Hundreds of people have signed a petition calling for the return of Wightlink's FastCats, between Ryde Pier and Portsmouth.

A petition called "Request Wightlink reinstate the FastCat service for commuters and visitors" has gained more than 750 signatures.

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Those behind it have written: "The car ferry service and Hovercraft (at reduced capacity due to social distancing) have picked up the passengers requiring service since then.

"Since Saturday 4th July, many more people beyond key workers have returned to work safely. With the further easing of lockdown, visitors are also now travelling to the Island.

"This has put greater demand on services. Add to this the need for car passengers to once again leave their vehicles...and it is clear that the time has come for the FastCat service to resume as soon as practically and safely possible for the betterment of Island commuters and visitors, who can boost the Island's economy at a much needed time."

On Monday, Wightlink said foot passenger numbers remained very low and said it is 'constantly reviewing the situation', with further announcements in the near future.

However, it is set to increase its car ferry crossings from Friday July 24.

Read more: Wightlink - More car ferries planned but what about FastCats?

Last week, the the Isle of Wight Transport Infrastructure Board said the FastCat service was not yet financially viable or necessary.

It echoed the words of the ferry firm's chief executive Keith Greenfield.

Read more: FastCats not needed right now — says Isle of Wight transport board

Find the petition at change.org.