The magic of Light up the Wight has captured national attention this year, with BBC’s The One Show filming some of the Island’s most spectacular Christmas lights displays yesterday evening (Monday).
Presenter Angellica Bell joined the festive fun to shine a spotlight on the ever-popular annual tradition, which sees homes across the Isle of Wight go all out with glittering decorations, twinkling lights and impressive displays.
On the first day of this year’s competition, Angelica hopped aboard Southern Vectis’ brilliantly-decorated Christmas Lights tour bus and travelled on over to Sandown to see the unique Victoria Road display, which last year saw a visit from a famous Harry Potter actor! Filming also took place at St Vincent Care Home’s big switch-on in Binstead, with D-Day Veteran Alec Penstone switching on their impressive display.
Lastly, the bus headed to Ash Lane in Gunville to learn more about last year’s winning display – and what it takes to put on such a spectacle.
Island Echo’s Carl Atkinson-Goffe was interviewed about this year’s competition, detailing the story behind Light up the Wight and the spirit of community it brings each festive season. Island Echo has run the competition for the past 10 years.
Filming on the night was done by local-filming company People Media Productions. Established in 2021, the company supplies the BBC with short films for The One Show, as well as making documentaries for other channels and organisations. The company continues to develop screenplays and drama for broadcast and social media.
Co-founder Tony Steyger says:
“The Island is rich in local stories with universal appeal,” and our latest film for The One highlights the strength of community spirit and captures an uplifting project filled with shared joy – perfect story for the festive season.
20 dazzling displays are featured on this year’s official map, with Islanders invited to tour the displays throughout December and vote for their favourite online at www.islandecho.co.uk/xmas.
Southern Vectis is once again sponsoring the competition, with a £700 prize pot up for grabs for the Island’s most impressive festive displays, as chosen by public vote. The bus operator is running its very special tour every night between 8th-24th December.
The One Show feature is expected to air on BBC One shortly.
Look forward to seeing it.
My favourite Christmas lights is in
Whitwell.