A local news website has launched a new family announcement page for readers.

The Island Echo has announced the launch of the page covering births, marriages and deaths across the Isle of Wight.

Readers will be charged a one-off fee of £6 to place an announcement on the site.

Announcing the feature, editor and publisher Darren Toogood said it was “the right time to bring a traditional print feature into the online era”.

A screenshot of the Echo’s family announcements page

In a message to readers, he said: “We’ve heard from so many people that placing a family announcement can be tricky and expensive, so with that in mind we have created a system that is not only straightforward but honest and upfront with its pricing – for £6 your announcement includes a photograph and as much content as you wish.

“It also appears online within just 24 hours, without the need to wait until Friday.

“The key principle of an announcement is that people take notice.

“We have now been established 10 years and have a huge following, so feel the time is right to launch this service as we have confidence that your message will be seen – whether than be a birth, marriage or death.”