Wedding guests rushed to hospital after 10ft plunge when staircase they were standing on collapsed during celebratory photoshoot
Newlyweds Andrew Hughes and Amy-Lenna Bryce had just tied the knot when the hotel steps came crashing down
GUESTS at a wedding were rushed to hospital after a staircase collapsed as they posed for celebratory photos.
Newlyweds Andrew Hughes, 29, and Amy-Lenna Bryce, 26, had just tied the knot when the hotel steps came crashing down, injuring at least 15.
The wedding party fell at least ten feet, suffering injuries to their legs, heads and necks.
Five were taken to hospital with serious but not life-threatening injuries last Saturday.
A distraught guest said: “The day was going wonderfully, with everyone in great spirits, as you’d imagine.
“The bride, groom, friends and family were all on the staircase getting set for the professional picture.
“People were still getting in to place when there was an almighty crack — it was almost instantaneous.
“As soon as everyone was ready, they all came crashing down.
“People were screaming, it was horrendous.
“Although there was a lot of weight the staircase should have held up.”
The guest, who declined to be named, added: “It completely ruined the day.
“One person is really quite seriously injured, but they were lucky no one was killed.
“The couple had to call other guests who were due to arrive in the evening to cancel.
“They hope to rearrange as the happiest day of their lives turned into a nightmare.”
Authorities are probing the accident at the Holiday Inn in Hemel Hempstead, Herts.
Meanwhile the bride, who was able to walk away with her groom, was struggling to recover from the ordeal.
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Dad Christopher Bryce, 52, fought back tears yesterday as he said: “I could get really angry, but now isn’t the time.
“A lot of people are still recovering from their injuries and my main focus is to help my daughter in her recovery.”
Officials confirmed four ambulances attended the scene.
An Ambulance Service spokesman said one of those taken to hospital had a knee injury and others were assessed for back or knee issues.
Holiday Inn are looking after the families and have pledged to help the couple rearrange their celebrations.
A spokesman said: “We have been in constant contact with those impacted to ensure they have our support.
“A full investigation has been launched and we are cooperating fully with authorities.”