gazette the isle of wight
REPORTING ISLAND NEWS
MAN CRITICAL AFTER CRASH
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FREE! Friday January 22, 2010 Issue 49
NEWS Hope for Gracie
Mum launches an appeal to raise funds for twin daughters operation
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FEATURE Kelly’s on Fire
A 28-YEAR-OLD Cowes man is being treated for life-threatening injuries after being involved in a serious car accident on the Smallbrook Road, Ryde. The driver was travelling in his silver MR2 sports car towards the Great Preston Road in Ryde when it struck the crash barrier and left the road at about 2pm on Tuesday.
How the fire service is increasing its diversity
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LET’S CONTINUE CAR SHARING SCHEME DURING the recent spell of bad weather, many Islanders have pulled together to share lifts to reach their place of work. The council is encouraging people to consider continuing car-sharing to reduce carbon emissions and ease congestion on the Island’s roads. A dedicated website is run by the council to help connect people making the same journeys. The local authority is working with partner organisations including the IW College and Chamber of Commerce to promote the scheme. Carshare Wight is part of the number one online car-share network – liftshare – and enables people to quickly and easily find a car-share match completely free of charge. Cllr Edward Giles, IW council cabinet member for the environment and transport said: “The recent cold weather has shown what a great sense of community spirit the Island has. By linking together to share journeys people can do their bit for the environment while sharing travel costs.” The facility is free and to register you can log on to www.carsharewight.com
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
ISLANDERS TEETH TREAT MORE than 12,000 Islanders are set to benefit from NHS dental treatment following the opening of two new practices in Freshwater and Ryde. Both were officially opened recently, and represent a joint development between the Island’s NHS and Integrated Dental Holdings, although they have been operating since September. There are three dental practitioners working from the practice in Cross Street Dental Centre, Ryde and two dental practitioners at Whitecross Dental Care in Freshwater. Caroline Morris, Senior Commissioning Manager for Primary Care at the Island’s NHS said: “I am delighted that we are making a significant difference to the health of Island residents. Over the past four years we have invested more than £4million in dental services for people on the Island, which has almost doubled the level of NHS dental provision here. “In 2006 we were reaching only 26 per cent of the Island population; we are now reaching 50 per cent and are aiming for a further 10 per cent in the next year.” She continued: “It is really
important for the public to know how to access NHS Dentistry and who to contact should they require advice or emergency treatment. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Dental Helpline can provide information and advice on all aspects of NHS dental care.” Anyone experiencing dental pain and is not receiving regular care or currently undergoing a course of treatment with a dentist, can contact the Hampshire and IW Dental Helpline on 0845 050 8345, who may be able to offer an emergency appointment for which NHS charges and exemptions are applicable. The Dental Helpline can also advise which dental practices on the Island are taking new patients. Commenting on this latest joint venture with the Island’s NHS, Richard Crook, Head of Integration at Integrated Dental Holdings said: “Whitecroft Dental Care, on behalf of Integrated Dental Holdings Ltd are delighted to have worked with the Primary Care Trust to develop and deliver the two NHS dental facilities. “We are proud of the staff and clinicians working in the two facilities and look forward to
delivering good quality NHS dental care to the local people in Ryde and Freshwater.” Barry Cockcroft, Department of Health Chief Dental Officer said: “I am so pleased to be able to open two new dental surgeries
on the Island. As a place which has historically, not had a great dental provision, the opening of these new practices really is a testament to the hard work of the IW Primary Care Trust and Integrated Dental Holdings.”
UNEMPLOYMENT UP UNEMPLOYMENT on the Island is still on the increase, and remains higher than the national average. Figures released for December revealed that claimants for jobseekers’
allowance stood at 3,565, which represents 4.5 per cent of the population, compared to 3,411 (4.3 per cent) in November. The numbers were up by more than 1,000 on the same period in 2008.
The Island figures were disappointing bearing in mind the fact that the southeast area average remained at 3 per cent in December while unemployment nationwide stood at 4.1 per cent.
FOR THE RECORD
IN OUR piece on January 15 entitled “Dougie helps to keep ‘em mobile” there is an incorrect piece of information for which we would like to apologise. In the second paragraph, “Recent legislation from Health and Safety has meant
that mobility scooters can no longer be carried on coaches bringing holidaymakers down on the Island” is incorrect. There is no Health and Safety Executive legislation along these lines at all. There is no health and safety
legislation which would prohibit mobility scooters being carried on coaches. It is possible that individual coach companies have their own rules on this, but it does not come from Health and Safety legislation.
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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NEWS
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HELP GRACIE TO WALK
LITTLE Gracie-May from Shanklin is a bubbly bright two-year-old who loves playing with her twin sister Evie. But sadly she was born with cerebral palsy and without an operation in America she will be confined to a wheelchair. In a bid to raise the money for the trip and the operation her mother Mandy Fuller has set up a Facebook page, ‘Please Help Gracie-May to Walk’, and visitors can donate money by PayPal or directly into an account. She asks that people donate just £1 and pass the message on. “Gracie can’t walk and can only roll or commando crawl. But her cerebral palsy only effects her physically, in all four limbs although more so in her legs,” explained Mandy. “Her toes have increased tone – tightness in all the muscles and tendons – and her ankles don’t bend so if she tried to stand she’d be on the end of her toes. “Hard plastic splints on Gracie’s legs have been trying to stretch her tendons to uncurl her feet – which have improved them slightly – but she has to wear them day and night.” Mandy went into labour at only 16 weeks with the twins and had to be kept in hospital
BY JO MACAULAY until she was 28 weeks when she had an emergency caesarian. “A twin to twin transfusion meant that Gracie had been getting too much of everything,” said Mandy. “After she was born she was poorly for a long time. She was in Southampton neonatal unit for three weeks and in St. Mary’s for a further seven weeks. Then we discovered about a year ago that she had cerebral palsy.” A selective dorsal rhizotomy is the operation needed and it is only performed at one American hospital, the St Louis Children’s Hospital, in Missouri, by Doctor T.S. Park. The operation involves cutting some of the sensory nerve fibres that come from the muscles and enter the spinal chord. During the operation each of the dorsal roots is divided into 3-5 rootlets and each rootlet is stimulated electrically. By examining the electromyographic responses from muscles in the lower part of the body the surgical team can identify the rootlets that are causing the condition. The operation is identical to the one recently performed
upon Charlotte Wakefield, from Corfe Mullen, as portrayed on local television recently. Charlotte and her family travelled to St Louis for Dr Park’s operation and she can now stand on her own feet. The Fuller family needs at least £40,000 to pay for the operation, physiotherapy and for the month’s stay in hospital that Gracie-May will need. “She’s a good candidate for the operation according to the criteria and they’ve had a 100 per cent success rate so far. Apparently it is better if the baby was premature,” explained Mandy who has only heard the good news this week. “She’s very chatty – you can’t shut her up. The physical side is so frustrating for her,” said Mandy. “Everyone thinks she’s going to be in a wheelchair for the rest of her life but I’m not prepared to settle for that.” To donate towards GracieMay’s operation visit the Facebook page ‘Please Help Gracie-May Walk’, donate to PAYPAL= MAND3102@ AOL.COM or call Mandy on 867231. A fundraising auction will be held at the Mad Cow in Shanklin next month and a treasurer’s account with the Halifax is in the process of being set up.
TWILIGHT IN VENTNOR
Hollie Carpenter with Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson TWILIGHT co-stars Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart are ready to confirm their long rumoured off-screen romance. The pair, who spent New Year together at the Bonchurch Inn in Bonchurch on the Island, have so far remained tight-lipped over their relationship. But it is now thought that the two actors will go public when they return to Canada to film the final installment of the vampire saga, Breaking
Dawn, later this year. “Rob and Kristen are very happy, and everyone that’s part of the franchise is so happy for them,” a source told The Gazette. “They don’t feel the need to hide it anymore.” Meanwhile, Hollie Carpenter from Ventnor – the 13-year-old fan who spotted the pair over New Year – has spoken in more detail about her meeting. “They were outside the Somerfield store on Pier Street with what looked like
Robert’s friends,” Holly said. “They were all just talking and laughing and seemed to be having a good time. Although they were with a group of friends, Rob and Kristen walked off together. “I’m not actually that keen on them, but I just wanted to have my photo taken with some famous people,” admitted Holly. Rob and Kristen have been romantically linked ever since the first Twilight film was released in 2008.
Gracie-May Fuller
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
RARE SEWING MACHINE STOLEN IN SHANKLIN
CARISBROOKE HIGH CELEBRATE RECORD
CARISBROOKE High School has just celebrated another set of record-breaking results for the GCSE express maths programme. The January results combined with the previous summer entries saw Carisbrooke students secure 13 A*’s and 23 A’s. Head of Maths, Mr. Mark Williams, established the programme for gifted and talented mathematicians three years ago and since then 83 A*/A’s have been gained by early entry
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students. Mr. Williams said: “I am delighted with the outcomes for our most gifted mathematicians, the vast majority of whom go on to study A level Maths, which is now one of our biggest and best A level subjects.” Headteacher David Jeapes congratulated all of the students and staff for their hard work saying: “This is fantastic news on top of yesterday’s announcement by the DCSF that Carisbrooke High School remains the
top performing state school on the Isle of Wight at both GCSE and A level.” Year 11 Maths student Sheonagh Woodford said: “My teacher predicted me an A* and I didn’t think I could achieve it. I’m so happy I did, but only due to the great teachers and their support.” Adam Doggett, also a Year 11 Maths student, said: “I have always wanted to achieve highly and get the best grades I possibly can, so I am really happy that I have managed to get the A*.”
