Double Success for Fishbourne at the Isle of Wight Best Kept Village Awards 2026
Fishbourne Parish Council is celebrating a remarkable achievement after winning both the Medium Sized Village category and the overall Isle of Wight Best Kept Village Award 2026.
The prestigious awards presentation took place on Thursday, 17th September at the Wilberforce Hall in Brighstone, hosted by Best Kept Village Award (BKVA) Chairwoman Ann Evans.
A Complete Community Effort
Fishbourne is judged as a whole parish – encompassing Fishbourne village along with areas of Wootton within its boundaries, including Kite Hill, Firestone Copse Road, Firestone Glade, Ashlake Farm Lane, and Barge Lane. The judges gave special mention to:
- The overall appearance of the entire parish.
- The creative re-use of the local phone box as a community “little library”.
The Chairman of Fishbourne Parish Council (Cllr Ed Hopper) highlighted that the success belongs to the entire community, offering sincere thanks to:
- Local Volunteers: Everyone who takes part in the bi-annual Parish Spruce Up Days.
- Parish Councillors: Past and present members who support community upkeep.
- Local Maintenance Support: Dave at DT Ground Care for managing floral planters, and Steve, IWC Public Realm Officer, for keeping the parish clean and tidy.
- Parish Clerk: Special recognition was given to Parish Clerk Katie for her conscientiousness and hard work, which was specifically acknowledged by BKVA Chairwoman Ann Evans during the presentation.
Inspiring Words – Future Plans
Following the awards ceremony, attendees heard an inspiring address from High Sheriff Nigel Hartley MBE on the value of loving where you live and working together to enhance the local environment.
Fishbourne Parish Council is continuing its commitment to keeping the area looking its best, with the next Parish Spruce Up Day scheduled for Saturday, 7th November (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM), followed by complimentary refreshments at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club for all volunteers.
Other 2026 Category Winners Announced:
- Hamlet: Atherfield Green
- Small Village: Wellow
- Large Village: Rookley
- Extra Large Village: Bembridge
- Overall Winner: Fishbourne