THERE will be a new figure at the helm of Red Funnel from January 1.

Tom Docherty takes over from managing director Alistair Whyte, who becomes deputy chairman, of the company that runs ferry services between Southampton and the Isle of Wight.

Tom, who is currently deputy managing director, has been responsible for the company's recent expansion programme.

That saw the "stretching" of Red Osprey and Red Falcon to increase passenger numbers. Red Eagle is due for similar work next month.

Tom was also involved in the preparation and execution of a multi-million pound management buyout earlier this year. Alistair said: "Tom has been a huge asset to Red Funnel over the years, successfully overseeing key projects that have allowed us to increase capacity on the Southampton to Cowes route.