A NEW partnership has been formed to help ensure the future of the famous Shaldon ferry service.

David Bayliss has linked up with Greg Allen, who took over the lease of the service from Teignbridge last year.

'We are both passionate about the ferry and want to make sure it provides a first class service,' Mr Bayliss told the Post.

'The ferry is vital for businesses in Shaldon, bringing over visitors all the year around. We are looking at ways of expanding the business, and I am now licensed to operate both of our ferries.'

Mr Allen admitted that the business was only 'borderline viable', but believed that having Mr Bayliss on board would make a big difference.

'It is very good news, especially for Shaldon. We will be running the boats on a rota basis, and we are much more confident about the future, now there are two of us involved.'

Mr Bayliss added that ideas they were exploring to expand the ferry, included operating on bonfire night, running trips for local schools so children could explore the heritage of the Teign estuary, and offering a loyalty card discount to regular passengers.

The larger No 4 Ferry last year underwent a major refit at a Totnes boatyard, with the bulk of the cost being borne by Teignbridge Council.

The smaller No 5 Ferry, which Mr Allen purchased from Kings Lyn, is now having a similar renovation, paid for by the business. The total investment in ensuring the vessels are up to standard boats is estimated to be around £70,000.

The smaller craft is ideal for winter operations, when there are not so many passengers, and its canopy provides shelter when the weather is poor.

No 5 Ferry is made of steel, and was showing signs of corrosion under an old layer of resin. It was lifted out of the water and grit blasted by a Brixham company, and sprayed with a specialist epoxy resin to prevent further rust. During the work, its original name of Lyn Regis ll was uncovered.

It is now in the St Marychurch workshop of craftsman Bob Smith for hull repairs and alterations. It should be back in the estuary in November.

The ferry service is believed to be one of the oldest in the country, dating back to Elizabethan times.