Isle of Wight ferry drama on Red Funnel after Take That gig

There was particular praise for staff on Red Funnel and floating bridge workers on the Island, who "made it work, whatever the conditions."

Those who went to Southampton to watch Gary Barlow and co at St Mary's Stadium had to have more than a little patience when long queues formed as they tried to head home.

An additional Red Jet sailing to the Island, at 11.45pm, was announced prior to the concert but readers reported that the sailing was full and unable to accommodate any more people.

This resulted in hundreds of foot passengers having to queue to get on the midnight car ferry, which departed late.

Meanwhile, some car ferry passengers already booked on the crossing said they were told they would have to wait until the 5am sailing this morning.

After protesting, they said they were eventually allowed on.

A cheer went out when Red Funnel announced that the floating bridge crew had waited on an extra hour to make sure those arriving in East Cowes could get back.

One person said: "If they had ran a couple more Red Jets, especially knowing how busy it would be, the car ferry wouldn’t have had the problems and the floating bridge staff wouldn’t have to stay on, and everyone wouldn’t have felt so stressed and late home."

While another person said: "Terrible service, couldn't believe the lack of communication to us waiting for the Red Jet.

"Thank goodness we managed to get on the car ferry. Such a shame after a great concert."

Take That on stage at St Mary's Stadium, Southampton (Image: NQ)

Take That on stage at St Mary's Stadium, Southampton (Image: NQ)

There was praise for Red Funnel and floating bridge staff, though.

One person said: "Well done to the workers who made it work and got people home, whatever the conditions."

Supported by pop star Olly Murs, Gary Barlow, Mark Owen and Howard Donald are also performing at St Mary's Stadium again tonight.

Red Funnel has been approached for comment.