Issue 17

Inflated News - Magazine for the Inflatable Play Industry - Bouncy Castles

Issue 17March 2009 Inflated News / TIPE recognises the following organisations The first INFLATED NEWS PLAY & ATTRACTIONS SHOW (INPAS) 20th - 21st March 2009 Stoneleigh Park Coventry Come and see the largest collection of inflatables, play and attractions equipment in the UK in2009

Peter Grand Owner/Editor Inflated News By the time you are reading this the first Inflated News Play & Attractions Show (INPAS) will be just a few days away. INPAS is the largest project ever undertaken by Inflated News and one that the whole team are extremely excited about. The team have been working since November 2008 to put together the largest independent show for the play and attractions industry for many years. Inside the magazine you will find more details and a list of our 35 exhibitors. If you operate bouncy castles, run a play centre, farm attraction or venue then INPAS is a must for you. Come and meet manufacturers, insurers, suppliers, inspectors and many more all in the same place at the same time. Admission to the show is totally free and you can get all the latest information at the show web sitewww.bouncycastleshow.co.uk. You can also pre register via the site to avoid queuing on arrival Also in this issue there are a number of stories of particular interest including two prosecutions instigated by HSE and a further update on the Sam Harris case. We will continue to update readers in future issues and via our web site. I look forward to meeting many of you at INPAS in March Peter Grand Editor The next edition of Inflated News will be in June 2009 Send in your comments, suggestions or questions and we will include as many as possible Closing date for copy 28th April 2009 Please send your comments, suggestions, questions or requests to us at: Inflated News First Floor 41 Roseheath Hemel Hempstead Hertfordshire HP1 2NG or send by email to editor@inflatednews.co.uk Unauthorised reproduction/distribution by any means whatsoever is strictly prohibited. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this publication and all advertisements and articles that appear are accepted in good faith, Grand Affairs Group / Inflated News / employees and editor, cannot accept legal liability for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies, nor responsibility for the actions of advertisers or any organisation mentioned in the text Grand Affairs Group / Inflated News do not endorse any of the services or products advertised Printed in the UK © 2006-2009 Grand Affairs Group All rights reserved inflatednews.co.uk 3

Stoneleigh Park Exhibition Centre Coventry CV8 2LZ Friday 20 March Saturday 21 March 12.00 noon - 9.00pm 10.00am - 4.30pm To book your free tickets register on line at WWW.BOUNCYCASTLESHOW.CO.UK Your opportunity to view the largest display of inflatables, play equipment and other related products direct from leading manufacturers. This will be the greatest number of manufacturers at one venue in the UK in 2009. If your interest is in inflatables there will be over 50 designs on display from the small units suitable for garden hires to the larger bespoke designs suitable for showmen, theme parks and attractions. Other items on show include roller racers, sumo suits, bucking bronco, fans, generators, PVC, archery, air dancers, insurance services, testing, Trade Associations, DON’T MISS IT, BOOK YOUR FREE TICKETS NOW! INFLATED NEWS PLAY & ATTRACTIONS SHOW (INPAS) the largest display of inflatables, play & attractions equipment in the UK in 2009 invite all readers to join us at the largest gathering of manufacturers Over 35 exhibitors displaying a wide range of products and services. This is the one show you cannot afford to miss! Who should visit the show? Bouncy Castle Hire Companies - Event Organisers - Showmen -Family Entertainment Centres - Hotel & Country Clubs - Mall & Retail Managers - Municipal & Local Authorities - Playgrounds & Leisure Centres - Theme Parks & Attractions

Your opportunity to view the largest display of inflatables, play equipment and other related products direct from leading manufacturers. This will be the greatest number of manufacturers at one venue in the UK in 2009. If your interest is in inflatables there will be over 50 designs on display from the small units suitable for garden hires to the larger bespoke designs suitable for showmen, theme parks and attractions. Other items on show include roller racers, sumo suits, bucking bronco, fans, generators, PVC, archery, air dancers, insurance services, testing, Trade Associations, DON’T MISS IT, BOOK YOUR FREE TICKETS NOW! INFLATED NEWS PLAY & ATTRACTIONS SHOW (INPAS) the largest display of inflatables, play & attractions equipment in the UK in 2009 invite all readers to join us at the largest gathering of manufacturers and suppliers to the play industry for many years. Over 35 exhibitors displaying a wide range of products and services. This is the one show you cannot afford to miss! Exhibitors Activity World Airdancers Wales Air Inflatables Airquee AIMODS Bounceabouts Leisure Bouncy Castle Network Citybgroup Coating Applications Costumes With Character FML Insurance Fun Factor G and G Repair & Testing Gaz Inflatables Gibbons Fans Imber Insurance Inflamat Inflatable World Leisure Innovative Leisure Ltd IPMA Jumpjump Ltd Justinflatables Justsoftplay Melody Corporation Morax Promotions PIPA Pro-Fab Radio Inflatables RPII SAFEchild Silver Arrow Archery Spiders Web Films Super Sumo TIPE Tracks2000 Who should visit the show? Bouncy Castle Hire Companies - Event Organisers - Showmen -Family Entertainment Centres - Hotel & Country Clubs - Mall & Retail Managers - Municipal & Local Authorities - Playgrounds & Leisure Centres - Theme Parks & Attractions

