AN inquest into the death of a 85-year-old Colne man confirmed that he died as a result of industrial disease.

Coroner Richard Taylor read out a statement that Thomas Waters, of Boulsworth Grove made before passing away on April 19.

It confirmed he had worked extensively among asbestos and “could not help but breathe it in”.

He worked for Thomas Pickup’s, Fenners, Lesley Edmondons, Joe Drivers and Rolls Royce.

Mr Waters had malignant mesothelioma.