A cargo ship which ran aground on the west Highland shoreline yesterday is leaking diesel oil.
An absorbant boom has been placed round the shed around the Lybslink Seaway vessel, which remains aground at Kilchoan on the Ardnamurchan peninsula.
The 400ft boat, laden with paper, was left high and dry yesterday after heading straight on instead of turning west for the Minch en route to Skogn in Norway.
None of the nine crew on board the vessel was injured.
A spokeswoman for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency said: “There has been a further release of diesel oil from the Lysblink Seaway, which remains aground at Kilchoan.
“Following discussions between the Secretary of State’s representative Hugh Shaw and Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s Counter-Pollution, an absorbent boom has been put in to cope with the oil leak from the starboard side of the vessel.
“Weather conditions have moderated slightly this morning making it easier to use equipment.
“Briggs Marine vessels Forth Jouster and Kingdom of Fife are on scene and are supporting the salvage operation.
“A team from Svitzer Salvage is currently on board the vessel conducting a detailed damage assessment.
“Initial findings and salvage options will be reported to Mr Shaw and the wider Salvage Control Unit, later this afternoon.
“A temporary exclusion zone of 100m has been established around the vessel.”