Child dies after being hit by car on sports pitch in Kendal

A 10-year-old girl from Kendal has died after being hit by a car on a pitch at a rugby club in the town.

A man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

An eight-year-old girl from Kendal was also injured in the incident at Kendal Rugby Club, involving a black BMW i40. She was taken to hospital and her injuries are not life-threatening.

Police are treating the collision as an isolated incident and said "there is no suggestion at this time that this is terror-related".

A police spokesperson said on Thursday,  that "at this time, there is no indication to suggest that this incident was a deliberate act".

Police were called at 4:58pm on Wednesday to a report of a collision involving a car and two children on a pitch at Kendal Rugby Union Football Club on Shap Road.

A spokesperson for Cumbria Police said: "Police can confirm that one of the children involved has sadly died.

"The second child involved in this collision is being treated by paramedics.

"Immediate family members of both respective children have been informed.

"Specialist investigators are at the scene and the area has been cordoned off as initial investigation enquiries take place.

"The driver of the car, a man aged in his 40s, has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. The car involved was a black BMW i40.

"Police are treating this collision as an isolated incident and there is no suggestion at this time that this is terror-related.

"Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to contact police by reporting online HERE, quoting incident number 195 of 5 March."

Dr Stephen Green, chairman of Kendal Rugby Club, said on Wednesday: "We are deeply saddened to confirm that an incident occurred today at Kendal Rugby Club, resulting in a tragic loss of a child's life.

"Our thoughts are with their family and friends and we kindly ask for privacy for all involved at this difficult time.

"We are cooperating fully with the authorities as they conduct their investigation - the club and all facilities are temporarily closed while this is carried out."

Tim Farron, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, said: "This is devastating, utterly heartbreaking news.

"I’m praying for the children and for their families and friends. Our community in Kendal is stunned and in mourning."

A 40-year-old man, from Lancaster, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. He remains in police custody.

Investigative enquiries are continuing to establish the full circumstances of this incident and to inform a future coronial process.

A multi-agency response will continue today to support people affected by this incident.

Anyone who directly witnessed the collision is asked to contact police by reporting online at https://orlo.uk/Nl5Jx, quoting incident number 195 of 5 March. You can also call 101.