Couple’s lucky boat escape

AN Oldham couple had a lucky escape when their boat was hit by a jet ski in Turkey.

Mark Madders (21) and Joanne Brandwood (20), who both work at Sainsbury’s in Union Street, Oldham, were on their first holiday together in Marmaris, Turkey.

More than 50 British tourists were on board the Helvaci day cruise on Wednesday when the boat was hit, less than a mile from the tiny port of Kumlubuk.

The jet ski, driven by two Turkish youths, smashed into the wooden boat, leaving a gaping hole..

Skipper Solen Olgun told passengers to move to the opposite side of the vessel to keep the hole above water level and stop it sinking.

Crew members say they are constantly plagued by trouble-making jet ski riders, who attempt to spray passengers with water by turning sharply close to the boat — it is thought the riders in this case misjudged their turn.

The crew beached the boat and drafted in a second vessel to take the holidaymakers back to Marmaris while the jet skiers — one of whom suffered a broken leg — were taken ashore by a speed boat.

Janine said: “Everyone stayed calm but it was quite a shock. The captain and crew were brilliant and made sure we got back to shore safely. It certainly wouldn’t put me off another boat trip though.”

Mark added: “I can’t believe they didn’t see us, it was a great big boat.”