HOVERSPEED, the cross-Channel ferry operator, looks almost certain to cease sailings from Dover from early next week although the company has made no formal statement about its future.

The firm has fuelled speculation that it is about to pull out of the town by pointing passengers towards alternative SeaFrance crossings from next Monday.

A booking agent for Hoverspeed today confirmed that all passengers taking sailings from that date would have their reservations transferred.

The agent added that the first letters notifying travellers of the changes would be sent out today.

A 30-day consultation period with staff on both sides of the Channel began at the beginning of October and was to continue until the end of business on Monday.

Today a spokesman said no announcement could be made until that process was finished.