Cumbrae Support Team was called into action to assist with stranded visitors on the Isle of Cumbrae last Monday evening.

As the fog started to descend and Caledonian MacBrayne placed the island on yellow alert; the resilience members contacted CalMac Largs office for advice on the developing situation.

Cumbrae Support Team rolled into action preparing the Garrison House drop-in centre for our visitors.

The resilience squad prepared to deliver hot tea and coffee to those stranded at the Cumbrae Slip and advised the local bus drivers that Garrison House drop-in centre was available if the situation deteriorated. Approximately 60 visitors were approached and asked if they needed assistance.

Some visitors were second home owners and 37 visitors were in need of accommodation for the night. In addition, some decided that they wished to stay with their cars and the resilience team delivered sleeping bags to those who required them.

The local ferry bus delivered the walking visitors to Garrison House; where the resilience team checked if any visitors had any special medical needs and made the others comfortable in the drop-in centre. One visitor was transferred to the Lady Margaret Hospital to receive advice on her medication to cover the night.

Caledonian MacBrayne informed Cumbrae Support Team coordinator Mr. Bob Campbell that they would attempt a crossing at 9pm.

The ferry bus transported those who wished to attempt the journey back to the Cumbrae slip; unfortunately conditions had not changed and no sailings were possible. Caledonian MacBrayne duly informed Bob Campbell that there would be no more sailings that night (25th September).

Millport Holidays Apartments and the Cathedral were approached to offer lodgings for those who did not want to sleep on camp beds in the drop-centre and also those deemed vulnerable.

Mr. Bob Campbell was extremely pleased that his team, who could attend were able to use their recent training to assist visitors and would also like to thank Leslie and Robert Cunninghame for opening the Newton Bar kitchen.

Michael Bertram, CEO of Cumbrae Community Development Company stated “that this is a perfect example of our community coming together in times of need and would like to place on record, his thanks to Bob Campbell and his team”.

For further information how you can join the Cumbrae Support Team contact Mr. Bob Campbell on 07930 115513.