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By Daniel Norton
John Altoft, 29, from Scunthorpe was tragicly killed after an accident at Cemex UK cement plant in Rugby.
On January 18 Mr Altoft was working for Cape on nights at the Warwickshire cement plant during an annual shutdown when the accident happened at around 1:45am.
The local Ambulance Service said crews treated a major head injury, but Mr Altoft was pronounced dead at the scene. Also a 36-year-old man who was also injured in the accident was treated for an arm injury at University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.
The accident is still under investigation by the Health & Safety Executive.
Starting in 2001 as a labourer Mr Altoft had worked for Cape at various times during his scaffolding career and was very well known within the industry and scaffolding community.
A spokesman for Cape said: “Cape is greatly saddened by John’s death and extends its deepest sympathy to his family and those close to him.”
It is believed that scaffolders on various sites throughout the country walked out as a mark of respect as the news of Mr Altofts death spread.
A flood of tributes from fellow scaffolders for the well known scaffolder were posted on our site and our facebook page after the news broke last Wednesday.
Chris Cusick said: “R.i.p. John,this should never have happened.” “Deepest sympathy to ben and his sister. A really smashing lad who will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”
Gareth Oakes said: “John i only new you for a short while buddy you’re a top man r.i.p pall”
Craig A Cartmell said: “A shock to all scaffs around the country so so sad.”
Arron Knibbs said: “R I P john, he was good to work with and a spot on lad too, brings a tear to the eye!! Sadly missed!!”
Lucas Laguniak said: “R.I.P John !! Used to work with Him at Drax for Cape also with other 2 lads that been there the same time !!”
Mr Altoft’s funeral will be held at Woodlands Crematorium, Scunthorpe, on Monday, January 30 at 2pm.
