Lorry driver cheats death

THE scene of the crash in Grains Road, Delph

A driver leapt for his life from an out-of-control lorry in Saddleworth yesterday.

Stuart Renshaw, from Werneth, was working at the back of the wagon in Grains Road, Delph, when the vehicle started sliding under him.

The 46 year old leapt out of the way over a drystone wall and landed on a steep embankment. The lorry slid another 30 metres down the road - its brakes still on - before crashing into a wall. The road had been closed to traffic for resurfacing work.

Mr Renshaw hurt his left leg and had cuts and bruises. Police and an air ambulance rushed to the accident. Mr Renshaw was treated by paramedics before being taken to the Royal Oldham Hospital. He is recovering in hospital.

David Rhodes, a director of Chadderton-based Rhodes & Sons, said employee Mr Renshaw had been preparing the road for a new surface layer: “The previous material got wet and turned very slippery, like ice. Mr Renshaw was lifting the stabilising legs of the wagon to get back in the cabin when the wagon started moving. He tried to re-anchor it but jumped off in case it tipped on its side.

“It’s a shock, but we’re glad he’s fine.”

The company will carry out its own investigation. The incident has been reported to the Health and Safety Executive.

@BeatrizAyalaOC