PRINCE Edward has visited Ventnor for what is believed to have been his first-ever trip to the town — focusing on organisations that put the arts at the heart of their work.
The Duke of Edinburgh was on the Isle of Wight this afternoon (Thursday), as part of a visit that included at least five venues as part of a packed itinerary.
After starting his day at Quay Arts in Newport, the Duke travelled south to Ventnor Exchange, where he met the team behind one of the Island’s flagship arts events, Ventnor Fringe.
He spoke with and listened intently to staff and volunteers about several projects run by the Exchange.
Prince Edward learns more about the projects run by Ventnor Exchange (Image: County Press)
They include the Brave Island youth programme for 14 to 25-year-olds, the proposed Ingram’s Yard building project, and new touring arts venue, The Big Top.
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During the visit, the Duke was treated to a performance by the Ventnor Exchange Choir, who sang Lean on Me by Bill Withers and Only You by Yazoo.
Afterwards, Prince Edward applauded the group and said: “Fantastic. Well done!”
Jack Whitewood, who runs Ventnor Exchange, said: “It’s always nice for people in positions of power to recognise what’s happening on the ground, especially in small places like Ventnor.
“It was a fairly brief visit, but it was good for him to come down and see what we do.”
Ventnor Exchange has recently received funding from the Royal Countryside Fund, supported by King Charles, to help young people remain in rural areas.
Prince Edward chats with members of Ventnor Arts Club (Image: County Press)
Prince Edward learns more about the projects run by Ventnor Exchange from Jack Whitewood (Image: County Press)
“Ventnor is the only town on the Island losing population,” Jack explained.
“The grant will help create more training opportunities so more young people can stay.”
Accompanied by Isle of Wight Lord Lieutenant Susie Sheldon, the Duke then made his way through the town to Ventnor Arts Club, drawing pleasantly surprised looks from shoppers — including from a large bus queue.
At the club, founded 13 years ago, the prince met members of its 150-strong membership, including founder Stephen Izatt and manager Wendy Barton — discussing the club’s wide-ranging programme of anything from live theatre and film screenings, to world music performances and stand up comedy.
When shown the unique club bar housed in the former NatWest building’s strong room, the Duke said: “This is brilliant. Marvellous.”
Leaving the club, Prince Edward waved to shoppers, before heading to Brading Roman Villa for lunch, followed by a final visit to Brading Youth and Community Centre.
More to follow.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source uk.news.yahoo.com ’
