More than six weeks after it sacked almost 800 workers, leading to the suspension of its cross-Channel operation, P&O Ferries has resumed its passenger service between Dover and Calais.

In a tweet, the ferry operator said it would operate between Dover and Calais with one ship only until 7 May.

The Spirit of Britain has been cleared to sail again after being detained previously by coastguards for failing a safety inspection.

A second ship, Pride of Kent, has also been detained by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, but it is currently undergoing a fresh inspection.

Two other ships are also unavailable.

P&O Ferries said pre-booked passenger who can’t get on Spirit of Britain this week will be switched to rival DFDS services.