From the dance floors of Spain to festival stages across the UK, Isle of Wight performers and creatives are continuing to shine in 2025 – supported by a ferry lifeline from Red Funnel’s Island Ambassadors initiative.
The scheme offers 12-month ferry travel sponsorships to talented individuals across the Isle of Wight, helping them access national and international opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. This practical support enables young people and performers to travel to competitions, performances and major events across the country.
Now more than halfway through the year, Red Funnel’s 2025 Island Ambassadors have already notched up significant achievements.
Indie rock band Coach Party are among the programme’s standouts. Their latest single ‘Girls!’ recently reached number 4 in the UK vinyl charts, and their second studio album ‘Caramel’ is set to be released in September. Described as the band’s most personal record yet, the album is expected to further solidify their presence on the UK music scene.
Coach Party recently performed at The Great Escape Festival in Brighton and launched their album with a special show at London’s 100 Club. Their summer line-up includes appearances at DocksFest in Cleethorpes, Forest Fest in Killimy, Ireland, and a homecoming performance at Ventnor Fringe Festival.
In the dance world, 13-year-old Jess Burfitt from Shanklin represented Team England as a soloist at the 2025 Dance World Cup in Burgos, Spain, placing fifth in the commercial dance category. Jess, who trains at MLD Studio in Ryde, was selected from hundreds of young dancers nationwide.
Having danced since the age of 2, Jess has built a strong competitive record. She previously competed at the 2024 Dance World Cup in Prague and is now preparing for the national finals later this year after a series of high-ranking regional placements.
Jess Burfitt has said:
“I was so proud to represent England in the Dance World Cup for the second year in a row. I was incredibly grateful for all the support from my dance teacher Michelle Davis, my parents, and the sponsors who made it possible for me.”
Sisters Jasmine and Isabel have also had a strong year on the competitive circuit. They both reached the top 8 at the World Freelance Dance Championship, with Jasmine securing a top 9 finish in both the Street and Freestyle Disco solo categories.
Isabel, competing for the third time at national level, reached the quarter finals in the Street category and finished 2nd overall in the World Championship. Just a week later, she retained her title as Champion of Champions at the Hampshire Championships.
Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, has said:
“The Isle of Wight is home to so much amazing talent and we know just how much hard work goes into preparing for success.
“We’re proud to play a part in showcasing the Island’s stars on the national stage, and by supporting talented Islanders with their ferry travel, we help them focus on what they do best to gain the recognition they truly deserve.”
The Island Ambassador programme forms part of Red Funnel’s ESG strategy, Changing Tides, which includes commitments to the local community and small businesses.
To follow the progress of this year’s Island Ambassadors and Supported Teams, visit www.redfunnel.co.uk/proud-support.
Well done Red Funnel