The 2023 Spring Isle of Wight Walking Festival got underway at the weekend with a real spring in its step after winning an award on Friday evening.

The Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce awards on Friday, hosted by Shaparak Khorsandi, saw businesses recognised for their hard work and excellence over the past 12 months.

The Isle of Wight Walking Festival, organised by Visit Isle of Wight, was awarded the ‘Made on the Isle of Wight’ title, sponsored by Red Funnel.

The popular festival was saved in 2017 following an 11th hour injection of support from Visit Isle of Wight and has now extended to two festivals per year, running in spring & autumn and covering the ‘shoulder’ seasons, attracting visitors in what would be considered less busy times for the tourism industry on the Island.

From May 13-21 the Isle of Wight Walking Festival has over 60 walks on offer, led by volunteers who are proud of their Island and take the opportunity to share their particular passion on a themed walk.

Will Myles, MD at Visit Isle of Wight, congratulated everyone involved in the Walking Festival:

‘To win the Chamber of Commerce ‘Made on the Isle of Wight’ award is a fantastic reflection of the teamwork involved in pulling the Walking Festival together. Our Sustainable, Trade & Exhibitions manager Amy Summers, with festival co-ordinators Jo Hurt and Sarah Alexander, work hard to make the event happen, liaising with the volunteer walk leaders from groups such as the Ramblers to individuals who are passionate about the Island they live on, and without whom, the event would not happen.

‘I also want to thank the Wight BID levy payers; the event is funded by Visit Isle of Wight and supported by the Island’s tourism sector and is recognised as bringing a direct benefit to businesses during the shoulder season, whilst serving as a fantastic advert for the Isle of Wight along with the multiple health benefits of walking.’ With a just a few places available to join walks during the Isle of Wight Walking Festival, head to the website to book your walk: https://isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk/

image l-r – Sarah Alexander, Will Myles, Jo Hurt and award sponsor Red Funnel represented by Graham Barnetson