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.
COUNCILLOR FUNDS LIFE-SAVING DEFIBRILLATOR TRAINING IN TOTLAND AND FRESHWATER
A donation from Councillor Chris Jarman will help fund vital defibrillator training for volunteers in Totland and Freshwater, continuing a family legacy of support for life-saving services on the Isle of Wight. Councillor Jarman has confirmed that the contribution, made...
Read moreDetailsISLE OF WIGHT TRANSPORT PLAN MOVES INTO 15-YEAR DELIVERY PHASE
The Isle of Wight Council’s Island Transport Plan (ITP) is now moving into its 15-year implementation phase following approval by councillors last month.
Read moreDetailsISLE OF WIGHT TO RECEIVE £1.2MILLION SEND FUNDING BOOST – MP WELCOMES INVESTMENT
More than £1.2million in funding has been allocated to the Isle of Wight to expand specialist education provision for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), in what is described as the largest single high-needs capital allocation to date.
Read moreDetailsSAFETY TRAINERS BOOST WORKPLACE PROTECTION ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT
On the Isle of Wight, effective jobsite safety depends on equipping professionals with reliable construction gear that offers proper protection and comfort. Safety trainers, known for their protective soles and slip-resistant shoes, are increasingly recognised for enhancing workplace safety across...
Read moreDetailsHAIR TRANSPLANT IS NO LONGER ABOUT LOOKING YOUNGER; IT’S ABOUT LOOKING IN CONTROL
For years, hair transplants were easy to dismiss. They were often framed as vanity procedures for men unwilling to age gracefully or accept ageing as part of life. While in some cases that interpretation still lingers, it no longer fully...
Read moreDetailsBEST BRITISH IPTV SERVICES IN 2026: STRIMOLPTV, GREATESTIPTV & KENIPTV REVIEWED
What Is British IPTV and Why Are UK Viewers Switching in 2026? British IPTV — short for Internet Protocol Television — is rapidly replacing traditional satellite and cable television across the United Kingdom. Instead of relying on an expensive Sky...
Read moreDetailsFROM LIFEBOAT CREW TO LIFE PARTNERS – COWES RNLI COUPLE TIE THE KNOT
A pair of dedicated Cowes RNLI volunteers, who first met while serving on the crew 14 years ago, have tied the knot - returning to the lifeboat station where their journey began to celebrate.
Read moreDetailsSOUNDING SMART IN THE LOCAL PUB DURING FESTIVAL WEEK
Walking into a local tavern during a major racing festival usually means getting hit with a tidal wave of completely incomprehensible slang. This breakdown decodes the absolute nonsense shouted at the television screen, helping casual sports fans survive the chaotic...
Read moreDetailsTRANSFORMATION OF YOUTH JUSTICE SPACES CONTINUES WITH POLICE STATION UPGRADE
A major transformation of young people’s justice spaces across the Island has taken another step forward, with the installation of newly redesigned rooms at Newport Police Station now complete.
Read moreDetailsSTRONG DEMAND SEES ISLE OF WIGHT PROPERTIES SMASH GUIDE PRICES AT AUCTION
A structurally damaged cottage on the Island has sold in an auction bidding war for £101,000 - one of several lots to go under the Clive Emson hammer.
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