A woman killed by a falling tree branch in a tragic South Manchester accident has been identified as 49-year-old Carousel PR founder Jen Higgins.
Police attended the scene of the accident on the junction of Barlow Moor Road and Stanton Avenue, in West Didsbury on Saturday, August 30. Greater Manchester Police said a woman died at the scene despite the best efforts of emergency services.
Manchester Coroners’ Court has confirmed a file relating to Jennifer Higgins’ death has been received.
Higgins founded Carousel with her husband Gawen Higgins in 2011, and the agency has grown to employ over 20 staff and worked with global household names such as high street and online toy giant The Entertainer, theme park operator Legoland and heritage watch brand Accurist as well as brands closer to home including Manchester’s Printworks leisure destination and the Lowry Outlet Mall in Salford Quays.
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Among Carousel’s most recent client wins was the Watches of Switzerland account in January this year. Higgins told Prolific North at the time: “We are delighted to be working with such an iconic group. Their legacy and leadership in the luxury sector presents an exciting opportunity to showcase our creativity and strategic capabilities. We look forward to creating campaigns that reflect the elegance and prestige synonymous with their brands.”
Higgins’ family told the MEN in a statement: “The family of Jen Higgins are heartbroken to confirm she lost her life in a sudden and tragic accident.
“She was a beloved wife, daughter, sister, daughter-in-law, and aunt – a vibrant and supportive friend to many; and a dynamic and widely respected member of the Manchester business community.
“You will no doubt empathise with the deep and profound shock we are feeling at this moment and ask for privacy while we grieve. A further statement will be issued when we feel able.”
Several bunches of flowers have been laid at the Didsbury scene of the accident, including one from Higgins’ Carousel colleagues with a note that simply read: “Thank you for always being our inspiration. We will miss you dearly. Love from, Your Team xxx”
An inquest into Jen’s death is due to open at Manchester Coroners’ Court on September 23.
