SHETLAND COASTGUARD MONITORING SHIP IN LOPNESS BAY

Shetland Coastguard are currently monitoring the ‘Antigone Z’, a ‘reefer’ ship which went to an anchorage at Lopness Bay in Shetland early this morning. The vessel’s crew are endeavouring to fix a problem with a fuel pump and she also suffered a 8 degree list after 30 to 40 pallets of frozen fish moved in poor weather.

 The 1969 built, 72 metre vessel with 10 people aboard was bound for Klaipeda in Lithuania and had engineering problems in northwesterly winds of occasionally force 6 to 7 with 3 metre, rough seas.

Through an interpreter the Russian crew have been keeping the Coastguard informed as the day has progressed and the Coastguard helicopter from Sumburgh was also requested to overfly the scene. The Coastguard tug has also gone to standby the vessel whilst the crews effect their repairs.

Katrina Hampson, Duty Watch Manager said

“We are keeping a close eye on the vessel and they have indicated that it will take about 24 hours to sort out their problems on board. They are using on board fork lift trucks to move the cargo around the cargo bays which shifted in the recent poor weather whilst engineers work on the fuel pump.”

Notes to Editors

• The MCA is a partner in the Sea Vision UK campaign to raise awareness and understanding of the sea and maritime activities. Sea Vision promotes the importance and economic value of the sector and works to highlight the exciting range of activities and career opportunities available to young people within the UK growing maritime sector. www.seavisionuk.org

• • Stay safe - before heading out on the water get trained, check weather and tides, wear a lifejacket, avoid alcohol and keep in touch

• Follow us on Twitter. Find us at MCA_media

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