A PR firm has issued a statement tonight (Friday), retracting an earlier comment that Steve Porter Transport has fallen into administration.

It said: “Grayling Communications issued a statement in error on behalf of Red Funnel Ferries regarding Steve Porter Transport.

"Grayling Communications should not have issued the statement, fully retracts its contents, and apologises for this miscommunication.

"The statement in no way reflects the position of Red Funnel Ferries."

Earlier today, the Isle of Wight County Press was told the Cowes-based haulage firm would not be available for companies to use from next week.

Meanwhile, Freightways haulage posted on social media to say it was looking for immediate starts for van drivers, class 2 drivers and warehouse staff, after taking on a larger area of coverage on its pallet network business, starting from tonight.

It said: "If anyone is looking for a job or knows of anyone looking for a job please contact nathan@freightways.co.uk or 02380 016155. We are particularly interested in speaking to former Steve Porter Transport staff and can offer an immediate start."

An official statement has not been issued by Steve Porter Transport Group and its owner, KNP Logistics Group, although one has been requested.