The death of an east Suffolk man at the age of 66 has been linked to asbestos, an inquest has heard.

On Friday, the inquest for Michael Knights, from Framlingham, was opened at Suffolk Coroners’ Court in Ipswich.

The court heard that Mr Knights was taken to hospital on November 15 last year after he began experiencing shortness of breath.

Mr Knights had previously been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, a cancer of mesothelial tissue which is associated with exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals which are resistant to heat and corrosion.

Because of these desirable properties, asbestos was historically used in commercial products such as insulation, fireproofing materials and wallboard materials.

Asbestos is dangerous because when disturbed, it releases tiny fibres into the air which become trapped in the lungs. The use of asbestos is now banned.

Mr Knights had worked as a heating and plumbing engineer during his working life, which is when he is believed to have been exposed to asbestos.

He died on December 3, 2023.

The inquest will be resumed at a later date.