Isle of Wight Observer Issue 33

Observer

5th April 2019

iwobserver

@iwobserver

Isle of Wight

News

FREE

1

The Island’s Only Locally Owned Newspaper

Rainbow Run returns to Sandown 4

Young Platform one stars release singles 24

Friday 5th April 2019 Issue No.33 - 16,000 copies

Serving the local community

White-tailed eagles set to soar!

2

News

www.iwobserver.co.uk

Do you have a story to tell?

Call us on: 01983 214264 Email: newsdesk@iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

Bembridge Parish Council close village toilets

Facebook: @iwobserver Twitter: @iwobserver YouTube: Isle of Wight Observer

Address: Suite 4, 17 Thomas House , St. Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL Publisher: Isle of Wight Observer Ltd. Sales: Carole Dennett, Emma Harper Online editor: Sandy Clarke Production: email: productioniw@icloud.com The IW Observer is a member of IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor of the Press. For more information on the IW Observer complaints policy and how to make a complaint visit: iwobserver.co.uk/make-a-complaint/

Delays on Hale Common after collision A collision between a Peugeot 106 and a Vauxhall Astra caused delays for motorists travelling to and from Sandown through Hale Common on the A3056 late on Thursday afternoon last week. No-one is believed to have been injured in the collision at Branstone, close to the House of Chilli.

Island Line disruption Island Line services were disrupted on Thursday, after a “trespasser” was spotted on the railway tracks in Ryde.

The incident happened at just before 1pm. South Western Railway switched off power to the tracks for more than half an hour.

The power was switched off so that the Isle of Wight Ambulance service could help someone off the line.

Bembridge Parish Council has taken the decision to close the toilets at 5/7 High St. From April 1, there has been only one unisex toilet for residents, visitors and businesses to use in Bembridge, located in the Village Hall.

The notice, informing residents of the closure, which appeared on the Bembridge Parish Council website, reads as follows: "Please note that the toilets at 5/7 High Street have now closed and the new disabled access toilet has opened at the Village Hall. The toilet is accessed from the exterior of the building and is available for all residents, businesses and visitors to use. This toilet is provided and maintained by Bembridge Parish Council."

Cllr Alisdair Steane commented: "If this is true, then yet another improper decision has been taken by a small number of Councillors. This, once again, is another unlawful decision taken outside of due process and procedures."

Floating Bridge crew in danger The latest report on the troubled floating bridge has found that crew members are in danger due to inadequate risk assessments. The report published by OnTheWight following a freedom of information request was heavily-redacted and did not make clear how the crewman came to be injured following an incident in the engine room on 26th September last year.

Following the incident fire and coastguard crews used rope gear to free the 37 year old man who was then transported to hospital. No details of his injuries were released. The report did not make clear the specific hazards that were faced by the crew member but said that existing risk assessments for engineering tasks were ‘very generalised’ and ‘not fit for purpose’. The council released a statement saying that it had implemented the recommendations in the report.

Hovertravel will send you in a spin!

Hovertravel are running hovercraft pleasure flights departing from Southsea at 2.15pm. The trips will include some unique and hair-raising manoeuvres, such as 360 degree spins and deflation of the skirt; experiences that would not normally be welcomed by passengers. There will also be the opportunity Finally, this tweet from ex-PM David to chat with an experienced hovercraft pilot.

Cameron – who triggered the Brexit Those wanting to experience the excitement can referendum – will never, ever get old simply turn up on the day or book in advance by email to business@hovertravel.com or by phone 01983 717700.

If you’re a hovercraft fanatic then you won’t want to miss this one off opportunity on Satuday, April 6th.

5th April 2019

iwobserver

@iwobserver

...the eagles have landed In an exciting development for Island nature lovers and bird watchers, Natural England has issued a licence to allow the release of white-tailed eagles on the Isle of Wight. The release is part of a project, led by the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation and Forestry England, to establish a breeding population of white-tailed eagles in southern England.

White-tailed eagles became extinct as a breeding species in England in the eighteenth century. Releases over the past 40 years have successfully re-established breeding populations in Scotland and Ireland. Whitetailed eagles have been extinct on the Isle of Wight for over two hundred years, the last pair to successfully breed did so on Culver cliff in 1780.

John Durnell, of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, commented: “We, like many others, are very excited about the prospect of seeing white tailed sea eagles in the skies above our two Counties.

“We think the proposals to reintroduce these magnificent birds to the Isle of Wight have the potential to inspire an entirely new audience to take an interest in their natural environment, and the sight of white-tailed sea eagle successfully hunting over a wilder Island would be an iconic image.”

Concerns about the introduction of this magnificent bird of prey have been voiced by farmers, anxious to protect lambs, and

aficionados of the Isle of Wight’s native red squirrels. The Isle of Wight is one of the last places in the south of England where the red squirrel is still flourishing.

Roy Dennis, of the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation, which plans to reintroduce sea eagles to the Isle of Wight, has told the IW Observer that he feels “certain” these magnificent birds represent no threat to the Isle of Wight’s iconic red squirrel.

At a number of public meetings to inform the public of the plans to reintroduce the eagle, the possible threat to the red squirrel was the number one concern of those attending.

According to Mr Dennis: “the white-tailed eagle is a big lumbering bird that does not hunt in woods. We simply don’t think their taking red squirrels is a possibility. We have a camera filming their nests in Scotland, and in seven thousand images, we do not have a single example of a red squirrel kill. The real risks to squirrels are cats and cars.”

In reply, Helen Butler MBE of the Isle of Wight Red Squirrels Trust told the IW Observer: “I’ve looked at everything I’ve been told and asked the opinion of other red squirrel experts in other parts of the country, but I’d like to keep an open mind as things can go wrong and nature doesn’t always do what we think it will. I would hope that if they caused a problem to the squirrels that

they would be removed.”

According to Ms Butler, the reintroduction of the white-tailed eagle might even be beneficial to red squirrels on the Isle of Wight.

“I’ve been told they scatter the buzzards, or

Running in memory of Harriet A grandmother from the Isle of Wight will be taking on the London Marathon later this month in memory of her granddaughter who died just before birth.

Karen Tuckwell’s daughter Kerrie was pregnant with her third child back in 2013 when she had complications and lost the baby in her last few weeks.

They named the baby – who also had Down’s syndrome - Harriet.

“Losing my granddaughter was one of the hardest things to go through but to watch my daughter go through it was even harder. After some time, we decided we wanted to raise money for the Down’s Syndrome Association and do something to remember Harriet by.

We booked our first race and have never looked back. I hope to do everyone proud and will be running with Harriet in my heart.”

Karen says running helps her feel close to Harriet and it has now become

her passion. “It takes me away from life and I can just breathe and be carefree for a while.” The race in London on April 28 will be her second marathon, but the first one she’s done without her daughter by her side.

“I have always trained and raced with Kerrie so to be doing the London Marathon on my own is very nerve racking. I know Kerrie is very proud of me for running the marathon but also doing it for Harriet. She has been through so much, having to bring up her two young daughters whilst grieving for the loss of her baby. She is so very strong and I hope I do her proud.”

Kerrie, who works for a Special Education Needs (SEN) school on the Island, is equally proud of her mum.

“I can’t really describe how overwhelming proud I am of my mum.

She finds training hard and has had a few injuries to deal with but she never gives up. I know she is very anxious

about the big day as she has never entered a run without me. It’s usually something that we do together so this is a big thing.

We started running when we lost Harriet and it was her way of getting me out of the house.”

Karen has already smashed her £500 fundraising target.

“Apart from Harriet being born with Down’s syndrome and us sadly not being able to support her through her life, I would love to help others who need extra help to get the support they need. Kerrie works with children with Downs syndrome here on the Island and she just bursts with pride. I want to be able to give something back to a cause close to my heart.”

Karen will be running the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday April 28 and can be sponsored here. https:// www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ karentuckwell

News

3

may even take a buzzard, which would help the squirrels as the high number of buzzards are causing them a problem.”

4

News

College speaks out and comes third Christ the King College, who won the Senior school Island Youth Speaks Competition, in February, went through to the District Competition on 9th March in Southampton.

They came 3rd in all of Rotary District 1110 and were commended on their performance.

Considering that Christ the King Team had to find a replacement speaker at short notice, as one of their team had to drop out, they performed very well to be placed third in the District.

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

Rainbow run returns to Sandown Airport Following the sell-out success of last summer’s Inflatable Rainbow Run, the event will return to Sandown Airport on Sunday, July 28. Participants will be able to walk, run or dance their way through the happiest 3km on the Isle of Wight, while raising money for Islanders affected by cancer. Comprising a 3km colour run, with five colour stations and ten inflatable obstacles to climb over, clamber around or crawl through, last year’s debut event raised a massive £40,000, with 1,000 people taking part.

Wessex Cancer Trust’s Community Engagement Manager, Lorraine White, said: “We’re so excited to be bringing the Inflatable Rainbow Run back to the Isle of Wight again this year.

Last year’s event sold out in its first year and turned out to be Wessex Cancer Trust’s biggest fundraiser to date, so I would urge anyone interested in taking part to act fast as we’re expecting another sell-out year.”

The family-friendly event, which is this year sponsored by ARID Design and Management Consultants, will also include live music, children’s entertainment, food vans and a licensed bar. For Island businesses, there’s also the chance to go head to head in the Corporate Cup, won last year by Morrisons in Newport. The first to get their team of five over the line will be crowned champions.

All participants will receive a medal for taking part and those who raise more than £50 in sponsorship by June 28 will become star fundraisers, receiving a branded T-shirt to wear on the day. Entry is now open and you can sign up at: www.wessexcancer.org.uk/

event/inflatable-rainbow-run-2019 .

E-mail lorraine.white@wessexcancer. org.uk or call 07785 472863 for further information.

5th April 2019

iwobserver

@iwobserver

Suicide rate to increase due to change in law

It is thought that following a change in the law the official recorded suicide rate across the country looks likely to increase, including on the Island. The High Court has changed the rules on when a Coroner can return a verdict of suicide, moving from the criminal standard to the civil standard. Now suicide can be found as a cause of death based on a balance of probabilities rather than beyond all reasonable doubt.

Last month the Isle of Wight Youth Trust was contacted by 43 young people struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety which made them feel suicidal or had even led them to attempt suicide.

This is reported to be double the number who contacted the organisation during March last year.

The Youth Trust is the largest

independent organisation providing mental health services for young people under the age of 25 on the Isle of Wight and have been in existence for 35 years. They expanded their service in 2005 to help children under 13 and more recently have established a family counselling service and a drugs and alcohol specialist service from qualified and professional counsellors. Young people can refer themselves to the service if aged over 13, under that age they will need the consent of a parent/ guardian.

Islander Jed Dwight spoke to the Isle of Wight Observer last year to mark Suicide Prevention Day in September.

He movingly told how he lost his brother Daniel, on an April morning five and a half years earlier. He described

how his mother woke him to look at a post on his brother’s Facebook page, showing a photograph of the Needles and the simple message ‘I’m sorry’.

Jed went on to say ‘Take a moment to remember that even those who appear strongest on the outside, can be the most fragile on the inside. Start up that conversation with your neighbour, chat to the person you see every day at the bus stop, make sure your nearest and dearest to you know they have someone to talk to.’

It appears that approach is needed now more than ever for the Island’s young people.

The Samaritans provide 24 hour support, every day of the year www.samaritans.org or call 116 123

News

5

“72% of new customer leads were generated through the advertisements we have placed in the Isle of Wight Observer.”

Victoria Howe - Wight Reclamation

6

News

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

Cowes walking tours Historic walking tours of Cowes, organised by fine gifts and homeware shop Joli in the town, in conjunction with Isle of Wight Guided Tours, will be taking place on three dates, April 20, May 4, and May 18.

The walks, conducted by professional guides, will follow the themes of ‘Royalty, Racing and Rigging’, and organisers claim even those familiar with Cowes will learn things they didn’t know about the town’s

past. Tours start at 10.30am from Joli, Bath Road, Cowes. Places are limited, and booking is recommended by phone on (01983) 200124 or 07854 833159.

Other walking trails around Cowes and the Island can be found on mapmywalks.com.

Also don’t forget the Isle of Wight walking festival which takes place between the 4th 19th May 2019, visit isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk for further details.

IW Law Centre fails in core funding bid The Isle of Wight Law Centre's bid for future funding from the Isle of Wight Council has been rejected as the Council claimed that it did not meet the requirements of the tender process.

The Law Centre requested that its core funding should be tendered separately but the IW Council incorporated funds previously received by the Law Centre into an Advice Information and Guidance (AIG) tender. A petition signed by 3,500 people wanted the Law Centre's funding protected.

IW Law Centre manager, Matt Thatcher, said: “The fact that we have been excluded from this tender comes as no surprise to us, and whether we have been excluded by accident or design? I will let the readers make their own minds up on that one!

"We submitted a tender and were rejected in a matter of days, and the Isle of Wight Council knew it was impossible for us to bid for the entire AIG tender, because any organisation

that bids for that tender is forgoing their impartiality and confidentiality, which is something, as a Law Centre, we are not prepared to do.”

The Isle of Wight Law Centre was set up in 2003, following the closure of the Isle of Wight Independent Housing Advice Centre with the aim of providing a joined up approach to social welfare law.

An Isle of Wight Council spokesperson said “ In accordance with the conditions of the tender, clearly set out in the documentation, the Law Centre did not submit a valid response to the tender for the council’s integrated information, advice and guidance services. The invitation to tender stated: “Tenders must be submitted for the whole of the contract. Tenders for only part of the contract will be rejected.” The bid did not meet the full requirement and is, therefore, not able to be further considered as it is deemed non-compliant.

Fire false alarm Mozart’s Requiem Fire engines from across the Island were alerted to a suspected helicopter fire on the helipad at St Mary’s Hospital in Newport, after smoke started to fill the cabin of the helicopter on take-off. The first crews on scene reported the incident as a false alarm.

Following a safety check, the air ambulance then successfully transferred a local man to a mainland hospital.

Project Opera open the build up to Easter with two performances of Mozart’s Requiem, at Newport Minster on Saturday, April 13 at 7pm, and at Holy Trinity church in Bembridge on Sunday, April 14 at 7pm. Tickets cost £15 (Concessions £10, children admitted free), available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/ project-opera or at the door.

5th April 2019

iwobserver

@iwobserver

Fighting for fishing: UKIP MEP to speak in Ventnor The UKIP fisheries spokesperson, Mike Hookem MEP (who comes from a fishing family), is to speak in Ventnor on Monday, April 8, about what he sees as the ‘betrayal’ of the British fishing industry by the current Conservative government. He will be joined on stage by local Isle of Wight fisherman, Geoff Blake.

During the 2016 referendum, the fishing industry dominated the debate time and time again. From flotillas down the Thames and the Humber, to the loud protestations over Edward Heath’s treatment of the sector on joining the EU, the claimed betrayal of Britain’s fishing industry was , in many areas, a key part of the campaign.

