The International Island Games were founded in the Isle of Man in 1985 and today include 25 member islands in, or associated with, the nine sovereign nations of Canada, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Greece, Norway, Spain, Sweden and the UK,  plus the Caribbean.

The Islands come together every two years to compete in friendly competition in a range of up to 14 sports chosen by the host Island from an approved list of 18.

Since 1999 NatWest has been the title sponsor for the Island Games which have become one of the largest international multi-sport events in the world, behind the Commonwealth Games and Olympics.

During the summer of 2007, the Isle of Wight secured its bid to host the NatWest Island Games 2011 which will be held on 25 June – 1 July.    Around 4000 athletes and officials plus several supporters clubs are expected to attend.

The NatWest Island Games 2011 has received the support of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games 2012, who will be using the games as a testbed for sports officials involved in the Olympic sports programme.

For more information regarding the NatWest Island Games, visit the International Island Games Association website at www.islandgames.net