A PENSIONER died in hospital of lung disease after exposure to asbestos, an inquest has heard.

James O’Brien, 84, of Holland-on-Sea, died at Colchester Hospital on April 28.

An inquest was opened and adjourned at Chelmsford Coroner’s Court on Thursday.

Coroner’s officer Howard Goddard said: “On April 21 he was admitted to Colchester Hospital with shortness of breath He was found to have a lung mass.

“It was thought to be lung cancer and he sadly died on April 28. His family have reported concerns over his care to PALS.

“A post mortem was carried out which found the cause of death to be metastatic carcinoma and asbestos exposure.”

A full inquest will take place on December 4.