Fishing communities say they have more reason to protest than most, having seen jobs decline due to EU policy, their living standards reduce and vessels from across Europe, fish their home waters while local boats are tied up in dock.

However, following the people’s vote to leave the EU, and by default the Common Fisheries Policy, there was a feeling of hope in many coastal communities for the first time in years.

Today, it is claimed, that hope is fading fast.

During the referendum, fishing communities fought back, and the Goverment realised that they needed to listen.

Now, in a move it is said could send many small-scale British fishers to the wall, the Government intend, in the ‘short-term’, to align UK fishing policy with that of the EU. This would be for the duration of the 2-year implementation period and the experience used “as a stepping stone for our future relationship with the EU.” According to Mike Hookem MEP, this all amounts to: “A sell-out of Britain’s fisheries, agreed before the final deal, that will serve as a stepping stone to an even bigger sell-out in the future!

“And it is all very well saying, ‘we will control our waters,’ and that ‘we will leave the CFP.’ “But taking those powers; adopting all the EU’s rules and structures; and opening our seas to equal access, is nothing less than a second betrayal of the fishing industry by a Conservative

Pictured Mike Hookem MEP Government!”

For many small-scale fishers, the reclamation of the 65% of British fishing opportunities used by EU vessels, and the creation of an exclusive economic zone, represents their only lifeline. We already have a situation where 97% of fishing opportunities are taken by a mere 11% of the fleet, while the smallscale fishers, who were never allocated quota, go begging.

Mike Hookem continued: “For Gove to offer the inshore fleet a few extra fish to catch, while EU based flagships and a few of the big boys in the British industry continue to take the lionsshare, is insulting. Any fool can see that an industry dominated by a select few, while the majority go begging, is neither productive for coastal communities nor sustainable in the long-term.

“Having sat week after week in the European Parliament’s Fisheries Committee, I can tell you that the EU has made it plain they have no intention of releasing their grip on Britain’s abundant fishing resources. I can also say, with 100% confidence, that the view of the European Parliament’s PECH (fisheries) Committee has not changed one iota throughout the last three years, and the EU-27 fully expect continued access to British waters postBrexit. If anything, the EU is looking forward to strengthening its grip on our waters once British MEPs leave the Parliament, and civil servants, who can

be ridden rough-shod over, represent UK fishing interests.

“Michael Gove is neither naive nor stupid and must already realise that he is selling the British fishing industry down the river! He knows that a 3-year implementation period will involve not only following the EU’s current rules, but also any new laws they cook up, and that many small-scale fishers will quit the industry, or go to the wall as a result.

And don’t expect Labour to help either.

Not only do they want to keep EU mass migration and a Customs Union, but they also want to remain in the Single Market, which will keep British fishers trapped in the CFP forever.

“Therefore, it is up to us – UKIP – the true defenders of Brexit, to oppose a second betrayal of the British fishing industry. While we are often criticised as a single-issue party, the reality is far different. In terms of fishing, we have developed a policy that we think is not just fair to the majority of the industry, but which will serve the country well by making fish stocks a national asset.

“However, it is you in the fishing community that help shape our policy, and it is you we must listen to when others don’t. So, please come along to the Winter Gardens in Ventnor and have your say.”

The Fighting for Fishing meeting, being held at Ventnor Winter Gardens, begins at 7pm, on Monday, April 8.

Don’t forget to secure your green waste bin If you are a householder who has your garden waste collected, just a reminder that the Isle of Wight Council’s Green Garden Waste subscription was due on April 1. If you have used the facility in the past, and wish to renew it, then there is still time, but your green waste is not likely to be collected until you have made your payment. It is £60 for one year, or you can pay £120 to cover two years or £180 to cover three. If you decide you do not want to use the facility any more, then your bin or reusable green garden waste sacks will be collected in the fullness of time.

The annual subscription operates from April 1 to March 31 each year, and the fortnightly kerbside collection service gives you the option of selecting either one large 240-litre green wheeled bin with a distinctive brown lid, or three reusable green garden waste sacks.

As there are no automatic renewal alerts for this service, you are responsible for renewing your annual subscription.

Anyone who has not used the bin or waste sacks facility before, can still apply to the Council, for the collection. But the fee remains at £60 up to next March 31 next year, whenever you begin.

Warren Whitmore’s article and bin Photo: Warren Whitmore

News

7

8

News

Currently we print 16,000 copies and distribute them across the whole Island.

Get your message seen

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

Wolverton hosts Isle of Wight Memorial Ploughing Match

The Isle of Wight Memorial Ploughing Match, which will be attended by almost 100 ploughmen and women, takes place at New Wolverton Farm, Shorwell, on Sunday, April 7. The event features horse drawn ploughs, vintage tractors and their modern equivalents.

It will make for a lovely family day out and will be a rare opportunity to learn about the Isle of Wight's agricultural past and present.

The first Memorial Ploughing Match was held at Mottistone Manor Farm, by kind permission of Todd and Jackie Carder, on Sunday, April 5, 2009. The event was organised to remember four ploughmen, Stephen Hayles, John Attrill, Derek Young and Den Phillips, who sadly all passed away in 2008.

The entrance donations and further funds raised were donated to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice, which amounted

to over £2000 in the first year.

One of the organisers of the Memorial Ploughing Match, Karen Sheath, said: "The ploughing match idea was originally thought up to remember Steve, who was himself a keen ploughman. The passing away of three further ploughmen changed our ideas slightly, and we decided to have one match to remember them all. Everyone has supported the idea as a great way of remembering some very muchloved people. The idea of raising money for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice at the same time, has been greatly received as everyone seems to have known somebody whose lives have been touched by the care shown at the Hospice."

This year’s event will see British horse ploughing champion, Jim Elliott, taking part in the event for the first time.

He will be competing against Martin Kerswell, who won the Memorial Ploughing match in 2018.

Five under-25 ploughmen will be competing in their own champion’s cup, in memory of Alayna Morris.

Alayna, who passed away in November of last year, was a regular attender of Memorial Ploughing matches, and her family are well-known in the Island farming community.

Any money raised on the day will be donated to Island charities, Challenge and Adventure being the main beneficiary. The teams of horses are being sponsored by Red Funnel.

The free-of-charge event begins at 9.30am. Organisers say the entrance to the field on Kingston Road, Shorwell, will be well signposted on the day.

5th April 2019

iwobserver

News

@iwobserver

9

Concerns for 2019 Island Games in Gibraltar

This year, the competition will be held in Gibraltar, with more than 2,000 competitors expected to take part. However, organisers of the event are dealing with increasing anxiety regarding the uncertainty surrounding the UK’s exit from the EU. The Spanish authorities are notorious for regularly creating bureaucratic hold-ups and delays across the Spanish-Gibraltarian border.

The British territory of Gibraltar stepped in to host the games in 2015

Five star rating for Newport Subway The Newport branch of Subway, located on Town Lane, opposite the bus station, has passed its latest hygiene inspection on March 19 with flying colours, achieving a five-outof-five rating, the highest category available.

Inspectors marked standards as “good” in all categories: hygenic food handling, cleanliness and condition of building, and food safety.

The five-star grade marks a massive improvement on the inspection of last April, since when the franchise has been taken over by new owners. However, a previous inspection, in July 2015, had also awarded the

sandwich bar the coveted five grade.

Subway franchise owner, Hugh Wastnage, commented: “After reopening in midDecember, we are delighted to have received a 5-star hygiene rating, following the recent unannounced visit from the environmental health team on the Island. Subway has extremely high operational and food quality standards, which we follow passionately here in Newport, and the recent rating confirms this and can give our customers, old and new, confidence in our restaurant and in the Subway brand.”

after Menorca pulled out of plans to host the games.

The island of Guernsey has already made contingencies, by chartering an aeroplane to make two trips to Gibraltar to ferry competitors, support staff and equipment to the event, instead of using the land border from Spain. However, despite concerns over Brexit, the Isle of Wight’s Island Games team still claims it is prepared for the tournament.

10

News

www.iwobserver.co.uk

Grant for Men in Sheds charity Bembridge Men In Sheds has been awarded nearly £9,000 in grants towards its formation and the establishment of long-term accommodation. Bembridge Men in Sheds was set up last year, with the help

and encouragement of Age UK, to improve the lives of older men who wish to stay active in the community.The money follows successful applications to the National Lottery and the Island’s Wight Aid.

5th April 2019

The Good Vibe House Party launches for the over-25s The Good Vibe House Party launches at The Black Sheep Club Lounge on April 27, promising stonking sounds from the 90s and Noughties. The person behind the party is veteran club DJ, Ian ‘Knocka’ Dore.

The new club night for the over 25s is aimed squarely at the clubbing generation from a bygone era. A recent online survey returned some interesting observations that an over 25s night was wanted. One with an older styled selection of music, a dress code and a happy atmosphere, in a location that was fun, funky and friendly.

Ian enjoyed a stellar career as full time club DJ after leaving the Army and creating such behemoth nights as Dynamite and Casualty. Many will also remember his residencies at Woodys and Temptation, plus guest spots at Slinky, Progress, Ministry of Sound and touring with Miss Money Penny’s.

Ian said: “For some time now, some like-minded friends and I have been mulling this over. We’ve got great records to play but nowhere to play them. It’s not about wanting to reinvent or relive the past. Been there, done that and very good fun it was to. You have to know when to call it a day, and I stopped spinning in clubs in 2010. I’d been going at it full tilt since 1990! This is about having a giggle with friends and throwing some dodgy shapes on the dance floor to some top

quality dance music.”

Some of the finest guest DJs will be on rotation as well as showcasing some new, up-and-coming, Island talent.

DJ Star, one of the Island’s favourite female spinners, kicks off proceedings, having enjoyed sets in Ibiza and on the Island shores at The Balcony amongst other venues. Newcomer, DJ Phathead, takes his first time on the decks with what promises to be an Ibizan styled set of funky floorfillers.

The Good Vibe House Party say: “The hardest thing for a new DJ is to get club experience, so we have created an opportunity. One of the key things is being able to play the room as well as the music. You’re mixing emotions as well as large ones. If anyone aged between 18 and 30 wants to have a crack, get in touch, and we’ll give you a helping hand, and you can become part of it.”

The night also supports the youth radio station, Youth Radio Rocks. A not-for-profit entity, that gives young people and like-minded individuals the opportunity to take part in DJing and Radio broadcasting. 100% of the proceeds will go straight to them for the purchase of new kit and training materials.

Organisers claim: “It’s not about the masses, more for the minority that appreciate making an effort with their togs, love a good hands-in-the-air

anthem, geared firmly towards a more mature clubber. on a night where you can really let your hair down. We were so fortunate to be part of the greatest era clubbing has offered, and so it’s very much a bit of 90s nostalgia.”

5th April 2019

iwobserver

News in brief

Reduced service

News

@iwobserver

11

Island roads kept busy over cold and wet winter

The Island Line was forced to run a reduced service between Ryde Pier Head and Shanklin last week due to a member of signalling staff being taken ill. Only one train was able to operate on the Island Line network.

Gatcombe collision

A road traffic collision at Gatcombe between a car and a motorcycle, close to the site of the former Whitecroft Hospital between Carisbrooke and Chillerton on the outskirts of Carisbrooke, forced a road closure).

No-one was seriously injured in the collision.

Vehicle flips A silver Vauxhall Zafira sustained heavy damage as a result of crashing into a ditch then flipping onto its side on Culver Down, overlooking Sandown Bay. The impact smashed the windows of the vehicle, but fortunately the female driver was not trapped inside and was taken into the care of paramedics.

Around 500 tonnes of salt have been used to keep the Island’s roads as safe as possible in freezing conditions during this year’s winter maintenance season. Island Roads applied the salt during the 23 gritting runs undertaken this winter season, which began at the beginning of November and finished at the end of March.

Though there was a significant ‘snow event’ in January and February, that required roundthe-clock gritting runs, the overall level of snow and ice was less than in previous years, when they averaged around 700 tonnes and 30 runs each year. Not surprisingly, the 2018/19 season was also significantly easier than last year, when the ‘Beast from the East’ contributed to the need for 53 runs, depositing around 1,456 tonnes.

Dave Wallis, Island Roads operation and maintenance manager, said: “Though it has been a quieter year in terms of freezing temperatures and snow, there has nevertheless been some severe weather that has proved extremely challenging. Storm Gareth, for example, brought with it some very wet and windy weather, which had our responder teams particularly busy with fallen trees and other related issues.”

Ian Ward, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member responsible for the Highways Improvement Programme, added: “Island Roads staff and partners are among a great many people who are in action whatever the weather to help keep the Island safe and its transport links open. I would like to thank them again for their efforts this winter.”

Maintenance delays on Wightlink fastcat Wightlink’s annual maintenance and refit programme will continue until Thursday, April 11, after teams identified ‘unforeseen maintenance works’ on board one of their FastCats.

Wightlink apologised for any changes to customers travel plans.

For the latest updates and timetable information please visit www.wightlink. co.uk.

12

News

Elkie cancels concert Illness forced the cancellation of an Elkie Brooks concert at Shanklin Theatre on Saturday night.

A tweet from her official account explained that she had been taken ill with a stomach bug and advised to rest. The concert will be rearranged for later in the year, and Shanklin Theatre has offered to refund those who bought tickets for the performance.

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

If you think modern art is rubbish, you may be right An environmental activist and wanna-be 'artist', labelled a 'fly-tipper' by the Isle of Wight Council, has been speaking about his motivation for producing a so-called ‘art installation’ consisting entirely of rubbish.

Newport man, Broc Silva, made his Dadist composition from rubbish he had painstakingly collected from bushes, verges and footpaths around the Island. He then dumped his 'art-work' on land between Sainsbury's and Halfords in Newport, in an attempt to shame litterbugs blighting the Island landscape.

Broc's 'masterpiece' was cleared away by the IW council on Monday, with philistine Council officials declaring the art work: mere "fly-tipping".

The ‘artist’ himself, Broc, told the IW Observer: “My initial intention was to bag litter from Medina Way (around thirty to forty bags worth) and leave it as an art exhibition, just off the path that leads to the college.

“All the litter found ends on general display until it’s bagged. It is simply easier to hook it from its hiding places before sorting recyclables from litter. The idea of the exhibition was to show just how much is being dumped.

“So far, I have tidied parts of Medina Way, the banks either side of the tunnel beneath Medina Way. I constructed the art exhibition by Sainsbury’s and have cleared a little along the road next to Sainsbury’s.

“Whilst clearing up I have received many really positive remarks. People have been so nice; stopping to chat and

encouraging me that what I’m doing is of value. I’ve received a number of offers of help.

“Littering is not cool. It’s not glamorous. Litter is vile, stinking and repulsive. Bin it, recycle what you can, do the right thing: love your island.”

