Tombola stall at the Royal Isle of Wight County Show raises £395 towards new safety boat
There was a lot of fun and camaraderie at the Royal Isle of Wight County Show in July, where Cowes Sailability Club ran a tombola stall. Families, local people and visitors alike came to the stall in the hope of picking out a winning ticket and going home with one of the many prizes available. The tombola was organised by Cowes Sailability Club volunteers, who managed to raise £395 over the course of the two-day show.
As well as raising funds, the event also provided Cowes Sailability Club with the opportunity to promote the sailing and boating opportunities that it provides for people with disabilities on the island. Volunteers spoke with dozens of disabled people and their families, explained the range of accessible water-based activities available and answered questions.
Chrissy Smyth, one of the volunteers who planned the tombola, says: “It was a great event, there was a lovely atmosphere and the sun was shining! Children, in particular, loved spinning the wheel on the tombola drum and picking out the tickets. I’m just delighted by how successful the event was and how much money we raised.”
Cowes Sailability Club is currently campaigning for funds to buy and equip a replacement rigid inflatable boat (RIB) to use as a safety vessel during sailing activities for people with disabilities. The £395 raised at the show will be used to acquire equipment for this safety boat, which the charity hopes to have in time to use in the 2025 season.
For the volunteers, who took turns on the stall, the event was a welcome opportunity to get together and have a fun day out together. “There is always a lot of laughter at our events,” says Roger Sutton, Cowes Sailability Club’s Commodore. “It’s not just about the sailing and boating, it’s about the friendships that volunteers and members make and the good times that we all have together.”
The Royal Isle of Wight County Show has been in existence for 191 years and was patronised by Queen Victoria. Ever since 1833, the event has focused on showcasing and supporting the island’s agricultural sector and promoting understanding of rural issues to island residents and visitors. This year’s show included everything from livestock parades, pony races and vintage tractor displays to food, drink and craft tents and family entertainment.
Next year, the Royal Isle of Wight County Show takes place on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th July 2025.