A FERRY company which was forced to cancel services between Southampton and the Isle of Wight due to overrun maintenance works insists the problems are now resolved.

Earlier today Southampton City Council urged motorists to avoid an area of the city near West Quay Road and Town Quay amid traffic chaos due to the cancelled Red Funnel ferries.

But now a spokesman for the firm which operates services from Southampton to East Cowes said the technical issue that led to seven cancellations today has been sorted.

Now passengers face delays as they travel between the mainland and the island.

He said: “It will take a little time for the timetable to slot back into place but everything possible is being done to minimise delays.

“The Red Jet service remains unaffected.

“Once again Red Funnel would like to apologise to guests and other road users for any inconvenience caused by the cancellations, which were due to the overrun of overnight engine maintenance on Red Falcon.”

Cancelled services included the 11am, 2pm and the 5pm service from Southampton to the Isle of Wight as well as the 9.30am, 12.30pm, 3.30pm and 6.30pm from East Cowes to the city.

However a spokesman for the firm said people should expect delays but there are extra ferries operating to clear the backlog of passengers.

Anyone who needs help should call 0844 844 9988.