ES News email The latest headlines in your inbox twice a day Monday - Friday plus breaking news updates Enter your email address Continue Please enter an email address Email address is invalid Fill out this field Email address is invalid You already have an account. Please log in Register with your social account or click here to log in I would like to receive lunchtime headlines Monday - Friday plus breaking news alerts, by email Update newsletter preferences

A man has died after his head became trapped in a seat at a Vue cinema in Birmingham.

His suffered a cardiac arrest after his head was crushed by an electric footrest as he reportedly tried to retrieve his phone.

The freak accident is said to have occurred when the man dropped his phone between the new Gold Class seats in one of the auditoriums.

He is believed to have become trapped when the seat’s footrest clamped down on his head.

The man became panicked as he tried to free himself, according to Birmingham Live.

The local new site reported that the footrest was eventually broken off but the man was left with serious injuries.

A source said: "He bent down to look for his phone. At this point the leg-rest was in an upright position.

“But as he stuck his head underneath to have a look, the footrest clamped down onto his head.

“He was stuck and panicking. His partner and staff tried to free him but couldn’t."

The man suffered a cardiac arrest and, after paramedics managed to restart his heart, he was rushed to hospital, West Midlands Ambulance Service said.

A spokeswoman for Vue confirmed the company is investigating.

She said: “Following an incident which took place on Friday, March 9 at our Birmingham cinema, we can confirm that a customer was taken to hospital that evening.

“We are saddened to learn that he passed away on Friday March 16.

“A full investigation into the nature of the incident is ongoing. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family who have our full support and assistance.”