A shipyard that was saved from going out of business has won its first contract to build a new ship.
Ferguson of Port Glasgow has been chosen to build a £12.3 million hybrid ferry for Caledonian MacBrayne.
The lower-Clyde yard, now renamed Ferguson Marine Engineering Ltd (FMEL), was rescued in a buyout by Clyde Blowers Capital led when it was plunged into administration in August after experiencing "significant cash-flow pressure".
The takeover, led by the tycoon Jim McColl, saved around 80 jobs with all workers at the yard being rehired.
The new vessel is expected to be launched in spring 2016. It will use a low carbon hybrid system that combines traditional diesel power with electric battery power and will accommodate 150 passengers, 23 cars or two HGVs, with a service speed of nine knots.
Announcing the news, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who currently standing for the SNP leadership, said: "This announcement is a real vote of confidence in shipbuilding on the Clyde and a significant step forward for Ferguson Marine Engineering Limited.
"This investment not only provides support to the shipbuilding industry on the Clyde, but also underlines our commitment to investing in cutting-edge technology to make our ferries sustainable and reliable.
"This will be the third hybrid ferry for the CalMac fleet, showing that Scotland remains at the forefront of ferry design and innovation. This new vessel will be fuel efficient and have lower maintenance costs, whilst ensuring a quality service for passengers"
Two previous hybrid ferries commissioned by the Scottish Government have been built at the yard.
The shipyard's former owners had been unable to tender for a number of major contracts as it had been unable to provide the financial bonds required by clients without recourse to borrowing.
Jim McColl, chairman and CEO of Clyde Blowers Capital, has promised around £8 million of fresh investment at the firm.
He said: "This is the first major order for Ferguson Marine Engineering and is fantastic news for the business."
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