Two high-profile maritime organisations have merged to jointly lead the Liverpool City Region's maritime industry, as research figures show the sector brings more than £2,500million to the economy each year.

Mersey Maritime and The Laird Foundation have joined forces to form The Mersey Maritime Group, which will provide a greater range of services for more than 1,000 local companies from its base in Birkenhead.

It's also been revealed that the maritime sector will benefit from £270million investment by 2025, as part of the Mersey Ports Growth Strategy.

Roy Morris, Chair of The Mersey Partnership, said: "The Liverpool City Region is already a global gateway and distribution hub, making the maritime industry a key growth sector for its £17 billion economy.

"This merger will strengthen the sector further, creating a world-class maritime business and skills centre, next door to a key ship repairer and conversion facility."