Planet Fun organisers have spoken out after an incident on the ‘Star Flyer’ ride on Saturday (24 July) when a number of people including children, were injured. Organisers say the incident was caused by teenagers, and plan that the event in Carrickfergus will go ahead.
In a statement posted on social media late on Saturday night, a spokesperson for Planet Fun said:
“Following a preliminary investigation by the Health & Safety Executive planet fun have been cleared to reopen and it is confirmed the equipment has not got any mechanical defects.
“We will however be keeping the Star Flyer closed pending further safety checks and investigation.
“The incident tonight was caused by misuse of equipment by the behaviour of several teenagers on the attraction and is to be further investigated by the PSNI.
“The swift actions by our staff to terminate the ride prevented further injuries.
“At this time we cannot comment any further on the incident but would extend our thoughts and best wishes to the people who were injured.”
One person commented on social media:
“Terrible that two idiots got on ride in Planet Fun, started fighting with each other, causing an accident and injuries to people enjoying themselves. Disgraceful what they done.”
The Star Flyer ride is described on the company’s social media page as ‘the newest sensation in the world of Tower rides. It is a unique attraction that appeals to both young and old, the adventurous and not so adventurous. While most tower attractions seem to fizzle out after time the Star Flyer keeps the excitement going.’
The post continues: ‘To ride, guests are seated in a double seat next to their friend or partner, the seat is deep walled and fitted with double seat belts that include an 'in between the leg harness' that can only be unlocked by the operator.
‘The motion of the StarFlyer is similar to the ChairFlyer type of ride that has been around for decades, except with one difference - Altitude.
‘The Star Flyer spins like a normal Chainflyer but also races up to a top as it is spinning! Then are treated to a series of ups and downs as they spin backwards and forwards. A truly exhilarating experience from 60 metres in the air!’
Immediately following the incident yesterday, it was widely first reported that the ride had collapsed, however organisers said in another statement released earlier yesterday evening, “At no stage did our ride collapse”.
Health Minister Robin Swann commended the emergency response teams following the incident and sent wished those involved a speedy recovery.
“Our blue light services have responded to an incident tonight at a funfair in Carrick, it was reported that a ride at the fair collapsed and there were several casualties,” he said.
“A number of people, including children, were taken to hospital and thankfully none have life threatening injuries.
“My thoughts are with all who have been injured and affected by this incident.
“I wish everyone a speedy recovery, and I want to sincerely thank the ambulance, paramedics and fire crews that responded so rapidly to what could have been something more tragic.”
Police Service of Northern Ireland have been assisting the Health & Safety Executive as they conduct their enquiries and have appealed for any witnesses who have not yet spoken to them, to come forward.
Chief Inspector Stephen Murray said:
"We received a number of calls shortly after 5:55pm last night (Saturday, 24 July) in relation to an incident involving an amusement ride at a funfair in Carrickfergus and that a number of people had been injured.
"Our officers responded to these calls and attended the scene, assisting emergency service colleagues from Northern Ireland Ambulance Service and Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service.
"We are continuing today to assist the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland as they conduct their enquiries. We are also making enquiries and we would ask anyone who was at the scene last night, and who has not yet spoken to our officers, to call us on 101 and quote reference number 1607 of 24/07/21.”