Two sets of public toilets will remain open over the winter months in Millport, while public conveniences at the Field Studies Centre and watersports centre will be made open to the public.

Cumbrae Community Development Company took over the public toilets on the Isle of Cumbrae from North Ayrshire Council on 1 April.

The company have now managed these assets for five months and now have a clear understanding of operating and maintenance costs.

North Ayrshire Council have provided £15,000 towards the ongoing costs.

Cumbrae Community Development Company CEO Michael Bertram told the 'News' that they are very grateful for the support received from a number of sponsors and donors, including Kelburn Wind Farm, Cumbrae Elderly Forum and all of the independent retailers who have collection tins on their counters to assist in funding the upkeep of the public toilets.

The toilets have suffered from a severe lack of maintenance over a number of years and £4,000 has been spent in essential repairs and are thanks are given for the support in painting and general tidying up of these toilets from a range of groups and individuals on the island.

The company have met to review the operating and maintenance costs; and deliberated on which of these facilities can be kept open over the winter months.

Michael added: "The decision was made that to save costs that we will operate Crocodile Rock and the Pierhead toilets only from mid-October to mid-February."

These facilities will remain open to assist local businesses throughout the winter months.

Cumbrae Community Development Company have met and agreed with Sports Scotland and Field Studies Council that their toilets can be utilised by visitors who may be walking or cycling around the island over this period.

Local contractor Suki McGregor will be on hand to manage the facilities over the winter months and we continue to ask for local business and tourism support. If any group or individual wishes to sponsor or donate to the costs of keeping these facilities open to locals and visitors, please contact Michael Bertram on 01475 531381.