A tree surgeon is lucky to be alive after slashing his face with a chainsaw.
Mark Hamer, 45, was chopping branches when he lost control of the blade – accidentally cutting his face and nose
A helicopter was called to airlift Mark from the industrial estate in Tenby, West Wales, where he had been clearing trees.
He was airlifted to Morriston Hospital, Swansea, where he was treated for serious facial injuries.
Mark is a former coach of Neyland RFC – he played scrum-half for them and only recently retired.
Club’s committee member Rodney Chamberlain said: “Mark is a very lucky boy.
“Our thoughts are also with the family who have been through a very traumatic experience.”
His wife Tracy, who was on the way to a hen weekend, rushed to his bedside after hearing what had happened.
She said: “I’m delighted to say that Mark is doing really well and is on the mend and hopes to be home soon.
“Myself and Mark would like to thank everyone for their kind wishes and support over the last few days.”
Dyfed-Powys Police attended the scene and they are now working with the Health and Safety Executive to establish what happened.
A HSE spokesman said: “The Health and Safety Executive are investigating this incident. We’re unable to comment further while inquiries are continuing.”
Mark was working for Birch Utilities. The company said it did not wish to comment on the incident while investigations are still ongoing.