POLICE are appealing for information after a rare miniature sewing machine was reported missing. Officers are investigating a burglary at the shop ‘The Stitches Coven’ in Shanklin High Street sometime between 5pm on Wednesday, January 6 and 6.30am on Thursday, January 7. A shop window was damaged and the ‘Wilcox and Gibbs’ sewing machine was removed from a display at the front of the store. The machine is described as twelve inches long, six inches wide and eight inches high. The shop owners have told police this sewing machine is a collectors’ item because it is one of only a few in this condition. Investigating officer PC Paul McPartlin, from the Shanklin Safer Neighbourhoods team, said: “We are appealing for anyone with information about the sewing machine’s whereabouts or who notices it for sale second hand to contact the police. “Routine house-to-house
and forensic enquiries are also being carried out in the local area.” If you have information contact Shanklin Police
Station by phoning 101. Information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
WARNING ON ALCOHOL WITH many people resolving to cut down on their alcohol intake this January, residents on the Isle of Wight have just over one week left to sign a manifesto looking at how problems linked to drinking too much should be tackled. NHS Isle of Wight is backing the Big Drink Debate manifesto, at www. bigdrinkdebateSE.org.uk/ manifesto, which outlines a vision to address alcoholrelated health and social issues in the South East. Drinking too much increases the risk of health problems such as liver disease, heart attacks, strokes and poor mental health, and NHS Isle of Wight is concerned about the growing number of people on the Island who are experiencing such harms. The manifesto is based on local opinions captured from research and at public debates, which took place in autumn 2009. It highlights the need to: · Support police forces in tackling anti-social behaviour and alcohol related crimes · Work to reduce family breakdown and domestic abuse linked to alcohol
· Explore whether minimum prices and restrictions on cheap alcohol sales should be introduced · Make adult drinkers of all ages aware of health risks from drinking above guidelines, not just binge drinkers · Help employers advise staff on potential effects of their drinking Heather Lovell, Head of Public Health Strategy and Partnerships at NHS Isle of Wight said: “The manifesto raises important issues which affect us all, from alcoholrelated crime to health risks and family breakdown. Registering support for the points you agree with is an opportunity for everyone on the Island to influence what action professional organisations take next. We were keen to sign up, and hope other organisations and local people will do the same today.” Professor John Newton, Regional Public Health Director for NHS South Central, which is behind the project, said: “Cutting down on how much we drink is on many of our minds at this time of year. This is a timely
opportunity for people of the South East to say how they feel we should all address problems linked to excessive drinking. I call on your readers to sign up and comment on the manifesto, and to share it with friends and colleagues.” The manifesto is open for people across the South East to sign up to until 31 January, following which professionals will use the points with most support to inform alcohol campaigns and policy. To sign up to the manifesto, go to www. bigdrinkdebateSE.org.uk/ manifesto, where a full Big Drink Debate report on the research and public debates is also available.
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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NEWS
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POLICE PROBING CRASH
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PARAMEDICS, police and fire service staff worked to free the driver from the tangled wreckage after the car ended up on its side in a ditch. Firefighters had to use specialist hydraulic cutting equipment to free the man. It is thought that a passing fire officer Trevor Moyce a station manager from Ryde may have played a critical part in the rescue by giving the driver emergency first aid before his colleagues and the ambulance arrived. Police are still investigating how the accident happened and have called upon a crash investigator from Winchester to help piece together the
BY JASON KAY incident. The man was taken to St Mary’s hospital in Newport, where his injuries and condition are described as life threatening. Sgt Paul Bailey of the Shanklin roads policing unit said: “It was a one-vehicle collision. The vehicle seems to have left the road for no explicable reason. We are trying to piece together what happened and we are collecting statements from drivers who were behind the vehicle before it left the road.” A St Mary’s Hospital spokesman said: “The man is
in the High Dependence ITU unit at the hospital.” Smallbrook Lane was closed, with diversions for
“The vehicle seems to have left the road for no explicable reason.” over six hours whilst police examined the scene A spokesman for Hampshire and IW police said: “This is being treated as potentially life-threatening so they are investigating the scene and that can take quite a long time. “The accident involved
one vehicle, a silver Toyota MR2, which has somehow left the road and the driver is seriously injured. Witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact WPC Peni Houghton at the Shanklin Roads Policing unit, quoting Operation Lamda.” Dean Hayward from IW Fire and Rescue Service said: “Two appliances from Newport and Ryde Fire stations along with the Crash Rescue tender from Newport attended the road traffic collision involving one vehicle. “One casualty was released using specialist-cutting equipment after the vehicle stuck a tree and came to rest in a ditch. Fire crews worked with paramedics in moving
the casualty from car. “The scene was made safe using one hose reel, dry powder extinguisher and small tools.” Anyone who witnessed the smash can contact police on 101 or the anonymous
Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111. The Gazette has since learnt that the man was transferred to the specialist neurological unit at Southampton General Hospital.
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
OPEN VERDICT RECORDED ON NEWPORT TEENAGER
Luke Cowan
AN OPEN verdict was recorded at the inquest of local teenager Luke Cowan (17) by Assistant Deputy Coroner Hugh Calloway at Newport Coroners Court on Wednesday. Luke was found in dense undergrowth in Shanklin by a couple walking their dog on September 1 after going missing in June last year. A post mortem confirmed that hanging was the cause of death. Newport coroner’s court heard that in his jacket pocket was a service sheet
from his uncle Sammy’s funeral that Luke had recently attended and to whom he was very close. Luke’s mum Michelle Knight said that it was brought up at the inquest that Luke had taken acid and also legal herbal highs and that she felt that the herbal highs had pushed Luke over the edge. Toxicology reports could not be carried out on the body because of the length of time before it was found. Both Luke’s parents, Larry Cowan and Michele
Knight who sat on opposite sides of the court, attended the inquest. Daughter Chantelle and Luke’s brothers supported Michele. Michele Knight said: “As a mother I want to fight on to educate people on the dangers of legal highs. I still believe that legal highs are affecting a lot of people on the Island. When Luke took the legal high it knocked his balance totally. I believe the legal high pushed him over the edge and finished
NEW COST-CUT DRUGS
AROUND 2,000 Islanders currently taking tablets to combat high blood pressure have been given alternative medication, purely as part of the Government’s cost-cutting measures. The Gazette has learned that general practitioners across the Island have been told to give their patients the cheaper drugs, although we emphasise that as yet there have only been isolated cases of the new medicine not being as effective. Virtually all Islanders who were prescribed ‘Lacidipine’ for high blood pressure problems have now been switched to tablets called ‘Amlodipine’. We understand that patients taking
a 4mg Lacidipine tablet are now being prescribed a 10mg Amlodipine tablet. The Gazette has also discovered that Lacidipine is a ‘product of, and is manufactured by agreement with’ drugs giants Glaxo, whereas Amlodipine comes from a firm less well known, Actavis, based in Barnstable. A source admitted: “The switch from one to the other is all about cost-cutting. The fact remains that Amlodipine is cheaper and GPs have been told to change patients to that medication.” The source added: “Both drugs are supposed to have the same effect, and generally that has been the case. But a minority of
patients have not got on so well with the newly-prescribed drug, and have requested to be put back on to the original one.” The Gazette can only suggest that if any of our readers taking
medication for high blood pressure tablets and have been switched from one product to another, and are not entirely satisfied with the outcome, they should contact their own GP.
him off after he had taken the acid. “I did try to try and say thank you to the husband and wife that found Luke. I have spoken to them on the phone but missed them at court. “I am sad that Luke took his life but I am happy that it is all over and hope that some good can come from his death. On Christmas day we went to where Luke was found and put a cross that Luke brother James made and spent some time there.”
HAITI APPEAL
THE ISLAND’S British Red Cross is appealing for donations to help raise funds for the millions of people caught up in the Haiti earthquake. Along with other members of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), the charity is raising funds to get medical equipment, clean water, food and shelter to those affected by the disaster on January 12, which has left millions of people in desperate need. Tesco in Ryde has given the Red Cross permission to hold in store collections until Saturday January 24 Lesley Insley, territory fundraising manager with the charity, said: “Tesco has given us a fantastic opportunity to raise money to enable us to help people in dire need. “We need lots of local people to help us with donations so we can increase our support to Haiti.” Anyone who can spare a few hours of their time to help with the collections or wish to donate should contact Lesley by calling 01983 537816 or emailing Linsley@redcross. org.uk. To donate to the DEC Haiti appeal visit www.dec.org.uk or call 0370 6060 900.
COUNCIL WEBSITE CHARITY BALL AMONG THE BEST
THE IW Council’s website, www. iwight.com, has become a finalist in the annual Hantsweb Awards. The council is one of three finalists in the Best Public Service website 2009 category, and is the third year in a row the council’s website has made it to the final three, with the local authority winning the title in both 2008 and 2007. It has already beaten off competition from almost 100 other sites that have been nominated. IW Council Cabinet member responsible for customer service and communications, Tim Hunter-Henderson, said: “The Hantsweb Awards are a well known award scheme that attracts a vast number of entries each year, including many from
the Isle of Wight. “It is very pleasing to the see iwight.com become a finalist again, as this demonstrates the site is one of the best at providing information and services to Island residents and visitors. “Considering it had a complete re-design in 2009, it’s already quite an achievement to be in the final three.” Between January 5-11, www. iwight.com registered 2.3million page views and recorded 175,000 visitors, as people logged on to find information on schools, roads and other services that were affected by the adverse weather. A number of other Isle of Wight based websites have also made it to the final in several other categories. The winners will be announced next month.
