A NEW era of public ownership at Ferguson Marine shipyard in Port Glasgow has begun with the launch of the first of two new fishing vessels.

A 21-metre workboat for Isle of Mull-based company Inverlussa Marine Services was named at the Newark yard before being lifted into the water, pictured.

Camilla Wilson, wife of the firm's managing director, Ben Wilson, did the honours, accompanied by Scotland's finance and economy secretary, Derek Mackay.

The boat, which will be a support vessel for the country's salmon fishing industry, was named Helen Rice after Mr Wilson's great-great grandmother in keeping with the company's tradition of naming its fleet after female relatives.

It is the first launch at the yard since the Scottish Government took over the reins in December last year after the business got into financial trouble which threatened its very existence and the livelihoods of around 300 staff.

Mr Mackay said: "This is another significant milestone as we start the journey to a new sustainable future for Ferguson Marine.

"This is a Scottish-built vessel, provided to a Scottish customer and serving the needs of the Scottish aquaculture industry. "It is hugely encouraging that the yard has been able to support our island economies in this way.

"My aim for the last two years has always remained the same - to keep the yard open and not just to finish the vessels currently being built, but to secure a future for the company in the years ahead. "The high quality of the workmanship on the Helen Rice is a tribute to the skills of the Ferguson workforce."

A slightly larger second boat - a 26m, two-deck treatment vessel - is now under construction and due for delivery in June for the same client.

Mr Wilson, managing director of family-owned Inverlussa, said: "We were delighted to build this vessel in Scotland. "I would like to thank Ferguson Marine and their workforce for delivering such a well-crafted vessel.

"We're looking forward to the Helen Rice starting work providing important services to the Scottish fish farm industry. "The delivery of this vessel continues our strategy of investing in the best vessels and crew."

The naming ceremony took place at Ferguson's on Monday and the boat was lifted into the water on Wednesday during more favourable weather conditions.

Tim Hair, the shipbuilder's turnaround director, said: "After six challenging months, it's really nice to have a positive day today and show the kind of workmanship Ferguson's can achieve. "As far as Ferguson Marine is concerned, this is an important day."