The University’s new coastal research vessel has made her first trip into the Upper Mersey, passing under the Runcorn bridges.
The RV Marisa was commissioned by the School of Biological Sciences to help further understanding of plant and animal life in the Irish Sea.
Crew members had to take considerable care with shifting sand banks to work in the area sampling fish, benthos and plankton in support of a study into the ecology of the estuary commissioned as part of the evaluation of the feasibility of generating clear renewable energy from the tides.
The boat was named after readers of Precinct were asked for suggestions and Steve Markey from Facilities Management was the winner.