Ship hits North Wales coast

A cargo ship has hit rocks off the coast of North Wales overnight seven crewmen have been rescued.

It happened at around 8.15pm at Llanddulas. The A55 dual carriageway between junction 22 and 24 is closed untill at least 10am.

A huge operation was launched overnight which included RAF helicopters and the RNLI from Rhyl and Llandudno.

The ship is insecure and resting against rocks on the beach at Llanddulas and they are concerns it could leak the 40 thousand litres of fuel it was carrying.

A meeting involving all agencies, including Coastguard Rescue Officers, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Police and the Trunk Road Agency was held in the early hours at North Wales Police Head Quarters to co-ordinate the response.

The A55 remains closed in both directions and an assessment of the situation will be carried out at first light. The weather remains difficult with high winds and rough seas. 

Gareth Pritchard from North Wales Police said: 

"This was a very difficult operation involving many agencies in very bad weather. Everyone is delighted that the seven crew men were rescued without injury and they are safe and well."

Matthew Syddall from Llandudno Junction witnessed the rescue hear his interview with Heart here:

Watch the video below: Thanks to View Creative for the footage.