THE 'BIGGEST and most colourful parade the Island has ever seen’ is set to form one of the key events of the second Isle of Wight Day in September.
The Island’s High Sheriff, Robin Courage, declared his hopes for the 'people’s parade’ due to be held in Ryde at a launch event for the Isle of Wight’s special celebratory day which was held at Barton Manor, Whippingham, today (Tuesday).
Bestival curator, Rob da Bank, has also thrown his support behind the day and will be helping to create an 'Island’s Got Talent’ event with regional heats and a final on Isle of Wight Day itself on September 23.
Organisers are also creating an 'Isle of Wight Day Fund’ with cash raised going to Island causes.
Mr Courage, who dreamed-up the idea of Isle of Wight Day last year, said: "We want to make Isle of Wight Day the Island’s very own Red Nose Day. We are creating an Isle of Wight Day Fund which will distribute money raised on the day to deserving Island causes and will hopefully encourage everyone to raise money from the hundreds of activities being planned to celebrate the day."
Planning has already begun to hold a parade on the sea following on from last year’s successful Yachting Relay. Island churches are also getting together to repeat their Songs of Praise concert.
• For the full story, please see this Friday’s County Press.