A 4,500 tonne ship which had been drifting towards a gas platform in the North Sea is now securely under tow.Crews from Wattisham's RAF search and rescue team were involved in a dramatic airlift operation after the cargo vessel “Vindo” broke down and began drifting dangerously close to the Murdoch gas platform.

A 4,500 tonne ship which had been drifting towards a gas platform in the North Sea is now securely under tow.

Crews from Wattisham's RAF search and rescue team were involved in a dramatic airlift operation after the cargo vessel “Vindo” broke down and began drifting dangerously close to the Murdoch gas platform.

The tug 'Red Wolf' established a tow with the 'Vindo' at approximately 10:00am.

The Master of the 'Vindo' has just confirmed that the agreed destination for the vessel is the River Humber.

Humber Coastguard Watch Manager Tony Tuton said “We have maintained communications with the Master and eight crew on board the 'Vindo'.

“Everyone is relieved that the vessel is now secure and en route to the River Humber but clearly there is a considerable distance, some 100 miles, to reach the estuary. Weather conditions are still very poor with 55-63 knot winds and rough seas.”.