CalMac has announced one of its Ardrossan routes will be cancelled for the rest of the year.

The Ardrossan to Campbeltown service only runs a summer timetable and the MV Hebridean Isles will not be back in service in time for the end of the season.

A statement on the CalMac website states: "As a result of vessel deployments, and the ongoing issues with MV Hebridean Isles, this service will unfortunately be cancelled for the remainder of the summer period – we do apologise to our customers and the community for this outcome.

"MV Hebridean Isles is currently berthed in Ayr following the most recent trials and inspections to fix her manoeuvrability issue.

"Further repairs to the vessel are being investigated to find a permanent fix, and the vessel will remain at Ayr until a location for further maintenance has been confirmed.

"Please be assured we will contact all customers with an affected booking as soon as possible."

In June, CalMac said that the MV Hebridean Isles should be back in service around July 27.

The in July, the ferry operator claimed the route was due to return on August 24.

But deadlines have been repeatedly missed and the firm has now conceded it will not sail again for the remainder of the year for operational reasons.

CalMac’s winter timetable kicks in from October 23.

Bookings on the Ardrossan to Campbeltown may have already been made up to September 25 and any customers with such a reservation would be contacted.

MV Alfred continues to operate between Ardrossan and Brodick, on Arran, alongside MV Caledonian Isles.