NEW multi-million-pound ferries on a cross-Solent route have been hit by a new problem - strong winds.

The controversial W-class vessels are having to operate under strict safety rules until the final sea trials have been carried out.

They were taken out of service yesterday because they are not allowed to operate if the wind exceeds a certain speed.

The old C-class ferries were brought back into the service and continued to operate on the route until this morning, when they were replaced by the new ferries. Passengers say both changeovers resulted in long delays.

Now attention is focusing on what will happen after the C-class vessels lose their safety certificates at the end of the week.

If the certificates are not renewed, the craft will be unable to replace the new ferries in windy weather, leaving passengers with no service.

The new vessels have also been hit by technical problems since they were introduced almost two weeks ago.

A Wightlink spokesman was unavailable for comment.