Lifeguard on trial after boy drowns in Wolverhampton swimming pool
A lifeguard failed to notice that a boy was drowning in a Wolverhampton swimming pool for a minute and a half, a court heard today.
Kelly Woods was on duty at Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre when eight year old Suraj Mall drowned in February 2008.
A trial against Woods – brought to court by the Health and Safety Executive – began today at Wolverhampton Crown Court.
The 31-year-old is charged with failing to take reasonable care for the safety of pool users including Suraj Mall and failing to supervise users of the pool.
Woods, of Woodland Avenue, Tettenhall Wood, had previously pleaded not guilty to the charge.
Prosecutor Mr James Puzey said Woods was talking to a customer before the incident took place.
She dived into the pool to try to save the youngster.
Mr Puzey added: "She was at work and got talking to a customer while she was on duty.
"A few minutes later a boy – Suraj Mall – was found floating face down in the water."
Lifeguard 'told by girls' of boy drowning in pool - See today's Express & Star