The first ferry trip from Sheppey to Southend for two decades has sailed today.

It was full steam ahead for the inaugural voyage - but just days ago there were still teething problems.

The Queenborough Harbour Trust admitted last-minute details had still not been confirmed just one week ago.

Spokesman Geoff Reed said they had been waiting for the insurers to accept the various risk assessments and procedures, and there had been additional safety concerns around accommodating day trippers.

The first ferry sailed at 8.30am. All tickets sold out within hours of the trip being announced in May.

Mr Reed said: “JetStream put the tickets on sale before we had agreed we could do this. They have since apologised.”

The Southend ferry has the backing of Swale council, especially ward councillors Cameron Beart and Peter Marchington.

David Wilcock, who came up with the idea and is working with JetStream, is putting together an antique and collectors street market in Blue Town on Sunday September 10 to raise funds for Island Cruises, Queenborough Harbour Trust and the Blue Town Heritage Centre and has teamed up with vintage shop owner Sally Champion.

He has been in talks with Peel Ports and ferry operators and is hoping day trips to Southend will become a regular summer attraction.

He said: “Once we see how the trial goes we will be in a position to know if the whole package is viable.”

Ambitious plans include building a Victorian-style pier off Sheerness. He said: “Sheppey desperately needs a top tourist attraction to bring more visitors to the Island.

"It would cost about £5 million, which is a lot of money but not excessive when seeking regeneration funds.”

Queenborough Harbour Trust recently won £100,000 from the Coastal Communities Fund to add 60 new moorings and is becoming increasingly busy.

To take part in the street market call Dave on 07584 421937.