In pictures: Spanish oil slick

An oil slick threatens Spain's north-western coast as salvage teams battle the elements to try to hold together a tanker which got into difficulties five days ago.

Although the Prestige has been moved further out to sea, major concerns remain

Work to protect Galicia's wildlife and fisheries from the worst of the oil continues

But despite best efforts, thick black sludge has come ashore (picture: AP)

The slick has so far affected many kilometres of picturesque shoreline.

Help is on hand for some birds caught up in the black gooey mess, but there are fears more will fall victim

The crew were safely taken off the vessel last week, and its master is in Spanish custody

But there are now fears the Prestige could break up, shedding thousands more tonnes of oil