Isle of Wight Observer: Issue 003

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24th August 2018 - Issue 3

Isle of Wight

THE ISLAND’S ONLY LOCALLY OWNED NEWSPAPER

Floating Bridge noise complaints

Page 3

FREE

‘I could have a broken pelvis’ says rider

Page 4

Jumping for joy!

Over a quarter of Ryde School pupils achieved an average score equivalent to 10 A grades or better, including Henry Giles (L), and Wyman Lee (R) (pictured). Continued on pg 2

16 page pullout on Island events inside

Mayor in skatepark scandal The Sandown Community Partnership secretary has resigned after denying tax payer’s money was used to fund an “unusable” project.

The partnership’s now exsecretary and Sandown Town Council (STC) Mayor Jacquie Mereweather has also admitted to not declaring financial interests in her role as mayor.

Concerns were raised over the waste of tax payer’s money by Sandown Community Partnership (SCP) who purchased and installed a new junior skate park to their own specifications - it will now be removed due to “manufacturing issues”.

Mayor Mereweather has admitted she did not declare an allowance paid to her by the partnership during her role as councillor and Mayor.

She wrote in her resignation letter to the partnership on Wednesday (August 22), that she has been put in “a very precarious position” as mayor.

Therefore, she has decided to resign as secretary to “protect my

By Joe Burn integrity”, and the town council’s.

She said she was “not prepared to take responsibility for any mistakes” made in the commissioning of the junior skatepark.

The mayor suggested that partnership chairman Cllr Gary Young and Cllr Ronnie Teasdale “stepped up to take some of the flack” as she “had no input into dealings with The Forge”, who manufactured the junior skate park.

Cllr Teasdale is minuted as taking responsibility for the design of the skatepark and liaising with The Forge.

“There comes a time when the nastiness has to stop and I can’t take any more,” finished exsecretary Mereweather.

Minutes from an SCP meeting seen by IW Observer say tax payer’s money was used to pay for the junior skate park.

Continued on page 7

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Call us now on 216111 or email: newsdesk@ iwobserver.co.uk Address: Suite 6, 17 St Thomas House, St Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL.

Tel: 01983 216111 Email: newsdesk@ iwobserver.co.uk Sales: sales@iwobserver. co.uk Web: www.iwobserver.co.uk Facebook: @iwobserver Twitter: @iwobserver Youtube: Isle of Wight Observer Publisher: Isle of Wight Observer Ltd News Editor: J Burn Online Editor: S Clarke Sport & Features: P White Sales: N Labelle Gardening: M Noyce Production: C Clarke Photography: J Sheath

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Lake hunt over IW students are Police have explained their heavy presence in the Lake area over the past month.

The news comes as two women and one man were arrested in Linden Road, Newport on Wednesday (August 22).

The two women were arrested on suspicion of possessing Class C drugs with intent to supply.

Islanders may have noticed a heightened police presence on specific occasions over the last month in Lake, including officers on foot and the National Police Air Service helicopter overhead.

A Hampshire Constabulary

spokesman said: “This activity formed part of enquiries into a number of reported offences on the Isle of Wight.

“On Wednesday (August 22) officers made an arrest in Linden Road, Newport, as part of this investigation, and have subsequently charged a man.

“Ben Entwhistle, 30, of Westlake Avenue, Lake, has been charged with a number of offences including criminal damage, dangerous driving, and failing to stop for police.

“He has been remanded in custody to appear at Newport Magistrates’ Court (August 24).”

Car wash closes A car wash business has packed up its buckets and sponges and left their trading location.

Somerton Hand Car Wash and Valeting Service, who traded on the Northwood Honda site on Newport Road, Cowes, has removed their equipment and taken away all signage following the end of their lease.

Rumours circulated on social media on Wednesday (August 22), suggesting the landowners wanted the property back, or that it may have been connected to the Home office raids and arrests in March this year and January 2017.

By Sandy Clarke

A spokesman for Northwood Honda told the IW Observer that the land was always theirs and they had plans to expand their own business once the current car wash lease had expired.

The land will now be used by the original owners to expand on their range of vehicles they offer and to make more parking available for their customers.

It’s not known if the car wash will now move to another location.

jumping for joy Provisional figures reported by schools indicate GCSE students on the Isle of Wight have attained higher grades than in previous years, says Isle of Wight Council.

Schools have provided their provisional results to the council with the majority reporting improvements overall.

This year GCSE content has been made more challenging, following the introduction of a new one to nine rating system by the government. The new system – used in English and Maths last year - has been extended to a further 20 subjects.

More students have attained a grade 5 or above in English and Maths compared to last year.

Any students who wish to

discuss their options after receiving their GCSE results can seek information and advice from the council’s Island Futures service.

IW Observer spoke to Ryde School students and staff who have plenty to celebrate with 17% of the new exams being awarded the very top grade of 9.

Over a quarter of all results at the school being either A* (equivalent to 9/8) – the best figures ever for the very top grade. Over half of the English Language results and 47% of the Maths results were at Grade 7 or above. Also, 88% of grades were at the new pass rate of 9 to 4.

Well done to all students on the Island for their respective results.

Clean air controversy Southampton City Council’s (SCC) plan to introduce a Clean Air Zone (CAZ) could have serious economic implications for the Island.

Concerns were raised on August 16 at an IW County Hall meeting about the CAZ plans.

From the meeting, it seems that the ferry operators and the Port Authority in Southampton are deeply concerned about the economic impact of the current proposals and are making representations.

Although the government has asked that local authorities act swiftly to bring in CAZs, they have given a 2025 deadline. At the moment, SCC are proposing to bring in controls by 2021.

Many freight companies and coach companies believe that this is too short a timescale to allow them to plan to replace

any non compliant vehicles.

If SCC do not extend the timetable for compliance then there are severe concerns that the Island’s economy will suffer not least in the tourist area where non compliant coaches may simply decide to go elsewhere.

The scale of fines for non compliance is severe and amounts to a charge of £100 per day for non compliant vehicles such as buses, coaches and HGVs but even taxis and private hire cars who do not meet Euro 4 and euro 6 (diesel) levels will be fined 12.5p per day.

A consultation exercise which finishes on September 13 does not currently encompass the Isle of Wight.

None of these charges and proposals are yet fixed.

Cabinet member for transport and infrastructure,

Councillor Ian Ward said: “The Southampton CAZ has the potential to raise costs and thus prices for goods and services on the Island. Myself and members of the business community were briefed by Southampton Council project managers last week and it was of concern what the implications could be. The IW Council officers are preparing a comprehensive brief which will guide how we address this issue.

“I know that our MP Bob Seely is already examining the issue and investigating its implications and possible concessions for Island bound traffic.

“This is a major issue for the Island but the IW Council and our MP will do their best to minimise the impact.”

Family forced to flee Floatie noise CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

Residents who live close to the Floating Bridge slipways claim the bridge’s noises could be “damaging tourism” and have even forced one family to flee their home.

Noel Turner-Brooks has lived in Seymour Court, East Cowes for seven years, he has seen and heard both Floating Bridge 5 & 6 in service at the rear of his property.

The 49-year-old described the latest model as a “nightmare” and compared the sounds it makes to London’s tube trains.

The recruitment professional is one of two permanent residents to live in the nine white cottages on Castle Street next to the bridge’s loading ramp - the rest are holiday lets. A factor he says, could be causing the Island’s tourism industry serious damage.

“The council don’t realise,” said Mr Turner-Brooks. “These people are on holiday for a week - and they’re not coming back.

They’ve said that.

“We’ve had this bloody barge revving black smoke up outside our properties, with people sitting out on the balconies enjoying a £500 holiday week.

It’s not funny and it doesn’t look good. Especially on Cowes Week. I think it’s damaging tourism here.”

Jeremy Pocock, lives on the other side of the Medina to Mr Turner-Brooks, also very close to a slipway in Medina Road.

By Joe Burn

The 51-year-old said he’s had to move his young family to the mainland temporarily as they cannot sleep due to the Floating Bridge noise.

The software developer says he has escalated the problem to the Environment Health Department.

According to Mr Pocock, the department have told him they would put a stop to the service if it was run by a private company due to the noise levels - but are powerless to stop the council.

Mr Pocock said: “The reality is we’ve owned the property for 16 years and it was never like this before. But the much bigger story is that the Environmental Health Department is unable to do its job. It should really be an independent body that can have authority over the council as much as it does over private individuals and businesses.

“They are not doing anything about it and are denying us the opportunity to get some kind of dialogue going even though we have had the environmental health officer out.”

On Monday (August 20), Isle of Wight Council (IWC) were asked about the noise the bridge makes after it was caught on video and sent to IW Observer.

IWC apologised, they said the noise was a “current” issue caused by a temporary

Noel Turner-Brooks

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NEWS IN

BRIEF Tackling the rise of hare coursing Farmers and landowners are bracing themselves for an early seasonal rise in hare coursing, with the CLA urging the police to make tackling it a top priority.

Hare coursing is a rural crime where dogs are used to chase, catch and kill hares, with gambling on the outcome common practice.

The CLA is now urging the police to do everything possible to stop the sinister tactics, threats and intimidation used by hare coursers and arrest those caught in the act.

CLA South East represents thousands of landowners, farmers & rural businesses in Kent, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and the Isle of Wight.

Bembridge arrest A 16-year-old has been arrested following reports of an assault in Bembridge. solution to increase the chain clearance. IWC said it would be rectified when Wight Shipyard “addressed this issue at the earliest opportunity”.

“I know the council have said it’s only just been making the noise, but they must be joking,” said Mr Turner-Brooks. “Since they’ve had Floating Bridge 6 it has been a nightmare.”

Mr Turner-Brooks explained he used to hear the previous model’s chains clunking along occasionally, “but it was very

rare - and it was fine”.

“Since the new bridge, the noise has been really terrible, it reminds of me when I wait for a tube train up in London,” said Mr Turner-Brooks.

“Personally, I think it has been quite embarrassing. Some of the comments we hear from the kitchen window are amazing.”

Mr Turner-Brooks says the problem has been going on for so long he has even invited cabinet member for transport Councillor Ian Ward to come to his house

and listen to the noise firsthand.

But he’s had no reply.

“I think they just need to tow the thing away and go and bloody sink it,” Mr TurnerBrooks continued. “Wait until they want their votes, I think a lot of Cowes and East Cowes residents won’t vote for them.

And they need to also drag the people that were in power beforehand and line them up.

They think they’ve all escaped.”

IWC have been contacted for comment.

A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We were called at 5.34am Wednesday morning (August 22) to reports of an assault on Heathfield Road, Bembridge.

“A 16-year-old boy from Bembridge has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm and is currently in police custody.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting 44180317731.

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NEWS IN

BRIEF Murdered mother A mother who has lived on the Island was strangled to death during “rough sex”, the BBC reports.

She was strangled by a man she met five hours earlier who scattered pornography by her body, a jury heard.

Richard Bailey denies murder, claiming Charlotte Teeling died accidently during “rough sex” after asking to be choked at his Birmingham flat.

But prosecutor Jonas Hankin QC said her injuries suggested he intended “at least to cause really serious harm”.

33-year-old Miss Teeling had lived on the Isle of Wight and also at a woman’s refuge in Worcester. She took a taxi with Bailey to his flat at supported accommodation in Cooksey Lane, Kingstanding.

New president for Lions Club Ryde Lions Club welcomed in their new President at Yelfs Hotel, Ryde.

