Several children were injured after a tree collapsed at the PGL outdoor activity centre on Marchants Hill in Tilford Road, Hindhead, Surrey, at around 1.40pm on Monday. Emergency services, including ambulance crews, police, and fire services, rushed to the scene in what has been described as a 'serious accident'.
Casualties and Medical Response
One casualty was flown to a London hospital with a severe leg injury via the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance. Six others were transported to Royal Surrey Hospital in Guildford with less serious wounds. A further eleven people were examined and treated at the location before being released.
South Central Ambulance Service confirmed that numerous ambulance teams attended the incident, alongside police and fire services. Crews from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance also responded.
Statement from PGL
The outdoor education provider said the safety of children, teachers, and staff was its priority after confirming an 'incident' at the park. A spokesperson stated: "A number of children were injured and are receiving medical treatment as required. Our thoughts are with everyone affected. The safety and wellbeing of the children, their teachers and our colleagues is our absolute priority. We are working closely with the schools involved and emergency services to support those affected and to ensure families receive timely information through their schools." The statement added that PGL is "committed to supporting everyone affected".
Political Response
Farnham and Bordon MP Gregory Stafford said he was aware of the "serious accident" involving several children. He further stated that there were a "number of injuries" but no reported fatalities. Stafford also mentioned that Surrey Police and Surrey Fire and Rescue Service were working in close collaboration with PGL. The MP expressed: "My thoughts are with the children involved, their families, and all those affected. I am grateful for the swift and professional response of our emergency services."
Background on PGL Marchants Hill
The activity centre, which offers climbing, zip-lining, and canoeing, is frequently a favoured destination for school excursions. In 2023, the Marchants Hill outdoor centre was fined £1 million after two children were left 'traumatised' when they got their fingers stuck between doors. The company was ordered to pay this sum after the children sustained "significant injuries" during a stay. The case was brought against PGL Travel Limited by Waverley Borough Council.
