A new emergency towing vessel is sailing into Scottish waters.
The Ievoli Black will arrive patrol the coastline around the country from December 31.
It was confirmed yesterday as the contract for providing tug services was awarded by the UK Government to Ardent Maritime Netherlands BV.
North politicians have repeatedly called for a second emergency towing vessel (ETV) to be reinstated to cover the west coast, but the UK Government has refused.
The 230ft Ievoli Black was previously used as an ETV in the Netherlands between 2010 and 2013.
It is currently sailing from its previous base in the Adriatic to arrive in Scottish waters in time for December 31.
It replaces the Herakles which has been based in Kirkwall for the past five years.
Unlike its predecessor the Ievoli Black will not have a permanent port and will instead patrol the waters around the north-west of Scotland and the islands.
Ministers confirmed earlier this year that they would continue to fund an ETV for the next five years after concern that the service could be scrapped completely.
A total of 22 bids were received for the contract.
UK maritime minister John Hayes MP said: “I welcome the arrival of our new tug-boat.
“Maritime safety is of the greatest importance to the UK Government.
“This Scottish ETV will stand ready to support commercial vessels which get into trouble at sea and in doing so, will safeguard the Scottish coastline.”
Northern Isles MP Alistair Carmichael said: “It is welcome news that we have a five year guarantee for the emergency towing tug. This cover is crucially important for the isles.”
