‘A new high speed ferry service linking Ramsgate to the French port of Boulogne will start later this year, it has been confirmed.

Euroferries’ long awaited arrival was confirmed at a press conference at the Port of Ramsgate this afternoon.

A new catamaran is expected to make its first cross channel sailing in September.

Thanet council officials, who attended today’s announcement alongside Euroferries bosses, said they were “thrilled” by the agreement.

Dr Stephen Ladyman, the MP for South Thanet, added: “Euroferries’ arrival could bring many jobs and plenty of tourism and provide a boost to the local economy.

“It’s always been my wish that we could secure a new service from Ramsgate that would guarantee the future of the port.

“The two ferry services that we now have, coupled with the offshore wind farm projects, should ensure this facility soon starts making money for local people.”

TransEuropa Ferries, previously the port’s only ferry operator, already runs several daily trips between Ramsgate and Ostend.’