By Mal Butler
The founder of the world-renowned Minghella ice cream, Eddie Minghella, celebrated his 104th birthday on Saturday.
Eddie was joined by family and friends at a party at St Vincent’s retirement home, Ryde, where he moved to in 2023, along with staff, other residents and visitors.
Eddie said: “Am I really 104? I’m amazed!” He enjoyed a glass of wine and was toasted with champagne. The staff provided birthday balloons with ‘104’ printed on them, as well as making a memory stick for him.
Over eight decades on the Island, Eddie has worked for countless charities and civic causes. He was a prominent Island businessman and Isle of Wight councillor. He chaired Ryde Business Association, Ryde Carnival Association and Save the Children IW branch. He was also the chair of governors for St Mary’s Primary School, and Deputy Mayor of Ryde.
His many achievements include being made a Freeman of Ryde and Life President of the Chamber of Commerce. He is also a member of the Island’s Catenians, an international fellowship for Catholic men which provides support for many charities.
He married Gloria, his wife of 63 years, in St Mary’s Church, Ryde, just after her 20th birthday and began working in her family’s café, The Mayfayre, in the High Street, creating a small ice cream factory in the back.
Their businesses expanded, and, over the years, they bought the building next door and then several more, off George Street, behind the Commodore Cinema.
As time went on, Minghella ice cream won many awards both national and international, and became highly sought after. It was to be found in stores and supermarkets up and down the country, including Harrods and Fortnum & Mason.
The couple were also known for more than their ice cream, with their café, restaurant and hotel business, opposite Woolworths, being a landmark in its day.
Isle of Wight Observer