Drama after van plunges into harbour

rescue services were called to Newhaven harbour today after a Transit van plunged into the water.

The vehicle was completely submerged by the time members of Lothian Fire and Rescue Service reached the scene.

Two officers from the swift water rescue team launched a boat to investigate but said there was no-one inside the van.

The incident was reported to police at 6.25am and the road nearby was closed off while the incident was dealt with.

Local resident Frank Ferri, who witnessed the immediate aftermath of the incident, said: “The driver must have been going at some speed because he got through two cast iron railings before heading into the water. I could see the roof of the car as the tide was going out and it was not totally submerged.

“The road has been closed off for a hundred yards by police.”