A company that sent just one person to lift a 26-stone machine into place at WH Smith in Maidstone has just been handed a £10,000 fine.

Westways Vending Ltd admitted breaching health and safety laws at Maidstone Magistrates Court.

The single delivery man - helped by a member of WH Smith staff - had to lift the heavy machine up a flight of steps and into the building.

Half-way up the steps the machine fell, injuring the WH Smith worker's leg.

Maidstone council took the company to court, claiming that it was a breach of health and safety laws.

Westways Vending Limited pleaded guilty and was fined £10,000, a victim surcharge of £15 and full costs totalling £2,656.52.