Isle of Wight passenger ferry services have been cancelled ahead of Sunday evening (October 15) following the absence of an essential crew member.

Due to the absence onboard Wightlink's Ryde Pier Head to Portsmouth Harbour FastCat service, multiple sailings will not operate.

The 8.53pm, 10.15pm and 11.10pm crossings from Ryde and the 9.45pm and 10.45pm sailings from Portsmouth have been cancelled.

To assist impacted customers, Wightlink is providing a minibus to operate between Ryde and Fishbourne ferry port from 9pm to 11.30pm on Sunday.

A spokesperson from the cross-Solent travel provider said: "We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience this action may cause, but we have been unable to source short notice cover for the absent members of staff and so have taken this action as a last resort." 

All booked customers have been notified and moved to alternative sailings.