So far around 40 pieces of debris have been discovered and the divers are currently working to recover the debris which ranges in size from small 1 foot objects to full length scaffolding poles with one piece suspected to weight around 90kgs. According to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, all pieces which have been recovered will be stored temporarily at Carloway.

A representative for the Deputy Secretary of State for Maritime Salvage and Intervention, Colin Mulvana hinted at the possibility that other debris may now rest in shallow water and possibly even have landed in/on the beach around Dalmore.

“The divers are working very hard to make sure that they are picking up all the bits found on site,” he said. “But there may well be previously undetected debris that may appear following bad weather. A future program of surveys will be discussed and put in place by Transocean in an effort to ensure the area is clear of debris and safe for members of the public.”

“Our advice remains the same as it has from the start – please stay off the beach while the diving operation continues and while the Temporary Exclusion Zone is still in place.”

“We know that surfers and walkers, including those with dogs, use Dalmore Bay and will continue to use it after the diving operation is over and the TEZ has been lifted. We’d just like them to be aware of the possibility of debris washing up over the next few months. Just keep an eye out, particularly after stormy weather for anything unusual. If you do, don’t try to pick it up, just call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.”

Even though the Transocean Winner was safely towed away from the scene of the incident last week, a temporary exclusion zone remains in effect around the grounding area. Further assessments continue to take place.