A PIECE of seafaring history has sailed its way into the arms of the team at a lifeline Inverclyde support hub.

A Mitsubishi marine engine, once owned by local councillor John Crowther, is now being looked after by Inverclyde Shed.

Councillor Crowther originally intended to fit the engine into a dinghy he once owned but the project didn't come to fruition and the engine was put into storage.

He recently contacted Shed chairman Bruce Newlands to ask if members would be interested in taking on the renovation of the engine as a project - and Bruce was happy to take it on board.

Councillor Crowther is pleased that the engine is now being put to good use - and hopeful it may even play a bigger role in preserving part of Inverclyde's maritime legacy.

He added: "Rather than sell the engine I spoke to Bruce at Inverclyde Shed to see if they would be interested.

"The Shed was an obvious choice as they currently have a small boat at their premises in East Blackhall Street.

"This project could definitely lead onto other things.

Shed marine engine restoration

Shed marine engine restoration

"Stuart McMillan MSP and Councillor Chris Curley have called for the return of the original engine from the PS Comet, which is currently at the Science Museum in London.

"There is a replica engine in the PS Comet in Port Glasgow and local engineers have advised that they would be willing to devote time to working on this replica.

"Inverclyde has so much to offer in terms of historical marine artefacts.

"I would welcome the return of the original PS Comet engine to Inverclyde and would also love to see the replica engine being brought back to working order."

Shed boss Bruce says the team are very grateful for the kind donation.

He added: "This will be a great wee refurbishment project for us to work on when we reopen.

"It's really piqued the interest of a few of our members who are keen to start renovating it.

"Lockdown has been tough for everyone.

"We hope as it eases in the coming months, and in line with Scottish Government guidance, we can get our members back into our workshops to work on projects like this, to meet, make and share over a cuppa.

"The Shed is always diversifying the experiences, tools and equipment on offer to support members' ambitions to be creative and help build friendships.

"Whether it’s working on this marine engine, traditional wood carving, our forthcoming electronics club or ideas for other crafts, we’ll continue to listen and support people."