A container ship has had to be towed back to the US, causing several days of delays to shipments.

The Bermuda Islander is thought to have encountered mechanical problems shortly after departing New Jersey last Tuesday.

The 2,937 gross tonne, 100 metre-long vessel has a crew of ten and was due to arrive on the Island on Thursday.

A spokesman for Bermuda Maritime Operations said: "They left on the 10th but on the 11th reported that they were to be brought back to the US under tow. They are going to be taken to Florida and the cargo then transferred to another vessel."

Agents Meyer Shipping were unavailable for comment yesterday.