A FOUNDING trustee of a beloved Isle of Wight theatre has died.

Anthony Wood, known as Tony, passed away on Thursday, October 3, at St Mary's Hospital, Newport.

He was a founding trustee, finance director and deputy managing director of Shanklin Theatre and Community Trust, with unbroken service over many years.

Tony, of Shanklin, was also finance director and deputy managing director for Shanklin Theatre Ltd, as well as Shanklin Performing Arts Centre CIC.

Read more: Saved Shanklin Theatre celebrates a decade of success

He was one of the original Friends Of Shanklin Theatre (FOST) members, who successfully campaigned to save Shanklin Theatre from demolition.

His work with the Theatres Trust to gain Grade II-listed building status for the theatre, was key in the campaign.

Grade ll-status was awarded in February 2010, which consequently halted the Isle of Wight Council’s option for demolition.

Originally from Oxford, Tony moved to the Island in 1976. 

A keen football fan, he supported Oxford United and was involved with Ryde Saints Football Club.

Read more: Co-op gifts £76,000 to Isle of Wight causes including Shanklin Theatre

Tony spent his working life in publishing, bookselling and insurance, before semi-retiring in 1995, when he joined the Isle of Wight Society for the Blind —  firstly as a volunteer, then on a part-time basis until full retirement in 2007.

In 2001, he was elected a parent governor at the former Ryde High School (now Ryde Academy), and also became chairman of the Parent Teachers’ Association.

He held this position until being appointed vice-chairman of the school's governing body in 2005, then elected as chairman in March 2008, a position he held until August 2011.

Friend and theatre colleague, Vic Farrow, Shanklin Theatre's chairman and a director, was saddened by Tony's loss.

"He was a good friend and we worked very closely together at the theatre for many years, and had a great relationship," said Vic.

"The one thing the theatre will always be grateful to him for, was achieving Grade II listing for the building. It's something we can never forget, because without that, we wouldn't have stopped the council turning it into flats.

"Sadly, he was housebound after Covid and remained housebound, which took its toll on him."

Vic explained that without achieving Grade II status, the theatre would not have taken off like it did and be the success it is today.

"That was his achievement and legacy. We all pleased with how well the theatre is doing and Tony would want it to carry on," Vic added.

Another spokesperson for the trust, paid tribute to Tony.

"He was deservedly very proud of his involvement with the theatre, playing a significant part in creating the legacy of a successful and well-loved theatre for current and future generations to enjoy.

"Tony’s departure leaves a huge void in the theatre and he will be sorely missed."