Harland and Wolff: Relief and joy in Appledore as historic shipyard is saved by rescue deal

ITV News' Sam Blackledge reports from North Devon as jobs are saved at Appledore.

People in the North Devon village of Appledore say they are "thrilled" that their historic shipyard has been saved by a rescue deal.

Spanish shipbuilding firm Navantia has agreed to buy Harland and Wolff, securing the future of the Appledore yard.

Announcing the deal in the House of Commons on Thursday morning, Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: "This industry-led deal, which we expect to complete shortly, will secure all four of Harland and Wolff's shipyards, protecting around 1,000 jobs right across the UK.

"I hope this announcement will come as some relief to Harland and Wolff's employees. I realise this has been a deeply worrying time for them and for everyone affected by the continued speculation over the firm's future."

Defence Secretary John Healey added: “This agreement keeps vital defence manufacturing in the UK and protects skilled jobs at historic shipyards across our nations.

“It strengthens our sovereign capability to support Royal Navy operations worldwide, while building the industrial partnerships that will drive growth.”

Josie Tennant, who runs the Royal George Inn in the heart of Appledore, says the shipyard is a vital part of the region."We have a lot of locals who work for the shipyard and I know it's been a worry to them over the last months and years, while things have been all over the place.

"We're really pleased going into the New Year that people can feel safe and secure in their jobs and hopefully this means the security of the shipyard for many years to come."Just a few years ago, GMB members were marching against plans to close the yard. The union's national officer, Matthew Roberts, says more positive talks have already begun."We will be going into consultation between the trade unions and the incoming employer," he said.