Storm damaged Isle of Man ferry returns to service

The Isle of Man's ferry has returned to service earlier than anticipated after being damaged by "prolonged use" during January's stormy weather.

Operators said the Ben-my-Chree will operate as scheduled without one of its stabilising fins which has been removed and sent for repairs.

A spokesman from the Steam Packet company said the interim measures "have no impact on safety".

He added that the ferry will operate as normal to both Heysham and Birkenhead.

The company said a second period of dry docking planned between 8-10 February will no longer be necessary.