A binman has been crushed to death by his own lorry at a school.

The unnamed public sector worker died at about 8.20am on Wednesday at the prestigious Benenden School near Tenterden, which has taught the likes of Princess Anne.

School staff rushed to his aid and called paramedics, who couldn't save his life despite their best efforts.

No children are believed to have seen the incident, the victim of which was a contractor for Tunbridge Wells Council.

A Benenden School spokesman said: “We can confirm that there was a serious accident on Wednesday morning involving a refuse collection vehicle which, tragically, resulted in the death of a refuse worker working for a contractor on behalf of the council. Nobody else was injured in this incident and no pupils or staff were involved.

“Several members of School staff were immediately on the scene and did everything they could to help the man before the emergency services arrived.

“The thoughts of all of us here at Benenden are with the family of this man after this terrible incident.”

An investigation into the circumstances of the tragic accident has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive.

Police have confirmed the details, with a spokesman saying: "We were called at 8.20am on Wednesday, to the grounds of a school off Mounts Hill, Benenden.

It is reported that a refuse collection vehicle had collided with a refuse worker, employed by the local authority.

"Officers and ambulance crews attended and the man was declared deceased at the scene. His next of kin have been informed.

"The Health and Safety Executive will lead any subsequent investigation."

HSE and the ambulance service have been contacted for more information.

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