Damaged North Sea oil tanker draws in shipwatchers

Stena Immaculate arrived at Great Yarmouth's outer harbour on Friday

The fire-damaged oil tanker that was hit by a cargo ship in the North Sea in March is attracting ship spotters and photographers during its stay in Great Yarmouth.

Stena Immaculate was at anchor off Bridlington when it was hit by container ship Solong.

The massive resulting fire caused significant damage to both vessels.

Steve Fox, 68, from Lowestoft, who went to see the tanker, said: "We all want to see the gritty bit. It's history, isn't it? It's news."

Steve Fox said he was hoping to record part of the history of the shipping accident

On Monday, the Russian captain of the Solong, Vladimir Motin, appeared in court, charged with gross negligence manslaughter following the death of one crew member. No plea has yet been entered.

Solong was taken to Aberdeen for inspection while Stena Immaculate arrived in Great Yarmouth last week.

Molly Lewis was taking pictures of Stena Immaculate on her new camera

Molly Lewis, 21, from Great Yarmouth, was another one taking pictures.

"It's definitely interesting to see and it's something we don't have very often, so it's out of the ordinary," she said.

Paul Radford said he thought Great Yarmouth was becoming a dumping ground for the maritime industry

Paul Radford, 57, from Brundall, said he had pulled up with his mother to enjoy an ice cream, and had not made the trip specifically to see the ship.

"They treat Yarmouth like a dumping ground," he said.

"I've got no argument if they bring it here and local people are working on it, but if they're not I can't see the point."

A spokesperson for Crowley, Stena Immaculate's shipping agent, said: "The vessel will be at lay berth for inspections until a final destination is determined.

"We don't have any detail at present as to where that will be or the specific timeline.

"Crowley's focus is on ensuring the ongoing inspection process it is conducted thoroughly and with safety in mind."