New replica unveiled of the Clydebuilt ship that changed the world

Henry Bell’s Comet was given a more powerful engine and lengthened in 1819, but this wasn’t enough to stop the ship being driven ashore and wrecked in stormy weather near Oban the following year.

The original engine, designed by engineer John Robertson, was put to use in a Glasgow factory, then at a brewery in Greenock. But it now has a permanent home in London’s Science Museum.

Three years ago, the remains of the wooden ship’s hull were rediscovered in 39ft (12m) of water off Craignish Point.

The wreck has since been given protected status.

Unlike its predecessor, which was capable of sailing, the new replica is designed as a static display, incorporating materials that lend themselves to longevity.

Specialist display and model maker Aivaf, based in Sheffield, has created a stainless steel structure with drainage channels and clad it with a modified timber that is resistant to rot.