A NEWLY-ESTABLISHED coffee roastery in Inverclyde has been praised by two local politicians after they visited the firm's base in Port Glasgow.

Inverclyde MP Martin McCluskey and his party colleague, West Scotland regional MSP Paul O'Kane, called in to Downriver Coffee Roasters in the Kelburn Business Park.

They spoke to the company's founder, Ryan Casey, to learn more about the new business.

(Image: Office of Paul O'Kane)

Ryan spoke to the Tele in March about her new business, which was set up after she settled in the area with her wife Caitlin, who comes from Gourock.

Ryan, originally from Long Island, New York, moved to Scotland in 2015 to study at the University of Glasgow.

Mr McCluskey said: “We had a really welcoming visit today and it’s clear from Ryan’s story that this is business that’s linked to the character and community spirit of Inverclyde.

“I’m grateful that there’s new business that can draw people to visit Inverclyde and show what our brilliant communities have to offer."

Mr O’Kane added: “In recent years we’ve seen too many businesses close down or relocate out of Inverclyde.

(Image: Office of Paul O'Kane)

“It’s really refreshing to see a new business choose to start up in Inverclyde and offer a unique service and product.

"Food and drink is a vital part of our economic growth in West Scotland and its great to see Inverclyde at the heart.”