IT'S 'plain sailing' for a local leisure boss who has been announced as new chief of the Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce.

Gavin McDonagh, managing director of Holt Leisure Parks, has taken over as president for the next two years.

Born and bred in Inverclyde, Gavin is based at Kip Marina and has worked with Holt since 1982 as company accountant, secretary, financial director and managing director.

He has been an integral part of the expansion of the Holt group of companies, which includes holiday parks, marinas, farms and a TV company.

Gavin says he will relish his latest role.

He said: "Inverclyde Chamber provides valuable services along with a range of networking initiatives to businesses of all sizes.

“I’m delighted to be taking on the role of president for the next two years, serving this dynamic, member-led organisation, which exists to support the local business community and specifically its vibrant network of member businesses."

Gavin said he will strive to do the best for the business community in the area.

He added: "The board and I are aware of the economic times that we are enduring and the hard work that will be involved in the coming years.

"However; with working proactively with Scottish Government, Westminster, Inverclyde Council and Scottish Chambers of Commerce, we can ensure that we will derive the best returns and outcome for our membership."

The business organisation’s annual general meeting and barbecue at Gourock Golf Club, was the setting for the handover from outgoing president Linda Scott who works with Toshiba.

She was the first to serve in the post as it changed its name from Greenock to Inverclyde Chamber in June 2016.

Linda said: “It has been a great privilege to hold the post of president over the past two years.

"As I continue to serve on the board as immediate past president, I wish Gavin all the very best in his two years in office as president.”

At the event, Anne Campbell, who is the assistant principal of West College Scotland, became the vice president.