Accident investigators have called for tighter safety procedures after the death of a sea cadet who fell from the rigging of a training ship.

Jonathan Martin, 14, of Shadoxhurst, fell more than 25ft and hit the side of the TS Royalist before falling into the sea
during an exercise off Gosport in Hampshire in May.

A report published by the Marine Accident Investigation Branch today said the Cranbrook School pupil was recovered from the water and flown to hospital by helicopter but died from his injuries.

The investigation found that Jonathan fell because he had unclipped the belt harness from the wire which the ship's sail is fastened to.

It reported that this action was "contrary to his training and onboard procedures for work at that position".

Investigators highlighted concerns about the supervision of cadets when climbing the vessel's masts and rigging, and the suitability of the belt harnesses provided.

The MAIB has made recommendations to the Marine Society & Sea Cadets (MSSC) and the Royal Navy so that certain safety issues are identified and addressed.

It was also revealed that the TS Royalist was withdrawn from service in September 2010 so its equipment and safety procedures could be reviewed.

For full story see next week's Kentish Express.