A Largs man has hung up his skipper’s cap after a 40-year-long career with CalMac.

Starting as a seasonal worker in 1983, Gary McIntyre became a full-time skipper at the age of 24 and ended his career serving the Isle of Cumbrae on MV Loch Shira.

Gary started his career with CalMac as a purser on MV Keppel before attending college.

He then rejoined in 1984 as a purser on MV Isle of Cumbrae and also completed the winter season in the ticket office.

After getting his skipper's ticket at 22, Gary provided relief cover until he was made a full-time skipper at the age of 24 - working on MV Loch Striven and MV Loch Linnhe.

He then achieved his deck officer ticket at college around 1997, when he was then skipper of MV Loch Alainn.

After working in the relief pool, Gary joined MV Loch Shira, where he would have now circumnavigated the equator twice.

He said: "I have a lot of happy memories of CalMac and the 40 years have flown past; it has been so interesting and varied.

"I’ve made lifelong friends and I'll miss the banter!"

Colleague Carol Ann Baxter added: "I have worked with Gary for 24 years and he guided and supported me a lot when I was supervisor and then port manager.

"He is always willing to help out a colleague, whether afloat or ashore, and share his vast knowledge and experience.

"He has helped and guided numerous fledging boat masters who have gone on to become accomplished and experienced skippers and beyond.

"Gary’s knowledge, community focus and positive team spirit will be greatly missed."

Gary’s retirement plans include recording music with his band and spending time with his family.