Waverley sailing resumes after Tower Bridge disruption

 <i>(Image: Waverley)</i>
(Image: Waverley)
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Passengers hoping to sail along the Essex coast have received some welcome news after disruption forced the cancellation of a popular cruise.

A historic paddle steamer that was unable to operate a scheduled trip yesterday is now back on course following the resolution of an issue affecting its journey.

The Waverley had been due to call at Southend Pier on Sunday, but the excursion was cancelled after a problem involving Tower Bridge prevented the vessel from passing through.

However, organisers have now confirmed the issue has been resolved and today's sailing has gone ahead as planned.

A spokesman said: “Late yesterday evening, Tower Bridge reopened to allow Waverley to sail through, following the issue which had resulted in yesterday’s cancellation.

“Waverley departed Gravesend at 10.30am this morning, with calls at Southend and Clacton scheduled later today.”

The update comes after disappointed passengers were told Sunday’s cruise could not proceed because the vessel was unable to access its planned route.

Waverley, the world's last seagoing paddle steamer, regularly operates excursions from ports around the UK and is a popular attraction when it visits Essex.

Today's sailing means passengers in Southend and Clacton are once again expected to have the opportunity to board the historic vessel after the unexpected disruption caused by the bridge issue.

The latest update will come as a relief for those who had been concerned that further sailings could be affected following Sunday’s cancellation.

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