The family of a Dundee council worker who was engulfed by flames after drilling through an underground electrical cable is maintaining an anxious vigil at his hospital bedside.
Brian Peacock, 54, was seriously injured in the incident on Tuesday.
Witnesses said he was thrown in the air and his clothing burst into flames after drilling through the underground cable.
He struck a wall, fell to the ground and was seen rolling around as he fought to put out his burning clothes.
Neighbours who rushed to his aid said he was in a state of shock following the incident and had been screaming in agony.
Fire crews, police and ambulance personnel, as well as staff from Scottish and Southern Electric, rushed to the scene.
Mr Peacock was rushed to Ninewells Hospital by ambulance, where he remains in a serious condition.
It is understood he suffered extensive burns in the accident.
The blacksmith, who works for Dundee City Council’s works department, had been replacing metal railings outside the flats.
Engineers from Scottish and Southern Energy were called out to the scene to make the electricity supply safe following the accident.
Mr Peacock, a well-known figure in amateur football circles due to his involvement with Douglas Lads Club, lives in Charleston with his wife Jennifer.
The couple have two daughters, Lana and Adele.
Neighbours said they had no idea Mr Peacock had been involved in the horrific accident, which is being investigated by the Health and Safety Executive.
One said: “We hadn’t heard anything about it. The family are nice but quite quiet and keep themselves to themselves.
“His car hasn’t been there for a couple of days, it must still be at his work.
“I hope he’s ok.”
Another said: “I saw a works van pull up and someone go up to the door on Wednesday. They must have been delivering a card.”
Mr Peacock’s family declined to comment.
