Charlton Athletic volunteer airlifted out of grounds after being crushed by tractor (From News Shopper)

Charlton Athletic volunteer airlifted out of grounds after being crushed by tractor

12:09pm Tuesday 30th October 2012 in Sport By Sarah Trotter

A VOLUNTEER at Charlton Athletic’s training ground had to be flown out by air ambulance after being run over by a tractor.

The Addicks staff member was left with “serious injuries” after reportedly starting up an old machine which had been left in gear and crushed him yesterday (October 29) morning.

News Shopper understands the tractor was used in grounds maintenance at the New Eltham training facility and the volunteer was trying to start the ignition using a screwdriver.

They were airlifted to Royal London Hospital and the Championship football club has now launched an investigation.

A Charlton Athletic Football Club spokesman said: “Charlton have launched an investigation into an accident that left a member of staff at the club’s training ground with serious injuries on Monday morning.

“An air ambulance was called to transport the Addicks staff member to the Royal London Hospital following the incident at the club’s New Eltham headquarters.”

He added that Manager Chris Powell and the first-team squad were not present at the time.