A PUBLIC session on the new Ar Turas ticking system to be introduced on Caledonian MacBrayne's ferry routes is taking place in Millport.

The open session will run from 2pm until 8pm in Garrison House on Wednesday April 5.

The new system is to be introduced on April 25.

Representatives from the ferry operator will explain how the transition process will work, and how islanders will be able to leave the island if they are not in possession of a return ticket.

They will also show and explain how the new ticketing system will work, and the future benefits of the change.

CalMac says the system will make it easier to make and manage bookings and will include new features such as e-tickets, multiple vehicle reservations and advance ticket purchase on 'turn up and go' routes.  

The company also says tckets booked online will no longer have to be printed at home or collected from a port office, with e-tickets emailed directly to customers' inbox.