AN investigation was under way today into the mysterious death of a young man at a Pendle engineering firm.

Christopher Nolan, 24, collapsed while working alone at Graham Engineering, Edward Street, Nelson.

Paramedics tried to revive him but he died on the way to Burnley General Hospital.

A post-mortem examination was due to be carried out today to establish what caused Christopher's death. It was not clear whether the death was as a result of the welding work he was doing or a medical problem.

The incident happened at 4.30pm yesterday as the shift was finishing for the day. Christopher's death had a traumatic effect on the close-knit workforce.

Sales manager, Ian Fraser, said: "Everyone was totally shocked. They were gutted that we could lose someone that young. It came completely out of the blue.

"It leaves a very big hole. Everyone knows everyone else at this firm and they can't believe it."

Mr Fraser said no-one knew what caused Christopher's death. "We've no idea what's happened to him," he added. "The hospital is doing tests today to try and find out what's killed him."

Mr Fraser said the company passed on its condolences to Christopher's family.

Christopher, who was single and lived in Grindlestone Hirst, Colne, had worked at the firm for two years. His father, Peter, also works at the factory.

The police and Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are carrying out investigations into the incident. The police said it was too early in their investigations to comment further on Christopher's death. An HSE inspector was due to visit the factory today.

East Lancashire coroner David Smith has been informed.

Graham Engineering, which employs around 100 people, does metal fabrication work for a variety of customers including the nuclear power industry.

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