A number of regional public agencies are set to hold a joint oil spill training exercise in Bordeaux Harbour later today (October 5th) as part of a routine preparedness planning programme.

Speaking to the BBC, Catherine Veron, emergency planning officer for the event, said the States Works, Guernsey Harbour and Civil Protection will all be taking part in the training session, which will involve a simulated oil spill.

"Training is an important part of preparedness and the refresher training will provide an opportunity for staff to update their skills," she said.

In October last year, emergency response teams led by Guernsey were mobilised to contain an oil spill in St Sampson's Harbour caused by a leaking oil storage tank at a generating station adjacent to the harbour.

Engineering director Steve Morris told the BBC response teams had deployed dispersants and absorbent material to contain the spill, adding that it was not expected to reach the shore.

Oil and Gas Directory: Training and Development