Chillerton and Gatcombe project complete with nine walks Chillerton and Gatcombe Parish Council have initiated a community project to develop directions for a series of walks in an exceptional example of unspoiled countryside.

During the Chillerton and Gatcombe ‘Scarecrow Festival’ in 2017, it was noted that several visitors enquired whether there was any information available about the villages and their surroundings. Over a period of about

14 months, local volunteers created guidelines for a number of walking routes. Towards the end of last year, the directions for nine ‘circular walks’ had been submitted. The Parish Council have been successful in obtaining a Lottery Grant to part fund the printing of leaflets.

The downloadable ‘Walks’ are now available on the Chillerton and Gatcombe Parish Website,

chillertonandgatcombe.org , and the first leaflets will be on view on April 27 at a Parish ‘thank you’ cream tea for all those involved in the project. The official launch of the Chillerton and Gatcombe Walks will take place during the Isle Of Wight Walking Festival, between May 4 and 19, when visitors will join guided parties on five of the routes developed during the project.

Exciting new branding for Medina Valley launched An exciting new brand has been launched for the Medina Valley, to position the area as a diverse, accessible and naturally beautiful destination. A vibrant logo has been created and useful information compiled, to celebrate the unique characteristics of the area.

Medina Valley is made up of six parishes – Cowes, East Cowes, Gurnard, Newport, Northwood and Whippingham.

The brand has been developed for local organisations, to support and enhance their marketing and will be freely available to use. Graham Biss, from the Medina Valley Coastal Communities Team that leads the project, said: “This is not a commercial brand. Its purpose is to help raise the profile of the whole area and show what a fantastic destination this is. Now we hope that businesses will use this brand as part of their marketing.”

Five distinctive themes will be used

to highlight the rich and varied assets within the Valley. Thy are: *10 Minutes to Tranquillity emphasises the proximity of natural beauty and the ease of getting around. *Scenic Hues of Blues and Greens focuses on the estuary, coast and natural environment. *The Island’s Royal Quarter covers the long-established links with the monarchy, with a particular focus on Queen Victoria. *Industry and Innovation highlights the pioneering maritime and industrial heritage, past and present. *Our Idea of Fun summarises the recreational activities and entertainment available both on and off the water.

Will Myles, Managing Director of Visit Isle of Wight, said: “This area has outstanding potential, and there’s

such a variety of things to see and do, including spotting rare wildlife; relaxing, walking and cycling by the river; enjoying our amazing history and industrial heritage; and everything our county town has to offer. We wish this project every success.”

5th April 2019

iwobserver

News

@iwobserver

Security breach at primary school Two new Foodbanks launched on Island It will be easier for Islanders to help vulnerable local families after new Foodbank collection points were launched this week. Nonperishable food and other items can now be donated at the Havenstreet Community Centre, St Peter’s Church and Holy Cross Church in Binstead following work

by Havenstreet and Ashey Parish Council.

Chair of the Council, Veronica Hattersley, said ‘The generosity of local residents, both in donating much needed items as well as their time, is greatly appreciated, and we know this project will help support countless vulnerable individuals and families’.

A food share point has also been set up at the Co-op food store in East Cowes, by new store manager Nick Greenhaigh.

On the installation of the new collection basket he commented ‘I look forward to working to help support the Isle of Wight food bank in East Cowes, a great local charity and valuable support to the local people’.

The Isle of Wight Foodbank issues a list each month of what is most needed. This month they are in short supply of coffee, squash, rice and sponge puddings, tinned fruit and toiletries including razors, toothbrushes and toilet rolls.

A primary school in Ryde has been forced to write to parents and guardians after discovering that personal information, such as children’s names, dates of birth, addresses and general school records, may have been accessed by an unknown third party.

Haylands Primary School in Ryde has disclosed that it had discovered a number of previous unauthorised log-ins to the school’s servers, following the discovery of a malware virus on the school’s IT system. Although the server had been locked down, security improved and the malware removed, the school has said that a data breach could not be ruled out.

Hampshire Constabulary have been made aware of the incident and are conducting an investigation. The incident has also been reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office.

The head of the school, Mrs Nicholson, was unable to provide further information while the Police investigation was ongoing, but thought it “very sad” that a primary school should be cyber-attacked in such a manner.

Anyone concerned about a breach of their child’s information has been urged to contact the school on dataprotect@haylands.iow. sch.uk .

13

News in brief Four-Vehicle collision A four-vehicle collision in Apse Heath at lunchtime on Saturday, involving a Triumph motorcycle, a Daihatsu Terios, a Jeep Cherokee and a Chevrolet Matiz, led to the airambulance evacuation of a 58-year-old Sandown motorcyclist to a mainland hospital with serious injuries.

The collision, which occurred on Newport Road, between the Morrison’s roundabout and the roundabout at Raj’s Premier, also resulted in a car driver being taken to St Mary’s Hospital by land ambulance.

14

News

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

Appeal by Museum to help bring iconic CC7 back home Wight Aviation Museum has announced that an iconic Cushoncraft is to return to the Isle of Wight. The museum says that through a combination of donations and a generous loan, they have been able to secure the Britten-Norman CC7 Cushioncraft XX102, the second last ever to be built. But they still need your help!

CC7 was in service with the 200 Hovercraft Squadron of Royal Corps of Transport from the late 1960s, and was used around the world before being transferred to the Royal Navy Hovercraft Trials Unit in 1972. It remained in military service unil the early 1980s.

Trustee offcials say they are grateful to their ardent supporters who have already raised £1,100 through direct donations, including Gift Aid, to finance the project. That amount will be used to cover the cost of transport from a location near RAF Coningsby, Lincolnshire,. They have also secured free ferry crossing back to the Island from another supporting heritage organisation.

The Museum will be putting the CC7 on public display at Sandown Airport as soon as they are able. But they still need help to raise further funds to purchase and fully restore ‘this Island-built marvel of engineering’.

John Kenyon, Chair of Trustees of Wight Aviation Museum, says around £15,000 needs to be raised to cover all the costs

The CC7 Cushioncraft alongside other experimental vehicles involved.

Anyone wishing to help financially can donate, commission free, through link: https://mydonate.bt.com/events/ wightaviationmuseum/479553

Birthday celebrations in support of local charity A local charity employee and her partner have celebrated their 50th birthdays in a unique way, by raising £435.00 for the charity where she works.

Helen Randall is employed

by Age UK Isle of Wight, a local community charity dedicated to supporting Islanders aged 50-plus.

Helen and her partner Mark, who had also recently turned 50, decided to celebrate their 50th birthdays by inviting friends and family to their fundraising party at The Bargeman’s Rest in Newport, and to donate to the charity, rather than buy Helen gifts for her upcoming birthday.

The couple’s party, which included a disco, was a resounding success.

Information on the services and support offered by Age UK Isle of Wight was made

available for guests, along with collection buckets and a charity raffle. In all, 80 people came to the disco.

Helen and Mark said: “We wanted to do something worthwhile to celebrate our big birthdays, and both agreed that having a fundraiser for Age UK Isle of Wight would be a great plan.

Lots of our friends and family gave generous donations and kindly provided raffle prizes.

There was such a lovely atmosphere, and it was a really memorable evening”.

The money raised will be used for an activity to support those who attend Age UK Isle of Wight’s three Active Minds Social Clubs; welcoming and friendly social clubs for those wishing to keep their minds active.

Groups are held weekly in Newport, Lake and Ryde.

Red Jet 3 sets sail for sunnier climes Following more than 20 years of sailing the Solent, Red Funnel’s hi-speed passenger catamaran ferry, Red Jet 3, will be sailing in sunnier climates and warmer waters, following a recent purchase by a Croatian ferry company. Setting off to her new home, Red Jet 3 was lifted out of the water in Southampton and hoisted onto a marine freight forwarder, where she will be transported to Croatia.

Red Jet 3, which was built in Cowes on the Isle of Wight by FBM Marine in 1998, will be affiliated with Adriatic Fast Ferries Ltd and sail under the new name Adriatic Express, which is yet to be confirmed. Within her new service, Red Jet 3 will be operating in the Split region of Croatia, where she will be serving passengers on a brand-new multi-leg route.

Alan Klanac, director of the buyers, said: “When we heard that Red Funnel was selling Red Jet 3, we jumped at the chance. She’s a super vessel, and her capacity and size are perfect for what we had in mind. I first visited Red Funnel in the summer of 2017 and had the opportunity to stay in West Cowes. Red

Funnel is a trusted ferry provider, and I was very impressed with the warm welcome from its staff and its operations.

“Red Jet 3 is going to have a busy summer season, catering for thousands of tourists visiting the Croatian islands off Split.

We envision the service being extremely popular, as it will offer passengers a quick and convenient way to reach the islands, direct from Split airport. I’m delighted to be taking over Red Jet 3, and I extend a warm welcome to all her faithful passengers over the years, to come and say hello to her on the Adriatic.”

Red Funnel CEO, Fran Collins, added: “Red Jet 3 was one of our original Solent Class HiSpeed catamaran ferries and has transported millions of passengers across the Solent over the last two decades. She has been a great vessel and is a well-loved member of the Red Funnel ferry family. We hope Adriatic Fast Ferries Ltd enjoy many years of sailing.”

Red Funnel will now have three Red Jet HiSpeed catamarans deployed in the UK on its cross-Solent ferry route.

MicroEye gives new insight into Island hidden ecology Some of the Island’s million years of natural history is being brought into sharp focus thanks to the Common Space, a not-for-profit organisation working to revitalise public land and buildings by putting them to greater community use.

Using a high-powered microscope called a MicroEye, purchased with grant money from Island Roads’ IW Foundation, the Common Space is giving people of all ages a whole new insight into the Island’s hidden ecology.

The MicroEye was unveiled for the first time during the Discovery Bay event held at Dinosaur Isle to coincide with British Science Week.

The event featured a pop-up laboratory and featured over a 120 million years of natural history, with everything from dinosaur fossils to aquariums busy with modern day pond-life, run by teams at: the Common Space, Arc, Artecology and the National Poo Museum. The event was hosted by Dinosaur Isle.

Around 150 people of all ages,

Island residents and visitors alike, attended.

Claire Hector, of Arc and the Common Space, said: “This is the first of our nature and science events this year and the first outing for our amazing new microscope.

We were really happy to see how successful the MicroEye was in bringing the weird and wonderful natural treasures to the attention of visitors.

“Everything from seahorses and moth wings to soil and living moss gardens were all supersized to widescreen, helping to transform how we see and think about everyday wildlife.”

Island Roads structures project manager, Joanne Saunders, who supported The Common Space through their application for IW Foundation grant funding, also attended the Discovery Bay event.

Joanne said: “It was great to see the grant money being put to such good use inspiring young children and families to take a real interest in the natural world around them.”

5th April 2019

iwobserver

News

@iwobserver

Italian Touch present £2,000 cheque to Mountbatten

Local business, Italian Touch, has presented a cheque of over £2,000 to Mountbatten. Sharon Hinallas, of Italian Touch, said: “The money was raised by selling items left in our store at the end of the season. We also raised further funds by selling refreshments to our clients. We donated the whole amount raised (£2,125) to Mountbatten.

“Our event was scheduled for March 6 to 8 but ran for an extra day. It was a great success for ourselves, our clients and for Mountbatten. Our clients were able to ‘purchase’ beautiful pieces for an exceptional cause.

“We always support Mountbatten as it is a place that offers and delivers exceptional care and is very close to

all our hearts. Mountbatten costs over £20,000 a day to run and as they receive no government assistance, it is funded only by donations.

“It has been nearly a year since we packed our rails and moved from our lovely old shop in Ryde to our new home in Wootton. It was an anxious time, tinged with a little sadness, but we have been made to feel very welcome in our new community and the building is so much better. We even have parking!”

Sharon continued: “When we moved, we took the opportunity to look at our brand and give it a makeover, and we feel it now reflects what Italian Touch means to us and our little family of regular visitors. The circular logo

encompasses what we are all about: the circle representing life, hearts representing our love of fashion and community and the star in the centre representing something special and everlasting.

“At the heart of everything we do is a caring attitude to our community on the Island. A big part of this is our fundraising for local causes, and since moving to our new home we have continued our fundraising efforts for Mountbatten. We are proud that our most recent event culminated in a cheque for over £2,000! This is thanks to the generosity of our caring Italian Touch family.”

Drama on Culver Cliff Two men in their 20s, one from the Island and one from the mainland, escaped uninjured after getting stuck half-way up Culver Cliff, between Sandown and Bembridge.

The two men had been attempting to walk from Yaverland to Whitecliff Bay when they got cut off by the tide.

Realising they were in an extremely dangerous predicament, they started to climb up the cliff but got stuck at about 150ft.

The men are thought to have called the Police, who in turn alerted the Fire and Rescue Service and HM Coastguard.

Several fire appliances, a number of paramedics, together with a Coastguard rescue helicopter from Lee-on-Solent, all then rushed to the scene, while Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat kept a close watch on the developing situation from the sea.

The alarm is believed to have been raised at around 8.30pm, shortly after darkness fell.

By 9pm, both men had been winched

to safety from their precarious position half-way up the cliff and landed into the care of Coastguard Rescue Officers from Bembridge on Culver Down. Thankfully, neither of the men were injured and both then made their way home with

relatives after their ordeal.

The MCA have warned locals and tourists not to climb cliffs unless they are trained, well-equipped and know that the cliffs are stable.

15

New deputy for Cowes Harbour Master Cowes Harbour Commission, harbour authority for the Isle of Wight’s main commercial, ferry and yachting port, has appointed Jonathan Howden as Deputy Harbour Master.

Jon will assist the Harbour Master with the Commission’s day-today compliance with all aspects of the Port Marine Safety Code and associated statutory legislation, as well as training to become a Cowes Pilot.

Before starting his seafaring training and career, Jon worked ashore for 14 years at Ericsson Telecommunication Ltd, the UK division of Ericsson’s global operations. During this time, he undertook several roles from software development and testing to

multi-national project and product management.

After completing his maritime training, Jon spent 10 years working offshore on wind farm and telecoms cable installations and repairs around the world, and has extensive professional seagoing experience.

He lives in East Cowes with his wife and young daughter, and said: “My family and I are very settled on the Island, having lived here for 14 years, and we intend to stay here indefinitely. I am much looking forward to playing a part in the life of Cowes Harbour, meeting and working with local people on a daily basis and contributing to the harbour and local community.”

16

Advertising

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

5th April 2019

iwobserver

News

@iwobserver

Mountain bikers tested on 7 Hills challenge Over 180 mountain bikers took on the legendary 7 Hills challenge, organised and hosted by GP Sport and Wight Mountain.

Clear blue skies and unusually warm temperatures greeted riders as they assembled in Freshwater Bay, with bacon rolls and coffee being served from Freshwater Independent Lifeboat station.

Local participants were joined by riders from around the country who were attracted by the challenge provided by completing a full traverse of the Island.

