Rescue under way off Isles of Scilly

A rescue operation is under way to save 111 people from a burning fishing vessel off the Isles of Scilly.

A rescue operation is under way to save 111 people from a burning fishing vessel off the Isles of Scilly.

The Athena, a factory fishing vessel, caught fire an estimated 230 miles south-west of the Isles of Scilly.

The Falmouth Coastguard is co-ordinating an air and sea rescue.

The Athena is owned by shipping company, Thor, based in the Faroe Islands and according to website ShipSpotting.com suffered an earlier fire in 2007.

A Royal navy spokeswoman said they had helicopter crews on standby to help the stricken fishing crew if necessary.

One of the navy's search and rescue helicopters has already been scrambled to assist in the rescue.

The helicopter refuelled in St Mary's, on the Isles of Scilly, and is ready to go if needed. There is also another helicopter on standby at the base in Cornwall.

PA