The families of the victims of the Flying Phantom tug boat deaths have welcomed the announcement that two companies have been indicted for trial at the High Court.

Clydeport Operations and Svitzer Marine Limited are to face charges under the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 after the deaths of three crew members of the Greenock based tug boat, the Flying Phantom, in December 2007.

Speaking on behalf of the victims widows, Thompsons Partner Andrew Henderson said: "The families are satisfied with the latest development in relation to the deaths of their loved ones but wish to await future developments before commenting further."

Mr Henderson continued: "This has been a lengthy process which has caused significant distress and created additional anguish for the families and the media is respectfully asked to be mindful of these circumstances."