New North Sea oil discovery in Darwin field

The Abu Dhabi National Energy Company spent $1.06bn (£663m) on some of BP's North Sea assets in November 2012

A new oil field has been discovered in the northern North Sea by the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA).

The company said two columns of oil have been found since drilling began in November at the Darwin field, about 80 miles north-east of Shetland.

Leo Koot, managing director of TAQA's UK oil and gas business, said: "This discovery proves that the North Sea still has great potential."

TAQA recently agreed to buy some BP's North Sea assets for $1.06bn (£663m).

Further tests on both discoveries will now take place.

The Darwin field is a joint venture between TAQA and Fairfield Energy.

The chief executive officer of Fairfield, Chris Wright, said: "We are delighted with the excellent results from the Darwin drilling programme, which has seen one potentially significant discovery and confirmation of the areal extent of a previous discovery.

"The presence of two rigs concurrently on the location demonstrates the operational excellence and commitment of both Fairfield and TAQA, towards expediting exploration and appraisal of this important area.

"Furthermore, it demonstrates our team's strong technical ability and, with our supportive investors augurs well for further successes as we continue to grow in the months and years ahead."