After a safety briefing at the lifeboat station, the event got underway at 10am, with riders going uphill almost immediately as they climbed up the Military Road out of the bay. On to Afton Down for the long climb up through the golf course, with stunning views as a backdrop. Following the Tennyson Trail east, Afton Down was followed by climbs up Chessell Down, then Limerstone Down, after which, by special permission, the course took in an exhilarating new

section of downhill trail at the IOW MTB Centre. After a brief stop at a checkpoint at Cheverton Farm came the climb up towards the mast at Chillerton which was followed by another long downhill section towards Chale.

The midway checkpoint was located at Gotten Manor, and was a chance for participants to rehydrate and refuel on homemade cakes, sandwiches, sweets and other assorted goodies. From Gotten Manor, a steep technical climb up St Catherine’s Down took riders to the Hoy Monument, before dropping back down to Whitwell where a section of road took them on to the bottom of Stenbury Down. From Stenbury, participants descended towards Ventnor, before the last steep climb up Wroxall Down towards Ventnor Radar Station.

Finally ending with a long descent into Shanklin and on to the finish line at Sandown Airport.

A barbecue awaited the finishers at the Island Bistro, where trail stories were exchanged and aching legs were rested.

Plans are already in place for a 2020 event.

17

Have your say on cancer support

Wessex Cancer Trust, a charity dedicated to providing free and local emotional and practical support for anyone living with cancer, has launched a major piece of research, in partnership with Bournemouth University, to find out what local people need most in terms of cancer support.

The results will put the views and experiences of patients, carers and healthcare professionals at the heart of shaping cancer support services on the Isle of Wight and in Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire.

Experts will survey hundreds of local people, aged between 10 and 100, who have any type of cancer at any stage, as well as families and friends affected by cancer and major stakeholders including local hospitals, local authorities, other charities and hospices.

Questions will include: What do people affected by cancer worry about or need? What gaps do service providers feel need to be filled? And what

do families and friends need in terms of support?

Bournemouth University researchers will then analyse the responses to help Wessex Cancer Trust build up an accurate picture of need and make sure local people receive the best possible support from the charity.

Launching the survey, Wessex Cancer Trust’s CEO, Cait Allen, said: “As a regional charity, we have the flexibility and freedom to tailor our services to our own unique populations, and that’s how we’ve been able to provide very specific and relevant support to people affected by cancer in our local area. We’re committed to evolution and innovation, and this new research will help us develop our services to directly address local need.”

Anyone wishing to have their say on the future of cancer support services provided by Wessex Cancer Trust should visit http:// www.bournemouth.ac.uk/ wct-feedback

New Lord Lieutenant Oyez, Oyez...oh no! launches new library The Island's new Lord Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon, launched Shanklin's new community library project at Falcon Cross Hall, Shanklin. Plans for the new library were unveiled, with Shanklin Town Council allocating over £100,000 for the project, which includes improved book displays, development of specialist information areas, including a Shanklin section, tourist Information resources, and links to a new Town Office.

Also at the event were High Sheriff, Mrs Gioia Minghella-Giddens; Chair of IW Council, Lora Peacey-Wilcox; Shanklin Mayor, Esther Knight; Sandown Mayor, Jacquie Mereweather; and Lake Parish Chair, Sue Horton.

The Launch was a unique occasion, as it is thought this is the first time that the civic leaders of any County in the Country are all female, and to commemorate the occasion local students at St Blasius Primary Academy designed commemorative mugs for the Civic Leaders.

The launch also saw the unveiling of a new World War commemorative walk, researched

by students of St Blasius, and dedicated to residents that made the ultimate sacrifice. It was attended by relations of Charles William Martin – remembered on Shanklin's Cenotaph – including two-month-old Benjamin Priest, Mr Martin's great-great nephew.

Library co-ordinator, Maria Darbon, said: "All of our volunteers are looking forward to working in a more central location, and we will be asking our members what types of services they would like to see provided when we move. One of our younger members, Adam Farley, has even written to the Libraries Minister asking for support for the project."

Shanklin Mayor, Esther Knight, said: "We are delighted that the launch of the project is our new Lord Lieutenant's first engagement, and we will invite Mrs Sheldon to officially open the new amenity when it is finished later this year. The Town Council funded the renovation of the War Memorial and repair of the Town Clock, and this is our next major project, to be located alongside Falcon Cross Hall and our nationally acclaimed Public Amenities.”

Steve King will be retiring as Ryde's Town Crier on April 24, following a decade of service to the community. He will shortly be hanging up his bell and regalia and will focus solely on being the Town Crier for the City of Southampton.

The traditional call, ‘Oyez, Oyez’ used by town criers is to attract attention to public proclamations. It descends from Anglo-Norman which used to be the language of the English upper classes. It means ‘hear ye, hear ye.’.

Steve told the IW Observer: "I have been at 10 Ryde carnivals, at the front of Ryde Main, Children's and Illuminated; and have also attended scooter weekends and classic car events."

King has taken part in thirteen Town Crier competitions, the last being at Windsor castle. It's not known whether there will be a replacement.

18

Letters

www.iwobserver.co.uk

Holmesy!

The David Holmes Column

5th April 2019

Island Soapbox Send your letters into us newsdesk@iwobserver.co.uk or post them to us IW Observer, Suite 6, 17 St.Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in these letters are not those held by the IW Observer or its staff.

They belong to the author and the author alone - Letters must be no longer than 500 words please.

Controversial cone

Social media is not so social, so just lighten up Do you think Boris Johnson plays scrabble?

I just heard him use the word convoke, the kind of word you hope to get on a tripleletter score but won’t hear in everyday language. I love Boris and think he’d make an excellent PM. Others loathe him with a passion.

He’s constantly abused on social media.

Leftie Radio phone-in presenters attack him constantly for getting stuck on a zipwire and the failed London bridge scheme.

All fair. But they also pile in on his love life. Unfair.

It’s not just him though, is it? We live in an impolite world. Politicians, right, left and centre are routinely subjected to hostility, anger and even hatred. Jo Cox was murdered for goodness sake, and currently some MPs say they are scared to go out, because abuse is endemic and uncalled for.

We are all cross, but we need to reduce the temperature.

When did you last look at comments on local news sites?

The IW Scurry is a horsey event. It’s taken place in the island countryside for over a hundred years. Once a year, people gather at Ashey either to ride or spectate.

I went a few years ago, to watch people of all ages do what they obviously love doing, ride horses.

It never occurred to me that I was being controversial, it was just a social thing.

Unfortunately, at this year’s event, a horse landed awkwardly and broke a leg. The onsite vet was there to quickly end its suffering. The hapless horse was euthanised. Those who saw it happen were naturally upset, and the owner was devastated. That should have been that, a ghastly accident, followed by private grief.

But, Oh no! When it was reported online, all hell broke loose! Internet posters piled in, angrily slamming the event and horse riding more generally.

The local Hunt got dragged in too,

although actually hunting foxes was banned years ago, not that you’d know if you read social media comments. People now routinely believe everything they see on their Facebook feed, and, of course, they also feel compelled to join in, making or repeating wild accusations about anything at all, typically politics, animals, the environment, wicked-corporations and, worryingly, even the dire consequences of vaccines.

One person responded to the horse incident by saying: “Wishing the rider was dead instead.” Others agreed with the sentiment! Whatever you think about horse riding, wishing a rider dead is completely disproportionate, beyond the pale. Allowing comment on reported story means swiftly removing any that breach guidelines or common decency, but it’s not easily done without huge resources, and so we must urgently find another way to deal with online venom.

I use my iPhone constantly, mostly for work and communication.

As a ferry commuter, it’s a valuable tool, and frankly it helps pass the time. I do look at and comment on social media.

G e t t i n g involved in the world around you, being better informed, is a very good thing, provided you don’t just accept what you read at face value, because the real world is far more complex than that. After a long dreary winter, our beautiful Island has burst into life, Spring has finally sprung, the clocks have gone forward, the birds are singing, and, at last, we all have the option of being outside on sunnier days. So come on, let’s ease-up on the internet, on commenting, on baiting idiot politicians, including those who would thrash you at scrabble.

“Being better informed, is a very good thing, provided you don’t just accept what you read at face value.”

St Mary’s Hospital controversial Cone is ironically quite symbolic. A pyramid structure that mechanically has never worked properly.

So, where is the problem? In simple terms, the inner workings are disproportionately large.

St Mary’s is a small hospital, and small can be beautiful, but it is hampered by an overcomplicated internal gearbox of Executives, Directors, Deputy Directors etc etc, all protecting and greasing each other’s backs while frantically chasing non-existent efficiencies and savings on the surface.

Medically, the exciting breadth of colours visible to the public need to be preserved and cherished for islanders to enjoy for years to come, rather than the current preoccupation with seeking to repair a faulty, overcomplicated, internal mechanism, that is never going to be fit for purpose given the diminutive size of the structure.

Hans Bromwich, Cowes

Call a halt to 5G wireless technology Thousands of scientists across the globe are urging a moratorium on the roll-out of 5G Wireless Technology on Earth and in space. At the same time, Vodafone has declared that it is preparing the Isle of Wight for 5G roll-out.

This despite the fact that the Isle of Wight Council has promised public consultations on the issue before any implementation.

5G will mean 24/7 mandatory exposure to pulsed millimeter wave radiation beamed at us from every other lamp post. Scientists warn that 5G wireless technology will pose a serious risk of harm to public health and the environment, and many Islanders are concerned that it is being rolled out across the country without due diligence: without any strategic health or environmental impact assessments. It is also being rolled out without public consent, which is a breach of human rights enshrined in UN Law. If you are concerned as well, then Islanders are making a stand this Saturday, April 6, at 12 noon at St James’ Square in Newport.

There will also be a second 5G Information and Discussion Meeting on Sunday, April 14, in the Unitarian Meeting House, opposite County Hall, in Newport. All are welcome!

Please stop this rape of the Solent The rape of the Solent continues. Different time, different species. There are now hundreds of cuttlefish traps up throughout the Solent. If this over-fishing is not stopped, the Solent will be irreversibly changed because all of these species depend on one another in one way or another. Most of these cuttlefish are sold abroad and are fished for profit with little or no concern for our local highly diverse and lovely seabed, and, of course, out of sight to most people.

Mervyn William

MP’s should represent constituents Dear Editor, With reference to the letter from Mrs. Anne Henry-James, offering her full support to Seldom-See- Seely. MPs are supposedly elected to represent their constituents, not as Mrs Henry-James says, to support a particular deal by their party leader. Sadly, Mr. Seely has shown himself to be more interested in ingratiating himself with Mrs May, than representing the majority electorate on the Isle of Wight.

A failure that will be addressed at the next General Election.

Nathan Brazil, Ryde

New Chairman does not inspire confidence Regarding your letter ‘New Chairman gives Confidence’, I am not sure I share the writers optimism.

Mr Vaughan Thomas was one of the very few members of the previous discredited administration, which ran the IW NHS Trust into Special Measures to survive, and somewhat miraculously became the Trusts new Chairman.

With the Trust now additionally entering ‘Financial Special Measures’, it is time for Mr Thomas to vacate his post and gracefully leave the Trust.

There needs to be a genuinely ‘new’ team at the helm.

Shaun Phillips, Newport

Tanja Katarina Rebel, Cowes

An Island nightmare In a world where the Government doesn’t care for its people and merely views them as a commodity to commercially exploit in their productive years and then abandon, the NHS, which accounts for a quarter of Government spending and public money, is far too rich a prize not to be exploited and plundered by 'friends' in the private sector.

How does an island, that over the years has lost three hospitals and is down to just one,

effectively lose its final one? You rack up an unsustainable deficit while placing staff under intolerable working conditions and quietly watch as services decline. You then offer the Island population a way out, by saying treatment would be so much better elsewhere on the mainland.

Tommy S, Freshwater

5th April 2019

iwobserver

Letters

@iwobserver

Sun glare behind Red Falcon crash A Maritime Accident Investigation has found sun glare to have been a major contributory factor in the collision between Red Funnel’s Red Falcon and the motor cruiser Phoenix.

The report stated that the glare of the sun had apparently been so strong that the crew were unaware they had collided with another vessel.

On the afternoon of September 29, Red Falcon and the privately-owned motor cruiser, Phoenix collided just off Calshot in the Solent. Both vessels were heading for Cowes. The collision saw the Phoenix pinned against the ferry’s bow for some 18 seconds, resulting in serious damage to the motor cruiser, which was later escorted into

effectively monitor the radar display, given the bridge layout and the adverse impact of the sun on their vision. The officers had remained seated, and the report stated it would have been appropriate for at least one of the bridge team to have stood up to check blind spots and the radar.

It was confirmed that Red Falcon’s master and chief officer were unaware of the collision with Phoenix until a passenger reported the incident to on board staff. Once back at East Cowes, the ferry’s CCTV footage was assessed, even though the bridge team believed Red Falcon had not been involved in a collision.

After footage of the collision had been

Wightlink wear whacky hats for brain tumour research

Wightlink staff Travis Cooper, Lisa Thurbon, Chezvik Fernandes, Shaun Chadwick, Bob Sait Wightlink customers were greeted by an unusual sight, when staff donned weird and whacky headgear for Wear a Hat Day in aid of brain tumour research. From homemade creations to hats fit for a day at the races, staff entered into the spirit of the event, to help raise funds for life-saving research into the condition. Staff also held a Mad Hatters’ Tea Party, and colleagues shared cakes and bakes during break times to raise additional funds.

Marketing and Innovation Director, Stuart James, said: “We wanted to get involved in this hat-tastic event to do our bit to raise money for Brain Tumour Research which undertakes incredibly important research.

Sue Farrington Smith MBE, Chief Executive

port by Cowes RNLI lifeboat. Red Falcon was not damaged, but Phoenix was declared a complete loss by insurers.

The investigation has identified that the lookout on both Red Falcon and Phoenix was solely by eye. However, Red Falcon’s bridge team did not see the motor cruiser on the starboard bow due to their focus on a sailing vessel close on the port side. Phoenix was also obscured by the sun’s glare. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the lookout on board Red Falcon’s bridge was reduced because the master and chief officer remained seated and the bridge window sun screens had not been lowered.

The report stated that the ferry’s master was wearing sun shades over prescription spectacles, and that the sun blinds which had not been lowered. Replay of the CCTV recordings showed that Phoenix emerged from the sun’s glare only 14 seconds before it was lost from view. It is likely that view of the master and chief officer of Phoenix and its wake had been obscured by the window frames on the bridge.

In addition, neither officer was able to

found, a check was made for damage, which identified marks and debris on the ship’s forward belting. The ferry then sailed for Southampton, where its master and chief officer tested negatively for drug and alcohol use.

The investigation also found that before departing for Cowes, the group on board Phoenix had eaten at a pub lunch, during which the owner had consumed two pints of beer. However, the 56-year-old owner of Phoenix appeared to have been coherent and not under the influence of alcohol.

