Red Funnel's Proud to Support initiative provides over £70,000 in sponsorship aid

Last updated:24, December 2025

As the Isle of Wight counts down to 2026, Red Funnel is celebrating the exceptional achievements of local talents supported through its Proud to Support initiative.

Over the past 12 months, the programme has provided more than £70,000 in travel assistance through 43 sponsorships – including 16 Island Ambassadors, 12 Supported Teams and 15 Supported Talents – helping to aid training, competition and performance off Island.

Creativity, diversity and passion
From ball sports to horse riding and dog agility to dance, the breadth of talent supported this year reflects the creativity, diversity and passion the Island community has across a plethora of disciplines.

Whether it’s rugby players striving for the top of the league table, dancers dazzling on national stages, or athletes on the pathway to representing Great Britain, 2025 has been full of success and moments of community pride.

Here are just some of the achievements of Islanders supported by Red Funnel’s Proud to Support programme this year:

Island Ambassadors – showcasing local talent
Sixteen Ambassadors represented the Island on national and international stages this year. Indie band Coach Party released their second album Caramel, toured the UK and Europe, and recorded at the iconic Maida Vale studios.

Freestyle dance sisters Isabel and Jasmine Dominey shone at the British Championships, with Isabel placing Top 3 in two solo categories and Jasmine reaching the semi-finals at both British and World Championships.

Rising darts star Keegan Brown claimed victory at the Modus Super Series and finished in the world’s top 20 on the PDC Challenge Tour.

Kickboxer Dominic Marsh earned a semi-pro title fight and represented Team GB at the World Championships in Abu Dhabi.

Junior archer Summer Chambers claimed multiple titles, including Junior Hampshire Champion.

Together, these Ambassadors have helped showcase the Island’s talent far beyond its shores, proving that local stars can make a national and global impact.

Supported Teams – building community spirit
Twelve Island teams benefited from support in 2025, enabling them to compete consistently and strengthen community ties. Ventnor Rugby Club fulfilled every fixture across its 1st and 2nd XVs – a rare feat in Hampshire rugby – and started the new season leading both leagues.

East Cowes Victoria Athletic FC secured promotion to the Wessex Premier Division after a dramatic play-off win, while the Isle of Wight Squash team celebrated national success with team gold medals and regional titles.

Competitive equestrian team Vectis Riding Club qualified for multiple national championships, with members achieving podium finishes and even a British Para National Champion title.

These combined achievements underline the vital role Island teams play in fostering community pride and keeping competitive sport thriving locally.

Supported Talents – on the pathway to success
Fifteen budding talents outside of the main Ambassador programme also received support this year, covering everything from ballet and dressage to tennis and bowls.

Dressage competitor Natalie Brougham qualified for two Area Dressage Festivals and British Championships next year, while bowls player Jude Beaman had a successful season, finishing runner up in the Balcomb Trophy against competitors from across Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire – also playing in the National Finals alongside his brother Max.

These successes highlight the determination of talented Islanders and the exciting paths they’re beginning to forge.

Collins: We’re proud to support local talents in their pursuit of excellence
Reflecting on the year, Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, said,

“It’s been inspiring to see so many Islanders achieve incredible things this year. From grassroots clubs to emerging stars, their passion and commitment really shone through.
“While the hard work is all theirs, we’re proud to support local talents in their pursuit of excellence and it is a real privilege to do so, whether that’s getting teams to fixtures or supporting young performers as they take their next steps.
“We hope to continue this successful sponsorship programme for years to come, supporting as many local people on their journey to the top as we can. We look forward to announcing a brand-new cohort of Island Ambassadors, Supported Teams and Talents for 2026 soon.”

Find out more
For further information on Red Funnel’s Proud to Support initiative, including Island ambassadors, supported teams and talent, please visit the website.

Red Funnel’s Supported Ambassadors 2025