Ferry services between Ardrossan and Brodick remain cancelled today as CalMac await an essential part to carry out engine repairs.

Islanders and tourists faced a grim weekend to end the summer season after the ageing MV Isle of Arran was taken out of service on Friday when a fault was discovered with a gearbox cooler in one of the main engines.

The cooler had to be removed from the vessel and sent away for tests and repairs, leading to the cancellation of all sailings to and from Ardrossan over the weekend.

The bad new is that the repairs have yet to be carried out, with sailings between Ardrossan and Arran cancelled for today (Monday, September 2).

The MV Alfred continues to sail to Brodick from Troon Harbour, and CalMac have added an extra Troon-Brodick sailing today.

A CalMac spokesperson said: "All repair options have been investigated and spare parts have been sourced and ordered.

"Unfortunately, based on this information, the vessel will not be able to return to service before Monday, September 2. As a result, all sailings on are cancelled.

"An update regarding service on Tuesday, September 3 will be provided at approximately 4pm on Monday, September 2.

"Any customers impacted are asked to call our Customer Engagement Centre on 0800 066 5000 to rebook or claim a refund."

They added: "In order to provide alternative travel connections for displaced traffic affected by MV Isle of Arran cancellations, the following amended timetable with an additional sailing will operate.

"Depart Troon: 8.35am, 12,45pm, 4.25pm. Depart Brodick: 10.25am, 2.35pm and 6,15pm.

"The additional sailing will be for disrupted passengers. Please be aware that space is limited on this sailing and lifeline traffic will be prioritised.

"Due to MV Alfred having a smaller bicycle capacity, passengers are required to book in advance for their desired sailing."

A bus has been organised to take foot passengers from Ardrossan, departing at 7.35am 11.45am and 3.25pm to Troon for the 8.35am, 12.45pm 4.25pm sailings.

A further bus service will operate from Troon to Ardrossan for foot passengers arriving at 11:45am, 3.55pm and 7.35pm on MV Alfred's service from Brodick.

CalMac added: "Alternative travel is available via our turn up and go Claonaig-Lochranza service.

"However, this service is extremely busy, and travel cannot be guaranteed."