the-pier.co.uk

(Image provided courtesy of The Worthing Hearld)

Part of Worthing Pier in Sussex will be closed for two month following a crash from a paddle steamer.  The accident caused damage to the lower deck ripping off a 15foot piece of timber as the paddle steamer Waverley was attempting to birth.

The steamer was scheduled to board around 500 passangers including Christine Brown, the Mayor of Worthing.

The Waverley is the UK’s last remaining paddle steamer and following the accident continued onto southampton without the Worthing Passengers.

Worthing Borough Council said the loss of the timber section meant iron gratings on the pier were left unsupported.

A spokeswoman for the council operated pier said: “The pier remains open with only a small part of the structure where the damage occurred closed.

“It is estimated the south section of the landing stage will be closed for up to eight weeks or more leaving the east and west sides open.

“The specialist timber needed for the repair will take at least three weeks to arrive and then with a decent low tide and good weather the repairs can be made.

“The Waverley sustained some damage and the council is liaising with its insurers.”