York toddler who died in playground was on her first day at nursery (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

York toddler who died in playground was on her first day at nursery

5:42pm Tuesday 18th September 2012 in News By Ashley Barnard, Reporter (Richmond)

A THREE-YEAR-OLD girl who died after an accident at a nursery was on her first day at the centre.

Lydia Bishop was injured when she became tangled in play equipment while using the slide at York College Day Nursery at about 2.30pm on Monday.

Her father, Brad Bishop, and mother, Rebecca Dick, are receiving counselling from trained police officers.

Detective Chief Inspector Nigel Costello said: “This was an extremely tragic accident which, unfortunately, happened during Lydia’s first day at nursery.

“Her family are understandably very distressed and are being supported by officers as they try to come to terms with their loss.

“Officers are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident with various other agencies to try and establish how this tragic event occurred.

“Brad and Rebecca have requested that the media respect their privacy at this extremely difficult time.”

Head of York College Alison Birkinshaw said staff were devastated.

She said: “York College staff acted immediately and called the emergency services.

“Our thoughts are with the family, the children, families and staff associated with the nursery.

“We are doing all we can to assist the authorities with their inquiries, and we will also do our utmost to support everybody involved as best as we can.”

Lydia was taken to York District Hospital, where she was pronounced dead.

The scene has been cordoned off while officers investigate the incident.

A Health and Safety Executive spokesman said: “We are involved in a joint investigation with North Yorkshire Police, who are still the leading authority in this case.”

Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding Lydia’s death.

An Ofsted inspection in September 2009 said the overall quality of provision at the nursery was good.

The inspector said in the report: “Risk assessments, which cover the indoor and outdoor environment of the nursery, reduce the possibility of accidents. Children are taught to be safety conscious and they show a sound understanding of how to keep themselves safe.”

The outdoor facilities at the nursery were described as superb.