Family and dog saved from boat wedged under bridge

18 hours ago

Zoe ApplegateNorfolk

News image — The Broads hire cruiser became wedged under St Olaves bridge, next to The Bell Inn on the Norfolk-Suffolk border, on Saturday

Oliv3r Drone Photography A white cruiser is wedged sideways on underneath a metal bridge. — The Broads hire cruiser became wedged under St Olaves bridge, next to The Bell Inn on the Norfolk-Suffolk border, on Saturday

A family of four and their dog had to be rescued from a Broads hire cruiser wedged under a bridge.

Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service tried to pull the boat from under St Olaves bridge, on the River Waveney, but a "strong wind and fast-rising tide made this impossible," said the HM Coastguard.

Emergency services were called to the bridge on the Norfolk-Suffolk border, which carries the A143 Beccles Road, at about 10:55 BST on Saturday.

Coastguard teams from Great Yarmouth and Gorleston said they made sure the family were safe and well after they were brought to shore by a boat from the nearby marina.

Oliv3r Drone Photography A drone image of a white cruiser wedged under a metal bridge over a river, with a marina in the distance. — The picturesque spot is a popular location for boaters

HM Coastguard Gorleston The boat wedged under the bridge and a smaller white boat to the side of it, with someone standing up. — Coastguard teams from Great Yarmouth and Gorleston stayed on the scene to help free the boat when the tide allowed

They then helped free the boat when the tide allowed, and the family were able to continue their holiday on the vessel, the local coastguard added.

Warning signs urging boaters to be cautious of passing under the low bridge, next to the Bell Inn and close to St Olaves marina, are on display at the site.

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