Father's firm hit with £50k fine after son died whilst cleaning a silo

The 21-year-old tragically died whilst cleaning out a grain silo (Stock photo)
The 21-year-old tragically died whilst cleaning out a grain silo (Stock photo)

A Norfolk company has been fined £50,000 for safety offences after a farmer's son died whilst cleaning a grain silo.

21-year-old Arthur Mason died at Hall Farm in Fincham near Swaffham in 2014. He climbed inside the silo but became immersed under tonnes of grain.

His colleagues heard his "muffled shouts" but he could not raise his head above the grain, and efforts to use a pipe to help him breath failed.

Maurice Mason Ltd which is owned by Arthur's father Hugh Mason, were sentenced at Norwich Crown Court, after having previously admitted failing to discharge its duty to ensure health, safety and welfare at work.

The health and safety executive called the young man's death a 'tragic and avoidable' incident.