AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after a young child fell off the gangway while waiting for the Red Jet at Cowes.

The child fell onto an inflatable bumper and was rescued by onlookers. He suffered scratches, but was otherwise OK.

A spokesperson for Red Funnel said: “We are aware of an incident in West Cowes earlier today, in which a child took a fall between the gangway rail and vessel while boarding the Red Jet.

"He landed on top of the fender and was quickly retrieved by other passengers and the cabin attendant who had been helping a disabled passenger.

"He was returned to his mother in a matter of seconds and suffered minor scratches but was seen to with the appropriate first aid support and assistance.

“Safety is always our top priority, and we are investigating today’s incident and ensuring the appropriate action is taken including reaching the boy’s mother to check in on how he is doing.”

The Red Jets, which travel between Cowes and Southampton, are expected to get busier from Monday, when the next stage of the roadmap out of lockdown begins.

Extra evening sailings have been added. Read more here