Child falls from house window

Residents reported that an air ambulance had landed at Holy Cross park in the town at around 6.30pm on Tuesday.

Claims, now confirmed, surfaced on social media that a girl had fallen from a first floor window.

Police were called and have referred the matter to social services but are not treating it as a crime.

The Essex and Herts ambulance service confirmed that a child had fallen and paramedics had been sent.

A spokesman said: “We were called at 6.46pmwith reports of a fall in Falkenham Row, Basildon.

“We sent one ambulance and Essex and Herts Air Ambulance.

“We took one child to Basildon and Thurrock hospital for further treatment.”

Essex County Council, the authority in charge of social services, confirmed it had received a “request for support” from Essex Police.

The parents of the child declined to comment.

One resident said: “I saw the helicopter land over at the park.

“They were there for half an hour.

Another added: “It was so low over the houses. I was quite concerned.”

It is understood the child escaped without suffering significant injuries.

Allan Davies, from Basildon Council, said: “I would like to offer my regards to the family.

“I hope that everything is alright.

“I would maintain that health and safety is important, especially at this time of year.

“The same goes for motorists as there are more children out and about during their school holidays.”

Stuart Allen, a councillor for Crouch ward at Basildon council, added: “Children need to be watched at all times.

“It’s just about trying to identify dangers.

“It’s the same as if they are by a road or a pond.

“Children will be running around in the hot sun, it’s about identifying where the risks are.

“I just hope she landed on soft ground.”

Neighbours and friends of the family denied the parents were to blame.

One, on social media, said: “I know the child and she is fine, thank God.”

Another added: “The helicopter looked like it was going to land in my garden. Hope the child is okay.”