picture: Roger Sharp

RECREATIONAL WATER USERS URGED TO TAKE EXTRA CARE AFTER MSC NAPOLI SHIP POLLUTION

Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) are urging recreational water users to take extra care when using beaches in the South Devon and Dorset area because of the potential risks of coming into contact with oil, hazardous chemicals and cargo debris from the MSC Napoli.

While Branscombe beach is now closed off, it is quite possible that more beaches used for recreational watersport in the area could be impacted upon during the salvage operation over the coming weeks, especially with poor sea conditions a common occurrence at this time of year.

This incident has again highlighted just how vulnerable the coastline is when ships get into trouble and we have already sadly seen the impact the oil is having on local wildlife.  But we hope this incident will be dealt with swiftly to prevent a lasting legacy of pollution being left on the regions World Heritage Site acclaimed beaches.

SAS fully understand the difficulties faced in a salvage operation of this kind and our fully supportive of the salvage response unit’s efforts. But it will be important to learn whether this ship was in a seaworthy condition as in so many occasions in the past poor maintenance and inadequate shipping legislation has allowed unsafe ships to go to sea. We wait with interest to see the findings of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch.              

Richard Hardy, SAS Campaigns Director says: “Recreational water users should be extra vigilant when using beaches in this area. If you see any signs of oil or debris that might be from the MSC Napoli you should keep well clear and contact the Coastguard on Tel: 01305 760439”.