Ferry suffers 'technical issue' on return to sea

Red Eagle had required further repair work after being in dry dock for an annual refit

Ferry passengers were facing disruption on Saturday after a vessel broke down, having just returned to service.

Red Funnel said its Red Eagle vehicle ferry, sailing between between East Cowes and Southampton, had suffered a "technical issue".

The ferry had been delayed in returning to service after its annual refit.

A number of sailings were cancelled during the morning, with the operator apologising for inconvenience to passengers.

The ferry company also cancelled the 12:30 BST sailing from East Cowes and the 14:00 crossing from Southampton.

The non-league football match between Sherborne Town and Cowes Sports, due to be played in Dorset, was cancelled as the Cowes club was "unable to make alternative travel arrangements", according to the Wessex League.

Red Funnel had extended its winter timetable until 4 April due to Red Eagle's delayed return from its annual refit.

It previously said it had been discovered, as the vessel was leaving dry dock, that it needed further work, meaning legally-required inspections had to be rearranged.

Red Funnel has been contacted for further comment.