Knab called into action as fishing boats break moorings

Two fishing vessels broke from their moorings at Lerwick Harbour this morning and drifted towards the NorthLink ferry Hjaltland, as the first of the wintry weather began to bite with severe gales and blustery snow showers.

The Starlight and the Starlight Ray drifted around 100 metres after breaking free from their mooring lines at Holmsgarth shortly after 7am

Port officials immediately sent the pilot boat Knab to put a line on the vessels and get them under control. They have since been secured at Victoria Pier.

Lerwick harbour master Calum Grains said the crew of the Hjaltland had put out extra fenders to protect the vessel.

“We dispatched the Knab up to get a hold of them and they are now berthed down at Victoria Pier.

“They drifted in the order of about 100 metres. It was down towards the Hjaltland and touching alongside the Hjaltland when the Knab got there and got them out of there.”