Major Update After Two Workers Found Frozen to Death at Chicken Factory
In a significant development following a tragic workplace incident, two companies have pleaded guilty to health and safety breaches after two workers were found frozen to death at a chicken factory in Norfolk. The case has drawn widespread attention due to the horrific circumstances surrounding the deaths of subcontractors Jonathan Collins, 34, and Neil Moon, 49.
Discovery of the Fatal Incident
Police were called to the Banham Poultry Ltd factory in Attleborough, Norfolk, at approximately 1am on October 4, 2018. Upon arrival, officers discovered the two men dead at the site. A coroner's court review in 2024 revealed chilling details, noting that the pair were found with "frozen hands and faces" and there was "evidence of frost on the floor." The victims had visited the factory as subcontractors from a pest control company, highlighting the risks faced by temporary workers in industrial settings.
Legal Proceedings and Guilty Pleas
The two companies involved, Banham Poultry Ltd and Air Products PLC, were due to stand trial at Norwich Crown Court on Wednesday, February 25. They faced serious charges, including:
- Two counts of corporate manslaughter each
- Additional counts under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
However, in a pivotal moment, both companies entered guilty pleas to health and safety offences. Banham Poultry Ltd admitted to two breaches, while Air Products PLC, based in Chertsey, pleaded guilty to one breach. These offences related to failing to ensure, so far as reasonably practicable, a duty of care to workers.
Craig Hassall KC, prosecuting, stated that these pleas were acceptable to the crown. Consequently, no evidence was offered in respect of the corporate manslaughter charges, and not guilty verdicts were entered for those counts. The court heard that the guilty pleas were based on the "significant cause of actual harm" resulting from the companies' failures.
Sentencing and Family Tributes
The Honourable Mrs Justice Farbey has adjourned sentencing for a two-day hearing scheduled for March 31 and April 1. This delay allows for a thorough consideration of the case's gravity and the impact on the victims' families.
In heartfelt tributes, the family of Jonathan Collins described him as a "devoted family man who will continue to be loved and missed by all those who knew him." Neil Moon's widow, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed profound grief, saying, "Neil was the most amazing husband and father. There are no words to describe the loss I feel. Life will never be the same again." His son added, "I will miss listening to his stories, my life will never be the same without him. He was my hero and the best father I could've ever asked for." Mr Moon's daughter also shared her sorrow, stating she would cherish their memories together.
Changes in Ownership and Current Status
Since the tragedy, the ownership of Banham Poultry has undergone significant changes. The day after the deaths, the factory was bought by Chesterfield Poultry following Banham Poultry Limited's entry into administration. In October 2021, the business was sold to Boparan Private Office (BPO), owned by Ranjit Boparan, founder of the 2 Sisters Food Group.
It is important to note that the current management and owners of Banham Poultry are not connected to the 2018 incident nor involved in the ongoing legal proceedings. This separation underscores the complex legacy of corporate responsibility in cases where ownership transitions occur after fatal accidents.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of workplace safety, particularly for subcontractors and temporary workers who may face heightened risks. As the sentencing hearing approaches, the focus remains on ensuring justice for the victims and their families while highlighting the need for stringent health and safety protocols across all industries.
