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CalMac has turned away 66 non-essential travellers in the last two weeks.

New rules were introduced in March by the ferry company to stop day trippers and holiday makers getting to the islands in a bid to help prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Only those making essential travel are being permitted.

A CalMac spokesman told The Oban Times: ‘Only essential travel is being allowed. We are asking passengers if their journey is essential and if so why. We have turned away 66 passengers since March 26. We need to take people on trust though.’

The 66 people prevented from boarding CalMac ferries is across the operator’s whole network.

Essential travel includes emergency services, NHS and utilities workers, teachers and food retail workers.

Argyll and Bute Council run ferries to Easdale, Luing and Lismore are now asking people to show proof of address or ID before they board.

Residents have to show a bill, letter or driving licence with their address and essential workers also have to show a letter of support and their ID badge.

Anyone without a legitimate reason is not being allowed to cross.

Across the UK people are being told to stay at home by the government. Concerns have been raised about people heading to the islands and Highlands to isolate during lockdown.

Police Scotland is stepping up visible patrols to deter non-essential travel on the roads but is not considering introducing road blocks.