By Isle of Wight Observer
Bembridge Fort allowed in the public for the first time since the 1950s, with an open day on Sunday.
Around 650 people attended the event, which included live music, entertainment, stalls, military vehicles, and classic cars, and carnival craft workshops.
The event was organised by Eventure Collective, in association with the Bembridge Fort Trust. The fort was used during both the First and Second World Wars. During WWII the fort became one of the most secret places in the country, and critical for the defence of the Island.
The development of radar and the operation of anti-submarine loop, ASDIC, and remote mine systems took place there, when it was occupied by the Army, Navy, and Royal Air Force at the same time.
Following the war, the fort was abandoned and became heavily vandalised. It came into the care of the National Trust in 1967.
In 2024 the Bembridge Fort Trust took over ownership and operation of the Fort, with an aim to both restore and interpret the special place back into community use.
The event was the first of its kind, and showed off the improvements which have taken place over the last couple of years, with the help of National Lottery Heritage funding.
Dan Selle, of Eventure Collective, said: “Windows and doors have been replaced, a new parade ground has been laid, and there are new officers’ quarters.
“There was lots happening with entertainment from DJ Omar, Boogie Woogie Bluebirds, AJ children’s entertainer, Sam Bambo jazz band, and Sunny and Blue. There were various charity and fund-raising stalls, including the IW Parachute Association as well as model hot-air balloons, vintage cars, and the New Carnival Company.
“Visitors were able to explore the fort, and learn about its history with guided tours of the tunnels. We’d like to give a special thank you to all the volunteers who have helped with the fort over the last couple of years and on the day. It couldn’t be done without them.”
Mal Butler