A POPULAR classic car event on Cumbrae is to be rescheduled, the organisers have announced. 

The team behind the Millport Classic Car Event had previously said this year's gathering of vintage vehicles - the 10th anniversary of the popular display - would take place on Saturday, May 11.

But they've now decided to push back that date by more than a month - and they say the ongoing issues affecting the island's ferry service are the reason for the delay.

The event has been running since 2014 and has proved to be very popular, with the numbers of vintage vehicles increasing in number over the years.

Last year, more than 100 classic cars beat the fog to wow the crowds in the grounds of Garrison House.

The new date for the event is Saturday, June 22.

A spokesperson for the event said: "We have taken the decision to reschedule the Millport Classic Car Event due to reduced capacity on CalMac ferries, in order to ensure we can accommodate as many attendees as possible for our 10th anniversary show. 

"This date may not suit everyone, and we do apologise for any inconvenience this may cause you."

As we previously reported, CalMac withdrew the usual ferry on the route, MV Loch Shira, from service on April 5 for repairs to both of its vehicle ramps.

READ MORE: Heartfelt pleas over Cumbrae ferry service after 'catastrophic breakdown' hits route

The decision was made following the discovery of cracks in the hinge on one of the ramps which CalMac said was "beyond repair".

More than 130 people attended a public meeting in Millport on April 9 to air their concerns at the standard of service currently being provided by CalMac.

The route is currently being covered by two smaller vessels - MVs Loch Bhrusda and Isle of Cumbrae.

The latter vessel has been redeployed from its usual route on Loch Fyne for the second time this month after the usual Largs relief vessel, MV Loch Riddon, suffered a breakdown with its own vehicle ramps and had to be withdrawn from service for repairs.

The well-attended car show was established in 2014 after founder Jimmy Newton decided to combine his enthusiasm for old cars with his love of Cumbrae.

In its first year the event had just 18 cars on display, but that grew to an impressive tally of 150 in 2019, the last year before Covid - and more than 100 enthusiasts have brought their vehicles to the island for the event every year since it returned after the pandemic.

For more information and updates visit Millport Classic Car event at millportclassiccarevent.com.