Oakwood trial

Andy Hine MBE · Oakwood trial

Theme park charged over girl's death

May 22 2008

Oakwood theme park accused of a fatal health and safety breach which allegedly caused the death of a schoolgirl is to stand trial at crown court.

Hayley Williams, 16, of Pontypool, plunged 100ft to her death from a white-knuckle ride as horrified visitors looked on.

It happened on the popular Hydro ride at the Oakwood theme park, in Narberth, West Wales, in April 2004.

Theme park boss Patrick Macnamara attended HaverfordWest magistrates’ court on behalf of Oakwood Leisure Limited.

The company is charged with the single offence of failing to ensure persons not in its employ were not exposed to risks to their health and safety.

Lawyers for the theme park argued for more time to review the case against it and asked for a six-week adjournment.

But magistrates rejected that request and said the company had already been given enough time.

Kevin Eliott, for the theme park, said it was not yet in a position to give a plea.

Magistrates then directed that the case proceed on the assumption of a not guilty plea.

They then declined jurisdiction of the case and adjourned proceedings until July 7 at which point the case will be formally committed to Swansea Crown Court for trial.

smiler

The news we been waiting for

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news...over-girl-s-death-91466-21300758/

bluea61

No mention over possible sentancing, I guess we'll know soon. Does anyone know what they usually do in these circumstances?

Magic

It seems to be such a rare offence that I can't find any other case. I would doubt that it would be custodial but a very severe fine. Not sure who or how the fine would be paid if Oakwood has new owners.

In these situations it's best not to speculate and leave it to the judge.

marshall hill