AN EVENING of music, dancing, fine food and maybe a little romance is being planned by the Chairman of the council to raise funds for his chosen charities. Cllr Arthur Taylor and his wife Doreen are hosting a Charity Valentine Ball on Friday 12 February 2010 at Cowes Yacht Haven. The black tie event includes a three course dinner, music by the Bob Howarth Big Band and auction and raffle in aid of the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and Haylands Farm. Tickets are priced at £35 and include a drink on arrival. They can be booked individually or as a table of ten. Cllr Arthur Taylor said: “I hope people will join us on what promises to be a splendid evening. I have been supporting the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and Haylands Farm for some time now and both are very worthwhile charities making a real difference on the Isle of Wight.” Tickets are available from the council’s events team, call 823525 or 823070 for details.
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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NEWS
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LAKE WOMAN TRAGEDY
AN 87-YEAR-OLD man was arrested, but later released without charge, after the body of his wife was discovered in the garden of their Lake home. Christopher Johns, the husband of the late Celia Johns, was driven away by police officers last Saturday morning to help with inquiries. The three-bedroom detached house where he lived was also sealed off, and an incident room was later set up at Ryde police station. The body of Mrs. Johns, 86, was found at the property in Manor Road shortly after 7am on Saturday morning after
BY JASON KAY paramedics and a police major crime team, led by Detective Chief Inspector Pete Gallagher arrived at the scene. Mr. Johns, who used to be a keen cyclist, was kept in custody at Newport police station and questioned for over 12 hours while teams of forensic officers carried out a finger tip search of the property where the couple lived. Officers spent most of the day removing various items in brown paper
bags and plastic boxes as a policeman stood guard by a tape which partly surrounded the house. Mr. Johns was later released from custody with no further action after a post mortem carried out at St Mary’s Hospital, Newport. Police revealed that the cause of death was “indeterminable”. Mr. Johns returned home and was being comforted by his daughter, and have asked to be left to grieve in peace. DCI Gallagher said: “We are not in a position to disclose any further circumstances at this time. However, we would like to make it clear that following our investigation, we are
Police standing guard outside the Lake house
satisfied that the sad death of Mrs. Johns is not suspicious.” An inquest was opened by Mr John Matthews, HM Coroner for the Isle of Wight on Wednesday. It revealed that the body of Mrs. Johns, a retired civil servant, was found in the garden by her husband at 7.17am on Saturday, and there were a number of injuries on the body. She had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for a number of years. One close neighbor of Mr. and Mrs. Johns said they were a couple that kept themselves to themselves, and had lived at the house for over 20 years.
ROTARY CHARITY’S RECORD START
SHANKLIN Rotary Club’s annual charity sale reached record-breaking levels during its first two days of trading. Nearly £18,000 was taken in just 48 hours, including more than £10,000 on the opening day, when the sale gets underway this week at Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Shanklin. Now organisers are eagerly anticipating that last year’s total of £38,000 will be beaten by the time the sale ends on Saturday, January 30. Ian Thomas, a Rotary Club committee member and former president, said: “We are delighted at the way things have started. I think it is down to the quality of goods that are on sale this year, particularly the furniture. But there are also many other quality items available, from white goods to clothes, and electrical goods to keep fit equipment. I would say that this is arguably the biggest jumble sale in the south of England!” He added: “I think the record sales over the first couple of days was down to the quality of items
available and the fact that in this economic climate people are spending more wisely, and know they can come along to the sale and pick up some real bargains. We don’t like to set ourselves targets, but on the evidence of the first two days we are hopeful of beating last year’s figure.” Shanklin Rotary Club collect items throughout the year ready for the annual sale, which has been running for more than 20 years. Because of the high demand, there will be a replenishment of stock from their Newport store over the weekend. A second street collection will also be undertaken around Shanklin on Sunday. Mr. Thomas added: “A lot of members give their time and effort to ensure the sale is successful, and all the money raised goes to local, national and international charities, although we try to ensure a lot of the proceeds stay on the Island. The sale is open until January 29 from 10am to 4pm, and on January 30 from 10am to 1pm. It is closed on January 24 and 25 for re-stocking.
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
Andrew Lansley CBE MP talking to A & E staff at St Marys
‘COPTER TO RESCUE
THE COASTGUARD helicopter Rescue 104 based at Lee on Solent was called upon on Wednesday to medivac a nurse and a very sick patient and who is thought to have a brain tumor. The crew flew the sick man from Sea Close in Newport just after 9am to the Lordshill landsite in Southampton where he was transferred by land ambulance to Southampton General Hospital.
JEWELLERY THEFT DETECTIVES are appealing for information after a suspected burglary was reported in Gurnard. A woman aged in her seventies returned to her home address in The Avenue, on the evening of December 18 and took off rings she had been wearing and left them on a table in her lounge. The following day, (December 19) she returned home again to find her patio doors open. The woman contacted police to report her concerns that the jewellery had been stolen around the time she found her patio doors open. Her jewellery is described as a gold band with a gold bumblebee set within a gold shield. Anyone with information is asked to phone Isle of Wight CID on 101 or information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
POLICE TO MERGE
HAMPSHIRE Police are set to merge departments with three other forces in a money-saving move. Police chiefs have agreed to combine three regional units covering witness protection, covert operations and technical support with Sussex, Surrey and Thames Valley. Police say it will provide a better standard of service and make long-term savings for all four forces. The legal agreement - the first of its kind for the police - was signed at a meeting of all four chief constables. Cllr Jacqui Rayment, chairwoman of Hampshire Police Authority, said: “As a result of the four authorities and forces working together, the public should be reassured that the work is being carried out to a higher standard, and that it is being done in a way that saves taxpayers’ money.”
MP ‘IMPRESSED’ THE SHADOW Secretary of State for Health, Andrew Lansley CBE MP, visited the Island this week to learn about the unique way in which the Island’s health service is structured. If the Conservatives win the forthcoming general election, Mr Lansley is expected to take over responsibility for the NHS. Speaking after Mr Lansley had visited St Mary’s Hospital and the new prison hospital facilities, he said: “At St Mary’s the senior management team told me about the challenges they face delivering a wide range of services - many of which are normally only provided for a much larger population. “Here on the Island you have found innovative ways to rise to that challenge which are very impressive. “For instance, there are around 1,200 babies born on the Island each year. I have seen for myself the excellent neo-natal facilities that support the maternity ward and heard how local staff are prepared to work flexibly when required.” Mr Lansley went on to describe the way that local health professionals worked together, as ‘very impressive’ and thanked everyone who was involved in his visit to the Island. “I would like to thank everyone who was involved with the visit and I learnt a great deal. I speak often with Andrew Turner about the Island’s health services, but
BY JAMIE WHITE sadly I didn’t have time to see everything I would have liked to see. I would encourage GPs and other health professionals to get in touch with Andrew and let him know their views to help with our discussions in the future.” Mr Lansley also visited the Chemotherapy Unit, the new Beacon walk-in GP centre and the Accident and Emergency Unit and commented on the IW prison’s health facility. “I was very impressed with what I saw and heard during my visit. I know the Trust is working hard to provide services locally wherever possible and I wanted to see how that is working in practice and see if there are lessons we can use elsewhere. “This was my first visit to a prison health facility and it was extremely informative. It is a false economy to release prisoners at the end of their sentences without making sure that their underlying health problems are dealt with, particularly mental health issues. However, we need to make sure that just because there is a large prison on the Island it does not place an unreasonable burden on the Island’s health service.” When questioned about the future of the Island’s health
services under a Conservative government, Mr Lansley said: “The sick would not pay for Labour’s terrible debt crisis. There are several policies already announced that would benefit the Island. Generally the NHS budget would rise in real terms each year of the next parliament and more specifically, the current funding formula does not properly recognise the extra costs of treating elderly patients. The Island is unusual that there are a high proportion of elderly residents and low-income households – the allocation should recognise that. “I also heard how the council have introduced free home care for the over 80s, ways in which they are helping elderly prisoners and they are also developing
innovative software for groups who need advice. Island MP Andrew Turner responded to Mr Lansley’s comments: “I was very pleased that Andrew Lansley found time to come and see for himself how health services are being delivered on the Island. Clearly there are challenges, but it was seen by health staff not as an opportunity to complain, but to tell him how they have dealt with them and what Government could do to help. “As the Shadow Secretary of State for Health Andrew stressed that it is important to listen to health professionals on the front line – I would very much welcome hearing from local people and I will feed their views back to him.”
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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NEWS
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The A3 at Hindhead suffering from snow
ROOKLEY ‘HERO’ DRIVER
ISLAND bus driver Lawrence Hamer was hailed as a hero of the freeze and is in line for a commendation after he kept his passengers safe during a trip from London to Portsmouth that took 14 hours. Lawrence, from Rookley, set off from London on January 5 hoping to reach Portsmouth before the snow hit. But by 6pm the snow started falling as he reached North Petersfield. “It laid that quickly and we then moved 100 yards in five hours. I spent time with the older passengers keeping them going,” said Lawrence. “There was no food or drink and by 8pm/9pm the snow was eight to nine inches deep. I walked with a passenger towards a service area. It seemed like two miles but it was only half a mile. There was only a McDonalds but the food would have been cold by the time we got back to the coach, so I didn’t have any either – it wouldn’t have been fair. “The other side of the dual carriageway was empty – on
BY JO MACAULAY the odd occasion we’d see a 4x4 going back. Me and the other passenger used it to walk back. “As night drew on it got colder and colder and luckily the older couple had woolly hats. It was very eerie – we’d been instructed to keep the lights on but all of the other cars were dark. “In the morning we started off at 7.30am and got to Portsmouth at 8.30am but the whole journey had taken 14 hours. It was a 28 hour shift for me.” The seven passengers on the 41-seat coach were all very grateful. “I think some of them have written to Greyhound,” said Lawrence. “It was a nightmare,” he added. “It’s not an experience I exactly want to remember. With 11 tons on the snow, without passengers, it doesn’t
take much to lose grip. I used every gear – even though it’s semi automatic – without the lower gears I would have got stuck. “The coach idled over for 12 hours and the fuel didn’t run out. We were worried that if we turned the engine off that it might not start again in the morning. “It’s not something I’d like to repeat.”
