A man suffering from asbestos related cancer has launched a High Court legal battle for compensation of up to £250,000.

Richard Shepherdson, 61, has developed malignant mesothelioma, a cancer of the tissues surrounding his lungs or his abdomen, according to a writ issued at London's High Court.

Now Mr Shepherdson, of Tulip Close, Biggleswade, is claiming damages from DH Allan and Sons, who he blames for his condition.

The writ says Mr Sheperdson developed mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos when he worked for the company as a shop fitter and joiner between 1960 and 1970.

It says that during his time with the company he worked at the company's workshop in Newcastle Upon Tyne and at premises which included Marks and Spencer at Newcastle, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Stockton, Darlington, Barnsley, Worksop, Hull, Carlisle, Redcar, and Barrow in Furness.

He worked close to others who were moving asbestos insulation sheets, and cut insulation sheets to size, swept up dust and debris, and used circular saws and handsaws to cut sheets, the writ says.

He also scribed the edges of cut sheets, loaded and unloaded insulation, drilled sheets, and screwed and fixed them into position, which allowed dust to fall onto his face, it is alleged.

Mr Shepherdson has developed malignant mesothelioma, and suffers from chest pain and shortness of breath.

The writ accuses the company of negligence and breach of statutory duty.

It says the company negligently failed to provide a safe place or system of work, failed to warn him of the dangers of asbestos, and failed to keep his workplace properly ventilated.