An accident took place on 30th May 2024 at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, North Wheatley in which an employee of Bassetlaw District Council was injured when he fell from a ride on mower whilst working in the churchyard.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) were informed and carried out an investigation before deciding to take legal action relating to the incident.
At Nottingham Magistrates Court on 30th March 2026, Bassetlaw District Council was fined £50k and ordered to pay the HSE’s costs.
David Armiger, Chief Executive at Bassetlaw District Council said:
“Bassetlaw District Council acknowledges the decision and sentence passed at Nottingham Magistrates Court following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive relating to an accident in May 2024.
“We entered an early guilty plea to both charges and have fully cooperated with the HSE throughout their investigation and implemented all of their recommendations, including a more robust approach to Health and Safety measures, training, and working practices.
“Since the accident and the findings of the HSE investigation, we have considerably improved our approach to the management of risk and have been extremely proactive in implementing new and enhanced ways of working, with an ongoing commitment to investment in further change.
“This includes:
additional training with a further £350k investment in health and safety training over a three-year period
additional and more robust compliance
regular process reviews of existing policies
a restructure of the Health and Safety Team, including the creation of new roles
“We take our responsibilities very seriously and remain committed to a positive Health and Safety Culture at the council, with awareness and compliance paramount.
“The employee who was involved in this accident returned to work several months ago and we continue to support them.”
Last Updated on Wednesday, April 1, 2026