Arran's new ferry is set to return to service this afternoon

Arran's brand new ferry, the MV Glen Sannox, is set to return to service today (Sunday), after repairs were carried out on a crack to the hull.

CalMac said that a preliminary test has indicated that the vessel’s damaged hull, which saw it out of commission over Friday and Saturday, has successfully been repaired.

The ferry operator said the vessel's first Sunday sailing would remain cancelled while tests take place, but after that, will resume, so long as the second test is also successful.

"The welding has been successful"

A spokesperson for CalMac said: "Repairs to the hairline crack on a weld seam on MV Glen Sannox have been completed.

"A preliminary test indicates the welding has been successful, but a second test will be carried out tomorrow morning when the welded area has completely cooled.

"If this test is successful, MV Glen Sannox will resume service at 14.50 from Brodick.

"We're grateful to the vessel's crew"

"This means the first morning return sailing is cancelled, but all booked customers can be accommodated on other sailings with space available.

"The 12.40 sailing MV Alfred was due to operate from Brodick will be brought forward to 11.20 to provide an earlier departure from Arran to the mainland."

They added: "We are grateful to the vessel's crew, our local port staff and the dive and repair teams for their speedy response to this issue."

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