A WELL-RESPECTED former shipyard boss has sent his wishes to his adopted town of Barrow.

Murray Easton CBE, who was managing director of the shipyard from 2003 to 2009, emailed The Mail to pass on his best wishes.

He told The Mail's chief reporter Amy Fenton: "A good friend of mine in the US sent me a copy of your recent Evening Mail article and of course it focused my mind on all the good people of Barrow and I am just sending you, your family, friends and all in Barrow and nearby best wishes that the challenges we all face are overcome with the minimum impact.

"Whilst we will come through this into a different world, may there be strength and good health to you all."

Mr Easton was brought in to rescue the Astute programme - £700m over budget and three years behind schedule. His success led to him being described as 'a hero' by then Barrow MP John Hutton.

He resigned shortly before BAE handed over the first boat.