A BIRKENHEAD-based engineering firm has completed its work with Cammell Laird to help build the yard’s first vessels for almost two decades.

IPS Marine Fabrications supplied fire protection in the main engines of the two new-build ferries, Sound of Seil and Sound of Soay.

The ferries, which are the first complete vessels to be built at Laird’s Birkenhead yard for nearly 20 years, will operate Western Ferries’ route between Dunoon and Gourock.

Paul Smith, director of IPS, said: “This was an excellent contract for us to work on.“We are a committed supplier to Cammell Laird and dedicated to support its growth.

“This puts the business in a unique position to drive investment into Merseyside and the wider maritime sector.

“It is terrific to see Cammell Laird building ships again and it has been brilliant to play a role in their construction.”

Laird’s chief executive John Syvret said the company is committed supporting local businesses wherever it can.

He said: “Cammell Laird has invested between £30m and £50m in the local economy and our supply chain every year for the last four years.

“We want to use local expertise and we want companies like IPS to be able to support us as we grow and develop in the marine sector and also the civil nuclear and renewable markets.

“These are massive multibillion pound industries which present glittering opportunities for Cammell Laird, our supply chain and our region.”