Carlisle forklift truck death ruled accidental

The jury at Cumbria House ruled Brian Tuddenham's death was accidental

The death of a man who was trapped between a forklift truck and an HGV loading ramp was accidental, a jury inquest has found.

Brian Tuddenham's forklift truck rolled free at International Rubber and Tyre Recycling Ltd (IRTR) in Carlisle in February 2021.

The jury at Cumbria House said they believed that Mr Tuddenham, 57, had failed to engage the handbrake.

However, the jury added they believed there were defects on the vehicle.

Mr Tuddenham, who was from Carlisle, had been preparing to load rubber on to a lorry in Kingmoor.

The inquest heard he got out of the forklift truck to work on the ramp, but the vehicle rolled across the yard and struck him from the rear.

He died from the impact, the jury at Cumbria House heard.

'Endured anguish'

Asked by Cumbria's assistant coroner, Craig Smith, if they believed Mr Tuddenham had failed to engage the handbrake before he got out of the vehicle, the jury foreman said "yes".

However, they also said they believed that there were defects on the vehicle, identified by an investigation after the accident.

Health and safety inspectors had found a defective handbrake cable, as well as issues with an accelerator switch.

Mr Smith paid tribute to Mr Tuddenham's family who, he said, had not only had to cope with their loss but had also "had to endure the anguish of an inquest".

He said: "By being here, you have served to promote Brian's memory."

International Rubber and Tyre Recycling said: "Everyone at IRTR is devastated at the loss of Brian. Not only was he a highly regarded employee but also a much loved friend.

"We send our heartfelt condolences to Mr Tuddenham's wife, Lisa, and her family."