A SKIPPER, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has admitted causing an incident after falling asleep at the wheel of his vessel.

The prosecution was brought by the Port of Milford Haven, in relation to breaches of Port byelaws.

Haverfordwest Magistrates Court heard that last year, the skipper was navigating his fishing vessel when he fell asleep at the wheel causing serious navigation hazards, oil pollution and a potential for loss of life.

He pleaded guilty to various byelaw offences and was issued a fine of £293, costs of £784.92 and a victim surcharge of £20; a total of £1097.92.

Bill Hirst, harbourmaster for the Port of Milford Haven, said: “Safety is paramount at the Port of Milford Haven.

"As the authority responsible for the safe and efficient movement of all vessels we did not take this incident lightly.

"Anyone navigating the waterway should do so with due care and attention and should not cause disruption or danger to other users.

"The Port’s byelaws will be used to assist us in ensuring this Port remains safe for everyone.”

The Port’s website contains helpful guides, information and byelaws with which all boat users need to be familiar before heading out on the water.