“We express our immense gratitude for the overwhelming support received from the community leading up to, during, and following the festival, particularly amidst the ongoing cost of living crisis. Reviving the festival after a hiatus during COVID-19 presented significant challenges, but our first-year ambition was to learn and shape the festival’s future. Witnessing people rejoining the community, and embracing the spirit of Christmas, has been truly magical. The remarkable generosity and solidarity displayed assure us that, together, we can make a positive impact on the Island Community. “After a little break in January, whilst we waited for remaining funds to be collected, we are now back to thinking about Christmas already, and looking forward to another successful year of festive joy, community spirit, and charitable contributions in 2024. Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to welcoming you at this year’s celebration!” –
Considering the recent national news revealing King Charles’ medical procedure for an enlarged prostate, emphasising the need for early screening, the festival organisers have decided to prioritise support for the IW Prostate Cancer Support Group as a lead beneficiary for the proceeds of the 2023 festival. Prostate Cancer claims more lives than any other cancer in the UK, with a man succumbing to it every 45 minutes, totalling over 11,500 deaths annually. Early diagnosis is crucial for successfully treating prostate cancer. On the Isle of Wight, where the diagnosis rate is one of the highest in the UK, over 300 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year. The IW Prostate Cancer Support Group plays a pivotal role in the community by providing free screening for men. The festival committee recognises the paramount importance of this charity in raising awareness and essential funds to address the prevalence and impact of prostate cancer. 
The Vectis Vintage Tractor & Engine club, a standout feature of the 2023 festival, demonstrated their commitment to the cause by selecting the IW Prostate Cancer Support Group as their chosen beneficiary for their tractor run, held on the Saturday of the festival. In support of the charity’s invaluable community efforts on the Island, a generous donation of £500 has been made to further the mission of the island-based charity. Moose Kemp, Treasurer of the Vectis Vintage Tractor & Engine club said:
“We have nearly 70 members, who are predominantly men of a certain age, so this charity is one many of our members hold dear, having either been screened themselves, and may as a result have been diagnosed with the illness. We hold at least two tractor runs each year for charity. And for the past couple of years, we’ve supported the IW Prostate Cancer Support Group. We are absolutely delighted to raise such a phenomenal amount thanks to the Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival and our members look forward to taking part in this year’s festivities.”
Roger Denness, Chairman for the IW Prostate Cancer Support Group, said:
“This money is going back to fund the vital testing and support services we provide, here on the Isle of Wight. Each PSA blood test costs us £17 to process, so this money will help us to support 30 Island men. Early screening also allows us to identify the BRCA gene which is hereditary through both male and female bloodlines. Therefore, this screening process has the ability to prevent other family members who carry this gene, as they are 2.5 times more likely of developing other forms of cancer, including breast cancer in women.”
