Owners of inflatable trampoline that exploded and killed toddler, 3, will not face prosecution

No further action will be taken against the owners of an inflatable trampoline which exploded, resulting in the death of a three-year-old girl.

Ava-May Littleboy was “catapulted” 20ft from the inflatable on the beach at Gorleston, Norfolk on July 1 – one of the hottest days in Britain last year.

Members of the public and paramedics tried to revive her but the youngster, from Somersham, Suffolk, went into cardiac arrest and died at the scene.

The youngster suffered a fatal head injury after being hurled from the play equipment which ‘exploded’ on the beach last year.

It is thought hot weather could have caused the inflatable to pop as temperatures reached up to 29 degrees celsius.

Ava-May was rushed to hospital but died hours later.

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A man and a woman in their 40s were arrested on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter.

Experts were also called in to examine the inflatable equipment Ava-May was playing on as part of a joint investigation by Norfolk Police and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Detectives have now confirmed that the two people arrested in connection with the incident will not face prosecution.

A police statement said; “Following extensive enquiries and consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, a decision has been made not to proceed with any manslaughter offences against any individual or company.

“Detectives from the Norfolk and Suffolk Major Investigation Team will now liaise with the coroner in respect of the inquest and support Great Yarmouth Borough Council, which will review the evidence with a view to prosecuting under health and safety legislation.”