Norwegian fishing boat under tow after engine fire

Fire took hold of a Norwegian fishing boat 30 miles east of Lerwick this morning. Thirteen people were onboard the longliner Keltic when the engine-fire started shortly before 10am.

The Lerwick lifeboat was dispatched to the scene and the Sumburgh-based search and rescue helicopter was also scrambled. Weather conditions were described as being extremely windy, with gale force seven to nine winds in the area.

The fire was brought under control by noon, however.  The helicopter was also stood down. None of the crewmembers were injured in the incident.

A spokesman for Shetland Coastguard said the lifeboat was towing the vessel back to Lerwick.

However the harsh conditions are making it a slow journey.  They are not expected to arrive at Lerwick until tonight.