All Ferry services to and from Arranmore Island have resumed as normal.
Hundreds of people left stranded on Arranmore have finally departed from the Island after being delayed for an extra 24 hours due to a severe storm.
A large crowd had descended on the Island for the popular ARRANMOJO Music Festival which took place over the weekend.
However, as people prepared to leave, weather conditions worsened yesterday afternoon as Arranmore began to get battered by gale force winds.
Local Ferry companies made the decision to suspend the ferry service amid fears over safety.
The decision left hundreds of musicians and revellers stranded on the Island for the night.
Local spokesman for the Island Jerry Early praised those stranded for their understanding of the situation, he also praised his fellow islanders for the kindness they showed those stranded by not charging them to stay overnight in the B&B’s.
Early told Donegal Daily, “I have to thank those stranded for their understanding of the situation, many had work commitments and were keen to get off the Island, but due to the adverse weather it was just too dangerous.
“The Ferry companies made the correct decision, it was just far too dangerous to partake in the crossing, as the winds increased and the waves got bigger.
“We all rallied around and a special mention must go to those running the B&B’s on the Island for allowing those stranded to stay for free.
“It was a great gesture and one that was greatly appreciated by all those who were unfortunately stranded.
Early also praised the musicians for turning what was initially a very negative situation into a positive.
“A special mention also to the musicians who turned a negative into a positive, they got together and made it a great night.
“It wasn’t long before people forgot about the storm, and started enjoying the fantastic entertainment on show, it was a great night.
“One person that didn’t seen to upset that he was stranded said to me, ‘Sure there’s no better place in the world to get stuck for the night.
As the Island swayed from side to side with the wind, those inside re-enacted the swaying into the early hours.
No work on Monday sure what else would you be at.
Tags:
