Lorries overturn on ferry at Cairnryan in Scotland as high winds wreak havoc

Lorries overturned on a ferry sailing at Cairnryan in Scotland in high winds, crushing cars on-board and prompting a major emergency response.

The weather conditions wreaked havoc on the P&O-run vessel on Tuesday morning, with some passengers left trapped in their vehicles due to the damage caused.

Several ambulances, the fire and rescue service, police and the coastguard were all sent to the scene at around 7.30am, as the ferry was on its way from Larne in Northern Ireland.

P&O Ferries said in a statement: "We can confirm that an incident took place on the European Causeway this morning.

"In extreme weather conditions, a number of vehicles have moved position on the decks, causing damage on-board."

The operator added that all 52 passengers and 56 crew were safely accounted for and no injuries were reported.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service said it had deployed four fire engines and that crew remained in attendance at the ferry terminal in Wigtownshire, as do police officers.

Police Scotland spokeswoman said: "During a choppy sailing, there has been a movement of vehicles on the car deck and this has caused around six vehicles to tip over onto their side.

"Due to the movement on the deck, there are a number of passengers confined to vehicles. We are able to confirm all 52 passengers and 56 crew on board are safe and well and no-one has any injuries.

"The incident remains ongoing and our emergency services will remain at the ferry terminal to provide any necessary support for the time being."

Scottish Ambulance Services said five ambulances were sent to the scene and crews checked over passengers.

"No injuries were reported and no-one was required to be taken to hospital," said a spokesman.

"Our specialist operations response team were also dispatched to support our emergency service partners."