A HAMPSHIRE man died of asbestos exposure, an inquest heard.

Retired carpenter Stephen Goodfellow, of Catherine Gardens, Southampton, was receiving ongoing care for malignant mesothelioma, Winchester Coroner’s Court heard.

The court heard that the 67-year-old died at Countess Mountbatten House on February 10 this year after being transferred from Southampton General Hospital.

Mr Goodfellow worked as a joiner from 1966 to 1970 and used asbestos sheets to make doors for schools and offices. The court also heard that from 1982 to 1987 he worked refurbishing railway carriages, which involved the removal of asbestos.

In a statement by Mr Goodfellow read in court, he said: “ I was a fit and healthy individual. It has come as a shock to know that I have an asbestos-related disease.”

Central Hampshire coroner Grahame Short recorded a conclusion of death from industrial disease.