The famous Waverley paddle steamer has crashed into a pier with passengers on board.

The Glasgow-based vessel hit Rothesay Pier in the Isle of Bute shortly after 3pm on Friday, damaging the front of the boat.

Worried onlookers and passengers could only watch as the vessel crashed.

Waverly Excursions, which manages the steamer, has cancelled its cruises this weekend following the crash.

A spokesman said: "On departure from Rothesay on Friday, an incident occurred in which damage was sustained to Waverley's bow.

"The ship moved back alongside and whilst the ship's officers assessed the damage, passengers were returned back home by ferry.

"As the Waverley requires to enter dry dock for repair, the weekend's Clyde sailings will now not be operating.

"Passengers have been informed and asked to return their tickets for a refund.

"Waverley will be back in service as soon as repairs have been completed.

"She is due to head south next week to start sailing s in the Bristol Channel , South Coast of England and the Thames before coming back to the Clyde to sail on October 14 and 15."

The Waverly, which entered service on June 16, 1947, sailing from the Clyde near Helensburgh up Loch Long to Arrochar, marked its 70th anniversary this year.

In 2009, the vessel struck the breakwater at Dunoon with 700 passengers on board, 12 of whom suffered minor injuries.