Pirelli factory death: Police say death 'could be sinister'

Mr Falder's family said he was the "kindest man you would ever know"

Detectives say they are trying to establish whether the death of a factory worker on Sunday may have had a "sinister" cause.

George Falder, 48, of Carlisle, was found inside an industrial oven at the Pirelli tyre factory.

Tests showed that the father-of-two had not been assaulted before he died.

Det Ch Insp Mike Forrester said: "Our priority is understanding whether this was a tragic accident or whether this was something more sinister."

Answers needed

The oven in which Mr Falder was found can reach temperatures of 150C (302F).

Det Ch Insp Forrester added: "We are working alongside the Health and Safety Executive to establish why Mr Falder went into the machinery on Sunday evening so we can give his family the answers they desperately need.

"As part of our investigation to date we have spoken to many of his colleagues at the factory.

"The police and Pirelli collectively urge anybody with any information relating to this incident to urgently come forward and speak to the police in confidence."

Mr Falder's family said he had a "heart of gold".

A statement released on Tuesday said: "George was happy spending time with his wife Andrea and two children, Emma and Simon and loved walking pet dog Bailey."