The contract value in the region of £20 Million pounds will mean the creation of hundreds of jobs. The work will be conducted in the Swansea dry dock and will be completed by February.

Harris Pye are also looking at other opportunities and the possible need to extend their lease in the Swansea dry dock.

Alun Cairns, the Shadow Industry Minister, who has been supporting Harris Pye and involved in the negotiations said that;

"This is a significant announcement and that the jobs created will extend well beyond the hundreds of direct new jobs that will be created.

Alun Cairns said, "The suppliers such as steel stock holders, builder's merchants and others will benefit hugely from this contract.

"During the re-fit period, the crew and other staff will base themselves in Swansea, which will provide additional spend in Swansea.

"I am optimistic that this will be the first of a string of major contracts in this highly skilled jobs area."

Mr Cairns added, "The jobs are in the technical and outfitting areas. Important links with Swansea College and other training providers will need to be established. The Welsh assembly Government needs to do all it can to support Harris Pye in their operation."