Edinburgh Christmas market ride issues safety message after Birmingham Star Flyer attraction crashed

Edinburgh Christmas market organisers have reassured visitors that one of its top attractions undergoes routine safety checks after a similar ride crashed in Birmingham.

The Star Flyer, which visitors can ride at Edinburgh’s Winter Fest in Princes Street Gardens, is one of the most popular attractions at the markets.

However, two men were arrested on Friday after the City Star Flyer ride “dropped to the ground” in Birmingham city centre on Thursday.

Two women were taken to hospital after the attraction “failed and crashed”.

Thirteen people in total were treated by West Midlands Ambulance Service, with two taken to Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.

The ambulance service said the two people taken to hospital were not believed to have suffered serious injuries, while the remaining casualties were discharged at the scene.

The chair swing ride, which is 55m tall, is within a cordon which is likely to remain in place throughout Friday, police said.

Organisers at Edinburgh’s market reassured visitors all rides were “continuously monitored to ensuring they are being operated safely and to the highest standard.”

An Edinburgh’s Christmas safety officer said: “The safety of visitors to Edinburgh’s Christmas is paramount and we pride ourselves on an exemplary safety record.

“Throughout the event, ride consultants continuously monitor all rides and attractions, ensuring they are being operated safely and to the highest standard, working closely with our Ride Management Team and Event Safety Officers, there is a rigorous testing programme as part of our daily pre-opening routine.”

West Midlands Police said two men, aged 55 and 21, were arrested at the scene on Thursday evening on suspicion of perverting the course of justice and obstructing officers.

Police have asked anyone with CCTV or mobile phone footage which may assist the investigation to get in contact with them, quoting log 4290 of December 12.