Fire-hit rig ship heads for port

The Viking Victor crew were picked up by helicopter

The oil industry support vessel which caught fire 20 miles north east of Aberdeen is now under tow.

Twelve crewmen were airlifted from the Viking Victor, which is being taken back to port.

Three were suffering from the effects of breathing smoke and were kept in hospital overnight. An investigation has begun into the cause of the fire.

The Montrose-registered vessel's own firefighting systems were unable to extinguish the blaze.

It broke out at about 1600 BST on Thursday in the engine room of the 44m Viking Victor, as it was making its way from Aberdeen to an oil rig.

A Sea King helicopter from RAF Lossiemouth and lifeboats from Aberdeen and Peterhead took part in the rescue operation.

The Highland Endurance is assessing the situation

Rough weather conditions caused a delay in getting a tow-line on board the Victor Viking.

BUE Viking Ltd, owners of Viking Standby Ships, said: "The Viking Victor has now been boarded by crew members of the chartered vessel Highland Endurance, which had been standing by at the location overnight and a line has been secured to tow the Viking Victor to a safe haven.

"Discussions are under way as to which port it will be returned to.

"The situation on the Viking Victor appears to have stabilised and it is in no immediate danger."

Graham Philip, chief executive of BUE Viking Ltd, said the firm would assist with the Marine Accident Investigation Branch's inquiry into the cause of the fire.