BREAKING: Fairground Worker Killed in Tragic Accident at Whitley Bay’s Link Fair.

By James Murray-Hodcroft / The Hodlines

23rd August 2025

A young fairground worker has died in a tragic accident at Whitley Bay’s Link Fair this afternoon, prompting the immediate closure of the event.

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 3:10pm after reports that a worker had been struck by the Experience ride. The Great North Air Ambulance attended but left without carrying any casualties, with witnesses confirming the incident resulted in an instant fatality.

Eyewitnesses said the victim, believed to be around 20 years old, was fatally injured after entering the platform area of the ride. Local resident Kirsty Newton, who was arriving at the fairground as the tragedy unfolded, told reporters: “A young lad, about 20, ran onto the platform to grab his backpack. The ride swung back round and hit him. It was instant.”

Northumbria Police and paramedics quickly secured the scene. Officers have since confirmed that the fair will remain closed while investigations are carried out. Members of the public were evacuated from the site, and barriers have been placed around the cordoned area.

The accident has sent shockwaves through the local community. The Link Fair, a popular summer attraction in Whitley Bay, had been drawing large crowds ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend. Many families were already on site when the incident occurred, with some reporting distress at witnessing emergency services rush to the ride.

Authorities have not yet formally identified the deceased, and no official statement has been issued by the operators of the fair. Health and Safety Executive inspectors are expected to attend as part of the inquiry into how the tragedy happened. Meanwhile, thoughts are with the victim’s family, friends, and those who witnessed the incident.

This is an emerging story. Further updates are expected from police and local authorities in due course.