Politicians from across the party spectrum have paid tribute to the victims of the Piper Alpha disaster.
167 men were killed on the North Sea installation on July 6, 1988, in what remains the world’s worst offshore catastrophe.
And a series of memorial services and commemorative events are being held in Aberdeen this weekend.
First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, said on Friday: “I am thinking about the 167 people who died in the Piper Alpha disaster 30 years ago today – as well as the loved ones they left behind and all those who still live with the awful memories.
“You are all in our thoughts.”
Scottish Secretary David Mundell, Conservative, said: “My thoughts today are with the families and loved ones of the 167 people who lost their lives on Piper Alpha.
“They were fathers, sons and husbands as well as skilled North Sea workers. It showed the dangers of working off shore, and the risks faced by the skilled workers in this field.
“We must remember the loss of life and also reflect on the lessons learned to ensure such a tragedy can never happen again. We must never forget the terrible disaster of Piper Alpha.”
The Scottish Labour leader, Richard Leonard, added: “This is a day to remember the 167 men who did not come home from their work, its impact on their families, the region and the industry.
“Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of those lost.”
Gilian Martin, the SNP MSP, said: “This day on every year, we remember those who lost their lives on Piper Alpha and those whose lives were affected by their tragic loss.
“We will never forget them not after 30 years, not ever.
And Dame Anne Begg, Labour, added: “Piper Alpha’s shadow has never gone away. It never will.
“I still have a strong memory of attending the 25-year anniversary in Hazlehead Park.
“It was a beautiful hot day which, ironically, emphasised the poignancy of the event. The years hadn’t dimmed the memories and it served as a reminder of the enormity of the disaster.”