Outgoing President, Marsha Couture, passed over the chain of office to Pauline McCreanor, who in her keynote speech, emphasised that Lions are the largest service organisation in the world, and that to be able to continue helping the local community, the club needs new members.

For more information on becoming a Lion, call 0845 8335789.

‘I could have a broken pelvis’ A horse rider believes she had a lucky escape after her horse slipped on a resurfaced road.

Jodie Long’s horse Harry slipped at the Three Cocked Hat junction with Coleman’s Lane on July 23.

The 19-year-old care-worker says she “could have a broken pelvis” and is “really lucky” to have walked away from the incident with only cuts to her elbow.

Miss Long says Harry has road nails in his shoes to assist hacking over the Island’s roads.

She met with Island Roads safety officers on Monday (August 20) at the site of the incident to discuss the issue.

Speaking before the meeting Miss Long explained the fall from Harry, who is fully shod, has never fallen before and has road nails in his shoes.

She said: “He put his right back leg down, and it just shot straight back behind him. He did his natural leg movement and couldn’t get grip.

“I thought he was going to come backwards and land completely on top of me but he dumped me on the right, and changed his balance to the left, his body was then up against the hedge and covering me up to my pelvis.”

Harry has been left stiff after the fall, with a bad back and an ankle rotation that would suggest ligament damage explained Miss Long.

“My other horse Max is a lot heavier,” continued Miss Long.

“If I had been on him he would have crushed me.

“I could have a broken pelvis with how my horse came down so I’m really lucky to have walked away how I did - I’m convinced if it had been my other horse I would have a broken pelvis.

“Bless him though, he waited for me to get up and tried to roll

off me.

“Ideally, you’d want Island Roads to change the surface.”

After the meeting Miss Long said she met with two men from Island Roads, Stephen Ashman, service director and an Island Roads road safety engineer.

Both gentleman were sympathetic towards the problem of horses slipping on the road and understood the severity of injury to both horse, rider and potentially other road users.

“On the site that I had my fall on they are going to conduct a skid resistance test to see if it is within UK standards,” said Miss Long. “However, this test has no relevance to horses, as tyres are rubber and shoes are metal.”

The men then explained any relevant test would need to come from the Department for Transport.

“I did ask who would be liable if on that day my horse had fell and killed me. The response was that nobody would be liable as the roads meet all UK standards,” said Miss Long.

An Island Roads spokesman said: “We were sorry to hear about Jodie Long’s recent experience and, as part of our wish to better understand these incidents and accommodate the access needs of the equine community, we were happy to meet with Jodie to discuss the circumstances around her fall.

We would like to thank her for her time and her informed and valued contribution.

“We will undertake checks on the skid resistance at this location but recognise national specifications for highway materials and their testing does not include parameters dealing specifically with the slip resistance of metal shod horses.

It is important to stress that all

resurfacing materials we use meet all UK safety and quality standards.

“We will continue to work with the Isle of Wight Council in investigating other ways to improve access for the equine community.”

Director of safety for the British Horse Society, Alan Hiscox said: “Riders should be

aware at all times on how the surface they are riding on affects the horses grip. The British Horse Society is however, very concerned that horse riders on the Isle of Wight are continuing to experience challenges with the road surface in certain areas on the Island.

“I wish the horse and rider a speedy recovery from their fall.

Riders should be aware at all times how the surface they are riding on affects the horse’s grip.

The British Horse Society’s Horse Accidents website horseaccidents.org.uk enables riders to report safety incidents they have experienced, including slippery road surfaces, in order for us to gather statistics.”

Liftshare BRIEF could cut traffic

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NEWS IN

IW Festival celebrates fifty

These days, there may be more music festivals in a British summer than you can shake a stick at, but the very first one took place in the summer of ‘68, and you could only get there by boat.

Tributes paid to ‘unique’ Jacqueline A pedestrian involved in a collision in Wootton, on the Isle of Wight, earlier this month has died. Jacqueline Valvona, 90, of Homebray House, Wootton, died at Southampton General Hospital on the afternoon of August 20.

She had been involved in a collision with a BMW car on Kite Hill, shortly before 4.30pm on August 2.

Her family have paid tribute to her on Tuesday (August 21).

They said: “Jacqueline

was a much loved mother, grandmother and friend to many.“Those who knew her will remember her as a vivacious, charismatic, generous and fiercely independent person.

“Born very premature in Paris 1928 and not expected to survive, she reached 90 years, 65 of which were on the Island.

“She was unique.

“We would like to thank all the emergency services for their professional and sympathetic support and especially to the

staff at Southampton General Hospital who were wonderful with both mum and us.”

The driver of the BMW X3, a 75-year-old man, was uninjured.

Investigations into the exact circumstances of the collision are ongoing and officers would like to speak to anyone who witnessed what happened.

Anyone with information is asked to contact us on 101, quoting 44180292735, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A new car-sharing service has launched on the Island to help workers save on money, emissions and combat congestion.

Liftshare aims to encourage community lift sharing among employees working for Island businesses - no matter what their size.

The scheme is part of the Workplace Engagement Programme (WEP), and has been launched by the Isle of Wight Council (IWC) and run

by Newport based sustainability consultant, Kayleigh Richter.

Miss Richter explained the initiative, she said: “I have been hired by Systra, who were hired by the IWC to deliver these initiatives.

“As part of the WEP, we currently promote Liftshare to businesses, big and small, to encourage community lift sharing.

“This is so that employees and employers can save money, reduce their carbon footprint, and help reduce congestion on Island roads.”

Miss Richter’s company, KR Sustainability, liaises with businesses on behalf of the council to work out a travel plan for their employees based on answers to a survey.

“We then promote Liftshare, and various other options

available to encourage sustainable travel.” added Miss Richter.

Liftshare can be used now.

For WEP discounts, workplaces must be eligible. This means that they have to complete the survey - then they can access discounts.

The benefits to businesses using Liftshare could include lower carbon emissions, financial savings and improved staff wellbeing.

Dez White, an owner of Amar Taxis said: “If it works then it’s all well and good. The less congestion in Newport the better. If it’s within the workplace it should better the environment. [In terms of] security, just make sure you know who you’re picking up and you’re not picking up strangers, but yeah hopefully let’s see what happens with it.”

Roger Coombs, owner of Newport based taxi service Alpha said: “If it’s what it says it is then I don’t think it will cause us any problems.”

Liftshare is funded by the Department for Transport’s sustainable transport access fund that IWC had to bid for and were one of 22 councils to win.

You can find out more here: www.iowtravelnetwork.info/ and www.krsustainability.co.uk or Twitter on @KRSustainable or @iwtravelnetwork.

The original Isle of Wight festival was organised by brothers Ray, Ronnie and Bill Foulk as a fundraiser to build Islanders their first public swimming pool. It’s claimed some 600,000 fans attended the 1970 event, but its popularity was also its downfall. It was banned until 2002, when rock promoter John Giddings stepped in.

The Isle of Wight Festival at 50 will air on BBC One, Friday (August 24), 7.308pm, with viewing on iPlayer afterwards.

Arrest made in East Cowes A man from East Cowes has been arrested following an assault.

A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said: “On the evening of Tuesday (August 21), officers were called to reports of a domestic incident at an address on Orchard Road, East Cowes.

“A 44-year-old man from East Cowes has been arrested on suspicion of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and is currently in police custody.”

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting 44180317451

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‘Eric the Hat’ era over CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

NEWS IN

BRIEF National Travel Awards shortlists Hovertravel Hovertravel has been announced as one of ten finalists in the Travel Trade Gazette’s LGBT awards.

This year’s most LGBTfriendly travel company category is hotly contested with global brands such as Celebrity Cruises and All Nippon Airways competing alongside Manchester Airport and the Thomas Cook Group.

Hovertravel fully supported Isle of Wight Pride’s bid to host UK Pride 2018.

Hovertravel also represented Isle of Wight Pride in the London Pride Parade.

A local celebrity and council employee has been told he can’t wear his trademark hat anymore.

Social media has been alight with rumours that Floating Bridge employee ‘Eric the Hat’ is no longer allowed to wear his famous cowboy hat.

Eric has been digitally represented on the Floaty Finder website designed by Wighthat and Orange Peel Creative that helps track the bridge and tell customers if it’s in service.

Even in digital form, Eric is pictured wearing his brown leather hat - but he shall no longer be seen in it while working the bridge.

IW Observer can confirm that Isle of Wight Council (IWC) has told Eric he must “adhere to the prescribed uniform”, like

By Joe Burn

every other member of staff and remove his usual brown leather headgear.

Ellie Bright, 30, from Cowes said: “I think it’s ridiculous they have banned his hat to promote a more professional image when his hat is as iconic as the bridge itself - and more reliable!”

Eric was spotted wearing a baseball cap on Tuesday (August 21) while working on the bridge.

The council explained that Floating Bridge employees do have the option to wear a branded cap and that it could be the case that Eric is just waiting for a new one.

IWC would not confirm or deny when asked if Eric is allowed to wear his own baseball cap.

Loretta Lale, Head of Commercial at Hovertravel said: “We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this award and delighted to be recognised for our efforts to support the LGBT community.”

Fire in drier at Shanklin pub A fire engine from Shanklin was called to the Fisherman’s Cottage pub in the Esplanade at 10.18am.

The fire was out by the time the crew arrived, so they carried the smoking drier outside.

They used a fan to remove the smoke from the building.

No one was hurt but the pub closed for the day on Tuesday (August 21).

Eric without his famous hat

Sandown skatepark BRIEF scandal resignation CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

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NEWS IN

Harp making course extended

Harp on Wight have confirmed that the deadline to apply to make a make a 23 string lap harp has been extended indefinitely.

The six day course runs from October 25 to 30 and is held in the beautiful serene setting of Quarr Abbey.

Continued from front page The minutes show a £1250 grant from STC was paid into the partnership’s games account, “but not transferred to the main account, as it is to be used for the junior skatepark”.

Mayor Mereweather denies this is true and says cash from car boot sales and concerts were used to pay for the failed project.

IW Observer asked the mayor if the tax payer money was used for the junior skate park and therefore wasted on the unusable project.

She said: “Although the town council grant was mistakenly paid into this account by the previous town clerk, none of this was used for the junior skate park as there was enough funding from car boot sales, concerts and other fund raising activities held previously.”

IW Observer asked the council’s town clerk and mayor where the £1,250 STC grant has gone and what it is intended for now. They have not responded to this question.

Sandown Community Partnership Terms of Reference documents from May, show that Mayor Mereweather was paid a yearly allowance for “routine administration” by the partnership as its secretary.

Further investigation has shown an amount of £1,500 a year was set aside for administration in the partnership’s 2017 budget.

This allowance is not listed on

For the third consecutive year the course is being led by Breton harpmaker Sylvestre Chabrin. A first class instrument is produced at the end of the course.

For further information ring 01983 730930 or apply at www.harponwight.co.uk.

Vectis Radio shortlisted for award Local community radio station Vectis Radio has been shortlisted in the annual national Community Radio Awards.

The Newport based station, has made the shortlist, which was whittled down from more than 360 entries to 77 stations from every corner of the UK.

Cllr Mereweather the Mayor’s register of interests for Sandown Town Council.

Failing to register or disclose a disclosable pecuniary interest (DPI), can result in a fine of £5,000 and disqualification for five years from local council and from other local authorities.

Mayor Mereweather said: “Although I am secretary to the partnership I have not received any payment for 2017.

“The routine administration fee given to them by the town council included payment to our insurance company, hire of rooms, licences, printing costs, etc. Not specifically to the secretary.

