Elizabeth Palmby envisioned a delightful outing – a visit to Jeremy Clarkson’s Farmer’s Dog pub, fueled by her enjoyment of his popular show. Instead, a simple trip transformed into a harrowing experience, leaving her with lasting physical and emotional scars.
The incident occurred in the pub’s car park, a field temporarily covered with metal sheets to combat muddy conditions. Heavy overnight rain had turned the area treacherous, and the sheets, unsecured and shifting, presented a hidden danger. As Elizabeth walked back to her car, carrying boxes of farm-fresh eggs, her foot caught on an upturned sheet, sending her tumbling.
The fall wasn’t merely a stumble; it was a violent impact. Instinctively throwing out her hand to break her fall, she sliced it open on the ‘razor sharp’ metal, while simultaneously breaking ribs. The initial shock gave way to agonizing pain and a terrifying realization of the extent of her injuries.
What followed was a series of hospital visits and surgical procedures. Doctors painstakingly removed metal fragments embedded in her hand, and later reconstructed the deep, jagged wound with ten stitches. A chest x-ray revealed the broken ribs, adding to her suffering. The surgeon even offered to let her keep the extracted metal as a grim souvenir.
Elizabeth and her husband, a former ambulance worker, reported the accident and even received a complimentary meal and replacement eggs from the pub. However, a return visit revealed that the dangerous conditions remained unchanged – no warning signs, no secured metal sheets, just the same potential for disaster.
Despite repeated attempts to contact Clarkson directly, highlighting the ongoing hazard, she received no response. Concerned for the safety of others, particularly the vulnerable, she felt compelled to take further action. She couldn’t bear the thought of another person suffering a similar fate.
Planning permission for a permanent car park surface has since been approved, but the work is contingent on a detailed drainage plan. Until then, the temporary metal coverings remain in place, continuing to pose a risk. Elizabeth insists the fix is needed immediately, not months down the line.
Feeling “intimidated” but resolute, Elizabeth has initiated legal proceedings, seeking compensation for her injuries and advocating for improved safety measures. Her case underscores a critical point: even public figures are accountable for maintaining safe environments on their properties.
The incident at the Farmer’s Dog pub is a stark reminder of the potential consequences of neglecting safety precautions. Elizabeth Palmby’s ‘fun’ day out became a painful lesson, and her determination to prevent similar incidents serves as a powerful call for immediate action.
Ironically, just days before Elizabeth’s story gained attention, another member of the Clarkson’s Farm team, Harriet Cowan, suffered a serious injury – losing the end of her finger in a farming accident. While a separate incident, it highlights the inherent risks associated with the world Clarkson portrays, and the potential for unforeseen harm.