INFLATED NEWS PLAY & ATTRACTIONS SHOW (INPAS) 6 inflatednews.co.uk After months of preparation the firstInflated News Play & Attractions Show (INPAS) takes up residence at the Stoneleigh Park Exhibition Centre Nr Coventry from Friday 20th - Saturday 21st March 2009. With over 35 exhibitors in attendance this will be the largest independent play and attractions show in the UK in 2009. Show organiser, Peter Grand, said,“This is the largest project that the Inflated News team have undertaken since we purchased the magazine in December 2003. It has been a massive undertaking to produce a show of this quality in just four months and I would like to thank all those companies that have supported us by taking space at the show. I would also like to thank our hosts Stoneleigh Park, and in particular Marc Flay, who have supported us from the outset to ensure we produce a quality show. When we set out on this project we had no idea of how it would develop and we are very surprised that we managed to fill all of the 3200 sq mt of Indoor space and almost 5000 sq mts of outdoor space. I am looking forward to meeting as many of our readers as possible over the two days.” Three new companies have chosen to launch at INPAS and this will be extremely interesting for visitors. In addition a number of exhibitors have chosen INPAS to launch new products and visitors will be the first to have the opportunity to order these ready for the new season. At the time of going to press we are aware of at least seven new products being launched. As well as over 50 inflatables on show there will be bucking bronco, gymnastic runs, sumo suits, roller racers, airdancers, soft play, fans, archery and much more. In addition you will have an opportunity to discuss insurance issues, testing, meet Trade Associations and, of course, meet others from the industry. The whole event is being filmed by Spiders Web Films who are making a promotional video for us. Keep your eyes open for the crew during your visit and you may even get to become a star. Take time to talk to the guys who specialise in making promotional clips for use on web sites etc.

INFLATED NEWS PLAY & ATTRACTIONS SHOW (INPAS) bouncycastleshow.co.uk 7 Visitors are welcome to bring their children to the show but please be aware that all of the inflatables on display will not be set up to allow participation. However, there will be a working archery range and there may be surprise late editions. Keep an eye on the show web site www.bouncycastleshow.co.ukas we continually update this as new information comes in. In order to make entry to INPAS as easy as possible you will require a pass. You can pre book these for FREE via the show web site. If you do not pre register you may have to queue to get your passes on site. When you arrive on site you will see the massive outdoor display on your right. Please follow the signs and marshals directions to the designated visitor parking. Having parked then make your way to the indoor display area in order that you can be registered. The car park is adjacent to the main exhibition hall and parking is FREE for the duration of your stay. There will be light refreshments available in the main exhibition hall and for those wanting something more substantial there are plenty of hotels within 5 minutes of the show site. The following pages contain the list of confirmed exhibitors at the time of going to press but there could be additions before we get to the show. Check the show web site for latest information. THIS IS THE SHOW OF 2009 SO ENSURE YOU NOTE THE DATES IN YOUR DIARY

ACTIVITY WORLD - Stand C3C Displaying their Roller Racers. A great add on for hire companies and play centres. Contact Mike Boyle 01494 678699www.activityworld.co.uk AIRDANCER WALES - Stand E6 A range of of airdancers will be on display in our outdoor area Contact Polly Powell 08444 142944www.airdancerwales.co.uk AIR INFLATABLES- Stand D3 Sister company of Inflatable World Leisure they will be presenting their popular range of budget inflatables as well as launching new designs and products. Contact Steve Barlow 08456 800275www.airinflatables.co.uk AIRQUEE-Stand D1 Bristol based company displaying a variety of their products Contact Mark John 08450 094300www.airquee.co.uk AIMODS -Stand A1 Association of Inflatable Manufacturers Operators Designers and Suppliers is a trade association open to all sectors of the industry. BOUNCEABOUTS LEISURE LTD -Stand A7 Hinkley based company displaying a range of inflatable products and soft play. Able to provide bespoke units to clients specification. Contact Gavin O’Toole 01455 220886www.bounceabouts.com BOUNCY CASTLE NETWORK -Stand C3A Launching their new booking software programme for hire companies Contact Eddie Daniels 01455 220886www.bouncycastlenetwork.com CITYBGROUP -Stand E8 manufacturers of Mini Marquees and other products suitable for the hire market. A number of their products are being used in the outdoor display area as well as an indoor display. Contact John Dickenson 01782 790306www.citybgroup.com INPAS EXHIBITORS 8 bouncycastleshow.co.uk

INPAS EXHIBITORS inflatednews.co.uk 9 COATING APPLICATIONS GROUP -Stand B1 Will be launching their new "CAFLEX" Brochure, containing their extensive range of UK manufactured PVC products using both Polyester and Nylon base fabrics. The comprehensive shade range displayed is usually availa- ble from stock. New products on display will include phthalate free PVC, M2 FR polyester and reflective silver coated fabric. Contact David Ingham 01254 391769www.coatingappliactions.co.uk COSTUMES WITH CHARACTER -Stand E2 Colourful bespoke costumes for companies, theme parks, holiday centres and advertising campaigns. Contact Lauren Lawrie 01614 428740 www.costumeswithcharacter.com FML INSURANCE SERVICES -Stand B2 Specialist insurance services for hirers and play centres Contact Michael Scott 01702 437800www.fmlinsurance.com FUN FACTOR -Stand C4 Manufacturer of a variety of inflatables, testing and repair services Contact Ryan 01491 573100www.fun-factor.co.uk G AND G REPAIR AND TESTING SERVICES -Stand B5A Repair and testing services for inflatable play equipment Contact GAZ INFLATABLES DIRECT -Stand B5 Supplier of a variety of inflatables, testing and repair services Contact Gaz 0116 289 7714www.inflatablecastles.com GIBBONS FAN PRODUCTS LTD -Stand B6 Leading manufacturer of fans and blowers for the inflatable, leisure and advertising industries in the UK and Europe. Gibbons Fans have become the standard bouncy castle fan brand for the inflatable hirer and are known for exceptional design, product performance and customer service. We will be exhibiting our entire product range and will have both technical and sales staff on hand to answer any questions. Contact Scott Abbott 01621 869999www.gibbonsfans.com

