BELEAGUERED Red Funnel - already preparing for strike action by staff later this month - has had to cancel some services tomorrow.

The company says some Red Jet sailings have had to be cancelled due to a limited availability of crew, and that legally it must ensure a certain number of trained staff are on every sailing.

The following Red Jets have been cancelled for Tuesday: 

Southampton to Cowes: 5:30, 6:40, 7:50, 9:00, 16:10, 17:20, 18:30.

Cowes to Southampton: 6:05, 7:15, 8:25, 9:35, 16:45, 17:55, 19:05.

A Red Funnel spokesperson said: "We apologise for the inconvenience caused to your journey."

The remaining vessels are likely to be busy, being the summer season, and travellers should allow plenty of time for their journey.

Red Funnel earlier responded to the announcement of strike dates, which fall in the busiest period of the summer holidays and includes Cowes Week.

The ferry operator reassured customers the Red Jets would not be impacted by the strike action.

Unite the Union has announced 12 strike dates. It is seeking an increased pay offer for staff.