THE Isle of Wight chain ferry has been closed after a worker was reportedly hit by a car which crashed into the vessel.

The man, thought to be a member of the chain ferry staff, was said to have been pinned against the gates of the boat when the car collided with it last night.

The ferry, known as Cowes floating bridge, has been suspended and will be replaced by water taxi services for foot passengers until at least midnight.

The man's injuries are serious but not critical, a spokesman for the ambulance service said.

The driver of the car was reported to have been treated at the scene.

The closure is likely to result in disruption as the annual Cowes Week yachting regatta which begins today.

Isle of Wight Council apologised for the inconvenience.

In a statement posted on their Facebook page last night the council said: ''Cowes Floating Bridge is currently suspended until further notice. This is due to the vessel being damaged by a vehicle that drove into it.

''Water taxi services for foot passengers will operate in place of the floating bridge, between Cowes and East Cowes tomorrow from 7am until midnight. Limited service will operate between 6pm and 7pm tomorrow.''

The ferry normally operates 365 days a year and brings foot passengers and vehicles across the River Medina.