Boxers, swimmers, gymnasts and farmers among latest groups on Wightlink sponsorship scheme

Wightlink has welcomed four new groups onto its community sponsorship scheme next year, helping to ferry members to and from their activities.

Ryde Boxing Club, Ryde Swimming Club, Wightgymnasts (Xcel) and the Isle of Wight Young Farmers Club join dozens of sporting, arts and community groups from the Island already on the scheme.

It all started back in 1987 when Ryde Rowing Club became one of the first groups to benefit from supported travel from Wightlink.

Marc Sayers, chair and head coach at Ryde Boxing Club, said: “Travelling to the mainland is very important for our young members as it improves their confidence and helps them to develop as young people.

“Sponsorship from Wightlink will massively help the club – which is run entirely by volunteers – allowing us to travel more frequently while keeping costs down, with our funds being put towards kit for young members who may need it.”

Hannah from Wightgymnasts (Xcel) said: “Our small group of gymnasts has been offered the fantastic opportunity to be part of the Women’s artistic competitive squad at the Xcel Gymnastics club in Horndean near Portsmouth.

“Support from Wightlink will make travel much easier for us and allow our young gymnasts to fully focus on training and competitions along a regional and national pathway.

“It’s particularly important for one of our young members who competes in disability gymnastics and is hoping to represent Great Britain in the Paralympics in the future.

“Thank you Wightlink!”

Sian Grove of Isle of Wight Young Farmers Club said the sponsorship meant its members would be able to attend young farmers events on the mainland.

And Jacob Jenner from Ryde Swimming Club added: “Our members regularly compete across the South Coast and South East region, which helps to inspire our junior swimmers who are working towards reaching county and regional level.”

Katy Taylor, chief executive of Wightlink, said: “Since joining Wightlink, I’ve enjoyed learning how we support local groups and provide opportunities for Islanders to further their talents.

“We’re delighted to extend our sponsorship to four more clubs this year and wish them well in 2025.”

As well as sponsoring 38 sporting teams and groups, Wightlink will support 77 individual sportsmen and women next year via the Isle of Wight Council talented athlete scheme.

Wightlink provides assisted travel for athletes to the mainland for competitions, training and events.