A Southampton maritime charity has expressed its sadness after a container ship crashed into a bridge in America.

A number of casualties have been reported after the Singapore-flagged container ship, called DALI, hit a column of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.

The ship arrived in Baltimore from Norfolk in the US on Monday having previously been to New York City and Panama. 

Video shared online shows the moment the ship crashes resulting in the bridge's collapse.

Stuart Rivers,  CEO of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), expressed his sadness following this incident.

He said: “We are saddened to hear of this tragedy.

“Our hearts go out to each and every one affected by this mass casualty incident and we are praying for everyone’s safety at this horrific time.”

Mr Rivers added: “The MNWB is ready to support its members, colleagues and the wider maritime sector during this crisis as the extensive search operation is carried out in the Patapsco River.”

The MNWB is the umbrella charity for the UK Merchant Navy and the fishing fleet charity sector. Its mission is to support the provision of quality welfare services for seafarers.

It provides welfare support to its 45 constituent members. Among those are Mission to Seafarers and Stella Maris who have an international presence in Baltimore.