HSE take fair ride into Buxton lab for testing after 14 injured

HSE issued a Notice to Leave Undisturbed on the Wacky Worm ride at Coney Beach, Porthcawl, after thirteen children and an adult were injured in the incident at around 5.30 pm on Wednesday 13 August.

No one was seriously hurt but ‘a number of people’ required hospital treatment, said HSE.

As well as inspecting the ride, HSE experts are now sifting through witness accounts and footage taken on the day of the incident.

Simon Chilcott, principal inspector at HSE, said: “The investigation is likely to take some time, but once it is complete, a decision will be made on what further action should be taken.”

Coney Beach Fair dates back to more than 100 years but will be closing in October. Photograph: Facebook

According to Sky News, images taken at the scene and footage posted on social media appeared to show part of the children's rollercoaster off the track and adults helping youngsters off the ride.

Other rides at the park were inspected and one nearby ride, the Mini Jet Ride, was also issued with a prohibition notice, but has been subsequently repaired after safety issues were found.

Coney Beach Fair which dates back more than 100 years, will permanently close on 4 October 2025, following a decision made before the incident.

HSE is also investigating an incident at a funhouse at Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show. An 18 year old woman was injured on the Showtime funhouse on 26 July, with HSE issuing an appeal for any videos or photos of the incident.

Nine rides at a Devon theme park were stopped after a routine inspection by the Health and HSE in June. Woodlands Family Theme Park was unable to provide sufficient assurance that the rides had undergone valid safety checks, but was able to rectify the issues quickly.