Shropshire Canal Chaos: Sinkhole Strands Boats and Sparks Emergency Evacuation
A massive sinkhole and landslip on a Shropshire canal near the Welsh border caused chaos early today. Three boats were left stranded, and around 10 people were evacuated in a major emergency in Whitchurch’s Chemistry area.
Terrified Boater Escapes as Canal Collapses Beneath Him
Seventy-five-year-old Bob Wood awoke to horror on his canal boat. “I thought I was in the middle of a big storm,” he said. Suddenly, the boat tilted violently as water drained beneath him.
“I jumped on the back and stepped off and that bit was going down at that second. The back went eight foot in the air and I landed on my front.”
Bob’s narrow escape shows how fast the sinkhole swallowed up the moored boats. Luckily, no one was hurt.
Emergency Services Race to Save Scene as Residents Evacuated
West Mercia Police quickly declared a major incident. A multi-agency response led by the Shropshire Tactical Co-ordination Group swung into action, with fire crews from six stations tackling the crisis.
- Water flow stabilised by 8.30am
- Search and rescue efforts paused
- About 12 local residents evacuated to a welfare centre at the old Whitchurch Police Station
- Nearby residents warned to avoid the area during ongoing investigations
Area Manager Scott Hurford of Shropshire Fire and Rescue said: “No persons are believed to be on board the affected canal boats, and no injuries have been reported.”
He added a warning: “Please do not approach from either direction. We will provide updates in due course.”
Local Councillor Calls It a ‘Miracle’ No One Was Hurt
Whitchurch West Councillor Sho Abdul expressed relief at the lucky outcome. “The lack of casualties is an absolute miracle,” he said.
Emergency teams remain at the scene, assessing risks and protecting nearby homes. Authorities urge the public to avoid the area as investigations continue.
