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17 Nov 2025
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17 Nov 2025
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An investigation has been launched after an off-shore worker died following an incident on a North Sea drilling rig.
Online tributes have named Lee Hulse, 32, as the worker who died while working on the Valaris 121 on Shell’s Shearwater platform, about 140 miles east of Aberdeen.
The incident took place at 4.40am on Friday, and an investigation will be led by Police Scotland and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Police say the death is not being treated as suspicious.
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 4,40am on Friday, 14 November, 2025, we received a report of the death of a 32-year-old man on a drilling rig in the North Sea.
“The death is not being treated as suspicious. The Health and Safety Executive has been informed and a report has been submitted to the procurator fiscal.”
A Shell spokesperson said: “We are deeply saddened by the death of a crew member on Valaris 121, which was working at our Shearwater platform in the North Sea. We are providing support to Valaris following the incident.
“Our thoughts are very much with the crew member’s family and colleagues.”
An HSE spokesperson added: “We are aware of the incident and will be investigating alongside Police Scotland.”
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Mr Hulse’s family pay for his funeral costs.
A statement on the page says: “Tragically and very suddenly Lee has lost his life.
“Leaving behind his family that loved him the most. No family, partner or friends are ever prepared for this type of loss.
“Lee always looked after his family and all his friends … So this is our turn to make sure we look after him and give him the best send off that he deserves and make sure his daughter is well looked after.
“Christmas is also approaching and I want it to be one less thing for them to worry about.”
Torry-based White Cockade Football Club, which was founded by Mr Hulse, posted a tribute to him on Facebook: “It’s with the greatest sadness that today we have lost our very own Lee Hulse.
“Lee was one of the good ones someone who would go above and beyond for absolutely anyone and it echoes throughout the Torry community today with beautiful tributes posted by many today.
“Just shows he really was one of a kind. He also leaves behind an incredible legacy in our community as the founder of White Cockade Football Club.
“From what started out as a pipe dream, Hulse turned into reality. What he started has brought so many people together and will continue to do so for years to come.”
The club statement added: “Lee made a difference. He’ll be missed more than words can say. Rest in peace, mate.”
Valaris was approached for comment.
Mr Hulse’s GoFundMe can be accessed at https://www.gofundme.com/f/lee-hulse.
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