Multiple people injured and one hospitalised after fairground ride ‘failed and crashed’

A fairground ride in Birmingham has “collapsed”, with one person being taken to hospital and leaving several others injured.

Officers and paramedics rushed to the scene in Centenary Square on Thursday evening, after receiving “reports of an issue with one of the rides,” West Midlands Police said.

Police have reportedly sealed off an area around one of the attractions, with a cordon in place between the ice rink, the library and the Rep theatre.

One woman has been taken to hospital with non-serious injuries, whilst 11 other patients were assessed and discharged at the scene.

The ‘Star Flyer’ ride is reportedly the attraction that broke. Images show two gondolas on the 55m tall ride tangled up with each other.

West Midlands Fire Service said the ride “dropped to ground level whilst in operation”.

The fire service said: “We assisted ambulance colleagues with treatment of a number of casualties, whose injuries are not life-threatening.

“One casualty has been conveyed to hospital, with several others discharged on scene.

“We are not working on the rescue of any further casualties.”

The ride described as having a ‘bird’s-eye view’ by Danter Attractions, which runs the Christmas fairground.

“Come and ride one of the tallest rides around, on the mighty Star Flyer! This stunning ride will take riding high into the sky, offering panoramic views of wherever it is located,” a description reads.

More to follow…