Investigation launched into 'sculpture' deaths

An investigation has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive and Durham Police into the deaths of two women who were killed when an inflatable sculpture broke free of its moorings.

The accident happened at Riverside Park in Chester-le-Street on Sunday afternoon. The 'Dreamscape' inflatable sculpture, created by artist Maurice Agis, broke its moorings and rose about 30 feet in the air, before colliding with a post supporting a CCTV camera, which brought it to the ground.

It is believed that up to 30 people were inside the inflatable, which features several different inflated rooms, constructed out of translucent PVC sheets, which are connected by tunnels, allowing the public to walk around inside.

A 68-year-old woman from Seaham and a 38-year-old woman from Chester-le-Street were both killed in the accident.

A three-year-old girl from Langley Park remains in a serious condition in Newcastle General Hospital.

Thirteen people - both children and adults - were injured.

The 'Dreamscape' artwork has featured at venues around the world and recently appeared on the Derren Brown television show.

Mr Agis is understood to have witnessed the accident and is reported to be "very distressed".

Police have not ruled out foul play as the cause of the incident. It has been reported that a specialist engineer has been brought in to examine the structure's design, while the deflated structure, ropes and anchor pins have been taken by police.

Police have appealed for anyone with film footage of the incident or any information to contact: 0845 6060 365.

A trauma counselling service has also been established for members of the public affected by the incident. The number is: 0800 068 5155.

(KMcA/SP)