10 bouncycastleshow.co.uk INPAS EXHIBITORS GS ENGINEERING -Stand C5 Leading UK manufacturer and exporter of Rodeo Bull Multi Rides, Surf Simulators and Giant Games. They will be displaying some of their well known products as well as launching three new products at the show. Contact 01530 243111www.gseng.co.uk IMBER INSURANCE SERVICES -Stand B4 Specialist insurance services for hirers through their Bounceinsure scheme Contact Bill Imber 08706 066668www.gmisl.co.uk INFLAMAT-Stand B3 Will be showing our range of fire retardant P.V.C. in a gloss and cape finish. Both ranges are available from stock in over twenty shades. Also on show will be Tear Aid the instant emergency repair kit which is a must for all in the inflatable play trade. Contact Graham Ratcliffe 01455 633099www.inflamat.co.uk INFLATABLE WORLD LEISURE LTD -Stand D4 UK manufacturer displaying a variety of their products. Manufacturers of quality inflatables for hire companies, corporate event and promotions companies, Showmen and others. Bespoke units a speciality. Contact Paul Walkden 01949 838921www.inflatable-world.com INNOVATIVE LEISURE LTD -Stand E4 Supplier of active, high energy attractions targeted directly at the family market. Contact 01162 887263www.innovativeleisure.co.uk IPMA - Stand A3 Inflatable Play Manufacturers Association is a trade association open to all manufacturers of inflatable play equipment Contact 02476 414999 ext 208www.ipma.uk.com JUMPJUMP LTD -Stand D2 Will be exhibiting a large range of new and exciting inflatables with high season discounts. Contact Melanie Johnston - 01923 270940www.jumpjump.co.uk

inflatednews.co.uk 11 INPAS EXHIBITORS JUSTINFLATABLES.COM -Stand C1 Will be displaying a number of inflatables from their product range. They will also be launching their new division Justsoftplay.com which specialise in soft play equipment for play and activity centres. Contact 01628 529000www.justinflatables.com JUSTSOFTPLAY.COM -Stand C1 New division of Justinflatables.com specialising in the supply of creative play products suitable for play centres and others. Contact 01495 711221www.justsoftplay.com MAXIBOUNCE-Stand C2 New manufacturer launching their range of inflatable products Contact - 01509 889766 MELODY CORPORATION -Hospitality Area Will be providing our Exhibitors Hospitality area within which they will be displaying a number of items suitable for hire companies. They will also be available to talk about any marquee, sound and lighting requirements you may have for the coming season. Contact Ago Fabrizio 01270 251317 www.melodycorporation.co.uk MORAX PROMOTIONS-Stand A9 PIPA is the testing scheme that is recognised by the Health and Safety Executive as best practice for bouncy castle hire companies Contact - 01442 409632www.morax.co.uk NATIONAL FARM ATTRACTIONS NETWORK -Stand C3B NFAN is an organisation providing members with expertise and assistance in the formation of farm and rural diversification Contact - 01536 513397www.farmattractions.net PIPA -Stand A2 PIPA is the testing scheme that is recognised by the Health and Safety Executive as best practice for bouncy castle hire companies Contact - 0207 340 6265www.pipa.org.uk

INPAS EXHIBITORS 12 inflatednews.co.uk RADIO INFLATABLES- Stand C4 Radio Inflatables are launching their new franchise opportunity for hire companies, Showmen and others. This franchise gives an opportunity to work with local radio stations. Contact Duncan or Jo 01296 586801www.radio-inflatables.co.uk RPII - Stand A4 Register of Play Inspectors International provide training, examination and registration of testers able to test inflatable play equipment to BS EN 14960:2006 Contact Noel Harris 02476 693787 www.playinspectors.com/inflatable SAFEchild- Stand A5 Registered charity provides training and assistance for those who work with children or vulnerable adults. Contact 01379 788933www.safechild.co.uk Silver Arrow Archery- Stand A8 A different add on for any hire company, activity centre or venue. On display their archery package an full working archery range. Contact Sue Matthews 01442 409632www.silverarrowarchery.co.uk Spiders Web Films- Stand E6 The official show video and photographers. Watch out for them during your visit as they are making a promotional video. Contact Mike Boyle 01494 678699www.spiderswebfilms.co.uk Super Sumo- Stand C2 manufacturers of Sumo Wrestlers and other characters. Also providers of soft play Contact Paul Hannah 01509 610057www.supersumo.co.uk TIPE - Stand A6 - The Inflatable Play Enterprise is a subscription service run by Inflated News. Contact Peter Grand 0844 80 40 101 www.tipe.co.uk Tracks2000 Stand D5 Suppliers of inflatable gymnastic tracks and other gymnastic and fitness equipment Contact Jean-Marc Cipieres 08453 387058www.tracks2000.co.uk

