CONCERNS have been raised that vulnerable islanders on Cumbrae are struggling to reach hospital appointments at Crosshouse and specialist facilities in Glasgow.

The Cumbrae Forum claims elderly and disabled locals have come to them with concerns over transport in recent weeks after fighting to get to vital dates.

The charity says it is looking into possible solutions to the problem, and will write to local elected officials to try and resolve the matter.

A spokesperson said: “We recognise that most patients on the island are fortunate enough to have people to take them, but there are still some missing out.

“You used to have contact details on the back of your appointment letter if you needed help to get to the hospital, this provision has been removed."

Iain Morrison, boss of island transport firm Millport Motors, has bow offered to help transport residents for a nominal charge.

He said: “We cannot offer the bus for free, but we can do it cheaply so people aren’t impacted too much.

“Our buses do the school runs at 8am and 3pm, but outwith these times we can look into what we as a company can do to help.”

Community councillor Keith Hammond said: "The problem is getting people to the slip here on the island, and although that’s usually done by friends, family or on the bus, it’s not always easy for those who are old and frail.

“Hopefully a solution can be found quickly."