A man in mid Essex died after injuring himself on a farm, new figures have revealed.

In total, 33 people died on farms across Britain in 2017 to 2018.

New figures from the Health and Safety Executive cement agriculture’s reputation as the riskiest industry to work in.

The East of England had one of the lowest death rates in Britain for the year.

The only fatality was a 57-year-old worker, from Maldon, who slipped and fell in the farmyard when returning to his vehicle.

He fractured his ankle but later died from medical complications related to the injury he suffered.

George Greenock, of rural insurance firm Lycetts, said: “Although the East of England has had one of the lowest death rates this year, one death is one too many.

“Agriculture has a high fatality rate that significantly outstrips that of other industries, with it being more than five times higher than the second most-risky industry, construction.

“Everyone deserves to come home after a hard day’s work so limiting risk and making working environments as safe as they can be should be top priority.”

Richard Wade, of Lycetts Risk Management Services, added: “The fatal injury rate for over-65s was nearly five times that of younger workers.

“Many farmers are working well past their retirement age, with little to no help, so physically, and cognitively, they are put under a lot of strain.

“By implementing health and safety policies, carrying out robust risk assessments and undertaking health and safety training, farmers can ensure good practice is an integral part of their business.

“Death and injury can have a devastating impact on family and friends, so the value of doing so is immeasurable.”