MARGAM, NEATH PORT TALBOT – The opening day of Wales’ biggest festival, the In It Together festival, took a devastating turn when a 16-year-old boy tragically lost his life. The teenager suffered a medical episode at Old Park Farm in Margam on Friday, May 26, shocking festivalgoers and organizers alike.
Authorities have confirmed that the incident occurred during the weekend-long family-friendly festival, which was being held for only its second year. The festival boasted an impressive lineup, with renowned artists such as The Kooks, Jake Bugg, and James Bay taking the stage on Friday. Anne-Marie was scheduled to headline on Saturday, with James and UB40 set to close out the event on Sunday.
According to a spokesperson for South Wales Police, officers responded to the incident at the In It Together festival in Margam after being alerted to a 16-year-old boy from Port Talbot who had suffered a medical episode. Tragically, despite prompt medical attention, the young boy passed away while being transported to the hospital via ambulance. The police spokesperson expressed their condolences, saying, “Our sympathies are with his family at this time.” Authorities have emphasized that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident, and the coroner has been informed.
The Welsh Ambulance Service was also involved in the response. A spokesperson stated, “We were called at 7.40 pm on May 26 to a medical emergency at the In It Together festival at Old Park Farm in Margam. We sent a community first responder, closely followed by two rapid response vehicles and an emergency ambulance. We were also supported by the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service.”
In a statement, the festival organizers expressed their deep sadness over the tragic incident. They revealed that they were alerted to the 16-year-old boy, who was believed to be experiencing an asthma attack on the festival site. The festival’s on-site emergency services team promptly attended to him, providing immediate treatment in the medical area. However, despite their efforts, the situation took a heartbreaking turn. The Welsh ambulance service arrived at the scene, but the young boy passed away while en route to the hospital.
The organizers conveyed their grief and assured the public that they are cooperating fully with the emergency services. They extended their condolences to the family of the deceased, stating, “We are deeply saddened by what has happened and are supporting the emergency services. Our condolences go out to the boy’s family at this time.” They also emphasized their commitment to the health, well-being, and safety of all festival attendees.
