US logistics firm Crowley, which is the operator and joint owner of the MV Stena Immaculate, says the vessel was carrying jet fuel when it was hit by the Solong in the North Sea at approximately 10:00 GMT. All of its crew of more than 20 are now safe and accounted for - but there are fears that jet fuel is now pouring into the sea.

A container ship hit a stationary U.S.-flagged oil tanker on Monday, forcing the crews to abandon ship and raising fears about a leak of jet fuel.

The collision has raised fears of an explosion or environmental catastrophe, with rescue teams racing to the scene.