Mock oil spill exercise tests agencies in Falmouth

The multi-agency exercise is taking place between Wednesday and Friday in Falmouth

A major exercise is taking place to prepare for possible oil spills.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) is testing the response of a number of agencies to a mock scenario where fuel is spilled off Falmouth, Cornwall.

The mock incident takes place between Wednesday and Friday. Bosses said no oil would be used in the exercise.

The MCA said the response was designed to protect people, the shore and properties.

Stan Woznicki, Maritime and Coastguard Agency head of counter pollution and salvage, said: "Large-scale training exercises ensure that our teams, partner organisations and colleagues can put their expertise to the test in a simulated real world scenario.

"It will field test our pollution containment and recovery equipment, our flexibility in response and our ability to manage the logistical complications that often arise when multiple organisations and resources work together closely."

The exercise has been developed by the MCA.