A Wirral journalist is joining the team at BBC Radio Merseyside as the station's climate and environment reporter.

Ellis Palmer from Claughton will take on the job part-time alongside his work on the BBC World Service.

In his new role, the former St Joseph's (Upton), Woodchurch, and West Kirby Grammar student will "delve deep into communities on Merseyside and look at the problems they face and how people are coming together to resolve common challenges".

The 29-year-old - a former BBC Lancashire political reporter - has cerebral palsy and uses a handcycle as well as public transport to get around.

He said: "I'm very excited to be taking on this position at Radio Merseyside.

"I'm passionate about the Wirral and the broader Merseyside region as well as tackling climate change, so this role is perfect for me and my interests.

"It's been great to get started in this role - so far, I've looked at what those who attended the Taylor Swift gigs in Liverpool could do to lessen their impact on the environment and renter-friendly planting kits for Kev Duala's new-look Breakfast programme."

"I'm really keen to hear from communities across Merseyside about how they are doing their bit to tackle climate change and any ideas they have.

"At the BBC Merseyside office, I've already got my colleagues recycling their teabags and food waste into compost".