A young funfair worker has died after suffering serious head injuries in a workplace accident at the Spanish City Summer Funfair in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside.
He has been named locally as Corrie Lee-Stavers, who was in his 20s. Tributes from family and colleagues described him as “much-loved” and said his death had left them “heartbroken.”
Emergency Response
Northumbria Police said they were called at 2:15pm on Saturday, 23 August, after reports of a man injured at the fairground on Spanish City Plaza.
Emergency services, including North East Ambulance Service, Great North Air Ambulance Service, and an off-duty medic, rushed to the scene.
Despite extensive efforts to save him, Corrie was tragically declared dead a short time later.
Police confirmed the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has been informed and enquiries are ongoing to establish the circumstances.
Family’s Heartbreaking Tribute
Corrie’s sister, Ashley McCabe, posted an emotional tribute on Facebook:
“It’s with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our beloved brother 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.”
His grandmother, Christine, said: “He had his ups and downs but we loved him.”
Funfair Shuts as Mark of Respect
Summer City Funfairs, which operates the site, released a statement confirming the loss:
“We are heartbroken to share that one of our much-loved colleagues has sadly passed away following a tragic accident at Spanish City Funfair on Saturday 23rd August, 2025.
Our team is like a family and we are all deeply affected by this loss.
As a mark of respect, Spanish City Funfair will remain closed this weekend, while we take the time to grieve together.
Our thoughts and love are with his family and friends at this very sad time.”
Community Shock
The fairground, which had opened on Thursday and was due to run until Bank Holiday Monday, was packed with families when the incident occurred.
An air ambulance was seen landing nearby as crowds were evacuated from the area. Many visitors expressed shock on social media at witnessing the emergency response.
Police Appeal
Northumbria Police said:
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this extremely difficult time.
Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police via social media direct message, live chat, or report form on the Force’s website. Those unable to do so can call 101 quoting reference number NP-20250823-0616.”
