THE bill for making the historic Shaldon ferry seaworthy again, is more than expected – about £40,000.

She has not sailed since former operator James Trout gave up his lease in the autumn and the vessel is now undergoing a major refit at a Totnes boatyard.

The new licensee, Greg Allen, a former skipper, has taken on the contract from Teignbridge Council and has accepted an increased rent in return for the council's help in paying for the repairs.

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