TRAGEDY struck at a Chiddingfold factory last week when a worker died following an accident involving industrial machinery. Surrey Police and ambulance staff were called to Naturediet Pet Foods in Pickhurst Road, Chiddingfold, just before 12-45 pm last Wednesday. On their arrival, ambulance crews took over from a trained first aider who was giving first aid to a 40- year-old man. Ambulance crews continued with resuscitation at the scene and in the ambulance while he was taken to the Royal County Surrey Hospital, but doctors lost the battle to save his life. On Monday, the man was formally identified as Marcus Snow, 40, from Milford Road, Elstead. Mr Snow, who ran the packing room at the factory began working for the company in September 2000, several months after moving to the area from Woking. His identity was confirmed by his long-term partner Andrew Tomes, who lived with Mr Snow in Elstead. "We were looking forward, with the recent law changes to having a civil partnership ceremony later this year," said Mr Tomes. They decided to book the ceremony while they were celebrating Mr Snow's 40th birthday on holiday in Los Angeles last August. The couple were looking forward to celebrating their 15th anniversary next week on February 15. "We were best friends and partners, and I feel half of me has gone. It feels so unfair that someone who was so enjoying his life has lost it at 40 years old. "I am still coming to terms with what has happened, with the help and support of our families, friends and colleagues." An investigation is under way in a joint operation by Surrey Police and the Health and Safety Executive. The inquest is expected to be opened and adjourned this week, following the conclusion of the post mortem held last Friday. A funeral service will be held for Mr Snow on Monday February 13 at 2 pm at Woking Crematorium. Naturediet Pet Foods was still unavailable for comment when The Herald went to press.