Black Rock Oil and Gas has been offered part of the central North Sea exploration block 22/8a with its partner Carrizo Oil and Gas in the 23rd offshore licensing round.

Black Rock has a 15 per cent interest in the block, Carrizo being the operator. Under the terms of the award, Carrizo and Black Rock are committed to acquiring seismic data to evaluate potential of the acreage.

Black Rock managing director Ivan Burgess said: ‘The award of this exploration block demonstrates the benefits of teaming up with a more established player in what has been a highly competitive process. It represents a significant addition to Black Rock's exciting portfolio of UK offshore exploration prospects.'