DERBYSHIRE is considered a hotspot for cases of mesothelioma because of its history of heavy engineering.

At least 300 people in the county have died from it in the past 30 years.

It is thought that there are about 75 more currently suffering from it but exact figures are unknown.

More cases are expected to emerge, with experts predicting a surge in the next five to 10 years.

This is because it can take up to 40 years for symptoms of asbestos-related diseases to show. The illnesses are caused by inhaling dust from asbestos, which was commonly used in the construction industry until the 1970s.

Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lining of the chest and lungs.

It is usually well-developed by the time sufferers experience symptoms, such as feeling breathless, and from this point their health rapidly deteriorates.

It is difficult to diagnose early.

Treatments that prolong a sufferer's life include surgery to remove the cancer, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

The other main asbestos-related diseases are lung cancer, asbestosis – which is the scarring of lung tissue – and pleural disease.

Pleural disease includes calcification and fluid on the lungs.

Asbestos became increasingly popular among manufacturers and builders in the late 19th century because it resists heat, electricity and chemical damage.