Circus Performer Hospitalised After Terrifying Fall at Hippodrome Circus
In a shocking incident at the Hippodrome Circus in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, a circus performer was hospitalised after a dramatic fall during Wednesday evening's show. The acrobat plummeted at least 10 metres (33 feet) while riding the "giant wheel of death" in front of a stunned audience of families.
The circus manager and ringmaster, Jack Jay, described the incident, saying, "It looked like mistiming. He went to jump through one of the wheels and slipped, landing on the floor." Two audience members, believed to be an off-duty police officer and a paramedic, rushed forward to assist the injured performer, who remained conscious.
The show was immediately halted, and emergency services were called. The circus reported that the acrobat's partner, also his brother, accompanied him to James Paget University Hospital along with circus staff.
While the full extent of the performer's injuries is still unclear, it is believed that he suffered broken bones. The incident prompted health and safety officials to launch an investigation into both the fall and the safety of the apparatus used in the purpose-built circus.
The circus released a statement regarding the incident: "During the 6.30 performance of The Christmas Spectacular last night, one of our stunt performers fell from the large performance wheel. The performer remained conscious, but it was clear he had sustained some injuries. The decision was made for the show to be stopped for the evening, and the public exited." The spokesperson added, "Obviously, this sort of event is scary for all involved; we are all wishing a speedy recovery for our fellow cast member."
The performance was cancelled following the incident.
