A MAN injured in a huge explosion at his workplace says he is still in torment, 20 months after receiving horrific injuries.
Trevor Whalley suffered severe burns to his head, stomach and arms just six days after starting work at a recycling firm.
Almost two years on, he says he is still counting the cost to his health – and to his finances – of that fateful day.
Mr Whalley, 32, was one of eight people who were taken to hospital after the blast in October 2011 at the eReco recycling unit on the Hobbs Industrial Estate in Newchapel.
He spent about three months in hospital, including weeks in intensive care, and has needed a series of skin grafts.
Speaking to the Courier & Observer this week from his home in Salisbury Road, Godstone, he said: "I remember a big explosion and then a ball of flame. The next thing I knew I was waking up about six weeks later, lying badly injured in a hospital in Brighton.
"When I woke up I had a mixture of total shock and anger. I must have taken the full brunt of the blast. I could not talk properly because I'd had an operation on my windpipe."
His greatest obstacle now is trying to overcome the psychological barriers.
Mr Whalley said: "I am having to come to terms with the fact that my physical treatment has gone just about as far as it can.
"I suffered post-traumatic stress disorder.
"I have started counselling sessions, which have been useful.
"Not working and being at home a lot does not help because I have too much time to think."
He is taking a home tuition course in art animation and computer graphics to help keep himself occupied, whilst also indulging in his hobby of photography.
But plans to marry his partner, 30-year-old Laura Roe this summer, have been put on hold.
He said: "No financial settlement has yet been resolved with insurers so we are in a bit of a financial pickle.
"Laura stuck by me in a very difficult time. The whole thing has brought us even closer together."
The Health and Safety Executive has carried out a thorough investigation into the incident, but has still not issued a report into the cause of the blast.
