Teenage girl dies at Kendal Calling festival in Cumbria

A teenage girl died at the Kendal Calling festival in Cumbria in the early hours, Cumbria Police have said. The 17-year-old suffered a medical episode at approximately 02:15 BST and was pronounced dead at the scene. Police have launched an investigation and are appealing for witnesses, asking people not to speculate about the circumstances.

According to the police spokesperson, officers are particularly keen to speak with a group of women who alerted first responders to the girl after becoming concerned for her welfare. They also want to speak to anyone who was near the Calling Out tent and the Big Wheel around the time of the incident. The force noted that speculation could have a 'significant impact' on the family and friends involved, and asked for the investigation to be allowed to take its course.

A Kendal Calling spokesperson said the festival team was supporting authorities with their investigation. They said that as soon as the individual became unwell, they were immediately attended to by on-site security and medical teams, and that paramedics provided emergency care at the scene. The spokesperson added that the team was 'deeply saddened' by the death and extended 'deepest sympathy' to her loved ones. The festival, now in its 21st year, grew from a 900-capacity event to about 40,000 attendees last year, and takes place at Lowther Deer Park near Penrith.

The incident has cast a shadow over the festival, with headliners including Biffy Clyro, Wolf Alice, Two Door Cinema Club and The Kooks. As the investigation continues, the focus will be on establishing the circumstances of the medical episode and supporting the family. Police have urged anyone with information to come forward, and the festival has pledged full cooperation with authorities.