EXPOSURE to deadly asbestos spores led to the death of a former Nestl factory worker.

Robert Purnell, 88, died at Bradford on Avon hospital on May 18 after developing a non-curable form of cancer.

Mr Purnell was exposed to asbestos while working at the Staverton factory from 1929 to 1979.

During his employment he repaired pipes which were coated with material containing the potentially lethal spores.

Deputy Wiltshire coroner William Bache, sitting at Chippenham Magistrates' Court on Wednesday, said the evidence Mr Purnell was exposed to asbestos during his working life was "little short of overwhelming".

Son Robert Purnell, of Avon Road, Melksham, said in a statement his father was a welder, production worker and later a maintenance worker at the Staverton factory.

The cancer took hold in 2001 leading to respiratory problems and a rapid decline in health.

Fellow employee Alfred Smith said pipes at the factory were lagged with material containing a white, powdery substance.

A factory survey carried out by a Brunel University expert in 1988 found asbestos in panels, roof linings and pipes.

Mr Bache said: "Evidence that Mr Purnell's exposure to asbestos, which I find did occur during his work with Nestls, led ultimately to his death."

Verdict: Industrial disease.