Firework factory owner convicted of manslaughter
A FIREWORK factory owner has been convicted of the manslaughter of two firemen killed in a massive explosion at his site.
Firefighter Geoff Wicker, 49, and support officer Brian Wembridge, 63, were killed in the blast at family-run Festival Fireworks UK Ltd at Marlie Farm in Shortgate, near Lewes, East Sussex, on December 3 2006.
Company owner Martin Winter, 52, was "grossly negligent" as he knew an unlicensed metal container packed with fireworks could explode if a blaze broke out.
As well as killing the two firemen, both long-serving members of East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service, the blast injured some 20 others, mainly police and fire officers.
Following a trial at Lewes Crown Court, the company, now called Alpha Fireworks Ltd, was also found guilty of two counts of breaching health and safety legislation.
The jury will continue its deliberations on Tuesday on two charges of manslaughter faced by Winter's son Nathan, 25.
For the full report see this Friday's Sussex Express.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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