An archaeologist is ready to lay down the groundwork for Hampshire’s future after being confirmed as the Green Party’s mayoral candidate for the county.

Dr Anna Collar has called for investment in communities and protection for the natural world in launching her bid to become Mayor of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

The married mother of three school-age children is an Associate Professor at the University of Southampton who lives in Lyndhurst.

She also contested the New Forest West seat in last year’s General Election, and believes many people are looking for a “new alternative” amid a huge shake-up in local government.

She added: “The Green Party offers a fairer future built with hope and community at its heart.”