Workers are being removed from a North Sea platform due to safety fears over weather conditions caused by Storm Caroline.

CNR International made the decision as the Met Office predicts Thursday will see wind gusts of up to 80 mph and large waves.

A total of 69 of the 159 staff on Ninian South, about 240 miles from Aberdeen, are leaving the structure as a precaution.

A CNR International spokeswoman said: "CNR International (UK) Limited advises that, due to an adverse weather forecast during the coming days, it has commenced a precautionary down-man of non-essential personnel from its Ninian Southern platform.

"This is in accordance with existing procedures developed to safely manage the structural integrity of the Ninian Southern jacket.

"CNR International has been carrying out remedial work on the platform's jacket structure and assurance activities are ongoing to confirm their effectiveness.

"There are storm conditions forecast for the coming weekend, therefore, in order to ensure the safety of all personnel on board, the company has taken the decision to partially down-man Ninian Southern as a precaution.

"The safety of the personnel on board the platform is of paramount importance for the company."

A total of 90 essential staff will remain on the platform.