A REFUSE collector who seriously injured his shoulder while collecting rubbish for recycling has received �57,000 in compensation. Alan Shambrook tripped on a raised paving slab in July 2005, while working for Stevenage Borough Council. The 55-year-old, w

A REFUSE collector who seriously injured his shoulder while collecting rubbish for recycling has received �57,000 in compensation.

Alan Shambrook tripped on a raised paving slab in July 2005, while working for Stevenage Borough Council.

The 55-year-old, who lives with his wife in Stevenage, was collecting the recycling boxes in Archer Road when he fell badly on his left knee, shoulder and elbow.

He had to have two operations on his shoulder, take 15 months off work, and has been left unable to do a number of activities, including heavy lifting and swimming.

Due to his disabilities, Mr Shambrook has since had to take a lesser-paid job driving a road sweeper.

Thompsons Solicitors, representing Mr Shambrook at Luton Crown Court, claimed the fall occurred as a result of Hertfordshire County Council's (HCC) failure to maintain and repair the pavement.

HCC admitted liability and Mr Shambrook was awarded �57,000 in compensation. He said: "I am pleased to have been awarded compensation, but the injury has been extremely painful and has changed my life dramatically.

"After the accident I had keyhole surgery, but this did not work, so I had to have painful open surgery.

"My wife has been left to lift her disabled mother on her own, I am unable to take my grandson to our regular swimming sessions, and I have had to give up golf.

"I also had to stop my recycling duties and take a lesser-paid job driving a road sweeper, which has hit me financially."

A spokesman for HCC said: "We are always sorry to hear of anyone injuring themselves and, when we are liable, will pay the necessary compensation. In the case of Mr Shambrook, we admitted liability and then attended the hearing to decide on a settlement."

The council spokesman said HCC works hard to keep on top of pavement repairs, and has an emergency response team that repairs hazardous pavements within 24 hours of the council receiving a report.

If you spot a damaged pavement, or any other highway fault, report it to HCC on 0300 123 4047 or online at www.hertsdirect.org/highwayfaults