AN INDUSTRIAL worker did not die due to asbestos exposure, a coroner has ruled.

Walter Oldham, aged 88, died on New Year’s Day in Weston General Hospital following a battle with pneumonia.

Mr Oldham, of Atlantic Road in Weston, was a retired operations foreman but a post-mortem examination ruled asbestos had not caused his death.

Assistant deputy coroner Gail Elliman recorded a verdict of death by natural causes at Flax Bourton Coroner’s Court.