The Isle of Wight Radio Child of Wight Awards 2026 have celebrated 15 inspirational young people from across the Island.
A night to remember
The awards took place at Tapnell Farm last Friday (4th September), with children and their families able to enjoy the venue’s play facilities before the ceremony.
Inside the main event room, a mountain of beanbags provided a relaxed setting for the evening.
The event was hosted by Isle of Wight Radio’s Paul Topping and Heather McCallum, who brought plenty of warmth and personality to the ceremony.
This year’s winners
This year’s winners were recognised for their courage, kindness, talent, determination and commitment to helping others.
The winners were:
- Young Conservationist – Harry and Joanna Burdett
- Fundraiser of the Year – Fred Eccleston Hall
- Best Friend – Amy Marchant and Akita Smith
- Best Performer – Chloe and Anna Meredith
- Best Sibling – Octavia
- Young Achiever – Evelyn Bennett
- Sporting Star – Harrison Carter
- Asa Singleton Courageous Child – Oscar De Crescenzo-Joy
- Make A Difference – Riley Edwards
- Young Carer – Finley Chitty
- Inspiration Award – Demi McBride
- Overall Child of Wight 2026 – Phoenix Haywood
Overall Child of Wight 2026: Phoenix Haywood
The Overall Child of Wight award went to Phoenix Haywood, whose story of resilience and determination impressed the judges.
Phoenix was diagnosed with a rare tumour at six years old, but has continued to pursue dance and creative activities, raise money for charity and even launch her own vegan dog biscuit business, Wight Wags Bakery.
Thanks to sponsors and supporters
A huge thank you was given to everyone who nominated a young person, as well as the event’s sponsors.
The 2026 awards were supported by category sponsors including The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Red Funnel, Glanvilles Damant, HTP Apprenticeship College, Auctions Number One, Renodrain, Education Destination, Wightlink, D&S Carpets and Utilita.
Special thanks was also shared with headline sponsor ICR Touch, whose support helped make the evening possible.
The awards celebrated not just the winners, but the wider Island community of young people, families, teachers and volunteers who continue to make a difference across the Isle of Wight.
Celebrating the Island’s young people
Isle of Wight Radio Managing Director, Claire John, said,
“The Child of Wight Awards are one of the most special events on the Isle of Wight Radio calendar. Every year, we hear incredible stories of young Islanders showing courage, kindness, determination and a real commitment to helping others.
“What makes the evening so memorable is seeing these young people and their families come together to celebrate everything they have achieved. Each nominee has a story worth telling, and we’re incredibly proud to be able to give them the recognition they deserve.
“I’d like to thank everyone who nominated a child this year, along with our wonderful sponsors and everyone involved in making the awards possible.
“Our headline sponsor, ICR Touch, has played a hugely important role in helping us celebrate the Island’s young people, and we’re incredibly grateful for their support.”
News shared by Dom on behalf of Isle of Wight Radio. Ed