GS ENGINEERING Check out our new website at www.gseng.co.uk Light Chaser £3,495.00 + vat Our new game is designed to test a player’s speed of reaction With the player standing under the four-legged archway, they must touch the randomly lit red targets as quickly as they can The winner is the player who puts out the most lights within the 60-second countdown Easy to dismantle and transport, the Light Chaser operates from a 13-amp power supply Buffalo Billy £4,495.00 + vat Our new ride is specially designed with children in mind Lightweight and easy to transport, it’s ideal for birthday parties and other family events Offered with either an inflatable safety mat, or a soft play mat, this ride gives the operator the flexibility of it being either a portable or permanent attraction GS ENGINEERING LTD Markfield, Leicestershire. Call us on +44 (0)1530 243111 • Email:

16 inflatednews.co.uk ADVERTORIAL launches new website to benefit members Inflatable Play Manufacturers Association (IPMA) has launched a brand new website to act as an information portal for the inflatable play sector. The new site, now hosted at www.inflatableplaymanufacturers.co.uk provides the association with a site that enhances the administrational support provided to members. Users will immediately notice that the site has a new layout and design which seeks to represent and promote inflatable play provision to buyers from the leisure sector and other related organisations. Information is grouped so that the site is easy to navigate and will be updated regularly with industry news, members news and the projects undertaken by the IPMA membership. The CMS and CRM systems that underpin the site will mean that it is easier to communicate with members and now members will uniquely have access to a private area of the site where they can find out confidential information, input into industry statistics and have access to an online forum, building on the vital networking opportunities provided by IPMA. Speaking about the new site IPMA Chairman John Simmons commented that he is delighted with the final outcome of the facility“The new IPMA website will make a real difference to communication with our members. We are sure that the site will become an important source of industry news and will be updated regularly. Buyers can easily find information such as the benefits of using an IPMA member and profiles of the companies that are part of the group.” Visit the new IPMA website atwww.inflatableplaymanufacturers.co.uk IPMA LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE

Have-a-go archery package Archery is a popular option at events - you can offer it for corporate days - or run it on a pay-as-you-go basis at fetes, etc. Rough guide to prices you can charge: Corporate event: £350 per half day Have-a-go basis: £2 for 6 arrows Archery package includes: · Three targets and stands plus target faces · Backstop netting · Seven bows (mix of adult/junior left/right) · 48 arrows · Accessories ·Package price: £1500 plus VAT and delivery Training day We will visit your premises and teach you how to set up the equipment, how to lay out the shooting area, safety requirements and basic shooting technique. Training day price: £250 for up to 5 staff plus VAT and travelling costs Address: Units 4 & 5 Sparrow Hall Farm Edlesborough Beds LU6 2ES Tel: 01442 409632 Mob: 07889 645797 Web: www.silverarrowarchery.co.uk Email: sue@silverarrowarchery.co.uk

18 inflatednews.co.uk Press Release GIBBONS FAN PRODUCTS INTRODUCE NEW (EXTENDED) WARRANTY REGISTRATION CARD Gibbons Fan Products have announced changes to the way that they will be implementing their warranty on all fans purchased. New fans will now contain an extended warranty registration card that the owner will need to complete in order to extend the standard manufacturers warranty from 12 months to 24 months. Failure to complete and return the registration card will mean that the fan will only be covered for a twelve month period from the time of invoice. Gibbons Fan Products have advised that this system has been introduced from 1st February 2009 and only affects products that originally had a standard 24 month warranty. Technical Manager, Scott Abbott, told Inflated News,“this system is not changing our warranty policy, just the way that we need to administer it. Up till now the only records that we have is the date of dispatch to our customers. We supply many manufacturers and suppliers across the world and sometimes fans can be held in stock for several months before reaching the end user. In the unlikely event that a fan needs to be returned to us, it could transpire that if the fan had been in stock for a few months before reaching the end user, our records could show that it is out of warranty. We believe that our new registration system will eliminate any possibility of a fan being declared out of warranty if it needs to be returned to us. The 12 month warranty extension will be added to the original 12 month standard manufacturers warranty period as soon as we receive the registration card providing it is returned to us within 28 days of purchase.” “We hope that by implementing this scheme we can offer all our customers increased levels of customer care and support and enable us to closely monitor any issues that may arise with our products.” When purchasing new units of fans ensure that the registration card is included in the box or ask your supplier to provide one. GIBBONS FAN PRODUCTS

22 inflatednews.co.uk The current format of Inflated News is about to change. Possibly from the June issue or definitely the September (LIW) issue. Firstly, you will notice that the magazine contains many more pages. When you get to the centre of the magazine you will notice that the right hand page is printed upside down. This is not a mistake. You will find by turning the magazine over there is another new magazine entitled Play and Attractions. This new magazine is targeted specifically at soft play areas, indoor play centres, leisure centres, holiday and theme parks, farm attractions, outdoor activity centres, zoos and general attractions. Readers may well find that some of the information and advertising will be extremely useful so worth a peak. This will take our circulation to over 7500. We trust that you will all find both magazines extremely informative. INFLATED NEWS TO EXPAND SUPPLIERS OF FANS PVC FABRICS AND ACCESSORIES TO THE INFLATABLE TRADE Contact Simon on 01352 732114 or mobile 07976 761493 9am to 9pm 7days Web:www.powerfans.co.uk Email:powerfans1@yahoo.co.uk 1.5hp electric fan hi volume fan 5.5hp Honda petrol fan Free delivery on weekly van run days through the midlands and north . Courier delivery also available . Also suppliers of PVC fabric , hook and loop , webbing , thread , nylon and stakes . Fans and accessories supplied to the manufacturing and hire trade.

