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.
CHEVERTON COPSE EYES UP EXPANSION WITH PLANNING SOUGHT FOR 17 NEW LODGES
A holiday park near Apse Heath could have 17 new lodges built as part of a phased transformation into an ‘upmarket and exclusive tourism attraction’. Mike Haslin submitted a planning application to the council to replace 17 touring pitches at...
Read moreDetailsLUXURY TABLEWARE: A FUSION OF STYLE, ELEGANCE, AND INTERIOR INSPIRATION
For many, the luxury market and everything associated with it might seem out of reach—almost like an aristocratic indulgence. The experts at MDMAISON shared insights on what these elements are and how you can incorporate them into your interior to bring a...
Read moreDetailsELECTRICAL ENGINEER TURNED DEMENTIA CARE WORKER EMBARKS ON APPRENTICESHIP
An executive from Bangladesh has swapped power plants for a career in dementia care - and is now about to embark on an apprenticeship. Limon Zubayed moved to the UK from India in 2022 but never expected to find his...
Read moreDetailsRYDE SEA CADETS SAIL THE SOLENT ON HYBRID ENERGY FERRY
Ryde Sea Cadets set sail on a larger boat than usual when they embarked with Wightlink to cross the Solent on its flagship Victoria of Wight. The young seafarers were invited aboard for a round-trip as the Cadets are now...
Read moreDetails8-BED HMO PLANNED FOR SHANKLIN’S ATHERLEY ROAD
A large, 8-bedroom house in the centre of Shanklin could become a house of multiple occupation (HMO) Mr Singh has applied to the Isle of Wight Council for a change of use of 23 Atherley Road, currently a 2-storey home...
Read moreDetailsBETTER DAYS CAFÉ LATEST TO BENEFIT FROM JAMIE’S FUNDRAISING EFFORTS
Islander Jamie Hindson is continuing his monthly donation to local good causes, handing over a cheque for £100 to Better Days Café in Ventnor. Throughout 2025, the 34-year-old is making donations to a number of different charities and organisations across...
Read moreDetailsVOTE NOW FOR THE ISLE OF WIGHT’S ZEB IN NATIONAL TOURISM SUPERSTAR COMPETITION
Islanders are being encouraged to vote now in a national competition which could see a major win for Sandown's Wildheart Animal Sanctuary. The Sanctuary’s Zeb Fisher has been shortlisted alongside 9 other finalists from across the UK in the VisitEngland...
Read moreDetailsSPORTS MARKETING KINGS: THE INTERSECTION OF HOLIVERSE, BINANCE AND CRYPTO.COM
Cryptocurrency companies are racing to capture the attention of sports fans through billion-dollar contracts and innovative projects. Major players like Holiverse, Binance, and Crypto.com are storming stadiums, racetracks, and esports arenas, reshaping how fans perceive sports. What Drives This Expansion? Investment in Real...
Read moreDetailsLOCAL NEWS FLOURISHING BUT COUNTY PRESS SEES ANOTHER CIRCULATION DROP
Independent, award-winning local news is continuing to flourish on the Isle of Wight - but new audited figures reveal that the Isle of Wight County Press is now selling less than 9,000 copies a week. Much-anticipated circulation figures, published by...
Read moreDetailsPOLICE SEEK MAN WHO ENTERED HOME AFTER ‘TOUCHING HIMSELF’
A man seen touching himself moments before walking into a home in Wootton - much to the shock of the homeowner inside - is being sought by Police. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary would like to speak to the...
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