SOUTHPORT CORPORATION v. ESSO PETROLEUM COMPANY, LTD.

[1954] 1 Lloyd's Rep. 446

COURT OF APPEAL.

Before Lord Justice Singleton, Lord Justice Denning and Lord Justice Morris.

Negligence-Oil pollution of coastal waters-Res ipsa loquitur-Highway-Nuisance-Trespass -Stranding of ship in river estuary-Jettison of oil cargo-Pollution of foreshore-Alleged negligence of master-Liability of shipowners -Cause of action in nuisance and/or trespass -Discharge of oil reasonably necessary- Stranding due to defect in steering gear- Defect due to fractured stern frame-Cause of fracture unknown-Whether onus on defendant shipowners to disprove negligence -Defect in ship not pleaded by plaintiffs, plea of negligence being directed against master-Omission due to reticence in defendants' pleading.