Builder loses leg during demolition

A builder had his leg amputated by paramedics after a chimney he was demolishing collapsed on top of him in Newcastle.

The old pub he was working in had become unstable and paramedics were forced to cut his leg off to free him from the wreckage on Tuesday.

A North East Ambulance Service spokeswoman told the Northern Echo: "The fire brigade were trying to release him because the building was not safe, and he was trapped by a concrete block.

"His left leg was amputated and all limbs were crushed.The patient was taken to Newcastle General Hospital."

Northumbria Police said the worker's injuries were life-threatening.

A spokesman said: "Police received a report from the ambulance service of an industrial accident at the Centurion Inn, in Throckley.

"A man had become trapped under fallen masonry at the former public house, which is in the process of being demolished.

"The injuries have been described as life-threatening and he has been taken to Newcastle General Hospital.

"The Health and Safety Executive has been informed."