Lawrence’s wife Teresa and grandson Daniel were waiting anxiously for him back in Rookley although the family was able to keep in touch by mobile phone when the networks were free. Lawrence is now up for a commendation from Greyhound owners FirstGroup along with the other four drivers who were out on the road that night.
One of Greyhounds coaches
Lawrence Hamer
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NEWS
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
Inspector Mark Bell, Darren Vaughn and IW Council Community Safety Services Operations manager Simon Dennis
LOOK BEHIND THE THE IW COUNCIL CCTV control room has undergone a major refurbishment – but it has come at a staggering cost of £289,000! However, it is already being argued that it is money well spent in the ongoing efforts to keep crime on the Island at a lower level than most other places in Britain. Better monitors and digital recording systems are just two of the major upgrades in the refurb which has seen the introduction of state of the art technology, replacing old equipment that included VHS tape recorders and bulky TV monitors. Flat screens and digital hard-drive recording systems are now being used, while the latter allows for more detailed and smooth recordings to be made. The room has also been modified to make it compatible with wireless camera technology, allowing mobile CCTV cameras to be deployed anywhere across the Island. Touch-screen monitors that allow the user to instantly select an individual camera to display simply by touching its location on a map also feature. Simon Dennis, IW Council Community Safety Services Operations manager, is
BY JAMIE WHITE convinced it is money well spent. He said: “The current systems, which were the latest technology at the time they were installed over ten
“Not only is it an essential tool to help police detect crimes, it also plays a key role in preventing crime.” years ago, were beginning to show their age. “For example, most of the recording was done on VHS tapes which then had to be archived. The monitors were old and bulky and the recordings had a slow frame rate, meaning you effectively got a series of still pictures when looking back at footage. “The new monitors are very eco-friendly and are flat screen, allowing space in the room to be better utilised. The digital recording systems
also have a significant improvement in frame rates, meaning when you play back footage, it’s like watching it in real-time and not a series of pictures. They also can record non-stop without the need to change tapes. “All these changes significantly improve the quality of evidence gathered through CCTV which can be used by the police to detect crimes and in court. The new technology is already making a real difference to the CCTV service.” IW Council Cabinet member for Community Safety, Cllr Barry Abraham, believes the upgrade will play a huge role in helping the Island remain one of the UK’s safest places to live. He said: “Not only is it an essential tool to help police detect crimes, it also plays a key role in preventing crime. For example, a CCTV operator could alert police to an incident in a street before it escalates, they could inform businesses of a known shop-lifter, or they can direct resources towards groups of unruly people causing anti-social behaviour. “The upgrade of the CCTV control room demonstrates the council is determined
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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NEWS
SCREENS OF CCTV to continue helping protect residents by working with partners in cracking down on anti social behaviour and crime.” Hampshire Constabulary’s Inspector Mark Bell added: “The upgrade to digital technology will be much more efficient and will provide better quality evidence enabling the police to more easily identify offenders. “CCTV is not only a valuable preventative tool but greatly assists in the investigation of crime. The new system will speed up the reviewing of footage, saving officers’ time. “It will produce a DVD, which can be shown to offenders during interviews and to magistrates during a court appearance.” There are currently 85 CCTV cameras in operation in Ryde, Sandown and Newport. An additional 15 cameras are due
to be installed in Shanklin and Cowes in the near future. On average, almost 1,500 hours of CCTV footage are recorded each year, using up a total of 491 three hour VHS tapes, which will no longer be required under the new digital systems.
gazette the isle of wight
REPORTING ISLAND NEWS
HOW TO CONTACT THE IW GAZETTE
From January 1, 2009 until the start of November last year, police had requested over 600 recordings of CCTV footage, while camera operators monitored or assisted with over 1,150 arrests between April 2008 and April 2009.
Simon Dennis and Darren Vaughn
YOUR NEWS
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
MANDY WINS TOP
MARTIN STEPHENS, National Clinical Director of Pharmacy, attended the Island’s Annual Pharmacy Awards at the Royal Hotel, Ventnor, and presented Mandy Wood, of Boots in Ryde, with Island Pharmacist of the Year. Hosted by Kevin Noble, branch chairman of the Local Pharmacy Committee, the awards were
presented by Martin Stephens and Mike Holden, chief operating officer of the Local Pharmacy Committee. Pharmacy Technician of the Year was won by Nick Stotesbury of Siddy’s Pharmacy in Newport. Pharmacy assistant of the Year was won by Chris Vessey of Gibbs Continued on page 13
Kevin Noble, branch chairman of the Local Pharmacy Committee
Island Drug and Alcohol Service staff
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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FEATURE
PHARMACY AWARD A member of St Mary’s mental health team collects their award for pharmacy team of the year
Candice Hughes Thomas, pre-registrant of the year
Gill Lacey, winner of the white paper award
Nick Stotesbury, pharmacy technician of the year
Gary Warner, winner of the supporting professional development category
Christine Vassey, pharmacy assistant of the year
Mandy Wood, Island pharmacist of the year
Liz Harrison, winner of the promoting safety of medicines category
and Gurnell Pharmacy in Ryde. For those in training to become a pharmacist the Pre-Registrant Award was won by Candice Hughes Thomas of Regent Pharmacy. Presented by Martin Stephens the pharmacy team of the year was won by The Mental Health Team at St Mary’s Hospital. Promoting Safety in Medicine in Medicine Award was won by Liz Harrison of St Mary’s Hospital. The White Paper Award, presented by Michael Holden, was won by Gill Lacey of Siddys Convent Pharmacy in Carisbrooke. Gary Warner of Regent Pharmacy was presented with his award for Supporting Professional Development by Martin Stephens. Michael Holden introduced
the evening with a short speech about changes in pharmacy over the past year and the movement towards the concept of healthy living centres as set out in the recent pharmacy White Paper. He outlined how introductions made to Island pharmacies include a Community Pharmacy based hepatitis B vaccination service, including testing for Hepatitis B and C and comprehensive sexual health screening. “Our integrated sexual health service has been recognized nationally, and cited as an example of best practice,” said Mr Holden. December 1, World Aids Day, saw the introduction of the first commissioned Continued on next page
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FEATURE
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
VENTNOR ON THE FRINGE OF FIRST
THIS SUMMER sees the first Ventnor Fringe Festival being staged in the town, all arranged and staged by youngsters from the area. Billed as a modern pilgrimage, the open arts festival is “dedicated to celebrating the power of art through performance, practice and participation.” Venues will include indoor and outdoor spaces. The website for the festival has just been launched at www.vfringe.co.uk and says: “Developed as a centre of wellbeing and inspiration to some of the greatest literacy figures of recent history, this new festival in Ventnor launching for the first time in 2010 aims to re-establish and develop the ambitions of the town’s founders and create a centre of learning, arts and emotional enrichment. “The Isle of Wight’s answer to the world famous Edinburgh Fringe, the Ventnor Fringe Festival will take place over four days in locations encompassing the entire town, from parks to basements, churches to courtyards, all will play host to artists in disciplines as diverse as spoken word, film, music and theatre. “The Festival will run from the August 11 to 14, 2010 to coincide with the 121st Ventnor Carnival celebrations and is an open arts festival in which artists from any discipline and from any location in the world can take part in, performing and experimenting with their work, networking and developing new skills and ideas. “The Festival will be unique to the Island not only in its form but also in its management, with the event being established and led by a team of local teenagers, giving the Fringe a unique style and perspective. Combined with the experience of a team of advisors and supporters Ventnor Fringe promises to provide something for a great diversity of interests. If you think you would like to show your work or perform at Vfringe check the website at www.vfringe.co.uk for further details. Deadline for performers is June 11, 2010.
Continued page
from
previous the wiser, the results of which, you will agree, could be quite catastrophic,” he added. Also for the first time seasonal community pharmacy based HIV screening service. “In just influenza vaccinations have two weeks we had identified a been available via community person infected with HIV, who pharmacies in partnership with would otherwise still be none local GPs. “Several pharmacists
will next week start with H1N1 vaccinations, to be given to patients in the under 5 patient group. “This year has also seen the full automation of storage in Pharmacy, I understand an area where the Island hospital
Gibbs and Gurnell of Ryde
Pharmacy service is also leading the way,” said Mr Holden. “We are proud that the pharmacy at St Mary’s takes the lead with the Patient Safety Federation,” he continued. “So in conclusion we have much to celebrate.”
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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BISHOP DEFROCKED
AFTER being disqualified from serving as a councillor for two years this week, Anne Bishop made this statement: “I served on the Town Council for over 10 years and as an Isle of Wight Councillor for four years. I am disappointed to have to stand down for 2 years. “It was a difficult time for me in 2007. Craven Court needed considerable money spent on it and my partner was suffering a terminal illness. My plans were to keep the original Victorian building and demolish the extension and build flats in the grounds. In light of the developments in Sandown and Shanklin of former hotels I did not think my application was wrong. “I did not consciously seek to use my position as a Councillor to get anything more than any member of the public. “I accept the decision of the Tribunal and with hindsight I would have employed a planning consultant to speak for me at the planning meeting and the two and a half years of distress might have been avoided. I will now
put it behind me and move on.” In response to the First-tier Tribunal’s Final Decision, the Standards for England has issued the following statement on the conduct
“Councillor Bishop ‘failed abysmally’ to divorce her private capacity from her position as a Councillor” of the councillor: “Following a Standards for England (SfE) investigation, Councillor Anne Bishop has been found to have breached several parts of the members’ Code of Conduct by the Adjudication Panel for England (APE), now known as the First-tier Tribunal (Local Government Standards in England). The First-tier Tribunal agreed with
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NEWS
SfE’s ethical standards officer’s view that Councillor Bishop had breached the parts of the Code of Conduct concerned with compromising the impartiality of officers of an authority and seeking to improperly confer an advantage for herself. She was also found to have breached the Code in relation to bringing her own office as Councillor, and the Council itself, into disrepute. The Tribunal found that Councillor Bishop ‘failed abysmally’ to divorce her private capacity from her position as a Councillor and sought to use that position to gain advantage for herself. The sanction imposed on Councillor Bishop is disqualification from being or becoming a councillor for two years, commencing today (18 January 2010). Standards for England welcome the Tribunal’s decision, which demonstrates to the public that councillors whose ethical conduct falls so far short of the standard they expect of them, can be brought to account.”
