AN inquiry has been launched into the death of a quarry foreman who was crushed under a skip.

Mark Armitage, a 24-year-old father of two, died in Middlesbrough General Hospital on Thursday following the accident in Teesdale, County Durham.

His family were waiting yesterday to learn more about the accident, at Hulands Quarry, Bowes, near Barnard Castle.

Mr Armitage was alone, carrying out maintenance work. It is believed he was pinned under the builder's skip after it fell.

He suffered massive internal injuries and was taken to hospital by air ambulance. He later died from the injuries.

The Health and Safety Executive yesterday confirmed it had launched an investigation into the accident, which it said would be a lengthy process.

Mr Armitage's employers, Aggregate Industries UK Ltd, which is based in Coalville, Leicestershire, has pledged to cooperate with inquiries.

Geoff Parkin, the firm's regional director, said: "Mark, a foreman, was involved in an accident while he was carrying out maintenance work at the site.

"Our thoughts and those of his colleagues are with Mark's family and friends at this time. We are working closely with the HSE to research into the cause of the incident.