Shields Ferry boat returns to the water after 'weeks of extensive works'
One of the Shields Ferry’s fleet has returned to the water after improvements.
One of the boats used in Shields Ferry services has returned to the water after “extensive works.”
The Spirit Of The Tyne, which regularly shuttles passengers between South Shields and North Shields, was taken out of service for repairs.
Work included a full repaint as well as the removal of two propulsion units as part of the boat’s overhaul.
The ship's mess room and office were also refurbished.
A statement from the Shields Ferry said: “We’re delighted to say that our Shields Ferry, Spirit of the Tyne, is back in the water after some important renewal work.”
It added: “South Shields-based UK Docks Marine Services relaunched the vessel after a few weeks of extensive works were carried out on her.”
Handrails across the boat were also repaired while liferaft settings were also installed.
Ventilation spaces throughout the boat also saw a clean and new coat of paint.
After being removed from the water for the work, Nexus, the company which operates the ferry as well as the Tyne and Wear Metro, has said the boat is now back in the water and will return to passenger service soon.
The boat was introduced to the Shields Ferry fleet in 2007 and is able to carry 200 people across the River Tyne.
The work was completed locally with South Shields-based UK Docks Marine Services carrying out the improvements and restoration.
This year has been a tumultuous one for the Shields Ferry after storm damage caused the service’s northern landing to close in January. The service reopened in late April.