It is hoped that the return of the MV Loch Shira to the Largs to Cumbrae route is imminent as sea trials continue on the Firth of Clyde.

Repairs to MV Loch Shira are progressing and the vessel is now at James Watt Dock in Greenock, with a possible return date of Wednesday August 7.

A CalMac spokesperson said: "Following the level of repairs the vessel will be required to carry out extensive sea and berthing trials across the Clyde area before a planned return to service on Wednesday August 7."

CalMac say they will issue a further update shortly.

MV Loch Shira has been much missed during summer monthsMV Loch Shira has been much missed during summer months (Image: Newsquest)

Due to a technical issue with MV Isle of Cumbrae's ramp which requires repair, the vessel has been unavailable for service from 1.30pm today. 

Repairs are expected to take a few hours.

MV Loch Tarbert will operate a single vessel timetable departing Largs at quarter past and quarter to the hour and departing Cumbrae on the hour and half past the hour. 

While the single vessel timetable is in operation, due to the weight limit imposed on MV Loch Tarbert's ramp, CalMac will be unable to transport vehicles in excess of 3.5t.

The MV Isle of Cumbrae has been taken out of operation on Monday afternoonThe MV Isle of Cumbrae has been taken out of operation on Monday afternoon (Image: Newsquest)

Following the removal of MV Loch Fyne from service on Monday, July 29 for inspections of the propulsion unit, the inspection results indicate repairs are necessary.

The propulsion unit will require approximately four weeks to rebuild, contingent upon the arrival of the necessary spare parts.

As such, the MV Loch Fyne will remain out of service for any relief or scheduled deployment until the repairs can be completed.

For latest updates on the MV Loch Shira, and the MV Isle of Cumbrae, go here