French fisherman killed in Jersey ferry crash

A French fisherman has died after his vessel was in collision with a Condor Ferry on its way to Jersey from France.

The Condor Vitesse, travelling to St Helier from St Malo, was in collision with the boat, which had three French nationals on board, on Monday morning.

The two surviving sailors were taken on board the Vitesse and later treated for shock at Jersey's General Hospital.

The incident was to be investigated by French authorities as it happened in French waters, the States said.

The ferry arrived at St Helier's Elizabeth Terminal at 1120 BST.

'Acted fast'

The Condor Vitesse sustained some damage to the starboard bow but was able to get back to port under its own power and without assistance.

Simon Edsall, managing director of Condor Ferries, said: "I can confirm that all passengers are accounted for and uninjured.

"The crew acted fast to rescue two of the fishermen and cooperated with a further fishing boat to recover the third."

Jersey Coastguard said the accident was during the ferry's 0700 BST sailing.

A French rescue helicopter sent from Granville to assist the fisherman had to abort its airlift because of poor weather conditions.

One of the passengers on the Vitesse was a doctor who offered his services after an appeal by the ferry captain.

Eyewitnesses on board said it was very foggy at the time.

States of Jersey Police confirmed they would be speaking to passengers and crew as they come off the ship.