Today marks nine years since the devastating collapse at Didcot Power Station that claimed the lives of four men — a tragedy that continues to cast a long shadow over their families and the wider community. Despite the passage of time, the families of the victims remain without the answers they deserve.
The Tragic Incident
On February 23, 2016, part of the Didcot A Power Station in Oxfordshire collapsed during demolition work. The partial collapse of the boiler house sent thousands of tonnes of rubble crashing down, trapping four workers beneath the debris.
The four men who lost their lives that day were:
- Michael Collings, 53, from Brotton, Teesside
- Christopher Huxtable, 34, from Swansea
- Ken Cresswell, 57, from Rotherham
- John Shaw, 61, also from Rotherham
Michael Collings’ body was recovered shortly after the collapse, but it took more than six months to retrieve the bodies of Christopher Huxtable, Ken Cresswell, and John Shaw due to the dangerous and unstable nature of the remaining structure.
A Painful Wait for Justice
In the years since the tragedy, the families of the victims have been tormented by delays and a lack of closure. Despite multiple investigations, including by Thames Valley Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), no charges have been brought forward, and the exact cause of the collapse remains unconfirmed.
Speaking on the ninth anniversary, Julie Cresswell, the widow of Ken Cresswell, expressed her ongoing grief and frustration:
“Nine years without answers is too long. We have been left in limbo, with more questions than closure. Our loved ones went to work that day and never came home. We deserve to know why.”
Similarly, Gail Huxtable, the mother of Christopher, said:
“We’ve been living this nightmare for nearly a decade. Every year that passes without justice is another wound reopened.”
Investigations and Inquests
An inquest into the deaths has yet to take place, as legal processes have been stalled pending the outcome of the police and HSE investigation — one of the longest-running of its kind in the UK.
Despite extensive forensic analysis, including the removal of more than 20,000 tonnes of debris, the investigation has struggled to establish definitive accountability.
In previous statements, Thames Valley Police acknowledged the complexity of the case but emphasized their commitment to the families. A spokesperson said:
“We understand the pain caused by the length of this investigation, and we continue to work tirelessly to deliver answers to the families affected by this tragic event.”
Tributes and Community Support
Throughout the day, tributes poured in from community members, colleagues, and public officials, remembering the four men for their dedication and hard work.
A small memorial was held at Didcot Power Station this morning, where families and supporters gathered to lay flowers and observe a moment of silence.
Didcot Town Council also issued a statement:
“We stand with the families today in remembrance of the four men who lost their lives. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten, and we continue to support the call for justice.”
A Continuing Fight for Answers
As another year passes without resolution, the families remain committed to their pursuit of truth and justice. Legal experts and MPs have called for more transparency in the investigation and for an expedited path to an inquest.
For now, the memory of Michael, Christopher, Ken, and John lives on — a reminder of the devastating human cost of workplace safety failures and the enduring strength of the families left behind.
Rest in Peace
