The Millport coal carrying puffer, the Saxon, was transformed into the Vital Spark, in the BBC Comedy classic 'Para Handy'.

The show starred islander Duncan MacCrae in the 1960s in another Cumbrae link.

This rare colour photo is from Al Goold's collection, after converting his father's projector photographic archive, and cleaning up the slide pictures to high quality standard. Indeed, a young Al is pictured in front of the Vital Spark!

A 'News' report in 1965 stated that the puffer was owned by Walter Kerr aged 63, exactly the same age as the ship!

We reported: "In a few weeks time, both of them will retire together. His puffer Saxon is the last privately owned puffer on the Clyde. It was his father's before him.

"Her regular run has been to Millport, her home port, with 85 tons of coal onboard, and a total crew of three. That's one fewer than Para Handy had on his Vital Spark.

"In Queen's Dock in Glasgow, the Saxon was masquerading as the Vital Spark for a B.B.C TV series.Walter Kerr is an intense admirer of Neil Munro and said: "He must have been on the boats, He knows every tide-rip."

Leading actor of the tv show was Para Handy himself Duncan MacCrae was also very familiar, as he had a holiday home in Millport.

Duncan was considered one of the country’s best known actors – working with international stars on stage, television, radio and in cinema.

And what makes his connection to Millport so strong, is the fact that it’s the place he and his wife Peggy chose to relax and call their second home.

The popular pair often visited to escape the hustle and bustle of Glasgow. In fact, they loved the Isle of Cumbrae so much, that they bought Dundonald Villa on Kames Bay.

The couple were as popular in Millport off-screen, bringing the glitz and glamour of showbiz to the small, quaint Isle. Peggy was a teacher on the island for many years as well as a Millport burgh councillor. She also helped establish the annual Cumbrae Queen celebrations.

The Saxon has apparently returned to Millport in more recent times, if you have more information, email us at editorial@largsnews.co.uk