Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in the UK up until the 1980s. It was commonly used in building materials such as insulation, roofing sheets, and floor tiles, due to its fire-resistant and insulating qualities.

However, it's now known that asbestos is a hazardous substance that can cause serious health problems if inhaled. When asbestos-containing materials are damaged or disturbed, they can release microscopic fibres into the air, which can be easily inhaled into the lungs.

Asbestos exposure can lead to a range of serious health conditions, including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. These conditions can take decades to develop, and there is no known cure for them.