Solway Harvester demolition to begin on Isle of Man

On board were skipper Andrew Mills (known as Craig), 29; his brother Robin Mills, 33; their cousin David Mills, 17; Martin Milligan, 26; John Murphy, 22; David Lyons, 18; and Wesley Jolly, 17.

Demolition work on the wreck of a fishing trawler which sank more than 13 years ago will begin on Monday, said the Isle of Man government.

The Solway Harvester scallop dredger sank in heavy seas in January 2000 with the loss of seven Galloway fishermen.

The wreck has remained in Manx waters ever since due to the possibility of continuing legal action.

A Manx government spokesman said the work would be carried out "swiftly and sensitively" in Douglas Harbour.

He added: "Advocates acting for the families will be kept informed of these final steps.

"Links between the island and the Scottish area around Kirkcudbright will remain in place forever because of the humanitarian actions of the Isle of Man Government. "

It is expected the work, which will be undertaken by the Laxey Towing Company, will be complete by Christmas.

The wreck of the Solway Harvester was found on 15 January 2000 lying on her starboard side in 35m (115ft) of water.

Those who died were: skipper Andrew Mills (known as Craig), 29; his brother Robin Mills, 33; their cousin David Mills, 17; Martin Milligan, 26; John Murphy, 22; David Lyons, 18; and Wesley Jolly, 17.

The men were all from the Isle of Whithorn area of Dumfries and Galloway.

Because the vessel sank in Manx territorial waters, the Isle of Man government took charge of recovery.