Alton Towers owner to be prosecuted over Smiler crash

The owner of Alton Towers is to be prosecuted over the rollercoaster accident in which five people were seriously injured, the Health and Safety Executive has announced.

Merlin Attractions Operations Ltd, the company responsible for Alton Towers, will face charges under health and safety legislation.

Two female passengers of Alton Towers' 'Smiler' ride underwent leg amputations following the crash in June last year.

Three other people were seriously injured.

Neil Craig, head of operations for HSE in the Midlands said: "This was a serious incident with life-changing consequences for five people.

"We have conducted a very thorough investigation and consider that there is sufficient evidence and that it is in the public interest to bring a prosecution."