Retired boxing champion died of pneumonia brought on by asbestos, inquest told
A former boxing champion died of pneumonia after being exposed to asbestos for many years, an inquest heard.
William O'Rourke, 77, of Sedlescombe Road North, St Leonards, passed away on May 3 this year at St Augustines Nursing Home.
Dr Ian Hawley, who carried out the post-mortem, told an inquest hearing on Wednesday that Mr O'Rourke's left lung was suffering from a malignant mesothelioma, caused by long-term asbestos exposure.
His daughter Collette said her late father was involved in the building of the Hollington estate in the 1950s working as a scaffolder and labourer.
One of his jobs included knocking down prefabricated buildings which used asbestos.
He also worked in the Ponswood Industrial Estate from 1958 to 1960 where he worked in a dusty environment.
From 1974 until 1987 he and his late wife Teresa ran Old Roar Children's Home, with many young people benefiting from their love and guidance.
His daughter said at Wednesday's inquest that she believed her father was also exposed to asbestos at the children's home as the boiler was insulated with it.
Mr O'Rourke was born in Hastings and was well-known around town.
He served in Gibraltar during his National Service from 1950 to 1952 and became Army boxing champion.
He was an instructor at the West Hill Boy's Club, later becoming its life president.
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Mr O'Rourke was chief steward in charge of security at the Hastings Pier ballroom.
He was also in charge of entertainment for the London Irish Association, himself being a talented singer of Irish songs.
Mr O'Rourke played his penny whistle in many of Hastings' clubs and pubs.
Coroner Alan Craze recorded a verdict of death due to industrial disease.
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