Nuclear-powered sub that ran aground set to return to base

A NUCLEAR-POWERED submarine that ran aground off the coast of Skye was making its way back to base for further checks yesterday.

HMS Astute had become stuck during sea trials on Friday in a channel between the island and the Scottish mainland.

The vessel, Britain’s most powerful attack submarine, remained on view from 8am until the tide turned in the evening when it was freed by a tug.

The Ministry of Defence said checks of the sub’s rudder, which is thought to have become stuck on a shingle bank, were carried out in deeper water. Astute will now return to base.