Rescuers scale back search for missing oil rig worker

RESCUE services have scaled back a search for a man who has gone missing from an oil platform in the North Sea.

Police Scotland received a report around 9.20pm on Tuesday that the 49-year-old man could not be located on board the Noble Lloyd Noble installation, in the Mariner Field approximately 90 miles east of Shetland.

Following initial searches of the installation, a rescue effort involving a helicopter, the Coastguard, two supply vessels and a platform supply vessel began.

Rescue vessels were continuing to search, but the main effort ended last night.

A team of officers led by Detective Inspector Norman Stevenson were flown offshore to carry out inquiries and assist the installation.

Mr Stevenson said: “An extensive search has been carried out taht has involved a search and rescue helicopter as well as standby vessels and a platform supply vessel.

“The next of kin of the man have been informed of the continuing inquiries and further information will be made available to the public when we have it.

“There are no apparent suspicious circumstances.”

Noble Drilling, which operates the rig on behalf of Statoil, said it had mobilised emergency response teams to help in the search.

A spokesman added: “Statoil vessels have been involved in an extensive search of the water surrounding the rig and together we will continue to do everything we can to support the ongoing search effort.

“Our priorities are the safety of all the personnel on board, assisting in the search operation for the missing person and supporting next of kin and colleagues of the missing person.”