The health and safety regulator has launched an official probe into a ride malfunction at a south London community event which left four people injured.
An 11-year-old girl was among those injured when a ride malfunctioned at the Lambeth Country Show in south London’s Brockwell Park on June 8, with her mother saying she was left “traumatised”.
Now the Health and Safety Executive has confirmed that it is investigating, with experts “forensically” examining the “Froggit” ride at a specialist lab to uncover the cause of the malfunction.
HSE inspector Stacey Gamwell said: “We will continue to thoroughly investigate what happened and determine whether there were any breaches of health and safety law at the time of this incident.
“Once we have finished our investigation, a decision will then be made on whether formal enforcement is required in line with our enforcement policy.
“We remain in contact with those affected by the ride’s malfunction and will keep them updated throughout our investigation.”
Among those injured was Silvana-Rose Douglas, 11, from Bromley, who had been enjoying a day out with her grandfather.
Speaking to the Standard previously, her mother Loredana Musumeci told how the youngster suffered injuries to her legs, pelvis and lower back while her grandfather was left concussed.
“She doesn't sleep, she has flashbacks,” she said of her daughter. “It's a lot for a little girl to deal with.”
Two other people who were injured, a man and a woman in their 40s, were both taken to hospital for “potentially life-threatening injuries".
The Standard has contacted Lambeth Council for comment.
In a previous statement, a spokesperson thanked the emergency services for their response and said: “A thorough investigation is being conducted to determine the cause of the malfunction.”
The Lambeth Country Show is a popular annual event which typically takes place over a weekend in June or July and attracts tens of thousands of visitors.
Known for its unique blend of urban and rural activities, it offers a wide range of attractions and entertainment for people of all ages including live music, dance and theatre performances.
