The Ardrossan to Brodick ferry ensured that passengers who were stranded on Arran last night following the Waverly crash were taken safely back to the mainland.

It was confirmed this morning that 24 people were injured in the incident with several passengers airlifted to hospital.

A special sailing of CalMac’s MV Caledonian Isles ferry was timetabled so that those uninjured on the paddle steamer were able to return to Ardrossan.

The boat left Brodick at 10.35pm with 138 passengers onboard, landing on the mainland an hour later.

CalMac stepped in following discussions between Transport Scotland, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and emergency services.

Robbie Drummond, Managing Director of CalMac, said: “We were shocked to hear of the situation in Brodick harbour involving the Waverley, and my thoughts and best wishes are with those who were injured.

“We were more than happy to help return passengers to the mainland and worked closely with agencies including Waverley Excursions, who transported everyone onwards once they landed in Ardrossan.

“I would like to extend my deep gratitude to the crew on the Caledonian Isles and at Brodick and Ardrossan for their willingness to help out. Without them, this would not have been possible and their help in this case is one of many reasons why I am so proud of the CalMac team.”