The centre of Ryde will be buzzing with dance and music this coming Saturday, 12th September 2026 from 12.30 – 4.30pm.
It’s all happening at Network Ryde/St Thomas’s Church, St Thomas’s Street (off Lind Street) – and entry is free.
An afternoon of entertainment in aid of the Air Ambulance serving the Isle of Wight and its people – a service that’s only kept going by public donations. This lively event features Island dance groups and musicians who are giving their services free.
A free afternoon of music and dance
The lineup of events on Saturday includes musician Glenn Koppany, the delightful Shree children’s dance group, singer-songwriters Ross and Brian, the well-known East Cowes Shanty Band, the exciting Aquarius Dance Group, Aime Gulliver, musician/singer Shane Dillon, and concluding with blues/folk duo 2-Bit.
Refreshments will be available inside the hall.
Raffle and a special art draw
A well-stocked raffle to raise funds will include numerous attractive items donated by individuals and Island businesses.
Plus, the original painting used for the event’s leaflet and donated by Bembridge artist Alex Williams will be won in a separate draw.
The results of both the raffle and the draw are to be announced at the end of the afternoon.
Why the Air Ambulance matters to the Island
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance is literally a lifesaver that all of us on the Island understandably cherish – without it that strip of water would be a deadly barrier for seriously ill patients getting the attention they need.
One patient’s story
One patient, Behroze Gandhy, lives in Ryde and she is crystal clear that without the Air Ambulance flying her to Southampton General this Easter she would not be alive today.
The organisers, including Behroze, hope many Islanders and visitors will flock to Network Ryde for the Air Ambulance Heroes Fundraiser on Saturday and make it the success it deserves to be.
News shared by Jim on behalf of the fundraiser. Ed
