Gurnard Primary Wins Schools Walk The Wight Fundraising Trophy

Gurnard Primary School has been crowned the winner of the 2026 Schools Walk the Wight Trophy after raising more than £4,400 for Mountbatten Isle of Wight.

The surprise announcement was made during a special school assembly on Tuesday by Mountbatten Isle of Wight events co-ordinator Olivia Lewis-Marlton and Lisa Butler, director of event sponsor Rouse Limited.

This year's Schools Walk the Wight was the biggest yet, with 1,495 children and young people taking part and more than £54,000 raised by schools across the Island.

Gurnard Primary topped the fundraising table after collecting an impressive £4,421.16.

Ahead of the annual Walk the Wight event in May, around 100 pupils completed much of the challenge by hopping, cycling, running and bouncing their way through the required distance.

They then joined friends, family and teachers to complete the final four miles from Freshwater Bay to Alum Bay.

Headteacher Clemma Yardley said the school was "absolutely thrilled" to receive the award.

She said:

"Walk the Wight is a legendary Island event, and seeing our families come together with such enthusiasm for Mountbatten Isle of Wight has been truly inspiring.

"This achievement isn't just about the miles walked; it's testament to our fantastic community spirit and our shared commitment to supporting an organisation that touches so many lives across the Isle of Wight.

"I want to say a massive thank you to everyone who laced up their walking boots, racked up the miles and donated."

Rouse Limited sponsored the Schools Walk the Wight for the third consecutive year.

Director Lisa Butler said Mountbatten was "a truly worthy cause" and congratulated Gurnard Primary on its fundraising success.

Olivia Lewis-Marlton added:

"It's been such a joy to visit Isle of Wight schools, share assemblies and cheer pupils across the finish line.

"We're incredibly proud of everyone who took part, helping to raise over £54,000 in vital funds for Mountbatten. We can't wait to see you all again in 2027.

"Congratulations, Gurnard Primary!"

Mountbatten Chief Executive Becky McGregor also praised everyone who took part, saying the money raised by schools across the Island will make a real difference to the charity and the people it supports.