WIGHTLINK has assured Brockenhurst College students sailing over from the Isle of Wight that they will keep the vital 7.30am sailing from Yarmouth to Lymington.

Panic ensued last week when parents noticed the sailing wasn't listed on Wightlink's website.

Several contacted Island MP Bob Seely and one concerned mother told the County Press: "Brock students cannot get to their 9am lectures unless they get the 6.20am crossing.

"It's totally unacceptable they axe the most used crossing. It's the lifeline crossing."

However, when the County Press checked the Wightlink website, the sailing had been reinstated, and a spokesperson from the cross-Solent ferry operator said: "We can confirm that the 7.30am sailing from Yarmouth to Lymington is part of our winter timetable and is now available to book in our system."

There was no explanation about why the sailing hadn't previously been added.

 

Island MP Bob Seely said today: "I have written to (Wightlink CEO) Keith Greenfield to check that this is a mix-up, and requesting he confirm that Wightlink recognises their service's importance to students, their parents, and Brockenhurst College.

"I have also asked Mr Greenfield to ensure that this service continues, allowing students to get to Brockenhurst College, on time, for their studies in future.

"I would also like to wish all of the Island's students well on their return for a new academic year."

The County Press has contacted Brockenhurst College for a statement.

The parent said the next problem is the sailing at the end of the day, as the popular 5pm return crossing has been axed from the winter timetable, which has been brought in already.

Students now have to wait until 6pm - meaning they are hanging around the station for about 90 minutes every day after college.