The Steam Packet cancelled today's Ben my Chree sailings to Heysham and return to Douglas because of weather conditions and a technical fault with the vessel.

A decision on whether the 8pm sailing to Heysham will go ahead will be made by 5pm.

Steam Packet chief executive Mark Woodward said: 'We would like to apologise to all affected passengers for any inconvenience these cancellations may cause, but safety is our primary concern and it would not be safe to try and manoeuvre Ben-my-Chree in Heysham port during the forecast adverse weather while her bow thruster power is temporarily reduced.'

The cause of the power reduction is being investigated but is thought to be due to an electrical control fault.

For updates visit http://www.steam-packet.com/LatestSailings.

Got a story? Contact Joanne on 340000 or email newsdesk@manx.net

twitter @jonewsiom