The father of a 12-year-old girl who tragically passed away while playing on a rope swing, which an inquiry revealed should have been taken down by the council, expressed that his daughter would still be alive if responsibilities had been fulfilled correctly.
Brooke Wiggins lost her life on November 9, 2024, in Banstead, Surrey, shortly before her 13th birthday. The fatal incident occurred when a tree branch broke, striking her as she was on a rope swing with friends, as noted at the South London Coroner’s Court.
During the investigation, it was revealed that the tree, under the care of Surrey County Council, was last inspected in May 2022, with a follow-up inspection scheduled for May 2024, which was not carried out as planned.
Advocating for Mr. Wiggins, Christian Weaver contended that had the routine checks been completed, the council would have adhered to its policy by removing the swing. Gordon Carson from the Health and Safety Executive informed the hearing that the council’s procedure mandates the removal of rope swings from trees within seven days.
In a statement conveyed by Assistant Coroner Ivor Collett, Lee Wiggins, Brooke’s father, expressed deep sorrow, questioning why his beloved daughter was taken so young, emphasizing that her life could have been saved if duties had been fulfilled as required.
Describing Brooke as an exceptional young lady who was intelligent, humorous, and full of life, Mr. Wiggins mourned the loss of his daughter, highlighting the richness she brought to her brief existence.
Similarly, in a statement shared by Mr. Collett, Brooke’s mother, Claire Etherington, depicted her daughter as a beautiful, caring, and vibrant individual, illuminating every environment she entered with her presence.
Claire mentioned Brooke’s diverse interests in dancing, art, singing, photography, and self-expression, underscoring the immeasurable potential her daughter possessed and the achievements she could have pursued in her future.
Representatives from Surrey County Council acknowledged expert opinions suggesting that an inspection of the tree might not have altered the tragic outcome significantly. The inquiry remains ongoing.