THE Sandbanks ferry has been spotted on its journey back to Poole.

Pictures have been snapped of the repaired Bramble Bush Bay being towed back to the harbour.

The ferry, which runs between Sandbanks and Studland, is due to resume service at the end of February.

It had been taken away in mid-November for a major refit that was expected to take four weeks.

However, while the ferry was being towed to Falmouth, it sustained damage which pushed back the return date for the craft.

During the tow, the prow arms were severely bent which one boat expert described as “a major problem”.

New prows have been manufactured in Poland and will need to be fitted on arrival this week.

A number of tests will also need to be taken before the ferry can resume service, including system and operational checks, and sea trials.

Operators say they are “still on target” to recommence service by the end of the month.