Surrey farm admits liability for E coli outbreak
The farm in Surrey where 93 people contracted a potentially fatal strain of E coli in 2009 has admitted liability for the outbreak.
Godstone Farm drew thousands of visitors each year to its attractions, which included an animal petting area.
The first case of E coli was reported in August 2009, but Godstone Farm and Playbarn Godstone Farm remained open until 12 September – four weeks later.
By the time the outbreak was under control, 93 people were ill – 76 of them children under the age of 10. Some of the children suffered kidney failure and underwent treatment in hospital for many weeks.
But after a 16-month legal action, law firm Field Fisher Waterhouse said the farm was not disputing liability.
The firm’s personal injury lawyer Jill Greenfield told the BBC: “Godstone Farm’s confirmation that they will not contest the claim is a welcome decision for all families involved in the outbreak.
“To have toddlers seriously ill on dialysis, as many parents did, is simply horrific. Many of the children now have compromised kidney functioning.
“We will only know the long-term implications when the children get older. Only then will it become apparent whether or not their kidneys can continue to cope as they grow.”
Owner of the farm, Jackie Flaherty, said: “All issues surrounding the E coli outbreak in 2009 are being handled by the farm’s insurers, so I am afraid I cannot comment further on the legal aspects.
“However, in the last 15 months, the children involved have never been far from our thoughts and prayers, particularly those who spent time in hospital.
“We sincerely hope that all the children have made a full recovery.”
“We would like to thank the families and schools who have visited the farm in the past year for their fantastic support and encouragement,” she added.
Read our Q&A on E coli.