Calls for action at tragedy viaduct
NILALC100713A1 - Bennerley Viaduct Ilkeston
Calls have been made to further restrict access to the Bennerley Viaduct after a woman was left with severe injuries in a fall from the landmark.
The 27-year-old mum was found lying beneath the former rail bridge on Saturday morning (February 23) by a dog walker after she had fallen about 35ft.
The woman, from Mansfield, remains in a critical condition at Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham, after the fall, which came less than five months after 19-year-old Sam Stopforth fell to his death from the viaduct.
Cotmanhay councillor Brian Lucas said: “There has been a history at this site over the years and action is needed, particularly because it attracts children during the school holidays.
“What’s needed now is a serious look at the access and for it to be made safe once and for all.”
The dog walker who found the woman at about 8.40am had no phone with her so ran to find help.
A passer-by then called the emergency services and Nottinghamshire police sent out a helicopter to reach her.
The woman’s mother, who lives in Ilkeston, has spoken to the Advertiser to thank the people who helped her daughter.
“I want to thank them for helping her from the bottom of my heart,” she said.
A jogger who saw the commotion at the viaduct, which is popular with walkers, said: “I was passing at the time with a group of other people.
“It’s awful. I hope that she gets better soon.”
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Weather for Eastwood
Thursday 23 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 4 C to 9 C
Wind Speed: 21 mph
Wind direction: North
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