The peaceful village of Stathern in Leicestershire, located just eight miles from Melton Mowbray, was shaken by a deeply disturbing incident at a children’s summer camp. What began as a typical day of outdoor fun and bonding for the youngsters soon turned into a suspected poisoning case that has left the local community in disbelief.
A 76-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of administering a noxious substance with intent to harm, after 8 Children Poisoned at Summer Camp held at Stathern Lodge. The alarm was first raised on Sunday when a third party contacted Leicestershire Police to report that children at the camp were feeling unwell. Surprisingly, the police did not respond immediately and instead arrived at the scene the following day.
By Monday, the situation had escalated into what authorities later declared a critical incident. A significant police and emergency response operation was launched, involving officers, health professionals, and children’s services. The delay in the police response has since come under intense scrutiny and is now being investigated by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
8 Children Poisoned at Summer Camp Held At Stathern Lodge
Upon their arrival at the summer camp on Canal Lane, police coordinated the establishment of a triage center at nearby Plungar Village Hall. All children attending the camp were brought in for immediate assessment. Of those examined, eight children were taken to hospital as a precautionary measure. Thankfully, all of them were discharged shortly afterward and returned home safely. However, the circumstances leading to their sudden illness prompted a serious criminal investigation.
Later that same evening, police arrested a 76-year-old man at a public house on suspicion of “administering poison or a noxious thing with intent to injure, aggrieve or annoy.” The man remains in custody as investigators from the East Midlands Special Operations Unit’s major incident team continue to gather evidence and conduct inquiries. Officers have maintained a visible presence in the village as part of their ongoing reassurance efforts and to manage the scene at Stathern Lodge.
The severity of the case has drawn national attention, not only due to the nature of the allegations but also because of the delayed police response. The IOPC announced that it had received a conduct referral from Leicestershire Police regarding their handling of the initial concerns.
Leicestershire Police have arrested a 76-year-old man on suspicion of administering poison, after eight children fell ill at Stathern Lodge summer camp.
— Channel 5 News (@5_News) July 31, 2025
The children were taken to hospital on Sunday – all eight have since been discharged.@Julian5News pic.twitter.com/we0CR7zefs
Following a review of available evidence, the IOPC concluded that an independent investigation was warranted to determine whether there were any breaches of professional behavior or a failure to perform duties adequately. Their focus will be on whether these failures contributed to the delayed response to what ultimately became a critical child safety incident.
Community Reactions and Safeguarding Measures
Local reactions have been a mix of concern, shock, and a demand for clarity. Isaac Ashe, a BBC reporter at the scene, noted the unusual quiet of the area surrounding Stathern Lodge, which typically comprises little more than a hospice charity shop and a coffee stop. Many locals expressed disbelief that such an incident could occur in their small, close-knit village.
Phil Dewey, a 75-year-old resident out walking his dog, said he was taken aback to see police vehicles and officers at the site, describing the entire situation as “bizarre.” Among those affected most directly are the families of the children who fell ill. Police have confirmed they are in close contact with the parents and guardians of all the children involved, providing regular updates and assurances.
Det Insp Neil Holden, the lead officer in the case, emphasized the sensitivity of the investigation and the emotional toll it may be taking on everyone involved. He confirmed that dedicated resources have been deployed and that they are working closely with children’s services to ensure proper safeguarding procedures are in place.
Assistant Chief Constable James Avery addressed the media on Thursday but was careful not to reveal specific details that might compromise the investigation. He declined to specify the ages or gender of the children or elaborate on what substance was involved in the poisoning. His primary message was that the care and ongoing welfare of the affected children remain the top priority for both police and support services.
Wider Implications and Institutional Accountability
The case has also sparked a broader conversation about institutional responsibility and emergency response protocols. Local MP Ed Argar, the Conservative representative for Melton and Syston, described the developments as “clearly shocking” and urged authorities to be transparent while maintaining the integrity of the investigation.
He cautioned against speculation and highlighted the importance of allowing the police to carry out their duties without undue interference. However, he also noted the need for the police to release as much verified information as possible to maintain public trust and calm growing concerns.
This incident raises serious questions about how reports of potential child endangerment are prioritized and handled by authorities. The IOPC’s investigation will be closely watched as it examines whether there was a systemic breakdown or individual negligence involved in the delay between the initial report and police arrival at the camp.
Given that this delay could have had life-threatening consequences, the outcome of the IOPC inquiry may result in policy changes or disciplinary action within Leicestershire Police. The religious community has also responded with shock.
Elvas Madanombe, representing the Friday Apostles church in Sheffield—a group that frequently visits Stathern Lodge—described the incident as “horrific” and “unimaginable.” He stated that the church would now reconsider its plans to visit the site in the future, a sentiment that reflects growing anxiety among organizations and parents who may have previously trusted the facility.
At this point, the motivations behind the suspected poisoning remain unknown, and the role of the 76-year-old suspect is still being established. Police have not revealed whether the suspect had any official connection to the camp or the children, nor have they provided information about his background or potential motives. The ongoing investigation will seek to answer these pressing questions while ensuring the safety of children involved and restoring community confidence.
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities children face, even in environments considered safe and structured. It also highlights the vital importance of rapid emergency responses, thorough background checks for all individuals involved in child-centric programs, and the role of community vigilance. For now, the village of Stathern and the families involved can only hope that justice is served swiftly and that such a frightening incident is never repeated.