WORKING with harmful materials contributed to the death of a former merchant navy seaman, an inquest has concluded.

Michael Fenton died at a hospice in Winsford, after moving there from his Northwich home for ‘symptom management’.

The 78-year-old, who was born in the Liverpool area, worked with asbestos for parts of his working life.

A coroner concluded the industry played a part in him contracting the disease.

His inquest took place on Wednesday at Warrington Coroner’s Court on Wednesday, sitting at St James’ Business Centre off Wilderspool Causeway.

The court heard how Mr Fenton, of Winnington, died on June 1 after moving to St Luke’s Hospice in Winsford.

He had a history of occupational exposure to asbestos and was suffering from shortness of breath after developing lung fibrosis.

Mr Fenton previously worked at Cammell Laird shipyard in Birkenhead, as well as in the merchant navy, and he described his working conditions as ‘very dusty’ at times.

His role involved cutting material containing asbestos with his hands and pulling the material away to get better access.

A report was obtained by a physician who confirmed the view that Mr Fenton’s malignancy was asbestos-related.

He was admitted to the hospice for management of symptoms and shortness of breath on May 9.

The court heard how he was ‘a very poorly man at that stage’, and on May 26 he had a stay at Royal Stoke University Hospital, before returning to St Luke’s.

A cause of death offered by a doctor confirmed a case of chest infection due to lung fibrosis.

Victoria Davies, area coroner for Cheshire, said: “I am sufficiently satisfied I have evidence to conclude this inquest today, and I am satisfied I have evidence to suggest that asbestosis diagnosis is appropriate.”

She added: “My conclusion is one of industrial disease,” before offering her sincere condolences to his family.