The ferry service linking Arran with the mainland will continue to berth at Ardrossan Harbour, it has been announced.

It comes after a study found the North Ayrshire town remained the best option for the service.

Troon, in neighbouring South Ayrshire, had also put a bid in for the route.

Keith Brown, cabinet secretary for the economy, said: "Having considered all the evidence and representations, we have decided that retaining Ardrossan as the mainland port for the Arran ferry service is the best option.

"The study looked at the options under four broad pillars: connectivity, reliability, overall operational cost to the public purse and socio-economic considerations.

"We carried out consultation with all the key stakeholders, including groups representing the community on Arran who depend on this transport link. It plays a key role in keeping them connected to the mainland as well as supporting the tourist trade by bringing visitors to the island."

Port operators Peel and North Ayrshire Council have pledged to invest in improved facilities at Ardrossan Harbour following the decision, the minister added.

Council leader Joe Cullinane said: "People throughout North Ayrshire will be relieved and delighted that the minister has reached the right decision.

"While it's regrettable that we have had six months of uncertainty, I'm enormously proud of how the communities of Arran and Ardrossan have rallied behind our fantastic 'Keep it A to B - Save Our Ferry' campaign.

"It has been a magnificent example of a community-wide response to a very real threat to the economic well-being of North Ayrshire and everyone should be proud of the commitment and spirit of our campaign."