Theme park owners to stand trial

Gemma Savage died one day after the accident

Lightwater Valley theme park is to face trial for allegedly breaching health and safety laws after the death of a woman on a rollercoaster ride.

Gemma Savage, 20, from Wath upon Dearne, South Yorkshire, died after two cars collided on the ride in June 2001.

The Durham University biomedical science student was on a day out with friends when the accident happened.

The ride's manufacturers and a maintenance electrician have also been accused of health and safety breaches.

Lightwater Valley Attractions Ltd has denied failing to ensure the health and safety of riders while electrician Eric Butters, of Fairways Avenue, Harrogate, has denied failing to ensure safety through his work.

Failed to appear

French firm Societe Reverchon, which manufactured the Treetop Twister ride, is charged with failing to ensure the safety of its construction.

The company did not enter a plea and failed to appear at Leeds Crown Court on Friday.

Miss Savage died in hospital one day after the crash while three other riders were also injured at the park near Ripon.

The trial is due to begin on 14 November and is expected to last four weeks.