The world’s last paddle steamer has cancelled the rest of its sailings this season after 24 passengers were injured when it crashed into a pier on Arran.
It was claimed last night that the Waverleyhad suffered a technical problem before it crashed into Brodick Pier on Thursday.
A source who was on board the steamer said that the helmsman was unable to switch the paddles into reverse mode and was helpless to prevent the crash.
A spokesman for Waverley Excursions was unable to confirm the reason for the incident.
The Waverley resumed sailings last month for the first time in two years after major repairs and a fundraising campaign, including a big government grant. Its website confirmed it was now out of commission.
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