Hythe ferry bosses have praised the numerous organisations which helped them to keep their boats running after Hythe Pier was badly damaged by a dredger.

The Hythe to Southampton ferry service has been operating from Hythe Marina Pontoon since the accident on November 1, but boats were due to resume using the pier today.

The ferry service is owned and operated by White Horse Ferries and director Peter Lay said: "Our most rewarding experience has been the way this unfortunate incident has galvanised the whole community."

He praised port operators Associated British Ports, Hampshire County Council, New Forest Council and Hythe Parish Council, as well as Hythe Ferry Users' Group and his own staff.

The pier will be officially reopened tomorrow by Ted Vaughan, chairman of the ferry users' group.