By Isle of Wight Observer
Learning to read is critical for giving children the best start in life, and I was delighted to welcome the launch of ‘Let’s Go See’ – a new initiative which gives every Year 2 child on the Isle of Wight three ‘Let’s Go See’ books, alongside teacher and parent toolkits and classroom activities, to help make reading part of everyday life. Nationally, 26 per cent of children leave primary school without reaching expected reading levels, and on the Isle of Wight, literacy levels are below the national average. The children thoroughly enjoyed meeting ‘Pilot Ollie’, at Dover Park Primary School, in Ryde, and looking through their new books.
At this time of year, I particularly enjoy meeting local organisations to see what everyone is doing in preparation for Christmas. I met with the Salvation Army, in Sandown, who have been collecting toys for families in need to help ensure that no children go without this Christmas. In Ventnor, I attended the Thursday Kitchen annual Christmas dinner, at St Catherine’s Church, meeting volunteers and chatting with local residents. I also visited the Royal Mail sorting office, in Ryde, to thank our local Posties for all their hard work throughout the year – but especially at this busy time.
Looking ahead to next year, ferries will remain top of the agenda. I have now met with officials at the Department for Transport to share evidence of how ferries have got more expensive and timetables have been reduced over the last decade or more. Further meetings are due to be held in the New Year. I will continue to champion our local communities in Westminster, including our towns like Ryde, Sandown, Shanklin and Ventnor, in order to get the support we deserve. The Government needs to understand that many aspects of life are more expensive or complicated living on an Island, and it is not only the north of England, or Scottish islands, that should be benefitting from Government support.
From me and my family, I wish everyone a peaceful and festive Christmas and happy New Year 2026.