Councillors, parishioners and volunteers have secured funds to continue the Warm Spaces project.

Christ Church in Sandown, Age Concern in Shanklin, and Lake Methodist Church, are among the organisations supported by the project which was co-ordinated by volunteer Heather Whitchurch.

Shanklin Mayor Robert May and Sandown Mayor Cllr Alex Lightfoot both attended a recent presentation to lend support.

Ms Whitchurch said: "We are very aware of the financial pressures being faced by families at this time of year, with energy and food costs increasing, and we wanted to do something to help respond to the local need."

Cllr Lightfoot said: "We are working with partners in Lake and Shanklin to sustain a support network, as well as make sure there is a warm space in each town in the Bay.

"Councils in the Bay, with local groups and organisations, are building closer working relationships, such as youth and economic regeneration, and these much needed projects are an example of such a partnership approach."

Cllr May said: "Voluntary groups have always been at the heart of local communities, and this initiative highlights the value and strength of working together for the benefit of those that need help."