Brain damage victim awarded seven-figure compensation

A boatyard worker who suffered life-changing injuries whilst on duty has been awarded a £7.2 million personal injury settlement.

In September 2006, 26-year-old Kevin Cleightonhills tragically suffered severe brain damage when he was struck by a falling gantry at the Bembridge Outboards boatyard on the Isle of Wight, off the south coast of England.

As Mr Cleightonhills attempted to store a boat, the gantry struck him across the head, and doctors worried that he had less than a five per cent chance of surviving the severe impact.  Consequently, the accident left him requiring 24-hour medical care and attention and unable to seek employment.

After extensive surgery on the affected area, in which Mr Cleightonhills' forehead was replaced by a titanium plate, his family's legal team sought advice on filing a personal injury claim. And this week Judge Gary Burrell QC awarded a £7.2 million compensation package in Mr Cleightonhills' "best interests".

"This settlement for Kevin provides the reassurance that he will receive care for the rest of his life and is a case that shows what can be achieved when parties work together," added Mr Cleightonhills' solicitor.

According to local press, the compensation award is likely to be spent on the cost of providing round-the-clock support for Mr Cleightonhills, as he will never be able to live independently.