CalMac is urging ferry travellers between Largs and Millport to wear a face covering to stop the spread of coronavirus.

In guidance issued by the Scottish Government, face coverings are now mandatory when travelling on an enclosed area of a ferry.

Exceptions can be made for those with certain conditions, but the ferry company is asking all others to comply to protect Cumbrae.

CalMac's Director of Operations, Robert Morrison, said, "Wearing a face covering on an enclosed area of a ferry is now mandatory with a few exceptions for medical or physical conditions.

"By covering your nose and mouth you are showing that you care for other passengers and our staff, providing you with a service.

“I'd strongly urge passengers to abide by the new guideline and help keep our island communities safe.”

The ferry operator has introduced an increased timetable which will run to July 14 initially, followed by a second timetable as travel restrictions are relaxed.

Mr Morrison says there has been little spread of the virus across CalMac’s route network and he is urging customers to keep it that way.

He said: “As travel guidance changes and more people begin to sail with us again it is essential that everyone who can, follows the guidance.

“By wearing a face covering you are helping to protect everyone on board travelling with you.

“We are now being told that both pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic transmission of the disease are much more common than first thought.

“As it isn't always possible to tell who is infected and who isn't, a simple step such as covering your nose and mouth and staying socially distant really can help save lives.”