A new oil tanker is making its way to the Coryton oil refinery in Essex. The refinery’s future was cast into doubt when owners Petroplus filed for insolvency at the end of January.Coryton’s administrators PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) said the new oil will keep the plant in action while potential buyers are considered.

Steven Pearson, joint administrator and PwC partner said: “An oil tanker is now heading towards Coryton and will replenish crude stocks refined over the last 11 days. This purchase means we are able to continue refining operations whilst we seek to conclude discussions and negotiations with parties looking to continue refining at Coryton in the immediate term.”

At least 40 parties have expressed an interest in the Coryton refinery, according to Energy Minister Charles Hendry.