Owners of the Palace Pier appeared in court today over health and safety allegations after a rollercoaster car was left dangling off a missing section of track.
Eight people were sent around the Turbo Coaster ride on the pier in December 2002 before engineers had replaced all of the rails, the Health and Safety Executive alleged.
The ride's operator saw the gaping hole seconds before the car arrived and stopped it just in time. But part of the car toppled over the gap and it was left hanging before the customers were led to safety.
The Brighton Marine Palace and Pier Company, based in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear, is accused of failing to ensure the health and safety of persons not in its employment.
The hearing at Brighton Magistrates Court was adjourned until September 17.
No pleas were entered.
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