PICTURE 1: IN uncertain times, before new life was breathed into Ferguson’s by billionaire Jim McColl, a ship launch was not only a celebration but a time of reflection and apprehension as workers looked to the future and the chances of another ship order coming in. A launch is still a very special occasion and spectacle, and the emptiness of the slipway immediately after is a stark reminder to workers of a job done and hope of another to come. 

PICTURE 2: PHOTOGRAPHING people at their time of loss is never easy but all things should be given their place in the history archives, good or bad. At its lowest point, hopes for the survival of Ferguson’s were dashed in 2014 and, sadly, newly employed apprentices were amongst those to be laid off and I was there with camera in hand to catch this shot as the last of them left the yard shell shocked. Little did they know at this time that the seeds of a rescue plan were already being sown and would soon germinate. 

PICTURE 3: THIS picture of apprentices shows that Ferguson Marine is now a busy hive of heavy industry which has stamped its optimism on Inverclyde. The office complex of the yard is now under construction and, situated at the gateway to Inverclyde, shows promise of a bright, if cautious, shipbuilding future.

PICTURE 4: AS super-rich businessman Jim McColl stepped in to save Ferguson’s the feeling of relief and optimism was palpable, and made for some great pictures on the day. As Mr MColl faced a battery of press cameras, he insisted that the workforce join him, then, all it took was a shout for a cheer and the picture was made. 

PICTURE 5: I like this shot because I think it shows the excitement of launch day. When hybrid ferry Catriona felt the cold waters of the Clyde for the first time in 2015, following an old tradition on Clyde shipyards, children from Inverclyde schools were given a special welcome to watch the launch. Not many kids get the chance to see this wonderful event and it is hoped that many more schoolchildren witness launches in the years to come.