Weather conditions force Ben to switch to Birkenhead

The Ben-my-Chree had to change destination this morning due to the weather conditions at Heysham.

The vessel had been due to sail from Douglas to the Lancashire port as usual, but adverse weather meant the crossing went to Birkenhead instead.

As a result, the 2.15pm crossing from Heysham will now depart from Birkenhead at 2.30pm instead, with passengers asked to check in no later than 2pm.

Winds reaching severe gale force nine are forecast in Morecambe Bay this afternoon, preventing the Ben operating from Heysham.