MoD told to tackle risks after training deaths

The three men died after falling ill during gruelling SAS selection training on the highest mountain in south Wales during the hottest days of the year.

A joint Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the deaths is continuing.

But the HSE has issued a notice ordering the MoD to take action to deal with the potentially fatal risks such top flight selection processes pose to those taking part.

“HSE has issued a Crown Improvement Notice on the Ministry of Defence following the deaths of three Army reservists while on selection tests on the Brecon Beacons in July,” a spokesman said.

“The notice requires the Ministry to take action to deal with risks arising from its military selection exercises. HSE continues to investigate the deaths, supporting Dyfed Powys Police which is leading the investigation.”

Edward John Maher, 31, Craig John Roberts, 24, and James Dunsby, 31, all died as a result of taking part in the SAS selection.

A number of other soldiers taking part in the programme on the day also collapsed and needed medical attention.

It is thought the group involved were carrying out an exercise known as the “Fan Dance”.

It requires a soldier carrying a weighted pack and rifle to march up and down 2,900ft high Pen y Fan mountain, then do it again in reverse, against the clock.

On the day in question, July 13, temperatures hit 29.5C, and emergency crews were called after reports six soldiers had collapsed suffering heat exhaustion.

Witnesses said they had seen soldiers looking exhausted and making a desperate plea for water.

The deaths triggered a series of investigations which are ongoing.

A separate fact-finding mission by a coroner was also launched, with human rights legislation being used to see whether the soldiers should have been better protected.

The MoD said: “As the incident is still subject to a police and MoD investigation, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”