ASBESTOS in Southampton docks caused a ship worker to develop a painful cancer in later life.

Ronald Horn, 84, died at home in Shirley, Southampton, from mesothelioma in November 1 after being exposed to the harmful dust while working in the port from 1957 to 1986.

Recording a verdict of death by industrial disease, Southampton Coroner Keith Wiseman said: “Unfortunately it is a familiar scenario in this court because so many dock workers have got it over the years.”