STONE wholesaler McMarmilloyd, based in Great Bedwyn, has denied failing to ensure the safety of its employees.

The company entered not guilty pleas to two charges brought under the Health and Safety at Work Act at Kennet Magistrates' Court in Devizes last Thursday.

The first charge is that prior to March 17 2001 the company failed to make suitable and sufficient assessment of the safety of its employees while they lifted and moved slabs of marble while using mechanical equipment.

The second charge is that the company did not ensure the safety of employee Melvin Baker who was engaged in lifting and moving slabs of marble by using mechanical equipment.

The court heard that Mr Baker was injured when marble slabs fell on him.

The prosecution is being brought by Kennet District Council.

The case was adjourned for a pre-trial review to be held at Salisbury Magistrates' Court on April 28.