Manxman delayed after issues with "critical piece of safety equipment"

SPC investigating the cause

This morning's Manxman sailing was delayed for an hour because of issues with a "critical piece of safety equipment".

The bowsing-in lines for the Marine Evacuation System - which is used in place of lifeboats in an emergency - came adrift from their securing as the vessel lifted off the pier.

The equipment had to be re-stowed using a shore crane before being able to proceed, which caused the delay to the 8.45am sailing.

Isle of Man Steam Packet says the issue is going to be investigated and measures put in place to make sure it's unlikely to happen again.

There's no word on whether later sailings will be affected.