Crew members have been praised for their actions after a woman fell and broke her ankle while boarding the ferry at Felixstowe heading for Harwich on Monday morning.

The woman stumbled while getting on the ferry at Landguard beach and needed emergency treatment.

She was taken to hospital by an ambulance and while the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance were sent to the scene it was not required.

Air ambulance scrabled but not required

The family of the lady concerned today confirmed she was making a good recovery and as already looking forward to getting back on the ferry to complete her journey to Harwich.

A spokesperson for the family praised the actions of all involved, including crew members Sue and Angus, and the emergency services.

She added: "Thank you to everyone involved for their care, skill and professionalism."

Although this was the first incident of its kind in the nine years the Zemann family have been operating the ferry between Felixstowe, Harwich and Shotley, action has already been taken to further improve safety measures on board.

Ferry has operated nine years without accident on board (Picture: Nub News)

Lucy Zemann from the Harwich Harbour Ferry company said: "A lady was taken to hospital after sustaining a suspected broken ankle while boarding the ferry.

"She was intending to travel from Felixstowe to Harwich with her son and grandchildren.

"Our incredible crew, skipper Sue and crew member Angus administered first aid and contacted Harwich Haven Authority VTS to request an ambulance.

"We immediately contacted the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and Marine Accident and Investigation Branch to inform them of the incident.

"Although this is the first injury in our nine years of running the ferry, we have immediately added additional, non slip flooring for extra prevention.

"We'd like to wish the lady a fast recovery and we are happy to hear she is looking forward to travelling on the ferry again soon.

"We'd also like to thank HHA for their assistance and to thank the Emergency Services for their quick response."

An East of England Ambulance Service spokesperson said: "We were called at 11.35am on Sunday 29th May to a boat at Felixstowe Port with reports that an adult woman had suffered a leg injury in a fall.

"An ambulance, ambulance officer vehicle and the Essex and Herts Air Ambulance were sent to the scene.

"The patient was transported by road to Ipswich Hospital for treatment." 

Ferry services resumed as normal in the afternoon.

Full timetable and booking details here...