Two more bodies have been recovered from the Costa Concordia cruise ship wreckage, bringing the total death toll to 15. At least a further 17 people are missing.

Meanwhile as the search operation continues, Italian authorities are preparing to pump fuel from the wreck as experts confirmed the ship is now stable, according to reports.

The vessel capsized on Friday 13th January with more than 4,200 people on board after it smashed into rocks off the coast of Isola del Giglio.

Investigators are still examining the causes of the sinking.

Francesco Schettino, captain of the vessel, is being detained under house arrest while his actions are investigated. He is accused of multiple manslaughter.