Public Liability Up to £5,000,000 Employers Liability £10,000,000 (optional) Property Damage Replacement Values (optional) Legal Expenses £50,000 for HMRC Investigation £2,000 for Aspect Enquiries Business Legal Help line BOUNCEINSURE ® The insurance scheme for Inflatable Hirers Bouncy Castles Inflatable Slides Bouncy Boxing/Sumo Suits Surf Machines Bucking Bronco/Multi rides Soft play & more Phone For Quote NOW! 0870 6066668 … And Get A Real Insurance Bargain!! We can cater for both dry hire and wet hire. Underwritten by UK based insurer No ridiculous conditions for Licensed Premises Bespoke packages can be arranged to meet your requirements G M Imber & Sons Ltd are regulated and authorised by the Financial Services Authority. Great Service at a Great Price 77a High Street East Grinstead West Sussex RH19 3DD Phone: 0870 6066668 Fax: 020 7252 3656 Or visit our web site at : www.gmisl.co.uk

TIPE LATEST 24 tipe.co.uk TIPE LATEST TIPE is now over one year old and the TIPE office has been celebrating as all, bar two, of the initial subscribers have renewed their subscription for a second year. This is a testament to the dedicated team who have worked tirelessly to ensure that subscribers get accurate timely information and support. In 2008 the team produced no less than twenty nine information sheets covering a wide range of topics from basic industry jargon explanation to the forthcoming ISA’s and will continue to produce and update these as necessary. In August 2008 the Inflatable Play Manufacturers Association (IPMA) recognised the value that TIPE had for the industry and we now have many IPMA members as subscribers to TIPE. TIPE has also received recognition from the Association of Inflatable Manufacturers, Operators, Designers and Suppliers (AIMODS), the Register of Play Inspectors International (RPII) and the Independent Safeguarding Authority. In November 2008 TIPE concluded negotiations with localbouncycastlehire.com and TIPE subscribers now enjoy a featured listing on the site. Once all TIPE subscribers are registered Inflated News will be removing its own directory. The team felt that the current directory was not working particularly well and rather than set up yet another directory decided to work together with localbouncycastlehire.com. TIPE is being continually recognised as a source of reliable information by outside organisations. In recent months we have advised a number of Local Authorities and have worked with two Health and Safety Executive officers. In addition TIPE has provided information for both BBC radio and television. Some of the TIPE subscribers made themselves available to talk to businesses about their experience of TIPE at LIW in September and they will again be at the Inflated News Trade Show in March. They look forward to sharing their experience with you. Inflated News/TIPE are now associate members of the Amusement and Leisure Equipment Suppliers of the United Kingdom (ALES-UK) giving us access to a wider base of information on related leisure products and other users of inflatables. Inflated News/TIPE will also offer advice and guidance to ALES-UK on matters relating to inflatable play. TIPE has worked extremely hard in preparing for the arrival of of the new VBS which will affect every bouncy castle hirer in the UK from October 2009. TIPE subscribers received initial information on this new legislation in June 2008 so have been aware then and many have made arrangements to implement the required procedures. Inflated News will carry full details of the scheme in a future issue. In addition TIPE has negotiated special rates with SAFEchild for subscribers to assist in the implementation of the scheme.

inflatednews.co.uk 37 When you want... expert advice on a topic of concern someone to talk to about a niggling issue to know what is about to happen in your industry Ÿguidance on the next step to take in growing your business ... call someone who knows With over 20 years experience and contacts in the industry you can be sure of a reliable answer from TIPE For just £40 (inclusive VAT) a year you will receive: Additional costs may be incurred in resolving disputes. Free advertising is dependent on availability of space Other conditions may apply TIPE is grateful for the support of the following companies: FML Insurance Services - Inflatable World Leisure - Air Inflatables - Justinflatables - Jumpjump - North East Inflatables - Gibbons Fans TIPE, First Floor, 41 Roseheath, Hemel Hempstead, HP1 2NG T: 01442 245700 M: 07850 843005 E: info@tipe.co.uk W: www.tipe.co.uk arbitration service 24 hour emergency advice line telephone and email support information sheets on the latest issue e:mail alerts Ÿbusiness forms inclusion in on-line directories free advertising for secondhand equipment on line and in Inflated News free use of logo Ÿaccess to special offers as available

26 inflatednews.co.uk COUNCIL BANS BOUNCY CASTLES In these times of litigation and cost cutting it is more important than ever that operators act professionally and work to the highest standards at all times. In December bouncy castles were banned from the Flag Market in Preston city's shopping centre. Preston Council leader Ken Hudson believes"unsightly" wires and noisy generators are both an eyesore and a potential health hazard after accidents elsewhere where children have been badly injured on bouncy castles”. Councillor Hudson said:"We would prefer more of a Christmas market. We have to invigorate the Flag Market. We have taken a decision where there will be no inflatables during the Christmas period. If that situation was to be reviewed, then the cabinet will take notice of what others say. With the inflatables, there's a danger. It's a health and safety issue. Certainly, we want to put them in a more appropriate location." Hugh Evans, policy director of the North and Western Lancashire Chamber of Commerce, said his group supports the ban. He said:"The Flag Market is a much under utilised resource for the city centre and deserves to host a variety of top quality attractions that benefit a city of Preston's stature. We would support initiatives to invigorate the Flag Market and welcome any moves to upgrade it so it benefits from its unique setting." But the move has left members of the city's business review panel deflated. Councillor Carl Crompton told a Town Hall meeting:"It's like they are saying humbug to children's events at Christmas. With no more events for the kids, it's going to be dull. Does this mean that anything that comes with a generator will not be allowed on the market – will they now get rid of the fair?" An email written by the council's chief executive Jim Carr was read out at the meeting. It referred to how bouncy castles encourage "unsightly" wiring, adding that up to £2,000 of income could be lost by banning the inflatable devices. The Council have obviously used the fact that an operator had not laid cables correctly and used sub standard equipment to enforce their debate and subsequent decision. The reference to inflatable devices as ‘a health and safety issue’ is a cause for some concern as most operators operate safe equipment in a professional manner. It is important that operators explain exactly how cables will be laid and what style of generators they use when pitching for supplying inflatables to events or Local Authorities.

