Lewis ferry marks one year of Sabbath breaking

Stornoway's controversial Sabbath-busting Sunday ferry marked its first year anniversary yesterday by running an extra voyage to transport a mass of travellers.

Caledonian Macbrayne received fierce criticism when it launched the first ever regular Sunday service to the Presbyterian stronghold of Lewis.

Sabbath observance is a strong tradition even amongst non-churchgoers and the decision to start a seven-day service by an outside quango - owned by the Scottish Government - angered many protesters.

Western Isles Council is still opposed to its operation and the method it was introduced. Yesterday the two ferry trips were used by an estimated 1,500 passengers heading to the mainland. The first travellers arrived at the Stornoway ferry terminal around daybreak being joined by red-eyed early rising festival campers.

Protesters from the Free Church Continuing sung Psalms as the vessel departed the quayside.

Local views are split between islanders warning it breaks the 4th Commandment to honour the Lord's Day while others say it should be looked upon as an essential marine roadway.

Missionary Donald John Morrison said: "We've been here spreading the good seed of the Gospel and it seems the spirit of yesterday and of things that matter are creeping away from the island community. The sad reality is there are many things creeping into the island that are inconsistent with Christian living and it certainly does not help when God's day is being violated.

"CalMac's Sunday ferry is inconsistent with the teachings of God's word."

A CalMac spokesman said: "The first-year carrying figures show that demand for the service is constant across the board for the year and it was popular and well utilised.

Cal Mac has argued that it is legally obliged to provide the service.