PRIDE rippled through Barrow shipyard as Wave Knight slid seamlessly into the sea at the second attempt.

A huge cheer went up as the 12,500 tonne auxiliary oiler splashed into Walney Channel at 12.20pm last Friday and the BAE Systems Marine band struck up Rule Britannia.

Lady Guthrie, wife of chief of the Defence Staff Sir Charles Guthrie, had performed the naming ceremony the previous day and flew back up to Furness from Middlesex to complete the launch, which had been called off due to blustering winds.

Rod Legetter, group managing director of BAE Systems Marine operations, thanked the 2,000-strong crowd for returning.

"I really wasn't expecting to see you all again so soon but I am delighted that you've all made it back today," he said.

"I was concerned when it looked as if safety factors would prevent you from being allowed into the yard today but thanks to rescheduling some equipment movements in the yard and the co-operation of the police you are here with us and you're most welcome."

The Rev Tim Harrison said a short prayer and Lady Guthrie pulled the trigger to release the largest vessel since HMS Invincible was launched in 1977 into the sea.

Workers and visitors stood with baited breath until a clank was heard and the 196-metre long vessel rolled slowly into the water leaving a cloud of dust behind from the drag chains.

It was an emotional experience and Mr Legetter could be heard saying "there's no stopping it now" over the PA system as the tanker moved from her berth down the slipway in an awe-inspiring moment.

Mike Salmon, operations director, and his team had worked overnight to prepare the launch after it was stopped on Thursday just before the crucial point.

"I struggle to give you the words to tell you how I was feeling when it went," he said.

"It was an incredible experience and it really was team work which launched this ship.

I am proud of the team and proud of the ship."

Simon Kirby, acting managing director, said the launch was a big moment for the town to show what a huge feat of shipbuilding it had accomplished.

"This has been five years work for a lot of people, it is more than just a launch it is a major milestone and gives people a great sense of achievement."

As the Wave Knight sailed off to Buccleuch Dock Lady Guthrie walked down to the crowd and thanked them all for coming along to support the launch.