This is when the Shields Ferry will return to a full timetable as travel restrictions are eased

Nexus, the public body which owns and operates the cross-Tyne service, will restore services after 6.30pm on weekdays and on Saturdays, from Sunday, April 18.

The last crossing of the day from North Shields will be at 8pm, Monday to Wednesday, and 10.50pm Thursday to Saturday.

Customer Services Director at Nexus, Huw Lewis, said: “I’m pleased to confirm that the Shields Ferry timetable will return to normal from Sunday, April 18.

“The crossings after 6.30pm return on weekdays and on Saturdays, creating more room for social distancing as we move through the next phase of the Government’s route of lockdown.

“The decision to reduce the service in November last year was kept under review, and now that the country has moved to the next stage of restrictions easing the time was right to run more services.

“Customers are still advised to minimise travel, follow social distancing rules and good hand hygiene, and wear a face covering on board at all times unless exempt.”

Ferry passenger numbers have been significantly reduced due to Covid-19 restrictions, but ferry operator Nexus said the re-opening of non-essential retail and outdoor hospitality was the right moment to return to normal services.

The Government’s instruction to only travel if a journey is essential has now ended, and people are now advised to minimise the number of journeys that they make, where this is possible.

The ferry timetable on Sundays is not changing and services will continue to end at 6pm.

Full information can be found at www.nexus.org.uk/ferry

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