CUMBRIA'S tourism chief says she is disappointed the out-of-action Windermere Ferry will not return to the water for the October half-term.

The ferry has not in operation since an engine fire in May, resulting in the lack of a cross-lake car ferry service for the entire summer period.

Cumbria County Council will re-open the ferry on October 27 - exactly five months since it was out of service.

Cumbria Tourism managing director Gill Haigh, pictured, said: “This announcement has been welcomed by Cumbria Tourism – although we are disappointed the ferry will not be open in time for the start of the half-term holidays, as we – and many others had hoped. By the re-opening date, the ferry will have been out of action for exactly five months. Not only did that include the annual six-week summer holiday break - the busiest time of the year, but it meant longer journeys for commuters who had to drive around the lake instead, with Windermere Lake Cruises stepping in to help foot passengers and cyclists.”

“Cumbria Tourism shared the concerns of businesses about the knock-on effects, particularly those on the western side of the lake who have reported a poor summer of trade as a result."

A council spokesman said: "The council has worked hard to get the ferry reinstated in October as it promised. Significant work has been undertaken over the summer period and we have also now employed a brand new captain and crew who will join the council on October 22. During their first week they have to undertake an intensive period of induction and health and safety training which is core to us putting the safety of our passengers first."