Hampshire Constabulary is a step closer to being renamed - to include the Isle of Wight.

The two counties' police and crime commissioner (PCC) launched the latest bid to change the police force's name last year, shortly after her election.

A letter from the Minister of State for Crime, Policing and Probation, Kit Malthouse, has now confirmed it is possible and the process moves to the next stage - to get approval from Parliament.

Mr Malthouse wrote: "I have instructed officials to take steps to bring forward legislation, to change the name of the Hampshire police area to include the Isle of Wight."

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Changes to police uniforms, cars and buildings will be phased in, as equipment is updated, but legal documents will be amended as soon as it is formally approved.

Donna Jones, PCC, said: "I received strong support from residents to include the words 'Isle of Wight’ in the name of Hampshire Constabulary.

"People on the Isle of Wight [told me] they feel disconnected from the mainland."

Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely said: “I am delighted the name change is being taken forward to recognise that the force covers both Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

"It is important that the Island receives its fair share of support and is not overlooked."

Hampshire Constabulary's chief constable Olivia Pinkney said: "It is welcome that the people of the Isle of Wight have been able to have their say, that their views have been listened to and that there is a clear commitment to avoid any unnecessary public cost."

When it will happen depends on the availability of parliamentary time, though it is likely to be complete by Summer 2022 (subject to approval), said the PCC.

The merger of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service kept the importance of the Island's identity in the public eye, last year.