Regular Portsmouth sight paddle steamer Waverley is out of action after crashing into pier and injuring 24 people

The recently relaunched Waverley Steamer hit a pier on Arran, one of the Scottish Islands.

Emergency services were called to Brodick Pier at around 5.28pm on Thursday.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) said 213 passengers and 26 crew were on board at the time of the collision.

Of those, 24 people reported injuries and were treated at the scene with a number taken to hospital on Arran or on the mainland by helicopter.

A statement on the MCA website said: ‘HM Coastguard was made aware at 5.28pm yesterday (September 3) of an incident in which a paddle steamer collided with Brodick Pier on the Isle of Arran.

‘A coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Prestwick and two Helimed were sent, along with Arran coastguard rescue team.

‘Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service and Police Scotland were at the scene.

‘213 passengers and 26 crew were onboard at the time of the collision.

‘24 people reported injuries and were treated on scene, at the hospital on Arran, or transported by helicopter to hospital on the mainland.”

The statement added: ‘Along with partner agencies we worked to ensure everyone was taken safely from the vessel, and those who did not require medical treatment were taken to Ardrossan by ferry.

‘All emergency services had left the scene at 4am today (September 4).

‘The Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) has been informed.’

SEE ALSO: Motorists face delays in A27 roadworks

The world’s last seagoing paddle steamer resumed sailings last month having been halted due to lockdown restrictions.

A statement on the Waverley’s website on Wednesday said: ‘Waverley’s short season of cruises on the Clyde has been extended and she will now operate until Saturday 12th September.’

But an update on Friday morning added: ‘Waverley made heavy contact while berthing at Brodick Pier on Thursday 3rd September and will be unable to undertake any further sailings this season.

‘We extend our thanks to everyone who has supported our sailings in 2020.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

Thank you for reading this story. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on our advertisers and thus our revenues.

The News is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. You can subscribe here for unlimited access to Portsmouth news and information online.

Every subscription helps us continue providing trusted, local journalism and campaign on your behalf for our city.