THE public are being asked to help name one of the ferries which has been at the centre of a fiasco over delivery delays and rising costs.

The two ferries being constructed by Ferguson Marine – the MV Glen Sannox and unnamed Hull 802 - willl be used on the CalMac Arran route.

Hull 802 was originally expected to be launched in 2018, but that is now anticipated to take place towards the end of this year with the vessel entering into passenger service by the end of 2024.

READ MORE: Neil Gray: Ferguson Marine to be privatised 'as quickly as possible'

Caledonian Maritime Assets Limited (CMAL) said shortlist of names has been produced after consulting with islanders and local communities, which have ties to Scottish heritage and the landscape on Arran.

The National:

Anyone can vote for their favourite from three options until Wednesday August 23 and the most popular name will be given to Hull 802.

READ MORE: Scotland's ferry fiasco is 'existential threat' to island communities

Voters will also be entered into a competition to win a free return journey on one of the ferries for four passengers and a car.

The shortlisted names are:

  • Glen Cloy – a small valley on the east coast of Arran
  • Glen Rosa - a glen near Goat Fell on Arran in the Firth of Clyde
  • Claymore - from the Gaelic Claidheamh Mòr, meaning great sword

Kevin Hobbs, chief executive of CMAL said: “The two ferries, Glen Sannox and Hull 802, will be a welcome addition to our Clyde and Hebrides Ferry Services network - however Hull 802 is currently nameless.

“We know there’s a lot of interest in the dual fuel ferries, so we hope to see this translate into votes."