Birmingham City Council makes German Market position clear after horror ride crash

Birmingham City Council have offered 'thoughts with those who have been injured' following the horrific ride crash at the German Market. Thirteen people were left injured, with two rushed to hospital after a fairground ride in Centenary Square malfunctioned and 'dropped'.

The Star Flyer ride crashed at 7.30pm yesterday (Thursday, December 12), leaving punters in shock and the ride closed for the foreseeable future. Two people, aged 55 and 21, were detained at the scene last night on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and obstructing officers.

West Midlands Police says they remain in custody today (December 13) as the site, including the Ferris Wheel, remains cordoned off. Ice Skate Birmingham, who operates the rides, is still in use, according to ticket sellers.

Read more: Two arrests after police rush to Birmingham Christmas ride crash horror - live

Birmingham City Council said: "Our thoughts are with those who have been injured in the incident in Centenary Square and we wish them a speedy recovery. The HSE is now investigating the cause of this incident and will be working with the private company that owns the ride.

"The council will support this process as and when required."

The Council emphasised the fairground rides, including Star Flyer, were owned and operated by a private company, not the Council or Frankfurt Christmas Market. Therefore the market would not be impacted by the crash and will operate as normal.

The West Midlands force said officers remained in Centenary Square assisting the Health & Safety Executive, which is examining what happened.