FERRIES to Millport have been suspended because of "extreme passenger volume", it has been announced.

Day-trippers hoping to take their vehicles across to the town on Cumbrae were reportedly facing three-hour waits when Calmac announced services were cancelled.

It came as visitors flocked to beauty spots across the country to make the most of the good weather.

Calmac warned its services between Largs and Cumbrae were already limited due to the coronavirus crisis.

At around 2pm, a yellow alert was raised because of the "extreme volume of passengers" in North Ayrshire.

Posting on Twitter, CalMac said: "Unfortunately, with immediate effect, we have had to suspend day trips from Largs to Cumbrae due to the extreme volume of passengers and vehicles presenting at this route today."

Train services to the coast were also cut due to high passenger numbers.

A ScotRail spokesman said: 'We're having to restrict travel on some routes to just those who are making essential journeys due to the sheer numbers of people heading to the coast this afternoon."

The Cairngorms National Park Authority urged visitors to consider "alternative locations", with popular sites such as Loch Morlich extremely busy.

Balmoral Castle Estate also said the car park at Loch Muick was "overflowing" and driving conditions were "hazardous".