A former health and safety officer at Cowley car plant died of an industrial disease, an inquest heard.

Anthony Bodell, 75, of Kidlington, died at Oxford’s Sobell House hospice on April 25.

A post-mortem examination concluded he died of mesothelioma, a cancer of the organ linings frequently caused by exposure to asbestos, for example in the workplace.

Mr Bodell, who was born in Abingdon, was admitted to Sobell House on April 20 and died five days later.

At the hearing at Oxfordshire Coroner’s Court on Thursday, coroner Darren Salter said an inquest was needed because it was an “industrial disease”.

He adjourned the inquest for more evidence to be gathered. It is due to be resumed on August 21.