Isle of Wright News
News
The Isle of Wight celebrates the 200th anniversary of Queen Victoria's birth with a grand festival at Osborne House, featuring Victorian-era reenactments and a royal-themed parade. Meanwhile, ferry operators warn of potential summer disruptions as staffing shortages continue to affect cross-Solent services.
Business News
The Island's marine technology sector surges as Wight Shipyard Co. secures a £30 million contract to build hybrid ferries for European markets. Local gin distillery Isle of Wight Distillery reports record sales of its Mermaid Gin, with exports growing by 40% year-on-year.
Economic News
The Isle of Wight economy grows by 3.2% in Q2 2025, outperforming the South East average, driven by tourism and advanced marine industries. Concerns remain about rising holiday rental prices, with local councils proposing new regulations to protect affordable housing.
Political News
Controversy surrounds plans for a floating bridge replacement across the Medina, with residents divided over costs and design. The Island's MP faces criticism over delayed improvements to the Island Line rail service, now running at reduced capacity.
Election News
The Isle of Wight constituency becomes a key battleground, with Conservative, Green and Liberal Democrat candidates campaigning hard on ferry reliability, NHS services and renewable energy. Independent candidates gain traction with localist policies.
Employment News
Unemployment drops to 2.9%, the lowest in a decade, with particular growth in hospitality and marine engineering. The new Wight Skills Academy opens in Newport, offering training in sustainable tourism and offshore wind maintenance.
Business News
Island-based companies show strong performance with GKN Aerospace (Isle of Wight) shares rising 7% after securing new aviation contracts. Red Funnel Ferries bonds reach record highs amid increased summer bookings.
Forecast
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Monday: Sunny, 22°C
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Tuesday: Cloudy, 20°C
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Wednesday: Light rain, 18°C
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Thursday: Showers, 19°C
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Friday: Sunny intervals, 21°C
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Saturday: Partly cloudy, 22°C
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Sunday: Thunderstorms, 20°C
Entertainment News
The Isle of Wight Festival announces its 2025 rs, with Coldplay and Dua Lipa set to perform at Seaclose Park. Ventnor's Fringe Festival kicks off with open-air theatre productions across the seaside town.
Upcoming Events
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June 28: Queen Victoria Bicentennial Gala at Osborne House
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June 20: Round the Island Race (world-famous yacht race)
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June 21: Summer Solstice at The Needles
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June 22: Isle of Wight Jazz Festival
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June 24: Garlic Festival Preview in Newchurch
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June 26: Cowes Classic Car Rally
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June 28: Bestival Reunion Concert
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June 29: Wight Walk (coastal marathon challenge)
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July 1: Sandown Carnival Week begins
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July 3: Shanklin Theatre Summer Season Opening Night
Stay tuned for more updates from England's "Diamond Isle", where seaside charm meets cutting-edge innovation!
Transport Update: The new Island Hopper bus service launches this week, offering unlimited travel for £10/day across the Island's network.
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