A legal challenge against the introduction of the controversial new larger ferries between Lymington and the Isle of Wight has been put off until next month.

The Lymington River Association (LRA) wants the Wightlink ferries to be taken out of service until the potential impact on the environment has been fully assessed by the Department for Food and Rural Affairs.

The case was due to have been heard at the High Court yesterday but has been adjourned until April 3.

LRA spokesman Stephen Akester said the hearing had been delayed because it required more than the 30 minutes that had been allocated.