Ferry company warns of disruption

The Ben-my-Chree is in dry dock for repairs

Ferry passengers on services between the Isle of Man and Lancashire could face further disruption due to deteriorating weather being forecast.

The Viking services to Heysham, which replace the Ben-my-Chree to Liverpool this weekend, may be cancelled because of the weather.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company's Ben-my-Chree is going into dry dock on Friday and the Viking is taking over.

A spokesman for the company said Saturday services could be disrupted.

There is a strong likelihood that Viking sailings on 11 January will also be cancelled, the spokesman added.

The Ben-my-Chree was damaged by fishing equipment in the approach to Douglas Harbour last year.

The vessel is scheduled to re-enter service with the 0845 GMT sailing from Douglas to Heysham on 13 January.

The company said the weather system was being closely monitored and an update on Saturday's sailings would be made later on Friday.