A company director is facing a potential prison sentence after a teenage apprentice joiner was fatally crushed by plasterboard during a house renovation in North Wales.
Tragedy Strikes a Promising Apprentice
Chloe Bidwell, an 18-year-old from Trearddur Bay, Anglesey, died in the incident on 20 December 2023. She was working as an apprentice for the student accommodation firm Varcity Living in Bangor when the tragedy occurred.
Emergency services received a 999 call shortly before 7pm reporting an unconscious and non-breathing female in the hallway of a Bangor property. The caller stated that plasterboard had apparently fallen onto her back.
Court Sees Guilty Pleas Over Safety Failures
At Llandudno Magistrates' Court, David Horrocks, 45, of Felinheli, the director of the construction work, pleaded guilty to failing to discharge a health and safety duty. His company, Varcity Living, also admitted failing to ensure the safety of its employees and contractors.
District Judge Gwyn Jones ordered a pre-sentence report but explicitly warned Horrocks that "all sentencing options, including immediate custody, are still available." Sentencing for both Horrocks and the company has been adjourned until April next year.
Remembering a 'Very Talented Young Lady'
Chloe Bidwell was not only a dedicated apprentice but also a rugby player, described by investigators as a "very talented young lady." Her family attended the court hearing.
In 2023, her skill was recognised when she won the gold prize in the Welsh building skills joinery awards at Coleg Menai for her carpentry work. Following her success in the 'Skills Competition Wales' national final, she spoke about encouraging more women into trade careers.
"To begin with, competing in a male dominant category was quite nerve wracking, but the guys were all lovely and supportive," Chloe said at the time. "However, it would be lovely to see more females and familiar faces competing."
The case was investigated by North Wales Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), highlighting the critical importance of rigorous health and safety protocols on construction sites.
