WIGHTLINK'S new flagship vessel, Victoria of Wight, will be officially named when the Countess of Wessex visits the Island on Thursday.

Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, will carry out a number of engagements including a visit to 2017 Queen's Award winner Aspire, Ryde, to see the work it does in the community.

She will also visit Liz Earle Beauty Ltd before naming the new vessel at its Fishbourne terminal.

Lord Lt, Major General Martin White, said: "I am delight to welcome Her Royal Highness back to the Island, both to name Wightlink's Victoria of Wight and importantly to support vital aspects of our charitable and business sector.

Chairman of the Isle of Wight Council, Cllr Lora Peacey-Wilcox, added: "The Countess of Wessex will be warmly welcomed back to our Island. Her knowledge, interest and caring nature is very much appreciated."