A ROLLERcoaster operator was fighting for his life today after suffering horrific injuries in an accident with a moving ride car.

The 33-year-old worker from Whitby was in a critical condition following emergency treatment after he was hit by a car on the Magnum Force ride at Flamingo Land, near Malton.

A colleague who witnessed the accident said the man was on his way to the toilet when he was hit by the side of a packed ride car.

The amusement park worker said the victim suffered a massive cut to the side of his body when the braking mechanism struck him. He also suffered two broken arms and serious chest and abdominal injuries.

A Leeds woman who was standing in the queue, just yards from the accident, said: "It was horrific. People were standing there and could not believe what had happened."

Gordon Gibb, Flamingo Land's chief executive, said it was not known why the ride operator was in the maintenance area near the ride, but a full investigation had been launched.

Two inspectors from the Health and Safety Executive launched an inquiry at the scene yesterday, hours after the accident at 12.15pm. Police officers were also called in.

In a statement, Mr Gibb said: "It is not yet known why the operator was in a part of the ride where only experienced mechanics are authorised to be, but a full investigation is under way.

"Flamingo Land has co-operated fully with the authorities and we assure the public that safety is the number one priority.

"The incident in question is being treated as a work-related accident."

The victim is believed to be a married seasonal worker in his first year at Flamingo Land.

He was today receiving treatment at the James Cook Memorial Hospital in Middlesbrough, where he was airlifted yesterday after being anaesthetised by paramedics at the scene.

A spokeswoman for the Health and Safety Executive said a full report would be made of the incident and officers will decide at a later date if further action will be taken.

The ride was today closed for further inspections, although the park remains open.

Malton Police appealed for witnesses to the accident to phone them on 01904 669884.

Updated: 10:52 Wednesday, June 02, 2004