Search for missing fisherman off Orkney

A major search operation is underway to the west of Orkney this morning for a missing fisherman overboard from a trawler.

The UK Coastguard has been co-ordinating the search for the missing man after he went overboard from a fishing vessel earlier this morning.

The fishing vessel made a Mayday broadcast at approximately 7am this morning reporting that they had a man overboard 20 miles north-west of Orkney.

The UK Coastguard search and rescue helicopters based at Sumburgh and Stornoway have been searching the area.

UK Coastguard Commander Tris Newey said: “Our helicopters, along with the fishing vessel, have been searching throughout the morning in very rough weather and challenging conditions, but so far the missing man has not been located. The search is continuing.”

Stromness Lifeboat was called out just after 8am by the Coastguard to go to the assistance of the fishing vessel Apollo which had lost the man overboard.

The lifeboat left Stromness Harbour at 8.20am and encountered heavy breaking seas in Hoy Sound. Winds were westerly force 7 to 8.

After steaming north-west at reduced speed, the lifeboat was stood down by the coastguard at 9am. The fishing boat and the Coastguard helicopter continued the search.

The lifeboat returned to Stromness at 9.45am.