Cargo vessel now being towed back to Kirkwall Harbour

The Barbados registered cargo vessel called Skog, which was drifting off Orkney due to engine problems, is currently being towed.

After the vessel reported that it was drifting without engine power and taking in water this morning, Shetland Coastguard sent the Coastguard rescue helicopter to the scene and requested the Stromness and Kirkwall RNLI all weather lifeboats.  The Maritime and Coastguard Agency's emergency towing vessel, (ETV Herakles) was also sent to assist the vessel and an industry stand by vessel Vos Hera also attended.  

The ten crew members remain on board and pumps were transferred on board the Skog by the Coastguard helicopter.  The vessel has taken a tow line from the ETV Herakles and will be taken to port for repairs.

The vessel is a 99 metre cargo vessel carrying a cargo of paper.  The vessel is currently in a position 6.5 nautical miles east, north east from the island of Papa Westray in Orkney.  Conditions on scene are moderate to rough seas.

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