Workers moved from oil rig over storm fears

Severe warning for Scotland as winds of up to 80mph forecast... and snow could be on the way

Workers are being removed from a North Sea platform due to safety fears over weather conditions caused by Storm Caroline.

CNR International made the decision after the Met Office predicted northern Scotland will be hit by 80mph winds and large waves tomorrow.

A total of 69 of the 159 staff on Ninian South, about 240 miles from Aberdeen, are leaving the structure as a precaution.

A CNR International spokeswoman said: “CNR International (UK) Limited advises that, due to an adverse weather forecast during the coming days, it has commenced a precautionary down-man of non-essential personnel from its Ninian Southern platform.”

A severe weather warning has been issued by the Met Office.

A Met Office statement said: “Storm Caroline is expected to bring a spell of very windy weather to northern Scotland.

“Gusts of 60-70mph are expected quite widely, with gusts to 80mph possible near north-facing mainland coasts and across the isles.

“Road, rail, air and ferry services may be affected, with longer journey times and cancellations possible. Some shortterm loss of power and other services is possible.”

Meanwhile, snow and falling temperatures are expected to affect parts of Scotland at the end of the week as Caroline, the third named storm of the season, passes through.

A yellow snow and ice warning is in place for Friday for Scotland, Northern Ireland, western England and Wales.

Met Office spokeswoman Nicola Maxey said: “As the storm moves away towards Scandinavia it will be followed by cold air on Friday, which could bring snow.”

Wintry showers are expected to become increasingly frequent over northern Scotland late tomorrow and are expected across many other parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales and western England on Friday.