By Isle of Wight Observer
The Island’s High Sheriff, Nigel Hartley, helped launch Shanklin Voluntary Youth & Community Centre’s (SVYCC) 30th Anniversary, with a visit to the centre, meeting some of the volunteers and most of the 160+ members on the evening.
SVYCC relaunched in October 1996, and will mark the occasion with a programme of events, including Hallowe’en and Christmas celebrations, and culminating with a carnival float.
Mr Hartley said: “I had an absolute blast visiting SVYCC, with more that 150 young people together enjoying the best of each other. Run completely by volunteers, the success of this incredible service is so rooted in the true sense of community.”
SVYCC leader, Mark Biddlecombe, responded: “We are grateful to the support of the community, and appreciate Nigel following in the tradition of Island High Sheriffs joining in with the spirit of the Centre, and recognising the dedication of the team of volunteers.
“I am the latest in a long line of High Sheriffs to visit, and each day, as High Sheriff of this remarkable Island, brings new experiences and a new joy of being able to share and publicise such examples of our wonderful county.”
TC’s is the name of the Friday night youth project. The Centre is also home to drama/arts groups, a choir, martial arts, older persons, and table tennis groups. Organisers are also planning a celebratory event for Make A Difference Day 2026, which takes place tomorrow (Saturday).
