Story Highlight
– Jay Slater’s inquest ruled accidental death in Tenerife.
– Four-year-old Eli Testa killed by falling gravestone.
– EG Group relocates from Blackburn to North Carolina.
– Dylan Sherratt sentenced for raping a 12-year-old girl.
– £2 million donation supports East Lancashire hospital charity.
Full Story
**Major News Highlights from East Lancashire: July to December 2025**
The latter half of 2025 was marked by several poignant events and notable changes across East Lancashire. From tragic accidents to significant corporate shifts, the following is an overview of the most impactful stories reported in the region from July to December.
**July: Tragedy Strikes in Tenerife**
In July, an inquest regarding the death of 19-year-old Jay Slater revealed the circumstances of a tragic accident that occurred while he was on holiday in Tenerife. The inquest, overseen by Senior Coroner Dr James Adeley, established that Slater had fallen approximately 25 metres into a remote ravine on June 16 during his attendance at the NRG music festival. Witnesses, including friends who were with him at the time, provided evidence that indicated no other individuals were involved in the incident. The coroner classified Slater’s death as accidental, bringing closure to a heartbreaking chapter for his family and friends in Oswaldtwistle.
Another harrowing incident took place in Rawtenstall, where four-year-old Eli Testa lost his life due to a falling gravestone in the local cemetery. An initial inquest indicated that he received extensive life support measures at the site before being transferred to Royal Blackburn Hospital, where his passing was confirmed. Medical experts suggested that a brain injury might have resulted from the accident. In response to this incident, the Health and Safety Executive has commenced a review to gather further insights.
**August: Corporate Changes and Tragedy**
August brought significant corporate news as EG Group, one of Blackburn’s major employers, made the decision to relocate its headquarters to Charlotte, North Carolina, leaving behind a 24-year legacy in the hometown of its founders, Mohsin and Zuber Issa. The shift was largely attributed to the presence of crucial financial and legal teams based in the United States. Alongside this relocation, the group’s UK base moved down the A666 to Bolton.
The month also witnessed another tragedy, with the death of 32-year-old Madia Kauser, who was struck by a falling branch while walking in Witton Country Park with her family on August 11. The Health and Safety Executive subsequently issued an ‘improvement notice’ to the local council following the incident, underscoring the need for safety improvements within public spaces.
**September: Animal Welfare and Local Sports Tensions**
Two residents were arrested in Brierfield after a dog was discovered dumped in the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding animal welfare in the region. Emergency services, along with the RSPCA and public volunteers, swiftly rescued the dog from the water. The suspects, a 33-year-old man and a 31-year-old woman, faced charges related to causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. The RSPCA has assumed control of the investigation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding animal rights.
In the sporting arena, tensions escalated when Blackburn Rovers FC enforced a ban on the Lancashire Telegraph from its premises. The decision stemmed from discontent regarding the newspaper’s coverage of the club, particularly concerning transfer dealings. This action elicited responses from both sides, with the correspondence continuing as both the club and the newspaper sought resolution.
**October: Legal Proceedings and Defence Industry Concerns**
The legal system took centre stage in October when 23-year-old Dylan Sherratt was sentenced for the rape of a 12-year-old girl. The court was informed that Sherratt, residing in Colne, manipulated the victim into believing they were in a relationship and coerced her into sending explicit images. He was handed an extended prison sentence of 16 years and 10 months, which included a lengthy period of supervised release following his incarceration.
On a different front, Unite the Union advocated for government investment in BAE Systems’ Eurofighter Typhoons for the Royal Air Force. This call to action followed a substantial £8 billion contract for the Turkish government to procure 20 jets, which the union argued should spur similar procurement for UK forces to ensure job security at the Samlesbury manufacturing base.
**November: Tragedy, Generosity, and Justice**
In November, James Ward was found guilty of the manslaughter of 37-year-old Kirk Marsden after an incident occurred on Christmas Day outside The Gate Bar and Grill in Blackburn. Ward, who maintained his innocence, was convicted after a jury deliberation, marking a somber moment for the victim’s family and the community. Witness accounts described a festive atmosphere marred by violence, as a fight broke out over a personal dispute.
In a heartwarming twist, the East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust received a historic £2 million donation from The Kay Family Foundation, aimed at enhancing the quality of care and support for patients. Martin Hodgson, the chief executive of the trust, praised the generosity of the donation, stating that it would profoundly impact the lives of individuals relying on hospital services.
**December: Legal Consequences and Community Investment**
December concluded with a significant legal outcome; Rafiq Master, a 49-year-old employee at the Department for Work and Pensions, was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison for perpetrating fraud. Master exploited the Universal Credit system, generating fraudulent claims that totaled £51,000 over an extended period. His actions involved identity theft and misappropriating funds meant for others.
Additionally, Blackburn with Darwen Council took steps to preserve a local treasure by purchasing Jack’s Key Lodge. The site, once home to a boating lake, had become an ecological haven following extensive renovations and reopened to the public in 2017. The council’s intervention secures access to this cherished area for the community and visitors alike, showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship.
The last six months of 2025 have undoubtedly brought challenges and changes to East Lancashire, reflecting both the resilience of the community and the need for continuous improvement in safety, corporate responsibility, and social welfare.
Our Thoughts
The incidents reported raise significant concerns regarding adherence to health and safety practices under UK legislation. In the case of Eli Testa’s tragic death at the cemetery, relevant measures such as regular inspections and maintenance of gravestones should have been implemented as per the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which mandates that employers and those in control of premises ensure safety for all visitors.
Madia Kauser’s death from a falling branch in Witton Country Park indicates a potential breach of the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999. The council failed to adequately assess risks associated with tree maintenance and safety in recreational areas, resulting in serious consequences. The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) improvement notice serves as a reminder that local authorities must prioritize the safety of public spaces.
Preventative actions could include conducting thorough risk assessments, implementing more rigorous tree inspection protocols, and ensuring maintenance work is up to standard to mitigate such occurrences. Regular training for staff responsible for park maintenance could also enhance awareness of potential hazards, thereby promoting a safer environment.
