14/5/2009 - Mallard makes early return to water

The Windermere ferry will be back up and running nearly a week ahead of schedule following its five-yearly refit and full inspection.

Mallard, a vessel that can carry 18 cars and more than 100 passengers across England’s largest lake between Bowness and Far Sawrey, was taken out of service on April and wasn’t due to be back on the timetable again until Saturday May 23.

But following good weather and excellent progress by the contractors carrying out the inspection and revamp, she will now be in operation again on Monday (May 18).

In common with other passenger carrying vessels Mallard, owned and operated by Cumbria Highways, is required to have a periodic out of water inspection by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, and this inspection was timed to coincide with a refit where she has been cleaned and painted throughout and had her mechanical, electrical and hydraulic components inspected and repaired or replaced if necessary.

Most of the refit was carried out on the slipway at Lakeside and it also involved modifying the end of Mallard’s loading ramps, making it easier to operate in difficult weather conditions.

John Robinson, Cumbria Highways network manager, said: "Lots of hard work and good weather has meant that we’ve been able to bring the ferry back into service five days sooner than anticipated.

"The inspection was successful and the work that has been carried out means Mallard will be in top condition ahead of the busy summer season." 

While Mallard has been out of the water an alternative passenger launch has been operating between pier three in Bowness Bay and the Ferry House jetty.

ENDS

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