A BOAT building firm has been given a £1million cash boost for a state-of-the-art hub which will create 122 jobs.

CTruk, based in Brightlingsea, made a successful bid to the Government’s regional growth fund.

The investment means the firm can create an £8.3million centre at the former Fieldgates site in Haven Road, the Hythe, Colchester.

There, workers will be able to build even bigger boats to serve the offshore wind farm industry.

Peter McIntosh, CTruk chairman, said: “We are delighted our project has been selected and wholeheartedly thank all of those who supported the bid.

“It is our intention to continue driving UK innovation in marine vessel design and to remain competitive in a changing market.

“The Advanced Composite Technology Centre will enable us to diversify and grow sustainably, meeting our aspiration to be more than boat builders.”

Work is planned to start on the new building in the spring. There will be provision for 15 new apprentices.