Safety errors led to death of scientist

A MINISTRY of Defence scientist killed during top secret testing of potential terrorist bombs died as a result of "inadequate" safety precautions, an inquest has heard.

Terry Jupp was part of a highly classified joint US-UK programme when a substance he had mixed spontaneously combusted, engulfing the 46-year-old father of two in "a fireball".

His family have had to wait eight years for his inquest to begin as a result of a "fruitless" criminal investigation and a series of delays.

Yesterday they spoke out about the alleged safety failings that killed a loving man who "saved the lives of many" through his secret work.

At the beginning of the inquest in Southend, which is expected to last four weeks, Coroner Dr Peter Dean complimented the Jupp family on the "tremendous determination and dignity" shown during a "long and difficult process".

Dr Dean explained to jurors that the family had to endure a five-year wait while the case went through the criminal courts and four postponements to the inquest.

Mr Jupp suffered up to 90 per cent burns after a blast at a testing station near Shoeburyness, Essex, on 14 August, 2002.

The inquest will resume today.