A MUCH-LOVED community asset has bounced back after it sustained unprecedented damage in a storm last year.

The Harwich Harbour Ferry is set to return to action next week as it will continue providing its vital service to the area.

The historic foot and bicycle ferry was put in jeopardy last September by an exceptional and unpredicted storm which slammed the 40-foot vessel against a pontoon, damaging the hull.

The ferry was ripped from its mooring at Ha’penny Pier, Harwich, filled with water, and badly damaged.

Such is the popularity of the service, a GoFundMe appeal was immediately set-up by a well-wisher to help get it back onto the water, eventually raising more than £12,000.

Owners Chris and Lucy Zemann, who have built up a successful business since taking it over in 2015 when it was on the brink of closure, have been working tirelessly to repair the vessel.

The ferry itself is a fighter too, having previously been a lifeboat on the SS Canberra so, despite sustaining extensive damage, it did not sink.

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: The almost repaired ferryThe almost repaired ferry

Lucy said: “We are absolutely delighted to be back on the water and can’t wait to welcome residents and tourists back aboard.

“It has been a long, labour-intensive mission but now the ferry is better than ever and looking very smart.

“Every year we ferry 30,000 people between Harwich, Shotley and Felixstowe, supporting many other local businesses and providing an essential service connecting these communities and bringing pleasure to thousands.

“Now, more than ever, people want something fun and different to do outdoors, so we expect to be busy.”

Harwich and Manningtree Standard: Some of the damage sustained Some of the damage sustained

Large sections of the port side of the boat were damaged in the storm and all the electronics were lost, including the booking, card payment and ticketing systems.

The engine was flooded and the most urgent need was to preserve it. It was taken apart, serviced and put back together with new gaskets and cylinders.

Work has also included the installation of new safety systems, as well as repairs made to the fiberglass hull, floor and passenger cabin.

Lucy added: “We have been inundated with messages of support and it really means so much to know how loved and needed the ferry is.

“We send our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has sent words of encouragement and to every single person who donated.

“We also want to thank the incredible craftsmen, experts and volunteers, including the brilliant team at Suffolk Yacht Harbour, who worked tirelessly with us to bring the ferry back to life.”

The ferry will return from March 29 and bookings can be made via its website.