A FORMER brewery worker, who was exposed to asbestos for 20 years, died of an industrial disease.

Kenneth Arthur was admitted to Queen's Hospital, Burton, complaining of breathing problems on May 28 last year.

The 73-year-old underwent a scan, which revealed he was suffering from mesothelioma – a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.

Mr Arthur, of Bridge Court Nursing Home, in Ashby Road, Burton, died three days later.

A postmortem examination on his body revealed the cause of death to be pneumonia and respiratory failure due to exposure to the substance.

South Staffordshire Coroner's Court, at Burton Town Hall, heard Mr Arthur worked at Truman's Brewery in the town for more than 20 years.

It was during his time working there he became exposed to asbestos.

Andrew Haigh, coroner for South Staffordshire, recorded a verdict of death by industrial disease.

He said: "Mesothelioma is a horrible condition nearly always linked to exposure to asbestos.

"Mr Arthur spent more than 20 years working in a brewery.

"Although we do not have much detail about what he did there but I am satisfied beyond reasonable doubt this is where he became exposed."