“I admit an error in not including membership of the partnership in my register of interests, this shall be rectified.”

Sandown North representative

Cllr Debbie Andre said: “The resignation of the secretary of the Sandown Community Partnership, Jacquie Mereweather, and recent revelations about how it operates, calls the value of the partnership into question.

“It is maybe time for residents and representatives of local businesses to instead form a publicly accountable group,

which could take over from the partnership, to raise and source funds for Sandown - including a “state of the art” facility for our younger children where the junior skate park would have been.”

Sandown Town Council and the partnership have been contacted for comment.

The station has picked up nominations in the Community Development Project of the Year category for their 4Ps Project which helps young people build confidence and communications skills using radio as a form of therapy.

The awards will be given out at a ceremony in Sheffield this September.

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Holmesy!

THE DAVID HOLMES COLUMN

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Lifeboat open day The Freshwater Independent Lifeboat will be holding its last open day of the season on Sunday (August 26th) at the boathouse in the Bay. It provides visitors with the opportunity to look around the boats, chat to the crew and enjoy homemade cakes while listening to the live music and playing

games. Children can hunt for specially painted stones on the beach and promenade and maybe win a small prize.

It has been a busy week for the Freshwater crew with a double launch in the dark to attend a stricken yacht with engine failure that was drifting onto rocks.

The D class inshore boat took a

passenger with seasickness off the yacht to safety ashore and the large offshore boat, Spirit of West Wight 3, was launched in the pitch black to tow the vessel to safety. A tow was set up and the 34ft vessel taken safely to Yarmouth.

Where does the time go?

I need to apologise to you.

Frankly my last two columns in The Observer were rubbish! Well if not actual rubbish, they were definitely below par, and frankly that’s unforgivable when you’ve been given such a good platform to express yourself.

You may well ask why they were unsatisfactory. To put it simply, the problem was lack of time because to write four or five hundred words every week is not as easy as it seems.

To do it properly takes an eternity. First you bash out your rough idea, just to get your thoughts off your chest and on screen, a stream of consciousness, that’s the straightforward bit, but then you need to polish what always quickly seems to have deteriorated into a pretty dismal effort, and my punctuation leaves a lot to be desired too.

I really wish it were better but it isn’t, but how many readers actually notice? I read very quickly myself, so the thrust of what is written is mostly what I’m taking in; I’m not a punctuation pedant. I did read that book, Eats, shoots and leaves, but I couldn’t really make

head nor tail of it, I think it was about a Panda, but all I know for sure is that they eat bamboo shoots and have great difficulty procreating. Quite what that has to do with rogue apostrophes I don’t know. (Ed, please check, should that be apostrophe’s?)

[Ed: No David.]

So many of us lead busy lives these days, we hardly do anything properly - because time is always in short supply. In the past fortnight, I’ve been busy organising The Garlic Festival, that’s on top of my normal day job, this and my voluntary jobs.

Throw in a couple of radio shows, visiting family members, all of whom demand I give generously of my time, and it’s a wonder I have time for sleep or Facebook, and I haven’t been on Twitter for weeks.

I don’t organise the garlic show single-handedly of course, other people help, friends and

family muck-in during the last few weeks, but I’m dealing with almost every issue that needs resolving, because they all refer up! I’m the boss, and most evenings and weekends are spent dealing with marquees, traders, entertainers, toilets, generators, passes, bins and bands, many of whom are coming to the Island and need a ferry booking – which they then demand changes, almost before we’ve logged-off the ferry account.

We’re not quite at the “only blue M & M’s in the dressing room” level, but even The Wurzels have some very specific requirements, to include a lot of corned beef sandwiches, John Smith’s beer, various ciders and of course, tea making facilities.

If you’ve ever organised any sort of do, you’ll know what I mean. There’s never enough time and you always end up feeling you could have made a much better job of it – if only you could do it all again and had more time. So, please accept my apologies for the column and any shortcomings in my life generally. I will try and spend more time crafting my column next week, but if you know anyone that wants to get something off their chest as my deputy, email IW Observer and offer to stand in for me, but only if you have an abundance of spare time.

Jumble in aid of Ryde Inshore Rescue Ryde Inshore Rescue will be holding a boat related jumble sale to raise funds. Anything and everything boat related will be on sale at the free event.

Sellers are invited to pitch up for just £5.

The event is on Sunday (August 26) from 10am to 2pm at their headquarters in Appley Lane, near the seafront in Ryde.

A spokesman for Ryde Inshore Rescue said: “Come down to

support your local Independent Lifeboat! It’s free entry to browse, £5 per pitch for sellers. We have new and used boat equipment and general chandlery for sale, come down and grab a bargain.

“Both lifeboats will be on display, our shop will be open for teas, coffees, ice creams, snacks and more with lots of nearby parking.”

For more info email: chairman @rydeinshorerescue.com.

New RNLI Visitor Centre now open The RNLI’s Inshore Lifeboat Centre Visitor/Heritage Centre at their site in East Cowes is already proving a popular attraction.

The new room was created within the RNLI’s working offices’ reception area, and is the start point of site tours, now carried out by local volunteers. The tours are pre booked for 10.30am Tuesdays and Thursdays every week. The Visitor Centre was created to enable members of the public to have a focal point for their visits.

The Centre’s reception contains the storyboard history of the RNLI’s Inshore Lifeboat Centre, a cut down D class lifeboat for photo opportunities, a copy of the Queen Victoria Royal Charter, some RNLI/ Island heritage photographs, and some RNLI safety messages, on the walls, and on interactive blocks. There is also a small shop for RNLI products.

Glyn Ellis MBE, Operations Manager for the RNLI Inshore Lifeboat Centre, said: “During the tour visitors see the way the Inshore lifeboats, mainly the Atlantic 85 and the D class, are constructed, maintained and designed.”

The centre was officially opened earlier this month by HRH Princess Royal and her husband Sir Tim. Walking with a tour guide through

the workshops, tours take about between an hour and 90 minutes. Tours are free of charge, but there is a donation box for voluntary donations to

the RNLI charity.

To book a tour call (01983) 292521.

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Picture by George Weech

Fundraising fun run returns Mountbatten’s popular fundraising Osborne Run, launched for the first time last year, is set to return to the beautiful estate of Osborne on Sunday, September 9th.

The inaugural Osborne Run, held thanks to the support and generosity of English Heritage, was a sell out with 600 runners taking part on a sweltering

June day and raising over £20,000 to support Islanders and their families. Organisers at Mountbatten are hoping to avoid the extreme temperatures of last year’s event by setting the September date.

Participants can choose from a three or five-kilometre fun run that starts and finishes in front of the home so loved by Queen

Victoria and Prince Albert. The non-competitive fun run is open to all ages and abilities, and will take in areas of the grounds including the beach, Swiss Cottage and parts of the estate that are off the beaten track.

The cost of entry includes a running vest, fundraising pack and all finishers will receive a special Osborne Run medal.

Places are limited so anyone interested in registering for the fun run is encouraged to sign up via our website www. mountbatten.org.uk or by calling the Fundraising Team on (01983) 217300. Online registration closes on Tuesday (August 28th).

Jax Jones, Major Events Fundraiser, said: “We are so

grateful to English Heritage for allowing us to once more use the stunning Osborne estate in support of our cause.

“The support for last year’s event was fantastic so we hope people will make it another sell out success and raise even more money this year to support Islanders and their families who are facing death, dying and

bereavement.”

Nigel Hartley, Chief Executive, said: “Osborne Run has quickly become an important fundraiser for Mountbatten. We hope as many people as possible will take part again this year, and encourage others to join them.

Circus double act Another generation of the Island’s favourite travelling circus family has been born here.

Jay Miller’s Circus performers Charlotte and Florian Carabin have welcomed a little boy into the world at St Mary’s Hospital.

Oscar Carabin 3.6 kg, son of Florian and Charlotte who is the daughter of Jon and Liz Miller was born at 6.30am on Thursday (August 23).

Mrs Carabin is Jay Miller’s daughter, he said: “He’s fit and healthy and the mother is doing well, we’re shattered but very happy.”

Oscar is the second to be born in a week at Jay Miller’s Circus after they congratulated performers; Miss Zsofia and Clown Peppi on Friday (August 17).

The performing pair welcomed their baby girl, Hanna Izabella into the world on the Island at 6.36pm.

Burlesqueathon to raise money CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

By Sofia Tindall

The Isle of Wight may be better known for cliffs and beaches than corsets and bustiers; but a burlesque movement is inspiring women of all ages across the Island to get on board with the alternative fitness trend.

Island-based Sarah Spillane (who goes by the moniker Mimi Vin Rouge) started running Burlesque Chair Dance ™ classes after moving to the Island a year ago, as a way of meeting friends.

Sarah said: “It can be intimidating when you move somewhere new. I think if I didn’t have the classes, I would be struggling to make new friends - but we’re like a big family now.”

Since starting her classes, which run hour-long sessions three days a week however, Sarah has seen a phenomenal response: with attendees ranging from sixteen to seventy-one.

“At first the ladies were very shy and apprehensive – everyone thinks it’s about stripping and nipple tassels but that couldn’t be further from the truth,” laughed Sarah, emphasizing that newcomers shouldn’t be intimidated.

“We wear t-shirts and vest tops and leggings, over the course of the classes our dancers have come out of their shells and absolutely blossomed. Their confidence has come on leaps and bounds, and seeing that has been amazing. It’s for all abilities, shapes and sizes.”

Inspired by the success of the classes, the group are now hosting the Island’s first-ever ‘Burlesqueathon’ which will be held at Gurnard Pines on the September 2.

The event will see around 30 women (a mix of newcomers as well as seasoned burlesque-class enthusiasts) join Sarah and a second instructor for six one-

hour sessions, and all proceeds will be split evenly between the Daisy Chains, an Isle of Wight Charity, and the Hope 4 Mae campaign.

“My goal is to get lots of ladies involved, I’m very ambitious,” added Sarah, “the dress code will be T-shirts and leggings or Superhero costumes. Hopefully we’ll raise as much as possible, we want to make it an annual event.”

The group have already dedicated their efforts to fundraising for charity, hosting a ball in April for Parkinson’s UK, and have a future fundraising open-stage night planned for November.

Burlesque Chair Dance ™ classes run on the Island on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7.15pm and 7pm at Camphill social club in

Newport, and on Friday at 7.30pm in Ryde. Further information is available at www. burlesquechairdance.co.uk Anyone wishing to sponsor the Burlesqueathon or sign up to join in (ladies-only event) can contact Sarah on 07815 427199 or send a message to the group on the facebook page: www. facebook.com/BurlesqueChair DanceIsleofWight/

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Market returns to the Quay Quality Island food, handmade crafts and street entertainment will be on offer at Newport’s weekly Market on the Quay which gets under way on Friday, (August 31).

The perfect place to enjoy some tasty cooked food and watch the world go by, the market, supported by the IW Council, will run every Friday until the end of September.

Organisers have also announced the weekly event will help raise funds for Wessex

Cancer Trust’s £100,000 Building for the Future appeal to create a new cancer support centre in the town.

The Isle of Wight Council’s Assistant Director of Regeneration, Reneira O’Donnell, said: “We are delighted the market will be operational once again.

“The council has worked hard to improve the infrastructure necessary and find the right provider to brighten our lunchtimes.”

St Helens 57 homes plan 12

Plans for new homes have been submitted to Isle of Wight Council (IWC).

