The UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) has renewed Lowestoft-based Klyne Tugs contract to supply four emergency towing vessels (ETVs).
Klyne Tugs provides four ETVs for the MCA based at four locations, but patrolling a wider area. Two are based in the English Channel, at Falmouth and Dover to cover the South West approaches and the Dover Straits respectively. The Anglian Monarch at Dover is jointly funded and operated with the French Government. Two are based at Stornoway and Shetland Islands.
Making the announcement, John Astbury, Chief Executive, MCA said: "Letting of this renewed contract fulfils the Government's commitment to the provision of all-year round ETV cover and demonstrates the importance we place on preventing the loss of life and protecting the marine environment. In areas of high risk these vessels will provide the first line of response to maritime accidents and the prevention of pollution."
Toby Stone, Head of Counter Pollution at the MCA said: "Removing the threat of marine pollution is the primary role for the ETV's. Each vessel has been engaged in many operations during the existing contract where a ship has been towed to a place of refuge.”