The Big Dipper is probably one of Blackpool Pleasure Beach’s most famed and popular rides, but it is thought the fairground is likely to face a large number of compensation claims after the rollercoaster’s two cars collided and injured almost everyone on board.

The accident occurred on the 11th of August at 7.45 pm when one car ran into the other at a height of 20 feet, causing those onboard to suffer injuries to their necks, faces and backs, including cuts, whiplash and broken bones.

At its highest point, the Big Dipper stretches up to 60 feet, and the carriages travel at a maximum speed of 35 miles per hour. Although it was fortunate that neither car was rammed off the tracks, enough damage was done that 21 people had to be taken to Blackpool Victoria hospital, whilst a further 18, described as “the walking wounded”, were helped down by staff and emergency services. Only 11 people managed to escape the ride unharmed.

A combination of fire fighters, paramedics and a specialist rope crew used an array of ladders, ropes, stretchers, spine boards and neck collars to move the panicked passengers to safety, including two people who had become physically trapped. Of those taken to hospital, all except one were later discharged. The remaining patient is a 25 year old man who may require surgery to wounds sustained on his face.

An investigation is being carried out by the Health and Safety Executive to find out what exactly went wrong, but it is currently believed that due to a mechanical or technical failure, one carriage became stuck on the track and was hit by the other carriage coming up behind it. Although the Big Dipper itself has been closed whilst the investigation is ongoing, the rest of the Pleasure Beach continues as normal.