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.
POLICE ON PATROL AFTER MAN GRABS CHILD’S BACKPACK IN WOOTTON
BREAKING: A man reportedly grabbed the handle of a 9-year-old child’s backpack, before fleeing in a van.
Read moreDetails“I LIVED IN CONSTANT FEAR” – RYDE WOMAN SPEAKS OUT AFTER YEAR OF ABUSE
A Ryde woman who was strangled and subjected to sustained abuse by her Romanian boyfriend has spoken of living in a 'state of constant fear'.
Read moreDetailsISLE OF WIGHT MPs URGE PAUSE ON NEW FERRY LEVY OVER COST CONCERNS
Both of the Isle of Wight’s MPs have written to the Labour Government calling for a pause to controversial new ferry charges.
Read moreDetailsMEXICAN RESTAURANT CHAIN ZAMBRERO TARGETS ISLE OF WIGHT EXPANSION
A fast-growing Mexican restaurant chain is eyeing expansion on the Isle of Wight, with plans to open at least one new site and create around 15 jobs.
Read moreDetailsISLE OF WIGHT PLANNING APPLICATIONS: 1ST MAY 2026
The following planning applications and appeals have been submitted to the Isle of Wight Council.
Read moreDetailsHOW SPORTS BRING PEOPLE TOGETHER
Sports are one of the best ways to bring people together. Around the world, millions of people watch and play sports every day. From local matches to big international tournaments, sports create excitement and strong emotions. Some fans also explore...
Read moreDetailsPOLICE CHARGE 2 SHOPLIFTERS AFTER NEWPORT DAY OF ACTION
Police have charged 2 shoplifting suspects and made a further 2 arrests following a targeted day of action against retail crime in Newport.
Read moreDetails2 MONTHS OF LIGHTS PLANNED FOR MAIN ROAD TO SANDOWN FOR SAFETY UPGRADE
The road will be closed for 3 days before motorists face almost 2 months of temporary traffic lights, as part of a scheme to improve pedestrian safety.
Read moreDetailsMAN ARRESTED AFTER ALTERCATION BETWEEN PAIR AT YAVERLAND CAR PARK
BREAKING: Police were called to Yaverland early this morning (Thursday) following reports of a verbal altercation between a man and a woman.
Read moreDetailsSAILINGS CANCELLED AFTER TUG CALLED TO ASSIST FAULT-HIT WIGHTLINK FERRY
BREAKING: Wightlink has been forced to cancel a number of sailings on its Fishbourne-Portsmouth service today (Thursday).
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