A SOUTHAMPTON man died following a long career of being exposed to asbestos, an inquest heard.

Ernest Chandler, of Lawford Way in Totton, developed malignant mesothelioma after working as a general labourer and a "chippy” throughout Hampshire.

In a statement sent to his solicitors, after the then 70-year-old was diagnosed in March of this year, he said that he had worked for numerous companies from 1961 to the late 70s, cutting and fixing asbestos.

Mr Chandler, who left a children’s home in Headbourne Worthy in 1959 to begin work, recalled repairing fascias at houses in Stanmore and Winnall in Winchester, the King Alfred Training Centre, maisonettes in Marchwood, Fawley Power Station as well as Shirley Towers flats, where he cut and fitted asbestos sheets in airing cupboards.

A verdict of death due to industrial disease was recorded.