Bridgnorth caves sealed off

Metal fencing standing 10ft high has been put up to prevent people trespassing in historic caves on the outskirts of a Shropshire town where a teenager was killed by falling rocks.

Landowners Apley Estates have installed the fencing around the entrance to the Hermitage Caves, in Bridgnorth, to prevent people entering the complex, which was a favourite site for youngsters to gather.

Aiden Brookes, of Paul-brook Road, Bridgnorth, was camping with friends in the caves, off Lodge Lane, when the tragedy happened last year. The roof of one of the caves collapsed and the teenager was hit by a chunk of sandstone. He died from multiple injuries.

The 16-year-old was with a group of friends who had lit a fire inside one of the caves which caused its roof to fracture. Aiden was asleep by the fire when part of the ceiling fell on top of him.

Graham Manton, estates manager for Apley, said: "Since we put up the fencing a few months ago we have had no evidence of anyone else gaining access to the caves. If we found anyone else in the area we would immediately report it to the police."

Aiden's parents, Kirsty and Ashley Brookes, said she would like to see a memorial to their son placed at the entrance to the site to act as a warning sign to deter other youngsters from entering the caves.