OAP RESCUED FROM CAR
AN OAP may have needed to go for an eye test – but possibly not by car. The 69-year-old driver lost control of her vehicle while driving down Sandown Road in Brading on Tuesday. The pensioner mounted the grass verge, hit a fence post and rolled the car on to its side. Fire crews from Bembridge and the crash tender based at Newport attended but the driver had already been helped out of the vehicle by police and paramedics. A police spokesman, said: “The driver walked out unhurt and was checked over by paramedics at the scene. The road was closed for a short time whilst the fire service made the car safe”
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FEATURE
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
FIREFIGHTING TODAY East Cowes Watch manager Melvyn Richards explaining hose capacity to a potential retained fire fighter
Station manager Trevor Moyce demonstrates one of the tests that potential retained firefighters have to carry out on selection day
ISLAND fire bosses were overwhelmed by the number of people who attended the recruitment presentation on Tuesday at Ryde Community Fire Station. Nearly 100 people arrived for information about the 10 retained positions advertised in the local media. The Gazette was invited along to see how diverse the fire service has become. Station Manager Trevor Moyce, whose role is diversity and workforce,
explained that the days of shuttle running, the beep test and being super fit are over. “The role of the Island’s fire service has changed considerably in the last five years to reflect the demands of the service and the community. The ‘new look’ firefighter is not an individual who is just focused on the traditionally perceived role of attending emergency incidents and the physical requirements to achieve that aim,” he
A potential recruit attempts a dummy drag test
BY JASON KAY explained. “A firefighter is now required to be even more adaptable. The new look still fulfils the traditional role of dealing with fires in all types of premises and a variety of Special Service Calls, which include incidents such as the trapping of persons at road traffic accidents, chemical emergencies, flooding and other natural disasters. But the fire service is also able to switch from this reactive role to a more preventative role, involving the education of our communities about the hazards presented by fire. “This requires the ability to communicate with all at-risk groups within the community especially the elderly and school children, carrying out presentations and talks and visiting dwellings within the community talking to residents about
how they can plan to avoid and then survive a fire if it occurs. In many instances this will involve the fitting of smoke detectors on behalf of those people to ensure their safety. “To achieve these, firefighters need to understand and represent the community that they serve. Society is continually changing and becoming more multi-cultural and, therefore, the modern firefighting team, in order to fulfill its role of communicating with that society, has to represent all cultures and gender. It is therefore, a diverse team committed to the safety of the public from fire in all respects.” Anyone interested in applying for the current advertised retained firefighter positions must live within five minutes of East Cowes, Freshwater, Yarmouth or Bembridge fire stations. To take the application further contact Trevor Moyce at Ryde community fire station on 01983 817 021. The closing date for applications is January 29.
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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FEATURE
KELLY IS FIRING ‘EM UP Kelly Addison working out at TJs gym
Kelly Addison in her day job working as a fitness instructor
DON’T let Kelly Addison’s slight figure fool you into thinking that she might not be able to fight a fire with the best of them. Kelly (28) is a fitness instructor at TJs gym in Lake and has fitted in her ‘shouts’ as a retained firefighter around her work and home commitments. It was eight years ago that Kelly’s boss at TJs suggested that she might join the fire service. “My boss Steve Marsh was retained and he said I should go for it,” she said.
“On my recruits course there were three women and there were four or five already in the service.” There are now four full time women and two retained firefighters in the service, although Kelly will soon be moving over to a full time job post. “When I first started I was called out once a day but now I go possibly three or four times a week. I love it – it’s great fun,” said Kelly. “I get on with the guys – I don’t feel like a woman in the fire
Retained firefighter works the pump
service, I’m just one of the team. I don’t feel that I get treated any differently or get any special favours and I wouldn’t want it to be any other way. “I’ve not had any problems with sexism. But women often find it hard to believe I’m a firefighter and say “really?”. I took part in a perception survey about why women don’t join the fireservice, which was done on the Island last summer, and found that most ladies who talked to me said that
they hadn’t thought of joining, weren’t fit enough or were too old. “The lady I joined with was in her 40s,” added Kelly. “And whatever you want to do with your body you can do. “Women firefighters have to do all of the jobs that guys do – they have to reach all of the fitness targets related to the work that you will have to do as a firefighter.” Kelly is married to Joe and they have one daughter, Jessie (2). “My alerter has
gone off and I haven’t heard it and Jessica has brought it to me,” said Kelly. “And when I do community safety workshops she comes along and she knows that Mummy wears a uniform.” When Kelly moves into full time firefighting on February 1 she will go straight on watch instead of going away on a 15 week off-Island residential course. By the end of nine months she will have completed a BTEC Level 3 in Emergency Fire Services Operations
Have you got what it takes to work with the fire service?
in the Community – a new migration policy programme. “Most of the women in the service have started off as retained firefighters,” said Kelly who did a BTEC in Sports Science at Medina and Sandown High Schools after her GCSEs. “My new job will mean that I’m on for two days and then two nights which will give me a really good balance – I get to work full time but I’ll still get a lot of time with Jessica.
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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NEWS
A PERFECT ENDING Hospice News Hospice Fundraising: Telephone - 528989 Pumphouse Gang to ideally be taken to the Hospice play in memory of Sue Warehouse for sorting on THE PUMPHOUSE Gang with The Mechanixs will be appearing live at Ryde Castle on Saturday January 23, 2010 from 7.30pm. The Concert is in remembrance of Sue Oxford and will raise money for the Island’s Hospice. This is a ticket only event and tickets are priced at £10. They are available from Strings in Monkton St Ryde and The Simeon Arms in Ryde. Some tickets will be available on the door.
Violins at Ventnor ON SUNDAY January 24 at 3pm Ventnor Winter Gardens will come alive with sounds from well-known violinist Steve Bingham. He will present a programme entitled “Lines and Loops” - an eclectic mix of music for violin and electric violin. Helen Bonner, Bailey, Ella and Scott Greenland BEING together for the birth of their baby, despite the snowy conditions, was thankfully provided for a Lake couple in a joint operation between the NHS and the police. Helen Bonner (23) started contractions at 3am on January 7 and rang the hospital who thought she might have the baby within the hour. “It started at 3am and they were very close together,” said Helen. ”They sent a 4x4 car but it only had room for the paramedics, the equipment and me.” NHS Isle of Wight staff, Paramedic Dave Couch and Emergency Vehicle Operative Richard Farrent, arrived in Lake in a 4 x 4 vehicle in half an hour but there was not enough room for Helen’s boyfriend, 25year-old Scott Greenland, to travel with her and the paramedics to St. Mary’s Hospital in Newport. Helen was then worried that Scott was not going to be able to be at the birth. “The midwife phoned the police and they sent a 4x4 to pick up Scott. He texted me when the police arrived asking if I’d had the baby and was relieved that I hadn’t.” As taxis and buses were not running in this area at the time, midwives contacted the police who phoned back within the hour. A police 4 x 4 vehicle driven by PC Lisa Lee and PC Bob Hammersley arrived from the Roads Policing Unit at Shanklin to take Scott to hospital. He received a text message during the journey to say Helen had not given birth yet. Scott arrived in time to be with her and see the birth of their
second child at 10.06am; a healthy seven pound boy, who was named Bailey Christopher Greenland. Scott said: “The paramedics and police officers were excellent. They were so supportive. I never expected anyone to be able to reach us in time. What started as a nightmare, turned out to be perfect. It made our day.” Chris Smith, Head of the
Island’s Ambulance Service said: “The weather conditions made it particularly difficult for the Ambulance Service to reach all patients. The attending crew were very conscious of the serious nature of the call and did their best, despite the weather conditions, to get there as soon as possible. We are all delighted with the positive outcome.”
Steve will be exploring a wide range of music for violin, from the extraordinary beauty of Bach’s solo works, through composers such as Telemann, Bartók, Astor Piazzolla, Steve Reich and Philip Glass, to newly commissioned works, and arrangements of pieces by the likes of Chick Corea and The Beatles! As with previous Sunday Classics concerts, entry to the concert will be free and there will be a retiring collection in aid of the Earl Mountbatten Hospice. The series has already raised about £400 in the first two concerts and is building up an enthusiastic following.
February music quiz February 12 BECAUSE of bad weather the January music quiz in aid of the Hospice had to be cancelled. However, organisers are raring to go again and the February quiz will take place on Friday February 12 at 7.30 at Newport Football Club. It is £10 to enter a team of four. Prizes will be available on the night for the winning team and there will also be a raffle.
Good quality clothing needed
Proud dad Scott and Bailey Greenland
THE HOSPICE Charity shops across the Island are in urgent need of good quality clothing to sell. Donations should
Dodnor Industrial Estate in Newport. The warehouse is almost exactly opposite the Royal Mail Offices and is clearly marked. The telephone number is 244230. Good quality, gently worn and nearly new clothes are a great source of income for the Hospice. Clothes should be clean and complete with all zips, buttons etc in place and of a quality that will attract potential customers.
