A CAMPAIGN group says it may take legal action if four so-called ghost ships docked in the North-East are allowed to stay.

Last year, the ships arrived at Able UK's Graythorp Yard, in Hartlepool, amid a wave of opposition from protestors, who claimed they carried asbestos and PCB chemicals.

They were the first of 13 due to arrive at the yard for dismantling, but a judge ruled a licence modification to allow the work was legally flawed.

In November, Environment Secretary Elliot Morley appeared before a committee of MPs to answer questions about the situation, where he said the Government was bound by EU regulations and, if the paperwork regulating the transfer of waste was not in place, then the country of origin must take them back.

The period of the year when "fragile" vessels can cross the Atlantic at the least risk starts in two weeks, yet the situation regarding the ghost ships is still no clearer.

Mike Childs, campaigns director at Friends of the Earth, last night urged the Government to clarify the legal position of the ships.

He said: "There is some confusion as to whether the boats remaining in Hartlepool is legal or illegal. The Government were of the opinion that it was illegal and now they seem to be of the opinion there is no law being broken.

"The Government has got to look at the least environmentally damaging option, either to send the ships back or keep them in Hartlepool.

"We will continue to deal with ministers and continue to press them on this.

"If the ships are still here and neither the Government or the Environment Agency are taking any action, we may consider taking legal action - though we are not keen on going down that road as it can be a lengthy process."

No one from Able was available for comment last night.