TWO North Sea oil vessels whose anchors lost tension in storm-force winds are now safe, as efforts to stabilise them continue.
The operation began on Friday when two linked storage vessels suffered problems about 118 miles east of Aberdeen.
The tanker Apollo Spirit, which is storing 96,300 tonnes of oil, lost tension in one of her eight anchors but is said to have remained securely in position.
The Petrojarl Banff, with 4,400 tonnes of crude oil, lost tension in five of 10 anchors and moved up to 270 yards from its operational position at the height of the storm.
She is now said to be stable, about 75 yards from her original location.
The vessels are operated by Teekay Petrojarl on behalf of CNR International.
The UK Government’s Department of Energy and Climate Change said there were no reports of pollution.
Hugh Shaw, the secretary of state’s representative for maritime salvage and intervention, said all 67 people on board the two vessels were accounted for and safe and there have been no reports of any pollution.
The Scottish environment secretary, Richard Lochhead, said he was being kept informed of developments.
A spokesman for CNR International said: “The Apollo Spirit remains in station and is secure. The Petrojarl Banff remains in position via its secure moorings and under its own power.
“All operations remain shut down and all wells are shut in.
“CNR International is working with all relevant authorities, including the Coastguard. No pollution is evident and there is no imminent pollution threat.”