Suffolk-based Spirit Yachts stars in BBC We Are England

Ipswich-based Spirit Yachts has enjoyed soaring success over the years - including making yachts used in James Bond movies.

In a We Are England programme entitled Making Waves: Building Boats, boss Sean McMillan and his team will reveal the company's humble beginnings - and its efforts to lower its carbon footprint.

As the COP27 climate change talks continue in Egypt the series will focus on some of the environmental innovation and initiatives at the firm which have won it plaudits.

The business began in a cow shed - and now makes award-winning modern classic yachts which are sold around the world.

Founder and chief executive Sean McMillan said: “We are looking forward to watching the programme as a team this evening; this is a proud moment for all of us.

"The creation of a Spirit yacht is down to an extremely talented group of individuals working together to design and build a person’s dream.

"The documentary will open our doors to the public to share an insight into how we create each one of our custom wooden yachts."

Managing director Karen Underwood added: "With COP27 highlighting the need for global climate action, we are proud to be part of a series championing British companies lowering the carbon footprint of their products."

The documentary also features Levington-based OneSails GBR (East), which has been Spirit Yachts' sailmaker since it was the boat builder was founded in 1993.

John Parker, who owns the OneSails GBR (East) sail loft on the River Orwell, said: "It’s a fantastic opportunity to be included in the documentary alongside a great British brand like Spirit Yachts.

"Even if you are not a sailor, the craftsmanship, technology, and expertise that go into making a Spirit yacht and her sails are truly fascinating."

The programme will be available to watch on BBC iPlayer during and after it is aired.