Following the accident, a Red Funnel internal investigation identified several areas of navigational watchkeeping practice to be improved, with recommendations made concerning bridge manning, bridge watchkeeping procedures, the use of window blinds and the positioning of radar displays. A circular was also issued to all staff warning of the dangers of repetitive tasks.

Investigations by the Marine Accident Investigation into another collision involving one of Red Funnel’s ferries is ongoing.

Spring clean for Ryde beach The Respect Ryde Project has got off to a flying start in making the town presentable for the expected influx of summer visitors.

Around 60 Ryde residents gathered at Appley beach café on Saturday for a beach clean, filling scores of bags with that which thoughtless litterbugs have left behind.

Southern Vectis also played their part, by giving the bus

station a well-needed scrub.

Organiser of the Respect Ryde Project, Cllr Karen Lucioni said: "Thank you to all those who have been involved with The Respect Ryde Project this week! Island roads/environmental for sorting the fly tipping. Southern Vectis for jet washing the bus station.

"Everyone who came to get involved with the spring

clean of the beach and seafront.

"The girls who cleaned up a piece of land in their street "And the lovely young girl I met yesterday at the beach clean, who has written to her head teacher about her worry that dog mess on the ground is getting worse and wants to help to address it."

19

of Brain Tumour Research, said: “We are so grateful to Wightlink for supporting our Wear A Hat Day, their donations will help fund vital research. Brain tumours are indiscriminate; they can affect anyone at any age. What’s more, they kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet historically just one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to this devastating disease.

“Brain Tumour Research is proud to be changing this. We are building a network of experts in sustainable research at dedicated Centres of Excellence while influencing the Government and larger cancer charities to invest more nationally. Help us fund the fight. Together we will find a cure.”

20

Entertainment

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

THE OBSERVER GUIDE MEDINA THEATRE Some Guys Have All The Luck : Rod Stewart Story 50 years on from the release of Rod’s first album, Some Guys Have All The Luck, The Rod Stewart Story is back in theatres in 2019 with a brand new show, bringing to the stage a fantastic live concert celebration of one of rock music’s greatest icons.

Frontman, Paul Metcalfe, is incredible as Rod and captures all the excitement, energy and charisma of the legendary performer, including the infamous moves, showmanship and sense of fun that have made Rod one of the most successful artistes of all time.

Show Date: Saturday, April 6, 7.30pm -------------------------------------

LDN Wrestling The UK’s premier touring British wrestling organization, putting on family entertainment events all around the country.

Show Date: Sunday, April 7, 7.30pm -------------------------------------

Roy Chubby Brown Roy Chubby Brown is back, and he’s as naughty as ever. His choice of language and his politically incorrect jokes are all delivered with a cheeky grin and perfect comedy timing.

His trademark flying helmet and goggles, coupled with his coat of many patches, make him instantly recognisable as the man who put the “F” in Alice, with his popular version of ‘that’ song.

Show Date: Thursday, April 11, 7.30pm -------------------------------------

The Vamps and Busted to headline new festival The Vamps and Busted are to headline a new festival that will take place on he Island this summer. Dick and Dom’s The Great Wonderfest will kick-start the summer festival season, between August 1 and 4.

There seems uncertainty about whether the Eklectica music festival taking place this year at Robin Hill Country Park. Eklectica was set up when Bestival moved off the Island, but unlike previous years, there has been no announcement about possible dates or acts.

Despite several attempts to contact Vectis Ventures, the parent company of Robin Hill and Blackgang Chine, no response was forthcoming.

Whatever Eklectica’s future, Wonderfest will rock the Island.

Busted are an English rock band from Southend-on-Sea. Formed in 2000, the band have had four UK number-one singles, won two Brit awards and have released four studio albums, selling in excess of five million records.

Busted’s fourth album, Half Way There, was released on February 1.

The Vamps are a British pop

The VAMPS

Hunt for Easter eggs with IW National Trust

The Drifters The Drifters were created in 1953 by George Treadwell & Clyde McPhatter. George Treadwell managed the group and laid the foundation of what would make The Drifters one of the greatest groups of all time.

Clyde McPhatter was the lead singer of the group that also saw numerous members over the years but two others stood out above the rest. Johnny Moore and Ben E King.

Performing their hits such as Under The Boardwalk, Like Sister & Brother, Up On The Roof, Saturday Night At The Movies, Come On Over To My Place,Save The Last Dance For Me and many more...

The Drifters delivered numerous hits on both sides of the Atlantic that saw them inducted into the ‘Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’ in 1988.

Show Date: Friday, April 12, 7.30pm

rock band formed in 2012 and signed to Mercury Records (now Virgin EMI Records) in November of that year. In 2017, they scored their first number 1 on the Official UK Albums Chart with Night & Day. Their first two albums, Meet The Vamps and Wake Up are both certified Gold in the UK. In 2018, guitarist McVey participated in the eighteenth series of I’m a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! and finished in fifth place.

They have continuously toured worldwide since their debut in 2012, and they are the first band to headline London’s O2 Arena five years in a row.

Joining them on stage will be Sigma, Example, Conor Maynard, Mistajam and Becky Hill. Retro-vibes will be provided by performances from The Blow Monkeys and Musical Youth.

There will also be a Summer Dance Camp, featuring worldclass dance troupe Flawless, and Robots Live Arena featuring BBC Robot Wars Champion Apollo and Vulcan (King of Bots). Magic, comedy and vaudeville will also play a big part over four days of entertainment.

Painted Easter Eggs

There will be four Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts to choose from at National Trust sites across the Island this spring.

At Bembridge Windmill and the Needles Battery, families will be able to take part in all sorts of outdoors activities that will bring little ones closer to nature throughout the long weekend of April 19 to 21. On two special days, April 21 and 22, there’s a chance for families to use their senses to track down the clues at Newtown or at Mottistone Gardens, and follow the red squirrels through the flowers and shrubs to solve the puzzle.

Each and every visit to a National Trust site helps support the charity’s work in caring for these special places for future generations. Every penny raised from the Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts goes towards looking after National Trust properties.

Each Isle of Wight Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt costs £2 per person, with under-fives free, and normal admission applies. Further information about Cadbury Easter Egg Hunts at National Trust properties across the Island may be found at: www.cadbury. co.uk/easter

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? LET US KNOW BY EMAILING NEWSDESK@IWOBSERVER.CO.UK

5th April 2019

iwobserver

Entertainment 21

@iwobserver

THEATRE AND EVENTS EASTER ACROSS THE ISLAND Own a Pony at Hill Farm This is the perfect easter treat for all pony mad children! Own a pony days are suitable for children age 6+. They get the chance to learn how to groom, tack up and ride.

Bring your own lunch and drink. Receive a certificate and voucher at the end of the day.

So why not give your much loved child a treat during the holidays. They are sure

to fall in love with their pony and go home with lots of special memories from their day at Hill Farm Riding Stables in Freshwater.

Date: 6th - 27th April hillfarmstables.com

Chocofrolica at Blackgang Enrol as a chocolatier and revel in the wonders of the cocoa bean as Blackgang Chine is taken over by Chocofrolica! Dive head first into a giant Chocolate Bubble Bath and search to find the golden bubble... you could win a chocolatey prize!

Race your friends on Bouncy Milk

Cow Hoppers and take on the Honey Bee Quest as you explore the park for your chance to win an extra special chocolatey prize!

Date: 6th - 27th April Tickets from £25.00 - blackgangchine.com

Farm Fest at Robin Hill The world’s most famous sheep and his entire flock are venturing to Robin Hill. Join Shaun the Sheep for the baarilliant Farm Fest for fantastic family fun! Hop on-board for a rumbling tractor ride, spend some time making friends with the farmyard animals in the Touring Petting Farm and test your

skills in Shaun’s Championsheeps Live which includes the Free Range egg and spoon race, Naughty Pig Sack Race, Shirley’s bouncy hopper Pieathlon and plenty more Date: 8th - 22th April Tickets from £25.00 - blackgangchine.com

Hoppy Easter at Tapnell Farm For Easter fun and cuteness, look no further than Tapnell Farm Park this Half Term! There’s lots of egg-cellent activities happening throughout the park. You can help the Keepers look after baby lambs in the twice daily bottle-feeding sessions, as well as join in all our other Animal Encounters

happening throughout the day. Say hello to our little critters in our new Bugs and Beasties show, and of course hand-feed the wonderful mob of Wallabies, and meet the Meerkats!

Date: 5th - 22th April Tickets from £9.50 - tapnellfarmpark.com

Beach Bugs & Bones

Sunday 28th April

11am – 1pm

Best of all, we are now able to say that all this takes place in, on and around Britain’s Best Beach!

The Wall of Floyd Established tribute to Pink Floyd. Made up of 7 core members, with collectively over 75 years of studio and live performance between them, the band aim to sonically reproduce Pink Floyd’s music as accurately as possible with a stage show to match.

The band combine live musical performance with the latest digital technology to perform fan favourites from across Pink Floyd’s back catalogue.

Show Dates: Saturday, April 6, 7:30pm -------------------------------------

Coldplace Tribute to Coldplay Tribute to Coldplay returns in 2019 for another outstanding show celebrating the music of arguably the world’s biggest band. Large video screen projection, lasers and confetti recreate the spectacle of Coldplay’s record breaking A Head Full of Dreams tour; with frontman Shane Crofts’ uncanny resemblance to Chris Martin taking centre stage.

Show Date: Friday April 12, 7:30pm -------------------------------------

Robert White: The Tank Top Tour Robert White wowed the judges and viewers alike with his fast-paced comedy routines when he made the finals on this year’s Britain’s Got Talent. He is now set to bring all that fun you saw on the TV live across the country as he announces his debut UK tour: The Tank Top Tour. With a suitcase full of his trademark vests.

As the only gay, aspergic, quarter-Welsh comic on the British comedy circuit, Britain’s Got Talent has helped to highlight Robert’s distinctive comedy genius.

Robert is known for his brilliant timing and anarchic performance style.

Show Dates: Saturday, April 13, 7:30pm

Loads of great stuff happening on Sandown Bay again this year, including a whole free nature/science/ art calendar- Discovery Bay. Following hot on the tail of our British Science Week pop-ups, and coming up this April is Beach, Bugs and Bones 2019 – it’s the 5th year of this annual Bay free-for-all celebrating wildlife, past and present on our Science Beach and in the ‘Lost Duver’ nature space The Common Space has created beyond it. The event’s fun and informal with its Big Fossil Dig, Beach Gallery and mini-bioblitz and a great showcase for the public realm living field studies guide that the Brown’s area has become!

SHANKLIN THEATRE

-------------------------------------

The Island Savoyards presents My Fair Lady Based on the George Bernard Shaw play Pygmalion, the classic musical, My Fair Lady, is written by Alan Jay Lerner with music by Frederick Loewe. Hailed by critics for its heart and wit, the story follows Eliza Doolittle, a cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from Professor Henry Higgins.

ADVERTISE YOUR LOCAL EVENT HERE! CALL 01983 214261 OR EMAIL EMMA@ IWOBSERVER.COM

Higgins wagers with his linguistics colleague Colonel Pickering that he can transform Eliza into a lady and teach her to speak ‘properly’ in just six months.

Show Dates: April 28, 7:30pm; April 19, 7:30pm; April 20, 2:30pm

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? LET US KNOW BY EMAILING NEWSDESK@IWOBSERVER.CO.UK

22

News

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

More new acts confirmed for Irish Eyes smiling, as Dance Isle of Wight 2019 Festival School celebrates first year The Isle of Wight Festival has announced 10 new acts for this year’s event, which officially kicks off British festival season this summer. Garbage, Keane, Dermot Kennedy, Cage The Elephant, Picture This, Ward Thomas, Wet Wet Wet, Björn Again, Feet and The Marcus King Band are now confirmed to play the festival across the long weekend of June 13 to 16 at Seaclose Park.

The mix of music icons and exciting new artists will join the already announced headliners: Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, George Ezra and Biffy Clyro and special guests Fatboy Slim. Other acts include: Lily Allen, Jess Glynne, Madness, Sigrid, Sam Fender, Tom Walker, Richard Ashcroft, Freya Ridings, Anne-Marie, IDLES, Bastille, DMA’s and Jax Jones.

Alt-rock icons, Garbage, have sold over eight million albums, topped the charts and secured a GRAMMY Album of the Year nomination for Version 2.0. Currently working on their as-yet untitled 7th record, the stage is prepped for the band’s triumphant return this summer.

By 2013, Keane had released four fulllength LPs, sold 12 million albums, won two BRIT Awards and an Ivor Novello. Their debut album, Hopes and Fears, entered the list of the 40 best-selling UK albums of all time. Reunited in 2019, they’re gearing up to release new music.

Bursting onto the scene in 1987, Wet Wet Wet have an incredible back catalogue of songs, including three UK Number 1 hits, making them one of the most successful bands in British pop history. Last year, Kevin Simm (2016 winner of The Voice and former member of Liberty X) joined as lead vocalist.

Designed as a rocked-up, light-hearted, satirical ABBA spoof, Björn Again has achieved cult status since its inception 30 years ago and was acknowledged for initiating the ABBA revival, which brought about ABBA Gold, Muriel’s Wedding and MAMMA MIA! Isn’t it incredible there is a major festival on our doorstep, hosting the likes of the iconic Fleetwood Mac, Rolling Stones, Queen, the

Who and the Police? What’s more, isn’t it incredible that young musicians, resident on the Island, can get to play on the same stage?

That is what Wight Noize is all about!

The Wight Noize initiative was conceived

by Platform One College of Music, which has continuously strived to develop opportunities for young bands and artists resident on the Island since 1999. Wight Noize is a mechanism to support all young musicians on the Island and not just students who study at the college. The initiative allows young musicians the opportunity to be involved in a professional music industry showcase and get constructive feedback from industry professionals.

The Wight Noize Music Industry Showcase will take place on Saturday, May 11, at Strings Music Venue. The doors will open to the public at 7.30pm, with an entrance fee of £2.50, payable on the door. The audience will have the opportunity to register who they feel deserves to be showcased as they enter the venue. The winners will have the opportunity to play at the IW Festival!

Young dancers from the Roisin Mullins' Dance Academy recently celebrated the dance school's first year, as they stepped out to perform for St. Patrick's Day at the Quay Arts Theatre. Theatre supporters at the Newport arts centre were treated to a traditional show of Irish dancing, accompanied by live music, played by local Irish musicians. The Brading based academy was established on St. Patrick's Days, lasy year, by former Lord of the Dance star and UK Champion, Roisin Mullins.

Roisin said: "It has been an incredible first year, there is so much enthusiasm for dance here on the Island. We have achieved so much in such a short time and have created a wonderful sense of team spirit among our

dancers. We now have classes runningall week in Brading and Ryde, ranging from babies right up to professional adults. We offer all styles of dance, with Irish Dancing being our speciality.

