A TRANENT man has died in hospital following an industrial accident at a supermarket in Perth.

Kenneth Heron, 51, from the Carlaverock area of Tranent, succumbed to his injuries last Thursday after being seriously injured while working on a lift at the Co-op store on Main Street, Bridgend, Perth, on October 11.

Emergency services – including an air ambulance – rushed to the scene of the accident at about 7.30am, with Police Scotland shutting the busy street during rush hour as paramedics and firefighters attended to the stricken engineer.

Mr Heron was airlifted to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee but died six days later.

Witnesses said they believed Mr Heron, who was working for shop-fitting company Wanzl UK, was injured towards the rear of the store.

A multi-agency investigation has been launched into the circumstances surrounding his death and a report submitted to the procurator fiscal.

Married Mr Heron had previously served in the British Army for about 12 years. On one of his tours, he spent six months in Bosnia. More recently, he had also been a postman in East Lothian.

Mr Heron’s wife Sheryl, 36 – and his parents Phyllis Heron, 69, and David Heron, 71, from New Winton – did not wish to comment at this time.

The Co-op said that health and safety was a “key concern” and they were liaising with authorities to aid the investigation.

A shop spokesperson said: “We are very saddened to hear about the death of Kenneth Heron and no words can help ease his family’s loss, who are uppermost in our thoughts.

“We have been in touch with his employer to offer our support.”

Mr Heron’s employer Wanzl UK declined to comment.

Depute First Minister and Perthshire North MSP John Swinney sent his condolences to Mr Heron’s family.

He said: “I am deeply saddened to learn of this news.

“I send my deepest condolences to the victim’s family and friends, along with all those affected by this tragedy.”

Tranent, Wallyford and Macmerry ward councillor Gordon Mackett said: “I am extremely saddened to hear about Kenneth’s passing; my thoughts and condolences are with his family and friends.”

Police Scotland confirmed that Mr Heron had succumbed to his injuries last week.

A spokesperson said: “Officers attended a shop on Main Street, Perth, on the morning of Friday, October 11, following a report of an industrial accident within the premises.

“A 51-year-old man was taken to Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, for treatment, but died of his injuries on Thursday, October 17.

“A report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.

“Inquiries are ongoing and Police Scotland is currently jointly working with staff from Perth and Kinross Council’s Health and Safety Department.”