Hamnavoe training exercise scheduled for Scapa Flow

Orcadians are being told not to worry if they spot the Hamnavoe being towed on Tuesday.

A training exercise involving NorthLink vessel, is due to take place in Scapa Flow tomorrow.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s (MCA) emergency towing vessel, Ievoli Black, will partake in the exercise, which will see it undertake the tow of a significantly sized “disabled” vessel.

This is designed to provide a training opportunity for both the MCA and NorthLink personnel.

The exercise is due to start at 11am and will conclude in time for the Hamnavoe to resume scheduled sailings from Stromness.

In the event of an unplanned incident the exercise may not go ahead.