A WORKER from Aspull has died from crush injuries after being trapped in a vacuum press machine at a Westhoughton factory for more than 20 minutes.

Colleagues used a fork lift truck in a bid to free Phillip Ashcroft from the machine at Barkston Plastic Forming at the Wingates Industrial Estate, Wimberry Hill, Westhoughton.

Mr Ashcroft, aged 22, from Aspull, was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital at 11am before being transferred to the North Manchester General Hospital where he died last night. Some of his friends and colleagues were at his bedside as he lost his 10-hour fight for life. Many of them also took a day off work today as a mark of respect.

Mr Ashcroft had only celebrated his 22nd birthday two days ago.

Today, as a Health and Safety Executive investigation was launched, a company spokesman said workers at the factory were in a state of shock and mourning.

He added: "It is tragic. We are all very upset. A lot of Mr Ashcroft's friends are staying off work today and some were with him when he died last night.

"It would be inappropriate to comment any further as an investigation has be launched."

Colleagues at the plastics firm battled for 20 minutes to free Mr Ashcroft from the pressing machine he had been working on.

One man actually climbed into a small gap in the machine in an attempt to free him.

Others ran to get a forklift truck and used it to prise open the press.

Paramedics finally managed to lift Mr Ashcroft out, but he had suffered severe head and chest injuries.

His condition was described as "critical" throughout yesterday but police today confirmed he died at 8.45pm yesterday.

Firefighters from Farnworth and Hindley were also called to the scene.

The company makes plastic catering equipment and other products.

A spokesman for the Health and Safety Executive today confirmed an investigation had now been launched.

An officer from the executive visited the factory and police have also conducted initial inquiries.

The machine is due to be examined and workers will be interviewed in an attempt to find out what happened.

A post mortem examination and formal identification was due to take place later today.