A GRAVE digger had to be freed by firemen today after falling into a grave at Ridgemont Cemetery, Horwich.
Craig Farrington, aged 25, who lives in the town, and a colleague were digging when the earth gave way beneath him. He was trapped waist deep.
Two fire crews from Horwich spent about half an hour struggling to release Mr Farrington from the mud and soil.
Station Commander at Hindley Fire Station, Dave Bolton, said his men had to be extremely careful not to cause a second collapse during the rescue operation.
Leading firemen Andrew Charnley, was one of the first firemen on the scene and was in the grave with Mr Farrington during the operation. He said: "As fast as we were taking the earth out more was slipping in. It was quite difficult."
Mr Farrington was taken to the Royal Bolton Hospital. He was not seriously injured. The collapse is believed to have been caused by heavy rain overnight.
Mr Farrington is employed by Brophy's who are contracted by Bolton Council.
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