Branch theory in forestry death

A forestry worker has died in woodland near the Shropshire/Powys border after being struck by what police believe to have been a falling tree branch. Dave Francis was cutting down trees in woodland at Christchurch Parish Church in Bwlch-y-cibau, near Llanfyllin.

The incident happened at about 2.20pm yesterday.

Dyfed-Powys Police today said a man was confirmed dead at the scene and an investigation had been launched.

Officers sealed off the woodland area where Mr Francis, who worked for Access Hire Services based in Oswestry, was cutting back trees as part of a contract job the company has with Scottish Power.

A spokesman for Access Hire Services today named Mr Francis as the victim but made no further comment.

Sian George, communications officer at Dyfed-Powys Police, said: "It would appear that a man was injured by what appears to be a branch falling from a tree but an investigation will commence to establish the full circumstances.

"Dyfed-Powys Police and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating the circumstances of the death of a local forestry worker in the Llanfyllin area. The investigation is currently ongoing."

Brian Owen, managing director from Access Hire Services, was at the scene last night along with representatives from Scottish Power.

Scottish Power wrote to villagers two weeks ago to inform them of the work that was to be carried out on woodland at the parish church.

Neighbours from the small village said they were stunned by the news.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "It was a real shock. There were police and fire engines everywhere and it was obvious something had happened."