BOY INJURED AFTER BEING TRAPPED IN INFLATABLE BALL AND BLOWN AWAY IN ‘FREAK GUST OF WIND'

A nine-year-old boy has been injured after he was flung in the air in an inflatable ball at a busy festival in front of horrified onlookers. An air ambulance rushed to the scene in Victoria Park in Southport, Merseyside.

According to Liverpool Echo, a cordon was installed after the incident.

According to witnesses interviewed by the Echo, the police and paramedics were present at the scene where over 100 independent businesses had set up stalls for the Southport Food and Drink Festival.

The festival, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and children's games, took a terrifying turn when the nine-year-old boy was involved in the terrifying incident with an inflatable 'zorb' ball.

Onlookers at the festival watched in horror as the inflatable ball suddenly flew into the air with the young boy inside.

Concerned onlookers swiftly rushed to the scene, while an announcement was made requesting the assistance of security personnel and St John's Ambulance staff.

Shortly after, they arrived and promptly administered emergency first aid.

Both the police and ambulance services, including an air ambulance, also rushed to the scene.

The child was subsequently transported to the hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

Police have reassured the public that his injuries are not life-threatening.

Speaking after today's accident at the Southport Food and Drink Festival, a spokesperson for Sefton Council said: "We can confirm that an Air Ambulance was called to Victoria Park, Southport this afternoon (Sunday June 4th) following an accident within the grounds.

"First aid responders from St Johns Ambulance reacted quickly to provide assistance to the person involved prior to the arrival of other emergency services.

"Following the incident a full health and safety inspection has been undertaken at the Southport Food & Drink Festival and the event remains open to the public.

"Our thoughts are with those involved in the accident and we wish them a full recovery."

The Police confirmed the incident and said: "We can confirm we are currently in attendance in Southport following reports that a child had been seriously injured.

"At around 2pm, it was reported that a nine-year-old boy had sustained injuries at an outdoor festival in Victoria Park, on Rotten Row.

"He has been taken to hospital by air ambulance for treatment to his injuries, which are not life threatening.

"Emergency services remain at the scene while the circumstances of this incident are established."

2023-06-04T15:27:18Z dg43tfdfdgfd