Flautist died of asbestos-related disease

Richard Taylor, 83, of Ferringham Lane, Ferring, died on August 11, at St Barnabas House Hospice, following a diagnosis of mesothelioma – a type of cancer commonly associated with exposure to asbestos – in 2013.

At an inquest into his death, at Centenary House, in Durrington, on Thursday, coroner Dr David Skipp heard that Mr Taylor had discussed how he may have come into contact with the toxic substance in previous years.

Two possibilities were working in the Chelsea Barracks, known to be ‘rife’ with asbestos, or from powder which came with Rawlplugs.

In recording a verdict of death by industrial disease, Dr Skipp said: “People exposed to asbestos many years ago show signs of mesothelioma 20 or 30 years later, which seems to have occurred within the history that we have here.

“I must convey my condolences to his wife.”