A BOAT-BUILDING business in Bromsgrove has named its newest vessel after a five-year-old girl with cerebral palsy.

Inspired by the infamous 'Boaty McBoat Face' suggestion in a national contest to name a polar research ship, Black Prince launched its own 'name the narrowboat' competition.

Operations manager Leighton Jones said: "It was great fun to read all the entries - they ranged from the very witty to the very touching. A lot of people had a story to tell.

"We had a few entries to rival Boaty McBoat Face, which included Bargy McBarge Face and Margie Bargie, plus my personal favourite Rudderly Fabulous.

"But what was most touching about the competition were some of the reasons why people wanted a lasting memory of perhaps a much loved pet or family member."

Entries were whittled down to 15 finalists, with Black Prince fans asked to vote on their favourite.

More than 1,000 people took part, but Michelle Atkins from Merseyside polled 40 per cent of the vote with her entry 'Jessica Ellen', named after her daughter.

Michelle said: "My daughter AKA my warrior princess is named Jessica Ellen - she is my superstar. She is five and has quadriplegic cerebral palsy, epilepsy and reflux disease.

"Despite all her challenges she is beautiful, clever and incredibly smiley little girl. Her smile literally lights up the room and this year will be her 4th holiday with Black Prince.”

Jessica and her family attended a naming ceremony on September 16, joined by Bromsgrove District Council vice-chairman Caroline Spencer at the Black Prince headquarters in Stoke Prior.

Michelle added: "Black Prince has given Jessica this once in a lifetime opportunity, particularly as some of our happiest family moments have been aboard a Black Prince boat."