Skip fall man set to receive £1m damages

A man who suffered serious brain damage when he fell into a skip is set to receive over £1 million damages.

Idris Smith had made a remarkable recovery from the August 2004 accident, said Mr Justice Cranston at London's High Court today.

But, the 57-year-old grandfather's personality had changed for the worse with instances of verbal aggression, low mood and tolerance, poor memory and reduced concentration.

Mr Smith, of Parc Afon, Dinas, Rhondda, South Wales, had little insight into his condition and needed significant support in his daily life.

The accident happened at the premises of LC Window Fashions Ltd, where he worked as a truck driver and factory operator.

The company's insurers admitted liability but disputed the amount of compensation to be awarded for future earnings, the degree of care management required and accommodation.

The judge ruled that Mr Smith was entitled to the full amount of loss of earnings claimed to the age of 65.

The support worker and case management hours claimed were also allowed in full, as were the costs of moving to a more suitable house.

Mr Smith's lawyers, Stewarts Law, said that the two sides now had to agree the final compensation sum, but it would be more than £1 million.

His solicitor, Clare Salmon, added that it was an excellent result and meant the family now had the financial security needed to pay for Mr Smith's care.

"Without such support, Idris and his wife would have little quality of life and it would place a huge strain upon their relationship.

"Instead they are now able to plan for their future with Idris motivated and engaged in community life."