A NEW role is being funded in support of Bournemouth’s night-time economy.

Bournemouth Town Centre BID and Bournemouth Town Watch are funding a new night-time economy co-ordinator.

Victoria Sheppard stepped into the new role last month and will be taking the lead in synchronising efforts towards delivering a safe, successful and well-managed night-time economy in Bournemouth town centre.

A similar role within BCP Council ceased to exist as part of a BCP wide re-organisation last year.

Victoria brings two decades’ experience in the sector, including 15 years’ involvement in Bournemouth Town Centre’s Town Watch.

Alan Dove, chair of Bournemouth Town Watch, said: “I know Victoria well, having worked alongside her for many years in the Town Watch, so I know she is going to do a fantastic and impactful job.

“We’ve been missing that lynchpin person, so we are incredibly pleased to be working with the Town Centre BID to fund this role.”

Victoria’s new role, across two-and-half-days a week, will see her liaising with nightlife businesses such as bars, pubs, nightclubs and late opening restaurants and food outlets, supporting collaboration with key stakeholders such as Dorset Police and BCP Council, helping to identify and tackle any issues and seize opportunities, and providing strategic oversight.

Paul Kinvig, chief operating officer of Bournemouth Town Centre BID, said: “We want to see a thriving town centre for Bournemouth, and a vibrant and secure night-time economy is key to that mission.

“We are thrilled to have been able to appoint Victoria into this role. She is incredibly passionate and knowledgeable, having dedicated her career to Bournemouth’s night-time economy, as well as dynamic and driven - a huge asset to the team.”

Victoria added: “Bournemouth’s night-time sector is a vital engine for the local economy and a big draw to the area, so I am incredibly excited to take on this role and support its ongoing success.

“My focus will be on bringing people together, driving action and collaboration and enhancing the national reputation of Bournemouth’s night-time economy too, so locals and visitors alike can enjoy all that is on offer in Bournemouth in the evening and into the early hours.”