Laura Simmons was spraying weed killer along fence lines while riding an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) when the incident occurred on 2 June 2023 at a farm in Charlton Abbots near Cheltenham.
The 22-year-old suffered fatal spine injuries when the overloaded quad bike overturned. She was found dead by a jogger several hours later.
Following an investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), Toby Baxter of Chedworth pleaded guilty to breaching regulation 2(1) and 3(1) of the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974.
Baxter was subsequently fined £1,000 and ordered to pay £6,161.72 in costs at a hearing at Cheltenham Magistrates Court on 29 April 2025.
The HSE found that the ATV overturned due to an overloaded front rack, uneven tyre pressure, unstable load from lack of baffles in the spray tank and the potential for the spray lance to be used during movement.
The investigation also revealed that Baxter had failed to provide suitable equipment, ensure pre-use checks were conducted, implement a system to fill the spray tank, formally train his employees and properly assess the risks.
The HSE emphasised that safety checks for ATVs must include checking tyre pressures, which are crucial for vehicle stability, as even a small pressure difference can cause dangerous control problems.
Tribute paid
Simmons’ mother paid tribute to her daughter after the ruling, describing her as “lively, caring and adventurous”.
“She was a lively person who loved animals, was very caring, was a hard worker, was plucky, intelligent, practical, adventurous and she had a beautiful smile,” her mother added.
HSE inspector Emily O’Neill described the circumstances as tragic and criticised Baxter for his previous characterisation of the event.
“A much-loved young woman has lost her life [and] it could have easily been avoided with the right controls in place,” O’Neill said.
“We found several failures, so Mr Baxter’s previous suggestion that Laura was a victim of ‘unfortunate circumstances’ is, frankly, offensive.
“This prosecution highlights ongoing safety concerns in the agricultural sector, which remains one of Britain’s most dangerous industries for workers. Proper equipment, training and risk assessment are essential to protect workers.”
The prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Arfaq Nabi and supported by paralegal officer Rebecca Foreman.
