Christmas revellers serenaded on board Wightlink’s ferries

A festive performance by the Wight Harmony barbershop singers brought down the curtain on a busy schedule of Christmas entertainment on board Wightlink ferries and terminals.

A dozen performances were arranged throughout December across all routes. Besides Wight Harmony, singers also included pupils from Dover Park and Wootton primaries, two of the schools that recently formed educational partnerships with Wightlink, St Catherine’s School, Ventnor, and the Way Forward choir, part of Osel Enterprises a charity providing support for adults and young people with learning disabilities and autism.

There were also appearances by A4 Brass Quartet, Fusion Arts Choir, IW Symphony Orchestra String Quartet, Ryde Chorus and Newport Jazz Trio.

Many of the performances were scheduled to coincide with crossings bringing ‘tinsel and turkey’ parties to and from the Island. The groups were also invited to collect on board to raise money for their organisations.

Stuart James, Wightlink Marketing and Innovations Director says: “This is the third year we have had performances on festive sailings – and it was the biggest programme to date.

“These are really enjoyed by passengers and we know the performers enjoy playing in this unusual setting as well.

“We would like to thank all those groups who performed this year and we hope to welcome them all back – and possibly more – next year.”

Tracey Hill, Chief Executive of Osel Enterprises says: “This is our third year carol singing onboard Wightlink and once again we really enjoyed it. We’d like to say a big thank you to Wightlink for having us on board and also to those who kindly donated money.

“All money raised will be used to buy materials for the various groups we run at our activity centre based in Newport. We hope to back on the ferries spreading Christmas cheer again next year!”

Jane Wilford, headteacher at Wootton Primary says: “The children had a wonderful experience. It was an absolute pleasure and we hope to be part of next year’s programme again next year as these on-board shows really help to build pupil confidence as well as boosting their performance skills.”

Note to Editors

All the parents and/or guardians of children at Wootton Primary have given permission for Wightlink to use their images in this press release.

For more information, contact Karen Woods on 07775 694266 or [email protected]