Vectis Radio Isle Of Wight Community Awards Celebrate Local Heroes

The fourth Vectis Radio Isle of Wight Community Awards ceremony was held at Caffe Isola on Friday (27th March).

More than 90 people gathered at the Newport restaurant to see the awards presented by the High Sheriff, Jacqueline Gazzard.

Interval entertainment was provided by Huxley Magic, adding to the evening’s lively atmosphere.

Event organiser Maggie Currie said:

“This year’s awards were once again a fantastic success.

"The atmosphere was energetic and uplifting, and it was clear that everyone was enjoying themselves.

"It was truly humbling to see the level of support different organisations showed for one another.”

She added:

“I’m delighted with how successful the event has been in raising awareness of so many organisations — some of which were completely new to me.

"I’d also like to thank our panel of independent judges, who had the difficult job of selecting the winners, as well as Stef Burgess from Caffe Isola for sponsoring the event.”

The Award Winners Were:

Village Hero of the Year

Gold – Tim Gibbs – Yarmouth Pharmacy

Silver – Lesley Wheeler – Vectis Wombles

Bronze – Rodney “Worzel” Walmsley – Entertainer

Volunteer of the Year

Gold – John Steele – Stenbury Hall, Wroxall Community Association

Silver – Janet & John Strickland – Supporting Older People

Bronze – Mark Wheeler – IW Cat Centre

Fundraiser of the Year

Gold – Peter May – To Be In Her Shoes

Silver – Sally Faulkner – Community Spirited Cafe

Bronze – Stephanie Jeffery – Sandown Family Events

Sports Coach/Leader of the Year

Gold – Colin Jackson – Man vs Fat Football

Silver – Kay Howard – Vocal Coach

Bronze – Mark Powell – Brading Town FC

Community Project of the Year

Gold – Mindset Bros

Silver – Baby Box

Bronze – East Cowes Carnival

Island School/Club Achievement of the Year

Gold – Creationz Dance Academy, East Cowes

Silver – Dance-Vibz, Sandown

Young Person of the Year

Gold – Thomas Young – Vectis Corps of Drums

Silver – Harry Day – Community Spirited Cafe

Bronze – Darcy Weedall – Sandown Canoe Lake

Good Neighbour of the Year

Gold – Cheryl Burtwell

Silver – Kathy Barter

Judges’ Choice Award

Double Portion Church – Newport

Vectis Radio Community Personality Award

Michele Newton – Daisy Ring Bus

Overall Community Champion (Voted For By The Public)

Mindset Bros

Mindset Bros founder Ross Taylor spoke after the awards, expressing both humility and pride:

“Winning these awards is an incredible honour, but for me, it’s about so much more than that.

"Sitting around that table with the team, seeing the passion, the unity, and the emotion— that’s what it’s all about.

"I feel incredibly humbled and proud of what we’ve built together. This is for every single person who has been part of the journey.”

The awards recognise the ongoing impact Mindset Bros has within the community, while also highlighting the importance of connection, support, and looking out for one another.

As the organisation continues to grow, moments like this reinforce its core purpose —building a strong, supportive community where no one has to face challenges alone.

Vectis Radio Station Manager and co-host for the evening, Ian Mac, said:

“Once again, I felt truly humbled to be among so many people who dedicate themselves tirelessly to supporting our Island community.

"It’s so important that we continue to recognise and support their efforts all year round — without them, the Island simply wouldn’t function.”

He added:

“I’d also like to extend my sincere thanks to our headline sponsors this year, Caffe Isola.

"Their incredible support made it possible for us to host such a fantastic evening.”