NEW information signs installed alongside the replica of the Port Glasgow-built paddle steamer Comet are helping bring more than 200 years of maritime history to life.
The signs have been unveiled beside the full-sized model of the famous vessel, which was revealed during the town's annual Comet Festival in June.
Constructed in the town more than 200 years ago, the original Comet was Europe's first commercially successful steamship and played a key role in establishing the Clyde as a global hub of shipbuilding and innovation.
The new replica replaces an earlier model built in 1962 to mark Comet's 150th anniversary, which was removed in 2023 after its wooden structure was deemed irreparable.
Designed by specialist display maker Aivaf, the new version is a static model built from stainless steel and rot-resistant timber to ensure longevity.
Now, a series of accompanying interpretation panels has been installed to provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the vessel's history and significance.
Councillor Chris Curley, chair of the Port Glasgow Town Centre Regeneration Forum, told the Tele: "The signs are designed to be modular, so they can be changed at any point in time.
"They also have a lot of information from the original drawings which is hugely important. Some of the signs have a sketch on them which we think was actually sketched by John Wood himself.
"We are trying to tell a story, and if the story changes then these signs have been built to evolve with that."
It is hoped QR codes can be incorporated onto the boards in the future, allowing visitors to access additional historical information, photographs and digital content through their smartphones.
The signs have also been specifically designed so that information can be updated, expanded or amended at any point.
Their modular format means new discoveries, research or historical interpretations can be incorporated without replacing the entire display.
Council leader Stephen McCabe explained that the installation marks a significant part of the town's heritage.
He added: "This is a part of heritage that we are keen to keep alive. The signs are designed to tell a story and we hope that it will attract locals to come down to visit it.
"We want to preserve and protect our heritage. We have spent a lot of money on this project and we did that because The Comet is an important part of our history that we are extremely proud of."
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