ORKNEY-based Leask Marine is aiming to almost double its turnover and workforce after securing a £5.3 million funding package.

The firm received a funding package from Royal Bank of Scotland and Lombard consisting of asset-backed lending, term loan and a working capital facility from its financial partners to acquire essential equipment to undertake several new contracts.

Leask Marine said it is now aiming to almost double its turnover and workforce this season to assist in completing the number of new contracts.

Most recently, the new equipment – which principally included a brand-new Damen Multicat workboat called C-FORCE – towed the world’s most powerful tidal turbine from Dundee to Orkney, further enhancing Orkney’s position as a leader in marine wave renewable technology.

The Herald: The C-Force.The C-Force.

Douglas Leask, managing director of Leask Marine, said: “Our field is one filled with intricacies and requires knowledge and expertise to understand the market – this is something the team at Royal Bank of Scotland and Lombard have in abundance.

"The careful management of our funding by the team has given us the resources, and confidence, to press ahead in the acceleration of our growth plans.”

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RBS is principal banking partner at this year’s COP26, which takes place in Glasgow, and the partnership is one of many which support the bank’s aim to increase its sustainability credentials.

Margaret Keenan, RBS senior relationship manager, said: “Having worked with Leask Marine for more than 20 years, I am extremely proud that we have helped enable its recent growth which in turn is creating greener and more sustainable communities."