On 15 Aug 2004 19:25:49 -0000, Jerry Built
wrote:

Could it be asbestos of some kind? The panels of (whatever)
are framed in timber, so contribute little structural strength.

If it is (which isn't likely unless it is a home made item) it will
be asbestos cement which is pretty harmless, simply paint over it
again.

--
Peter Parry.
http://www.wpp.ltd.uk/