CLASSIC cars, birthday celebrations and festival fun are all on offer on the Isle of Wight this weekend.
The annual Classic Car Extravaganza is back for another year, with 2017 set to be their busiest year yet.
Hosted at Newport Quay today (Saturday) and Ryde Esplanade tomorrow (Sunday), it is your chance to see 700 classic and custom cars from all over the country. Whether you're a car fanatic, fancy a glimpse from the past or simply think the cars look cool, with free entry and the event supporting Island charities Isle of Wight Round Table and Earl Mountbatten Hospice, the Extravaganza is a fantastic option for the whole family.
Come down and celebrate two very special Island birthdays in the magical setting of Chine this evening (Saturday).
Shanklin Chine's 200th birthday coincides with the Earl Mountbatten Hospice's 35th anniversary, so the two have paired up to host the event 'Magic in the Chine.'
There will be live music from the Hospice's Community Choir and other guests from 5pm, and tickets will be available at the gate.
Waverley Park's Beer, Music, and Poetry Festival kicked off yesterday (Friday) in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. With music from Island acts – including the Damien Paul Band and Juke Box Jazz – on show all weekend, comedy from the Cowes Speak team, and plenty of beer to go around, this display of local talent is not to be missed.
The first ever Relay for Life takes place this weekend at Smallbrook Stadium in Ryde. The 24 hour, 80s fancy dress themed fundraiser will see team members take turns to walk around the track to show cancer never sleeps. The event starts today (Saturday), has free entry, and all proceeds will go to Southampton General Hospital's oncology department and scientists.
Today (Saturday) is your last chance to take a weekend round-the-Island cruise on a historic paddle steamer. Get fantastic Island views from the water whilst eating, drinking, and relaxing in the iconic Waverley's Caledonia Tea Room or on the sun-kissed promenade deck. Sailings set off from Yarmouth pier and tickets are available online.
A day of family fun is on offer at the Donkey Sanctuary tomorrow (Sunday) with free entry to A Day at the Races! Enjoy the food and entertainment zone, peruse the selection of local crafts, curb your competitive streak with an Island Hobby Horse Championship and farm races, and of course, visit the Island's oldest pets.
More two-wheel enthusiasts than ever before will descend on Arreton Barnes Craft Village tomorrow (Sunday) for the annual Motorcycle Show. Over 800 motorcycles of all makes, marques, and sizes are expected to be on display to raise funds for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, with a chance to win prizes, have refreshments and even test a bike! The show has free entry for all and runs from 10am to 4pm.


By Imogen Tew