MV Catriona - Launch Day

Today we witnessed the launch of the MV Catriona - the first ship built since Jim McColl rescued the yard when things looked very dark indeed.

Since the rescue we have seen investment in infrastructure, and the rebuilding continues.

Talking to the yard workers it was clear to see that they were happy with the new scenario and the future looks and feels good.

The weather threatened prior to the launch but pleased to say we were blessed with some sunshine at the right time.

When in service she can carry 150 passengers, 23 cars, or two HGVs. She is the third ferry built at Fergusons utilising a hybrid system of diesel and battery power.

After sea trials we expect to see her in service in the summer of next year.

 Piper Plays

 Getting ready for the Launch

 Crowds start to Gather

 Rainbow

 Waiting for the Launch

 Bottom is Wet

 A Loud Cheer


In She Goes

 Local school kids enjoy this piece of History

Ready for the next One

 The man who saved the shipyard

 Launch Party

 Best View?

Battler Assists to Berth

Jim McColl with the shipyard Workers

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.com - better resolution and options to licence.

Ferguson Marine - preferred bidder for Ferries Contract

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon visited Ferguson Marine at Port Glasgow this morning.

She toured the facility and engaged with the the workers showing a keen interest in the building of the current ferry on the slipway.

She then announced to the management and workers that they were the preferred bidder for the contract to build two new Caledonian MacBrayne ferries.

First  Minister Nicola Sturgeon arriving at Ferguson Marine Shipyard

 First  Minister Nicola Sturgeon engages with Workers

 Nicola Sturgeon and Yard Owner Jim McColl

Nicola Sturgeon Looks on as Welding Progresses

Welding in Progress

 Hats Off


Celebrating

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.com - better resolution and options to licence.

Ferguson's Shipyard - First Minister Visit

Scotland's First Minister - Alex Salmond - today met with the workforce at Ferguson Shipyard in Port Glasgow.

The yard went bust last week with the loss of 70 jobs following cash-flow difficulties and a lack of orders.

He listened to their concerns during the meeting with shop stewards and employees.

Mr Salmond once again vowed that Ferguson’s would be saved.

I understand that the administrators are considering three bids for the yard.

Jim McColl - who owns the Clyde Blowers - has lodged a bid for the troubled yard and appears favourite to take over.

Hopefully a buyer can be found from the bids submitted and shipbuilding in Inverclyde can continue and go on to further success.

Ferguson Shipyard


Alex Salmond at the Yard


Leaves the Meeting to Address the Media

MSP Duncan McNeil Speaks with the Media

First Minister Speaks to the Media

Alex Salmond Interview with the BBC Crew

More images are available at - www.dougie-coull-photography.co.uk - better resolution and options to licence.