Front, from left, Derek Chartres, Carole Jewett, Andrew Turner, MP, Cllr Arthur Taylor, Roy Barton and Frederick Taylor, with Peter Chartres and Gill Rogers behind.
A HUNDRED years on, the commercial heart of the Island is still beating strong.
That was the message given to members and guests at the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry’s centenary lunch.
John Owen, chamber chairman, welcomed guests and delivered the message that even in challenging times, Island business was doing well, while Steve Porter, president, and Kevin Smith, chief executive, honoured some of the better-known Island firms with a series of awards.
The chamber has started a range of membership categories, based on time served in the body, and the gold, platinum and founder members were presented with certificates at the lunch, held at Albert Cottage, East Cowes.
Members enjoyed a cake baked to mark the centenary and were told of some of the history of the chamber.
Awards: Gold — Morey’s, Dabells Furnishings, Minghella Ice Cream, Southern Vectis, GKN and Eldridge Solicitors. Platinum — Bright Brown. Founders — Lord Lieutenancy, Isle of Wight County Press, Harrison Black, Ryde Town Council, the IIsle of Wight Council, Isle of Wight MP and Newport Parish Council.
• More pictures in Friday, March 12, County Press.