Wightlink Continues Support For Island Groups After Backing Over 14,000 Trips Last Year

Wightlink has confirmed the organisations it will support through its Wightlink In The Community programme in 2026, continuing a long-running initiative that has helped Island groups and individuals for almost 40 years.

The ferry operator says it provided more than 14,000 cross-Solent journeys to sponsored groups last year, allowing teams and individuals to travel to the mainland for competitions, performances, events and development opportunities.

A similar level of support is planned for 2026.

Since launching in 1987, the Wightlink In The Community programme has expanded to support a wide range of sporting, arts, environmental and charitable organisations across the Isle of Wight.

This year, Wightlink will support 20 sporting teams, 10 arts organisations and five environmental groups, alongside renewed partnerships with 10 local charities.

Additional ad-hoc support will also continue throughout the year for community initiatives.

As well as group sponsorship, Wightlink is supporting 82 individual athletes in 2026 through the Isle of Wight Council’s Talented Athlete scheme.

The programme helps gifted sportspeople access essential cross-Solent travel for training, competitions and development opportunities that might otherwise be difficult to reach.

Several Wightlink-backed teams enjoyed notable success over the past year.

Sporting Opportunities Isle of Wight won medals across bowls, athletics and football, with its footballers lifting a trophy at their first-ever competitive fixture in May.

Deborah Percy from Sporting Opportunities Isle of Wight said Wightlink’s backing had a major impact on its members.

“Being able to travel to the mainland opens opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach, not just to compete but to build confidence, independence and a real sense of belonging,” she said.

“We’re incredibly grateful to Wightlink for helping our athletes feel valued and proud to represent the Isle of Wight.”

The Wightlink Cycle Race Team also recorded a number of achievements, including seven-year-old Finley Manser-Grundy being crowned 2025 Go-Ride Downhill Series Champion.

Meanwhile, Wight Eagles Academy FC secured league titles for both its Under-13 and Under-15 teams.

Wightlink’s Partnerships Marketing Manager, Sam Woodman, said the company remained committed to supporting Island communities.

“Since 1987, Wightlink has been proud to support Island communities, with a strong focus on helping young people access opportunities beyond the Solent,” he said.

“Through Wightlink In The Community, we’re delighted to continue supporting the next generation of Island talent in 2026.”