Debris from the Transocean Winner rig has been found off the coast of Lewis, according to reports.
The rig, which has since been moved, ran aground in bad weather more than two weeks ago.
Now between 30 and 40 pieces have been found broken off from the structure at Dalmore Beach.
It’s understood salvage teams are collecting the broken pieces.
The Transocean Winner was being towed from Norway to Malta on its way to Turkey.
Earlier today it was revealed a salvage expert involved in the recovery of the Costa Concordia had also assisted on the recovery of the Transocean Winner.
Deputy Secretary of State’s Representative Maritime Salvage and Intervention, Colin Mulvana, said that it’s possible that when the first storms come in, other debris may be disturbed and rest in shallow water or in/on the beach.
“The divers are working very hard to make sure that they are picking up all the bits found on site,’ he said. ‘But there may well be previously undetected debris that may appear following bad weather. A future programme of surveys will be discussed and put in place by Transocean in an effort to ensure the area is clear of debris and safe for members of the public.
“Our advice remains the same as it has from the start – please stay off the beach while the diving operation continues and while the Temporary Exclusion Zone is still in place.
“We know that surfers and walkers, including those with dogs, use Dalmore Bay and will continue to use it after the diving operation is over and the TEZ has been lifted. We’d just like them to be aware of the possibility of debris washing up over the next few months. Just keep an eye out, particularly after stormy weather for anything unusual. If you do, don’t try to pick it up, just call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”