A SENIOR UK Government minister has praised Ferguson's as 'world class' after visiting the shipyard on a fact-finding mission.

Earlier this year it was confirmed that the Port Glasgow yard will be building the world’s first zero emission car and passenger ferry powered entirely by hydrogen from

renewable sources.

Shipping minister Nusrat Ghani came to Port Glasgow to hear about the innovative project and see the multi-million pound investments made at the yard since it was rescued from administration in 2014 by billionaire Jim McColl.

She was taken on a tour of the ships in-build, meeting tradesmen and women involved in projects like the Glen Sannox Arran ferry.

She also heard about the yard's ambitions for the future, including its involvement in the pioneering HySeas III hydrogen ferry in conjunction with the University of St Andrews.

Minister Ms Ghani said: "These world class facilities will ensure it is well positioned to make the advances that will help the maritime industry move towards zero-emissions.

"The maritime sector is one of Scotland's most important industries and this investment will play a significant part in the future success of the wider economy.

"The government is focussed on delivering Maritime 2050, which will set a vision for growth of the maritime sector over the next 30 years and what is being done here in Scotland is an important first step.”

Ferguson Marine has seen £25m of investment since it was taken over by Clyde Blowers in 2014.

The current workforce is around 350-strong and includes 38 apprentices.

The Port yard's transformation has paved the way for its achievements in green propulsion technology, including successful delivery of the world’s first diesel-electric hybrid ferries.

Ferguson chief executive Gerry Marshall said: “We now have one of the most innovative and competitive shipyards in Europe which is capable of delivering ground-breaking projects for Inverclyde, Scotland, UK and beyond.

"Our hydrogen-powered ferry is a living example of how it can be possible for the UK to lead the world in the development of disruptive marine technologies that will make a significant contribution to the efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by the maritime sector.”