Organizers of the annual celebration of our home, Isle of Wight Day, are on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers willing to embrace the role of a colossal crab.

The focus of festivities on September 16 will be historic Brading Roman Villa, and you are invited to become a member of the ‘Friends of Wight Day’, a group established to help organise and deliver the various activities that happen on this special day. This year the fun will fittingly have a very Roman flavour.

Among the roles available is the opportunity to become Nipper, the 6ft vibrant orange crab, who serves as the much-loved mascot of Isle of Wight Day. Nipper will be making appearances at local businesses and schools, and adults, keen to don the Nipper outfit for a few hours over the next few weeks, will be warmly welcomed. There are also other tasks they need help with, such as managing the car parking area, litter picking, and providing general support on the day.

If you can spare some time leading up to the event or on the day itself to ensure a splendid experience for Island families on September 16, please visit isleofwightday.org and register as a friend. Your support will make a difference as Islanders celebrate life on the Island.