The family of a decorator who died from asbestos exposure has told a court they believe his medical needs were “overlooked during the pandemic”. 

Michael Newstead, 77, of Ark Close in Kessingland, near Lowestoft, moved to Suffolk in 2001 for better quality air after suffering from severe shortness of breath.

As his condition became worse, he had repeat admissions to the James Paget Hospital (JPH). 

A statement from his daughter, Amanda Freemantle, was read out at an inquest into his death at Norfolk Coroner’s Court on January 12. 

She said: “My father was a skilled painter and decorator who obtained his City and Guilds qualification at the Brixton School of Building while concurrently working for Jerram Falkus Construction.

“During this period, he worked as a foreman in his profession, during which time he was exposed to asbestos while sanding down guttering, pipework laced with asbestos, and removing Artex. 

Eastern Daily Press:

“Following his tenure as a self-employed painter and decorator, he worked as an instrumental case maker and liner from 1990 to 2001.

“Around 1995, my father began experiencing tightness in his chest and breathlessness prompting my family relocate to Suffolk.

“Over the years his breathing difficulties escalated, impacting his quality of life significantly. 

“His health steadily declined, and he experienced extreme difficulties in performing everyday tasks.

“During the pandemic his medical needs seem to have been overlooked.” 

Following an admission with “progressive breathlessness” to the JPH in May 2023, Ms Freemantle added: “[There were] significant short comings in his care and treatment.” 

In his evidence, Dr Paul Babu from the JPH, said: “On May 21, the family were spoken with and it was explained to them that Mr Newstead was very unwell and that there was a possibility he may not survive the admission.

“The patient was reviewed on a daily basis by the foundation’s doctors and internal medicine trainees.” 

Mr Newstead died at 2.50pm on June 17.

The medical cause of death was given as acute bronchitis and bronchopneumonia due to pulmonary asbestosis.

Area coroner Samantha Goward said: “I’m satisfied that the care continued as was best able during the time of the Covid pandemic.” 

She concluded Mr Newstead died from industrial disease. 

  • To pay tribute to a loved one, email norfolkobituaries@newsquest.co.uk     
  • To read all obituaries and tributes join the Facebook group Norfolk's Loved & Lost.