HOVERTRAVEL has added a new earlier flight to its timetable by including a 7.45am departure from Ryde on Saturdays.

The cross-Solent operator said it was in response to customer feedback.

The new flight starts on September 17 and runs through until December 10.

Loretta Lale, head of commercial at Hovertravel, said: “We are always listening to our customers and having received feedback about starting earlier on Saturdays, we have decided to introduce this additional flight at 7.45am. 

"We will review the demand for the extra services on weekly basis and make a decision whether this can be a permanent addition in December.

"As can be seen from our successful recent bank holiday extra late night flights, Hovertravel is committed to answering demand from the communities on either side of the Solent.”

The requests for earlier flights came from individuals, the local council and a variety of other groups, including Portsmouth Grammar School.

Luke Rees, deputy head (innovation) at Portsmouth Grammar School, said: “Our pupils gain so much from being able to take part in a range of co-curricular opportunities, including sport, that happen on a Saturday.

“We really appreciate that Hovertravel has put on this additional service as it will make it so much easier and we hope it is a success.”

There is also a new 8am departure from Southsea.

More information can be found at www.hovertravel.co.uk