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HAVE I GOT NEWS FOR YOU? BRIAN BLESSED SUPPORTS ISLE OF WIGHT WALKING FESTIVAL, 8-23 MAY 2010

Walkers on Tennyson Trail - Isle of Wight

The UK’s biggest walking festival returns in 2010 with one of the UK’s biggest personalities – Brian Blessed.

Brian Blessed, who recently caused a sensation when he chaired the BBCs satirical news show, Have I Got News for You, will be sharing his inspiring stories of ascending Mount Everest with visitors at a one-man show during the Isle of Wight Walking festival, which next year returns with more great themed walks than ever before.

The two-week event is organised by the Isle of Wight Council and comprises over 300 walks aimed at participants of all ages and ability.  All walks are themed and celebrate the Island’s distinct landscape, history and culture making the event ideal for those who want to learn more about the holiday isle while keeping fit and healthy. 

Known for his trademark loud, booming voice, Brian Blessed has become as famous for his adventures as his acting and has a love of mountaineering.  His madcap antics on Have I Got News for You left team captains, comedian Paul Merton and Private Eye editor Ian Hislop speechless, especially the hilarious story about his toilet drama at 26,000 feet while climbing Everest! 

Isle of Wight Council events organiser, Elaine Cesar, said:  “We were delighted when Brian agreed to appear on the Island in support of the walking festival.

If his performance on Have I Got News for You is anything to go by, visitors are in for a fun evening and a fitting finale to the 12th year of the festival, which last year attracted over 22,500 participants from across the UK.”

An Evening with Brian Blessed will take place on Friday 21 May 2010 at Medina Theatre, Newport, Isle of Wight.  Tickets priced £17.50 (£15 Concessions) can be obtained by calling the theatre Box Office on 01983 527020, or book on-line at www.medinatheatre.co.uk

Further information about the Isle of Wight Walking Festival – 8 to 23 May 2010 - visit www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk