Alweston villager killed in tractor tragedy

Robin Wells, 59, died after the vehicle rolled over and trapped him underneath as he was carrying out gardening work at his home in Alweston, near Sherborne.

Emergency services included the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance attended on Sunday afternoon but Mr Wells was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police confirmed that an inquest had been opened and adjourned into the death of Mr Wells and that his next of kin had been informed.

A spokesman added that Dorset Police’s traffic department would be investigating the incident.

A villager who lives nearby to Mr Wells said the electrician was a well-liked and helpful neighbour.

He said: “We are all pretty close here. He was a fine chap and always ready to help you whenever you needed help.”

The resident added that Mr Wells’ death was likely to be felt throughout much of the village.

He said: “It’s a small community and obviously it hits us all. It’s a terrible shock and you just don’t expect it.”

Another resident said she understood Mr Wells’ death was the tragic consequence of an unfortunate gardening accident. She said: “The chap was gardening and I believe trying to pull a shrub or some garden plant out with the old tractor that didn’t have roll bars and unfortunately it just flipped over.

“The ambulance was here in about five minutes but there was nothing anyone could do.

“It’s a tragic accident and my thoughts are with his family.”

Local member for West Dorset District Council Richard Jungius said he had been in Alweston for a meeting the day before the incident.

He described the tragic accident as ‘terribly sad’ and said his thoughts were with Mr Wells’ family.

He said: “It’s obviously terribly sad and dreadful.

“We all sit here and at times make fun of what we regard as ridiculous health and safety type things but these accidents do happen.

“I know myself I have nearly had a few accidents while gardening.

“My thoughts are with his family as it’s very sudden and unexpected.”