Yacht builder Fairline Boats has been bought out of administration by Russian investors in a deal thought to be worth about £4.5m, the Telegraph reports. The Northamptonshire-based company collapsed in December, just two months after Jon Moulton's Better Capital sold Fairline to fellow private equity investor Wessex Bristol.

The new company, Fairline Yachts, is funded by two long-term UK-based Russian investors, thought to be Alexander Volov and Igor Glyanenko, who are said to be highly experienced in managing and developing marine businesses and in the production of high technology products, IT and media services. Both are also said to be passionate boat owners. Moreover, Volov and Glyanenko are listed as shareholders in Fairline Acquisitions, which was registered with Companies House on January 6.

Russell Currie, an 18-year veteran with Fairline, will take over as managing director of the business, providing continuity and to maintain relationships with customers.

"I am delighted to have been appointed managing director for Fairline Yachts," said Currie. "With the resources of the investors, coupled with the expert knowledge of the management team and our energy and passion for the brand, the structure is in place for a great future for Fairline Yachts. We will focus on creating high quality luxury motor yachts that boaters will want to own and dealers will want to sell."

He continued: "As a sign of our commitment to Fairline Yachts' loyal customer base and dealer network, we will be completing all orders for boats received by Fairline Boats, including those that have not yet started being built as well as those that are already in production."

Sources close to the company say under its new ownership, the current range of 14 yachts, which start at 38ft and rises to 78ft, is likely to be stripped back to a much smaller number.

Fairline Yachts will continue to operate at the same manufacturing facilities in Oundle. Previous employees will be the first in line to apply for more than 100 jobs that will be available immediately.

Alastair Massey of FRP Advisory and joint administrator, concluded: "The sale to Fairline Acquisitions offers the best possible outcome. We would like to thank a supportive customer and supplier base who, together with a loyal workforce, helped see the business through the administration process."

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