It’s a Knockout Saturday April 24 and Sunday April 25 THE HOSPICE with Robin Hill are proud to announce “It’s a Knockout 2010”. Teams of 10 can participate in this exciting and water drenched event. Minimum sponsorship for this event is £30 per person and this includes entry into Robin Hill Garden Show, refreshments and lots of fun! “It’s a Knockout” will be played on both Saturday and Sunday. Applications packs can be obtained from the Hospice fundraising department by calling 528989. If you do not think you will be able to find 9 other people to join you but would like to take part please also apply for an application form. We will be able to put individual participants into groups of ten on the day.
The Frock Exchange at IW Pearl ISLE OF WIGHT Pearl are hosting a “Frock Exchange” for the Hospice on Friday April 16 at 7pm. To take part simply take £1 and a good quality dress, pair of shoes or handbag to either the Hospice Shop in Lugley Street, Newport or Isle of Wight Pearl anytime between now and the 16th April. When you hand over your item you will be given a voucher. Then on the evening of the event you can exchange your voucher for another excellent item of clothing. The event will also have a raffle on the night and guests will receive wine on arrival. It is hoped that this event will attract some very high quality donations, making it a fantastic night out. If you would like more details call the Hospice fundraising team on 528989.
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GREEN PAGE
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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21
WARMING YOUR FEATURE HOME
VITAL TO KEEP HOMES WARM The Island is just recovering from one of the coldest spells, and accompanying snowy conditions, in over 20 years. And there could be more on the way. There is a real danger is that threatened with high fuel bills that we all turn down the heat rather than turn it up. Very few people die of hypothermia on the Isle of Wight, but people with medical complications such as heart conditions and asthma but themselves at risk but not keeping out the cold. The good news is that certain vulnerable people on the Island will be getting a cold weather payment, which will help offset the fuel bills. However, those on the lowest incomes often pay the most for their fuel due to rip-off card and key meter schemes. Paying by Direct Debit and buying energy from one supplier in usually the best option. The Island’s Footprint Trust charity can help those on card and key meters as they are working in partnership with an ethical energy supplier, that charge the same regardless of how customers pay. The Trust also offers free home visits –
giving householders tailored guidance on how to reduce energy costs. Many Island homes are poorly insulated and householders could cut their fuel bills by around £200 per year by lagging lofts and getting cavity wall insulation. Around 35per cent of energy is lost through walls and 25 per cent through roofs. Lofts should have about 10 to 11 inches of insulation – much more than many homes have. Those over 70 years old can sometimes get this free as can those in receipt of certain allowances, such as Pension Credit or Housing Benefit. Please call the Footprint Trust for full details on 822282. Keeping you home in good repair can also reduces energy loss. Old leaking windows could mean that you are losing 10 to 20 per cent of your heating. Getting some quotes from reputable established double-glazing companies could also be worthwhile. Having a well insulated home is the first line of defence in seeking to keep warm and well and doing your bit to help the planet……
THIS WEEKS CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
ACROSS
1. Transport makes pilot cheer! (10) 6. Sort of colonnade to be found in South America (4) 10. Story about black board (5) 11. Left university having formed a drag duet (9) 12. Croatian dress? (8) 13. Viewed, say, as a bit of an act (5) 15. Mass executioners? (7) 17. Hearts of soldiers invested in American coins (7) 19. Flash worker isn’t worried to begin with (7) 21. Surprising letters of support for board (7) 22. Head of prisons in true fix from break out (5) 24. Rebellion at university on the increase (8) 27. He is noted for dealing without authorisation (2,3,4) 28. It’s found in Susan’s furniture (5) 29. Grass is a source of irritation (4) 30. Spare a lone craft? (10)
DOWN
1. Shut out – of what? (4) 2. Jointly signs books here (9) 3. Family taking ecstasy, yet free of drugs! (5)
4. Fliers’ responsibilities? (7) 5. New Castile can be flexible (7) 7. Antithesis: having hidden tax (5) 8. Speak, look up to recipients (10) 9. Pest that might cause inn trouble (8) 14. Winning team gets depressed in confusion (6,4) 16. Looked across empty terminal, surprised (8) 18. Holding back soldiers with reported stress (9) 20. Like a bull in a true form (7) 21. Decode protocol, hiding raised weapon (7) 23. Executed lunatic, say (5) 25. Sarah pinched one’s hemp (5) 26. 30ac, for example, will get black marks at last (4)
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FEATURE
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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FEATURE
Christmas
PASSPORT PHOTO FROM YOUR PARTY NIGHT OUT
AT THE BALCONY
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FEATURE
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
SCHOOL OFFERS 60 CHOICES
Parents, carers and Year 9 students from both Carisbrooke High School and those wishing to join the school in September 2010 were invited to the schools Options Evening this week. The school, with its “Outstanding Curriculum” currently offer a staggering choice from over 60 subjects including Classical Civilisation, Fine Art, Engineering, Fashion and Clothing and Health and Social care to name a few. Carisbrooke firmly believes in establishing collaborative partnerships with other training providers and students at the school can opt to study a variety of non school based options alongside their own school based ones. Within the
curriculum offer, students are encouraged to mix and match qualifications such as GCSEs, BTECs, NCFEs and Diplomas, the school making no distinction between the “traditional” and “vocational” pathways. Each student can study a mixture of subjects, qualifications and school or non-school based options in order to create a truly personalised curriculum that enables them to enjoy and succeed. Even within the Core curriculum, students can choose the appropriate pathway for them including seven different Science options, a number of PE pathways and of course the ‘express Mathematics’ pathway where students complete their GCSE at the
end of year 10 and go on to study AS level Maths in year 11. David Jeapes, Headteacher said: “We were delighted when Ofsted judged our curriculum to be outstanding. Enabling students to study a wide variety of subjects and qualification types is one of the factors that we feel contributes to Carisbrooke High School once again being placed top of the league tables for Island state schools.” If you are interested in joining Carisbrooke High School from September 2010 or before and would like to view their options booklet you can visit the website at www. carisbrookehighschool.
Kirsty Jones, Assistant Headteacher
Prue Lawrence, Fashion Teacher
Mary Groves, Art & Photography Teacher; Nicole Symes, Art Teacher; Jo Carr, Art Teacher
Naomi Bennett and Reuben Mowle
Charlie Hibberd and friend on exercise bikes
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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25
FEATURE
Chester Ward
Rob Maddox, Assistant Headteacher; Sue Brammeld, Enhanced Deputy Headteacher; David Jeapes, Headteacher
Matt Bailey
Stephen Bishop, Subject Leader, Vocational Sport
Ed Nolan
Joel Hadden; Ben Sampler, Music Teacher; Luke Nesbitt
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FEATURE
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
A PRETTY GOOD THING!
THERE was dancing in the aisles and around half of the audience were on their feet by the end of the Pretty Things fundraising gig at the Winter Gardens in Ventnor which raised £1,205.35 for St Catherine’s School. Dressed in black suits, white shirts and black ties the Pretty Things played a very tight set with a mixture of rock, r&b and some more psychedelic numbers from their rock opera SF Sorrow, transporting the crowd back to an era of flower power and the first Island Pop Festivals. Lead singer Phil May, ever the showman, sported his rock star sunglasses, and must be one of the few people who make clutching a bunch of maracas menacing. Frank Holland who still retains the rock star hairstyle – wild curly and black – was on good form with his lead guitar riffs. Younger additions to the original line up were George Perez on a mean bass and Jack Greenwood on drums with manager Mark St. John providing some excellent harmonies and tambourine. And hiding behind the front line up, reticent local rock legend Dick Taylor was on fantastic form. With his guitar solo and Phil May’s harmonica, and the four part vocal wall on the harmonies in ‘The Beat Goes On’ the audience had a rare treat – and one of many. Dick was later enticed to the front of the stage to sing the lead on ‘Baron Saturday’, a
AS
AS
BY JO MACAULAY number from SF Sorrow, much to the delight of local friends and family. In fact the whole concert was marked by much good humour on the part of both performers and guests. Supporting the Pretty Things were their record label mates the Malchicks, fronted by Scarlet Wrench and supported by bassist George Perez who also plays with the Pretty Things. Dick Taylor was on bass guitar and manager Mark St. John on the zany orange drum kit and the band played a selection of covers and original numbers. Scarlett had been presented with a book of poetry written by the children at St Catherine’s School and read a few of the poems on stage. The band’s final number ‘27’, one of their own, was particularly good with George Perez’s deft slide guitar playing. Local band the Amen Boogie Blues Band followed the Malchicks, with lead singer Dave Hollis also playing a mean harmonica and whipping up a blues storm for the Pretty Things to follow. DJ Kaf-Tan kept the whole evening flowing with an excellent choice of vinyls from the era, and all in all it was a fun way to raise money for the St Catherine’s charity.
