The UK funfair worker who died in a “workplace accident” has been pioctured for the first time, with tributes pouring in for him. Corrie Lee-Stavers suffered serious head injuries in an accident at the Spanish City Summer Funfair in Whitley Bay, Tyneside, shortly after 2.15pm on Saturday.
The “much loved” son and brother was treated at the scene but sadly died a short time after. His sister, Ashley McCabe posted an emotional tribute on Facebook, telling friends their lives “will never be the same without him.” She wrote: “It’s with broken hearts that we share the devastating news that our beloved brother Corrie has passed away. He was tragically taken from us in an accident while working on a fairground ride. None of us were prepared for this, and the pain of losing him so suddenly is impossible to put into words.
“Our lives will never be the same without him, but his memory will live on in our hearts forever.
“We love you endlessly Corrie, and we miss you more than words can ever say. Your with our mam now. Rest in peace Corrie.”
Pictures have since been released showing the funfair worker on a ride just days before his death.
Summer City Funfairs also posted a statement to Facebook on Sunday confirming the death of a “much loved colleague.”
They said: “We are heartbroken to share that one of our much loved colleagues has sadly passed away following a tragic accident at Spanish City Funfair on Saturday 23rd August, 2025.
“Our team is like a family and we are all deeply affected by this loss.
“As a mark of respect, Spanish City Funfair will remain closed this weekend, while we take the time to grieve together.
“We kindly ask you for your understanding, and our thoughts and love are with his family and friends at this very sad time.”
A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: “Shortly after 2.15pm yesterday, we received a report that a man had been injured in a workplace accident at Spanish City Summer Funfair in the Spanish City Plaza area of Whitley Bay in North Tyneside.
“Emergency services attended and a man in his 20s was found to have suffered serious head injuries.
“Despite the best efforts of medical staff who attended the scene, a short time later, the man was sadly declared dead.
“Our thoughts are with the man’s family at this extremely difficult time.”
Police have referred the case to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) in order to establish the facts surrounding the incident.
North East Ambulance Service was in attendance alongside The Great North Air Ambulance Service as well as an off duty medic, who tried to save the man’s life.
A spokesperson said: “We received a call at 2:13pm this afternoon to reports of a person seriously injured at a funfair ride near Spanish City at Whitley Bay.
“We dispatched a rapid response paramedic, a clinical team leader, an emergency ambulance crew and the air ambulance.
“An off duty medic was also supporting the patient.”
Northumbria Police said: “Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police by sending them a direct message on social media, or by using the live chat or report form functions on the Force’s website.
“Those who cannot contact the Force in those ways, please call 101.
“Please quote reference number: NP-20250823-0616.”
