Funfair ride injuries ‘no longer life-threatening’

A man and woman who were taken to hospital after a funfair ride malfunctioned at a country show are no longer believed to be in a life-threatening condition, police have said.

The Metropolitan Police previously said the pair, both in their 40s, suffered life-threatening injuries following the incident at the Lambeth Country Show in Brockwell Park, south London, on Saturday.

They remain in hospital.

A man in his 50s and an 11-year-old girl were also both taken to hospital, but have since been discharged.

The Met and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating the incident.

The problem occurred during the first day of the free event.

A ride topped with a giant frog was among those which could be seen behind tall black fencing on Sunday.

Signs saying “Apologies for any inconvenience, this ride will not open today” were pinned to wire fencing which surrounded the fairground area.

Disappointed visitors of all ages could be seen reading the sign and talking to a fairground worker, who told them all the rides were shut, before heading off to enjoy other attractions at the event.

A spokesman from Lambeth Council said on Sunday: “Very sadly a funfair ride at the country show malfunctioned yesterday evening, injuring four people.

“They are being cared for in hospital and our thoughts are with them.

“We thank the emergency services for their swift response at the country show yesterday and for the support they are providing to the affected families.

“Following this incident, and to allow a full investigation, funfair rides at the show will be impacted by closures for the second day of the country show.”

The council-organised show has been running as a free community event in Brockwell Park since 1974.

Annually it attracts more than 120,000 people across the weekend.