A Gloucestershire woman tragically died when an advertising board fell on her during a visit to Weston-super-Mare, ruled an accident by an inquest.
Weston-super-Mare: A tragic incident occurred when a woman from Gloucestershire died after an advertising board fell on her. Margaret Carter, 94, was visiting her favorite seaside town on October 28, 2021.
The heavy A-frame board was left out in strong winds and blew over, striking her as she walked along the promenade. Sadly, she had to wait three and a half hours for an ambulance in terrible weather.
Coroner Peter Harrowing ruled her death an accident. He noted that the sign’s placement was not intended to cause harm. However, Grand Pier Ltd was found guilty of health and safety failings and fined nearly £200,000.
Margaret was described as independent and full of life. Her family, including her son Michael, attended the inquest and shared how she was determined to live to 100.
On that fateful day, Margaret was enjoying a family outing when a gust of wind knocked the board over. The board was over two meters high and weighed about 100 kilograms.
Despite the efforts of off-duty paramedics and a police officer who provided first aid, the ambulance took too long to arrive. The family wants to thank those who helped her during that difficult time.
Witnesses said Margaret was in good spirits initially but her condition worsened as time passed. The weather also deteriorated, and staff from the Grand Pier tried to keep her warm and dry.
When the ambulance finally arrived, the crew was shocked at how long she had been waiting. Margaret was taken to Southmead Hospital but sadly passed away less than an hour after her arrival.
The coroner noted that her injuries led to heart failure. The A-frame board that struck her was not tethered, as that would violate council rules. Wind speeds that day reached up to 39 mph, classified as gale force.
After the incident, the council seized the board and destroyed it. Grand Pier Ltd has since engaged a health and safety expert to improve their practices.
Mr. Harrowing expressed his condolences to Margaret’s family and noted that measures have been taken to prevent future incidents. The family is relieved that steps are being made to enhance safety.
