A RECENTLY formed sea shanty crew has found a home port for their weekly practice sessions at Wightlink’s Fishbourne terminal.

The Ferrymen were formed in October last year, after a poster was put up asking if anyone was interested in becoming part of the crew.

A nine-strong male group was formed, under the experienced shanty guidance of Josh Harcourt-Slowley — a crew member of the Wellington Wailers — and singing teacher Emily Hall.

A venue for weekly practice was located when one of the singers approached the Wightlink via a Fcebook page and port operations manager Martin Gulliver offered them use of the Victoria meeting room at Fishbourne.

Group member Andy Schofield said: "The Victoria room is ideal. It’s warm, has good acoustics and, of course, means we can see travellers coming and going across the Solent while we sing.”

The Ferrymen performed at several public events over the festive period, receiving positive feedback from appreciative audiences.

Other events are being planned for 2020, including a performance on board a Wightlink sailing.

Stuart James, marketing and innovation director at Wightlink, said: “When we were approached by the Ferrymen we were more than happy to support them by allowing them free use of the Victoria room.

"As travellers know, we are always keen to host onboard entertainment and we are looking forward to having the Ferrymen perform on one of our routes shortly.”