Gales to cause Friday ferry passenger disruption

Gales over the Irish Sea have led to disruption for ferry passengers due to travel between the Isle of Man and Lancashire on Friday.

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company said, due to the expected adverse conditions, the Manxman's 14:30 GMT crossing from Heysham to Douglas had been cancelled.

The flagship vessel's evening return to the Lancashire port, scheduled to at depart 20:30, had also been called, the firm said.

Ronaldsway Met Office said gusts of up to 50mph (80km/h) were expected to hit the island on Friday afternoon.

The Steam Packet said passengers booked to travel on the affected sailings could amend their tickets online or by contacting the reservations desk.

Saturday's scheduled crossings, including the 03:00 sailing from Heysham to Douglas, are expected to depart as scheduled.

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