Woman loses Essex swimming pool injury damages appeal

A 21-year-old woman who almost drowned in a school swimming lesson in Essex 12 years ago has lost her latest bid for compensation at the Court of Appeal.

Annie Woodland, 21, was a pupil at Whitmore Junior School in Basildon when she had to be resuscitated in 2000.

A claim for £3m damages from a number of parties, including Essex County Council, rejected in October last year has been upheld by the Court of Appeal.

The High Court ruled the bid was "bound to fail" and the appeal judges agreed.

The claim for compensation by Miss Woodland, who now has severe learning difficulties, was launched on her behalf by her father Ian.

They have also brought proceedings against Basildon District Council, who ran the pool; The Swimming Teachers' Association; Beryl Stotford, who traded as Direct Swimming Services, and lifeguard Deborah Maxwell.

In October, Mr Justice Langstaff at the High Court dismissed the claim against Essex County Council.

The Court of Appeal hearing did not concern Miss Woodland's claims against the other defendants.