Factory worker found dead in machine

Police and safety experts have begun an investigation after a factory worker was found dead in a piece of machinery, police said today.

The dead man was named as Brian Allison, 56, of Ferryhill, County Durham, whose body was found in a large industrial hopper at the Vertex plant, which makes worktops and kitchens in Shildon.

A search was launched for Mr Allison, who was married, after he was reported missing and colleagues discovered him inside the machinery some hours later.

He had suffered multiple injuries, a Durham Police spokesman said.

The coroner has been informed and a post mortem will be carried out to establish the cause of death.

The Health and Safety Executive and police have launched an investigation, the force spokesman added.