Farm worker killed as combine clips power lines

From the archive, first published Sunday 12th Aug 2007.

A FARM worker was electrocuted after the combine harvester he was driving clipped power lines.

Edward Andrew Pybus, 21, of Northallerton, North Yorkshire, died in hospital after the incident.

The Nottingham University graduate was working a field at Crystal Palace Farm, in Wiltshire.

He was employed by contractor Velcourt at the farm located at Upper Chute, near Ludgershall.

As he worked in fields at the farm the combine he was driving clipped the power lines last Monday.

Colleagues ran to help the stricken farm worker where he lay close to the combine harvester.

Paramedics tried in vain to resuscitate Mr Pybus on site.

The paramedics risked injury themselves as the combine was still touching the live power lines.

Mr Pybus was airlifted to the Great Western Hospital, in Swindon, by the Wiltshire Air Ambulance. But despite medical aid he died in hospital.

A post mortem has been carried out and an inquest into the death was opened and adjourned at Salisbury Coroners Court.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has inspected the combine harvester and a full investigation will take place.

The HSE is working jointly with Wiltshire Police to investigate the reasons behind the fatal accident.

Mr Pybus is the son of Roger and Rachel Pybus, brother of Charles and partner of Natalie.

His funeral is to take place at St Nicholas Church, in West Tanfield, close to Ripon, North Yorkshire on August 16.