A north Essex man has died after a 50ft tree he was cutting fell on top of him.

Emergency services, including the Essex Air Ambulance, attend the scene of the accident

The victim was trapped by branches after he had been cutting down the tree in the back garden of his bungalow in Frinton Road, Kirby Cross. His father was with him when the accident happened.

NEEDES doctor Nigel Roper, from a nearby surgery, went to the man's aid and the Essex Air Ambulance was called.

Frinton fire station officer Colin Batten said the victim had been standing on scaffolding about 8ft off the ground when the tree, which was more than 50ft tall, fell on him, pinning him on top.

"The scaffolding had four sides and there was just nowhere for him to go. He was just trapped. It was a real tragedy."

Mr Batten said he could not explain why the tree, which split into two large pieces, had suddenly fallen. He said the victim had been using a chainsaw and the blade was bent in half.

David Thomas, deputy coroner's officer, said a post mortem examination would be held. An inquest was also due to be opened and adjourned today.

This Is Essex has agreed not to name the victim

Published Tuesday, March 12, 2002