Latest News

HM Coastguard is keeping tight-lipped over major plans to reform the fourth emergency service, including introducing full-time Coastguards into rescue teams across the country. Island Echo understands that up to 600 new full-time staff are to be recruited nationwide to complement...

The RMT union has confirmed it is now in dispute with cross-Solent ferry operator Wightlink after the company announced restructuring plans that could see up to 160 jobs at risk. As previously reported by Island Echo, Wightlink has told staff...

Isle of Wight Green Party councillors and Alliance Group Leader Phil Jordan have condemned a council decision to reject submitting a business case that would have protected the Isle of Wight’s status as an independent unitary authority. As previously reported...

Lifestyle site Muddy Stilettos has announced the winners of its Best Places to Live series – with the Isle of Wight winning locally for the first time. The website asked its readers to vote for the best local village, town...

A proposal to paint the front of a Freshwater antique shop with a hand-painted mural has been approved. Planners have accepted Luke Stagg’s advertising application to paint Odds & Sods on Freshwater’s Afton Road with a ‘seaside and vintage theme’,...

Joe Robertson MP has called on the new Minister for Local Government, Alison McGovern, to respect the Isle of Wight’s unique status and listen to Islanders in the upcoming Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). The Isle of Wight East MP has...

A 10-room bed and breakfast in Brading could be transformed into a large family home amid ‘higher energy costs’ and a rising cost of living. Ms K. Di Nallo, who is seeking to purchase the property, has proposed a change...

A proposal setting out a root and branch overhaul of local government across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight was rejected by County Hall last night (Wednesday). Full council voted against a landmark vision for local government reorganisation (LGR) put...

A Dogue de Bordeaux could face destruction after its owner was sentenced for an attack that left a care worker with life-changing facial injuries in Freshwater. Jason Turner, 52, of Lugley Street in Newport, appeared before the Isle of Wight...

Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones has joined Joe Robertson MP's calls for a future Mayor to have powers over cross-Solent transport. As part of the Local Government restructuring, the proposed Mayor of the Hampshire and Solent Combined Authority would...