By Isle of Wight Observer
Last Thursday, a tremendous final effort by volunteers saw the completion of the project to repaint all the railings on the Sandown Esplanade. Initially planned as a twilight session, the volunteers persevered under the street-lights when the daylight faded, ensuring the job was finished. This marked the conclusion of a project that began in July, with this final session bringing the total to more than 300 hours of volunteered time.
The result is the restoration of more than 750 metres (2,461ft) of Victorian-era railings. Historical photos, dating back to around 1890, show the railings were likely painted black, but, during the restoration, it became clear that, over the years, they have been painted various colours, including sky blue, green, and even orange.
Organised by town councillor, Paddy Lightfoot, and significantly funded by Sandown Town Council, the project also received equipment donations from local businesses. Seafront cafés supported the volunteers, with free drinks and ice creams, with more than 45 people working together during one session.
Councillor Lightfoot remarked, “It’s an impressive volunteer effort, the first of hopefully many Bay Place Plan projects aimed at improving the places we live and work in. We have seen volunteers aged from 12 to over 90 helping out.”
Many residents and visitors have expressed their appreciation for the volunteers’ hard work.
