Don't panic – an oil spill alert in Weymouth Harbour is just a training exercise.

Residents are reminded this exercise will take place tomorrow near the Ferry Steps.

The Weymouth Harbour Team has arranged ‘Exercise Bowser’, part of the Maritime and Coastguard Agency’s three-yearly requirement to test if services and other organisations can respond effectively to a fuel spill.

Keith Howorth, Weymouth Harbour Master, said: “I would like to reassure people that this is just an exercise. It is important that these training exercises are carried out to make sure we are prepared in case the worst occurs. We hope any inconvenience will be minimal.”

Use of the harbour will not be restricted. Harbour users have been asked to be careful near the exercise area as booms and other equipment will be used.

Organisations taking part in the exercise include the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, Natural England, the Environment Agency, the Marine Management Organisation, the Emergency Services, Portland Port, the RSPB, the Southern Inshore Fisheries and Conservation Authority.

Adler & Allan Ltd Marine Response Team will be running the exercise, on behalf of the Weymouth Harbour Team, who will also be taking part.