Larne to Cairnryan ferry lorry crush investigation launched

A number of lorries tipped over on the Tuesday morning service between Larne and Cairnryan

Accident investigation experts have launched a full probe into an incident which saw a number of lorries crash onto their sides on a ferry.

It happened on P&O's European Causeway sailing between Larne and Cairnryan on Tuesday morning.

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch confirmed it had opened an investigation.

A spokesperson said it would look into where "significant safety lessons" can be gained.

The announcement followed a review of the initial evidence of the "cargo shift" on the ferry.

The port was shut for much of the day as clear-up operations took place

Accident investigation experts have opened a full probe into the incident

A major emergency response was launched at about 07:40 on Tuesday following the incident in "extreme weather conditions".

One lorry driver on board described how a "big dip" caused the lorries to crash onto their sides.

Police, fire and ambulance services were sent to the scene but no-one was seriously hurt.

The port was shut for much of Tuesday but services have now returned to normal

Nobody was seriously hurt on the ferry but a number of vehicles were badly damaged

The port was shut for most of the day but P&O said ferries had now resumed and all its sailings were departing on time.

An MAIB spokesperson said: "Having reviewed the initial evidence following the cargo shift on board roll-on, roll-off ferry European Causeway on Tuesday, we have opened an investigation."

An investigation usually involves visiting the vessel involved, interviewing passengers and collecting other physical or electronic evidence.

Details from a voyage data recorder can also be examined.

Once the active investigation is complete a report is produced including any recommendations to avoid potential repeat incidents.