ScotRail will add an extra off-peak train service between Ayr and Glasgow – two months after a controversial timetable cut.

When the operator announced the proposal to alter the timetable, Renfrewshire Council and local politicians argued it would mean the number of trains serving Paisley Gilmour Street was effectively being cut.

Now ScotRail has confirmed it will operate a further hourly, off peak service between Ayr and Glasgow, serving Paisley, on Saturdays, but not until May.

And from May 2014, a similar service will also run Monday to Friday.

It means that the current off peak Glasgow to Irvine services – introduced in December 2012 – will run all the way to Ayr and all new services will call at Paisley Gilmour Street in both directions.

Steve Montgomery, managing director of ScotRail, said: "Ayr is a major destination in its own right.

"These additional services will further improve transport links for people in Kilwinning, Irvine, Barassie, Troon and Prestwick."

Renfrewshire Council leader Mark Macmillan said: "We warned the cuts in the number of journeys from Paisley to Ayr was a mistake.

"It has taken just two months for the true impact to become apparent and this change to be made."

Labour West of Scotland MSP Neil Bibby added: "I am pleased ScotRail and the Scottish Government have finally seen sense and plan to reverse their cuts.

"I only wish they had listened to concerns raised by myself and others earlier. Renfrewshire and Ayrshire passengers will still face significantly reduced direct services for next 15 months.

ewan.fergus@ eveningtimes.co.uk