Rob D’Bank
AS
St Catherine’s is a national charity for children and young people with speech language and communication difficulties. Their centre in Ventnor encompasses a specialist school, a further education centre, intensive speech and language therapy and a comprehensive vocational training programme, and also provides a base for outreach support to schools, other voluntary organisations and to parents and families, both on the Island and across the South. In recent years St Catherine’s has developed it’s charity capacity with a small team focusing on fundraising, communications and future developments. Part of their work looks to raise awareness of speech, language and communication disabilities generally speaking and the work of St Catherine’s in particular. As a national charity this work extends beyond the Island with a number of receptions held in London. Their next London awareness raising reception will be in March with acclaimed actor, novelist and screen writer Julian Fellowes. The charity is also privileged to have fabulous patrons including Rob da Bank and Christopher Biggins. As Aimee Steward, Development Officer, explained “Rob is fantastic, he often visits the children and young people- which they love. We have a presence at both Bestival and Camp Bestival and Robby also ensures that the children and young people get to experience all the fun at Bestival” St Catherine’s also have a large charity shop in Newport High Street and youngsters at the school’s vocational training project, The Worx, make some of the items
sold such as popular bird boxes. Youngsters can also complete periods of work experience in the shop to get an idea of being in the work environment. The charity supports the schools work, the Worx and also the purchase of specialist equipment. Over the next five years they plan to develop the site, buildings and facilities. Plans have been approved for a new residential building including sick bay and an occupational therapy unit. Following a two-day intensive Ofsted care inspection in October St Catherine’s received an “Outstanding” report. It noted: “Each young person is treated as an individual with their own social, cultural, educational and health needs. Teaching, residential, nursing, therapeutic and support staff all support young people to meet achievable goals. Residential care plays an important role within the school and the well motivated team have created a safe and nurturing environment in which young people can develop a range of social and life skills.” St Catherine’s is one of the few schools for speech, language and communication disabilities that offer a further education facility. They also run the special needs unit at Nodehill Middle School and Carisbrooke High School and are looking to increase their outreach services. Upon visiting the school you are struck immediately with the friendly, open and positive attitude of the youngsters. William (18) is in his third year at the FE College and is an assistant scout leader with Wroxall `scouts
and has also completed his gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. “I’ve had a lot of support with independence from the care staff and been pushed with my scout work,” he said. Louis (17) is actually learning to play the guitar with Dick Taylor who comes into the school once a week. “Dick has taught me some complicated tunes using your fingers and it’s really hard work and you have to get the right time and beat,” he explained. Louis is also taking photography GCSE. “It’s great,”” said Louis. Charlie (17) explained that he was taking a GCSE in construction. “I’m building a wall. It’s good practice for GSE and a good skill to learn,” said Charlie. Liam (17) liked the fact that the older children are allowed into the town in the evenings. Declan (17) explained how youngsters are taught how to run a business, keep books and invoice for work completed. Livvie (17) was keen to talk about the work she has done with the Young Chamber. “We do challenges with other high schools on the Island,” she explained. So it’s onwards and upwards for St Catherine’s and in more ways than one – the school buildings are currently on 57 different levels, perched on the side of a steep Ventnor hill. Demand for the services available at St Catherine’s far exceeds supply and the team are looking to ensure that more children and young people with speech, language and communication difficulties are getting the help and support that they need.
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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JOB SEARCH
FIND YOUR WAY BACK TO WORK WITH JOBCENTRE PLUS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT FOR WORK AND PENSIONS Job title Location Description Wages Duration
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Jobcentre Plus Reference Number. How to Apply:
Support Worker
West Wight
Experience of working in the community, good communication skills and an empathic of the needs of vulnerable families are essential. Experience of working with young children desirable.
£8.50 per hour. 5 hours per week, Term Time Only
12 Month Contract
NIW/9881 - Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number.
Waiting Staff
Sandown
Previous experience is preferred although full training will be provided. Duties involve taking orders, serving meals, clearing away and re-setting tables, and keeping all areas clean and tidy. No live-in accommodation is available for this position.
Exceeds National Minimum Wage. 36 hrs per week. 6 days out of 7 – split shifts
Permanent
RFM/6092- Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number
Commis Chef
Sandown
Must have experience of mass catering as you will be serving up to 200 guests. Must have basic food hygiene certificate. You will be cooking using fresh produce on a set menu.
Exceeds National Minimum Wage. 36 – 42 hrs per week 6 days out of 7 – split shifts
Permanent
RFM/6091- Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number
Bar Staff
Newport
Must be 18+. Must have previous experience. Must be able to provide a reference. Duties include; serving customers, operating till, handling cash, keeping area clean and tidy and stocking bar.
£5.88 per hour. 12 hours, Friday and Saturday, 9pm to 3am
Permanent
NIW/9898 - Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number
Care Assistant
Blackwater, Newport
NVQ or equivalent qualification in care is preferred but not essential. Duties include general care of elderly residents, bathing, helping with meals, dressing and other tasks as required.
£6.21 per hour. 35 hrs per week over 7 days and 24 hrs. Days and times to be arranged.
Permanent
NIW/9844 - Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number
Cook
Blackwater, Newport
Successful applicants will be vetted. Must have a food hygiene certificate. Duties to include general kitchen duties, cooking home cooked meals to dietary plans, record keeping, keeping the work area clean and tidy
£7.50 per hour. 20 to 30 hours, Saturday & Sunday. 7.30am to 6.00pm
Permanent
NIW/9902 - Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number
Education Support Worker
Shanklin
Working within a small friendly team. You must be able to understand the needs of others, empathise and relate to young women with children, have good interpersonal skills, be a team player, computer literate and be able to work solely on your own.
£13,535.16 pro rata per annum. 23 hrs per week Monday -Thursday – days only.
Fixed term contract to end December 2010
RFM/6095- Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number
Cook
Sandown
Previous home cooking experience essential with the ability to work on own initiative. Food handling certificate is essential. Duties include preparing and cooking lunchtime and tea time meals for 27 residents and cleaning of the kitchen.
£6.25 per hr. 15 hrs per week 3 out of 7 days. 9am -2pm
Permanent
RFM/6097. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276803 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number
28
SPORT
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
MAULING FOR TIGERS
The Wightlink Tigers were ripped apart by the Swindon Wildcats, after they suffered a comprehensive 17-1 defeat. The Wiltshire side had already won 17 of their 18 matches this season, and their fast pace and clinical finishing proved too much for the Island side. The Wildcats lit the lamp on four minutes with their first goal of seven in the opening period. The home
side continued their impressive performance as they wfinished the second period with a 13-0 lead. The third period did see the Tigers get on the score sheet, to deny Swindon a shut out. Joe Osborne netted from Chris Randle and Niall Bound, but it was little consolation as the home side hit back with four more to win the game 17-1. Aaron Knight was man of the match for the Tigers.
The Tigers next home game is January 31, when they take on Lee Valley Lions. Meanwhile, the Wightlink Tigers’ loose defenceman, Niall Bound, has transferred to the Wightlink Raiders after impressing coach Jeremy Cornish in recent training sessions. Youngster James Eklund has also been rewarded after his recent good performances and joins the Tigers from the U18 IW Wildcats.
BOWLERS’ BOOST The Wight Sharks indoor junior bowls team will be looking the part in their remaining fixtures this season, thanks to the generosity of a Sandown couple. Chris and Sue McDonald, who own Davilles Restaurant in the high street, heard about the team’s
financial difficulties and stepped forward to sponsor the squad and present them with a set of new shirts. The strip was presented to some of the Wight Sharks’ squad members by Chris and Sue, in time for their recent match against
Foxhills. A spokesperson from the IW Indoor Bowls Club, said: “All of the team members are very appreciative to Davilles Restaurant for their generous shirt sponsorship and will be proud to wear them in all their competitive matches.”
L to R: Robbi Hayes, Chris McDonald, Sue McDonald, Travis Meller, Ryan Trigg, Josh Berry, Tansy Wheeler and Peter Wheeler.
BACK ON COURSE The recent cold spell has restricted competitions at Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club, with the course being closed because of snow and then a number of temporary greens being in use as the thaw set in. That left a couple of Monthly competitions still outstanding, but the club is hoping to catch up on the backlog in the next couple of weeks. The ladies managed to
squeeze in their ‘Three Clubs and a Putter’ event, which was won by Julie Miller on 28 points ahead of Deborah Richards with 26. The John Salter Order of Merit for 2009 was won by Ashley Palmer with Mo Ismail second and Paul Butler third. Despite the restrictions an open Stableford went ahead, which was won by David Buckman (39) from Keith Taylor (36).
Shanklin and Sandown GC covered in snow
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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29
SPORT
U16’s ON THIN ICE
The Isle of Wight Thunder U16s ice hockey team were edged out 4-2 by Cardiff U16, in what proved to be a tough test for the Islanders. The task was a hard one for the visiting Island side, with the hosts having the luxury of having a full squad of 22 players with only one of them being an U14 player. As usual the IW team was an even mixture of U14s, U16s and rookies. The game started at a frantic pace with the size of the rink a real eye
opener to some of the players who had not played on a rink of that size before. The early exchanges were going Cardiff’s way and it was obvious to see why they had only conceded one goal at home all season and scored 42. Their forward lines were full of power and pace and within five minutes of the start they had scored their first goal. The Thunder had no time to hang around and began to get back into the game. The line changes
were becoming crisp and were beginning to match Cardiff in most departments. With further chances by both teams the period ended with a slender 1-0 advantage to the hosts. The second period was far more even as the Thunder got up to speed and started to cause Cardiff a few problems. The pressure finally paid off when Luke Bontoft broke through down the middle and fed a lovely pass to Rory Julian who hit a
blue line slapshot that flew in off the left hand post. Cardiff came back fighting and took the lead again just three minutes later and added a third shortly after. The Thunder managed to steady the ship and the score remained at 3-1 going into the third period. The players were given a good interval talk and came out with a new lease of life, with Aidan Doughty scoring with just ten
minutes to go, to cut the deficit to just one goal. But once again this kick-started Cardiff’s efforts and they forced netminder Elliott Powell into a string of fine saves. The decisive goal came with just five minutes left, when Cardiff found the net for the fourth time to seal a very hard fought 4-2. Man of the match went to Elliott Powell who faced 39 shots and Spirit of the game went to Ross Beale.
