Break for Trident sinking inquiry

Seven men lost their lives when the Trident sank

An inquiry into the loss of a fishing boat in 1974 which claimed seven lives is set to be adjourned.

The Trident was heading home to Peterhead when it sank off Caithness.

Relatives of some of the seven men who died claim the Trident was unstable, rather than the boat solely being swamped by a wave.

The inquiry, which began on 19 October, is due to finish on Tuesday. It will continue in February to hear the remaining evidence.

The inquiry has heard it was understood the Trident started its final voyage from Troon to Peterhead in the early hours of 2 October, 1974.

Skipper David Tait was returning to Peterhead by car so Robert Cordiner assumed command.

Radio contact was lost with the boat on the afternoon of 3 October.

An oil film was reported on 6 October in the original area of the last known position of the Trident.

Mr Cordiner, Alexander Ritchie, George Nicol, James Tait, Thomas Thain, Alexander Mair and Alexander Summers died.

Six of the crew were in their 30s, and Mr Nicol was in his 50s.