A company has pleaded guilty to failing to ensure the safety of its workers after a man was killed by falling scaffolding.

Jack Phillips died after he was struck by the scaffolding that had fallen from a crane at South Cliff Tower, Bolsover Road, Eastbourne, on August 8, 2019.

The 24-year-old, who was from Romford in Essex, was described by his family as the “most loving son” who lived for football and loved a laugh.

At Brighton Magistrates Court yesterday, Brand Energy and Infrastructure Services UK Ltd (trading as Lyndon SGB at the time of the incident) pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety Act by failing to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of all its employees.

Ronald Efferion, who was the operator of the crane at the time of the incident, denied the charge of failing to take reasonable care for his own health and safety, as well as the health and safety of others who may be affected by his acts or omissions at work.

The 29-year-old opted to be tried at crown court and will appear at Lewes Crown Court on August 21.

The court heard there was not an adequate risk assessment in place for a manoeuvre which involved delivering sections of masts that were being lifted to a great height.

The court was told one of the nylon straps around the masts had failed.

It was also said in court that the straps were supposed to be examined every six months.

However, it was said, the strap was last checked nine months prior to the incident.

The court heard Efferion “had not picked up on” the strap being beyond its inspection date and had not ensured the lifting zone was clear.

Brand Energy and Infrastructure Services UK Ltd will be sentenced at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on October 30.

Paying tribute to Jack following his death in 2019 his family said: "Our beloved son Jack was tragically taken from us in a work accident.

"He lived for his football and loved having a laugh and joke with all his friends and was always smiling. Jack would always be there to help and was the kindest most loving son.”

Jack Sales from Fieldfisher who is representing the family said: "Employers must take steps to protect employees and provide safe systems of work.

"Noone expects to go to work and not return home safely."