Emergency fears over ferry link

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Islanders in Argyll are warning emergency medical cover has been downgraded after an out of hours ferry service was withdrawn at the weekend.

The concerns have been raised by the 200 residents on Luing, near Oban.

New working conditions mean the link is not available round the clock to allow access to a GP, or emergency services.

Argyll and Bute Council said it was looking for a solution but other islands rely on services such as the air ambulance or coastguard.

However, local MP Alan Reid said a helicopter would need a landing site and lights, the Oban lifeboat would take too long and the ferry remains the most sensible solution.