A LIFELONG plumber from Cam died from exposure to asbestos over a number of years, an inquest was told.

Peter Hamilton, 80, of Hollywell Road, Cam, had a history of occupational exposure to asbestos, Gloucestershire Coroner's Court heard on Tuesday, February 24.

Senior Coroner for Gloucestershire Katy Skerrett said: "He complained to his GP of shortness of breath and weight loss in November of 2012 and medical examinations revealed a large tumour consistent with malignant mesothelioma.

"Although he was a lifelong non-smoker he had worked in the plumbing and heating industry for various companies for a number of years.

"In October 2013 it was clear that the disease was progressing and on January 16, 2014, when seen by a specialist, Mr Hamilton declined a course of chemotherapy.

"He died at his home on June 22 last year.

"The cause of death was clearly malignant mesothelioma and as he had a significant history of exposure to asbestos in his occupation my conclusion is one of death from industrial disease."