Emergency services were called to a serious incident in Banbridge town on Saturday after a man was injured falling into an open trench.
The gentleman, who was on a mobility scooter at the time, became trapped in the hole. He was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment following the incident on Newry Street.
Alliance Party councillor Brian Pope, was at the scene this afternoon to offer his assistance. He told Belfast Live that he has asked the utility company to inspect the open excavation as a matter of urgency.
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He added: "I asked that they carry out any appropriate measures to make safe and they have now confirmed that they are undertaking this as a priority.
"When I heard reports of the incident, I went straight down to the area and the gentleman was being treated by paramedics. Police were also there with the Fire and Rescue Service and NI Ambulance Service.
"I offered my assistance to the man's wife and daughter there. I understand he was making his way along the footpath and that there was only approximately one metre between the barrier that was temporarily put up in front of the trench and the shops.
"He had fallen in with his scooter and it was quiet a serious situation. My thoughts are with the individual who has now been taken to hospital.
"I want to ensure that all excavations are safe in the town, there are a lot of work going on at the moment.
"The town was very busy today, the weather was good and there was a lot of shoppers about who would have seen this incident."
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