British Aerospace employee dies after asbestos exposure

A veteran who worked as an engineer for British Aerospace Airbus has died after being exposed to asbestos. Simon Button, of Cullompton, is said to have worked in a large hanger which contained asbestos lagged pipes.

In his later years, he became poorly and was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma - a cancer of the thin tissue (mesothelium) that lines the lung, chest wall, and abdomen. The major risk factor for mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.

The 78-year-old widower, who was born in Newbury, Berkshire, passed away at Culm Valley Care Centre, in Cullompton, on October 20. An inquest was recently opened into his death at Exeter Coroner's Court.

READ MORE: Exeter leisure centre overhaul finally reaches next stage

READ MORE: Live: People trapped after car crashes into Torbay Hospital building

Alison Longhorn, area coroner for Devon, said: "My Button spent a large proportion of his career in the forces before working as an engineer for British Aerospace Airbus. He worked in a large hanger which contained asbestos lagged pipes.

"There are no suspicious circumstances. The present medical cause of death is malignant mesothelioma."

The inquest was adjourned for a full hearing to be held at a later date.