AN extra Ben-my-Chree sailing has been scheduled for this weekend to enable the Steam Packet Company to clear potential freight backlog.

It follows this week's high winds which have led to the cancellation of three return sailings.

The Ben-my-Chree will operate an 8pm sailing to Heysham on Saturday with a return service at 2.15am on Sunday.

John Watt, the commercial director for the Steam Packet Company, said: "The Ben-my-Chree was scheduled for general maintenance overnight on Saturday/Sunday but this has been rescheduled to allow us to provide the additional return sailing.

"Wind direction as well as strength has been an issue this week even with the repaired and refitted second bow thrust unit.

"We may have caught up on freight before the weekend but this extra service for passengers and freight customers will provide more choice and additional cover."

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