AN ISLAND boat building firm has won a bid to build a new range of Fixed Firefighting vessels.

Aluminium Marine Consultants, one of the UK's leading independent shipbuilders based in East Cowes, have partnered with firefighting equipment supplier, Angloco, and naval architect, Walker Marine Design, to design and build a new generation of aluminium firefighting vessels.

One of the fleet, a new 14 metre multi-role firefighting vessel, will be able to carry out tasks that meet the risk and hazards of modern day marine firefighting.

Rob Stewart LLB, commercial director of Aluminium Marine Consultants, said: "Ships these days carry chemicals and flammable materials so we need to be able to combat that.

"These vessels will also help out harbours and fight fires next to rivers and beaches. It's basically a fire engine specially designed for the sea."

The new build will be able to reach 33 knots, have a capacity to supply 4,500 litres of water per minute and carry a full set of firefighting and medical equipment.

A spokesperson from the partnership said: "The order is a vote of confidence for the UK marine industry, the UK economy and emerging export market for Fi Fi and multi-role vessel."

Rob Stewart LLB, commercial director of Aluminium Marine Consultants, said: "The vessel will be built in Cowes and draws upon the tradition of skilled and innovative craftsmen that the Island is deservedly world famous for."

The tri-party partnership will also build two catamarans and one other smaller vessel for the new fleet.