THE man who oversaw the controversial introduction of three new Wightlink ferries in Lymington has suddenly left the company.

A short statement from the Hampshire to Isle of Wight ferry firm said former chief executive Andrew Willson, pictured right, had left “by mutual consent”.

He was at the helm of the company as it sailed into storm of local anger over the new W Class ships worth £27m, on its Lymington to Yarmouth route. Residents said at four metres longer, one metre wider and a whole deck higher than the Cclass ships they replace, the ferries would damage the river.

The Croatian built craft are still the subject of High Court action from residents concerned at the level of water they displace Now, just weeks after they entered service, Mr Willson has abruptly stood down from his high-profile role.

Wightlink’s owners, Australian investment fund Macquarie Capital, have parachuted in an interim replacement, Dyson Bogg, while they launch a hunt for Mr Willson’s successor.