If granted permission, the 57 homes will be built on the Guildford Park Camp site in St Helens.

The development will consist of 16 two bedroom houses, eight three bedroom houses, and 13 four bedroom houses.

There will also be 20 “social” units consisting of six houses and 14 flats.

A total of 118 parking spaces would be provided for residents and visitors, as well as 20 for the community to use.

Comments submitted to the council currently include worries about straining local health services and one person is concerned that social housing could “bring down the social standing of the village”.

Newport based company Phil Salmon Planning Ltd is the developer who has submitted the plans.

He said: “The case for the

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proposals is set out in all of the documents submitted.

The current scheme has been reduced in scale following our initial public exhibition in St Helens in the spring. The proposals nevertheless serve to provide much needed housing.”

St Helens Parish Council will hold an extraordinary public meeting to discuss the plans from 7pm on Wednesday (August 29) in the sports pavilion. Island Roads will hold an informal briefing at the meeting.

Residents can view the plans and make comments up until September 7. You can make comments online at www.iow.gov.uk/planning/ PlanAppComment3.aspx?appId =34663.

To comment on this application in writing, please write to Seaclose Offices, Fairlee Road, Newport, Isle of Wight. PO30 2QS, quoting the full Planning Application No:TCP/01875/T, P/00670/18

Ferry petition against ‘excessive’ fares A petition has been started to lobby the government to regulate ferry crossing prices.

The petition specifically mentions the Isle of Wight and claims Islanders are charged “excessive amounts” for leaving the Island.

At the time of writing the petition had over 1300 signatures. It was started by Sarah Frances Johnstone and runs until February 20, 2019.

The petition is titled: “Empower the UK Government or Parliament to regulate ferry prices.”

The petition text claims: “With current ferry prices being unregulated, companies are permitted to charge whatever they wish for crossings.

UK residents living in such places as the Isle of Wight are charged excessive amounts for commuting or travel to see family and friends. Likewise for tourists going the other way.

Overall the inflated ferry prices are hurting the economy of islands around the UK.” At 10,000 signatures, the government will respond to this petition.

At 100,000 signatures, this petition will be considered for debate in Parliament.

Wightlink have been contacted for comment.

Red Funnel have been contacted for comment.

You can sign the petition here: https://petition.parliament.uk/ petitions/227134

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Keep students safe from meningitis Council car sale Parents of children off to university this autumn are being urged to help keep them safe from deadly meningitis.

Meningitis Now, a leading UK meningitis charity is calling on mums and dads to ensure that their children have been vaccinated against Men ACWY and that they also know the signs and symptoms of the disease and what to do if they suspect it.

As thousands of students receive their A-level results and prepare for their journeys into higher education, the charity has today launched its campaign targeting parents with meningitis information and

calling on them to “do one last thing for your children before they go off to university – help keep them meningitis safe”.

The charity is telling them to pack a Meningitis Now signs and symptoms card, fridge magnet or year planner in their child’s bag to raise vital awareness and to keep an eye on their friends – they could save their lives.

University freshers can be more vulnerable because of cramped living conditions. In many cases, young people come together from all over the world to live in one place and can be exposed to bacteria and viruses their bodies have not met before. This is why so many new

students get “freshers’ flu”.

Every university in the UK could experience one case of meningitis among its students within the first term.

First year students up to the age of 25 can obtain a free vaccination for Men ACWY from their GP, although many will already have received this whilst at school.

The early signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicemia can be similar to ‘flu, tummy bug or a hangover and include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, stomach cramps and fever with cold hands and feet. More specific signs and symptoms include

fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and a rash which doesn’t fade under pressure.

Later in the autumn Meningitis Now’s awareness campaign will also target universities and new students directly.

Meningitis Now offers a free information pack for parents and students, including leaflets, signs and symptoms cards, fridge magnets and year planners – all of which contain lifesaving information. These are available free of charge from www.meningitisnow.org/unis

The council is inviting tender offers for its redundant vehicles.

All vehicles are sold as seen with no tax or insurance, and any council graphics will be removed before the completion of sale.

The council can make no guarantee about their condition or the accuracy of their odometer readings and it is not bound to accept any tender.

The vehicles can be viewed at the Sandown Civic Centre staff car park, at the rear of the building at The Broadway, Sandown.

Further details and tender forms can be obtained by emailing the Fleet Management Team at fleet@iow.gov.uk Tenders must be returned to Fleet Management, Isle of Wight Council, County Hall, Newport, PO30 1UD in an envelope marked ‘Tenders for Redundant Vehicles’, no later than 5pm on 31 August.

An invoice will be raised to the successful bidder(s) and no vehicle or equipment can be removed until cleared funds are received.

Go big on friendship with IW Oddfellows If you’re on the lookout for a new social group, then Isle of Wight Oddfellows are the people to be with this September, as they come together to celebrate a very busy Great Big Friendship Month.

On Thursday (September 6), the local friendship society is putting on an Open Day and Historical Display with an invitation for all to come along to find out more about its links to the Island’s social history and how the group contributes to helping the community today. Free to attend, including refreshments, it is being held at Unity Hall, St Thomas Square, Newport between 10am - 3pm.

From coffee mornings and cards sessions to lunch clubs, outings and guest talks, the Oddfellows’ Isle of Wight Branch holds regular events and activities in the area. To find out more and to receive their latest events diary, contact Maretta Heap on 01983 523115 or email maretta.Heap@o ddfellows. co.uk. Future events are also listed online at www.oddfellows. co.uk/events.

As part of the Great Big Friendship Month, the Oddfellows is running a free prize draw to win a one-night hotel break for two plus £200 spending money. Visit www. friendshipmonth.com to enter.

For the record

In edition two of the IW Observer on August 17, we ran a story on page three with the headline “Seely supports sale”.

This was completely false and the opposite of what the story was about.

MP Bob Seely had written to a Bembridge constituent to express his support for local democracy, regarding the Left to right: Erica and Reverend Jonathon Hall with Bishop Christopher

New Reverend welcomed 200 gathered to welcome new Reverend in Sandown.

Saturday (August 18) saw around two hundred people gathered at St John’s Church in Sandown.

This gathering was to celebrate the Licensing of Revd Jonathan Hall as Priest in Charge of St John’s, Sandown and St Blasius, Shanklin by the Bishop of Portsmouth. This completes a

newly formed team of Clergy in Sandown Bay. The service was a joyous mixture of formal procedure and lively singing.

Revd Hall was previously Rector of East Cowes and Whippingham and Area Dean for the West Wight. He then moved to Kent before the lure of the Island drew him and his wife Erica, back.

Brenda Ellison, a churchwarden at St. John’s said: “We have a very good team of people who have all worked hard for today. It is gratifying to welcome so many people to our church.”

Revd Tony Richards, who with the help of retired clergy, has been holding the fort during the Interregnum, explained he was very much looking forward to working closely with Revd Hall

in the future.

Bob Crawley, a churchwarden at St Blasius remarked that it had been many years since they had a paid minister.

He said: “We are all thrilled and are looking forward to engaging in Mission with the other Bay churches under Jonathan’s leadership.”

Bembridge Parish Council poll that voted to save 5/7 High Street rather than sell it. The parish council have ignored this poll and listed the building for sale.

There is no excuse for this failing, I should have spotted it and didn’t. I hold my hands up in embarrassment and apology.

- Joe Burn

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ISLAND SOAPBOX

Send your letters into us at newsdesk@iwobserver.co.uk or post them to IW Observer, Suite 6, 17 St Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL

Disclaimer: Views expressed in these letters are not those held by the IW Observer or its staff. They belong to the author and the author alone.

Let’s keep Keep our Victorian feel supporting our local businesses I read with interest David Holmes’s column last week, and although the opening paragraph made me as uncomfortable as Boris Johnson facing a lie detector, I found much to agree with. Notably, the need to try and keep money circulating locally, spending money in local shops rather than on the internet.

The important word there is “circulating”. Contrary to the views of some misguided souls (who sadly seem to include many in the Government), money isn’t generated here and burned there. It circulates.

This is why the government’s policy of austerity, supposedly introduced to reduce the national debt, has instead seen the national debt rocket upwards. The debt has increased not despite the cuts to public spending the government has introduced, but because of it.

The economic genius John Maynard Keynes called this the ‘Paradox of Thrift’, but it’s easier to grasp with examples. And in this case, reality is the best example.

The government has significantly cut all sorts of services, benefits and wages over the last 8 years. In principle this reduces expenditure and cuts the debt, right? Wrong, sadly. It means the affected people have less money to spend. So profits fall in the local businesses they use. Those businesses then have to cut hours or wages themselves. Their workers then have less money to spend. A vicious circle begins.

More people need benefits and credits to supplement their wages and pay their bills, and people paid less will also pay less tax to the government, either through income tax or spending

By Julian Critchley (VAT). So government spending on benefits rises, and tax receipts fall. And the debt grows. Which is why our national debt in 2017 stood at £1,786 billion, up from £1,076 billion in 2010. All the cuts which have caused so much pain just increased our debt because they took money out of circulation.

We can all see the impact in our local economy, with the struggling town centres of the Island being a direct result of a low pay, seasonal economy where, put simply, not enough money is circulating.

The answer, as Keynes knew, is to put money into the hands of people who will spend it. Pay rises, lower taxes and public investment in projects like building schools and hospitals are all useful ways of doing this. We can also find money which isn’t circulating and put it back into circulation. That means closing loopholes which allow wealthy companies and individuals to remove money from the economy through ‘offshored’ profits and overseas tax havens.

Which brings me back to Mr Holmes’s column. In the longerterm, a change of government should see the large-scale boost our economy needs. In the short-term, every pound we spend in our local shops will do far more to keep the whole island’s economy afloat than another click on a website which will whisk your cash not only off the island, but out of the country altogether.

So let’s get off our screens and walk to local shops. The exercise will do us good, and at least the only thing we’ll then be cutting will be our waistlines.

You mentioned Cornwall being packed with holidaymakers and wondered why the Island is not, well people love Cornwall for its unspoiled villages, towns and seaside communities, and that’s the answer.

Look what has happened to Sandown, the high street needs a paint job, new bunting and old fashioned lighting, the front has been spoiled by that awful monstrosity of retro Art Deco flats that are more in keeping with Miami not the Island.

The Island needs to keep its Victorian look to survive, bring it back to how it used to be,

By Dee King not give it cheap nasty looking buildings that are trying to mimic holiday resorts from abroad. We love nostalgia in this country, that’s what makes us British. I do agree we need to move with the times but let that be for the large cities in the U.K. Keep the Island’s beach fronts in the Victorian era, the beach proms in Sandown especially are looking run down and tatty but please don’t bring new tat to the front, bring it back to the classy Victorian era and it will work.

People love to return to their

childhood holiday resorts to reclaim their fond memories of a good time. People need to have a good visual experience.

Do up the gardens in Sandown, give them some lighting like you see in Torquay. This attracts and gives atmosphere to an area.

The Island doesn’t need the Marbella look, people want to see Victorian Britain - not a replica of other places.

The kitch Christmas lights in Shanklin are a cheap joke, keep them for the winter, put up the old fashioned coloured lights of the true British seaside town don’t be so cheap.

The buses are so expensive it needs to change to attract more people to the Island so people can leave their cars due to the costly ferries.

Foliage, flowers, colourful lighting, paint, and quaint Victorian shops along the seafront - not monstrosities.

This is the answer, look again at Cornwall and Devon - no monstrous nasty buildings, just good old English history. We love that and so do visitors from other countries.

