An Isle of Wight charity has received an electric-powered beach buggy to boost safety on the coast, following a grant from ferry company Wightlink.

Waterside Community Trust received £7,500 from Wightlink's Green Innovation Fund, enabling the purchase of the eco-friendly all-terrain vehicle.

Alongside running Ryde seafront’s Waterside Pool, the charity offers a lifeguard service and drowning-prevention scheme.

The Trust's general manager, Todd Miller, said: "Our new buggy will transform our operations.

"Our lifeguards will use it to tow our beach wheelchairs, an inshore rescue boat and other equipment, perform patrols and much more in both Ryde and Sandown, while helping us to reduce our carbon emissions and look after the amazing Island we live on."

The newly acquired vehicle will allow efficient response to emergencies, transport beach equipment and contribute to carbon footprint reduction.

Additionally, the trust is installing solar panels and a heat exchange unit to reduce fuel expenses.

Wightlink commercial director Phil Delaney said: "We are delighted our grant will assist the Waterside Community Trust to help everyone to stay safe and enjoy spending time on the water."