More than seven hundred people have signed a petition calling for an independent investigation into problems with the Cowes-East Cowes Floating Bridge.

Calling the troubled chain ferry a 'significant burden', those behind the petition want answers to questions about ongoing technical issues with the multi-million pound vessel.

They are also asking Isle of Wight council bosses to ensure the problems are not repeated.

People commenting on the petition have called the Floating Bridge a 'farce' and a 'laughing stock'.

CLICK HERE to see the petition for yourself.

The chain ferry is currently out of service until the end of August, at the earliest.

It developed a problem with its hydraulics after two weeks of maintenance and it is unclear when it will be running again.

Read more: Floating bridge: Transport councillor denies 30 week delay claim

The Isle of Wight Council has apologised and, in a statement released earlier this month, said: "By the end of August we will know the cause, extent of the issue, date for completion of the works and return to service.

"The Isle of Wight Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by this ongoing disruption to the service."

Read more: Council confirms floating bridge will be out for weeks

The suspension of the Medina crossing has led to pressure on the roads between Cowes and East Cowes, including through St Mary's junction, which undergone major transformation work.

A pedestrian service is running, but only until 11pm.