"Already, our young dancers have been winning National Championships, performing full shows and taking part in community events. I am so proud of them all. We have really enjoyed celebrating St. Patrick's here on the Island with our dancers, and look forward to welcoming more pupils throughout 2019."

The Roisin Mullins Dance Academy can be seen performing at the Quay Arts Theatre, again on Sunday, May 12, at 11.30am.

Educating road users to give horses a wide berth Groups of horses will be setting out onto the UK roads nationwide at 11am, on Sunday, April 14, with pedestrian banner bearers displaying the Please Pass Wide and Slow message. Horse riders and drivers will be supporting this important road safety initiative on the Island, by setting out on their own local awareness rides in Wroxall, Newport, Ryde, Godshill, Freshwater and Porchfield.

Horse riders and drivers are hoping to draw attention to the ever growing need for all motor vehicle drivers to be wellaware of the high number of horses needing to be ridden or driven on what has been described as the rural and twisty Island road network. The rides have been scheduled, nationwide, for a Sunday morning, using classified roads so as not to inconvenience drivers by being out and about at a time that would interfere with rush hours or commercial delivery vehicles or congest single track roads.

Organisers of the Pass Wide and Slow (PWAS) initiative state: “On the Island the vast majority of drivers are

kind, patient and courteous towards equestrian road users and, being highly vulnerable in traffic, we appreciate their thoughtfulness immensely and hope their courtesy is always clearly acknowledged by equestrians.

Unfortunately though, a small minority of drivers can be unnecessarily impatient and reckless in passing horses too fast and too close. This can result in horse and rider injuries and deaths far more easily than those drivers may imagine, so it is those drivers that we hope to reach out to via the awareness rides, if only to make them realise that they also risk their own lives and licences by driving carelessly around horses.”

The organisers of the PWAS initiative continued: “Sadly, the UK bridleway network is very depleted and fragmented and is only connected by vehicular roads, so horse riders are forced to use the roads in order to reach what remains of the bridleway network. Horse riders and drivers have never been recognised or acknowledged as vulnerable road users in any of the off-road cycle and walking initiatives

that are funded by central government, so it is for this reason that some 65 of our Island equestrians have clubbed together to raise the money to pay for PWAS informative banners out of their own pockets, to help drivers to fully understand how to safely pass them and their horses on the road.

“Ultimately, we’d like to commission dozens of PWAS banners to put on permanent display all over the Island, where both residents and visitors can be reminded always to pass horses wide and slow. By extension, we also hope to bring to the foreground of drivers’ minds the consideration that a ridden or driven horse could easily be around the next bend and will be unable, due to a general lack of road verges, to take evasive action to avoid a vehicle that is travelling too fast to be able to stop in time to prevent a collision. Any such collision, even at slow speed, is likely to cause catastrophic injuries to a horse that will result in the horse having to be put to sleep.”

If you’re a driver or rider who has been involved in a road incident on the Island, please call our newsdesk on 01983 214264.

5th April 2019

iwobserver

News

@iwobserver

23

Slimmers raise £24,000 by donating their clothes that are now too large!

Being so confident they’ll never need their larger sizes again, slimmers across the Island have raised approximately £24,000 by donating the clothes they’ve successfully slimmed out of to Cancer Research UK. The Island's Slimming World groups collected 803 bags of clothes, shoes, homeware and accessories, as part of the Big Golden Slimming World Clothes Throw. The bags will be donated to local Cancer Research UK shops as part of the national fundraising campaign.

The Big Golden Slimming World Clothes Throw aims to raise awareness of how keeping a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer. Each of the filled bags is worth around £25 to the charity (£30 with a completed gift aid certificate), and this year’s campaign is aiming to beat the total raised in 2018, an incredible £3million in just two weeks. Since 2012 the partnership has generated more than £12million worth of stock.

Team Developer, Rachel Prewer, who runs Slimming World groups in Ryde, is delighted that members from all over the Island have raised so much money for charity. She said: “I can’t quite believe how many bags we managed to collect. I knew the members across the Island were amazing, but I didn’t expect such an incredible level of effort, wow!

“Seeing members donate their too-big clothes is just the cherry-on-top for me as a consultant.

What I find so special is seeing members transform before my eyes as they lose weight. Many go from shy, apprehensive individuals, who join with their confidence at rock bottom. They don’t believe they

could ever lose the weight they dream of losing.

When I look them in the eye and tell them they absolutely can be the size they want to be, whatever that is, and that I truly believe in them, things start to change.

“At group, members learn to remove feelings of guilt around food, and instead feel empowered by all the free food they can enjoy. Through Food Optimising, they learn to change the way they think about food by making changes to the way they shop, cook and eat, and they lose weight without ever feeling like they have to restrict a thing or go hungry.

“Members also make friends in group, they celebrate success together and they are there for one another through the more challenging times too.

As the weight drops off and the energy levels soar, many of them become more active too. Walking, swimming, playing with the kids, there really is no stopping them! They shed the shackles of their former selves, including the clothes they’ll never fit in again too."

She added: “So many people don’t know how much of a difference losing weight can make to health, including reducing the risk of developing a range of problems, including some types of cancer. Hopefully, this campaign and our efforts for charity will help inspire more people on the island to improve their health and change their lives by losing weight too.

"I’m so proud of our members and their efforts.

They really do put their heart into everything they do. Whether it’s their weight loss, supporting each other each week or raising money for charity, they continually blow me away!”

24

News

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

Take in the stunning sea views and much more on this walk There are so many beautiful places to walk on the Isle of Wight, but there is still something special about one which gives you stunning cliff top views.

So this week, in association with visitisleofwight.com, we bring you a walk you may like to tackle, which combines magnificent views with a stroll through the beautiful seaside town of Ventnor.

The walk begins at Nettlecombe Farm and is between four and six miles, depending on which route you choose, and takes between two and three hours. As already mentioned, the cliff top views on your descent into Ventnor are a sight to behold. Ventnor was one of the most famous Victorian health resorts due to its unique micro-climate with more sunny days and fewer frosts than the rest of the Island allowing many species of subtropical plant to flourish notably at Ventnor Botanic Garden.

Starting at the fishing lakes at Nettlecombe Farm, take the Public Bridleway NT5 Whitwell. Then take the NT12 St Lawrence.

You will cross a main road to continue this path up to the old radio station. Once you reach the top of the cliff, High Hat, and the sea is in front of you, bear left along Paradise Walk as it is known or the V75 Whitwell Road which meets St Lawrence Shute. Cross over and carry on straight, making sure the sea/ coast is on your right. This path takes you all the way in to the start of Ventnor as you see the houses ahead of you. Eventually, you will reach a junction of the main route and you need to follow the main footpath on the right down in to Ventnor itself again keeping the sea on your right. Just follow the path all the way down into the heart of the town.

When you are ready, head back the way you came into Ventnor. Eventually, at the top of the hill past the houses, you can follow the path back in the direction of Whitwell OR, as you leave Ventnor on the cliff path leading back to Whitwell parallel to Whitwell Road, you will reach Ventnor Rugby and Football Club to your right on the other side of the main road. To the right of the club there is The Stenbury Trail Public Bridleway V56 signpost right next to the “Welcome to Ventnor” sign. This leads up onto Stenbury Down. At the top, Ventnor Golf Course is on your right . Pass through a gate to carry on the downs path. On a clear day, if you look right you will see far reaching countryside views all the way to the mainland and the Spinnaker Tower. If you look left, you will see all the way to the sea and the Chalk cliffs of West Wight.

Keep following the path until you reach a larger farm gate on your left, with a sign that has a blue arrow on. This leads down all the way to meet a horizontal path. Turn right here, passing through the first gate.

Then go through the next two gates and bear left taking the path all the way back down towards Nettlecombe Farm. Enjoy the lovely views of the farm as you descend down the pathway. *Remember to register if you plan to Walk the Wight this year to raise funds for Mountbatten. The event takes place on Sunday, May 12, with a variety of walks for all abilities, including of course, the main one between Bembridge and Alum Bay. Register online:

https://www. mountbatten.org.uk/register-to-walk-thewight

Jaz Connell. Picture by Marek Skiba.

Young Platform One stars release singles Royal Victoria Yacht Club awarded Onboard status The Royal Victoria Yacht Club (RVYC) has been awarded OnBoard status by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA).

The Club is already an RYA recognised training centre and is delighted to be further recognised by sailings national governing body.

OnBoard is a successful grass roots programme, which seeks to make sailing and windsurfing easier to access for eight to 18 year

olds. Launched in 2005, the programme has helped introduce nearly 900,000 young people across the country to sailing and windsurfing.

Hannah Cockle, OnBoard Operations Officer, commented: “It’s great to welcome Royal Victoria Yacht Club to the OnBoard programme. Getting out on the water has a huge amount of benefits, no matter what

your age, background or ability. We look forward to working with them and the local community to get as many people as possible enjoying our great sport.”

Further information on cadet sailing and RVYC activities may be found by contacting the club on 882325 or visiting their website: rvyc.org.uk.

To Advertise call 01983 214264

Platform One star Jasmin Connell launched her single, Footsteps, with a concert at Strings music bar in Newport. The IW Observer went along to watch her performance, and speak with two other stars from Platform One who are also releasing singles today: Emily Wild and Summer King.

Jasmin (Jaz) Connell, 20, has been strongly influenced by country music and Americana.

This interest has even taken her to Nashville, Tennessee. She says that her favourite musicians include Kacey Musgraves, Ruston Kelly and the Cramps.

Jaz says of her single, Footsteps: “It’s about making your own path and doing your own thing. What I believe in. I’m super-excited about the release of the single. I perform songs to get them heard. I love playing to an audience. I love telling people my story.”

She added: “Platform One has helped me with confidence and motivation. I can’t thank them enough.”

Emily Wild goes under the stage name, Emellia. She said: “As I was growing up, I was surrounded by music. My Dad repeatedly listened to Elvis Presley, my auntie and Nanna were singers, and my cousin worked in a studio, so from an early age it was all introduced to me. When I first learnt to play piano aged 12, I would start putting words to chords and, before I knew it, I was writing songs. Some songs were super-ridiculous because of how young I was! But it all motivated me and I grew with my music."

About her soon-to-be-released single, she said: “Authority is about a person that is in

love with somebody, but that person doesn’t feel the same way and is unsure. I wanted my first single to be relatable because not everybody finds it easy to let go and it’s easy to say you’re over somebody when you’re not. I thought love and heartbreak would be the best way to connect with my audience, using synthetic, electronic sounds.”

Emellia added: “I have always been inspired

by Whitney Houston, Tina Turner and Aretha Franklin growing up, and more recently Dua Lipa, Anne-Marie and Beyonce also inspire me. All of these artists have such powerful, distinctive voices in song with powerful lyrics and huge choruses. Naturally, it became my goal to have a similar vibe to my music.”

Emellia says Platform One has given her the confidence to do this, something she has always wanted to do. It has given her the boost and the motivation.

Summer King, 20, goes under the stage name of Roni. She started singing lessons at the age of six, encouraged by her Dad’s interest in music. Roni plays electro-pop, and claims Arianne Grande and Charlotte Black as influences. Her musical influences are the piano and the guitar, but says that her voice is the most important aspect of her repertoire.

Roni says that her single, Mutual, is about falling out of love and then falling in love all over again.

She added: "Platform One has really motivated me to embark on a career in music.

They are amazing. You get so much contact, time and help.”

5th April 2019

iwobserver

Services

@iwobserver

Wight Home Care buys St Vincent’s St Vincent’s, a well-established care home situated in Ryde, has been sold to Wight Home Care, described as 'an experienced operator'.

Registered for 25 residents, St Vincent’s is a care home for exmilitary servicemen, women and widows, and provides 25 single, en suite bedrooms over three floors.

The property sits in a large plot, with an orchard to the rear and plenty of parking to the front and side.

The care home has been successfully operated by SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, with a full time manager looking after the day to day care of the service users and a complement of dedicated staff. The decision to sell the care home was made by the charity in

order to concentrate on other key areas of support.

Peter Sandiford, Director of Client Services for SSAFA, said: “After making a strategic decision to move away from the care home sector, we wanted to make sure that St Vincent’s was sold as a trading care home, so that our residents and staff would have continuity of where they lived and worked. It was important for SSAFA to find the right person to take over the business and, with Diane Radcliffe, we feel that she will continue the caring and supportive ethos that SSAFA offers.”

The new owner of St Vincent’s, Diane Radcliffe, is experienced in the sector as the owner of Wight Home Care, the largest private provider of home care on the Isle of

Wight. She said: “We are delighted to have purchased this well known and performing care home from SSAFA. The care home offers us a good opportunity to build on its already good name, and we look forward to getting to know our residents, their families and new colleagues. It is important to me that St Vincent’s remains a home for SSAFA members. My father was a Lancaster Bomber pilot, and all of his brothers were in the forces, as was my husband’s father. We also have a nephew who is serving in the Armed Forces. We look forward to looking after veterans, their families and other elderly people from the area.”

Charles Phillips, Director at Christie & Co’s Winchester office, handled the sale and

SERVICES

said: “Following a confidential marketing campaign, St Vincent’s obtained a number of offers from local potential purchasers and we are pleased to have concluded the sale with Diane.

“The home is a natural progression for her other business, Wight Home

25

Care Ltd, and we are sure both businesses will go from strength to strength. It has been a pleasure acting for SSAFA in the sale of the care home and making sure that the process was handled smoothly and correctly for the residents and staff.”

To advertise here call 01983 214261

Do you have a news story to tell?

Call us on 01983 214264

Locktight Flooring

IW Services

Specialising in luxury vinyl tiles, safety flooring, wet rooms.

Home James!

1 - 8 Seats Restaurants & Clubs Nights out with friends Cruise Line & Airport transfers

locktightflooring.co.uk

01983 822410 07773 429787

Call 01983 30 30 44

CHEAP SKIPS

ALL SIZES AVAILABLE

822634 Any time

DAVID’S TAXI SERVICE

Call us on: 07969 436870

Puzzles Puzzles

www.iwobserver.co.uk

Wordsearch Sponsored by Angela Holidays.

Tel: 02380 404536. www.angelaholidays. co.uk

Find the following Angela Holidays associated words horizontally, vertically, backwards and forwards BRITAIN COACH CRUISE DAYTRIP EUROPE EXCITEMENT GETAWAY

HOLIDAY HOTEL LUGGAGE RELAX SOUTHAMPTON SUITCASE TRAVEL

How to play

Sudoku

5th April 2019

Crossword

26 26

Place a digit from 1-9 in each empty cell so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the digits from 1-9 only once.

