Four children have been rushed to hospital after a funfair ride collapsed in Co Antrim.

Emergency crews rushed to Planet Fun in Carrickfergus Harbour shortly before 6pm on Saturday.

A section of the ‘Top of the World’ ride is thought to have collapsed, throwing occupants into the air. It spins riders in circles and can rise up to 40ft above the ground, the Belfast Telegraph reports.

Three youngsters were taken to the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children and one child was taken to Antrim Area Hospital. It is understood their injuries are not life-threatening. Eight others suffered minor cuts and injuries to their legs and back, but did not require hospital treatment.

The funfair at Carrickfergus Castle has been closed this evening.

In a statement, a spokesman for Planet Fun said: ‘Important update. Please note that due to unforeseen circumstances, Planet Fun will be closed tonight for the 7.30 to 10.30pm session.

‘All tickets will automatically be refunded. Further updates will follow.’

Stewart Dickson, Alliance MLA for East Antrim, said: ‘I am concerned with regards to reports of accident at the funfair on Saturday.

‘I understand from early reports that injuries are not serious and hope that continues to be the case.

‘Following this, it is now important that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of whatever occurred.’

It is understood the funfair was recently opened in the area.

In a statement, a spokesman for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) said that three fire appliances, a specialist rescue team and the Red Cross attended the scene.

The air ambulance was also dispatched to the scene. The HSE has also been made aware of the incident, which is ongoing.

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