THE West Wight has a new community connector.

Adam Tucker, formerly the local area coordinator (LAC) for the West Wight, has been appoint as the new community connector.

Freshwater Parish Council (FPC) and the Isle of Wight Council have jointly funded the new role, following the closure of the LAC service in March.

West Wight Sports and Community Centre (WWSCC) has also been involved, contracted as the employer of the one-year funded position.

Gill Kennett, of FPC and WWSCC, said: "Adam has made a huge difference to the lives of people in our community in the last three years.

"He has supported people of all ages, helping tackle social isolation, issues with benefits, debt and housing — we are fortunate he has agreed to take on the new role."

Mel Gardiner, West Wight Just Ask officer, will work closely with Adam, attending community groups for feedback, including the Our Place community cafe.

Adam said: "My role is to support the community to become better connected, finding ways to improve their lives, which may include overcoming loneliness or low self-esteem."

The cafe opens Tuesdays from 10.30am, for local residents to drop-in and give feedback to Adam and Mel, or seek advice from agencies such as Citizens Advice.