CONDOR Ferries' new ship has returned to Poole for repairs after it was damaged docking in Guernsey.

Condor Liberation, which made its maiden passenger voyage from Poole on Friday, was left damaged berthing in windy conditions in the Channel Islands.

It came after Sunday's sailings had already been cancelled because of forecast bad weather.

Captain Fran Collins, Executive Director – Operations at Condor Ferries, said: “On arrival in St Peter Port, Condor Liberation attempted to dock on Berth 2, but high winds prevented this, so the decision was taken to change to Berth 1.

“Whilst manoeuvring onto Berth 1 in strong winds, the ferry landed heavily against a fender, causing minor damage to the protective belting.

"As a result of this, Condor Liberation will return to Poole for repairs, which are expected to take only a couple of days.

“In the meantime, Commodore Clipper will provide passenger services between the UK and the Channel Islands. All affected passengers are being advised of the changes to their sailings”

Earlier on Saturday, Condor Ferries announced that, “due to sea conditions forecast for this Sunday that are well outside the legal operating limit for Condor Liberation it has been necessary to cancel the service”.

Passengers were being contacted by port staff and offered an alternative service.

The £50 million ship set sail for the first time on Friday.

It is currently operating with restrictions of 3.5m-high waves until it has further sea trials later in the year.

Today's waves are set to be 4.5m.