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Thousands of walkers took part in this year's Isle of Wight Walking Festival, including hikers from as far away as Canada, New Zealand and Australia.
The UK's biggest walking festival, organised by Isle of Wight Council and sponsored by Ordnance Survey drew to a close on Sunday 24 May, following the final walk of the festival, a spooky stroll through Shanklin Old Village, learning about smugglers and buried treasure with local ghost expert Marc Tuckey.
This year's festival boasted the largest amount of walks yet, ranging from a magical Princess Walk for the very young to a gruelling 24 hour walk around the Island with professional walker Jill Green. With over 300 walks to choose from, walkers were spoilt for choice and weren't put off by the changeable weather conditions experienced during the 16 day festival.
It got off to a blazing start with the shortest walk of the festival, a mere 20 feet long. The fire walk saw over 30 people walk across a bed of hot coals to raise money for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and Barely Born Appeal.
In contrast to walking on fire, the Walk on Water walk sponsored by Red Funnel attracted 100 walkers. The group travelled by ferry to Southampton from East Cowes where they were met by four guides to 'Walk the Southampton Walls'. Back on the Island, the famous speed dating walk attracted record numbers with 110 people taking part. Thirty love matches were found during the walk and many have contacted each other since the walk and started dating so watch this space.
Away from the Island's footpaths and trails, this year's special guest speaker was vice president of the Rambler's Association and well known TV personality, Janet Street Porter. She captivated an audience at Medina Theatre, speaking of her love of walking in her own unique style. The journalist shared many stories from her travels around New Zealand along with her views on walking poles!
Elaine Cesar, Isle of Wight Council Events Officer who organises the festival said: "The Isle of Wight Walking Festival is growing in popularity year on year and attracting visitors from around the world. We work hard to ensure our walks appeal to all ages and abilities and offer an insight into the Island's rich culture while exploring its natural beauty."
"Work is already well underway for October's Walking Weekend, so if you have a favourite walk you would like us to include, please get in touch with me." Anyone with suggestions for new walks should contact Elaine Cesar at Isle of Wight Council on 01983 821000 or by e-mailing [email protected]