Workers named after pit tragedy

It is thought the two men were overcome by fumes

Two men who died following an incident in an industrial pit in Hereford have been named.

Stuart Jordan, 50, from Bishopstone and Richard Clarkson, 29, from Madley, were working at a factory when it is thought they were overcome by argon fumes.

Fire crews were called to the scene at Bodycote Limited, in College Road, on Monday, and recovered the two men who later died in hospital.

The site will remain closed for several days while inquiries continue.

'Deepest sympathies'

The families of the two men said they were shattered and devastated, but they needed to know the truth about the circumstances, however painful it might be.

The company's chief executive John Hubbard said everyone at the firm was devastated by the loss of two of their colleagues.

"We don't know yet the exact details of what happened yesterday but we are working with the police and all relevant authorities.

"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families and friends of those involved."

A West Mercia Police spokesman said argon gas was present in the pit but stressed that residents living in the surrounding area were not in any danger.