Lorry contents crashes onto cars and vans during ferry journey

Several vehicles have been badly damaged in an incident on a ferry during a crossing of the Pentland Firth.

Serco NorthLink Ferries said no-one was injured after cargo “shifted” during the MV Hamnavoe’s sailing between Stromness in Orkney to Scrabster on the Highlands’ north coast.

BBC Scotland understands a lorry shed its load and a large piece of machinery landed on vehicles parked nearby. Five vehicles – three cars and two vans – suffered varying degrees of damage.

Serco NorthLink Ferries said the ferry’s crew was reviewing the incident.

Managing director Stuart Garrett said: “At 08:00 this morning we experienced a cargo shift aboard the MV Hamnavoe as it made its way from Stromness to Scrabster, damaging some vehicles.

“Nobody was injured, and passengers were able to safely retrieve unaffected vehicles and disembark at Scrabster.”

He added: “Crew are now carrying out a full review of the incident.

“Unfortunately, this may result in a delay to today’s services but we are doing all we can to minimise the impact.”

Serco NorthLink Ferries said a number of sailings had been delayed and departures could be further reviewed.