An investigation has been launched into the mysterious death of a man at his brother-in-law’s company in Earlsfield.

David Churchill, 59, was working at Rayners Catering and Equipment Hire in Garratt Lane in July when staff found him collapsed on the floor.

One of the managers said: “There’s no witnesses whatsoever.

“They don’t know whether he slipped or had a heart attack.”

Gordon Rayner, who owns the company, was on holiday this week and was unable to comment.

Mr Churchill, who lived with his wife Elaine in Worcester Park, spent decades working for the family business, run by his brother-in-law.

The family are said to be devastated.

Mr Churchill’s death, on July 21, only came to light this week when the Battersea and Wandsworth Trades Union Council (BWTUC) was informed.

A spokesman for the union said: “BWTUC campaign for the health and safety of all workers and we would encourage any workers, particularly those at Rayners, to come forward if they have any concerns regarding the health and safety of their working conditions.”

According to the company, a postmortem examination indicated head and brain damage, possibly caused by Mr Churchill hitting his head.

The incident is being investigated by the council and an inquest date has not yet been set.

Rayners’ manager, who would not give his name, said: “It’s devastating. There’s a cloud still in the air. Time is a healer but it’s a very slow healer.”

To contact the BWTUC, call Nadine Houghton on 07946 172461 or email nadine@bwtuc.org.uk.

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