The jury at Newcastle Crown Court heard Mr Thompson worked as a "highly experienced" lift engineer for more than 40 years, 17 of those working for Derwent Lift Services Ltd.

BBC: Death fall lift engineer was 'highly experienced'

Prosecutor Susan Hirst said the lift had been out of service for two days while the engineer waited for spare parts.

BBC: Death fall lift 'was unlocked'

An engineer has been cleared of a safety breach after a 92-year-old woman fell into a lift shaft and died.

BBC: Heathdale Rest Home in Whitley Bay