WEYMOUTH BID's chief operations officer Claudia Webb has announced she is to leave the organisation after three years at the helm.

Ms Webb, 37, was previously a councillor for the Weymouth West ward before joining the BID in 2018, and has worked tirelessly to support local businesses through tough times and major transitions in Weymouth - the most recent example being the recovery from Covid-19.

She has actively promoted the BID's We Are Weymouth online marketing venture, and has been a driving force behind events such as the revival of annual Christmas festivities in the town.

Claudia spoke to the Echo shortly after announcing her departure and thanked her colleagues at the BID for their supports.

She said: "Every day has been different - I've met some amazing people and I'd like to thank them all for giving me a chance, and the BID team who have also been fantastic.

"My colleagues Helen and Kelly are amazing ladies, as well as people like Craig at the Chamber of Commerce who has been there to calm me down and give me the positivity to go forward."

Claudia revealed that she will be starting a new role as manager of Ingleside care home at Upwey - a decision which she has been carefully considering, but is an exciting new challenge.

She also hopes to start training as a Special Officer with Weymouth Police in the new year.

She added: "I remain optimistic that the people of Weymouth, a town I love, keep their faith in the BID and its capacity to both improve and market the town. I would urge everyone to get involved in some way and make a difference to our community."

To read the full interview see Friday's edition of the Dorset Echo.