Returning gales cause further ferry cancellations
BBCReturning gales over the Irish Sea have led to further ferry cancellations for passengers travelling between the Isle of Man and Lancashire.
Thursday's afternoon and evening crossings by the flagship vessel Manxman between Douglas and Heysham have both been cancelled along with two sailings on Friday.
The planned 07:30 GMT departure from the island's capital was delayed by more than an hour, with the vessel not now due to return until 09:00 on Friday.
Ronaldsway Met Office said winds would strengthen through the day, reaching gusts of up to 55mph (89kmh) in the evening and overnight. Forecasters also issued a yellow weather warning for snow on the hills between midnight and 08:00.
The knock-on effect of the delay to the overnight sailing back from Heysham and ongoing adverse conditions has seen both the 08:00 and 13:45 journeys on Friday called off.
The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company said affected passengers were able to change their bookings free of charge.
The latest cancellations follow disruption caused by severe gales brought by Storm Chandra on Monday and Tuesday, which saw six sailings being called off.
Read more stories from the Isle of Man on the BBC, watch BBC North West Tonight on BBC iPlayer and follow BBC Isle of Man on Facebook and X.