Ed Punchard

Ed Punchard, a daring diver, recounts his heart-stopping experiences during the Piper Alpha disaster, bravely coordinating rescues in treacherous conditions. Bob Ballantyne, an electrician, shares his harrowing journey as he leads his fellow workers to safety through smoke-filled stairways. The conversation captures the urgency of survival amid overwhelming chaos, where lives depended on split-second decisions and the courage to leap into the unknown waters. Their gripping stories highlight the unbreakable bond among crew members facing a catastrophic inferno.

Ed Punchard, a brave survivor of the Piper Alpha disaster and author of 'Piper Alpha: A Survivor’s Story,' shares his gripping experience on the infamous oil rig during its catastrophic explosion in 1988. He reflects on the chaotic moments of the disaster and the emotional burden of rescue efforts. Punchard discusses the lasting grief within the Aberdeen community and his journey toward healing through activism and film. The conversation also touches on the critical topics of mental health, suicide, and the importance of support for survivors.