Winter Wonderland ride closed after three people thrown from carriage
A ride at Winter Wonderland in Cardiff has been closed to the public after three people were thrown from a carriage.
On Saturday (26 November), at around 5:15pm, three people were thrown off the Ice Skater Sizzler ride, inflicting 'serious injuries', according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
One person remains in hospital and the ride has been closed to the public while investigations are carried out.
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A spokesperson for watchdog HSE said: "HSE is investigating reports of serious injuries on a ride at Winter Wonderland in Cardiff.
"Three people were thrown from the ride. One currently remains in hospital and is being treated for their injuries."
Laura Rogers, from Pontypridd, was visiting Winter Wonderland with her family when she witnessed the incident unfold.
"We were playing on the games opposite and we heard a bit of commotion," the 29-year-old told WalesOnline.
"As we looked over we saw all the security running around all frantic. We noticed they rushed to a cabin. They then left with some sort of medical bag.
"As they rushed past us we followed. Then I realised there was an accident on the ride.
"Then they pulled one railing off on the side. I then noticed a lady or girl on the side pinned against it."
She continued: "As I walked on I noticed another girl that looked unconscious. There were shoes on the floor that seemed to be flown off during this time.
"I stood for a little while and then I noticed one of the security staff talking to my mother-in-law.
"He told her that the bars had flung open... It was shocking to see for my five-year-old daughter who goes on this ride – also for everyone that had to witness it happening when they only went out for a good time."
Seren McCallum-Weller was at the theme park celebrating her 13th birthday with her family when she heard a 'massive bang'.
She said: "I was on the Ice Skater ride with my cousin. We were just having a fun time then we suddenly heard a massive bang.
"I didn't know what it was. We looked behind us and the ride was still going and then we saw a lady on the floor.
"We then saw a second lady who was pushed into the railings and the railings had moved. She was lodged in between the ride and the railings.
"I think a third lady was also thrown into the railings. There were a few children on the ride who were no older than 11 or 12."
A spokesperson for Cardiff’s Winter Wonderland said: "We are aware of an incident that occurred on the Ice Skater ride at Cardiff's Winter Wonderland on the evening of Saturday, November 26.
"Safety is always a priority for us and a full investigation into the incident is now taking place.
"We, as the event organisers, are working closely with the ride owner/operator and all relevant organisations to investigate. The ride will remain closed during this time."
Topics: UK News
Jake Massey