Investigations after four people injured in fairground disruption

An investigation has been launched after four people, including an 11-year-old girl, were taken to hospital after a ride malfunctioned at a country music show in south London.

The incident occurred on Saturday during the Lambeth Country Show in Brockwell Park at around 6.20pm (BST), according to Lambeth Council.

It was said that the investigation should “determine the cause of the disturbance”.

The fair’s rides will be closed on Sunday, the city council added.

On Sunday morning, one of the rides was seen covered with a tarpaulin, but it was not clear which ride had the malfunction.

The city council announced that emergency services arrived on site shortly after the incident and that the fair had already been closed.

The Metropolitan Police in Lambeth wrote on X (formerly Twitter) that the other injured were a man and a woman in their 40s and a man in his 50s.

The Met added that none of the injured were in critical condition.

Barriers have been set up and the occupational safety authority will be informed, police said.

Lambeth City Council said additional security checks would be carried out on all rides and attractions in the show.

“Safety is our top priority”

On Sunday, it was said that the four injured were being treated in hospital and continued: “Our thoughts are with them.”

“We thank the rescue workers for their quick intervention and the support they provide to the affected families.

“To allow for a thorough investigation, rides will be impacted by closures on the second day of the country show.

“The safety and well-being of our attendees remains our highest priority and we are committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.”

Brockwell Park is a popular green space near Brixton.

The incident occurred precisely on the 50th anniversary of the Lambeth Country Show, which, according to its website, is one of the “largest free family festivals in the UK”.

The show is scheduled to continue on Sunday from 1pm (BST).

A London Ambulance Service spokesman said four crews were on site, as well as members of the hazardous area response team and a rescue aircraft.

All four injured people were taken to “major trauma centers,” they added.