Workers winched to safety after gas platform is hit by ship
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.RAF Sea King helicopters winched 109 workers from a North Sea gas platform yesterday after a factory fishing ship crashed into one of its legs.
RAF Sea King helicopters winched 109 workers from a North Sea gas platform yesterday after a factory fishing ship crashed into one of its legs.
An air and sea rescue operation was launched after the 28,000-ton Marbella hit the platform, in the Rough gasfield 27 miles off the coast of East Yorkshire, in foggy conditions. Workers were lifted off and taken to a waiting tanker, the Norwegian-registered Navion Europa. The Marbellawas escorted back to the Humber by coastguard lifeboat. No injuries were reported.
A spokeswoman for the US energy company Dynegy Storage, which runs the platform, said: "They are all fine. They are being taken to a local hotel where they will be offered a meal and accommodation if needed. The men are just feeling a little tired and all they want to do is get home to their families."
One of the men lifted off the platform, Bill Dimmick, 43, said: "We heard the impact and the shudder lasted for three to five seconds. The evacuation was carried out very, very well."
At the time of the accident the platform was shut down for maintenance and the company said there had been no gas leaks. The structure was gashed above the waterline but damage has yet to be assessed. The Health and Safety Executive and the Marine Accident Investigation Branch have been informed.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments