Workman dies after getting trapped in trench at construction site

A workman has died after becoming trapped in a trench at Potten End near Hemel Hempstead on Friday.

Emergency crews were sent to Hempstead Lane in the village and battled to save the man, who tragically died.

Area Commander Lee Haward said: ‘On Friday morning Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service were called to assist the Ambulance Service after a man became trapped in a trench at an address in Potten End.

‘Fire Control quickly dispatched teams to help and fire engines from Berkhamsted, Watford, and St Albans, along with the Rescue Support Unit from St Albans, attended the incident and began rescue efforts using specialist equipment.

‘Over the course of a number of hours our crews worked alongside colleagues from Ambulance Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART) and the Air Ambulance to rescue the individual. Sadly, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

‘We’d like to extend our condolences to the friends and family of the man and pay tribute to the dedication of the Emergency Service teams who worked tirelessly to save him.’

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire police said: ‘Police were called at 11.27am on Friday, May 3 to assist the ambulance service at the scene of a workplace incident at a construction site in Hempstead Lane, Potten End.

‘It was reported that a man was trapped in a trench. The fire and rescue service also attended but, despite the best efforts of the emergency services, the man sadly passed away at the scene. Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this sad time.’

The Health and Safety Executive has been informed.

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