WIGHTLINK has cancelled six of its FastCat sailings today (Thursday) due to essential staff absences.

The ferry provider has said that the 4.40pm, 5.40pm, and 6.45pm sailings from Portsmouth, as well as the 5.10pm, 6.10pm and 7.15pm sailings from Ryde, have been cancelled.

The company said on Twitter: "Due to short notice absence of an essential member of crew these sailings have been cancelled.

"We apologise for any changes to your travel plans."