Norwich plasterer dies from asbestos-related cancer

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 18 Oct, 11:02 · Archive

Trevor Pickersgill, 79, a retired Norwich plasterer, died from asbestos-related malignant mesothelioma after decades working in construction.

Trevor Pickersgill, 79, of Greenborough Road, Norwich, died at home on October 5, just five days after being discharged from hospital. He had worked in construction since the age of 18, including stripping asbestos from walls, exposing him to the hazardous material that would eventually lead to his death.

An inquest at Norfolk Coroner's Court heard that Mr Pickersgill had been fit and active a year earlier, enjoying gardening, before developing increasingly severe breathing difficulties. His wife, Angeline Pickersgill, described how his health deteriorated as he struggled with breathlessness and pain in his side. His condition gradually worsened until he required hospital treatment and arrangements for carers to support him at home.

Dr Richard Hampshire gave evidence detailing Mr Pickersgill's medical history. He first presented with shortness of breath on exertion in May 2025. A CT scan followed in July 2025, and an ultrasound examination in September identified a right-sided pleural effusion, a build-up of fluid around the lung. He was subsequently admitted to hospital for a biopsy, and in February was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer strongly associated with previous exposure to asbestos. Mrs Pickersgill praised the care provided by hospital staff and his GP throughout his illness.

How it is being reported

• Norwich plasterer dies from asbestos-related cancer after decades in constructionNorwich plasterer Trevor Pickersgill, 79, died on October 5 from asbestos-related malignant mesothelioma after decades in construction, Norfolk Coroner's Court heard.Eastern Daily Press · 18 Oct, 10:30
• Norwich plasterer dies from asbestos-related cancer after decades in constructionNorwich plasterer Trevor Pickersgill, 79, died on October 5 from asbestos-related malignant mesothelioma after decades in construction, Norfolk Coroner's Court heard.Norwich Evening News · 18 Oct, 10:30

In this story: Trevor Pickersgill · Angeline Pickersgill · Dr Richard Hampshire · Norfolk Coroner's Court · Norwich · Norfolk

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