An investigation has been launched by marine authorities into the death of man in Newlyn last week.

The Health and Safety Executive confirmed this morning that it had made initial enquiries but had since determined the incident was not part of its remit.

Instead the Maritime Coastguard Agency and Marine Accident Investigation Branch will be leading the investigation alongside police.

A Marine Accident Investigation Branch spokesperson said: "At approximately 4.30pm on Friday, November 15 the MAIB was notified of a fatal incident on board a fishing vessel at Newlyn Harbour.

"Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family at this time.

“A team of inspectors from the MAIB is in Newlyn and is continuing their investigation into the tragic accident.

"The investigation is at a very early stage and the MAIB inspectors are focussed on gathering evidence from the scene.”

The MAIB investigates incidents to determine the causes and circumstances, in order to prevent any recurrence.

Emergency services were called to Newlyn Harbour at around 4.15pm on Friday, with the police, fire service and ambulance service all involved. The air ambulance also landed nearby.

Penlee RNLI lifeboat Ivan Ellen was later launched to bring home a family member of the man, as he had been working out at sea onboard a Newlyn trawler at the time of the tragedy.

A lifeboat spokesperson said: "During the afternoon Newlyn was rocked by the news that a local young man lost his life in a tragic accident working onboard a fishing vessel in the harbour, despite the very best of efforts from our local emergency services.

"At 9.40pm, with Newlyn Harbour Master onboard, Ivan Ellen launched.

"Penlee Lifeboat met with Newlyn beam trawler Billy Rowney five miles SE of Newlyn, transferred the skipper to the lifeboat under very sad circumstances to take him home to his family.

"All the Penlee team would like to take this opportunity to pass on our sincere and heartfelt condolences to family and friends."