The Ben-my-Chree has been involved in a collision in Heysham.

In the past few minutes (3.05pm) the Steam Packet has confirmed the vessel was pushed onto a structure in the harbour at lunchtime today (Friday).

It says the hull was punctured, creating a small hole, approximately four metres above the waterline.

No one was injured and the ship later berthed safely alongside her normal berth.

The company says the incident happened in winds gusting to 50 knots.

It says Classification Society and Flag State surveyors are inspecting the damage, and it is hoped temporary repairs will allow the Ben to resume sailing from 01.45am tomorrow.

Today's 14.15pm sailing has been cancelled and passengers have been offered a transfer to other services.

The Steam Packet Company is apologising for any inconvenience and says it's making every effort to resume normal services as soon as possible.