Two dead at Attleborough poultry factory

An investigation is under way after two men died in an industrial incident in Attleborough.

Police were called to Banham Poultry in Station Road at about 1.10am yesterday, following reports that two sub-contractors from a pest control company who had working on the site had been found dead.

The deaths came on the same day that the firm announced its future could be at risk, with the loss of up to 1,000 jobs.

The two men, aged in their 30s and 40s, were found close to the factory.

No-one else was injured.

Detective Chief Inspector Stu Chapman said: “On behalf of Norfolk Police and other emergency services, I offer my condolences to the friends and families of the men killed in this incident and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“Colleagues from Norfolk Fire Service continue to make the scene safe so that detailed investigations can begin between police, fire, and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) to understand the circumstances which lead to the men’s deaths.”

Next-of-kin have been made aware and family liaison officers will be offering support. A police cordon remained in place at the scene yesterday.

Police confirmed the incident was linked to reports of a suspected chemical spill that had severely disrupted train services travelling to Attleborough.

Greater Anglia tweeted at around 7.30am: “Due to a chemical spillage, train services will not be calling at Attleborough, towards Cambridge direction.

“Services will be stopping in the Norwich direction.

“Emergency services are in the area dealing with the spillage.”