Duke Of Edinburgh Visits Isle Of Wight To Celebrate Creative Community

(c) Sam Cattee/Creative Island

HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh has visited the Isle of Wight to explore the Island’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.

The visit began in Newport at Quay Arts, where The Duke met with a range of local creative organisations and artists, including those based at the nearby Jubilee Stores studios.

During his time there, His Royal Highness also visited the Anthony Minghella Theatre to learn more about the “Can You Hear Us?” programme — a community-led initiative supporting creative projects across the Island.

The scheme, delivered in partnership with Creative Lives, provides micro-grants to support activities such as music, storytelling, craft workshops and performance, helping to connect communities and celebrate local identity.

The Duke spoke with representatives from several groups involved in the programme, including young people, community organisations and those working within the prison system, highlighting the wide reach of creative projects on the Island.

In the afternoon, the visit continued in Ventnor, where he met with local groups at community venues supporting music and film, before travelling to Brading Roman Villa.

The visit concluded with a presentation of the King’s Award for Voluntary Service at Brading Village Hall, recognising the contribution of volunteers within the local community.