Tributes to man who died when Polaris Ranger vehicle and trailer plunged into Lancashire river after wooden bridge collapsed

The family of a man who died following a bridge collapse in the Lancashire countryside have paid tribute to him.
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

Brian Harwood, 73, of Penrith, Cumbria died after a Polaris Ranger pulling a trailer fell into a river when a wooden bridge, supported by scaffolding, collapsed.

The incident happened on a farm in the Moor Lane area of Roeburndale on Tuesday (January 18).

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In a statement his partner said: “Brian meant so much to me and the people around us. Everyone he knew enjoyed his company. We are devastated about what has taken place and fully support the investigation. I ask that people respect our privacy and allow us to grieve in private. “

Brian Harwood died when a bridge collapsedBrian Harwood died when a bridge collapsed
Brian Harwood died when a bridge collapsed

Detectives are continuing their investigation following the fatal bridge collapse.

Read More
'Awful' Reaction as man dies in bridge tragedy.

Eleven people were in the ranger vehicle and trailer at the time of the incident.

Mr Harwood suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Formal identification has taken place and his next of kin are being supported by officers.

Emergency services attend the incidentEmergency services attend the incident
Emergency services attend the incident
Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Two other men aged in their 60’s and 70’s are receiving treatment in hospital for their injuries.

Emergency services including police, ambulance crews, fire crews and mountain rescue attended the scene.

An investigation into the circumstances around the incident is continuing and the Health and Safety Executive has been informed.

The collapsed bridgeThe collapsed bridge
The collapsed bridge

Det Insp Kirsty Wyatt, of Lancashire Police, said: “Our investigation into yesterday’s bridge collapse is very much ongoing.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Our thoughts remain with Mr Harwood’s loved ones and everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“We are supporting the families of those involved and working with partners to establish what caused the bridge to collapse.

“Our enquiries are continuing with investigators expected to remain at the scene over the coming days.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to the members of the emergency services who supported the operation, in what were very difficult conditions, as well as the community of Roeburndale, for their support, while our enquiries continue.”

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.