Tractor driver James Fletcher who works for Chester-based contractor Mike Harley, had a lucky escape when the field he was ploughing gave way underneath him. Here are the pictures. To see them in their largest size keep double-clicking on them
12 total photos Last updated on Fri, Mar 7 2008
Tractor Driver James Fletcher who works for Chester-based contractor Mike Harley, had a lucky esacpe when the field he was ploughing gave way beneath him. He was on the final run of a sloping field near Alvaney, Widnes, when the bank he was on collapsed, sending an estimated 15,000 tonnes of soil sliding down the slope.
Mr Fletcher's tractor and plough was carried a quarter of a mile, through 360 degrees, crossing two fields and ended up being half buried in soil. Amazingly, the tractor started again once dug out, but had to be taken away on a low-loader.
What a mess!
15,000 tonnes! very lucky indeed!!
I would very much like to find out a little more about this landslide - for example the exact location, the weather at the time, how fast it moved, etc. If anyone has any info could they kindky email or send a message to me?
My interest is professional - I am an academic in a UK university with an interest in landslides. I am fascinated by this intriguing event.
Thanks!
David Petley