A man will stand trial in spring 2019 charged with the manslaughter of a man at a skip hire firm in Besthorpe.

Eastern Daily Press: James Criddle, who died in an industrial incident in Besthorpe. Picture courtesy of Kevin Copplestone.James Criddle, who died in an industrial incident in Besthorpe. Picture courtesy of Kevin Copplestone. (Image: Kevin Copplestone)

James Criddle, 29, from Watton, died in an incident involving machinery while working at Baldwins Skip Hire on May 15, 2017.

Robert Baldwin, of Silver Street, Besthorpe, has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the industrial incident.

Baldwin, 47, appeared at Norwich Crown Court today.

A trial date has been fixed for March 11 next year, and arraignment has been deferred to another hearing.

Baldwin was granted unconditional bail.

The company, Baldwins Skip Hire, has also been charged under the Heath and Safety at Work Act 1974 for failing to discharge general health, safety and welfare duty to employee.

Tributes were paid to Mr Criddle, who has a young daughter, following his death.

He was described as a 'much-loved' friend and family member.

A statement from his mother, Naomi Criddle, and girlfriend, Holly Eagling, said: 'James was a big part of our family – partner to Holly and father to Lexi.

'A son to Naomi, brother to Alan and an uncle to Oliver, nephew, cousin and grandson.

'Dearly loved and missed by us all. He is now with his dad Colin, who he lost in 1999.

'He was a kind, loving and caring person; doing anything for anyone. [He] hardly moaned and always did his best for anyone.

'He will be desperately missed.'

Mr Criddle, known as Jimmy, was a fan of racing banger cars.

Before he died, he was fitting out a car with good friend Jamie Read, which he hoped to race.