Emotional tributes were today paid to a workman who died after being crushed by an industrial lawnmower at a Southend park.

Martin Turner, 44, of Old Southend Road, Southend, died following the horrific accident at Southchurch Hall Park.

The sit-on mower is believed to have toppled on a slope in the park.

Five passersby tried to lift the machine off and firefighters battled to save him but he later died from his injuries.

Today, mum Helen, of Sidmouth Avenue, Westcliff, said: "Many people liked him. He was happy-go-lucky and would help anybody. He loved helping people with their gardening."

Brother Terry, from Ivy Bridge, Devon, said: "He was a fighter - ever since he was born three weeks premature.

"He had learning difficulties and the odds were always against him and he was always striving to overcome his difficulties."

Published Wednesday August 14, 2002

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