Scottish Enterprise has granted £1 million to Ferguson Marine Engineering Limited (FMEL) to invest in the last commercial shipyard on the Clyde.

The Regional Selective Assistance (RSA) grant will help boost jobs on the Port Glasgow site from 150 FTE to 250 FTE.

In addition, the funding will help contribute to the £12m refurbishment works of Ferguson Marine's premises, along with investing in new modern equipment.

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Deputy First Minister John Swinney is due to visit the site later today, over a year after a Scottish Government taskforce helped to find a buyer for the company and save it from administration.

"Commercial shipbuilding on the Clyde has a long history, and it is important that we continue to support this vital industry," he said.

"This £1 million grant will enable the company to further invest in the site on the Clyde, which will create jobs and help ensure our shipbuilding industry continues to have a sustainable future."

Paul Lewis, MD of Scottish Development international and Scottish Enterprise International Operations, added : "Today's announcement marks a significant milestone for the company and we will continue to work with them as they realise their full growth potential."

(LM)