Could the 'retro charm' of these ancient river crossings be their saving grace?
Foot ferries were once a vital cog in the UK's transport network, but those keeping these ancient river crossings going tell of an aging workforce, rising costs and an uncertain future.
The 4m rowing boat can take four passengers - or two with bicycles - across the creek between Butley and Orford in Suffolk.A retired teacher, Mr Truman, 70, says the loss of any foot ferry is tantamount to "losing a little bit of history". Attracting fresh blood can be a struggle, says Mr Truman, and appeals for new joiners can be hit and miss with some dropping out despite showing early interest in joining the team."They are usually travelling the Suffolk Coast Path or on a circular route. If they are on the coast path and the ferry was not there, they would miss out on Orford and quite a huge area of coastline," he says.
"It was a necessity as Orford at that time was a very important port and to carry anything by any distance you had to go by river." "It is really quite magical in the mornings and I was relieved when it was back up and running again.Mr Zemann says he knew nothing about the local area when he took over the Harwich ferry
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