A company has been fined £200,000 over the death of Swanley man Ben Woollacott.

Deckhand Mr Wollacott, 19, was killed after being pulled into the River Thames from Woolwich ferry Ernest Bevin on August 3, 2011.

After an eight-day trial at Inner London Crown Court, ferry operator Serco Ltd was found guilty of failing to ensure the health and safety of workers.

The company was ordered to pay a fine and court costs of £220,000.

Mr Wollacott, a former Wildernesse pupil, suffered serious head injuries after being dragged against the side of the ferry by a rope tangled in its propeller.

He died at the scene.

Andrew Rudge, from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, said: “This was a tragic incident and our sympathy goes out to the family of Ben Woollacott.

“This case serves as a reminder that owners and operators of ships should review their procedures and risk assessments regularly, ensure they are fit for purpose and are being used correctly by their employees.”

Serco’s Julia Warren said: “Ben Woollacott’s death in 2011 was a tragic accident.

“Our thoughts are very much with his family, friends and the close-knit team at Woolwich ferry.”

Serco was found not guilty of a more serious charge of failing to take all reasonable steps to ensure that the vessel was operated safely.

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