ISLANDERS could be hopping between Herm and Sark next year. Trident Charter has applied to operate a ferry service between Guernsey and the two islands.

‘We want to try to link Herm and Sark so people can visit both islands on the same day,’ said managing director Peter Wilcox.

‘My aim is to encourage local people to visit Sark because they’re finding the current price structure so expensive.

‘One would like to think that local people and visitors alike will welcome our planned fares.’

Trident wants to run a year-round passenger and cargo operation.

But Isle of Sark Shipping, currently managing the sole ferry service between Sark and Guernsey, was worried there would not be enough passengers for two operators.

‘My main concern is that the service offered by Isle of Sark in the winter months depends on the profits made in the summer,’ said managing director Max Carling.

‘If the profits are going to be eroded, there is a real question mark over continuity in the winter months.’

He thought Sark’s population would have to triple or quadruple to make both services viable.

Advocate Gordon Dawes, acting for Trident, said an application had been made in December with the intention of having the route in place this year.

But delays have meant a decision will not be taken until after the summer months.

Lt-Governor Sir Fabian Malbon,

who has jurisdiction over all three islands, has ordered an independent inquiry.

He has appointed Dr Jonathan Spencer – a former director-general of the UK Department of Constitutional Affairs – to conduct the review.

Hearings will take place in the last week of September, with a decision expected in the autumn.