Boat blast victim almost ready to return to work

Friday, November 21, 2008, 08:01

BUSINESSMAN David Weaver, who survived a major explosion on his catamaran, is hoping to be able to return to work by the new year.

The 52-year-old, who runs his own property maintenance business, is recovering at his home on Thomas Street, Leek, after suffering severe burns to his hands, arms and legs.

Mr Weaver says he, his wife Karen and their pet parrot, Charlie, are lucky to be alive after the family catamaran exploded in flames more than two months ago.

He was working below deck with an adhesive spray when the fumes sparked a fire, which spread quickly as Mr Weaver rushed to save his 48-year-old wife and their pet.

Mr Weaver still has to go to hospital for treatment every fortnight, although doctors say he will not need skin grafts.

He is hoping to be able to return to his job by the end of the year and has vowed to buy another catamaran.

Mr Weaver said: "My legs are a lot better now although I did get an infection in my right one.

"My arms are very sore and tender and I still have to have them bandaged by nurses.

"But I am hoping I can get back to work by Christmas or the New Year."

The Weavers had to wade through thick mud as they fled the fire, because the tide was out.

They managed to haul themselves to safety shortly before their boat, a 27ft catamaran called Wandering Star, exploded.

The drama unfolded in Pwllheli harbour, north Wales, which the accomplished sailors had been using for almost 30 years.

Mr Weaver, a former goalkeeper with Leek CSOB and Churnetside, said afterwards: "We're all really lucky to be alive. All of a sudden, the boat was engulfed in flames.

"We lost everything on the boat, except our lives and that's the most important thing – it puts everything into perspective."

Mr Weaver praised rescuers and the medical staff who have treated his injuries.

A lifeboat was quickly at the scene and a helicopter arrived soon after to take him to hospital at Bangor. He was later transferred to a specialist unit near Liverpool.

Mr Weaver spent a fortnight in hospital before doctors decided he was well enough to go home.

Fire investigators have revealed that the blaze was caused by an adhesive which was ignited by a gas-powered fridge.

Fire safety enforcement officer Alan Williams said: "Boat owners and users should be aware of the dangers of LPG and fuel in boats."