Brighouse balcony collapse leaves five seriously injured

A hotel owner and four other people have been seriously injured in a balcony collapse in West Yorkshire.

Police, fire and ambulance crews were called to the Casa hotel and restaurant in Brighouse at about 11:55 GMT.

Owner Jack McDaid was airlifted to hospital with head injuries while four women were taken by road to Huddersfield Royal Infirmary.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service said none of the injuries was thought to be life-threatening.

Structural checks

Elland Road outside the hotel was closed for a short time but has since reopened.

The fire service said Mr McDaid and the women had been standing on the balcony

West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said the injured people had been standing on the balcony when it collapsed and they fell about 10ft (3m) to a patio below.

Station commander Andy Crowther said: "Very fortunately there were no people on the patio area at the time."

Sam Holmes, Casa hotel and restaurant group manager, said: "After an unfortunate incident today, all persons involved are receiving professional care.

"Our thoughts remain with them and we wish them a speedy recovery.

"We are actively working with the relevant authorities to investigate the situation fully."

It was "business as usual" at the site after health and safety officers and building control inspectors had examined the scene and were satisfied the building could remain open, said Mr Holmes.