Risk of Yell Sound ferry being suspended later today, travellers warned

ANYONE making travel plans to or from Yell is being advised to be prepared for the possibility of the service being suspended later today (Monday).

This is due to a technical issue which the voicebank service said could cause disruption later today.

An update provided later this morning said temporary repairs have been carried out to the Dagalien and the situation is being monitored.

The service is already down to a single vessel while the Daggri is in drydock.

Bluemull Sound and Whalsay are also running with a single vessel at the moment as the Geira and Hendra are also in drydock, with the former’s return to service delayed.

With the Skerries ferry Filla also out of action after rope was caught in her propellor, there are no spare vessels to provide cover.

Yell Sound being suspended would also affect onward travel to Unst and Fetlar.

At a recent council meeting ferry services were described as the most fragile they have been in years.

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The council recently started procurement for a new relief ferry, with a £10 million Scottish Government grant set to be used towards its purchase.

The idea is that this would help to provide cover in situations like these.

However it could be a couple of years yet before any new vessel is in service.

Shetland Islands Council has been contacted for more information regarding the specifics of the technical fault which could affect Yell Sound.