Tel: 01491 573100 / 07841 872907 email: funfactor74@hotmail.co.uk website: www.fun-factor.co.uk REPAIR SERVICE ARTWORK TOUCH UPS AND ALTERATIONS NEW UNITS MADE TO YOUR SPECIFICATION PIPA QUALIFIED TESTER

28 inflatednews.co.uk INFLATED NEWS LAUNCHES NEW WEB SITE DECEMBER COMPETITION Inflated News launched the latest version of its web site in January. This is an on going process as Inflated News strives to keep the web site up to date, informative and easy to use. All of the Inflated News related web sites are being changed to produce continuity across the range. The colour scheme and general format will be the same for all to make them easily recognisable for users. There are are added features including RSS feeds and numerous links to other useful web sites. The usage continues to grow and we hope readers find its content useful. Our December competition proved extremely popular and many of you entered. We were rather devious with the answer we were looking for and we did not have one correct entry despite offering clues to all that sent in incorrect answers. After consultation with our sponsors, Gibbons Fan Products, they have agreed that all entries be entered into a straight draw. The draw was made on Sunday 1st February 2009 and the winner is Robert Sinclair from the Hebrides Alpha Project in Stornoway. He receives a 1.5 Gibbons fan courtesy of Gibbons Fans Products Ltd. He can collect his prize from the Gibbons stand at the UK Play & Attractions Show or it will be sent to him. The answer we were looking for was in our Leisure Industry Week show review. We pictured the Gibbons stand but in fact this was taken at the European Amusement Show (EAS) in Nice in February 2008 and not at LIW. Bit of a tricky one this so we will try to make the next competition easier. Our thanks to Gibbons Fan Products for donating the prize

THE recent IAAPA Attractions Expo in Orlando, Florida, proved to be a success once again for UK based interactive family attractions specialist Innovative Leisure and the companies it represents in the UK and the rest of Europe. The Innovative Leisure team, which distributes products throughout Europe for US based Spectrum Sports International, Inc., and Water Wars, Inc., joined their counterparts at the show and received a strong response to the products on offer, which included two brand new attractions being launched to the US market. “This year’s IAAPA show was better than a lot of people expected,” noted Innovative Leisure’s Managing Director Phil Pickersgill, “and we were quite happy with the end result, despite visitor numbers from Europe being down. We had visits to both stands from a lot of UK park representatives who are all quite active despite the economic situation. No-one is sitting back or standing still and they are all quite bullish about family days out, as many feel the poor exchange rate between the Euro and Sterling will lead to more people staying at home next year (2009) and taking more days out to UK attractions. So we had a very positive reaction. We also had a lot of interest in the two new products we recently introduced to the European market and which we were making their US debut. Both DigiWall and the modular climbing panels are creating great interest in the UK and Europe and were well received at IAAPA by operators of a wide range of attraction venues. We are confident they’ll be very successful.” Both new products bring yet further options to Innovative Leisure customers for the introduction of climbing attractions. DigiWall provides a completely new ‘take’ on the familiar climbing wall and is best described as a computer game played through a climbing wall interface. It is made up of several different sections, each 1m wide and 2.8m high, the standard version consisting of 6 sections. Customised walls are also available and it can be placed against a flat wall, in a corner or as a freestanding unit with a total width of 6.4m. Each section of the DigiWall features 24 grips for hands and feet incorporating a sensor and light which in turn are linked to a computer. A surround sound system is also a feature of the attraction and a variety of games can be played as users climb over the wall, each using its own sound design. Unlike ordinary computer games, DigiWall provides physically challenging, computer based entertainment for a wide age range. Also making its US debut was a new modular panel system that offers a flat climbing wall solution to suit almost any required dimensions. Ideally suited to creating straight forward climbing features, each climbing panel measures 1.2m x 1.2m and they can be used as either vertical climbing walls with auto belays to a height of 22m or low level traversing walls aimed at giving younger children their first climbing experience. Each panel is made to look and feel like real rock and with uniform thickness at the edges they fit together perfectly to create a realistic and visually striking climbing feature. There are 10 handhold attachment points per panel allowing the creation of a range of difficulties for each climbing route. Where suitable, the panels can be installed onto a number of pre-existing wall structures, both indoors and outdoors, using a steel frame and with the correct steel framework design, the system is suitable for a wide range of venues due to its great flexibility in both height and width. Vertically orientated walls can be operated either using manual belays (operators require appropriate climbing qualifications) or Innovative Leisure’s industry leading Hydraulic Auto Belay System. The Auto Belay System can be positioned either behind the climbing wall if it is not fixed to an existing wall or set off to the side to allow for an exciting yet extremely safe climbing experience. 30 inflatednews.co.uk SUCCESS AT IAAPA FOR UK COMPANY

