An alternative to the normal Arran games

I suspect such an unacceptable level of service wouldn’t be countenanced on the mainland. to get to Troon? It would be a challenge for me as I am registered blind. CalMac would need to shuttle passengers to Troon by bus as Troon rail station isn’t near the harbour.

Arran holds special memories for me as it was where mum and dad met and many happy holidays were spent there through the years as well as at Auchrannie Resort. Sadly both have passed away.

I urge CalMac, the Scottish Government and Peel Ports to get this problem resolved and consider upgrading Ardrossan harbour sooner than later.

Yours,

Gordon Waddell,

Airdrie.

Sir,

Foot passengers travelling to Troon are advised Troon station is a ten-minute walk from the harbour. The distance is 1.4 miles.

A normal walking speed is three miles per hour.

The people of Arran should offer a new challenge and ticket - open to average shaped CalMac and CMAL employees from Ardrossan, Gourock and Brodick - to walk the route with wean in pram and rucksack.

The bonus, given the ferry problems, to be nominated as a stage runner in the proposed Alternative Arran Games 2024 - a 42-mile marathon from Dunoon to Claonaig via the Rest and Be Thankful.

This anticipates a short cut on a CalMac Gourock to Dunoon ferry, if available, otherwise it is via the Erskine Bridge.

Robbie Drummond - a known double marathon man and potential short odds winner - has intimated his intention not to compete as the prize - a bridge trip on the first run from Brodick to Ardrossan on the new Glen Sannox - may be pie-in-the-sky.

Bookies intimate there are “ferry” long odds on Mackison or Hobbs finishing the course.