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Boy hurt after skylight fall at former Debenhams

Chloe ParkmanDevon
BBC Looking at the Debenhams building's exterior on the High Street in Plymouth. The building is large and cream in colour. The Debenhams logo appears five times on the front of the building. The street is quiet/ BBC
Insp Greg Bridgett warned of the "clear dangers" at derelict sites

A teenager has been taken to hospital after he fell through the ceiling of a former Debenhams building.

Devon and Cornwall Police said officers were called to the disused building on Royal Parade, in Plymouth, on Thursday at about 17:35 GMT, after a 14-year-old boy fell through a skylight.

The force said he suffered multiple injuries, not thought to be life-changing or life-threatening, and was taken to Derriford Hospital. Ambulance crews and the fire service also attended.

Insp Greg Bridgett warned of "clear dangers and safety concerns" around empty buildings and derelict sites. "The former store has been disused for some time and is now extremely hazardous in areas," he said.

'Dangerous pastime'

"We would urge children not to be tempted by this dangerous pastime.

"We will take a robust approach towards any individuals found in derelict buildings and have been working with Plymouth City Council and building owners to tackle any issues around insecure properties."

The Debenhams store in Plymouthshut in May 2021.

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