AN Alresford man died of an industrial disease, an inquest heard.

John Barton, of Orchard Close, worked in various construction jobs throughout the 1960s, 70s and 80s, often in contact with asbestos.

He died at home on February 8 of mesothelioma, which he had suffered from for some time.

In a statement compiled before his death, he said that he received no advice from his employer about the dangers of the material, nor was he given protective clothing.

Assistant coroner for central Hampshire Sarah Whitby ruled a verdict of industrial disease due to exposure to asbestos.