Return of CalMac's largest ferry further delayed

CalMac's largest and fastest ferry is now not expected to return to its Ullapool-Stornoway route until 21 May at the earliest.

The Loch Seaforth suffered an engine failure last month, but there were hopes of it being back in service by the end of April and then by 17 May.

The breakdown disrupted the Ullapool-Stornoway route and other services across the CalMac network.

Services affected include sailings to and from Arran.

The firm had to move ferries from their normal routes to help provide cover for the Loch Seaforth.

The delay comes after specialist engineers carried out final testing on the Loch Seaforth and identified that further work was needed on one of its engine bearings.

The Loch Seaforth is set to leave the James Watt Dock in Greenock, where it was repaired, for two days of sea trials on Monday.

CalMac managing director Robbie Drummond said: "We will continue to keep customers informed of updates and we are very grateful for their patience and understanding at this time.

"Any change to services can be challenging for the communities we serve, and we apologise for the disruption this will cause."

Western Isles local authority - Comhairle nan Eilean Siar - has criticised the delay.

Transportation and infrastructure chairman Uisdean Robertson said: "That is extremely disappointing, particularly as CalMac informed us this week that the return of the Loch Seaforth was on schedule.

"Not only will this cause further disruption on the Stornoway Ullapool service, there will also be the consequent knock on effect to services in Uist and Barra."

The 116m-long (380ft) Loch Seaforth can carry up to 143 cars and 700 passengers.

Built in Germany at a cost of £42m, the ferry has been in service since 2015 and is the largest and fastest in CalMac's fleet.