Funding agreed for trial of extra ferry sailings

Funding has been approved for a trial of additional weekend ferry services.

The States of Alderney's Economic Development Committee has approved the trial of extra sailings between the island and Guernsey during the summer season.

The committee said it was hoped the additional services, which would be operated by Islands Unlimited, would improve weekend connectivity for residents and visitors during the peak period.

The additional sailings would represent a limited, seasonal trial rather than a long-term commitment or exclusive arrangement with any operator, the committee added.

Stuart Clark, chair of the Economic Development Committee, said it was "positive news" for Alderney.

He said: "These additional sailings will provide more travel options for both residents and visitors during the summer, while also allowing us to trial the operation of a larger passenger vessel serving the island."

He said it was "important that we explore every opportunity to strengthen our transport resilience".

"This trial complements our existing air and sea links and will provide valuable experience as we continue to develop longer-term connectivity solutions for Alderney," he added.

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.