PASSENGERS boarding the Ben-my-Chree in Heysham had to be rescued by the emergency services when a section of the gangway they were standing on collapsed in March.
Seven adults and a child were trapped in the middle of the footway after it came unstuck from the boat as it was boarding passengers ready for the crossing to Douglas.
The 10 metre length of the enclosed gangway plunged two metres onto the dockside and ended up on its side. No one was injured in the incident.
Emergency services from Morecambe and Preston were called to the scene to assist passengers.
John Taylor from Lancashire Fire and Rescue said it was "pure chance" that no one was injured. He said: "It would seem that part of the gangway broke free. The ship may have moved on its moorings."
A spokesperson for the Steam Packet said: "The foot passenger gangway at Heysham Terminal sustained damage. As a result eight passengers had to be removed from the middle section of the gangway by the fire service. No passengers were injured. An internal investigation is underway and the relevant regulatory authorities have been notified."
The boat was assessed for damage and after a delay left for Douglas.
Update: Details of the investigation were revealed in December 2010. Click here for more information.
