By Isle of Wight Observer
A weekend of live music, poetry and pints, in East Cowes, has raised more than £1,300 for Isle of Wight Search and Rescue (WightSAR).
The first-ever SARfest took place over the late May bank holiday at Waverley Park Holiday Centre, thanks to the support of park owner, Julian, and his team. The free-to-enter event featured eight local bands, Ruby and the Diamonds, It’s not a phase Mom!, Kindred Found, Forever to go, The Damien Paul Band, Rehab Ramones, Abandon and The Ohmz. who performed without charge. There were also poetry readings and a selection of beer and cider, with WightSAR volunteers pulling pints for the crowd.
The event raised £1,310 to support the volunteer-run search and rescue unit, which receives no central funding and relies on fund-raising for operational costs, equipment and training.
WightSAR chairman and founder, Dean Terrett, said: “We are humbled by the support that made this first SARfest possible. I can’t thank Waverley Park Holiday Centre enough for hosting us, or the brilliant bands and everyone who contributed; this funding will truly help save lives across the Island.”
He added that WightSAR hopes to make SARfest an annual event, with plans already forming for 2026.
