Council's Negligence Blamed for Tragic Death of 12-Year-Old Girl in Park Accident
The heartbroken father of a 12-year-old girl who died while playing on a rope swing has declared that his daughter would still be alive if the council had properly performed its duties. Brooke Wiggins tragically lost her life on November 9, 2024, in Banstead, Surrey, just days before she would have celebrated her 13th birthday.
Fatal Incident and Council's Inspection Failures
During proceedings at South London Coroner's Court, it was revealed that Brooke sustained fatal injuries when a tree branch suddenly broke and struck her as she enjoyed the rope swing with friends. The tree in question was under the maintenance responsibility of Surrey County Council.
The inquest heard critical evidence regarding the council's inspection schedule. The tree had last been inspected in May 2022, with a follow-up re-inspection due in May 2024. However, this crucial safety check did not occur as planned, leaving the hazardous condition undetected.
Legal Arguments and Safety Policy Violations
Acting on behalf of Mr. Wiggins, Christian Weaver presented a compelling argument that had the inspections been carried out appropriately, the rope swing would have been removed by the council in accordance with their established policy. Gordon Carson of the Health and Safety Executive confirmed to the hearing that the council's official policy mandates the removal of rope swings from trees within a strict seven-day timeframe.
In a poignant statement read by Assistant Coroner Ivor Collett, Brooke's father, Lee Wiggins, expressed his profound grief and frustration. "Only 12 years old, and now she's gone forever. When I think of her, I ask myself, 'why my darling Brooke?'" he said. Mr. Wiggins emphasized, "If only people had done their job properly... the one thing they are paid to do, and did it properly, Brooke would still be here."
Remembering Brooke's Vibrant Spirit
Mr. Wiggins fondly remembered his daughter as an "amazing young woman" who was exceptionally "bright" and "very funny." He added, "I am devastated that my baby girl has been taken from me. She packed so much into her short life."
Brooke's mother, Claire Etherington, also shared a heartfelt statement read by Mr. Collett, describing her as a "beautiful, fun, caring and loving girl" with "the most incredible way of lighting up every room." She noted that Brooke was a "smart girl with so much potential" who enjoyed dancing, art, singing, photography, and creative self-expression. "We will always wonder what she would have gone on to achieve in her life," her mother lamented.
Council's Response and Ongoing Inquest
Representatives for Surrey County Council countered by suggesting that expert evidence indicated an inspection might not have led to a "materially different outcome." This assertion has been met with skepticism given the clear policy violations and missed inspection deadlines.
The inquest continues as authorities seek to determine the full extent of responsibility and ensure such a preventable tragedy does not occur again. The case highlights critical issues of public safety, local government accountability, and the devastating consequences of bureaucratic failures.
