THE Cowes Floating Bridge will be out of service until the end of next week, following a further assessment of works undertaken so far.

The foot passenger launch will remain in place in the meantime, offering a shuttle service between 5am and 11pm daily, until the floating bridge is back in service.

A spokesperson for the Isle of Wight Council said: "We had hoped that, following considerable progress to repair the prow and hinge mechanism on the vessel, we would have it in service earlier.

"However, following the assessment of work and parts required today, it is not a simple fix.

"This is due to additional works being required as well as the supply and fitting of both standard and bespoke parts.

"Once the prow and hinge repairs have been completed, a crane will be used to lift the prow section back into place.

"Both prows will then be tested and once this is satisfactorily completed, it is hoped the vessel will be back in service at the end of the week."