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

The ferry moved from Weymouth as it was too large to berth at its existing facilities.

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, with Clive Davies from Guernsey winning.

He will receive a year’s free travel with Condor Ferries and have the chance to visit the £50 million 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,” she added.