Fareham workers now have someone to call on for advice and a listening ear following a ceremony to induct the town centre's first ever chaplain.

June Haye was chosen by members of Churches Together in Fareham and was officially welcomed to the role during a special service at the Podium in West Street attended by hundreds of residents and employees.

She said: "I will be offering support to people in the workplace - listening and taking their needs seriously.

"It's a free service for those who provide a service to others, both staff and managers alike."

June was introduced by the Rev Langford Vincent, deacon of the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Fareham, who said he hoped the town centre chaplain will benefit all those who work in Fareham.

All the leaders of the Fareham Churches took part in the ceremony, as well as the Mayor and Mayoress of Fareham, Councillor David and June Swanbrow, and town centre bosses.

Pam Gillard, Fareham Shopping Centre manager, said: "I am delighted that June will be able to counsel and care for those in the retail sector of the town.

"It doesn't matter whether they are working in the shopping centre, the High Street, or West Street, we now have someone we can call on."

The chaplain is available for anyone who works in Fareham - for people of any religious belief or none.

There is a quiet room in the shopping centre where confidential discussions can take place. The ceremony followed a Good Friday 'walk of witness' around Fareham.