THE return of the ferry service operating on Windermere is now just weeks away.

The ferry has out been out of action since dozens of passengers and vehicles were evacuated from the vessel after smoke started billowing from the engine room in May.

Extensive repairs have been carried out over the summer and a new engine has now been installed on the Cumbria County Council-run service.

The ferry is due back on the water on October 27 - signalling the end of a frustrating summer tourist season for businesses, and for locals.

“It is good news for people," said Cllr James Airey, leader of the Conservatives on the authority.

“There will be more access for tourists but even more importantly for the residents who have had to make detours.

"They are the people who have been really badly affected. It’s been really awkward for people driving 40 or 50 minutes extra on bad roads to get to appointments.”

A final assessment of the ferry is due to be carried out by the The Maritime Coastguard Agency next week before new staff start a full week of training.

Safety testing is set to be carried out on Thursday and Friday of next week before it reopens to public use on the Saturday.

The time it has taken for the ferry to become operational again has been criticised by Cllr Airey.

“The time it has taken to get the ferry back up and running has been utterly ridiculous," he said.

"Any private enterprise would have sorted this weeks and weeks ago.

“We are seeking assurances from the county council that we never have an incident like this happen at such a critical period."