Trial over theme park ride death

Hayley Williams died at the theme park in April 2004

A Pembrokeshire theme park accused of a fatal health and safety breach which allegedly caused the death of a teenager is to stand trial at crown court.

Hayley Williams, 16, from Pontypool, died at Oakwood in 2004 after falling from the Hydro ride.

The company is charged with the single offence of failing to ensure persons not in its employment were not exposed to risks to their health and safety.

Lawyers for Oakwood asked for more time to review the case but were denied.

Magistrates in Haverfordwest said the company had already had enough time.

Kevin Eliott, for the theme park, said it was not yet in a position to give a plea.

Declined jurisdiction

Magistrates then directed that the case proceed on the assumption of a not guilty direction.

They then declined jurisdiction of the case and adjourned proceedings until July at which point the case will be formally committed to Swansea Crown Court for trial.

Schoolgirl Ms Williams had been visiting the park with family and friends when she died after falling 100ft from the rollercoaster in April 2004.

The prosecution is being brought by the Health and Safety Executive under the Health and Safety at Work Act.