THE investigation into the cause of a mill accident in which a worker had all eight fingers sliced off is complete - but a decision has yet to be taken on whether anyone will face prosecution.

Health and safety officials have finished inquiries into the horrific incident at Sappi's Blackburn mill in which Harry Fishwick, 57, was injured.

A report will be compiled before the HSE will decide whether to take any action.

Mr Fishwick became the first British patient to have all his fingers sewn back on. He underwent 18 hours of micro surgery performed by a team of five surgeons while he was awake.

Mr Fishwick, of Chorley, will need regular physiotherapy for around two years.

Although he will not regain the grip in his fingers they will look normal and he will be able to grip between his thumb and forefinger.

It is understood his injuries were caused by the guillotine blade of a reel splitting machine which is used to cut giant rolls of paper at the Feniscowles plant.

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