Community ferry launches appeal to buy new boat

The ferry has been carrying passengers for more than 30 years

Volunteers have appealed for help to buy a new boat in order to keep their community ferry running after more than 30 years of service.

The Wivenhoe, Fingringhoe and Rowhedge Ferry carries passengers across the River Colne in Essex at weekends during the summer and is crewed entirely by volunteers.

The little blue boat has been carrying 12 people at a time since 1992 but wear and tear has led volunteers to start looking for a new vessel.

Phil Booth, chair of the Wivenhoe, Fingringhoe and Rowhedge Ferry Trust, said: "The boat's getting worn out now, so it will be easier and cost-effective to replace her."

He said safety concerns meant 2025 was the last year the current vessel could be used.

"We just want to keep the ferry going," he said.

"A lot of people use the ferry. We charge £1.50 each way to use it and it runs from April, Easter time up to the end of October."

A new boat is expected to cost between £20,000 to £25,000.

Mr Booth said Colchester City Council and Wivenhoe Town Council and local businesses had donated money to the trust in the past.

"We just need to raise a few more shillings to get another boat," he said.