11-year-old girl in life-threatening condition after falling from escalator in Wheatsheaf Shopping Centre

Escalator at the Wheatsheaf Centre Shopping Centre

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An 11-year-old girl is in hospital in a life-threatening condition after falling from an escalator in The Wheatsheaf Shopping Centre on Sunday.

A police spokesperson said: “Shortly before 3.10pm on Sunday 21 May, emergency services were called to The Wheatsheaf Shopping Centre on Yorkshire Street in Rochdale, to a report that a girl had fallen from an escalator.

"The 11-year-old girl was taken to hospital where she remains in a life-threatening condition.

"Enquiries are ongoing but there are not thought to be any suspicious circumstances.

"Specially trained officers are offering her family support at this difficult time.”

North West Ambulance Service spokesperson said: “We were called at 15:09 to reports that an 11-year-old girl had fallen at the Wheatsheaf Centre, Rochdale.

"We had an advanced paramedic, two rapid response vehicles an ambulance and helicopter on scene

"It was a major trauma and she was taken to Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital by helicopter.”

The escalators remain closed as does the entrance from Baillie Street; the entry from Yorkshire Street is open.

A spokesperson for the Wheatsheaf Shopping Centre said: “We are aware of the incredibly upsetting incident that occurred at the shopping centre.

"The centre is working closely with the authorities and will do everything we can to help.

"Our thoughts are with the young girl and her family.”