Recognise those who help poor

By Hans Bromwich “In work poverty” disproportionately affects many of our younger generation starting out in life. It also places undue stress on many young families often driving them into debt. With all the associated stress and worry it frequently culminates in relationship tensions and in some cases mental health issues. For those

it effects there can often seem no way out, It’s deeply destructive for our society.

There will of course be businesses on the Island who simply can not afford to pay staff the Living Wage Foundation’s “real” living wage. Conversely, there will be businesses that take pride in ensuring their lowest paid employees receive at least £8.75 per hour, and there will be businesses that could afford

to pay staff the ‘real’ living wage, but choose not to.

I would like to see those companies that are attempting to make life a little better for the poorest on the Island recognised with perhaps a prominently placed sign/sticker saying something along the lines of, “Proud to support and pay the ‘real’ living wage”. This would allow consumers to identify and support these businesses with

their custom, if they so choose.

I hope this strikes a chord with Island MP Bob Seely, who has expressed the desire to make the Island a better place. It’s a simple idea he and his colleagues in County Hall could easily, and cheaply, implement, perhaps through the Council’s Trading Standards Department, and would demonstrate a sincere commitment towards the ideals expressed in Bob’s Manifesto.

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Double award for Isle of Wight gin The team at The Isle of Wight Distillery are celebrating a double victory for two of their gins.

The distillery picked up a silver award for both the original Mermaid Gin, and the HMS Victory Navy Strength Gin at the prestigious International Wines & Spirits Competition (IWSC) awards which took place on August 14.

Co-founder Xavier Baker said: “We are thrilled to win this award for not one but two

of our products. The IWSC is a big deal in the spirits world and to have achieved a silver award in our first three years and be internationally recognised, is an achievement the whole team can be proud of.”

As well as gin, Isle of Wight Distillery produce an OakAged gin, Rock Sea Vodka, Isle of Wight Whiskey and the very latest addition, HMS Victory Navy Strength Rum, released in July.

Although A-levels remain the traditional educational route after GCSEs, they are not the only option.

More and more students are turning towards apprenticeships and vocational qualifications as real alternatives.

Many teenagers picking up their GCSEs on Thursday (August 23) have already been in education for the best part of 12 years.

But these days, teenagers up to the age of 18, are legally required

to stay in education, training or get a job with accredited training - something the government calls ‘raising the age of participation’.

You could do an apprenticeship. The quality and rates of pay have been in the news, but there are lots of fabulous apprenticeship opportunities out there, & lots of organisations who can help and offer you the right information; like UCAS’s website which explains all about apprenticeships.

Are you not quite ready for an

Apprenticeships are way forward for many young

apprenticeship? Need to work on your skills? Don’t worry there are lots of opportunities for you to complete a traineeship – have a look at what a company like EDF Energy can offer you.

If you do fancy college, then there are two types of college – 6th Form college and Further Education college. 6th Form Colleges are mostly geared up for students between 16 and 18-years-old, and tend to concentrate on academic education.

Further Education colleges are generally much bigger than 6th Form colleges and offer a wider range of subjects, including vocational education (BTECs and NVQs), and they’re not just for teenagers.

Further Education colleges offer adult education and degree courses too.

The GOV.UK website can help you find more information about courses offered by schools and colleges in your area if you’re aged between 14-19.

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Alan powers on at 81!

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By Joe Burn

Alan Goodwin has been racing powerboats for 30 years, and he’s the oldest competitor in this year’s Cowes Offshore Powerboat Races.

During his life he’s been a navy submariner, a race car driver and now at the age of 81, he’ll pilot Mr Noisey, a restored powerboat in the Cowes Classic race on Sunday (August 26).

Mr Goodwin got into the sport after two crashes at Goodwood and Brands Hatch, he wrote off the first ever Lola T-490 car “chassis number one”, built

by British racing legend Eric Broadley MBE. He was part of a four-man team of racing drivers known as Magic Roundabout Racing, they drove Davrian cars, which were first built in Clapham, London from 1965 to 1976.

“We all had names of the characters,” laughs Mr Goodwin. “I was Zebedee, they reckoned I spun a lot.”

After his crash at Goodwood

his late wife asked him to pack in the racing. But soon after, a friend roped him into powerboat navigating and they won the Spithead Trophy on his first ever race, a memory Mr Goodwin described as “quite magnificent”.

Then the opportunity of buying Mr Noisy came up, and although it was derelict, Mr Goodwin bought it and restored it some 25 years ago and has been using it ever since.

He admits he doesn’t use it

Alan Goodwin and his team on Mr Noisey

very often because it uses three gallons per mile in fuel.

This weekend the team are hopeful for a first in class in the Cowes-Poole-Cowes race.

“We are really looking forward to it,” said Mr Goodwin. “The people here at Cowes Dry Sailing have done a fantastic job of getting the boat ready - the boss of them Tristan Ormiston, who is actually my throttle-man, so it’s in his best interest to get it going well. He and Jim the two proprietors have worked magic.”

Left to right: Colleen Sweeney, Trustan Ormiston and Alan Goodwin

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YOUR

WEEKEND SORTED!

What’s On - Where to go - Theatre Music - Arts - and much more...

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Joe back in town Teddy Bears picnic for a few laughs returns to Northwood Comedian Joe Pasquale makes a welcome return to Shanklin Theatre on Wednesday (Aug 29th) with his 30th anniversary tour ‘A Few Of His Favourite Things’. Joe first burst onto our TV screens 30 years ago on ITV’s New Faces talent show.

A regular at Shanklin Theatre over the years, the funny man with the squeaky voice is back to entertain fans with a celebraton of his best stuff, including a few naughty - but not too naughty words. He said: “Let your inner child loose and learn to laugh and play again.”

Joe has recently been starring in the stage production of the iconic TV series Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em. He took on the role of the hapless Frank Spencer in a show originally written as a BBC comedy series by Ray Allen, who lives in Ryde.

Ray is now working on an autobiography, which he says he is trying to make ‘a bit different’ from the norm. He already has the book’s title, using one of Frank’s catch phrases ‘I’ve Had A Bit Of Trouble’.

If you go down to ‘NorthWOODS’ tomorrow (August 25), you’re sure of a big surprise!

The IW Scouts are holding their Teddy Bears Picnic. It’s open to anyone of any age, so just take yourself and Teddy to Northwood House, Cowes between 2pm and 5pm.

There will be some Scouting activities to try, and prizes to be won, including one for the grandest Teddy Bears Picnic.

So go along, have some fun, and and help raise funds for IW Scouts and Northwood House.

Ray and Joe (pictured) caught up with each other in the dressing room at Shanklin Theatre the last time Joe was in town.

SHANKLIN THEATRE Shanklin Theatre, Prospect Road, Shanklin, PO37 6AJ. T: 01983 868000. www.shanklintheatre.com

inner child loose and learn to laugh and play again.

7.30pm, Wednesday, 29 August 2018 - £20 ‘The Dressing Room’ Cannon and Ball Fri, 31/08/18

Forever In Blue Jeans Tues, 28/08/2018 Come and join one of the greatest party’s in town as Forever In Blue Jeans celebrates 21 happy and successful years “On The Road”.

A perfect feast of entertainment with superb singers, dancers and musicians playing the best in Country Music and Rock ‘n’ Roll.

The terrific “Red Hot Blue Jeans Band” perform stunning instrumentals and the show ends with everyone invited to the party for the Grand Finale of the great Neil Diamond hit Forever In Blue Jeans .

Bring the whole family and come and enjoy one of the liveliest and happiest shows of them all Forever in Blue Jeans where the star of the show is the show itself.

7.30pm, Tuesday, 28 August 2018 - £20

Joe Pasquale - A Few Of His Favourite Things Wed, 29/08/18 Joe Pasquale burst on to our TV screens 30 years ago on ITV’s New Faces.

Now he’s on his 30th anniversary tour ‘A Few Of His Favourite Things’; a celebration of his best craic, plus some surprises on the way! Let your

with

Touring by public demand, the hilarious comedy play, written

by Bobby Ball, that combines sitcom with variety and comedy. Part play, part variety show - a whole night of great entertainment!

Set behind-the-scenes at a rundown theatre Tommy Cannon and Bobby Ball find themselves involved in the crazy goingson of compère Stu Francis and fellow comic Johnnie Casson.

So get ready to get your ‘hankies’ out to wipe away tears of laughter. Suitable for all the family!

7.30pm, Friday, 31 August 18 - £20

Ryde Carnival is UK’s best CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

Ryde Carnival wins the “UK’s Most Popular Carnival” award!

Ryde Carnival was chosen by the UK’s rental giants HolidayLettings.co.uk as one of the final 11 competitors in the running to be named the UK’s Most Popular Carnival 2018.

To win this award, they needed to receive the most votes on the Holiday Letting’s website by midnight on August 21.

The final vote count stood at Ryde Carnival 4365, Wells Carnival 3867 and Bridgewater Carnival 1149, according to Holiday Letting’s website.

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Ryde was the only Island Carnival to be chosen for the competition which meant that the other seven (Cowes, Newport, Freshwater, Sandown, Shanklin, St Helens, and Ventnor) could get behind Ryde and help them secure the win on behalf of the Isle of Wight.

Voting really took off after Lyn Blackledge, the #GoLiveGranny, joined the Ryde Carnival team to help promote the vote and urge carnival fans to vote in the competition at various events in the last week and through regular live-streams on

Picture by Paul Bird Photography

Facebook over the final days of voting right up to midnight.

A week ago, Ryde Carnival were 800 votes behind Wells Carnival and when voting finished they were almost 500 votes ahead.

Businesses around the Island joined in the campaign urging clients to vote for Ryde Carnival and hundreds of people helped spread the word through social media.

The timing couldn’t be better as next week is when Ryde Carnival celebrates its 130th Anniversary.

Liz Allen, chair of Ryde Carnival Association said: “The Ryde Carnival Team were thrilled to hear we had been nominated for the award and our work recognised at a national level. But we have been completely blown away by the support we have received from so many people that has enabled us to win.

“This clearly shows how much our carnival, and those organised by the other Carnival Associations on the Island, mean to people and why it is so important that, as a community,

Lyn Blackledge and Liz Allen we continue to support the events and the volunteers who make sure they happen every year.

“It also demonstrates the role that carnival can have

in attracting visitors to the Island “home of the UKs most popular carnival”. We are looking forward to celebrating winning this award with three spectacular carnival processions

in Ryde next week – come and join us.”

Ryde Carnival Association organises the three annual summer carnivals that have been held in Ryde since 1888.

Your Weekly Horoscope with Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st - April 20th) Friends give you space to do your own thing when you need it. Workmates aren’t as understanding and one stubborn colleague is getting under your skin. You have your ways, they have theirs and these seem to conflict. You aren’t in the mood to let anyone dictate to you and would rather work alone. Someone who admires your talents will offer you an impressive opportunity. This is your chance to get creative. Doing something exciting will inspire you to delve more deeply into your personality.

TAURUS (April 21st - May 21st) As well as being practical, if you are typical of your sign, you can also be creative. Even work routines can be made a tad more interesting by putting your imagination to work. You will be uplifted by friends who have vivid imaginations and they are likely to generate some bright ideas. Are you single? Don’t be surprised if you fall head over heels in love. You have a magnetic personality and a Pisces or Cancerian seems to be finding you irresistible.

GEMINI (May 22nd - June 21st) You will win the support you need to press ahead with plans to spruce up your home or workplace. This might increase your workload, but this is only temporary.

