Red Funnel has announced the Island’s very own Paddy McHugh as the first recipient of a brand-new tourism award.
A pivotal member within the local community, event organiser and Chair of the Newport Carnival and Community Events Association Paddy Mchugh has been named the Isle of Wight’s Tourism Hero for 2024.
Following the Isle of Wight Awards in November, award winners and members of the Island community were asked to nominate their Tourism Hero for 2024, with Paddy standing out as the clear and deserved winner of this honourary title.
For over 40 years, Paddy has been at the heart of local Island events, from Sunday morning car boot sales to colourful carnivals and running his own events popular with locals and visitors alike.
Paddy also volunteers his time to support major events such as the Isle of Wight Garlic Festival, Cowes Week and the Royal IOW County Show. He also organises his own popular community event, Riverfest, together with support from the Newport Carnival and Community Events Association.
In addition to his already full schedule, Paddy recently stepped in to continue the Isle of Wight Classic Car Show following the sad passing of friend and event organiser Vic Gallucci.
Speaking about the award win, Paddy has said:
“Being named the Island’s Tourism Hero is a really wonderful thing. And not just for me, it reflects the hard work of the teams behind every event we work on, from Newport Carnival to Riverfest, the Classic Car show and everything in between. Never in a million years did I think I’d have been given this title.”
Lee Hudson, Red Funnel’s Commercial Director, was pleased to meet with Paddy and the voluntary members of the Newport Carnival and Community Events Association in East Cowes recently, presenting the group with the Tourism Hero award, certificate and a Christmas Hamper from Island Foods.
“We are incredibly proud to present our inaugural Tourism Hero award to Paddy and his team of volunteers as part of our annual Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards.
“This distinctive award was created to celebrate extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond, and Paddy truly embodies this spirit through his dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work. His team of dedicated volunteers have made a significant impact on the Island’s tourism experience through the many events they bring to life, and we are delighted to shine a spotlight on their inspiring contribution.”
Asked what drives him to offer so much to support Isle of Wight tourism and the wider community, Paddy said:
“The Island is a special place and my home, and it needs brilliant events to keep people coming back and for locals to enjoy. I’m just blessed to be able to do what I do, and I hope I do it well.
“What also inspires me to do what I do are the brilliant people working on events behind the scenes. I have an amazing team I work with, from the traders to our social media man Shane, all the stewards and the volunteers here to collect the award here with me today.”
Wight Design