Across

Down

1. Apparel (5)

1. Jordan’s end (4,3)

4. Viscera (5)

2. Peer (5)

7. Capital of Azerbaijan (4)

3. Astronaut (8)

8. Engrossed (8)

4. Expel (4)

9. Church songbook (7)

5. Motley assortment (7)

10. Hidden store (5)

6. Bloodsucking worm (5)

12. Fine cigar (6)

11. Horticulturalist (8)

14. Windcheater (6)

13. Praise vociferously (7)

16. Shrink (5)

15. Pear-shaped fruit (7)

18. Version (7)

17. Scrub (5)

21. Clubman (8)

19. Cornered (5)

22. Hairy man of Genesis (4)

20. 2.2 pounds approximately (4)

23. Ardent male lover (5) 24. Cowboy display (5)

For the answers to the crossword, see page 2.

Spot the differences

Sponsored by Angela Holidays.

Tel: 02380 404536. www.angelaholidays.co.uk

Can you find all eight differences between the two pictures of Valkenburg, Holland below?

5th April 2019

iwobserver

Sport

@iwobserver

Sport Observer

27

Chris Stay showcases talent in trials championship win

By Peter White

Fixtures and match officials for the forthcoming week (Kick-off 6pm unless stated) Monday Harwoods Renault Isle of Wight League Division One Whitecroft & Barton Sports v East Cowes Sports - Arron Tree Tuesday Harwoods Renault Isle of Wight League Division Two Niton Community v Oakfield - Ben Orton Yarmouth & Calbourne v Ryde Saints - Chris Cass Wednesday Harwoods Renault Isle of Wight Combination League Division One Brading Town v Oakfield - Matt Sainsbury Thursday The IWCP Challenge Cup Final Cowes Sports Reserves v Whitecroft & Barton Sports, at Newport FC, St Georges Park (ko 7.30pm) Referee: Abu Gates: Assistant Referees: Ian Smith and Andy Jones Fourth Official: Steve Raybould

Latest Results from Newport Golf Club Nine-hole Stableford: 1, Adam Ridett (17) 24pts; 2, Steve Johnson (10) 19.

Thursday Stableford:1, John Godwin (8) 35pts; 2, Terry Hopkins (10) 33; 3, Rex Ringer (11) 33.

Newport Vase Greensomes Medal: 1, Simon Jupe andSteve Gilbert (17) 62.8; 2, Tim Exell and Theo Mitchell (27) 64; 3, Steve Johnson and Mike Greenwood (10) 65.

Sunday Stableford: 1, Keith Gamble (21) 35pts; 2, Mark King (9) 33; 3, Yolande Farrer (6) 32

April 6 fixtures Local fixtures for the week ahead Tuesday, April 2 Harwoods Dacia Isle of Wight Senior Gold Cup, quarter-final Cowes Sports v Pan Sports (7.0pm) Referee: Tom Berry, Assistant Referees: Ali Taylor & Ben Orton Wednesday, April 3 Harwoods Renault Isle of Wight Combination League Division Two Carisbrooke United v Newchurch (6pm) Saturday April 6 (Kick-off at 2.30pm unless shown) The Isle of Wight Memorial Cup Third Round Sponsored by Andy Butler Sports Ground Specialist Whitecroft & Barton Sports v Shanklin The Isle of Wight Memorial Cup Quarter-Finals Binstead & COB v Ventnor (1.30pm) Brading Town v Pan Sports Ryde Saints v East Cowes Sports Harwoods Renault Isle of Wight League Division Two Adgestone v Niton Community Carisbrooke United v Bembridge East Cowes Vics ‘A’ v Oakfield Combination One Binstead & COB v Shanklin (4pm) Northwood St Johns v Whitecroft & Barton Sports Oakfield v West Wight Ryde Saints v Brading Town Ventnor v East Cowes Sports Combination Two League Cup Group B Yarmouth & Calbourne v AFC Wootton

Island rider, Chris Stay, proved yet again that he is one of the most talented riders to ever come from the Island, when he won the first round of the British trials championships at Hookwood near Guildford.

The British championships appear to be more popular than ever, with a starting entry of over 60 of the country’s best riders, all supported by a large crowd of spectators and followers, including a large contingent from the Island, to support Chris. At the end of the day, it was Chris who stood on the top step of the podium, but it was so close, as he only just beat last year’s winner Ben Morphet by a single mark after completing the tough three-lap, 12-section course.

After lap one, Chris was in third place, just one mark behind the leaders, but then he produced the best lap

of the day, losing just two marks to draw level with Morphet. The final lap was all about who could hold their nerve, and while Chris played safe and took four steady points, Morphet just pushed too hard on the extremely tough section five, and while going for a clean ride, he just held on too long and ended up crashing out for five penalty points.

So all Chris had to do was hold his nerve through the last four sections of the course, and his first ever adult British Championship win was in the bag. This he achieved, and as he exited the final section of the day, it was a truly wonderful and emotional moment for him and all his supporters, who knew they had witnessed a truly great moment in the history of Island motorcycle trials.

IW end home campaign in style with crushing victory Isle of Wight 80 points Southampton 0 A perfect way to wrap up the last home league game of the season saw the Island run in 12 unanswered tries, with nine different scorers, writes Dave Metcalfe.

The homecrowd was entertained straight from the start as the ball was turned over from the kick off for Luke Chandler to score. Strong defence then kept Southampton at bay before defence was turned into attack, and in to the hands of Angus Brown to score.

Lewis Murray added the first of his 10 conversions.

The Island played the style of rugby that had been promised for a lot of the season, with ball carried up, quickly recycled and moved wide with pace and power. Next to cross was wing forward James Webster.

Then, an Andrew Brown carry and drive saw him score on the half hour, to register the side's bonus point. There was still time for Tom Marriott to take the score to 33 – 0 at half time.

IW then brought on their bench, and with Alex

Augustus and Murray puling the strings, the home side continued to dominate, despite a yellow card for Chandler. Driving a five-metre scrum allowed Luke Blackman to score. A break out by Webster led to Angus Brown's second, while Connor Grant’s run was flipped inside for Chandler's second. A further break from Grant was then recycled three times and moved wide for Andy Rann to stroll over.

The domination continued as a lineout was driven over

by Andy Brown. Grant was then rewarded with a try of his own, while the game was completed as Murray converted his own try.

This all round performance takes the Island side towards the close season with confidence for next year, having rebuilt their side over the course of the season. They round off the league campaign at Andover tomorrow (Sat).

28

Sport

Faultless ride gives Rory perfect score

www.iwobserver.co.uk

5th April 2019

Don and Jim win a five-set epic match All teams have now started their Island Table Tennis Premier League 2019 campaign, and in the match of the season so far, Don Hobbs and Jim Hall of Follically Challenged saw off Anna Joyce and Temeesha Hobbs of The Ballcrushers in an epic 3-2 victory. Don was again a class act winning two tough matches in straight sets. After losing in five nailbiting sets to Temeesha, Jim won a crucial match in four against Anna. The Ballcrushers then took the doubles in five incredibly close sets.

Ryde Realists’ Lee Orton and Tim Giles got their first win of the season winning 3-2 against Spinalot’s Alex Rorke and Rob Smith, with Alex’s brace not enough to take the match against a resolute Lee and Tim.

The Untouchaballs followed their opening week victory with another ‘harder than it looked’ 5-0 win against The Lefthookers. Danny Burns dropped sets to both Simon Proffitt and Para Champion Tom Johnson before emerging victorious, whilst Hugh Idle showed real quality in winning both his matches in straight sets.

The Untouchaballs head the league with 10 points, with Follically Challenged second on seven points.

Keith Trigg, Managing Director of Premier League sponsors Trigg & Co was present at Smallbrook to watch a full programme of Premier League matches.

He was very impressed by the professionalism of the players and the whole set-up of the league.

Pictures courtesy of Viki Taylor.

The Isle of Wight Motorcycle Club held the fifth round of the Trials Championship at Apse Down, Calbourne. The course was set by Steve Chase, Phil Chase, Ben Brodie and Paul West, with eight superb sections, and something to suit all styles of riding. Rory Stephens displayed some perfection, winning the Intermediate class without losing a single mark, Very close behind him was Mark Coombes, who briefly lost his concentration on section seven, and missed a flag to incur a maximum five point penalty - which relegated him into the second spot. Tom Richards had to battle hard to take the third place, four ahead of Ben Brodie in fourth with Shaun Harris in fifth. James Stay was all alone in the Experts and just needed to finish to take another 10 Championship points and although he found section eight somewhat troublesome, he did exactly that.

Simon Newnham took the spoils in

the Over 50 (B) class with an impressive performance completing the four laps with a loss of just nine. Malcolm Hawkins finished in second on 41, losing over half these on sections three and eight.

Meanwhile, over in the Clubman class Scott Milton returned to winning ways with a comprehensive cushion of 19 marks from Colin Brodie. Phil Chase despite a determined effort was nine more adrift in third.

In the Novice’s it was Steve Chase that took an impressive win, his second consecutive top spot, cleaning all but section three where he lost eight.

Things were much closer for the minor placings. Joe Taylor just managed to stay ahead of Paul West in third. Nick Symes recorded another predictable win in the Twin Shocks, adding to his season's tally. It was great to see Stewart Freeman back on the ‘C’ route and considering his lack of ‘bike fitness’

posted an impressive total for a fine second place. Geoff Taylor was the only Sportsman rider, choosing to take on the ‘C’ route on an unfamiliar two stroke machine.

Five Youth riders were in action, headed by Alfie Haydon in the Youth Inters. Alfie did a brilliant job, finishing with only 19. Dan Locke managed to hold off a determined challenge to take the win from fellow Youth Novice rider Josh Morris, just six marks separating the pair.

Of the two Youth Beginner riders, Alfie Gaskin and Bertie Grieve, Alfie notched up his second consecutive win.

Bertie, in his first ever trial, did a great job to earn his seven Championship marks.

The popular Wight Two Day Trial is on April 27 and 28, with 125 confirmed entries. The closing date is April 19, with not many places left.

Alex Rorke and Rib Smith in action

Wight Wolves show great improvement Following the success of the Isle of Wight RFC’s girls’ team hosting the league tournament at their home ground, the Wight Wolves travelled to Fareham for their latest fixture. There were eight teams and seven matches in total, with a long afternoon of touch rugby, and great effort put in by all.

The girls won their first three matches, lost three and ended with a draw, to finish fifth overall. With commendations from other team coaches on how far the Wolves have come as a team in a month it will be great to see how they do in Gosport on April 28.

Latest results from Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club Ladies Bowmaker: 1, Ruth Graves, Lynn Aylott and Anna Garriock 88; 2, Joanne Wright, Catherine Bachelor and Shona Farnes 77.

Open Stableford, Division 1: 1, Neil Hallett 40 points; 2, David Oldham 39; 3, Ashley Lawrence 34. Division 2: 1, Steve Lucy 36; 2, Anthony Bird 34.

Purple Heather Cup: 1, Kevin Stevenson 39; 2, Steve Compton 38; 3, Keith Taylor 38, 4, Steve Lucy 38; 5, Lawrence Tolfrey 37; 6, Neil Hallett 37

5th April 2019

iwobserver

@iwobserver

Sport

Spider Ride opens the summer series Around 20 horses and riders took part in the Isle of Wight Riding Club’s Spider Ride to Brighstone. The riders made their way from all parts of the Island to the destination in Chilton Lane. It was the first of six such events being organised by the IW Riding Club this summer.

Photos Keith Pollard

Anyone who attends at least five out of the six rides will receive a special series rosette, with the rosettes being sponsored by Mark Holmes, of the Chequers Inn, Rookley.

The next Spider Ride in the series will be taking place on Saturday, June 1, with Roud as the destination.

29

30

Sport

www.iwobserver.co.uk

McKie double as Yachtsmen edge ever closer to safety Hamble Club 1 Cowes Sports 2 Cowes Sports took another huge step towards Wessex League, Premier Division safety, with playermanager John McKie paying tribute afterwards to the commitment and attitude of his players.

Although it was McKie’s two goals that ensured three more points for the Yachtsmen, he admitted the hard work of his team mates was a massive factor in the recent resurgence.

McKie said: “I don’t want to tempt fate, but there is so much confidence in the team, I really cannot see us not surviving now. When you are the manager you tend to get that vibe, and we went into this one with such confidence, the feeling was fantastic. There is a great mentality running through the whole team.

“Although I’m manager, I am still a player, so it was nice to do my bit. But it is the work the other players are doing around me that allows me to get the goals.

Connor Furmidge is a prime example. He has had real bad knee problems, and needs surgery, so he has only been able to do small amounts.

“But the type of player he is allows others to have

freedom, because he is naturally talented in his movement off the ball, and that it gives us the space to do what we need to do. He is just one of many who have made a massive contribution in making it happen.”

The Yachtsmen controlled the opening half, and Jez Conway went close, but they had to wait until just before the interval before McKie put them in front. The goal settled any nerves, and the Island side continued to dominate, with McKie striking again after 70 minutes.

Nathan Lynch netted a consolation for Hamble.

Cowes are now six points clear of second-frombottom Bemerton Heath Harlequins, and although they have an inferior goal difference, one more win could see them over the safety line.

They take on AFC Portchester at Westwood Park tomorrow (Sat), looking to make it three wins in a row, with McKie adding: “Our recent home form has been very good, and we shall be going for the win that we hope will be good enough to keep us in the division.”

Hurricanes warm up for big play-off clash Sandown & Shanklin RFC hosted their own intersquad match in place of their scheduled league fixture against Alresford RFC. The Hurricanes were set to welcome Alresford to the Fairway for their final league fixture at home and their penultimate league fixture.

Alresford, struggling with injuries couldn't field a team to come to the island, and with that came the walkover for the Hurricanes.

This sealed second spot for Sandown & Shanklin, and in turn confirmed their spot in the London South West 3 Play-Off fixture against Weybridge Vandals of Surrey 1.

The Play-off will be held on Saturday, April 13, at the Fairway and hope everyone

will give them support in their bid to secure promotion back to London South West 3.

Meanwhile with the lack of a competitive fixture for two weeks on the bounce, and the Hurricanes 2nd XV also not having a game, there were enough available players to field two teams, with the Blues beating the Maroons by 39 points to 21.

The Hurricanes now turn their attention to the final league fixture of the season for the 1st XV, when they make the trip over the Solent to Portsmouth RFC 2nd XV. The Sandown & Shanklin RFC 2nd XV are on the road as well, and travel to Tottonians RFC to play their Vets. Both are played tomorrow (Sat) before the ‘big one’ on April 13.

Not much goes right as Newport slip to defeat Ringwood Town 3 Newport 2 Yachtsmen player-manager John McKie

Newclose gearing up for busy season of cricket The Island cricket season is underway and at Newclose County Cricket Ground plans are progressing well for the Hampshire v Nottinghamshire 1st XI County Championship four-day match which starts on Monday, May 20.

Before that, Hampshire visit the Island on Monday, April 29, for a 50Over ECB Second XI Trophy match against Middlesex. The following day the two teams start a three-day Second XI County Championship match which may feature some ‘red ball’ first team bowlers who would otherwise be without a game. Hampshire will be captained by Brad Taylor the former England Under 19s captain who was one of the Hampshire First XI squad which got to Lord’s for the final of the 50-Over Royal London Trophy last season, where they took the trophy by beating Kent.

