A RAF rescue helicopter completed a 436-mile round trip to take the sick crewman from the oil platform to Aberdeen hospital after bad weather grounded nearer aircraft.

Because of the severe weather conditions in the north, rescue helicopters at Shetland and at RAF Lossiemouth were grounded, but RAF Boulmer, in Northumberland, offered an aircraft.

Jim Dickson, Aberdeen Coastguard watch manager, said, "The weather front is now moving north and has allowed the helicopter to undertake this urgent task.

"We are especially grateful to the crew in undertaking this long medical evacuation in such adverse conditions."