Boaters rescued after huge sinkhole opens up in canal

More than 10 people have been rescued after a huge sinkhole opened up in a canal in Shropshire leaving several narrowboats stranded in the hole or teetering on the edge. Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident after the “significant breach” of the Shropshire Union Canal in the Chemistry district of Whitchurch yesterday morning.

- HARRY COCKBURN

A spokesperson said crews were working in difficult conditions, dealing with unstable ground and fast-moving water escaping into the surrounding land. Safety zones were established around the sinkhole, and people were asked to avoid the area.

The fire service said it was working with West Mercia Police, West Midlands Ambulance Service, the Canal and River Trust and the Environment Agency at the site. West Mercia Police said in a statement: "There are currently no reports of any casualties, and residents are being assisted by the fire service."

The Canal and River Trust said it had dammed off the affected section of the canal, and had closed off the area while an investigation was carried out into the cause of the breach. The trust said it was also providing support to boaters who had been affected.