A FORMER councillor has weighed into the row over the fate of the Comet replica in Port Glasgow and told of his sadness at the shipbuilding town losing such heritage.

Jim Hunter's interest in the famous vessel was re-ignited recently after he found a book gifted to him, published by Port Glasgow Town Council, to celebrate the launch of the replica in 1962, to mark the 150th anniversary of Europe's first commercial steamship.

The book gives a fascinating insight into the scale of the week-long celebrations, which included an exhibition, open air concerts and dancing, school competitions, a civic dinner, a gala parade with floats and uniformed youth organisations prior to the launch which was covered by newspapers, TV and cinema.

Provost Walter Lucas in his preface to the book wrote: 'The new Comet, it is hoped will eventually form the centre piece of a civic museum in Port Glasgow.'

Jim, 90, says it is terrible that instead the replica launched more than 60 years ago with such spectacle has now been dismantled and removed from its site in the centre of the town after being condemned due to neglect.

Greenock Telegraph: Jim Hunter

He said: "It is awful losing such an important part of history, I am a great believer in retaining it.

"I saved the McPherson Fountain and the Eastern School Bell in Gourock.

"I have read and re-read this book and there were thousands at the launch ceremony. All the schools took part. Where are all these people who were prizewinners at school then? Why did they not fight to save the Comet?"

The highlight of the celebrations came on Saturday September 1 ,1962, when the ship was launched from Lithgow's Kingston Basin, before it embarked on its maiden voyage across the water to Helensburgh.

Traffic came to a halt within the town as a large procession started from Woodhall with naval and military contingents, youth and community floats.

Bands played as guests kitted out in 19th attire boarded and by the time they reached Helensburgh more than 200 craft accompanied the Comet.

The return journey was even more spectacular with 15,000 people turning out to welcome her back, amid car horns horns blaring and a spectacular fireworks display.

The book also contains a detailed drawing of the replica plans.

Jim said: "This book shows how important it was. It is so sad to have let the Comet go when thousands of people came to see its launch and all these schools took part.

"I had an idea, perhaps through the schools, to make radio controlled models, and sail them in the pond in the town centre. It would keep its history alive."

The council has set up a group which is looking into the costs of what is being described as 'a full-scale representation' to replace the Comet.

A new update to councillors on the project says group members are exploring options , with advice currently being sought from a specialist materials sculptor.

The matter will be discussed at a Municipal Buildings meeting next week.