A new multi-million pound fishing boat has been launched from Buckie.

The Caledonia III is the first locally-registered fishing boat to be built in the town for around 30 years and it is hoped the launch could provide a shot in the arm for the region's shipbuilding industry.

Boat building is an important part of Buckie's heritage but has been in decline since the downturn in the north east fishing sector.

But new confidence in the industry has led to more orders coming in to local yards.

Stuart Mack, from Macduff Shipyards, said: "It's looking good for Buckie.

"We have five new boats to build - they will all take a year each, so that's five years of work to go on.

"We're employing new guys all the time, we're taken on more apprentices, and local businesses are getting work out of us as well."

Steven Clarke, skipper of the Caledonia III, said it was important that his boat was built in his hometown.

He said: "It's something I've been looking to do since i started fishing 30 years ago.

"To actually see it go in the water is quite emotional - especially when she floated off. I thought ' wow this is actually mine now'."

Mr Clarke said the boat's launch had brought a sense of excitement to the town.

He added: "The fact it's a Buckie boat - everyone's excited about the industry again.

"It will help the town and help the harbour get a buzz again."