By Chris Cornford
Sandown Forum, a Bay-based community organisation involving carnival, church and sports groups from the town, has marked its 25th anniversary with a Covid safe presentation.
Founder member, Cllr Heather Humby MBE, said: “Its been a very challenging time for communities. We’ve been able to keep in touch remotely and start planning for when guidance changes, and we can arrange safe events for local residents and visitors.”
The Rev Mark Williams, from Christ Church, added: “Sandown is a vibrant community, with the Forum helping keep all groups informed and involved, and we are all looking forward to commemorating significant events, and celebrating fun occasions, when we can.”
The Forum raised funds to provide a community notice board, and have made it available for the church and other groups to provide information in a central location. Members are now working on events to commemorate the centenary of the town’s war memorial and other special events in the summer.
Cllr Humby concluded: “The Forum has come a long way since 1996, and the need for the network will be greater in the future, with plans in place for community events, such as a beating the bounds walk, later in the year.”
Isle of Wight Observer