The case against a company accused of breaching health and safety rules after a rollercoaster was left dangling on a seaside pier was adjourned by magistrates yesterday.

The ride's operator at Brighton Pier saw the gaping hole seconds before the car arrived. He stopped the ride just in time, but the car was hanging over the hole.

The Brighton Marine Palace and Pier Company, in Jarrow, South Tyneside, is accused of failing to ensure the health and safety of persons not in its employment.

At a Brighton Magistrates' Court hearing yesterday, the bench adjourned the case until September 17, when pleas to the allegations are expected to be entered by the company.