A CHARD mum who became trapped under one of the carnival carts at Chard Carnival is now in 'serious but stable' condition.

The woman, who is believed to be in her 40s, was a member of the road crew.

Police had described her injuries as 'life threatening' and a spokesman for the police confirmed this morning that the woman is now in serious but stable condition.

UPDATE, October 17: The woman remains in a serious but stable condition.

Police are appealing to the public for their help following the incident on Saturday night.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset police said: "The injured woman – believed to be in her 40s – suffered serious leg injuries and was airlifted to hospital with what were believed to be life threatening injuries. She is now in a serious but stable condition.

"Collision investigators have launched an investigation into the incident and the Heath and Safety Executive and local authority have been advised."

Chief Inspector John Holt added: “We believe this to have been an unusual and exceptional incident which happened at the end of the carnival parade.

“We will be looking into the circumstances but do not anticipate it will have any impact on other carnivals planned over the next few weeks.

“The woman who was injured was not a member of the public but a member of the road crew which provides support to the carts taking part in the procession.

“We continue to work closely with the organisers throughout the carnival season."

Anyone who has information to help police enquiries into the incident last night, is asked to call 101 quoting reference 5217235336.

Chard Carnival Committee has issued a statement, describing the incident as a 'freak accident'.

It said: "At approximately 10pm yesterday an incident occurred at Chard carnival where a woman became trapped under a carnival cart.

"At this time the incident is being investigated by the authorities although at this stage it would appear to be a freak accident.

"The woman was airlifted to Southmeads Hospital in Bristol and is currently being treated for her injuries.

"Our thoughts are currently with the injured women and her family, along with the carnival club in question and we would please ask that people respect the privacy of the family at this time.

"The carnival community which has an exemplary safety reputation, and which is governed by much regulation is shocked by the incident in what was otherwise a well organised and well run event."

A spokesman for South West Ambulance Service Trust has confirmed that the woman was taken to Southmead Hospital in Bristol where she is being treated for serious leg injuries.

A number of ambulances and police cars were on the scene close to the Tesco in Tapstone Road, and the Coastguard Helicopter landed in a nearby field.

Two fire engines also arrived at the scene at 11.15pm.

Speaking at 11.35pm on Saturday, a spokesman for the South Western Ambulance Service Trust said: "We are currently on the scene. We were called to reports of a woman trapped under one of the carnival floats at 9.53pm.

"We have two ambulances and a critical care team in attendance. The operation manager has said how well the three emergency services have worked together and responded quickly to the incident. The Carnival was closed early."

The woman has since been rushed to hospital for further treatment.

Most of the emergency vehicles left the scene before 1am, with one fire engine and two police cars remaining in attendance with the float.

Chard & Ilminster News:

The scene in Tapstone Road at around 2am, October 15

A family member has set up a gofundme page to help support them and cover any potential costs.

Aiyesha Nolan said: "As most of you now know, there was a tragic accident last night at the end of Chard Carnival.

"The lady this happened to, is the most loving thoughtful caring lady anyone would ever come across.

"She is an incredible grandmother to my son, and an amazing mother to all of her kids.

"I won't mention too much about what is currently going on, because I think the entire family deserve a bit of respect and privacy.

"I've set this page up, to try and help keep the family going, any hospital costs, and anything else which will help. Thankyou everyone for your wishes and thoughts."

To support to gofundme campaign, visit www.gofundme.com/carnival-incident.

Chard Town Council has also issued statement following the incident.

It said: "The Mayor, Elected Members and staff at Chard Town Council offer our thoughts and prayers to the women injured at Chard Carnival on Saturday night. We wish her and her family all the best for her recovery.

"Chard Town Council would also like to praise the local emergency services who acted so promptly and professionally to the incident.

"We are unable to comment further on the matter as it is part of an ongoing police investigation.

"We ask that people respect the privacy of the family at this time."

A spokesman for Bridgwater Guy Fawkes Carnival Committee said on Sunday: "Our thoughts are with those involved in the serious incident at Chard Carnival last night.

"We don’t have any details and speculation is inappropriate but we’re sure the whole carnival community are thinking of all concerned."

Last update 12.30pm Tuesday, October 17.