A tragic incident at Pontins Brean Sands Holiday Park in Somerset, which led to the death of a 68-year-old woman and injured several others, has resulted in corporate manslaughter charges against the company that owns the park.

Wendy Jones died in August 2019 when ducting collapsed inside the holiday venue. Following a thorough and complex investigation by Avon and Somerset Police and Somerset Council, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has now authorised multiple charges.

Charges Announced

The CPS confirmed the following charges in connection with the incident:

• Britannia Jinky Jersey Ltd, the parent company of Pontins, is charged with corporate manslaughter under the Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007.
• Stephen Bennison, 58, from Farington, Lancashire, faces charges of failing to discharge general health and safety duties under Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

Both defendants are scheduled to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on 6 May 2025.

Complex Investigation

Detective Superintendent Roger Doxsey, who led the investigation, described the case as “complex,” citing extensive collaboration between police and local council officers.

A CPS spokesperson said:

“The charges follow a detailed and thorough review of the evidence provided by Avon and Somerset Police. We remind all parties that the legal process is now active and commentary that could prejudice the case must be avoided.”

Legal and Safety Context

The prosecution underlines the importance of the UK’s health and safety laws, primarily enforced through the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. The law requires all employers and individuals to take reasonable steps to protect both workers and the public from harm.

The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate Homicide Act 2007 allows organisations to be prosecuted for deaths resulting from gross breaches of duty. If found guilty, companies can face unlimited fines and be required to implement remedial measures.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), there were 135 work-related fatalities in the UK in 2023/24 and 68 deaths among members of the public resulting from workplace incidents. Over 7,000 enforcement notices were issued in the same period, illustrating the ongoing challenges in enforcing compliance.

Community Impact

The incident shocked holidaymakers and local residents, prompting widespread concern about safety standards at UK holiday parks. Brean Sands, located near Burnham-on-Sea, is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Somerset.

Wendy Jones’ family have not publicly commented since the charges were announced, but tributes at the time described her as a “kind, loving woman” who had been enjoying time away with family.

What Happens Next

The case will begin in Bristol Magistrates’ Court on 6 May, and may proceed to Crown Court depending on the legal process. The CPS and Avon and Somerset Police continue to urge restraint on public commentary to safeguard the integrity of the proceedings.

This is a developing story, and we will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.