Organisers behind a fireworks display have started an investigation after a teacup ride malfunctioned over the weekend.

Leeds Castle says it is shocked the teacups on the fairground ride fell from its revolving platform with visitors still on the ride.

Whitstable mum-of-two Chelsea Thompson has described the moment the out of control fairground ride nearly crushed one of her daughters.

In the wake of the incident, which happened on Saturday, Leeds Castle says it has spoken with parents of those directly involved in the incident.

That includes two teenagers who were on the ride and the families of two children watching on.

A statement from Leeds Castle said: "This follow up procedure is normal practice following any incident on the estate as the safety and wellbeing of our visitors is of paramount importance to the Leeds Castle Foundation.

"All of the families have indicated that they were pleased with the response of the on-site event paramedics and Leeds Castle’s own event staff. The families have been asked for any further information that might assist with the investigation into what happened.

"All of the children involved were seen by Medevent Medical Services staff (the specialist paramedic team) within two to three minutes of the incident being reported, and the castle’s chief executive officer was also there within that time frame.

"All injuries sustained were dealt with by the on-site paramedics and no further medical emergency services were required.

"The external contractor who operated the ride in question has an excellent safety record and has worked at the castle events for many years without incident."

Leeds Castle confirmed the operator had full insurance certificates and valid Declarataion of Operational Compliance certification.

Its statement continued: "Attention now moves to a full investigation of the incident.

"Leeds Castle’s health and safety manager is working with the senior environmental health officer from the Mid-Kent Environmental Services, as part of a full inquiry in association with the Health and Safety Executive.

"All who work at Leeds Castle are shocked that this could have happened..." Leeds Castle spokesman

"Leeds Castle has an excellent record of providing a safe and secure environment for all visitors, whether attending specific events or when otherwise enjoying the Castle and its grounds.

"This particular incident is very much regretted and all who work at Leeds Castle are shocked that this can have happened during what otherwise was an event enjoyed by 8,500 people."