In a weekend of almost unparalleled significance, here’s a look at how the Island celebrated the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Whilst some watched proceedings on television, there were plenty of events that took place here on the Isle of Wight to mark the special occasion, and here’s a look at what went on.
On Saturday, in East Cowes, a crowd gathered at Osborne House – one of the homes of former monarch Queen Victoria – to watch the ceremony on a large screen.
Whilst the weather wasn’t great, those who braved the elements were able to watch proceedings in a comfy deck chair with an excellent view of the grand house.
A big screen was also in place at Whippingham Community Centre where more than 50 people gathered to watch, followed by tea, the planting of a commemorative tree and the distribution of lapel badges. The event was organised by the Whippingham Community Association and supported by the Parish Council.
The next day in the town – in much better weather – a large number of people gathered at Jubilee Recreation Ground for the Big Lunch.
Local businesses were on show with stalls dotted around the field, representatives from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary and Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were in attendance too.
Live music entertained those present before the Coronation concert was broadcast live on a large screen as the sun set.
At least 2 Islanders were lucky enough to win tickets for the concert and so were present in London for the actual event.
Lisa Edwards who went with her husband Pete said:
“It was a fantastic day and a chance in a life event. The weather was sunny and hot and there was a great atmosphere despite waiting 3 hours to get in and then another 5 before the concert started. Singing the National Anthem actually to King Charles III was surreal to say the least!”
Elsewhere on Sunday across the Isle of Wight street parties took place, with roads closed so residents could celebrate together with their local community.
Nettlestone & Seaview Community Partnership organised a Coronation Street Party along the Esplanade in Seaview. Around 400 local residents enjoyed the sunshine, the sea views, the sail past, the gun salute, the Vectis Brass Band and a very jolly lunchtime. Part of the table money was given to AGE UK IW and that combined with some generous donations amounted to over £350.
In Gatcombe, locals enjoyed a street party in which a large spread was laid on including an amazing-looking crown cake made by a local baker Elizabeth Smith.
A large, seemingly never-ending table, lined the main road through the village with locals and non-locals enjoying refreshments with one another in the glorious Bank Holiday sunshine.
Elsewhere at Vecta House Care Home in Newport residents enjoyed afternoon tea and then a street party with their families whilst over at sister care home Orchard House residents enjoyed cocktails and were treated to some musical entertainment from the ladies at The Double Take.
Kim Fleming, Manager of Orchard House Care Home, has said:
“We wanted to create an unforgettable experience for our residents and guests, and I think we achieved that goal. We are so grateful to everyone who helped make this event possible, and we hope that everyone had as much fun as we did!”
Earlier in the week, a handful of Islanders were fortunate enough to be invited to a garden party at Buckingham Palace. Local residents present included Wendy Parsons from Pan Together and Christine Jackson and Ben Holbrook from Sandown Green Town Volunteers – the latter who were flown to London by Dan Subani from Sandown Airport.
Here – alongside hundreds of other community champions – they were able to enjoy a day in the surrounds of the Royal Residence even getting the chance to see King Charles just days before his big day.
Other communities took the opportunity to undertake projects to coincide with the Coronation such as in Seaview where the wrought iron gates of St Peter’s Church were overhauled much to the delight of the local parishioners. The gates were sandblasted professionally by Adam Groves and then painted & re-hung by Graham Bridger and Christine Stone of Nettlestone and Seaview Men in Sheds.
Meanwhile, the Rainbows, Brownies and Girlguides took part in a wide range of activities including crown-making and the Big Help Out.
The nurseries throughout Tops have taken part in a variety of activities to celebrate the King’s coronation, activities included, creating their own crowns and scepters, a royal parade, and a special storytelling session where the children learnt all about the history of the King’s Coronation.
The Tops Catering team also put together a special menu to honour the King, for the children across Tops to enjoy. The main dish on the menu was a delicious Duchy cheddar and tomato quiche. The Catering team used fresh ingredients all produced from the Duchy estates of which the foundations and sustainable ethos was created by King Charles, a great tribute to the King.
i was ok i was putting my shed up so didn’t have to watch that crap
You didn’t call. I was willing to help. I ended up watching paint dry. Far more interesting than the alternative.
Oh no was that last weekend I forgot to put the TV on what a shame
I was on the beach mourning the death of the UK’s democracy. Was not till I got home that I realised we never had one, it’s all been a lie. As of last week, you can be arrested for having a lock on your bicycle and be considering using it to lock something, such as your bike, to street furniture like a bike rack.
I, I have to confess I did watch. He looked miserable as for her, I’m fuming. What a disgrace as,
a former king gave up his thrown because he was in love with a divorcee!! What happened to those rules? Queen E said Camila will not be known as Queen just Queen consort but what happened? Roll on Will n Kate who just might have the descents’ to do it low key, pay tax and make Great Britain great again.. Charles your children asked you to not marry her, I would say how different our country would be if The Queen of Hearts were still alive and Camila was never in the picture..
I’m sorry – with such a wealth divide in our country, how can anyone justify a £250M coronation and a tax payer funded monarchy (especially when you consider their personal wealth).
Very easily when you know that the Royals own by right the entire country yet low life vile breeding criminals arrive here daily costing billions EVERY year and commit the vilest of crimes.
Think IF capable
Ah, you’re one of those that ever discussion has to come back to immigration. These are two separate topics, get with the programme.
This is disgraceful! How can IE publish these disturbing and frankly treasonable comments? We should be getting behind our Royal benefit recipients and supporting one of the country’s richest families. Come on Britain. Up the Royals!
Because everyone is entitled to their own opinion and IE respect that.