A LITTLE girl who helped stop children going hungry last Christmas has shared a special hug with the First Minister.

Big-hearted Cassie Murphy was chosen by Ferguson’s to present Nicola Sturgeon with a bouquet of flowers at the big launch of their new dual-fuel ferry.

The six-year-old was joined by her mum Louise Larkin, an apprentice draftswoman with the firm.

It was a day of celebration for the Port Glasgow shipyard as MV Glen Sannox, the first part of a £97 million pound order, took to the water.

Large crowds watched on as Scotland’s First Minister sent her down the slipway — and Cassie got a perfect view after making her presentation.

Louise, aged 27, from Tweed Road, said: “Cassie was over the moon to be a flower girl. Nicola Sturgeon was lovely to her and gave her a big cuddle.

“She seemed like a lovely person. It was a great day and we felt very proud to be a part of it.

“Cassie was so excited.”

Cassie, dressed beautifully in a matching red coat and shoes, rivalled the First Minister for style at the launch.

The Tele told last year how the youngster had organised a local foodbank collection to help feed needy families over the festive period.

She handed over hundreds of food parcels after her appeal received the generous support of the Ferguson’s workforce.

Now Louise hopes that taking part in the launch can inspire Cassie to dream big — and even follow in her footsteps.

Louise added: “My apprenticeship is one of the best things to ever happen to me. I love coming into work every day.

“The launch was a big moment for Ferguson’s. There was a massive build up and it was amazing for us all to be involved.
“It was a real family affair for me because my granddad, father and brother were all there as well.”