A four-year-old girl has tragically died at Waterworld in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, prompting a full health and safety investigation. Emergency services were called to the aqua park at 4.20pm yesterday after the youngster was found in a critical condition in the Lagoon area.
Lifeguards, staff and paramedics treated the girl at the poolside before she was taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital. Despite the best efforts of hospital staff, the child, who has not been identified, died a short time later.
Stoke-on-Trent City Council has confirmed its environmental health team is working with police and the privately-run venue to investigate the circumstances. A police car has remained outside the attraction, which is closed today.
Stoke-on-Trent Lord Mayor Steve Watkins said: 'We were all devastated to hear of the death of a four-year-old girl at Waterworld. This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts are with her family and loved ones.'
West Midlands Ambulance Service said crews arrived to find staff and bystanders performing CPR. A spokesperson said: 'Tragically, despite the best efforts of everyone, nothing could be done to save the little girl.'
Waterworld bosses said they are 'in shock' and have closed the park out of respect. Detective Chief Inspector Lucy Maskew of Staffordshire Police urged the public not to speculate, adding: 'We are now making enquiries and looking to establish the circumstances.'
