The Lysblink Seaways is going to be moved this afternoon after a successful ship-to-ship transfer of the fuel oil.

Hugh Shaw, the Secretary of State’s Representative for Maritime Salvage & Intervention has authorised the move which was scheduled to begin around 2pm today.

As bad weather has been forecast for the coming days, a risk assessment has been carried out and the decision taken to move the vessel into a more sheltered position.

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In total 153 tons of fuel was pumped from the Lysblink Seaways onto the tug Kingdom of Fife earlier today.

The Kingdom of Fife will now tow the Lysblink Seaways out of Mingary Bay which is 1.5 miles east of Kilchoan Pier to safe anchorage in Scallastle Bay.

It will take between four and a half to five hours to complete the 17 mile journey. The temporary exclusion zone of 200 metres will still apply to the vessel while she is being moved.

This decision has the full support of the Scottish Environment Group and Marine Scotland.

The Emergency Towing Vessel (ETV) Herakles will remain on standby but will be released once the Lysblink Seaways is in a safe position.