Fire safety is at the heart of a ban on the transportation of E-scooters on board Red Funnel ferries, from July 1, according to the Isle of Wight ferry firm.

They will be prohibited on the Southampton to the Island routes and also from inside and outside its terminals.

Meanwhile push scooters must not be ridden in those areas.

Red Funnel said: "Our policy is in place for the safety of our customers and staff due to fire safety concerns associated with e-scooter batteries, as well as the incidence of both E-scooter and push scooter-related accidents resulting in personal injury.

"Our policy is consistent with other transport operators and reflects a policy undertaken by ABP (Associated British Ports), which prohibits the use of scooters in any part of their port operations and estates.

"We thank our customers for understanding that our on-board and terminal areas are unsuitable environments for scooter usage. The safety of our customers and staff is our top priority."

The firm added: "Until we hear differently from ABP, this policy will not extend to electric bikes."

In the Queen's Speech, the government unveiled plans to legalise the use of personal E-scooters.

Currently, only rented ones can be ridden on public roads.