Canada whale-watching: Five Britons killed after Leviathan boat sinks off Vancouver Island

21 people were rescued

Five British people have died after a whale-watching boat with 27 people on board sank off Tofino in British Colombia, Canada.

The Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond confirmed the five who died were all British.

Mr Hammond said in a statement: “It is with deep sadness that I can confirm five British nationals have lost their lives when the whale watching boat they were on sank off western Canada on Sunday.

”My thoughts are with the family and friends of all those affected by this terrible accident.

“Consular staff in British Columbia are supporting the family members of those who have died and we will remain in close contact with Canadian authorities as further information becomes available,” Mr Hammond said in a statement.

The new Canadian Prime Minister-designate Justin Trudeau also paid tribute, saying he was "shocked and saddened" by the deaths, adding: "We thank all those, including our search and rescue officials, who responded swiftly with courage and professionalism.

"I know firsthand of this coastal area's natural beauty and the many people who visit here from all around the world. My thoughts and prayers are with the passengers, the crew, and their families at this most difficult time. We will continue to offer them support in the days ahead."

One more person remains missing; the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have taken over the search for the person.

21 people were rescued following the incident, 18 of those are currently receiving treatment in hospital.

The vessel made a mayday call late Sunday afternoon on a calm, clear and sunny day off the tourist community of Tofino, on the west coast of Canada - a popular destination for whale watchers, the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre said.

It is not yet known what caused the boat to sink. Canada's Transportation Safety Board said it was investigating the boat's sinking

Additional reporting by Press Association and Associated Press