Alfred Brett has developed asbestosis, pleural thickening, and pleural plaques – scarring on his lungs - according to a writ issued at London's High Court and just made publicly available.

Now Mr Brett, of Burton Road, is claiming damages from Bovis Lend Lease Holdings, of Harrow, and AXA UK Plc, of London, whom he blames for his condition.

The writ claims he developed the conditions after being exposed to asbestos when he worked for Bovis Lend Lease Holdings between 1974 and 1982 on building sites.

It says that most of the sites where he worked involved refurbishment projects, where asbestos radiator covers, insulated pipe work, ceiling tiles, and ductwork were stripped out, and he inhaled dust from this.

Mr Brett says he worked on the projects for ten hour days, and often worked at weekends as well, and was never given any protective clothing or breathing apparatus.

And he says he also worked at other locations where he was exposed to asbestos.

The writ says he is now significantly disabled as a result of developing asbestosis, and his life expectancy has been reduced from 10 years to three years, it is alleged.

Both companies have made admissions, he says.

He is initially seeking provisional damages on the basis that his condition may deteriorate and he may develop lung cancer or malignant mesothelioma and he may then need to seek a higher award.