SHARKS MOVE INTO LAST FOUR
The Wight Sharks U25 indoor bowls team have reached the semi-final stage of the David Cornwell U25s Inter-Club Double Rink competition, after they beat Foxhills U25s. It was the biggest game the youngsters have contested and they knew that to enable them to reach the last four, they would have to play consistently and with good teamwork. The home rink of Ryan Trigg, Josh Berry, Ben Mackett and Adam Clark played Andrew Litchfield, Georgina Hopkins, Jamie Richardson & Chris Fletcher, while the away rink of Kieran Clark, Jack Berry, Sam Lines and Robbi Hayes played Vicky Broom, Kelly Newman, Philip Gregory and Alex Fletcher. At five ends the home team lead 8-5, with the away team trailing at
the same stage 4-2. Foxhills fought back to lead the home rink by a single shot at ten ends, and with the Wight Sharks away team drawing level at 6-6, the lead was reversed, giving the Islanders a single shot lead with eleven ends to play. The home team were having a very close encounter with their opponents, and all players were having moments of exceptional play in what was a very exciting game. At 18 ends there was nothing to choose between the sides with the scores level at 16-16. The away team, played exceptionally well, and by the 18th end, they held a 10 shot lead, making the overall score 39-27. Foxhills fought back on their home green to pick up seven shots to the Sharks’ one. However the deficit was too much and the
Island rink, captained by Robbi finished up as winners by a healthy nine shots, with the final score being 24-15. Adams home rink held their cool, and with Foxhills having to score heavily if they were to turn thing around, the Island team only had to maintain their consistency and keep thing tight. Foxhills dropped five shots over three ends and when the final score came in from the away team, Foxhills conceded after the 20th end, giving the Islanders a 20-16 win and an overall winning score of 44-31.
Back Row: Robbi Hayes / Sam Lines / Jack Berry Adam Clark Peter Wheeler. Front Row: Josh Berry / Kieran Clark / Ryan Trigg / Tansy Wheeler.
INTO TORNADOES TORCHERED POWERING YACHT HAVEN
The young IW Tornadoes experienced their first double header match, and after a long trip to Haringey they faced Invicta. When the Tornadoes played Invicta earlier in the season they lost 31-0, so they knew it was going to be a tough one. Four-year-old Levi Coles made his home debut, in just his third match as a registered player. The side is made up of youngsters 12 and under, but perhaps it could more accurately described as aged four and up. The team battled well against Invicta and never gave up, which was great, especially after a tough weekend. But Invicta were too strong once again and romped to a 24-1 victory. Blayne Pugh scored the visitors’ goal, with assists going to Keelan Walsh and Keiron Taverner. Dan Murray as netminder faced 45 shots in the first and 69 in the second, giving an incredible total of 114 shots in just 40 minutes of hockey.
The annual RYA spring power and sail muster will be staged at Cowes Yacht Haven on April 23 to 25. The popular event promises plenty for both sailors and motorboaters with a combination of practical master classes, boat handling and taster sessions as well as the opportunity to chat with industry experts concerning any issues you may have on your own boat. As well as classes from the likes of Raymarine, Icom and Sea Start, new for this year is the Ocean Safety ‘caring for your lifejacket’ presentation and a ‘tow or be towed’ session from the RNLI instructing how to rig a tow line if you are being towed or towing. Sealine Sea School and Hamble School of Yachting will provide boats for people to practice their boat handling skills under the tuition of RYA instructors.Place can be booked by contacting the RYA on 0844 556 9517 or 02380 604 233.
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SPORT
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
RAIDERS RATTLE IN A DOZEN The Wightlink Raiders showed off their offensive skills as they tore apart the Peterborough Islanders in a comfortable 12-1 victory. Another bumper crowd packed Ryde Arena, and it didn’t take long for the Raiders to get to full speed, with Alex Murray netting the game’s first goal assisted by Jeremy Cornish and Steve Gossett. Two goals from captain Danny Hughes and one a piece from American John Sarno and Dan
Scott, completed the first period, giving a 5-0 lead to the home side. The second period opened in much the same way the first had finished, and the Raiders hit the back of the net with a powerplay goal through Luke Reynolds, assisted by Sarno. Alex Murray and Sarno bagged their second goals of the night, before head coach Jeremy Cornish beat Ryan Brainborough in the Peterborough net to leave the Island side firmly
in control with a 9-0 lead. Hardworking forward James Udell registered his sixth goal of the season, with assists from Reynolds, before new signing Steve Slater bagged his first point since returning to the Raiders line up last week. Jeremy Cornish then converted a good pass from Danny Hughes, to give the team an 11-goal lead with less than 10 minutes remaining. The short-benched Peterborough
Islanders did manage to score a consolation goal on 53 minutes, denying Raiders’ stopper Matt Colclough a shut out. Experienced playmaker Stewart Tait then scored the game’s last goal, with assists from Sarno and Reynolds. The Raiders very own 100 per cent man Andrew Robinson was named the team’s man of the match, with netminder Ryan Brainborough clinching the award for the visiting squad after
facing a total of 73 shots from the Raiders. This weekend sees the Raiders take on the Oxford City Stars in back to back crunch matches that could see the Raiders climb above the Stars in the league. The Oxford side features many ex-Raiders among their ranks including Slovakian Juraj Rusic and the popular Alan Green, and will no doubt prove a tough test for the Island side.
TIME TO ENTER ISLAND RACE
The ever-popular Round the Island yacht race may still be nearly five months away, but entries for his year’s epic race can now be secured on line. Following competitor feedback and the large number of entries received online in 2009, it has been decided that entries will be via the online system in 2010. However, paper entries can be
made by contacting the Island Sailing Club direct. The race, will take place on Saturday June 19, and anyone wishing to take part should go to the Notice of Race and Entry Form on the updated Race website at http://www. roundtheisland.org.uk . This year’s event, one of the most spectacular held on or
around the Island, is now the UK’s fourth largest participation sports after the London Marathon and the Great North and South Runs. Around 16,000 sailors from across Europe and the US, as well as from all over the UK, compete in upwards of 1,700 boats to follow the 50 nautical mile course around the Island.
Starting on the famous Royal Yacht Squadron line in Cowes, the fleet races west to The Needles, then on to St Catherine’s Point, turning at Bembridge Ledge buoy and then heading back into the Solent. Spectators can find many vantage points on the mainland and around the Island to watch the race unfold. Over 60 prizes are awarded
and every boat completing this much-loved race receives a special Tankard marking the occasion. The multihull record stands at just 3 hours 8 minutes and 29 seconds and for a monohull the record is 3 hours 53 minutes and 5 seconds. However, the bulk of the fleet crosses the line during the late afternoon or early evening.
The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010
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SPORT
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JOY FOR CRYSTALS The Wight Crystals and The Wight Jewels skating teams have returned to the Island, after successfully competing in the 15th International Synchronised Skating Cup in Huttwil, Switzerland. A group of 42 travelled through the snow and ice, to make the trip up to Gatwick for a flight to Basel, before transferring via coach hour to the Swiss National Sports Centre. Two very tired teams just managed their hour long on ice practice sessions on arrival before collapsing from exhaustion. The Wight Crystals, the Island’s juvenile team of skaters aged eight to 12-years-old, skated a magnificent performance to ‘Blue Peter’ and ‘In the Navy’, dressed in striking blue and white sailor suits. The youngsters put on a terrific performance, and competing against four other strong teams,
BY JAMIE WHITE they managed to beat their own personal best, and finish in first place to take the championship for their level. The final results saw the Wight Crystals, comprising of Kirsty Atter, Nicola Baxter, Mitchell Brown, Milly Button, Charlotte Chapman, Tia Daley, Felicity Gingras, Nikita Heathfield, Beth Howarth, Robyn Johnson, Daisy Jones (Captain), Kayleigh Pedley, Jemma Southwell and Ellee Symmans, finish ahead of Cool Dreams Juvenile Burgdorf to take the crown. Wight Crystals coach, Terri Smith, was delighted with the performance of the team. She said: “I am immensely proud of
the Crystals and their continually improving standards. Our juveniles are doing great things for British synchronized skating. They aren’t just British Champions and Sk8 Scotland Champions, they can take on Europe too and finish top of the pile! They have an excellent future in front of them as they are all so young and talented, especially in working as a team.” The Island’s older junior synchronized skating team, the Wight Jewels, faced extremely strong competition from the Italians and the Swiss team, that currently sit 12th in the World. The Jewels were striving to achieve a mark of 35 in their short program at this level of competition, which would have entitled them to attend the World Championships later this year. Unfortunately they finished just
shy of that mark, so they will continue the fight at the British Championships in February. The team did however still manage to achieve personal best scores in both the short and long programs. This gave them a total score of 85.26, over 10 marks higher then they got in Scotland in October, when they took the Sk8 Scotland title. The Jewels consist of Demi Agar, Nicola Baxter, Isabelle Coeshott, Sabrina Danzig, Gemma Fishel, Mikki Graham, Leah Hancott, Beth Howarth, Daisy Jones, Heather MacDonald, Alicia MacIntyre, Gemma Marsh, Charlotte Mennie, Kate Nutbourne, Isabella Parkes, Zoe Southwell, Emma Wilks (Captain) and Louisa Wrighton. The trip back to the Island was as much an adventure as the competition for the team and
coaches. While waiting at the gate at the airport, the teams received news that their flight was cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. No buses or trains were available either. This meant everyone was put up in a hotel for the night, and after many hours of phone calls, e-mails and support from back in England, they finally got seats on a flight the following day. Team Manager, Sharon Buckman, was proud of the effort by the youngsters and everyone involved in making the trip a success. “The continued improvement of both teams is down to the amazing dedication and hard work from all the skaters and their parents. Synchronized skating in Great Britain is constantly improving, so let’s hope our teams keep improving and winning at the rate they have been,” said Sharon.
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The Gazette, Friday, January 22, 2010