On a day that was meant to be filled with joy and celebration, tragedy struck at the Stag and Pheasant pub in Carmel, South Wales. Olwen Collier, 69, was preparing to decorate for her daughter’s birthday party when she tragically fell into the cellar, sustaining fatal head injuries.
The pub’s owners, Philip and Tracy Hawkins, admitted guilt for failing to uphold general health and safety obligations towards their patrons. Judge Paul Thomas KC emphasized the avoidable nature of the accident, stating that ‘dim lighting, poor signage, and unclear directions’ contributed to Mrs. Collier’s fatal fall.
Philip Hawkins, who was deemed more responsible, received a suspended 18-week prison sentence and 150 hours of unpaid work. Tracy Hawkins also received a suspended 18-week sentence. Judge Thomas expressed empathy for the family’s loss but stated that an immediate custodial sentence was not appropriate, despite acknowledging the family’s desire for severe punishment.
The tragedy highlights the critical importance of adhering to health and safety regulations in public establishments, particularly those involving potential hazards like cellars or dimly lit areas.
