Train services to Barrhead and Neilston are among the most punctual in Scotland, latest figures show.

A report by ScotRail, covering the last 12 months, shows that 74% of all trains stopping at Barrhead were on time, while 96% got there within five minutes of their scheduled arrival.

Out of 83 stations sampled across the country, both Barrhead and Neilston were in the top 20 for punctuality, at 18th and 19th respectively.

Both have regular half-hourly services to and from Glasgow Central station.

The Barrhead line has six stops, including the city’s Nitshill, Kennishead and Crossmyloof districts.

Councillor Danny Devlin, who represents Barrhead, Liboside and Uplawmoor as an Independent, welcomed the report.

He said the fact the Barrhead to Glasgow line has few stops is a factor in punctuality.

“There is also a good service to Barrhead from Kilmarnock which then goes straight to Glasgow Central,” he added.

“The only complaints we have had over the years have been about the pigeon droppings under the railway bridge.”

Figures for Neilston show that 73% of trains arrived on time and 97% were within the five-minute window.

Three of the stops on the Neilston line – Patterton, Whitecraigs and Williamwood – are in East Renfrewshire.

A ScotRail spokesperson said: “In these extremely testing times, we are recording outstanding, and sustained, high levels of punctuality.

“We know that a dependable service is a top priority for customers who rely on our services through the pandemic.

“It’s a tribute to the hard work and dedication of ScotRail staff and Network Rail colleagues and we are determined to continue to deliver in order to make the railway the best public transport option available when the coronavirus pandemic is behind us and more normal times return.”