Asbestos powder linked to death

12:56pm Friday 31st August 2007

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A RETIRED electrician's mate died of lung cancer after working with cables covered in asbestos powder for decades, an inquest was told.

Leslie Francis Ford, 84, of Lyndhurst Avenue, Knuzden, had been diagnosed with mesothemiola, a lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, in July 2006, and had undergone fluid drainage from his lungs and radiotherapy.

His condition deteriorated and his weight fell after a fall, and he died in the East Lancashire Hospice on June 18.

Mr Ford had worked for the Central Electric Generating Board at power stations in Blackburn, Huncoat, and Fiddlers Ferry, between 1957 and 1986.

His daily duties involved handling power cables that had once been coated in a protective layer of asbestos, and left asbestos powder in the air.

Before he died he successfully pursued a claim for suffering with the industrial disease, the hearing was told.

Speaking at Blackburn Coroner's Court, Coroner Michael Singleton said: "It is straightforward, albeit very distressing, that I understand Mr Ford died of the industrial disease mesothemiola of the plura.

"I understand what a terrible disease it is."