A worker sacked after "blowing the whistle" about dangerous working conditions has been vindicated by an industrial tribunal.

Laindon pipe layer Steve Denne reached an undisclosed out of court settlement with his former employers after the tribunal ruled he had been unfairly dismissed.

Mr Denne, 41, of Mellow Purgess Lane, was told to pour chlorinated water down public drains and "crack on" without vital safety equipment, risking striking electricity cables and gas pipes, Stratford Industrial Tribunal heard.

But when he and a workmate complained they were sacked.

The pair have been unable to find work since the incident in October.

The tribunal were told Mr Denne and Howard Smith, of Elm Park, Hornchurch, had to work without scanners, fire extinguishers and dechlorinating crystals by their south London employers M Holleran.

The pair were experienced workmen but were given their cards just two weeks into the job. Mr Denne said the decision was a warning to other companies who ignored the safety of their workers.

He said: "It is a warning to these companies that there are men out there who will blow the whistle and are not just interested in the daily rate, but safe practices at work.

"We would like to thank all those who listened to us and had the time for us. It was never just about the money."

The decision upholding their claims was originally made in December.

James Stuart, counsel for M Holleran, failed to have the case thrown out after the original decision was not typed up and sent to the hearing.

The panel also rejected claims the pair were dismissed for poor time-keeping.

David Williams, representing the two men, said: "Both Mr Smith and Mr Denne were both relieved the decision went in their favour and will be at liberty to tell people in the future."

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