THE bodies of two sailors have been recovered after a tugboat capsized off Greenock.

The tugboat sank on Friday off East India Harbour, sparking a full-scale search and rescue operation.

Helensburgh's RNLI lifeboat and the town's coastguard rescue team were among the emergency services to respond.

Police Scotland's specialist Dive and Marine Unit were back on the water Saturday morning as the search continued before two bodies were recovered from the capsized boat at around 1.40pm today. 

Police confirmed formal identification is yet to take place but the next of kin of both men have been informed. 

Chief Inspector Damian Kane, area commander, said: “Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the men at this difficult time and I would ask that their privacy is respected.

“I would like to thank the local community for their patience and support as searches were ongoing and as we continue to carry out our enquiries.”

On Friday the search for the two sailors triggered a multi agency response including a coastguard helicopter, police rescue boats and lifeboat crews.