Isles of Scilly freight vessel experiences engine failure

Food deliveries are being organised for the Isles of Scilly

Urgent food deliveries have been set up for the Isles of Scilly in time for Christmas after a freight ship carrying chilled foods broke down.

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Company (ISSC) said the Gry Maritha returned to Penzance shortly after departure.

It said the repair was not likely to be completed until Boxing Day at the earliest.

The firm apologised for the disruption, as rival firm Harland and Wolff (H&W) stepped in to make a delivery.

H&W said it had set up a free freight service to St Mary's on Saturday.

The Gry Maritha experienced an engine failure

John Wood, H&W's chief executive, said on Facebook the service was "for any emergency items and food required for Christmas".

He said only one run was possible, because of the forecasted weather conditions.

He added: "It is an unfortunate situation and difficult to deal with at this late stage with everyone shutting down for Christmas, but we are looking at all options."

ISSC said in a travel update it was "exploring all options" for the transportation of urgent chilled food to the Scilly Isles.

"Please accept our apologies for the obvious inconvenience that this has caused, and be assured we are doing all that we can to minimise further disruption to the freight service," it said.

Follow BBC News South West on X (formerly Twitter), Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to [e-mail]