Five jailed over Costa Concordia shipwreck disaster

The Costa Concordia capsized near the western coast of Italy in January 2012. Credit: Anita Hirschbeck/DPA/Press Association Images

Five workers from the cruise firm that operated the Costa Concordia have been jailed for manslaughter following last year's shipwreck off the coast of Italy.

The cruise ship struck rocks and capsized off the Italian coast in January last year, killing 32 passengers and crew.

There were around 40 Britons on board but all of them escaped.

Today five employees pleaded guilty to charges of manslaughter and negligence.

But the trial of the ship's captain continues.

The five who were jailed received sentences ranging from 18 months to almost three years after agreeing plea bargains.

Roberto Ferradini, the crisis coordinator of Costa Cruises, received the longest stretch of two years and 10 months.

The ship's hotel director, two bridge officers and a helmsman were the others sentenced.

The trial of Concordia's infamous captain Francesco Schettino, who stands accused of causing the accident, has been adjourned while further tests on the doomed ship are carried out.