THE Ardrossan to Brodick ferry service continues to be the busiest route across the whole Calmac network, figures have revealed.

From January 1 to December 31, 2016, a total of 828,262 passengers travelled between the ports, an increase of almost 9 per cent on last year.

And the second busiest route was also in North Ayrshire with the Largs to Cumbrae journey ferrying 738,549 passengers towards Millport.

The total number of cars travelling to Arran breached the 200,000 mark and the total number of passengers across Calmac’s network was over five million.

“Last year was our busiest in terms of passengers for two decades,” said CalMac’s Managing Director Martin Dorchester. “This is a great reflection of the professionalism of our staff in dealing with an increase of more than 400,000 passengers and almost 190,000 cars, whilst still running a smooth operation to help all our travellers, whether islanders or visitors, business or pleasure to get where they are going.”

Minister for Transport and the Islands Humza Yousaf said: “Passing the five million passenger mark is fantastic news and I congratulate all CalMac staff involved in delivering this achievement.

“These figures underline the success of the full roll out of Road Equivalent Tariff on the Clyde and Hebrides ferry network, a key commitment from the Scottish Government.

“Cheaper fares bring benefits to locals, visitors and local businesses, making ferry travel more attractive and accessible, as well as providing a boost to the tourist trade.

“The Scottish Government is committed to supporting our island communities.”