Slipway named after late ferry service owner Robert Ritchie

Councillor John Crowther's campaign to call the boat ramp at the pierhead 'Ritchie's Slipway', in honour of Robert Ritchie, has been fully backed by his colleagues.

The newly named slipway and a plaque will now recognise the hugely significant role the family firm played in the success of the town and their heroics during the Second World War.

His wife Carol says she is moved by the tribute to her husband's family, who first set sail to Kilcreggan in the 1930s.

For the next 50 years the Ritchie Brothers launched some of the best loved names on the water in the Port Star, Lady Jane, Kempock Lad and Tiger.

Carol said: "This is a great honour in memory of Robert and the Ritchie Brothers and we are very proud that they will be recognised.

"We would like to thank Councillor Crowther for making it happen.

"It is a very fitting tribute."

Ritchie Bros Ferries, Gourock.

Robert passed away in July last year at the age of 77, having retired in 2003 due to ill health.

He left behind his wife Carol, daughters Karen, Clare, Gail and son Robert, who followed him to sea.

For many in the town, the name Ritchie Brothers brings back memories of a bygone era of holidaymakers pitching up tents and waiting for the crossing.

Set up in the 1930s by five Ritchie Brothers - Rab, Robert's dad, George, Dick, Jock and Roy, it went on to operate for a half a century with Robert junior taking it on.

Ritchie Bros Ferries, Gourock.

The ferry service operated up until 1974, when the Kilcreggan pier collapsed in a storm and was never repaired, bringing an end to the venture.

From then on Robert, who also owned a shed first in Kempock Point and then Cove Road, continued to use the name and operated his own marine services, using his boats for a variety of work on the water.

It's hoped the plaque at the newly named slipway will also recognise the family's contribution during the Second World War.

The Ritchie Brothers played a key role in the local effort when their ferries were rendered by the United Nations shipping arriving at the Clyde Emergency Anchorage.

They were responsible for the safe passage of 19,160 masters, 31,000 officers, 33,000 workers and nearly 300,000 liberty men.

They also transported goods and the boats were often on the water 24 hours a day.

Ritchie Bros Ferries, Gourock. Lady Jane, front with Granny Kempock ferry

Councillor Crowther says he is delighted his idea to name the slipway won unanimous support.

He said: "The request was in respect of the outstanding support that the Ritchie Brothers gave to the local community spanning more than 50 years, not just for the ferry service but to their contribution during World War 2.

"Having the slip named Ritchie’s Slipway is a lasting memorial to Robert and the Ritchie Brothers.

“Many have remarked that the 'Wee Annie' statue in the town is waiting for the steamer to take her 'doon the watter', but I'd beg to differ and say she is surely waiting for one of the Ritchie Brothers Ferries to take her across to Kilcreggan.

“When a suitable plaque is installed this will undoubtedly bring back many fond memories of the thousands of passengers who boarded the ferries on their regular crossings."