Tributes have been paid to a Johnstone man who spent decades campaigning for support for nuclear test veterans.

Former soldier Ken McGinley, who witnessed five nuclear bomb tests during his military service in the late 1950s, passed away earlier this month at the age of 85.

Since 1983, he had campaigned for compensation and a full public inquiry into the treatment of test veterans.

Ken was the much-loved dad of Louise and the beloved husband of Alice to whom he had been married to for more than 64 years.

(Image: Newsquest)

Dr Eamonn O’Neill, who spent many months with Ken writing his book ‘No Risk Involved’ about his nuclear bomb trials, told the Gazette: “Ken McGinley was a unique man, soldier, and campaigner.

“It was an honour getting to know him when we worked together on his book.

“Successive UK governments underestimated his resolve to see the truth told about the British nuclear test programme, and its awful legacy on those who witnessed it.

“I will remember his sheer guts, formidable grasp of detail, and, perhaps above all, his gift of laughter.

“He inspired us all to the fight the good fight, no matter the odds or the cost.”

Ken’s funeral mass took place yesterday (Wednesday, June 26) at St Margaret’s R.C. Church in Johnstone.

The campaigner had served on Christmas Island, in the Indian Ocean, in 1958 as many of the tests took place.

His book, which was published in 1990, led to a landmark Channel 4 Documentary ‘The Truth of Christmas Island’ for its Dispatches series, which was subsequently BAFTA nominated.

Ken, who used to own a restaurant in Johnstone, also founded the British Nuclear Test Veterans’ Association (BNTVA) more than 40 years ago.

A statement on their social media page said: “It is with the greatest sadness to inform you about the passing of Ken McGinley, the founder of the British Nuclear Test Veteran Association in 1983.

“Our condolences go out to all his family and friends at this time.

“He will be sadly missed by all and we will remember him.”

Just over a year and a half ago, Ken revealed that he had diagnosed with lung and kidney cancer which he believed was linked to repeated exposure to the fall-out more than 60 years previously.

Speaking to the Gazette at the time, Ken who also founded the International Alliance of Atomic Veterans, looked back on the time he spoke to the US Senate.

“As a result, Ronald Reagan passed an Act to say he was setting up a no-fault compensation fund for nuclear veterans,” Ken explained during the interview in October 2022.

“We hoped the British government would do the same but that never happened.”

MSP George Adam tabled a motion at the Scottish Parliament last week, expressing sadness at Ken’s passing and remembering his lifelong campaign to bring widespread awareness to the health issues experienced by himself and other veterans also present at the tests.

It also noted Ken’s role in the establishment of the BNTVA and celebrated his legal victories.

Also paying tribute, Councillor Jacqueline Cameron, who represents Johnstone South & Elderslie, said: “An honour to attend the funeral service this morning of Ken McGinley, a larger than life character who told the most fascinating stories.

“He was on Christmas Island during five nuclear bomb tests and campaigned all his life for the veterans affected by health issues due to the effects of the nuclear testing.”

“He will be sorely missed and our thoughts and condolences are with his family,” she added.