SOME 30 MPs, peers and dignitaries have backed the Parliamentary Blades Project, celebrating the success of MHI Vestas Offshore Wind.

Isle of Wight MP Andrew Turner was among the well-wishers who attended a parliamentary reception and signed blade components made by the Island firm, which are destined for offshore wind farms in Morecambe Bay and Germany.

He also attended the ceremony at MHI Vestas, Newport, to mark the official handover of components for the project.

"This is a wonderful project that highlights the skills and expertise we have here on the Isle of Wight.


"MHI Vestas has invested significantly in their facility here and employs more than 300 people on the Island," said Mr Turner. 

In the past, Mr Turner has supported plans for an offshore wind farm off the south of the Island but opposed plans to erect turbines at Cheverton Down. He has also voted in parliament to cut green subsidies.

This project will see MPs encourage schoolchildren to take part in a Brand the Blades competition to design a 

Parliamentary Blades logo. The winning schools will win a bespoke science, technology, engineering, and maths workshop led by MHI Vestas experts.

James Luter, MHI Vestas production director, said: "MHI Vestas are proud of the team here on the Island. We have a highly skilled and dedicated group who are at the vanguard of advanced manufacturing, helping ensure offshore wind becomes the most competitive large-scale electricity generating technology.

"We are investing approximately £1 million in a partnership with the IW College, supported by Solent Local Enterprise Partnership, that will enable our Island-based team to gain a range of qualifications, including City & Guilds composite engineering."

Reporter: htaylor@iwcpmail.co.uk