A man who died in a recycling centre tragedy has been named.

A bale of waste reportedly fell and fatally struck 58-year-old Dorin Ilie at Chatham Docks earlier this year.

The incident on February 7 prompted a huge emergency response when lorry drivers found him under the load.

It is understood he had worked for PDMR, a business based at the Docks.

A helicopter landed nearby on St Mary’s Island that morning and was joined by paramedics and police shortly before 9:30am.

But sadly, despite everyone’s efforts to rescue him, he died at the scene.

An anonymous worker who had been at the site said to KentOnline at the time: “We tried to get him out, but it became apparent quite quickly he wasn’t going to make it.

“It was awful – the yard staff were in complete shock.

They added: “He used to be there all day to tidy the yard and clear the rubbish from the floor.

“I don’t think there has ever been a fatality.”

Mr Ilie’s death prompted an investigation from both the police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

The latter has listed the incident description as “deceased struck by an object”.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the force told KentOnline at the time: “Inquiries into the incident are underway in partnership with HSE, with a view to providing a report for the coroner.

“His next of kin have been informed.”

An inquest into Mr Ilie’s death will begin at Oakwood House, Maidstone, on October 24.