The return of the Barfleur ferry, which will travel today from Poole to Cherbourg for the first time in a year, is set to accommodate in excess of 400 passengers and 116 cars.

The popularity of the Barfleur’s return has pleased the ferry’s operator, Brittany Ferries, whose spokesperson Chris Jones stated: “For the first crossing, passenger numbers are looking very good. We are just delighted to see the ship back and we hope that people will use it”.

The Chief Executive of Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), Jim Stewart, said: “PHC and Brittany Ferries are working closely together on marketing and we are confident that the service will be successful for both freight and passengers. Many UK ferry ports are currently seeing reductions in ferry activity – we are very pleased to see Poole bucking the trend”.

Meanwhile, Councillor Ron Parker explained that passengers would need to do their bit to secure the Barfleur’s long-term future on the Poole to Cherbourg crossing. Councillor Parker said: “It’s good news we have got the Barfleur back and we have got to make sure we keep it. It’s a bit like the post offices, if we don’t use it we lose it”.

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