The Cowes to East Cowes floating bridge returns next week.

The Isle of Wight Council has confirmed to the County Press that it will resume service at 5am on Monday.

The chain ferry has been out of action since August, racking up delay after delay.

In its absence, motorists have been driving the long way round - via Newport - and foot passengers have relied on two replacement launches to cross the Medina.

This month, adverse weather meant they were cancelled briefly too, leaving parents worried about their children who cross the river to go to school.

The floating bridge's return was confirmed last month and Isle of Wight Council says it is on course to be back on Monday.