FERGUSON'S shipyard in Port Glasgow has handed a new ferry over to its owners six weeks ahead of schedule.

The firm today confirmed it has delivered MV Catriona to Caledonian Maritime Assets Ltd.

The 43-metre-long hybrid powered roll-on, roll-off ferry, which was launched last December and is now plying CalMac's Claonaig to Lochranza in Arran crossing, follows two sister vessels previously built at the Port yard.

She is equipped with the latest technology in low-carbon diesel electric and lithium ion battery propulsion and can accommodate 150 passengers and 23 cars or two heavy goods vehicles.

Liam Campbell, managing director of Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd, said: “We started this project in September 2014 and at that time, we had around 70 people in a yard that needed some major refurbishment. Now, our state of the art facility is almost complete and we have over 300 valued employees including 35 apprentices.

"To deliver on time and to such a high standard gives us the best opportunity to be successful in the commercial market. We recognise and understand the importance of 'on time' deliveries for the owners and are fully committed to this.

“To deliver our first vessel ahead of schedule puts us firmly on the shipbuilding map and confirms to the industry that we are indeed a shipyard that delivers on our promise. There has been significant investment in the yard but our workforce remains our most valued asset and it is a testament to their skill and determination that we have achieved this fantastic success.”

Jim Anderson, of CMAL, added: “We are very pleased with the quality of Catriona and that FMEL delivered the vessel early.

"What a fantastic result for a yard that was closed two years ago. We are building another two vessels here in Fergusons and we already see the productivity and efficiency gains the new shipbuilding techniques and facility is providing. This is a great achievement for Ferguson's and we wish them continued success in the future.”