South Tyneside is one of the worst areas in the country for the asbestos-related terminal disease mesothelioma.

The British Lung Foundation (BLF) has asked those coping with the disease, or their nearest and dearest, to complete an online survey, so they can receive maximum support.

Anne Craig, of Hebburn, an official of the Mick Knighton Mesothelioma Research Fund, has backed the BLF initiative. Mrs Craig, whose husband David died of mesothelioma, said: "This survey is an excellent idea, because it will allow the BLF to push for new legislation, as well as offering practical help to sufferers in South Tyneside, which is one of the worst areas in the country for the disease, because of our history of shipbuilding and heavy industry.

"I would encourage people to complete the BLF survey as soon as they can."

Mesothelioma, a disease with a long incubation period, is set to claim thousands of lives across the UK in the next decade.

Dame Helena Shovelton, chief executive of the BLF, said: "South Tyneside has been identified as one of top 10 hot spots for mesothelioma in the UK.

"The BLF wants to ensure that people with mesothelioma in the South Tyneside area get the best possible treatment and care available.

"We also want to guarantee that they and their families receive all the support and information that they need."

To complete the survey, visit the BLF website at www.lunguk.org/mesosurvey.

The survey only takes 10 minutes to complete.
People can also call the BLF helpline on 08458 50 50 20.