By Isle of Wight Observer
Isle of Wight Friendship Force has welcomed visitors from Santa Barbara and other American clubs as part of an international cultural exchange.
The group is part of a global organisation which links people from different countries by welcoming members into homes and sharing local activities.
During their stay, the American guests enjoyed a programme showcasing the Island, including a guided walk from Bonchurch to Ventnor Park, led with insight from David Howarth, of the Ramblers, about the area, and Charles Dickens’ time there. The walk was followed by a cream tea in the park, and a putting competition, won by an American visitor with a hole in one.
The group also visited Osborne House and gardens, Carisbrooke Castle, Alum Bay, The Needles, and Godshill model village, where they were given talks by owner, Stuart, and chief gardener, Fred. Double-decker buses were also a new experience for the visitors, whose home city has only single-deckers. The visit included shared meals, a farewell lunch, and a talk by Mia from Ability Dogs 4 Young People, who was joined by two labrador puppies and their trainers. The programme ended with guitar music from Eric and Steve, with guests singing along to British and American favourites.
IW Friendship Force has a busy programme for the rest of 2026 and into 2027, with a visit from a Canadian club in July, followed by a trip to Boston and New Hampshire in September.
More information is available at iw.observer/friendship-force, or by emailing friendshipforceiow@hotmail.com.