A BOAT seized by police following a tragic incident at Bournemouth beach that left two children dead has now been sold.

The Dorset Belle was at the centre of a major police investigation earlier this month.

The pleasure boat was impounded at Cobbs Quay Marina, Poole, with officers carrying out examinations.

Island Cruises ran cruises which stopped at Bournemouth Pier.

Earlier today, the firm announced it has sold the Dorset Belle.

Bournemouth Echo: The Dorset Belle in PooleThe Dorset Belle in Poole (Image: PA)

A statement posted on social media, states: “Unfortunately, due to the circumstances currently surrounding the Dorset Belle, the only option available to Island Cruises is to sell her to avoid liquidation of the company, the bills have been mounting up and need to be paid, the lack of money due to the vessel not operating has been a major factor in this heartbreaking decision.

It goes on to say: “We have owned her for almost 5 years, made it through Covid and the recession but the last few weeks have been too much financially and mentally with lots of sleepless nights. I have searched for a solution to keep her operating from Bournemouth but have drawn a blank. She was handed over to her new owners this afternoon, she will be deeply missed by us all. On a positive note, her new owners are already spending time on her to get her ready for the remainder of the summer, we all wish them the very best for the future.”

Earlier today, the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) said it would not be formally investigating the deaths of Joe Abbess and Sunnah Khan.

A spokesperson for the agency said it was understood the incident surrounding their deaths did not involve a vessel.