THE NEWEST Hi-Speed passenger catamaran to join Red Funnel's fleet — Red Jet 7 — entered the water for the first time in East Cowes yesterday (Wednesday).

Wight Shipyard was tasked to create the £7 million project following an international tender and began work in August of last year.

The new 275 seat Red Jet, which is a sister ship to Red Jet 6, will receive its final fit out and commissioning of on-board systems before extensive sea trials and crew training will take place.

A special ceremony at Trinity Parade, Cowes, on July 24 will see Red Jet 7 christened and put into action.