Netley Marsh fairground horror as teen suffers 'life-changing' injuries on ride

A teenage girl has suffered potentially life-changing injuries to her head while on a ride at a fair.

Police have said the 18-year-old was taken to hospital after the incident at Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show at around 10.50pm on Saturday. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said officers were liaising with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

One witness at the scene, a woman, detailed how she helped administer first aid to the teenager, and said there had been "shock and panic". The woman, who did not wish to be identified, said she had not initially realised the severity of what had happened.

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They said: "One of the girl's friends came down and said how serious it was and some of us offered assistance. It's very shocking it could happen on a fairground ride that young children go on. This must never happen again."

An HSE spokesperson said the incident was "local authority-enforced and with Hampshire police".

A post on the fair's Facebook page said on Sunday: "Good morning from day three of the show. Despite what you may have read or seen online, we are open and look forward to seeing you all!"

Owner Charles Cole told the Daily Echo he "sympathises" with the teen and her family, and said her hair got trapped on the Fun House ride last night.

Speaking earlier today, Mr Cole said the popular walk-on ride had been subject to its daily checks and paperwork, before adding: "Approximately 50 people had been on the ride before the 18-year-old, and there were no issues.

"The ride is 20 years old but it had been tested that day. This was a freak accident. Somehow, the girl’s hair got caught and she could not grab on to the handrails.

“Nobody wants to hurt anyone, and we are a family business. Last night was very upsetting, especially for the man who owns the ride. Safety is our priority, and we sympathise with the girl and her parents."

An investigation has been launched and the ride is closed.

The organisers of Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show have been approached for comment.