Death at Milton Keynes Recycling Facility

Police were called late yesterday afternoon to what is believed to be an accident.

Health and Safety officials are today investigating whether the tragedy was due to failed machinery, safety breaches, human error or a suicide.

The male victim, who was 42, has not yet been formally identified.

It is understood that he had finished a 12 hour shift, had a shower, and was due to leave for the evening when the incident happened.

Other members of the man’s family are believed to work at the centre, where all staff are to be offered counselling to help them cope.

The recycling centre, known as MRF, was world famous when it was built 23 years ago as the first purpose-built facility of its kind.

The contents of tonnes of pink sacks from all over the city are sorted, crushed in giant machines and then recycled.

The MRF, which operates 24 hours a day, has been viewed over the years by thousands of people during its public tours days.

Ian McAulay, chief executive of Viridor, which runs the facility on behalf of Milton Keynes Council, said: “The entire Viridor team are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our colleague. Our thoughts are with him, his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”

He added: “Viridor is working closely with the relevant authorities who will conduct a full investigation into the incident. Counselling support is being offered to colleagues at the site.