What caused trawler tragedy in the North Sea?

Investigators have found dangerous modifications led to a trawler capsizing with the loss of three lives.

Published 18th Nov 2015

Dangerous modifications are being blamed for the sinking of a trawler in which three people died.

It's a year since the Ocean Way went down in rough seas off Tynemouth, killing Fraserburgh skipper James Noble and two Filipino crewmembers.

Two other crewmembers survived.

The Marine Accident Investigation Branch had found vital freeing ports, which let water drain off the deck, had been welded shut.

They've also urged all fishing boats to be fitted with GNSS satellite locators, after a delay in the arrival of a search and rescue helicopter.

You can find more information about the investigation, and advice for the fishing industry here: