HGV driven into man at brick factory

A LORRY driver deliberately drove his HGV into a factory manager during a row over health and safety rules.

- By ROB KENNEDY

The shocking incident occurred after Daniel Ley attended Ibstock brick factory, in Throckley, Newcastle, in a DAF heavy goods vehicle, to collect some bricks.

A member of staff spoke to him about tying down his load of bricks in a manner required to comply with health and safety rules.

During the loading procedure, Ley asked if he could climb on the vehicle and put netting over the load.

Kevin Wardlaw, prosecuting, told Newcastle Crown Court that despite being told he could not do so, as it would breach health and safety rules, he climbed on the trailer.

On being told the matter would have to be reported, he replied: “If that's what you have to do, that's what you have to do.”

A factory manager was informed and he then spoke to Ley.

Mr Wardlaw said: “He informed the defendant if he did not comply with health and safety rules, he would not be welcomed back at the yard. The defendant responded by saying he could take the bricks off.

“The complainant said he would arrange for a driver to do that and asked the defendant to remove straps securing the bricks.”