Besides, with everyone standing to benefit, there will be plenty of offers of help. You and a friend or partner may have recently

gone your separate ways. It hasn’t been easy but you have been able to move forward and make some positive changes in your life. You might meet someone special at a concert, play or gallery.

CANCER (June 22nd - July 23rd) You need to think over a proposition that could mean big changes ahead. You can’t make such an important decision when there’s too much going on around you.

Arrange to have some time to yourself so you can weigh up the pros and cons. A friend or neighbour’s kind comments will give your confidence a boost. Their words will come as a relief as you were starting to wonder whether some of your family and friends actually appreciate everything you do for them.

LEO (July 24th - August 23rd) You cope well in group situations but after giving a lot of time to a team effort, you might decide you want to continue from behind the scenes. Remaining in the background will be surprisingly relaxing. You will continue to get the appreciation you deserve as people in high places are aware of your contribution.

Correspondence needs your attention.

Send a card or letter to a relative who prefers the personal touch and reply to emails from old friends to catch up on their news.

VIRGO (August September 23rd)

24th

-

Resist the temptation to blame yourself for a recent mistake

or misunderstanding. Tension in a close relationship will end sooner than you think. Worrying solves nothing. Be in the moment. Focus on exactly what you need to do when you need to do it. If a job isn’t going as well as you had hoped, it might help to watch how other people approach the same kind of work. This could give you some good ideas on how to improve your performance and efficiency.

LIBRA (September 24th October 23rd) You have some firm intentions of what you plan to do but an unexpected situation will demand your immediate attention. It will upset you to have to let a friend down who was relying on you but they won’t blame you for being thrown off course because of an emergency. If you need advice of a legal or financial nature, instead of wasting time listening to friends, consult a professional. An expert will eventually save you time, money and aggravation.

SCORPIO (October 24th November 22nd) You are more sensitive than usual and your imagination is working overtime.

That’s why you keep thinking there’s a double meaning behind people’s words and actions. If someone is being kind to you, accept this with a grateful heart.

Rejecting their help could cause problems in your relationships. What you really need at the moment is to try to relax more. Accept a friend’s offer of a helping hand. Stay away from your computer and spend time with friends.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd - December 21st) Entertaining visitors from afar will give you the chance to switch off from other responsibilities. You don’t have to go to any great lengths to please people. Order in some pizza if you aren’t in the mood to cook. A friend or relative’s amusing stories will be a constant source of entertainment.

Social and domestic arrangements will be lively, keeping you on your toes. In this sociable and fun week, you probably can’t remember when you last enjoyed yourself so much.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd - January 20th) There are a few things you need to come to terms with. Mostly changes made recently that you haven’t been happy about. It upsets you to have to pull out of social arrangements because other people have mixed up their schedule and expect you to help them out. Your financial situation is stable and there’s no reason why you can’t start to build on this. You have wonderful instincts about money.

A small investment could grow into an impressive nest egg.

AQUARIUS (January 21st February 19th) Your contribution to a team effort will make a big difference to the lives of others. Raising funds for a charitable organisation makes you feel you are doing something useful to help a worthwhile cause. You will raise more money than

you thought was possible. An avalanche of paperwork will need your attention and you could be spending a lot of time in the evenings sorting out correspondence.

Take this opportunity to remove junk files and clean up your computer.

PISCES (February 20th March 20th) You and a housemate are completely in tune. If they want to set the pace, you will happily fall in with their ideas. Mutual respect will keep you working well together even when you are faced with difficult challenges. Working as a team helps you overcome restricting difficulties. A chance to further your career could come your way; be quick to take advantage. Someone has been pulling strings in the background on your behalf. They know you can be trusted and relied upon.

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Wight Proms lays down the red carpet Picnicking Prom-Goers were entertained this weekend by a red-carpet line up of acts for the Inaugural Wight Prom’s.

The Wight Proms – which is the first of its kind on the Island - was held last weekend in the grounds of historic Northwood House in Cowes. With a BBCworthy program of comedy (A Wight Laugh) musical theatre (Wight at the Musicals) and classical music (Last Wight at the Proms) the festival is the creation of X Factor runner-up Mike Christie, a member of the classical G4 group.

“My main motivation for creating this festival was to bring the Island community together and celebrate what incredible home-grown talent we have.”

Christie said “I wanted to give performing opportunities for young singers, in the way that I did growing up, as a way of giving something back.”

The three-day event saw local talent perform alongside a starstudded line-up of musical theatre performers, classical

By Sofia Tindall

singers and comedians.

Saturday evening - which was one of the main attractions, boasted performances from West-End royalty Daniel Boys (BBC’s Any Dream Will Do) and Earl Carpenter (West-End’s Beauty and The Beast and Les Miserables).

Despite minor audioequipment problems, headline act Kerry Ellis (who is best known for her award-winning stint as Elphaba in Wicked both in London and on Broadway) went on to give a gravitydefying performance, supported

by West-End’s Rachel Spurrell and Jemma Harris. Local theatre youth group Theatretrain entertained in the interval.

Sunday’s event saw the musical theme segway from Broadway hits into classical favourites, headlined by classical crossover group BLAKE (by which point, audio equipment issues had been resolved).

The group performed classical hits, and were joined by Chinese X-factor winner Mary-Jess Leaverland in sublime renditions of Nessun Dorma, You Raise Me Up and Time To Say Goodbye.

The Isle of Wight Promenade Orchestra supported throughout, and Island-based group Company B-UK entertained the audience with wartime-themed hits between acts. A Britanniafuelled finale closed the event, with renditions of Jerusalem, Land of Hope and Glory and God Save The Queen.

In a dedicated effort to nurture local talent, free arts workshops for all ages were held throughout the festival, giving aspiring performers the chance to appear in Saturday’s musical theatre show. The final evening also showcased winners from the local Isle of Wight Music, Dance and Drama festival Emma Butler-Hulme, Amelia Luter and Nathan Stubbings.

The Wight Proms will be returning in August 2019.

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There and back again Four teams will be chasing a Harmsworth win at Cowes.

This Sunday at 9.30am eleven boats will roar away from the Solent to make the arduous trip to Torquay and hopefully back again.

2018 will see the 58th time that Offshore Powerboat racing has taken place from Cowes on the Isle of Wight and for four teams, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Warpath, Silverline, Dry Martini and Blastoff Racing not only need to win the coveted Beaverbrook Trophy that comes with a Cowes Torquay Cowes win, the teams need the big points to secure the oldest motorboating trophy in the world, the Harmsworth.

Round 1 was held back in June in Dorset, where the Warpath team of Glenn Chidzoy, Ole Finholt and Gordon Compton won the Fortitudo Property Poole Bay 100. Christian Toll, Mike Bontoft and Michael Peet steered Dry Martini to the

By John Moore

runners-up position.

Later that month the teams travelled to Falmouth in Cornwall, Drew Langdon and Miles Jennings finished ahead of Warpath and took the overall honours in Silverline, some compensation after mechanical issues had relegated them to 5th overall in Poole.

After 2 rounds Warpath goes into the Cowes race with 700 points, Silverline is on 527, Dry Martini 525 and Blastoff Racing’s Dorian Griffith and Will Stevens have secured 320.

The race to Torquay this weekend will count as Round 3 and the Round 4 race back to Cowes is set to start from Haldon Pier at 2pm on Sunday afternoon.

The hot favourite to win the Beaverbrook Trophy is the Swedish team of Mikko Oikari, Lars Eriksson, Michael Backhuvud with Irish ‘bon

viveur’ John Ryan completing the crew.

They are bringing an Outerlimits hull, ‘Going Lean’ which is powered by four Fiat Powertrain diesel motors which push out some 2400 hp.

The 2016 Cowes Torquay Cowes winner, Richard Carr has pulled out all the stops after his Fortitudo Cougar hull suffered extensive and expensive damage at the Poole 100 race. He will be racing with Mark Pascoe and James Sinclair, his usual throttle man Steve Curtis has a prior commitment to race for Geico in the United States this weekend.

The burning question is, after completing the 189.80 NM Offshore Race, will the winning team even have the strength to lift the famous old trophy on Sunday evening at the Royal Yacht Squadron?

You can follow the race via the Cowes Torquay Cowes website: www.cowestorquaycowes.co.uk All pictures by Malc Attrill

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Enjoy a Tiger Tea Party at the Zoo CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

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To celebrate the 50th anniversary of an iconic children’s book The Tiger That Came to Tea the Isle of Wight Zoo is holding a tea party, featuring tigers!

This Bank Holiday Monday (August 27), the striped tea party gets underway and you’ll never guess what - show up in something tigerish and save 25% off the cost of entry.

Everyone is invited to dress up in fluffy ears, striped clothing, complete with tail and your favourite tiger stuffed animal or toy - they can join in the fun too.

The zoo’s five new rescued tigers are chomping at the bit to meet you! There’ll be face painting, storytelling and special afternoon tea for the tigers too.

The Wildheart Trust ensures that every penny you spend goes back to the care of the animals.

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Embrace the great outdoors on the Isle of Wight this summer The sun is shining and the days are longer, leaving ample time to take advantage of all the outdoor activities possible on the Isle of Wight. The stunning Island landscape perfectly lends itself to a range of outdoor offerings from leisurely coastal walks to action-packed watersports.

Keeping it zen Those looking for a lowintensity activity will love Yoga on the beach with Emma.

Aimed at those looking to relax and rejuvenate, these outdoor yoga classes take place on some of the Island’s most pristine shores. Stretch and strengthen the body through a range of land and stand up paddle (SUP) board classes, as Emma leads participants through a series of poses and transitions, designed to help one connect with themselves and their surroundings. These classes

can be customised to fit any occasion from private one-onone sessions and courses, to hen parties and private workshops.

Action-packed adventures The adventure experts at Adventure Activities Isle of Wight are always ready to host the adventurous in a range of land and water offerings. Those looking to stay dry can test their accuracy in archery and axe throwing. With various challenges and games, the whole family can get involved in the fun. If the summer heat is too much, jump in the water for a kayak adventure, SUP session or take a ride on a family-sized Mega SUP. These incredible paddleboards fit up to eight people and come with an experienced guide who will lead the group under cliffs, through coves and down rivers

and creeks before returning for a BBQ. All of these activities are perfect for families looking to create some incredible Island summer memories.

Among the trees Overcome a fear of heights and discover the thrill of tree climbing in the historic Appley Park. Perfect for anyone ages 8-80, the staff at Goodleaf lead groups high up into the open tree canopies to enjoy beautiful views across the Solent. Learn how to safely scale the heights of a 70 ft oak tree before relaxing in tree top hammocks or dare to climb even higher. Goodleaf is happy to tailor their experiences to fit guests’ needs, however their most popular option is the main two-hour climbing experience.

In this session, guests will learn how to master the tree climbing technique so they can climb up into the canopy.

Steam along to Havenstreet It will be full steam ahead to Havenstreet over the August Bank Holiday weekend for the The 44th Island Steam Show at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

The action-packed event is a great family day out, with lots of fun in the main arena including The Sheep Show and Joseph Peace and his Red Hot Fire Show. There are also silly traction engines games, a display by Haven Falconry’s

birds of prey and many more attractions to keep the whole family entertained.

Relish the sight of beautifully maintained traction engines, vintage cars, motorcycles and old wagons, or just enjoy a steam train ride through the Island countryside. There’s also a terrific line-up of live bands and music to enjoy each day on the woodland stage.

