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.
ALDI’S SOLAR PANEL PLAN FOR COWES APPROVED WITH LAKE STORE NEXT
Aldi in Cowes will have 272 rooftop solar panels installed following approval by the Isle of Wight Council, with the supermarket now eyeing up similar for its second Isle of Wight store in Lake. Aldi’s prior approval application for the...
Read moreDetailsCASH FLOW DIFFICULTIES BLAMED FOR COLLAPSE OF GLAZING THE ISLAND – 17 STAFF MADE REDUNDANT
Cash flow difficulties and the COVID pandemic have been blamed for the collapse of Glazing the Island, which has entered liquidation with the loss of 17 jobs. Earlier this week it was revealed by Island Echo that liquidators Quantuma had...
Read moreDetailsSANDOWN CARE HOME IN SPECIAL MEASURES AFTER WHISTLEBLOWER FLAGS CONCERNS
Autumn House Residential Home in Sandown has been rated inadequate by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and placed in special measures to protect residents. Concerns were raised with the CQC last year regarding the safety and quality of care in...
Read moreDetailsBLOOD TESTING DEPARTMENT ON THE MOVE AT ST MARY’S HOSPITAL
The Blood Testing Department at St Mary's Hospital will be relocated to the new Outpatients and Diagnostic Centre located at the North Hospital site from Monday (24th February). Patients will need to check in for their blood test appointments at...
Read moreDetailsCAPTURING THE ESSENCE OF LOCAL EVENTS: TURNING VIDEOS INTO VISUAL MEMORIES
Every special moment deserves to be remembered, especially during vibrant community events on the Isle of Wight. Have you ever captured a video of a local festival, a family gathering, or a spontaneous adventure? Transforming these videos into animated visual...
Read moreDetailsENTERTAINMENT ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT: A THRIVING SCENE ON THE RISE
You will never be bored on the Isle of Wight! The Island is a bustling centre of entertainment, with daily events occurring in every town. During the night, cities and villages become vibrant as pubs, taverns, bistros, and restaurants commence...
Read moreDetailsIS OVERREGULATION HARMING THE ECONOMY?
Overregulation has become a hot topic in discussions about the economy. Some argue that strict rules and regulations can stifle growth, while others believe they are necessary for safety and fairness. The balance between regulation and freedom is tricky, especially...
Read moreDetailsEAST WIGHT MP SLAMS GOVERNMENT CONSULTATION AS ‘AN INSULT TO ISLANDERS’
Joe Robertson, MP for Isle of Wight East, has slammed the Government’s consultation about a combined mayor authority for Hampshire and Isle of Wight as a 'shambles' and an 'insult to Islanders'. Published last week, the Government is seeking views...
Read moreDetailsRYDE’S POPULAR APPLEY SAND PARK REOPENS FOR 2025 SEASON
Appley Sand Park in Ryde has now re-opened for the 2025 season following a refresh by the Isle of Wight Council's Park and Open Spaces team. For over 25 years the popular sand park has been a unique place for...
Read moreDetailsBACK-BENCHES TO BARON: FREE EVENT TO REMEMBER FORMER MP STEVE ROSS
When a young Liberal named Stephen Ross challenged the Conservative establishment on the Isle of Wight in 1974, few could have predicted how this would reshape Island politics for generations to come. Now, a free event is being held in...
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