Drayton Manor accident: Girl dies after tragedy on Splash Canyon ride

An 11-year-old girl has died after falling off a ride at the Drayton Manor theme park. Emergency services were called following a "serious incident" on the Splash Canyon ride at the popular theme park in Tamworth, Staffordshire.

The girl was pulled form the water and airlifted to Birmingham Children's Hospital. West Midlands Ambulance Service has now confirmed the girl died form her injuries.

The incident resulted in the ride, which as a minimum height restriction of 0.9 metres (2ft, 9ins), being closed. The girl was said to have been on a school trip at the time and her parents have been informed.

George Bryan, director of Drayton Manor Theme Park, said he is "truly shocked and devastated" by the girl's death.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "An 11-year-old girl has died following an incident at Drayton Manor Theme Park this afternoon [9 May].

"West Midlands Ambulance Service was called to reports of a patient who had fallen into water at 2.18pm.

"An ambulance, a senior paramedic officer, a paramedic area support officer, a rapid response paramedic, a community first responder and the Midlands Air Ambulance from Staffordshire, with a MERIT trauma doctor on board, were sent to the scene. The first resource was on scene within seven minutes.

"On arrival, crews discovered a girl with serious injuries who had been rescued from the water by park staff.

"Ambulance staff administered advanced life support before the girl was flown to Birmingham Children's Hospital with the doctor continuing treatment en-route.

"Unfortunately, shortly after arrival at hospital it became apparent nothing could be done to save her and she was confirmed deceased.

Superintendent Carl Ratcliffe, of Staffordshire Police, said: "Specially-trained officers are supporting the girl's family at this difficult time. Our thoughts are very much with her family and friends following this tragic incident."

Police added the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) have been informed of the incident.