A NORTH-EAST support group for people affected by asbestos-related illnesses has been launched.

The Tyne and Wear Asbestos Support Group (TWASG) aims to provide information, advice and support to potential claimants.

Asbestos has killed, and is continuing to kill, thousands of workers in the shipbuilding, engineering, construction and energy industries.

About 12,000 people have died from asbestos poisoning since 2002, and experts believe that by 2015, 10,000 people a year will die from asbestos-related illnesses, including asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

The group, based in Newcastle, will co-ordinate access to benefits and legal advice.

The trade union-backed group will also campaign on health and safety, particularly to ensure employers are enforcing safety rules on the management of asbestos.

John Kelly, a GMB union official and member of the TWASG, said: "Between 1981 and 2000, there were 932 deaths from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma in the Tyne and Wear area. That is a staggering 49 deaths per year.

"Given that nationally the experts say the death toll from asbestos poisoning will rise dramatically over the next decade or so, we have little doubt that the North East will contribute more than its share to this tragedy.

Nick Brown, MP for Newcastle East and Wallsend, said: "The launch of the asbestos support group is timely.

"There is so much that still needs to be done."