The Isle of Wight's floating bridge is out of service from today (Monday), for 12 days.

The vessel is undergoing its annual inspection by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).

Maintenance works will also be carried out.

The schedule of works to be undertaken include the replacement of drive motor and hydraulics pump and the two-year replacement of prow cables, among other things.

When announcing the planned inspection in January, Councillor Phil Jordan, Cabinet member for Transport and Infrastructure said: “The MCA’s visit is a very important time of the year for the Floating Bridge.

"The annual inspection ensures that we meet our obligations for operating a vessel in public service and while this takes place we will take the opportunity to carry out necessary planned remedial maintenance works.”

A replacement launch for foot passengers and cyclists will run in its place.

It is expected to be out of action until Friday, March 31.

When the chain ferry returns to service, vehicle users will see a rise in prices.