by Chris Hunter

Shrieks of excitement turned to screams of genuine terror when the brakes failed on a rollercoaster in Maidstone's Mote Park.

About 10 riders - some as young as nine - were left stuck on the runaway roller coaster for about 25 minutes on Sunday afternoon as funfair staff worked frantically to bring the train to a halt.

One mum - who wished not to be identified - said the workers had to use an emergency stop procedure, but could not bring the ride to a halt at a bay where the riders could dismount.

"One girl was screaming hysterically for the whole time" she said. "They were sitting on the track in mid air.

"Instead of phoning the fire brigade they started it up again and two men tried stopping the roller coaster with their bare hands."

After few failed attempts to stop the roller coaster, it eventually took eight men to stop it in its bay, using brute strength.

Police were called and say wet weather is thought to be to blame for the brakes' failure.

Staff satisfied officers that the ride was in working order, but kept the ride closed after police left.

The Health and Safety executive has been informed.

Were you at the fair? Did you see the drama unfold?

Call the Kent Messenger on 01622 695666 or email your photos of the incident to messengernews@thekmgroup.co.uk