Investigations have been launched after a man died in hospital two days after falling from steps at Farnham’s Bourne Mill recycling centre.

Roger Mantle, who had retired just four days earlier at the age of 75, died after a fall, on Saturday, April 6, from steps at the Farnham Community Recycling Centre off Guildford Road.

The centre was closed while emergency services attended and Mr Mantle was airlifted to St George’s Hospital, Tooting, where he died in intensive care on the Monday morning as a result of head trauma.

Mr Mantle, from Upper Hale, worked as an electrician and is survived by his wife Susan and children Stuart and Hannah.

Roger Mantle, 75, died after a fall at Farnham's Bourne Mill recycling centre
Roger Mantle, 75, died after a fall at Farnham's Bourne Mill recycling centre – just four days after retiring as an electrician (Supplied by family)

The centre was later reopened but the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Surrey County Council and Suez, which runs the centre on behalf of the council, are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

A spokesperson for SUEZ said the company is carrying out “a comprehensive review” into the incident and “are ready to assist should the authorities conduct a formal investigation”.

The company added: “Our team were deeply saddened to learn that the member of the public has since passed away and our thoughts are with their family and friends at this time.”

Natalie Bramhall, Surrey’s cabinet member for property, waste and infrastructure, said: “This was a tragic incident and we extend our deepest sympathies to the individual’s family and friends at this time. We are working with Suez to ensure there is a comprehensive review.”

Roger Mantle was rushed to St George's Hospital after falling from the recycling centre steps, but died shortly afterwards
Roger Mantle was rushed to St George's Hospital after falling from the recycling centre steps, but died shortly afterwards (Supplied by family)

A spokesperson for the Health and Safety Executive said: "We are aware of this incident and making enquiries."

News of the tragedy prompted a flurry of comments on social media, with many users saying Mr Mantle’s death underlines the need for an improved, safer recycling centre in Farnham.

A successful campaign was fought to keep Farnham's tip open in 2019 – but councillors then and now have argued Farnham needs a much better recycling centre, with the waste containers accessed from road level, not via steep steps as currently.

One Facebook user, summing up the views of many, said in response to the incident: “I hope this terrible incident will mean that safety on that site will be reviewed. The steps have always been treacherous.”

Farnham’s recycling centre is also off-limits for anyone without a car.