GOUROCK ferry bosses are shutting a waiting room to passengers just as winter approaches — after contacting police about anti-social behaviour there in August.

The shelter — which also has disabled toilet facilities — is closing at 6.30pm every night, due to what Caledonian MacBrayne chiefs have described as 'various' disturbances.

Police were first alerted to loutish antics at the ferry terminal on August 28 but anti-social behaviour has not abated, with a spate of further incidents.

CalMac say there is no alternative other than closing the waiting room early whilst its Gourock-Dunoon ferry service continues until beyond 10pm.

A spokesperson for the ferry operator said: "There was an incident in August when the police were called and there have been various others, with the latest taking place on Saturday.

"Other passengers were being intimidated and it only stopped when staff threatened to call the police."

The spokesperson said: "There have been several incidents, with the latest being people throwing eggs around the waiting room and intimidating other passengers."

Despite taking the closure action, CalMac say they will open the room to any passengers wishing to shelter whilst waiting to board ferries.

However, the official restricted opening hours will be in place indefinitely.

CalMac said: "This was only supposed to be temporary but anti-social incidents have continued."

A notice on the company's website says the waiting room will close at approximately 6.0pm each night 'until further notice due to anti-social behaviour'.

CalMac's area operations manager for the Clyde, Tommy Gore, said: "The waiting room is being closed early to protect passengers and staff following a number of anti-social incidents, which we are actively addressing with Police Scotland.

"Our port staff remain on site until the ferry stops running and are happy to open the room for passengers who would like to shelter while they are waiting."

Sergeant Laura Stewart, of Inverclyde police, said: "I can confirm the one report in August and the community officers have also been in touch with the CalMac management, so we are aware that they have been having some issues.

"The winter weather has moved some of the anti-social behaviour locations indoors."

Inspector Andy Durk added: "Inverclyde officers are aware of reports of anti-social behaviour involving young people around Gourock railway station and ferry terminal.

"This is one of several areas identified for youth gatherings and associated anti-social behaviour.

"The vast majority of young people are decent and well behaved however there remains a small minority intent on being disruptive and having no thought for fellow residents and travellers.

"We are working with staff at both locations and partners including British Transport Police and Inverclyde Council to provide pro-active patrols in the area and would encourage anyone with concerns to contact police on 101 or community wardens on 0800 01 317 01.

*Passengers requiring access to the ferry waiting room can locate port staff in their office near the disabled parking bays, which has a blue door marked 'Gourock Pier Staff', or call the CalMac contact centre on 08000 66 5000.