RESIDENTS have been voicing their concern over Exeter City Council s decision not to supply a temporary worker to fill the role of Topsham s ferryman while he is on holiday. The current ferryman was expected back to work on December 19 after taking an aut

RESIDENTS have been voicing their concern over Exeter City Council's decision not to supply a temporary worker to fill the role of Topsham's ferryman while he is on holiday.

The current ferryman was expected back to work on December 19 after taking an authorised holiday break, but failed to return on the due date.

Maggie Butt, chair of the Topsham Community Association, said she had sent a letter to the council on behalf of residents, concerned that no replacement was laid on by the local authority during his absence.

The ferry service is governed by Exeter City Council.

Maggie said: "Several people reported to me that they were very concerned he hadn't been replaced for the period he was away. He was expected to be away for either three or four weeks."

A spokesperson for the local authority said: "We regret the temporary closure of the Topsham Ferry Service and are working to get it back in action as soon as we can.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused.