THE Waverley's 2020 sailing season - including calls at Kilcreggan pier - has been cancelled after more than 20 people were injured in a crash on board the famous vessel.
The iconic paddle steamer only returned to sailing two weeks ago having been out of action for two years while restoration work took place.
On Thursday, the vessel collided with Brodick pier on the Isle of Arran with around 250 passengers on board; 24 people have since been confirmed as having suffered injuries, with several requiring hospital treatment.
The Waverley's bow was also damaged in the incident and its operators Waverley Excursions Ltd have now announced that this year's sailings will no longer be fulfilled.
A statement said: "Waverley made heavy contact while berthing at Brodick Pier on Thursday, September 3 and will be unable to undertake any further sailings this season.
"We extend our thanks to everyone who has supported our sailings in 2020."
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Gavin Saxby was onboard the Waverley with his family when he said there was a loud bang.
Emergency services rushed to the scene along with a search and rescue helicopter.
Gavin told our sister paper, the Ardrossan and Saltcoats Herald: "I was up on deck, we were approaching the jetty and didn't seem to be slowing down and all of a sudden most people on the deck were knocked off their feet and there was a bang.
"The crew were on the ball, dealing with the first aid, keeping everything in order and once the ambulance crew had arrived and presumably all triage work done the uninjured passengers were allowed off."
An HM Coastguard spokesman said: "A coastguard search and rescue helicopter from Prestwick and two Helimed were sent, along with Arran coastguard rescue team. Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, Scottish Ambulance Service and Police Scotland were at the scene.
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"213 passengers and 26 crew were onboard at the time of the collision.
"24 people reported injuries and were treated on scene, at the hospital on Arran, or transported by helicopter to hospital on the mainland.
"Along with partner agencies we worked to ensure everyone was taken safely from the vessel, and those who did not require medical treatment were taken to Ardrossan by ferry.
"All emergency services had left the scene at 4am today."
The collision took place just one day after bosses at the PS Waverley extended its limited season due to phenomenal demand.
The Waverley returned to Kilcreggan pier last Friday, August 28 and its operators had decided to extend sailings until September 12.
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