Asbestos-related cancer victim 'was seeking compensation'

A man who died as a result of asbestos-related cancer was seeking compensation, his son has revealed.

Earlier this year, Michael Hallam lost his battle with the condition at the age of 72.

After he began suffering from symptoms in April 2009 he launched legal action against the Granville Colliery.

He alleged that the duties he carried out working with boilers for the firm were dirty and he never wore a mask. When the heating devices were raked out, asbestos broke up, he noted.

Commenting on his father's actions, Andrew Hallam said: "I was aware he was making a claim before he died and he told us many stories about his life down the pits."

Meanwhile, Dr Ivan Robinson, who carried out a post mortem examination of Mr Hallam's body, recorded a verdict of industrial disease.

Prior to developing mesothelioma, Mr Hallam was described as very active and he enjoyed DIY and gardening.

As well as this form of cancer, asbestos can lead to other medical conditions, including pleural plaques and asbestosis.