Walk the Wight 2026 has raised a record-breaking £620,454.67 for Mountbatten Isle of Wight – smashing the event’s previous fundraising record by more than £60,000.
The final total was revealed at a thank you event last night (Thursday) evening, following this year’s walk, which took place on Sunday 10th May and was sponsored by the Isle of Wight Festival and Red Funnel.
More than 9,000 people took part, choosing from 4 different routes of up to 26 miles across the Isle of Wight, while others completed the challenge in their own way, including sessions in Mountbatten’s gym.
The latest total eclipses the £560,000 raised in 2024 and the £515,000 generated in 2025, making it the most successful Walk the Wight in the event’s history.
Mountbatten CEO Becky McGregor, who completed the full walk from Bembridge to Alum Bay, has said:
“I cannot thank you enough for taking part and for supporting Walk the Wight 2026. This is an extraordinary amount of money, and I am quite overwhelmed.
“Funding for hospices is complex and challenging, and by far and away the majority of the funds needed for us to support Islanders dealing with death, dying and bereavement comes from fundraising events like the amazing Walk the Wight, alongside donations, gifts in Wills and sales in our charity shops.
Article continues below this advertisement “Because only a fraction of our funding comes from the NHS, we simply cannot do what we do without you. To see Walk the Wight grow for yet another year has been incredibly moving and humbling.”
Walk the Wight organiser Ashleigh Gibbs has said:
“Every year, Walk the Wight brings together an incredible community of walkers, volunteers, supporters and fundraisers, and this year’s event was no exception. I am immensely grateful to everyone who gave their time, energy and support to make it such a special day.
“This achievement belongs to every person who walked, volunteered, donated or cheered from the sidelines. You help make Walk the Wight the Island event it is today. Your support ensures Mountbatten continues to support Island families.
“Over 85 per cent of this compassionate 24/7 end-of-life care is delivered in Islanders’ own homes, and through day services and outpatients at the John Cheverton Centre, with the rest on Mountbatten’s inpatient unit in Newport.
“Thank you for standing alongside Mountbatten Isle of Wight and for helping us be there for those who need us most.”
The Schools Walk also enjoyed a record-breaking year, contributing more than £54,000 towards the final fundraising total.
Gurnard Primary School lifted the Schools Walk trophy after raising £4,421.16.
Pre-registration has already opened for Walk the Wight 2027, which will take place on Sunday 9th May. Those who pre-register will receive a 10% discount on their entry fee and will be among the first able to officially sign up when registration opens in January.
