WESTERN Ferries’ new vessels have arrived on the Clyde and will soon go into service.

The MV Sound of Seil and the MV Sound of Soay sailed in on Friday morning after a 20 hour voyage from Cammell Laird’s yard in Birkenhead, where they were built.

The vessels were crewed by Western Ferries’ employees during the trip, and will now undertake a number of trial voyages before beginning operations between McInroy’s Point and Hunter’s Quay.

Western’s managing director, Gordon Ross, said the delivery of the ships marked the end of many months of hard work and commitment by Cammell Laird and Western Ferries.

He said: “I’m now looking forward to being one of the first passengers on their maiden voyages. The vessels will enable our customers to benefit from the increased deck space and to experience the improved passenger areas and facilities.

“These new vessels are a proud statement of Western Ferries’ commitment to its customers, employees and the communities it serves “They represent the latest stage of the company’s ongoing process of improving its service through new vessels, increased frequencies and additional vehicle capacity.

“These new vessels are also substantially more fuel efficient and produce lower exhaust gas emissions.” He added: “From Western Ferries’ humble beginnings 40 years ago, the company now has the most modern fleet operating on the Clyde.

“All four vessels are British built, and they have been designed specifically for our service between Dunoon and Gourock.

“With these new vessels, everyone associated with the company can now look forward to the next 40 years.”