Caledonian MacBrayne has issued an update on its Gourock-Dunoon service after both ferries on the route were struck down by technical problems.

The service was disrupted on Tuesday evening, and again this morning, due to a problem with MV Ali Cat's starboard main engine.

Wednesday's 0610 and 0705 services from Gourock, and the 0635 and 0735 departures from Dunoon, were both cancelled while the problem was investigated, with a shuttle bus operating in their place.

CalMac says the technical issue has now been resolved and service will resume with the 0805 sailing from Gourock.

However, the company says that due to an "ongoing technical issue and the requirement for further spare parts", the route's second ferry, MV Argyll Flyer, "will not be in a position to return to service".

The Argyll Flyer was withdrawn from service on October 2 for repairs to its exhaust.

CalMac says an update on the Argyll Flyer's return to service will be provided at approximately midday on Wednesday.

In the meantime, MV Ali Cat will operate a single vessel timetable with departures at the following times.

From Gourock: 0805, 0905, 1005, 1105, 1205, 1305*, 1405, 1605, 1705, 1810, 1905, 2010, 2135, 2235.

From Dunoon: 0835, 0935, 1035, 1135, 1235, 1335*, 1435, 1535, 1635, 1735, 1835, 1935, 2040, 2205, 2305.

* Due to MV Ali Cat having to refuel, the 1305 from Gourock and 1335 from Dunoon will be operated by a shuttle bus.

The bus will depart Gourock at approximately 1255 and depart Dunoon at 1330. 

A spokesperson added: "Disrupting a sailing is a decision we do not take lightly because we know it will inconvenience our customers and the communities we serve.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused."

For more information see calmac.co.uk/service-status.