A West Kilbride photographer has captured a stunning image which shows the scale of a drill ship which came loose from its moorings last night at Hunterston.
Susan Bamford took the picture from Fairlie today which shows a minuscule lifeboat next to the massive Valaris DS4 ship, emphasising the difficulty rescue teams have had in bringing it back to its berth.
A major rescue operation was launched shortly after 7.20pm last night over fears the vessel could run aground on the isle of Cumbrae.
However, the ship’s crew deployed the anchors which have made the vessel safe despite the stormy weather.
READ MORE: Hunterston drill ship drifts towards Cumbrae sparking emergency response
The latest statement issued from HM Coastguard at 1pm today said: "The Maritime and Coastguard Agency through its counter-pollution officers and HM Coastguard continue to monitor a drill ship which broke loose from its mooring at Hunterston Terminal in Ayrshire yesterday evening (February 2).
"HM Coastguard received a mayday call just after 7.20pm after the ship, with eight crew on board, started to drift without power. The vessel was able to remain anchored off Hunterston.
“The engines have now been restored and the ship’s technical managers are working with the Port Authority to return the ship to a place of safety.
“A moored vessel at the terminal has also required assistance in the worsening weather and is currently being helped to hold its position by four tugs.
“The Girvan RNLI lifeboat, senior coastal operations officers and coastguard rescue teams from across the area remain on scene to provide support.”
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