There are opportunities to

cool down with an ice cream or a glass of your favourite tipple from our Real Ale bar, and browse around the fascinating stalls, picking up a bargain from the country crafts. The annual Island Steam Show remains one of the favourites on the Isle of Wight calendar and can make the August Bank Holiday a weekend to remember.

With all of these outdoor activities and more, the Isle of Wight really is the best place to experience all that the great outdoors have to offer this summer. Be sure to book now for a truly unforgettable getaway.

Where the wild things are On scorching hot days, who doesn’t love going for a dip in the refreshing ocean. Blackgang Beach is said to have the best wild swimming, with excellent water quality and a long stretch of shoreline. Here, swimmers can take advantage of the incredible views, wild country landscape and privacy – some are even daring enough to go for a quick skinny dip! With so many great swimming locations, there are endless prime swimming locations to discover, so be sure to pack a swimsuit.

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Blackgang Chine celebrates 175 yrs Blackgang Chine has been celebrating its 175th birthday throughout the summer holidays, and the party will be coming to a spectacular end on this August Bank Holiday Monday.

The famous fireworks display will be lighting up the sky and adding some sparkle to the summer, and visitors can also enjoy the theatrical live-action Cowboy Show. There’s the chance to have your photo taken with the stars of the show, then decide whose side you’re on – whether you’re locking outlaws up in jail or staging the biggest

bank robbery Cowboy Town has ever seen!

Be enchanted by the fairy show, as the Fairy Queen and her friends bring a touch of magic to the celebrations.

Hear the stories of the loveable dragon Cedric and his friend’s haphazard adventures in the new Dragon Tales.

To keep the Birthday Bash booming, DJ Omar will be bringing the celebrations to Pirate Cove and providing the soundtrack to the biggest party this summer. The spectacle begins at 10am and continues late into the evening.

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Fishnets & leather boots Has morris dancing become cool? Judge for yourself at the Island Steam Show, Havenstreet, this weekend.

Morris dancing was once a national joke. Remember the Two Ronnies sketch with Ronnie Barker’s very naughty balloon?

On the Isle of Wight, however, morris sides are respected for their contribution to events.

Dancing at Island pubs boosts

trade on quiet evenings. Displays on esplanades add atmosphere.

Our Border Morris sides, Bloodstone and Moonshine, certainly do look seriously cool, with fishnet tights, biker gear and face paints. Guith and Whitgar both go more for a festival style with bright multicoloured clothing. Lastly, Oyster Girls, Men of Wight, Mr Baker’s Dozen and Wight

Bells all opt for a smart, more traditional, uniform look.

Have you been counting? Yes, that’s eight in total, making this a popular Island pastime!

Most will be out dancing this week, either at the Steam Show or elsewhere. Cool or not, they certainly know how to have fun!

See folkonwight.wordpress.com for more details.

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Plenty to enjoy at Garlic Festival!

As most people will know, you don’t need a combine harvester to gather garlic. But those zany West Country boys, The Wurzels, famous for their ‘Combine Harvester’ song among many others, made sure they kept everyone entertained when they took to the main stage at this year’s Isle of Wight Garlic Festival.

And even if the Wurzels were not to everyone’s taste, and garlic was their preference instead, then inevitably there was plenty on offer at the two-day Festival on the usual Fighting Cocks crossroads site. Whether it was garlic cloves, beer, burgers or ice cream, the stallholders displayed the versatility of garlic.

Cloudy weather and strong winds may have kept spectator numbers slightly down this year, but there was still lots to see and

enjoy for the thousands who did turn up. ABBA Chique and the Jersey Boys were among the performers on the main stage as well, while the main arena was graced by the likes of Haven Falconry, The Wight Wizards and the Extreme Bike Battle, as well as The Gaelic Games.

Just across the site, the Hogg Show, hosted by Tom Hogg and Chris P Bacon, and new for 2018, kept visitors entertained with their commentary on the appearance of talented pigs Del Boy and Rodney - obviously The Trotters - on a custom built stage.

The usual large marquees, many full of Island talent and produce, were a popular haunt for lots, with many more stalls, exhibitions and eateries adding to the attractions, along with the popular funfair and the Theatre Kitchen.

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Newport lights up!

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The Newport Illuminated Carnival was a glittering success again this year with a beautiful procession gracing our historic town.

The Illuminated Carnival took place on Saturday (August 18) and featured marching bands adorned with lighting.

The cast of Toy Story also wandered the streets of Newport, all lit up and looking for fun.

The Queens graced us with their serene waves and hand gestures, and a lady in a peacock dress really turned some heads.

A spokesman for the carnival

said: “Thankyou to everyone who entered, watched and donated during our main procession (July 26) and our Illuminated procession this year.

We hope to see you all for our Winter Carnival, more details will be released in due course!

“Newport Carnival Committee would like to extend our thanks to the community and local businesses without whose support we would not be able to hold Newport Carnival each year.

In particular in 2018 we would to like to say a huge thank you to the following; Newport

Parish Council, The Barn Store, Stubbings Bros ~ Tow Vehicle, Newport Lions, all stewards, The Riverside Centre, Matalan (Newport), Matt Whitham, Grant & Seb Norsworthy ~ float build, design and lighting, June Winchcombe for girls’ costumes, volunteer drivers and the dancers.

“Special thanks to the 2018 Carnival Queens & Princesses Emily-Senior Queen, ElissaSenior Princess, Alisha-Junior Queen, Laila-Junior Princess and our reserves Megan and Melanie.”

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SPOT THE DIFFERENCE!

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Can you find all eight differences between the pictures of the Wight Proms

CROSSWORD

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Cowes Torquay Cowes 2016 Winners Richard Carr / Steve Curtis / Paul Sinclair in Cougar 46

The third member of the team is Mr Goodwin’s partner, Colleen Sweeney - she navigated in 2016 when they came second in class, and will navigate on Sunday for their race.

“We’ve had over 70mph in the last three days but we might change the props and are hoping to be over the 80s, approaching the 90s,” explains Mr Goodwin.

“The fastest I’ve ever been in a boat is 83mph.”

Mr Goodwin was in the Navy for around 13 years, spending seven as a submariner. He was stationed on A-Boats, T-Boats, S-Boats and the last submarine he was at sea on was HMS Alliance, which now resides in Gosport’s Royal Navy

Submarine Museum.

Mr Goodwin joked as he explained the effects of powerboat racing on the body, he said: “I’m about 5ft8 but people always joke I used to be 6ft. It’s a stand up boat, you just take it all in your legs. My other half said I wasn’t to mention my age, but it’s state of mind that has kept me going.”

The Cowes Classic CowesPoole-Cowes race starts at 9.45am.

Suggested viewing points for Islanders: Cowes Yacht Haven, Cowes Parade and Green, Egypt Point, Yarmouth Pier, Fort Victoria.

Driver: Alan Goodwin

Tristan Ormiston

Ex-submariner, Island resident for three years and loving the life - lives in Cowes.

Raced cars until big accident at Goodwood and then moved to Powerboats 30 years ago.

Bought Mr Noisy boat previously named ‘HFS’ and obtained permission from Roger Hargreaves to use logos of Mr Men.

Navigator: Colleen Sweeney Alan’s partner, started racing 3 years ago.

She got Mr Noisy to come second in class in 2016.

Works at Ryde Academy.

Throttle man: Tristan Ormiston Owner of Cowes Dry Sailing and Solent Marine Engineering the company who rigged the boat this year.

Also races cars and prepares vehicles to high standard.

Cowes Torquay Cowes 2017 Winners Miles Dobson and James Sheppard in Halycon Connect

Alan Goodwin in a Tiga Sports 2000

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ADVERTORIALS

Anne Ginger can meet the highest standards

Find us on

KITCHENS

BATHROOMS & BEDROOMS www.signaturekitchensiow.co.uk

- DESIGN - SUPPLY - INSTALL PROJECT MANAGED INSTALLATIONS Tel: 01983 520 327 9c Riverway, Newport, IW, PO30 5UX

With more than 30 years experience in producing soft furnishings, Anne Ginger can offer customers a full and complete service to ensure all needs can be met to the highest standards.

Anne and her dedicated team are happy to assist in all aspects of making the right choice for you, from helping you choose the perfect products, through to installation. Anne Ginger specialises in made-to-measure curtains, with a huge range of fabrics to choose from, and no job is too small.

But there is much more to be seen in the Anne Ginger showroom, including a fantastic range of blinds. Anne explained: “As a Luxaflex dealer we can offer their range of blinds, and we are the only establishment on the Island where customers can come and view them.

“We stock all types of blinds, some which people may not have heard of before, such as Pirouette, Facette and Silhouette

in the Luxaflex range. We also stock many types of blinds that are now remotely controlled, so they can be operated through an App on your iPhone, or can be connected to the electrical system within your home.”

All soft furnishings are made in the workroom which sits along side the spacious showroom, which is overflowing with

sample books for customers to browse.

Anne Ginger also stock rugs, wallpapers and even paints to complement the soft furnishings, curtains and blinds.

The showroom is open from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, and from 10am to 4.30pm on Saturdays, and there is no need to book an

appointment – simply walk in and see for yourself, and then turn your dream home into reality.

Anne Ginger Soft Furnishings, 6B Lake Industrial Way, Newport Road, Lake. PO36 9PL. Telephone: (01983) 407730.

Fax: (01983) 408565. Email: info@anneginger.co.uk

Creating your signature look When it comes to choosing a kitchen, bathroom or bedroom everyone has their own individual taste, requirements and budget. But unless help is at hand the right choice can become something of a minefield.

Signature Kitchens IW know how important it is to create the perfect kitchen, bathroom or bedroom that reflects your style, offering quality, durability and creative flair.

The kitchen is arguably the most important room in the home, so you want a kitchen to be proud of, and is a practical one you feel comfortable in.

Signature Kitchens can create your dream kitchen, offering a wide choice to suit all budgets.

They offer free, no obligation quotes, plans, 3D coloured images and a comprehensive installation survey.

Through their Which Trusted Trader accredited sister

company, Wightfit Kitchens and Bathrooms, they also offer a fully project managed installation service with one point of contact, taking the stress and complications away, ensuring you have a beautiful kitchen, bathroom or bedroom for you and your family to enjoy, with the reassurance that all work is compliant and certified.

Since opening their showroom they have built a glowing reputation and portfolio that

can rarely be beaten or matched anywhere on the Isle of Wight.

Visit Signature IW in Riverway, Newport, and let the experts help you from the beginning to the end of your journey in achieving your dream installation.

Signature IW: 9c Riverway, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5UX. Tel: 01983 520 327. Email: info@signaturekitchensiow.co.uk

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ADVERTORIALS

Putting your favourites firmly in the frame Most people have a favourite picture. Whether it’s a family shot, a holiday reminder or just a canvas you have always admired. Whatever your taste, the picture is going to look so much better if it is professionally framed to be hung on a wall.

That is when A. Hathaway Picture Framing can help you. Established in 1999, A. Hathaway Picture Framing is a framing and repair workshop created and run by father and daughter Anthony and Laura Hathaway. Located in Cowes Anthony and Laura offer bespoke and contract framing.

Their workshop holds a large selection of PEFC and FSC approved (marks of responsible forestry) mounts and mouldings with ranges in bare wood of

oak, ash, pine, lime as well as obeche alongside pre-finished mouldings in wood tones, plastic and plastic coated. They can also

create hand finished frames using stains, waxes, painted and hand gilding techniques, with prices to suit all budgets.

