A fundraising appeal has been launched to buy a new camera for a 72-year-old photographer whose pictures have captured years of Island sporting action.
Katharine Overton, from Wootton, is a familiar face at Isle of Wight Rugby Club, where she regularly photographs the Rangers in action. Her pictures have become a regular feature of Island Echo’s rugby coverage, helping us bring local matches to readers who cannot attend in person.
Her daughter Lindsay has launched a GoFundMe appeal to raise £1,000 towards a brand-new camera for her mother, who continues to pursue her passion for photography despite living with a disability. At the time of checking, £250 had been raised towards the target.
Katharine spends hours photographing matches at the Ranger’s home ground – Wootton Rec – before editing and sharing her pictures with players, supporters and the wider community, without ever asking for anything in return.
She previously photographed matches for High Park and Wootton FC, both of which have since disbanded. Her pictures regularly appeared in Island Echo, capturing the players and personalities of 2 clubs that are no longer part of the Island football scene.
Away from sport, Katharine enjoys photographing Cowes Week, local events and Island wildlife, generously sharing her pictures with the community.
Explaining why she launched the appeal, Lindsay said:
“My mum has spent so much time sharing her passion with others and giving something back to our local community in Wootton. She has never asked for anything in return. She simply does it because she loves it.”
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She added:
“It might seem like just a camera to some people, but to my mum, it would mean so much more. It would mean being able to continue doing what she loves, capturing memories, supporting her local community and sharing the beautiful moments she sees through her lens.”
Isle of Wight RFC has backed the fundraiser, calling on players, supporters and the wider Island community to recognise Katharine’s dedication.
The club said:
“Week in, week out, Katharine gives up hours of her own time to photograph our home games, before spending even more time editing and sharing those fantastic shots with us all.”
The club is also working towards making its clubhouse wheelchair accessible, allowing Katharine to join players and supporters inside rather than having to remain on the sidelines.
Urging people to support the appeal, the Rangers added:
“If you’ve ever saved, shared or enjoyed one of Katharine’s fantastic match day photos, now’s your chance to show her a little love!”
The club concluded:
“You are a huge part of our Rangers family, and we appreciate you more than you know.”
With £250 already raised towards the £1,000 target, Katharine’s dream of owning a new camera is a step closer to becoming reality.
Anyone wishing to thank Katharine for her years of dedication to Island sport can donate to Lindsay’s GoFundMe appeal or help by sharing the fundraiser.
