A man has sadly died after becoming trapped in a building site trench near Hemel Hempstead.

The individual became trapped at Potten End prior to 11.27am on Friday (May 3), when Hertfordshire police were called.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service also attended the scene, but were unable to free the man before he passed away.

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed of the incident.

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Constabulary said: "Police were called at 11.27am on Friday (May 3) to assist the ambulance service at the scene of a workplace incident at a construction site in Hempstead Lane, Potten End.

"It was reported that a man was trapped in a trench.

"The fire and rescue service also attended but, despite the best efforts of the emergency services, the man sadly passed away at the scene.

"Our thoughts are with his loved ones at this sad time.

"The Health and Safety Executive has been informed."

A spokesperson for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service added: “On Friday morning Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service Fire were called to assist the Ambulance Service after a man became trapped in a trench at an address in Potten End.

“Fire Control quickly dispatched teams to help and fire engines from Berkhamsted, Watford, and St Albans - along with the Rescue Support Unit from St Albans - attended the incident and began rescue efforts using specialist equipment. 

“Over the course of a number of hours our crews worked alongside colleagues from Ambulance Hazardous Area Response Teams (HART) and the Air Ambulance to rescue the individual. Sadly, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

”We’d like to extend our condolences to the friends and family of the man and pay tribute to the dedication of the emergency service teams who worked tirelessly to save him.”