CONDOR Liberation is the official name of the new fast ferry that will soon be sailing between Poole and the Channel Isles.

The name was chosen by a judging panel following a competition and recognises the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Channel Islands, which were occupied by German forces during the Second World War.

A naming competition held in the Channel Islands received a massive 7,146 entries and Clive Davies from Guernsey was the winner.

He will receive a year’s free travel with Condor Ferries and have the chance to visit the £50million ferry in Poole to see the name being painted on.

“We’re delighted with the name of our brand new ship, Condor Liberation,” said Alicia Andrews, executive director – commercial at Condor Ferries.

“We felt it was particularly apt in this, the 70th anniversary of the liberation of the Channel Islands and are very pleased that Liberation is a name that will be as significant to our French passengers as it is to our Channel Island and UK passengers.

“We are now looking forward to welcoming Condor Liberation into service just before Easter.”

The ship is currently in Poole, her UK base, where marine interior specialist Trimline, is fitting out the interior, including the installation of a new duty free shop, children’s play area, information desk and range of eating and drinking outlets.

The team will also finalise the three new seating lounges, including two upgrade areas, which will enable passengers to travel in style.

She is due to be in service from the end of March, when all journeys to the Channel Islands will be on the new state-of-the-art ferry, offering increased capacity and smoother journeys, securing the future of high speed ferry travel to the islands.