Teen Girl Suffers ‘Degloving’ Scalp Injury After Hair Caught in Funfair Ride at Netley Marsh Steam Show
A teenager has suffered potentially life-changing injuries after her hair became entangled in a moving ride at a rural funfair during the popular Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show in Hampshire.
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 10.53pm on Saturday, 26 July, following reports of a serious incident involving an 18-year-old woman on a “Fun House” attraction.
According to eyewitnesses, the young woman was on the ride’s oscillating floor section when she tripped and fell. Her hair reportedly became caught in the floor rollers, leading to what has been described by medical staff as a severe “scalp degloving” injury.
Emma Perry, a heart failure nurse from Southampton General Hospital who was in attendance at the show, provided first aid at the scene. Speaking to the Daily Echo, she said:
“Her friend came off the ride and said she was bleeding, so I offered my services. When I got up there, I saw that three quarters of the girl’s scalp had been ripped off in what we call a degloving incident.”
The victim was taken to hospital for urgent treatment. Her current condition has not been disclosed, but Hampshire Police confirmed that her injuries are being treated as potentially life-changing.
Ride Closed, Investigation Underway
The ride in question has been shut down for the remainder of the three-day event, which concludes today.
Event organiser Charles Cole described the ordeal as a “freak accident” and confirmed that a full investigation is underway.
“Nobody wants to hurt anyone, and we are a family business. Last night was very upsetting, especially for the man who owns the ride. Safety is our priority, and we sympathise with the girl and her parents,” he said.
A spokesperson for Hampshire Police added:
“We were called at 10.53pm on July 26 with reports that an 18-year-old woman had sustained potentially life-changing injuries to her head while on a ride at Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show. She was taken to hospital for treatment. Police attended and have liaised with the Health and Safety Executive.”
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is now leading an investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
Hampshire’s Largest Steam & Craft Show
The Netley Marsh Steam and Craft Show has been held annually since 1971, drawing thousands of visitors to the Hampshire countryside for a weekend of vintage engines, craft stalls, and family entertainment.
Organisers have reassured visitors that all other rides and attractions continue to be monitored, and additional safety inspections are underway.
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