PRICESPRICESSSTTAARRTTAATTOONLNLYY££4995.04995.000++VVAATT WWeeooffferferaacchhoicoiceeofof44momoddelsels AAllllmmododelselsavailableavailablefromfromstocstockk NoNoaaddvanvanceceddeepositspositsrequirerequiredd 22yyearsearswarrantwarrantyy PRICES START AT ONLY£4995.00+ VAT • We offer a choice of 4 models • All models available from stock • No advance deposits required • 2 years warranty • FFrreeeeseserrvicvice ande andrree-t-teesstt after 12 monthsafter 12 months Free service and re-test after 12 months FINANCE PACKAGE S START AT ONLY £28 .82 +VAT PER WE EK SUBJE CT TO STAT USGS ENGINEERING LTD Markfield, Leicestershire Call us on +44 (0)1530) 243111 • Email: info@gseng.co.uk Visit our website: www.gseng.co.uk MUMULLTI RIDESTI RIDESMULTI RIDES

TRAGIC ACCIDENT WAS JUST THAT - A TRAGIC ACCIDENT 32 bouncycastleshow.co.uk In our June 2008 issue we reported details of the court case involving young Sam Harris who was involved in an incident in 2005. For those new to Inflated News and as a reminder for our regulars the case involved a claim against a Mr and Mrs Perry who had hired a bouncy castle and bungee run for their children’s birthday party and an accident occurred that left young Sam Harris with a brain injury that now requires him to have 24 hour care. The original case suggested that Mrs Perry was not supervising the equipment correctly and therefore she was to blame. The court upheld the claim and was suggested that the damages would be in the region of £1,000,000 although this was never agreed. At the time the case provoked a media frenzy and was covered by numerous newspapers, radio and TV channels. It also resulted in some Local Authorities and venues banning the use of bouncy castles in their facilities. It is not widely known that in July 2008 Mrs Perry successfully appealed the original courts decision in the Court of Appeal before Lord Phillips (the then Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales), Lord Justice May and Lord Justice Wilson. In the Court of Appeal ruling Lord Phillips made specific reference to “supervision”, “boisterous behaviour”, “somersaulting” and “relative size”. All of these comments may well affect the wording of ‘Operating Instructions’ and/or “Terms and Conditions of Hire” issued to Hiree’s by bouncy castle hire companies. Inflated News recommends that all operators take legal advice on the validity of their own instructions. In the original case Mr Justice David Steel referred to two documents in his judgement, ETIS 7 and the BIHA standard conditions of hire. In the appeal Lord Phillips concluded that whilst these documents where “instructive”, Mrs Perry had not had sight of either of these documents and therefore they should not have been considered in evidence. In addition Lord Phillips observed “that avoidance of mixing children of different sizes” was “at the forefront of all the various recommendations for safe use”. This was not true of the only document Mrs Perry read - the Hire Agreement issued by the hire company. This recommended “No mix of children of different sizes, or with adults, on equipment unless specifically designed to do so”. Look at the above carefully and you will see that it implies that if a particular unit is designed in such a way to accommodate all types of users then you do not need to segregate sizes. This is, of course, completely incorrect. It is imperative that participants are of similar size when using inflatable play equipment This point also clarifies the point that if any of the paperwork that you issue to customers refers to another document then you do need to provide a copy of that document as well.

TRAGIC ACCIDENT WAS JUST THAT - A TRAGIC ACCIDENT bouncycastleshow.co.uk 33 It is imperative that when issuing instructions you ensure that you include the age group for which the unit is designed, the number of participants and the need to ensure that participants are of a similar size. The Court of Appeal ruling is some ten pages long and Inflated News has a copy on file if any reader requires further information. TIPE subscribers have full access through their web site. In the final summary Lord Phillips remarked“The issue is whether any reasonably careful parent could have acted in the same way as the defendant. The case does not turn on expert evidence or special knowledge. Essentially we have had to place ourselves in the shoes of the defendant and consider the adequacy of her conduct from the viewpoint and with the knowledge she had. Each of us had the same reaction to the facts. The defendant could not be held at fault for the way that she acted. The manner in which she was supervising activities on the bouncy castle and bungee run accorded with the demands of reasonable care for the children using them. The accident was a freak and tragic accident. It occurred without fault”. Operators should be careful not to read into this judgement that Operating Instructions etc are no longer required. All of the basic instructions that have been in use still apply you just need to ensure the wording is correct. Following the decision of the Court of Appeal Mrs Harris appealed to the House of Lords, the highest Court in the UK, to over turn ruling of the Court of Appeal. In December 2008 the House of Lords upheld the ruling of the Court of Appeal and so the claim has been lost. Mrs Harris still has the possibility of taking her appeal to the European Court so there may be more of this story in coming months. One of the most disappointing parts of this case is that the media have given little or no coverage to the fact that the original judgement has been overturned. Inflated News has contacted a number of news agencies asking them to point this out but is getting little response. Even more alarming is the fact that in recent months Inflated News has come across a number of legal web sites that refer to the original case but make no mention of the rulings in the Court of Appeal and House of Lords. In December Inflated News received a request for help from an operator in Norfolk after a local solicitor wrote an article including the Harris case in a local magazine. Again the article neglected to say that an appeal had been run. Inflated News contacted the magazine and has provided them with an article explaining the whole situation and offering advice on how to hire a quality safe bouncy castle.

