Passengers planning to use the Fleetwood to Knott End ferry this weekend are being warned that the service will be closed on Sunday so the crew can enjoy Saturday night's England match with family and friends.
The operators of the historic ferry service announced the temporary closure on social media, telling customers: "Please note the ferry will be closed Sunday, July 13, so the crew can enjoy the match late Saturday night with their families and friends.
"We will however, open on Monday, where we would usually be closed.
"It's coming home."
The announcement prompted a mixed response from followers, with some seeing the decision as a light-hearted gesture and others questioning the impact on what is regarded as a public transport link.
One commenter joked: "Sincerely hope the Fire Brigade doesn't think responding to a Sunday fire on Monday is acceptable."
Another was less impressed, writing: "Are you having a laugh? How does a football match on Saturday night affect the running of a public service the following day?"
Responding to the criticism, the ferry operator explained: "It's better that our skipper doesn't drink the night before work and sail a vessel with the public on board at 7.45am.
"The skipper is working six days a week and has just swapped his day off to enjoy the match.
"Apologies if this affects you, and you were due to go on board Sunday. We are still opening Monday when we would usually be closed."
Others defended the decision, with one local writing: "We're blessed to have the ferry.
"If they want a day off to recover from a Saturday of fun and hopefully some achievement for the country, like half the nation right now, then let them."
The Fleetwood to Knott End ferry is one of Lancashire's oldest transport links and has been operating across the River Wyre since 1841.
Today, the Wyre Rose carries both residents and tourists between Fleetwood and Knott End, with the crossing taking less than 10 minutes.
By comparison, the journey by road via Shard Bridge is more than 13 miles and can take around half an hour.
Read more
The service links Fleetwood with the Over Wyre communities of Knott End, Pilling and Preesall and remains popular with visitors exploring both sides of the estuary.
In recent years, the ferry's future has faced uncertainty, but funding agreements between Lancashire County Council and Wyre Council have helped secure the continuation of the service.
Passengers affected by Sunday's closure are being advised that the ferry will operate on Monday instead, despite that normally being a non-sailing day for the crew.
Share