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Crew abandon ship after striking
rocks near the Skerries
MoD-contracted vessel comes
to grief on the rocks
A vessel contracted by the MoD, used to pick up RAF personnel who
have parachuted into the water in exercises, hit the rocks near the
Skerries today and was abandoned by her crew.
At 10 minutes to 11
a.m. this morning Holyhead Coastguard received a call from the 1989
built SMIT CYMYRAN classed as a research survey vessel whose 6
crew reported that she was up on East Platters rocks, east of the
Skerries.
A rescue helicopter was launched from RAF Valley and the Holyhead
Lifeboat was also requested to launch. The Coastguard began
broadcasting a mayday relay into the area for other vessels to respond
if nearby and the tug `Switzer alongside in harbour responded.
Holyhead Coastguard Rescue Team were also turned out to watch for
pollution.
All crew were winched from the 26 metre vessel by a search and rescue
helicopter which was under training at the time to the Skerries before
they were airlifted by R122 back to the helicopter landing site next
to the Holyhead Coastguard Station. The vessel now appears to be
listing 30 degrees to port, although later reports suggest that vessel
may now be afloat on the rising tide.
Initial reports suggest that there is 6 tons of gas oil on board but
there have been no indications of any pollution sighted. Various pumps
have now been transferred by helicopter and lifeboat to the vessel.
Two salvage tugs are currently on their way to the site of the
incident to assist.
The vessel is operated by Smit International (Scotland) Ltd and is
owned by Royal Bank Leasing, according to Equasis.
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