The crew of a bulk carrier have been evacuated after raised temperatures were detected in the vessel’s cargo of ammonium nitrate-based fertiliser.

The Isle of Man-flagged, 56,598 dwt bulk carrier Cheshire, loaded with a full cargo of the fertiliser, was on passage from Norway to Thailand, said owner Bibby Line.

The port authority at Las Palmas denied the vessel permission to enter. It was directed to head southwards.

At around 1500 hrs on Sunday, the vessel was at a safe position 45 miles south of Gran Canaria.

Light wind conditions mean that fumes from the cargo were not being carried away from the ship, so the crew of 20 seafarers were evacuated.

Bibby Line said Cheshire was experiencing elevated temperatures in Nos 4 and 5 cargo holds. Local authorities were offering assistance and the cargo’s manufacturer had sent a representative to Las Palmas to advise on cooling.

The temperature in No 4 cargo hold has risen enough to cause damage to the hatch cover. Professional salvors, Resolve Marine, have been appointed to attend the vessel and cool the affected cargo.

An access ladder has been rigged and a stand-by tug is to stay with the vessel, which is drifting in a southerly direction away from land.

Lloyd’s List Intelligence automatic identification system data placed Cheshire 66.1 miles from the port of Arguineguin at 0155 hrs on Tuesday.

Cheshire is one of three vessels owned by Bibby Line.