Boat Fire

[copterdoctor]

Does anybody know what happened? We heard the radio call saw the smoke and flames from the boat on fire up near the Folly. I hope no one was hurt.

 

[VicMallows]

Yes, saw the smoke too from the anchorage opposite Island Harbour. Had 3 VHF channels on monitor. Crew rescued, didn't hear any injuries reported. Boat was apparently GRP hull, wooden superstructure. Was towed-pushed to safe position near shore. They tried to ram it (to sink it); then to flood it (to sink it). Last I heard, fire was out, and HM decided not to sink it to make it easier to shift where they chose. It was thought gas-cylinders and flares had already gone off in the fire.

Was surprised it didn't make it onto local radio (BBC Solent) news on the day or next day. The smoke was incredible --- very scary.

Vic