AN Arran based community group has been recognised as an official stakeholder for matters regarding the Arran ferry services.

After two and a half years of campaigning on behalf of residents and ferry users of Arran, the Arran Ferry Action Group were recognised during First Minister’s

Questions on December 2.

Nicola Sturgeon, responding to a question from Cunninghame North MSP, Kenneth Gibson, said: “I will ask the Minister for Transport to write to Kenny Gibson with more detail about those investments and the work that we and Transport Scotland are doing with stakeholders, including Peel Ports Group, North Ayrshire Council and the Arran Ferry Action Group, to improve services and infrastructure specifically on the Arran route.”

Gavin Fulton, Chairman of Arran Ferry Action Group said: “We wholeheartedly welcome this development and are excited by the opportunity to directly influence our lifeline ferry service.

“As a recognised stakeholder, we look forward to attending the Ardrossan Harbour Task Force

meeting on Tuesday, December 7 at this critical juncture and will ensure the views and needs of islanders are heard and acted upon.

“We cannot wait to get down to work.”