Review into Banham Poultry deaths reveal tragic details

Pest control subcontractors Jonathan Collins, 34, from Watton, and Neil Moon, 49, from Spalding, had been working at Banham Poultry factory in Attleborough.  

They were found dead during the early hours of October 4, 2018. 

The incident was investigated by detectives from the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team, working alongside the Health and Safety Executive.   

Last week it was announced that two companies would be prosecuted for corporate manslaughter over the deaths of the two men.   

A review was held at Norfolk Coroner’s Court on June 12 where it was heard that an inquest would be adjourned until later in the year. 

At the brief hearing, the assistant coroner Christopher Leach also revealed more details into the tragic circumstances surrounding their deaths. 

He said: "They were discovered in a narrow space between an exterior wall of the factory and the wall of the railway station. 

“Both men had frozen hands and faces and there was evidence of frost on the floor. 

“This inquest is currently suspended and therefore it is not appropriate to proceed into an inquest at this stage.” 

A further pre-inquest review has been listed to take place on December 11, 2024. 

Norfolk Coroner's Court (Image: Newsquest)

A statement from Norfolk Constabulary said: “Banham Poultry Limited, which went into administration in October 2018, is being prosecuted for two counts of corporate manslaughter and two counts of failing to discharge duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. 

“Air Products PLC is being prosecuted for two counts of corporate manslaughter and one count of failing to discharge duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974." 

Both companies are required to attend Norwich Magistrates' Court on July 9. 

The current management and owners of Banham Poultry are not connected to the incident nor involved in the legal proceedings.