The Phurnacite plant produced smokeless fuel

The Phurnacite smokeless fuel plant in Abercwmboi, near Mountain Ash, closed 13 years ago but ex-workers believe the area suffers from an unusually high rate of cancer.

Many are fighting to prove that the cancers and other illnesses like emphysema and bronchitis, were brought on because of the pollution at the plant.

Campaigners want to know if research recommended in a report six years ago, which found evidence that working in such a plant had had an effect on cancer levels, was ever carried out.

"We want to know if the recommendations for more research to be carried out over this issue were ever done," said Malcolm Cook, from the Phurnacite Justice Action Group.

"And if it hasn't been done, we want to know why not.

This is our quest for the truth about the coking industry Malcolm Cook

"We also want to know if there are any prescribed diseases that affect the coking industry."

In 1997, the old Mid Glamorgan Health Authority carried out an inquiry into the death rates of people who worked at the plant.

An expert, found that there was strong evidence to link employment in coal carbonisation with more than an expected incidence of cancer and recommended further studies should be carried out.

Mr Cook, who lives opposite the former plant, said people would be "bitterly disappointed" if it was revealed that no further research had been undertaken.

"So far, there has been no justice in this industry for the men who have died and their widows," he said.

"This is our quest for the truth about the coking industry."

Terrence Malpas, 68, who contracted cancer after working at the plant, feels 'disgusted' that people are still fighting for answers.

"It feels like they want to sweep the whole thing under the carpet," he said.

"I feel very angry about it all, it has been a very stressful time for me and my family."

The campaign group has enlisted the help of Cynon Valley MP, Ann Clwyd, and a meeting is expected to take place in January to discuss her findings.

Toxic waste

During its 50-year lifespan the plant, once dubbed the dirtiest in Europe, produced smokeless fuels aimed at improving the environment in cities.

Fine coal dust as well as other materials were used in the manufacturing process and its residue included phenols, which are linked to cancer, coal tars and cyanide.

The surrounding area was polluted with a sulphurous cocktail of fumes and the land and air was contaminated.

Around 200,000 of tonnes of toxic waste has been stored at the 58 hectare site since its closure in 1990.

But in October it was announced that the site would be cleared at a cost of �17m.