A reported storm with five meter swells caused the Carrier to run aground in North Wales

The 269ft German cargo ship "Carrier", registered in Antigua and Barbuda, ran aground yesterday after hitting rocks in bad weather near Colwyn Bay, North Wales.

While loading limestone at the jetty the ship hit rocks during a reported five meter storm swell.

Carrier, with a cargo of stones, remains in one piece but authorities are growing in their concern that it may spill the reported 35 metric tonnes (mt) of fuel it has on board.

Rescuers reported smelling fuel around the ship which is laying on the beach.

Seven Polish crew members were rescued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Royal Navy during a dramatic five hour rescue involving helicopters and life boats.

An MCA representative has said they are not sure why the vessel ran aground and are making plans to refloat it.

Welsh authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation, monitoring environmental concerns.