A man who died after suffering “serious head injuries” while “working on a fairground ride” has been named as Corrie Lee Stavers.
Emergency services were called to the Spanish City Summer Funfair in Whitley Bay in North Tyneside after reports that a man, in his 20s, had been injured around 2.15pm on Saturday, police said.
Mr Stavers, 28, was treated at the scene but was declared dead a short time later.
In a statement issued by the police, his family said: “It’s with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our beloved Corrie has passed away.
“He was tragically taken from us in an accident while working on a fairground ride. None of us were prepared for this, and the pain of losing him so suddenly is impossible to put into words.
“Our lives will never be the same without him, but his memory will live on in our hearts forever.
“We love you endlessly Corrie, and we miss you more than words can ever say.
“You’re with our mam now – rest in peace Corrie.”
The funfair, which is in Whitley Bay’s Spanish City Plaza area, has been shut “until further notice” and the Health and Safety Executive has been informed.
The annual funfair had opened on Thursday and had been due to run until Bank Holiday Monday.
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A Northumbria Police spokesman said: “Emergency services attended and a man in his 20s was found to have suffered serious head injuries.
“Despite the best efforts of medical staff, a short time later the man was sadly declared dead.
“His next of kin have been contacted and are being supported by specialist officers.”
The spokesman added: “Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this extremely difficult time.
“We have contacted the Health and Safety Executive and are working with them to establish exactly what happened.
“The fair has been closed to the public and will remain closed until further notice.”
