Cumbrian farmer crushed by tractor after handbrake defect, inquest hears
Daniel Sowerby died on 11 September 2024
A Cumbrian farmer died after being crushed between a tractor and a barn wall when the vehicle's handbrake failed, an inquest has heard.
Daniel Sowerby, from Thursby near Carlisle, was working at Newlands Farm near Wigton on 11 September 2024 when the incident happened.
An inquest at Cumbria Coroner's Court heard he had reversed a tractor up a slope before getting out of the cab and standing between the tractor and the wall of a barn.
The tractor then rolled backwards after its handbrake failed due to a manufacturing defect, trapping Mr Sowerby with the wheel.
The coroner said Mr Sowerby suffered "unsurvivable" chest injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene at 11.55am.
The coroner concluded his death was accidental.
"A cheeky chappy but also a true gentleman"
His family have previously paid tribute and described him as a "cheeky chappy but also a true gentleman".
They continued: "Anyone who knew Dan would say he was a cheeky chappy but also a true gentleman.
"He was loving, hardworking and just an all-round delight to be around. His infectious laugh and smile would light up any room.
"He was one of the kindest souls you would ever meet. We speak for everyone when we say he will be well and truly missed, we all love you forever Dan."