TT ferry sailings faced disruption after the Ben-my-Chree sustained more engine problems.

It couldn’t have come at a worse time with the TT fortnight getting underway today.

The Ben had a technical problem with one of its two main engines this morning but it has since been repaired.

Following completion of repairs, the ship underwent a short sea trial at 2pm.

The 8.45am sailing has been cancelled and passengers transferred to the 3pm Manannan sailing to Liverpool, with a coach transfer taking foot passengers to Heysham if required.

Tonight's Ben-my-Chree 7.45pm departure will now sail early, at 6.15pm, and return with the delayed 2.15pm service departing Heysham at 11.45pm.

An additional sailing of Manannan is scheduled to depart Douglas for Heysham at 10.30pm and will then depart Heysham at 2am.

MV Arrow will also be used for any large vehicles which cannot be accommodated on the Manannan.

Steam Packet Company chief executive Mark Woodward said: ‘I sincerely apologise to those passengers who have been inconvenienced today. We are working as quickly as we can to restore normal services.’

This morning, following a technical issue with one of the main engines, engineers changed some components and testing indicated that the problem had been resolved.

The Ben departed for Heysham later than scheduled but shortly after leaving a further problem became apparent and the Captain decided to return to Douglas.