THE Echo is set to bolster its team of sports reporters with a new signing.

Solent University student Tom Wallace is joining the newsroom in Ocean Village in his industry placement year.

Tom, who is studying for an undergraduate degree in Sports Journalism, will be learning from Alfie House and George Rees-Julian during the 23/24 campaign.

Tom said: "I am delighted to be joining the Daily Echo team, on what promises to be an exciting year down at St Mary's.

"With the new brand of football that boss Russell Martin has brought to the club, the mood has quickly turned around and the future is looking much more positive for the Saints, despite the recent relegation from the Premier League."

Tom said he is hoping for more "thrilling matches" and is looking forward to covering Saints men and women, along with Eastleigh's campaign and Hampshire cricket.

Editor Ben Fishwick said: "Tom will be working alongside Alfie and George reporting on Southampton FC.

"I'm pleased the Echo is continuing to play its part in helping to train the next generation of journalists - this is on top of hosting work experience students each week in the newsroom."