GREENPEACE protesters yesterday boarded a seismic testing ship berthed at Ullapool in an attempt to prevent it leaving harbour.

Six environmental activists clambered on the Atlantic Explorer, attaching themselves to various parts of the ship and erecting a banner which read, "No New Oil. Greenpeace."

The Atlantic Explorer had been due to start seismic testing for oil group Conoco.

Chris Rose, campaign director, said, "There is only one ultimate result of seismic testing and it is environmental damage-to our climate, to our ocean and to our marine wildlife.

"The planet must be defended against this senseless exploration for new oil."

Conoco last night "regretted" the Greenpeace action saying. "Conoco has always shown a willingness to discuss our activities with Greenpeace. Stunts such as this are not only potentially dangerous but are clearly not aimed at civilised debate."