Winners of the 2022 Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards revealed at special ceremony

The results of this year’s much anticipated Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards have been revealed at last night’s (Thursday 10 November) ceremony, which took place at Northwood House, Cowes.

The coveted annual awards recognised a wide variety of businesses, from those who have been part of the fabric of the Island for decades, through to newcomers bringing fresh talent to the scene. The awards highlighted shining stars within the community with a total of 60 awards handed out across 20 categories, divided into via four main groups (Accommodation, Food and Drink, Things to Do and Other).

Engagement with this year’s awards hit a record high. With over 200 businesses nominated and a total of 65,000 votes, the outcome underscored the resilience and determination of Island businesses, particularly following labour challenges within hospitality and tourism.

The Orchards Holiday Park, Briddlesford Farm, Harbour Kitchen, Smoking Lobster and Monkey Haven were among the Gold winners for the night, while the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary notably walked away as the only double-Gold award winner for the night, taking home top prizes for Best Large Attraction and Best Place for Dogs.

Discussing last night’s celebrations, Fran Collins, Chief Executive at Red Funnel, said: “It was a pleasure to celebrate with so many hardworking and unique local Island businesses who are delivering outstanding and memorable experiences that keep visitors coming back to the Island. I would like to congratulate all those who took part in the awards this year and I’m already looking forward to next year!"

Commenting on their double win, Derek Needham, Charity Manager at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary, said: “It was a complete shock to be taking home two awards tonight especially a gold for Best Large Attraction – which we are incredibly proud of.

“It is a testament to the hard work of all of our staff, despite the difficult climate we find ourselves in. Congratulations to everyone involved in making the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary the best large attraction on the Island.”
 

The full list of 2022 Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards Winners can be found HERE

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Notes to editors

About Red Funnel
Red Funnel is the original Isle of Wight ferry company with roots tracing back to 1820. Based in the UK port of Southampton, Red Funnel carries 2.3m passengers and over 800,000 vehicles on its ferry route between the UK port of Southampton and East Cowes and 1.1m passengers between Southampton and West Cowes on its Red Jet Hi-Speed service.  

In addition to ferry travel, Red Funnel is the only cross-Solent operator to offer ferry inclusive bonded holiday accommodation, attraction tickets, festival and event tickets and activity packages. Sub-brands include ‘Red Jet’ (the Hi-Speed passenger only ferry service serving West Cowes) and its on board café, ‘ReFuel’.  

The Company is a founder member of Visit Isle of Wight Ltd, the Island’s not for profit destination management organisation and Red Funnel sponsors or supports most of the Island’s premier events including the IW Festival, Cowes Week, Rhythm Tree, Wight Proms, and Walk the Wight as well as a range of community and niche interest events. Red Funnel’s Charity of the Year, 2022 is Young Lives vs. Cancer.

For more information, visit www.redfunnel.co.uk.