Holiday horror: structural collapse leads to corporate manslaughter charges

On 20 February 2019, a devastating structural collapse at family holiday park, Pontins Brean Sands in Somerset turned a routine evening into a traumatic ordeal for dozens of holidaymakers. Operated by Britannia Jinky Jersey Ltd, the park’s main entertainment venue—the Fun Factory—was hosting a bingo night when tragedy struck.

At approximately 6:30 p.m., around 100 guests had gathered for the event when a large section of the ceiling suddenly gave way. Roughly 40 metres of ceiling and structural ducting, including components of the heating and air-conditioning system, plummeted without warning onto the unsuspecting crowd below. Witnesses described a loud cracking noise followed by screams and chaos as ceiling tiles, ductwork, and debris rained down.

The force of the collapse exposed live electrical wiring, introducing further danger to those trapped or attempting to flee. Emergency services responded swiftly, with the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service confirming significant structural and electrical damage at the site. Firefighters, paramedics, and police worked through the evening to assist victims, secure the scene, and assess the building’s stability.

In total, 18 people sustained injuries in the incident. Six individuals required hospitalisation due to the severity of their wounds. Among them was 68-year-old Mrs Wendy Jones, a holidaymaker from the West Midlands who had been attending the event while using a mobility scooter. She was tragically pinned under the debris and suffered life-altering injuries, including a fractured hip and a severely crushed leg.

Despite initial medical treatment and ongoing care, Mrs Jones never fully recovered. She passed away in August 2019. A post-mortem examination confirmed that her death was directly attributable to the injuries she sustained during the ceiling collapse.

The tragic circumstances prompted a joint investigation by Avon and Somerset Police and Somerset Council, which lasted several years due to the complex nature of the case. Investigators examined the structural integrity of the building, maintenance records, and contractor involvement in the installation and upkeep of the ceiling system.

As a result of the investigation, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has now authorised criminal charges. Britannia Jinky Jersey Ltd, the company that owns and operates the holiday park, has been charged with corporate manslaughter—a serious offence indicating a gross breach of duty of care leading to a person’s death.

The company is due to appear at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on 6 May 2025 to face the charges.

In addition to the corporate charges, Mr Stephen Bennison, aged 58, from Farington, Lancashire, who was involved as a contractor, faces prosecution under Section 3 of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This section pertains to the duty of every employer (and self-employed person) to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health and safety of individuals who may be affected by their work.

Detective Superintendent Roger Doxsey, the Senior Investigating Officer in the case, issued a statement acknowledging the gravity of the charges: “Our thoughts remain with the family of Wendy Jones, and we have informed them of the CPS’ charging decisions. This has been a complex investigation, and we are grateful for the support of Somerset Council and other partners in reaching this stage. We remind the public that every defendant is entitled to a fair trial, and no commentary or materials should be published that could prejudice the ongoing court proceedings.”

The incident has raised wider concerns about safety standards and oversight at holiday parks, especially those catering to large public gatherings. Questions remain about inspection protocols, contractor qualifications, and ongoing maintenance responsibilities at such sites. This case is likely to draw attention from both regulators and the public as it proceeds through the courts.

As the trial date approaches, the outcome of the proceedings will be closely watched by industry stakeholders, legal experts, and the wider public—many of whom will be hoping for justice, accountability, and greater safety measures in leisure facilities across the UK.

Visit BrAInbox today where you can find answers to questions like Who can do risk assessments?

• Supreme Court rules on definition of "sex" in Equality Act 2010
• Fake Greggs manager jailed for £710k baker fraud
• Holly Willoughby's company settles £377 tax bill
• Unsafe and Unlawful: company director sentenced over serious fire failings