Joint investigation launched into Banham deaths
A joint investigation between the Health and Safety Executive and police continues today following the death of two men in Attleborough.
Officers were called to Banham Poultry, Station Road, at about 1.10am on, following reports two subcontractors working on the site from a pest control company had been found dead.
Specialist investigators will be on site today looking into the refrigeration gas leak and determining any link with the men's deaths. It is still believed there is no threat to the wider public as result of the gas leak.
A post mortem examination is due to take place in due course to determine the cause of the men's deaths.
A police cordon has been put in place at the scene whilst enquiries continue and this is likely to remain in place for the rest of the day.
In response to Banham Poultry's announcement that it is looking for a new buyer, Breckland Council issued the following statement:
"Breckland Council, along with senior politicians, the New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Norfolk County Council and the Department for Work and Pensions, are doing everything possible to try and support Banham Poultry to protect local employment through this period of uncertainty.
"We are also aware that in an unrelated incident, two contractors have sadly died at the Banham Poultry site. On behalf of all the partners working together to support Banham Poultry, we would like to express our sincere condolences to their families.
"Breckland Council Leader William Nunn, said: 'Banham Poultry has for many years played a key part of the Breckland community, providing a range of local employment opportunities. As a result, we will be doing our utmost, alongside our partners, to support the business to remain within the district.'
Cllr Andrew Proctor, Leader of Norfolk County Council, said: 'Norfolk County Council wants to see the best outcome for all involved and is ready to progress anything we might be able to do to achieve that.'
Chris Starkie, Chief Executive at New Anglia LEP, said: 'Banham Poultry is one of our largest poultry businesses in the area. Our priority is finding a solution for the company ensuring the best way forward for the employees and its financial fitness so it can continue to grow."
"MP George Freeman said: 'Banham Poultry is a major employer in Mid Norfolk’s number one industry and whilst its commercial decisions are for the company to make, I am determined to continue working with partners in Local Government and all of the relevant agencies to best support the company and protect local jobs.'
