Cromarty Firth Port Authority (CFPA), the Scottish Highland's largest deepwater port, is bucking the trend with an increase in cargo tonnage, despite an 11 per cent decrease throughout Scotland's ports.

The Department of Transport has issued its National Maritime Statistics 2009, showing an increase of 27 per cent in cargo tonnage at Cromarty Firth.

CFPA saw 2.86 million tonnes of cargo shipped through port last year, compared to 2.25 million in 2008.

The results were achieved against the backdrop of one of the worst global recessions in living memory.

Said the CFPA: "For many years the Invergordon service base has been recognised as an international hub for its inspection, repair and maintenance (IRM) of oil rigs and subsea engineering."

"However, the growth of the marine renewables industry has seen the Cromarty Firth develop in recent years and CFPA is investing in its facilities to reflect this new position."

Ken Gray, port manager/harbour master at CFPA, said: "We are delighted to have achieved a significant increase during a difficult economic period, particularly as we have seen a decline throughout the rest of Scotland."

"We are committed to delivering the best for our customers and through continuous investment in our facilities, we hope they can in turn benefit and hopefully generate more activity and income for the region."