Thomas Newlands died after exposure to deadly asbestos

Published: 25 March, 2010
by JOSIE HINTON

A RETIRED carpenter who spent years renovating old farmhouses died as a result of exposure to asbestos, an inquest has heard.

St Pancras Coroner’s Court was told on Thursday that Thomas Newlands, of Ingestre Road, Kentish Town, developed serious health problems after being exposed to the killer dust. He worked in old asbestos-ridden properties, but wore no protective clothing.

His daughter Margaret Foreman told the inquest: “When he started work they didn’t know what asbestos was, or that it was dangerous, so no precautions were taken.”

When Mr Newlands died on December 7 last year at the Whittington Hospital, the 81-year-old was suffering complex lung problems including asbestosis, chronic bronchitis and emphysema. He was also virtually blind, suffered poor mobility and was housebound. 

He had consulted a lawyer and was awaiting compensation at the time of his death, the court heard.

Coroner Andrew Reid recorded a verdict of death by industrial disease.

Mr Newlands’ wife Agnes said she was “relieved” by the verdict. She added: “It is a horrible way to die, but I’m glad that we know that is what killed him. 

“He was a man who enjoyed life and he was a wonderful husband.”