Accessibility features at a popular Isle of Wight beach were officially unveiled at an opening ceremony on Wednesday (July 24).

The milestone event marked a step forward in ensuring that everyone, regardless of mobility challenges, can enjoy the beautiful five-mile stretch of Ryde beach.

Born from heartfelt feedback from wheelchair users, Ryde Town Council (RTC) researched ways of making the location more accessible.

Considering Ryde’s unique shifting sands, the decision was made to implement a 200m boardwalk, handcrafted by NaShers, a dedicated men’s shed group in Seaview, with help from young people at Network Ryde.

In addition to the boardwalk, a range of equipment has been introduced to make beach strolls and dips in the sea accessible to everyone.

The collection includes beach and sea wheelchairs, a sand rollator, and equipment provided by the lifeguards, all of which are available free of charge through an online booking system.

A major upgrade accompanying these provisions is the seasonal Changing Places unit, found near the existing toilet facilities at Eastern Gardens.

The facility has a ceiling hoist, changing bench, shower and accessible amenities.

At the opening event, RTC projects officer Annette Johansson-Steed, who spearheaded the campaign, thanked stakeholders and sponsors.

Speaking to the County Press, Annette said that beach accessibility was one of the first projects she started when starting her role two years ago.

Now that it is done, Annette says it is “an amazing feeling,” adding that she has “just been cruising on a high.”

The project raised £47,000 in funding, which included £10k from Sporting England, £5k from Diametric, £5k from Visit IOW, a £5k anonymous donation and £27k raised via the public Crowdfunder.

Speakers at the event included Will Myles from Visit IW and Neil Chapman from Hovertravel, who said the project “sets us apart from other locations in the UK,” making us stand out.

Jan Brookes from the Island-based accessibility charity, Isle Access, also made a speech about how her team had been campaigning for an accessible beach on the Island since 2016.

Ryde Mayor Richard May and High Sheriff Graham Biss were on hand to cut the ribbon at the formal opening ceremony.