ADIPS CHIEF EXECUTIVE RESIGNS 34 inflatednews.co.uk .Press Release: The Amusement Device Inspection Procedures Scheme (ADIPS) has announced the resignation of their part time Chief Executive, Mr. Geoff Robson. His resignation was accepted at the Amusement Device Safety Council meeting held on December 9th2008. Mr. Robson has steered ADIPS through its formative years ably and effectively and the organisation does not envisage appointing a direct replacement. Instead, it is intended to augment the ADIPS office establishment with a full time office manager who will be given the responsibility of steering forward the core business of inspection body and amusement device registration, and of consolidating all that has been achieved over the last few years. There is a commitment to ensure that the existing effectiveness and efficiency will be retained, and if possible improved. The main change is that this new post will be full time, which will help with taking advantage of all the new technology that will be needed to ensure that ADIPS customers are given the best service possible. Commenting on Mr. Robson’s service to ADIPS, Adrian Mahon, the recently appointed ADIPS Chairman, said: “Geoff’s commitment to the scheme has been beyond anything that could have been expected of him and for this we give him our thanks. However, we now have to look to the future and take this opportunity to move to a full time manager at the ADIPS office. This will bring advantages in efficiency and enhancement of our core business, which is to increase even further the safety levels within the UK amusement ride industry. “The HSE announced, on the day Geoff resigned, that the reported incident rates relating to the industry had decreased this year to an all time low and had showed a consistent decline since ADIPS was formed. There is no doubt that Geoff played a major part in this dramatic decrease in risk to the public.” Ends ADIPS is the inspectorate responsible for the testing of mechanical devices primarily for fair grounds and attractions parks. When an item of equipment successfully passes an ADIPS test it is issued with a Declaration of Conformity (DOC) which you will see displayed on the tested equipment. Some hire companies use ADIPS for the testing of rodeo bulls, gyroscopes and other mechanical items.

COUNCIL ADMITS SAFETY BREACH Chester-Le-Street District Council and Brouhaha International Limited, Liverpool based promotion company, have pleaded guilty to a breach of the Health and Safety At Work Act 1974 following the Dreamspace accident in July 2006. Artist Maurice Agis, 76, who designed the multi-coloured Dreamspace sculpture, also appeared before Newcastle Crown Court to deny two counts of manslaughter and is to face trial by jury on January 26 2009. Mr Agis, of Kirton Gardens, Bethnal Green, East London, also denied a charge brought under Section 32 of the Health and Safety at Work Act, 1974. The trial is expected to last about four weeks and Brouhaha and the Chester-le- Street Council will be sentenced at the conclusion of Mr Agis' trial. In July 2006, Claire Furmedge, a 38-year-old mother-of-two, from Chester-le- Street and Elizabeth Collings, a 68-year-old grandmother from Seaham, died in the tragedy, which took place as the plastic inflatable was in the North-East as part of an Arts Council-funded national tour. More than a dozen other visitors were injured, including three-year-old Rosie Wright, from Langley Park. The 50m x 50m PVC inflatable structure was big enough for people to enter and experience the changing colours and sounds inside. However, the work of art slipped its moorings and tipped over, before becoming snagged on a pole. Dreamspace, pictured right after the accident, had been on a National tour when the accident happened and has been seen in many venues across Europe. The facts of the charges and the results of investigations are expected to be released during the trial and these will be reported in later editions of Inflated News. The result of the trial and the sentences will also be disclosed in a later issue of Inflated News and via our web site. 36 inflatednews.co.uk

INFLATABLE INSPECTOR IN COURT 38 stolenbouncycastles.co.uk In the December 2008 issue ‘Letters To The Editor’ we reported on EIC / EU certificates and the fact that they were not recognised. At that time we were unable to make any further comment as regarding . Following an appearance at Shrewsbury Magistrates Court in December we are now able to report that Mr Peter Morrell of Prestatyn, North Wales denied four charges of failing to ensure the safety of a person other than an employee. The court was told that one of the charges arose after Mr Morrell was called to check inflatable play equipment at Shrewsbury’s London Road Sports Centre in June 2006. The other charges relate to inspections carried out by Mr Morrell at the Kingfisher Leisure Centre in Kingston-Upon-Thames, Spennymoor Leisure Centre in County Durham and the Walton Sports Association and Social Club in Norfolk. All of the charges relate to a period between June 2006 and July 2008. Mr Morrell elected to go for a Crown Court Trial and Magistrates committed the case for trial at Shrewsbury Crown Court on Monday 19th January 2009. Mr Morrell was granted unconditional bail. This hearing was for legal argument and case management. The trial date was reset for Monday 2nd February 2009 but at the time of going to press it is unclear as to whether or not the case has begun or adjourned to a future date. This case has been bought by the Health & Safety Executive who have also issued a Prohibition Notice, effective from the 12th November 2008, preventing Mr Morrell from carrying out further inspections until he has provided satisfactory evidence to the Health and Safety Executive. If any reader has had an inspection carried out by Mr Peter Morrell after the 12th November 2008 then please contact Inflated News and we will pass the details on to the Health and Safety Officer concerned. The verdict will be reported in a future edition of Inflated News and via our web sites. In the meantime we would advise any person that has had a test carried out by Mr Peter Morrell that is still valid contact Inflated News for further advice.