THE skipper of a fishing boat has been taken to hospital after his vessel crashed into a pier.

The Grenaa Star collided with South Pier at Tynemouth at 6.30am today (TUES) and began taking in water.

Escorted by other local fishing vessels and the Port of Tyne pilot launch Collingwood, the boat was able to beach itself on Little Haven Beach.

During the incident, the boat’s skipper suffered an injury and has been taken to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle for treatment.

Two RNLI lifeboats were launched bringing salvage pumps to the stricken vessel to deal with the incoming water while crew members shut down the fuel supply before being evacuated.

Mike Puplett, Humber Coastguard Watch Manager, said: "The vessel sustained slight damage, but there is no evidence of pollution.

"Now that the situation is stable on scene an assessment will be made about refloating the vessel later today."