UP to 1000 people are estimated to have queued to see the launch of the second of two dual fuel vessels built at Ferguson Marine in Port Glasgow.

MV Glen Rosa is set to be launched into the Clyde today (Tuesday, April 9) like her sister vessel MV Glen Sannox.

Staff at the yard said an estimated 250 friends and family were in attendance alongside 750 members of public for 1000 total.

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The decision to open the launch this time was made after seeing interest outside gates for the closed Glen Sannox event.

An open invitation was extended to the people of Inverclyde to attend the launch, welcomed to the yard on a first come, first served basis.

Beth Atkinson, a qualified welder who completed her apprenticeship at the yard, is to smash a special botting of Ardgowan blended malt whisky off the vessel's hull to officially name her as MV Glen Rosa before she enters the water for the first time.

John Petticrew, interim chief executive at Ferguson Marine, said: "This is a proud day for the shipyard, the people of Inverclyde and every individual who has supported Ferguson Marine to reach this landmark moment.

"MV Glen Rosa is the 363rd vessel launched on the Clyde under the Ferguson Marine name. At around 3000 tonnes, she is considerably heavier than her sister vessel MV Glen Sannox was at launch and sets a new record for the yard in terms of weight at launch.

"Today marks a significant milestone in the delivery of two new ferries, following the success of MV Glen Sannox's sea trails in February and last week. This demonstrates the heard work being done by everyone at the yard to complete both ferries as soon as possible.

"MV Glen Rosa will now take her place at the quayside, at the spot Glen Sannox recently vacated, so that her internal fit out can continue."