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Fishing ship with 111 aboard on fire off UK

(Agencies)
Updated: 2010-10-27 17:25
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LONDON - British coast guards say a factory fishing ship with 111 people aboard is on fire in the Atlantic Ocean off England's southwestern tip.

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The Maritime and Coast Guard Agency says 81 people have taken to lifeboats and 30 remain aboard the vessel Athena fighting the blaze.

It said nearby commercial vessels are heading to the area, 230 miles (370 kilometers) southwest of the Scilly Isles, on Wednesday to rescue the crew.

The 344-foot (100 meter) fish-processing ship is managed by shipping company Thor and based in the Faroe Islands.

The coast guard agency says the fire has subsided somewhat and the situation appears to be under control.