Shields ferry to resume service on Sunday as lockdown easing continues

The Shields Ferry will resume services this weekend.
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Nexus, the public body which owns and operates the ferry, is to resume normal operations from this Sunday, May 31, as the coronavirus lockdown continues to ease.

The Sunday service will operate to the normal timetable, with the first ferry leaving South Shields at 10.15am, and the last leaving North Shields at 6pm.

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Cyclists are being warned social distancing measures mean there will be room for only four bikes per crossing. People travelling in groups may be asked to wait for later crossings, and should use the Tyne Pedestrian and Cycling Tunnel as an alternative.

The Shields ferry will resume on SundayThe Shields ferry will resume on Sunday
The Shields ferry will resume on Sunday

People are still being advised to only travel on the Ferry if they need to, such as for work if they cannot do so from home, and where they are unable to walk, cycle or use a car.

Ferry Manager Carol Timlin said: “Now that the lockdown restrictions are easing we are bringing back operations on a Sunday.

“The message to customers is that the ferry is there when people need to use it, for work, shopping or to visit family.

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“Cyclists who are out for leisure trips should avoid using the service. This is so that we have the room on board for social distancing for passengers who need to travel.

“The ferry is very popular with cyclists, especially in the summer, but it is vital that they follow this advice until lockdown restrictions are eased further.”

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The ferry will be running from 6.45am to 7.30pm on Monday to Saturday, with a 30-minute operation in place.

Later evening crossings normally timetabled to operate on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings remain suspended until further notice.

Only card payments are currently accepted on board.

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Covid-secure measures on the ferry include new signage, floor markings and customer information throughout the two vessels – Pride of the Tyne and Spirit of the Tyne.

Some seats have been closed off to create space for the two-metre social distance.

Boarding ramps have new markings for social distancing and the crew will control access and boarding.

A plastic screen has been erected where passengers pay to get on board.

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