Hundreds flee gangway fall on HMS Belfast

The gangway to HMS Belfast after it collapsed into the Thames (PA)

Nearly 200 people were evacuated in boats from the warship HMS Belfast yesterday after the gangway to the tourist attraction collapsed into the Thames. Two contractors who were repairing the gangway attached to the vessel at the time were slightly injured. About 185 people were ferried from the ship, permanently moored near London Bridge, said the London Fire Brigade. Around 90 people were visiting, including around 30 school children.

HMS Belfast's director Phil Reed said one of the sections of the walkway had "sheared" away from the rest. He said: "The two contractors got the warning as things began to rattle and they ran off and sustained only minor injuries." He said the men had suffered abrasions and were taken to St Thomas' Hospital as a precaution.