Darren Toogood - Editor
Darren started his career as a photojournalist at just 16 years of age, reporting across the Isle of Wight for regional, national and international media.
Driven by a passion for trusted local journalism, this true Caulkhead founded Island Echo in 2012 and has since grown it into a multi-award-winning publication. He is still the Editor and Publisher today.
Darren holds a Diploma with Honours in Media Law from the London School of Journalism.
DUO BAILED AS INVESTIGATIONS CONTINUE INTO EXPLOSIVE SUBSTANCE FIND
A 57-year-old man and a 14-year-old boy, who were both arrested on suspicion of possession of an explosive substance for unlawful purpose, have been bailed by Police. As first reported by Island Echo, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary was...
Read moreDetailsSECOND HOME OWNERS TO BE CHARGED DOUBLE COUNCIL TAX FROM 1ST APRIL
From 1st April 2025, any property on the Isle of Wight which is classed as a furnished second home will be charged a premium of 100% council tax - as the Council looks to crack down on those making money...
Read moreDetailsUKSA’S CHIEF EXECUTIVE BEN WILLOWS TO LEAVE THE CHARITY THIS SUMMER
After 9 years at the helm, Ben Willows will leave UKSA this Summer to take a new role with RS Marine Group. Ben started at UKSA as a teenager over 20 years ago, as a seasonal watersports instructor, and was...
Read moreDetailsSOFT2BET INVESTIGATION REPORT 2024: EXPANSION & INNOVATION IN IGAMING
Market Growth and Expansion The Soft2Bet Investigation Report 2024 reveals significant advancements in the company’s global reach, financial growth, and product innovation. With the latest Soft2Bet Investigation, the company highlights its doubled EBITDA, rising revenues, and expansion into key regulated...
Read moreDetailsBEST SPRING BREAK DESTINATIONS FOR AN UNFORTGETTABLE TRIP
Spring break is a perfect time to visit a new destination that can help you feel emotionally and mentally relaxed. These are exotic vacations from beautiful beaches, nightclubs to adventurous destinations around the world. Here are some remarkable, unforgettable spring break destinations...
Read moreDetailsTRAVEL DISRUPTION IN WOOTTON AS SGN TO CLOSE PARK ROAD FOR 7 WEEKS
Motorists face a further 7 weeks of disruption in the Wootton area as utility company SGN progress their gas works to Park Road, which will be shut in both directions until 9th May. It was in February 2023 that SGN...
Read moreDetailsNEW WEDDING AND EVENTS SPACE PROPOSED FOR BRADING’S NEW FARM
A new wedding and events facility could be heading to New Farm in Brading, as part of the continued diversification of the rural farm. Robert Oglander has applied to the Isle of Wight Council for planning and listed building consent...
Read moreDetails‘FIREARM’ SEIZED AND 3 PEOPLE ARRESTED BY ARMED POLICE IN VENTNOR
Armed Police were deployed to Ventnor when reports were received that a woman was in possession of a firearm yesterday afternoon (Tuesday). Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary received a call at 16:14 over fears that an individual was armed...
Read moreDetailsISLANDERS URGED TO ‘TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK’ THIS NO SMOKING DAY
Isle of Wight residents are being encouraged to take the first step towards a healthier, smokefree life this No Smoking Day - 12th March. The Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight is highlighting new research that on...
Read moreDetailsRAZORLIGHT AND MIDGE URE AMONG NEW ACTS ANNOUNCED FOR ISLE OF WIGHT FESTIVAL 2025
With 100 days to go until the gates open, a wave of new acts have been added to the line up for the 2025 Isle of Wight Festival - including Razorlight, Yard Act, English Teacher, Midge Ure and the UK’s...
Read moreDetails




















































































