THE 500-year-old Gravesend to Tilbury ferry could be up and running again by this weekend - four weeks after the service ground to a halt. It is the latest twist in a tumultuous year, which has seen the ferry service twice sunk due to cash problems.

Now owner and operator of the Princess Pocahontas, John Potter, is vowing to secure its future for good and end the months of uncertainty. The Princess Pocahontas service was halted on April 19, as the boat was needed for tourist duties.

Now Mr Potter has a new vessel, but has been unable to operate it without ownership of the West Street Pier. Just one letter stands in the way of the re-launch. Liquidators Begbies Traynor, acting for ferry operator White Horse Fast Ferries since last year, is compiling the document, which would effectively sell West Street Pier to Mr Potter.

A spokesman said on Tuesday that it should be completed by the end of the week. This follows pressure from a frustrated Kent County Council to get the ferry running again. Spokesman Rachel Moon said: "KCC and Thurrock Council have a preferred operator who will be able to commence the service straight away."

Mr Potter said: "I'm committed to bringing the ferry service back to Gravesend on a permanent basis. A new boat with twice the capacity of the old one is ready to go. All I need is to have the West Street Pier in my hands."