THE Sandbanks Ferry could remain out of action for at least another week.

The Bournemouth-Swanage Motor Road and Ferry company, which operates the service, said works are "progressing", however the service will not return this week as initially hoped.

A spokesperson for the firm said: "This (returning to service this week) is now delayed and hopefully return to service by the end of next week (w/c 14/1) but we will update as soon as we have any further information."

Firefighters were called to the ferry on December 21, shortly after it had returned from scheduled maintenance work.

The problem was identified as a hydraulic leak.

The ferry had been spotted operating on Saturday, December 29 "dropping off staff cars", according to a resident.

Without a return to service this week, the ferry has now only operated on two days for the past 11 weeks.

  • If you have been affected by the prolonged absence of the Poole Harbour crossing we want to hear from you. Contact the newsdesk on 01202 411293 or newsdesk@bournemouthecho.co.uk.