There's a rat on the ferry — Red Funnel's unwanted stowaway

The rodent was spotted on Red Falcon's car ferry, and according to one passenger, some of the lounge had to be cordoned off while the extra cargo was dealt with.

A spokesperson for Red Funnel confirmed: "Red Funnel received a report that a rat was sighted on Red Falcon yesterday (Wednesday) and as a result pest control was called upon for assistance.

"This was an isolated incident that was swiftly dealt with and Red Funnel took all the necessary measures to keep customers and staff safe with operations quickly returning to normal.

"Pest control have since cleared the vessel and confirmed there is no further evidence of activity.

"We apologise for any disruption to the onboard experience while we took all necessary safety precautions.”

The ferries are having extra cleans at the moment due to the Covid pandemic.

The operator said earlier this week: "We have worked extremely hard to ensure our ferries are clean and sanitary, and are confident that our customers can feel safe and relaxed travelling with us, knowing that we have taken appropriate precautions.

"These include ensuring that all high-touch surface areas including tables, counters, arm rests, railings and toilets are sanitised between every crossing."

Read more: Ferry lounges are not Covid 'superspreaders' say Wightlink and Red Funnel