After an illustrious playing career as a batsman and captain, Jimmy Adams is now the Hampshire Second XI coach.

His last two visits to Newclose featured a century in a T20 match against the Unicorns last season, then in December he returned to Newclose where he presented the Bob Henly Trophy to the

5th April 2019

Newclose Young Bowler of the Year, Dan Cox. The Hampshire Cricket development programme is creating the cricketers of the future through age group squads and the Hampshire Academy. These player pathways are the key to a strong Hampshire team in the future and are being managed and led by Charlie Freeston from the Isle of Wight. He grew up in Niton and played cricket initially for Shanklin and more recently for Ventnor in the Premier League top division. His role as Hampshire’s Head of Player Development will bring him to Newclose for the five Hampshire Academy Premier League fixtures being played at Newclose this season.

In the week commencing April 29, Charlie will join Jimmy Adams in a coaching capacity for the four days of Jimmy Adams presenting the Bob Henly Hampshire 2nd XI versus Middlesex Trophy to the Newclose Young Bowler of 2nd XI. The public will be able to watch the Year, Dan Cox. free of charge each day and enjoy the this or any match details can be obtained facilities of the Newclose pavilion. For by contacting Newclose Trustee Hugh £25 per head the Newclose Marquee Griffiths on 07768 552682 or by email at will be offering a hospitality package griffithshugh@sky.com for the 50-over match, which includes breakfast and lunch. Enquiries about

HAMPSHIRE v NOTTINGHAMSHIRE at Newclose - 20th – 23rd May Hospitality package £60 inc. breakfast bap, lunch, afternoon tea and ½ bottle of wine

Contact : info@newclose-cricket.co.uk 01983 824570

It was one of those days to forget for Newport as not much went their way at Ringwood. A ‘goal’ that looked perfectly legal was ruled out for offside in the first few minutes, and that seemed to set the tone for the remainder of the game.

Their chances of taking the lead were squandered when Connor Kelly missed a penalty, then they rattled the woodwork, before Ringwood scored twice in quick succession on the counter-attack.

But going in at the break, Newport manager Andy Sampson still felt his side had a chance of pulling it off, and it certainly looked to be going that way when Jordan Browne and Jared Cousins found the net to put the Island outfit back on terms.

Sampson said: “As soon as we had levelled, I just felt it was a case of us scoring again, but in virtually the last minute they broke away again to score the winner.

It might have been one of those days, but the trouble is we have been having too many of them.

“Ringwood worked hard, and they are not a great side but they still beat us. We are not consistent enough, but at the same time a lot depends on which of my players are available, and sometimes we are missing that bit of experience and know-how, that could keep them out, and see games through.

“It’s disappointing, but I can’t fault the way we attacked, apart from the fact we might have scored a few more goals. But it was a game we should have won.”

Newport visit Downton tomorrow (Sat), and their match at home to Alton, postponed earlier in the season when the opposition could not raise a team, will now be played at St Georges Park, on Easter Monday (ko 3pm), which is two days after the Wessex League season officially ends.

Latest results from Osborne Golf Club Stableford; Division 1: 1, Andy Taylor 39pts; 2, Leigh Pragnell 38; 3, Mark West 36. Division 2: 1, Kevin West 35; 2, Nick Hunter 35(ocb); 3, Adrian Newbold 34. Division 3: 1, John Moyneux 42; 2, Jeremy Page 35; 3, Paul Cates 34.

Saturday Stableford: Division 1: 1, Martin Edmonds 40; 2, Jim McCormack 38; 3 Leigh Pragnell 36. Division 2: 1, Richard Couse 42; 2, Nick Hunter 38; 3, Nigel Bowden 37. Division 3: 1, Sean Thrippleton 42; 2, Paul Cates 39; 3, Deryck Jones 39.

Sunday Stableford: All Men; 1, Leigh Pragnell 38; 2, Sid Owen 38(ocb); 3, Matthew Purser 37.

5th April 2019

iwobserver

Sport

@iwobserver

Brading edge closer to top after victory over Shanklin

Brading edge closer to top after victory over Shanklin Brading Town kept alive their slim hopes of lifting the IW Harwoods Renault, Division One title with a smart 4-2 victory over Shanklin.

Brading came from behind to take full points, and moved above Shanklin in the table into second spot. Although they are now only four points adrift of Whitecroft sand Barton Sports, who were in Hampshire Intermediate Cup action, the leaders still have two games in hand, and remain red hot favourites to take the title.

Brading were stunned when Shanklin took the lead in the opening minute.

But as they began to take command, Jake Keetch levelled and then Dan Vale edged them in front. Before half time Aaron Burford increased the lead.

Shanklin pressed hard in the second period, and pulled one back, as well as hitting a post. But Brading made the game safe when Dillon Gough scored their fourth. Shanklin’s goals came

from Josh Craig and Ian Seabrook, and they are now in third spot, on the same number of points as Brading, but have played two games more.

Northwood St Johns, in fourth place, shared six goals with Ventnor, while Pan Sports just got the better of Sandown, recording a 3-2 success, despite goals for Sandown from Ben Field and Ollie Parkinson.

In Division Two, Niton Community were 2-0 home winners over AFC Wootton, while in Combination One. Shanklin Reserves shared eight goals and the points at home to Brading Reserves, with Haydon Little, Olly Fleming, Liam Gearing and Jake Clark on target for the homeside.

W&B Sports Reserves proved too strong for Northwood St Johns Reserves running out 6-1 winners thanks to goals from Danny Cantelo (3), Kieran Lewis (2) and Damien Cassford.

West Wight were also convincing

winners in Combination One, scoring a 5-1 home success over E.C.S. Reserves.

In Combination Two, Seaview Reserves edged out Carisbrooke United Reserves 2-1, and Niton Community Reserves accounted for Yarmouth and Calbourne Reserves 8-3.

So Bembridge are a massive 15 points ahead of Ryde Saints at the top of Division Two, with AFC Wootton, Carisbrooke and Newchurch all bunched up behind, with only a point separating them.

W&B Reserves and E.C.S. Reserves are neck and neck at the top of Combination One, although W&B have a better goal difference, and a game in hand.

Seaview Reserves are Combination Two leaders, five points ahead of Carisbrooke United Reserves with Bembridge Reserves and Niton Community Reserves tucked in just behind.

SailGP will go through paces at Cowes Week New global sports series, SailGP, will be at the first weekend of Lendy Cowes Week this year. As an Official Feature Event of Lendy Cowes Week, Cowes SailGP will bring an added level of excitement to the event with supercharged wing-sailed catamarans close-quarter racing at speeds of up to 50 knots, just off Egypt Point.

The Sail GP series is made up of five international events. Cowes will be the penultimate one before the grand finale in Marseille where the six rival nations’ teams will be battling it out

to win the US $1million prize.

SailGP racing will take place after Lendy Cowes Week races, between 3pm and 4.30pm so there will be plenty of time get in position to watch the action unfold after the regatta races finish.

Kate Johnson, Commercial & Marketing Director of CWL commented: “We are really excited to be featuring Sail GP. We anticipate this event will bring even more crowds to Cowes and the Isle of Wight to watch the thrilling racing and soak up all the shoreside atmosphere that Cowes Week has to offer.”

31

Vics show spirit to take another point East Cowes Vics 2 Petersfield Town 2 Vics produced a positive response for manager Vic Brougham, following their midweek IW Gold Cup exit, but it could so easily have been all three points, instead of just one.

Brougham said: “The most important thing was that we didn’t get beaten, and after losing to Newport in the cup, the lads showed a bit of character which was what I was looking for. It was just frustrating that we conceded another goal late in the game, when I thought we could hold on for the win.

“But if we can finish the campaign in the top half of the Wessex League, Division One, then I will look on it as being a good season for us. I would certainly have settled for this at the start of the season. We have had our setbacks, but the players are competing well, and they are learning all the time.”

Following the draw with Petersfield, Vics moved onto 44 points for the season, and are tucked safely just above mid-table, along with several other teams still pushing for a top six finish.

Vics found themselves a goal down in the opening

Vics Manager, Steve Brougham five minutes, but hit back to equalise before the break through Elias Ahmed. The Island side stepped up the tempo in the second period, and went ahead when Brandon Hayward headed home. That looked to be enough to secure full points, before Petersfield grabbed a late leveller.

Vics visit Andover Town tomorrow (Sat), a team sitting next to bottom in the table. Brougham said: “Although they are near the bottom, when we played them at home, they were very attack-minded, and played quite well. So it will be another tough game, but we are now just trying to get as many points as we can to end the season on a high.”

W&B flying Island flag in Hants Cup Whitecroft & Barton Sports, runaway leaders of the Harwoods Renault IW League, Division One, are carrying the Island flag on the mainland, having reached the semi-finals of the Hampshire Intermediate Cup. W&B are away to Infinity FC tomorrow ( Sat), for a place in the final of the competition.

Infinity are based in Knowle Village, and play in the Hampshire Premier League, Senior Division.

The Island side reached the last four with a superb 4-3

quarter-final victory over Bournemouth Manor.

They looked to be on their way out when they trailed Bournemouth 3-1, before staging a great comeback, with Darren Whillier hitting the late winner. Other W&B scorers were Freddy Knowles, Matt Evans, and Alex Wright.

Because of W&B’s semifinal clash, their The Isle of Wight Memorial Cup third round tie against Shanklin, scheduled for tomorrow, has been postponed.

Ventnor edged out in last home game Ventnor 1st XV 19 points Romsey 1st XV 27 The last home game of the season for Ventnor proved to be one of the most entertaining. Romsey took the first points of the game, but Ventnor quickly took the lead with a try from Andrew Gough which he converted himself.

Romsey took the option to kick a penalty to make the score 7-8, but Ventnor keep upping the tempo and Ed Blake managed to bundle over the line to put them ahead. After that, Romsey took their chance and scored under the posts to make the

half time score 12-15 in their favour.

Romsey were the first to score a try in the second half, but that was quickly cancelled out when captain Jake Babington scored in the corner. With that gap back to three points with five minutes to go, Romsey’s counter attack proved to be the final blow and their fourth try sealed the game.

Ventnor’s final game of the season is this weekend away to league champions Alton, with Ventnor keen to cause an upset.

Sport

32

Sport

Observer

www.iwobserver.co.uk

This weeks highlights...

Football

Equestrian

Brading edge closer to top

Spider Ride opens Summer season

31

By Peter White

22nd March 2019

29

Newport v Hythe & Dibden match report Newport IW 0–2 Hythe and Dibden In Wessex League One, Newport lose to 3rd placed Hythe and Dibden , a side featuring former Norwegian international and Saints player, 47-year-old Jo Tessem, in their starting line-up.

In a good, evenly-matched, open contest, Port began brightly against their highflying opponents, with Jordan Browne shooting powerfully past the post in the second minute of the game. In the tenth minute, Hythe’s Sam Woodward shot across the face of the goal.

In the 21st minute, Connor Kelly shot across the Hythe goal from a well-placed position. Then, in the 29th minute, Jacob Reynolds was forced to head the ball off the line for Port. In the 32nd minute, Joe Craig had a shot fisted over the bar by Hythe man-mountain keeper, Elms Grant. However, it was Hythe who were to reach half-time with a 0–1 advantage, when Wayne O’Dell headed in a corner.

The away side began

to show their class and experience after the break, having the lion's share of the chances. In the 58th minute, Joe McCormack was forced to parry the ball for a corner. Port attempted to hit back, with Joe Craig shooting just over the crossbar in the 66th minute.

However, Hythe made the game safe for themselves in the 75th minute, when the unpronounceable Ngwa scored from close-range after a defensive mix-up in the Port penalty area. The score could have been worse for the home side, after Sam Woodward broke through for Hythe in the 78th minute, but could not control the ball well enough to score.

After the game, Port manager, Andy Sampson, declared himself pleased that his side had competed against highly-placed opponents, but thought that the greater experience of the Hythe and Dibden side was the deciding factor in the game.

Sarah wins award The sports achievement awards - personality of the year 2018 - took place on Thursday 4th April at Medina Theatre in Newport and local trainer and event rider, Sarah Holmes won the Isle of Wight ladies senior category.

Sarah is an event rider based on the Isle of Wight, competing at BE 90 to now 5* level. In 2015, she was part of the silver medal winning 3* (formerly 2*) European GB Team!

Sarah said “It was a very nice evening and It was lovely to be nominated and receive an award. It was an amazing achievement and I would like to congratulate all the others who also won awards.

Rivals come together for temporary groundshare East Cowes Vics have agreed to share their ground with local rivals Newport FC for the 2019/20 season. Newport will move in to the Vics’ Beatrice Avenue ground at Whippingham, until their proposed purpose-built stadium is constructed at The Racecourse on the outskirts of Newport.

Work on the new sports facility, which will include a clubhouse, grandstand and state-of the-art floodlighting, can begin if plans for a retail park at Newport FC’s current St George’s Park ground are approved. This development, if approved, will fund the new stadium, and it is hoped construction of this new

facility can begin in the autumn.

Newport FC spokesman, Peter Westhorpe, said: “We are all very excited about moving into the new Racecourse stadium but clearly this cannot be in time for the 2019/20 season. This ground share provides us with the certainty we need to prepare for the next league campaign. We would like to thank East Cowes Vics for their support and we are looking forward to sharing their famous old ground next season.

“We are closely matched this season and I am sure this temporary arrangement will provide an extra

competitive incentive next year.”

Gary Todd, spokesman for East Cowes Vics, said: “We may be rivals on the pitch but we hope that through us agreeing to share our facilities, a bond will be formed between the two clubs over the 2019/20 season, which hopefully will last for many seasons to come.

Both clubs are currently well-placed on 44 points in Sydenhams Wessex Football League Division One. The arrangement has been submitted to the Wessex League for their approval.

Seconds ease to easy victory Latest results from Ventnor 2nd XV 47 points Romsey 2nd XV 10 Ventnor 2nd XV played out a ‘champagne rugby’ game against Romsey 2nd XV. The two sides entertained the crowds in a spectacle filled with the spirit of the game.

Ventnor’s try scorers included

new player Alexandru Enache, as well as more established players in Warren Riches, Alex Morton, Gareth Gough, Mark Tucker, Ian Lane and Gavin Davis getting on the score sheet. Cory Turner stepped up to play scrum half in what he promises is one of his final games for Ventnor before he joins the army.

Westridge Golf Club Stableford, Division !: 1, Glen Winnard 39 points; 2, Geoff Budd 38; 3, Joel Tarry 38. Division 2: 1, Penny Maclean 44; 2, Frank Brazier 43;. 3, Derek Allen 43.

Captain’s Drive-In and nine-hole Stableford: 1,Phil Brennan 22 points; 2,Margaret Abbott 21; 3, Luke Paxton 19.