The agreement was intended to run until the end of the year.

The States of Alderney Chief Executive Kath Jones said: “The severity and frequency of the need for major repairs to Ashlin has been extraordinarily unfortunate, and while that has been the case, the States of Alderney greatly appreciates the company’s perseverance in difficult times and the upholding of the commitment to provide alternative vessels to continue the service contributing to what appeared to be a very busy tourist season.”

The Salty Blonde Ltd was selected in March this year as the service provider to operate with a States subsidy in 2022 related to the number of successful rotations between Alderney and Guernsey.

The original intention was to operate ‘Ashlin – The Salty Blonde’ not only in the high season but also during the shoulder months through to Christmas.

However, problems with one of the vessel’s engines in May led to the temporary suspension of the service for several weeks. During this time, the operator worked closely with a number of local licensed operators in order to provide alternative ferry services. Further mechanical failure in August meant The Salty Blonde was again withdrawn from service.

The service concluded at a similar time that States-subsidised ferry services had done in previous years.