-standing or chronic cough
• Coughing up blood
• Recurrent respiratory infections
• Unexplained fatigue and weight loss

 

How to Make an Asbestos Compensation Claim

 

If you’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, or pleural thickening, you may be entitled to claim compensation. Typically, there’s a three-year limit from the date of diagnosis or when you first became aware your illness was linked to asbestos.

In the case of a loved one’s passing, the family has three years from the date of death to initiate a claim.

To build a strong case, you’ll need:

 

• Medical diagnosis and reports
• Employment and work history
• Details of exposure to asbestos
• Witness statements and expenses incurred

Get Expert Legal Support – No Win, No Fee

 

At First Personal Injury, we work alongside experienced solicitors who specialise in asbestos compensation claims on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or are seeking justice on behalf of a loved one, we’re here to help.

We partner with expert lawyers who work on a ‘No Win, No Fee’ basis. Contact our team today at 0333 358 2345 or get in touch online for a free, no-obligation consultation to find out if you have a potential claim.