The Viking Blind Company is a family-run business, based at Lake Industrial Way, Sandown, offering an extensive range of not only blinds, but shutters, awnings and canopies.

The company was formed 28 years ago by David and Barbara

Jacobs and is now run by their son Mark and granddaughter Imogen, who pride themselves on offering a top quality service at highly competitive prices.

Viking Blinds are also specialists in shutters, which are becoming increasingly popular,

providing privacy, as well as looking great and lasting a long time. They also regulate light and offer excellent ventilation. Viking Blinds can design and install wooden shutters that come in a range of colours, styles and finishes. Whether you’re looking

The family-run company are on hand to give help and advice to customers on the best way to enhance their picture, while ensuring it will also protect it for many years to come.

The A. Hathaway Picture Framing workshop is open weekdays for walk-in inquiries, or just send an email if you would like to make an appointment. If you cannot make it to the workshop during the weekday opening hours weekend appointments are available. The workshop is open 10am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

A. Hathaway Picture Framing, Unit 6A, Northwood Business Park, Newport Road, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 8PE - Tel: 07740 407655.

Top quality service with Viking Blinds

to install wooden shutters for your bay windows or French doors, we can provide you with a range of shutter styles. You can rest assured knowing that all our shutters are crafted to the highest possible standards.

Viking make most of their blinds on site, allowing customers to choose their own particular style, shape and colour before manufacture. The team of blind fitters can provide you with a complete measuring and fitting service.

Viking also provide a wide range of VELUX roof window products, including roller blinds, blackout blinds and Venetian blinds. Simply discuss your needs with the staff and they will be pleased to help.

Why not Improve your domestic and commercial space with the range of awnings and canopies, which are also available? Awnings provide a beautiful space to enjoy, and can also provide a comfortable shaded area.

The Viking Blind Co, Unit 2e Lake Industrial Way, Sandown, PO36 9PL. Tel: (01983) 406652. http:// www.thevikingblindco.com

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Now lacking a bit of sun!

Looking around, the signs of summer are still here but it’s just the bright thing in the sky that we are lacking. Flowers are still showing good displays, the grass is growing (and, unfortunately, so are the weeds!) The weekends are still full of events, shows and festivals and it has been hard to find a clear space to fit everything in. We are so very fortunate on the Island to benefit from such a full calendar of events, many celebrate all that is great and good involving the natural environment around us.

Having just taken my family to the Garlic Festival last weekend, the visit got me thinking about the very best ways to produce quality home grown garlic. I don’t think it is a mystery crop to grow (unlike Asparagus sometimes seems to be) but, as with much of horticulture, creating the best growing conditions will almost undoubtedly set you in good stead to reap the very best rewards. Sourcing the bulbs and bulb selection seems to be a key factor. Names of varieties such as Solent Wight and Caulk Wight are a bit of a give-away that they have been bred locally (by the experts at the Garlic Farm) and importantly, that they will be able to withstand our climate and our wetter-than-otherplaces conditions. Planting can safely take place, depending on the variety, between September and March. The soil type required isn’t too fussy either, just well fertilised and not too heavy or acidic. Choose a sunny spot to plant out the cloves and space them out at 150mm apart and at 30mm deep with the pointy end facing upwards.

Traditionally, harvesting takes place when the stems have turned yellow. With it’s fantastic health benefits Garlic is a great choice for both the vegetable plot and for healthy eating.

There is still time to prepare for growing into the winter season.

Growing a variety of fresh produce that can supplement your winter larder can be very satisfying indeed. The thing is though, this all takes a bit of planning.

If you haven’t already done so, it may be a little late in the year to get in some of the slower establishing brassicas and root vegetables. The majority of these hardy winter vegetables need to be sown in early summer to

enable them to mature enough before the cooler temperatures set in. However, there are plenty of quicker maturing crops to try over the next few months. Lots of oriental salad leaves will grow in cooler climes along with corn salad, land cress and rocket.

Late season, also known as ‘second crop’ potato varieties such as Maris Peer and Charlotte can be grown for a winter treat. This said, I do feel that sometimes there isn’t much to lose in giving it a go in your own plot to see what does thrive when it is sown at this time of year. Sometimes, you get a really nice surprise.

Don’t forget to get in touch with any of your gardening stories or with any plant suggestions that have really worked for you in your plot or allotment this year.

Contact me at m.noyce@ iwobserver.co.uk Can do list this week: • Continue to regularly harvest your well earned crop.

Harvest often to keep your produce fresh and tender.

• Deadhead spent flowers to promote new growth and to keep displays looking fresh.

• Reduce the aesthetic issue of discolouration of marrows, squash and pumpkin by slightly raising them away from the soil.

• Continue to keep an eye out for pests such as aphids and also diseases such as blight on both tomatoes and potatoes (remember not to compost blight affected plants if you intend to re-use it for feeding the soil).

• Keep on top of advantageous weeds before they out compete your prized plants or start to produce seed.

By Matt Noyce

Walk to your heart’s content CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

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In association with The National Trust

Walking is a popular pastime on the Island for locals and visitors alike. The annual Isle of Wight Walking Festival attracts thousands of enthusiasts, while the annual Walk the Wight in support of Mountbatten is a popular event, with many walking to raise funds for such a worthy cause.

It doesn’t matter where you go on the Island, a picturesque walk is not far away.

The National Trust looks after a third of the coast on the Isle of Wight, which means there’s plenty to explore.

From dramatic cliffs with far reaching sea views on Tennyson Downs, to soft sandy beaches

at St Helens and Compton, the coast is a wonderful place to walk. In association with the National Trust, the IW Observer is highlighting just two of the many walks you may find interesting, and a good way of keeping fit, during late summer and autumn:

Taking the Dunsbury trail Dunsbury Estate, purchased through the National Trust’s Neptune Coastline Campaign, has magnificent views.

Start at Brook Chine car park, grid ref: SZ385836. From the car park, take the path into the field just to the left of the track which leads down to the beach. Take the left-hand fork, following the line of the hedge and the road.

Leave the field by the cattle grid and carefully cross the busy Military Road. Go along Brook Village Road and after 220 yards turn left into Coastguard Lane. Follow the track past some houses then the terrace of coastguard cottages.

When the tarmac ends, continue straight ahead on the track signposted ‘BS87 Shippards Chine’. Go through a field gate and past a pond on your left, then through another field gate. Turn right opposite the entrance to Compton Grange along the path signposted ‘BS48 Dunsbury Farm and the Downs’

and head up the field to a crossing track about 110 yards before the fence line.

Turn left along the track.

When you reach Dunsbury Grange on your left, turn right through a gate and head steeply up a field keeping the fence close to your right.

Cross a stile on the ridge and turn right. Go onwards through a field gate and keep just to the left of the ridge top.

Pass through another field gate and follow the grassy path through the next gate. Turn right immediately after the gate on ‘BS86 Dunsbury’. Keep to the right of the track and take the higher level grassy path when the main track bears left and descends. Head downhill to Dunsbury Farm, with hedges on both sides.

Go through two field gates and turn right onto the tarmac farm track, then quickly left after just 40yards between the buildings, signposted ‘BS102 Hamstead

Trail’. The tarmac track bends left then right, heading gently downhill with buildings on both sides. Take the next left and go between hedges to a T-junction with a seat.

Turn right here along BS107 to follow the bridleway down a sunken lane, eventually reaching Badger Lane. Bear right and follow the lane into Brook Village. Turn left to visit the village, or continue with the trail by turning right along the road and go past Coastguard Lane back to the Military Road.

Cross the main road to the track opposite, but unlike the outward path, head straight ahead along the track which services the houses on Brookgreen. From here you can see the old lifeboat station near the cliff edge at Brook Chine.

Just before a little bridge, follow a coast path marker post on the right through a field and head back to the car park.

Dunsbury trail. Picture by National Trust

Shady Borthwood Copse

Borthwood Copse is an easy 1.2 mile, walk through the shady woods. Hidden in the dappled shade of the high tree tops of Borthwood you might spy a red squirrel. If you stand quietly, you might spot one looking down on you, or jumping between the branches. The National Trust carefully manage the woods here to ensure they have a good crop of hazelnuts, which they’ll bury for winter.

Start at the Parish Council car park, off Alverstone Rd on Winford to Alverstone road, and enter the wood and start to descend. The path soon reaches a cathedral-like clearing of beech trees with fallen logs offering good places to sit.

Bear left immediately on entering the clearing and take a rising path, the left-most of two paths leaving the clearing at the same point. Pass through a holly thicket on the way to the top where it begins to open out near the edge of the wood.

Bear right to descend again just

Borthwood Copse. Picture by National Trust before some house gardens.

Bear left at a junction, following the line of the boundary of the gardens and soon the path broadens out in a clearing by an oak tree. Follow this track onwards and downwards, bearing right at a junction to meet an even wider crossing track 25yards further on.

Turn right and follow this main track almost to the edge

of the wood, ignoring all side paths. Over its length, the path rises gently through a gully, then falls, and rises again.

Eventually a field is seen through the trees to the left. Just before a right bend (that leads to a stile 90 yards (80 m) away and out of the wood), turn right along a narrow westerly path which follows the line of the edge of the wood. It rises gently,

emerging shortly after another holly thicket close to a fence into a field on the left. Turn sharp right here and follow the path downwards, past yet more holly, to a crossing track.

Cross the track and continue ahead into the beech wood clearing. Bear left along the edge of the clearing and rejoin the original path. Turn left back to the car park.

22

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

Food & Drink ADVERTORIAL

Don’t miss the fish at Morgans!

Morgans Restaurant has been serving Island residents and visitors for twelve years now and doing a fantastic job of it too.

Owner Tim Morgan prides himself in serving the finest quality produce, sourced mostly from the Island, within his extensive menu.

The Shanklin High Street restaurant offers daily specials, often including freshly caught seafood.

And, if it’s seafood you crave, you must try the ‘Ultimate Cold Seafood Platter’, encompassing fresh Ventnor bay crab, large tiger prawns, anchovies, mussels, atlantic prawns, smoked salmon, caviar served with hot new potatoes, marie rose sauce and mixed leaves.

The ‘Morgans Speciality Four Different Types of Freshly Grilled Local Fish’, is not to be

missed either. But you should ask your attentive waiter/ waitress for today’s fresh catch and they’ll be more than happy to run through the options with you. This delicious feast comes cooked in lemon butter and served with minted new potatoes and fresh market vegetables.

If you can’t be at seaside without fish and chips, then you must not miss ‘Morgans Famous Fish’n’Chips’. The amazingly fresh local fish in their very own crispy batter with homemade zesty tartare sauce, mushy peas and the best chunky chips.

Morgans also serves up superb homemade Italian food, like their authentic Spaghetti Carbonara, made in the proper Italian way with a free range egg yolk, cream, garlic, mushrooms and smoked pancetta. A drop of white wine finishes the dish seamlessly, which is then tossed in freshly made spaghetti - is your mouth watering yet?

Try the Isle of Wight cheese board, including I.O.W Blue, I.O.W. Gallybagger cheddar and I.O.W. Soft, served with a mixture of biscuits, homemade red onion and plum chutney and grapes - you never knew the Island tasted so good.

Tim brought his dream of owning his own restaurant back to the Isle of Wight in 2006, after working in several top London restaurants. Tim has even worked alongside renowned Chef Marco Pierre White.

For all enquiries and reservations please call 01983 864900.

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

CONTACT US ON: 01983 216111

23

Jobs

24

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

Vinyl Fitter / Sign Installer We are currently looking for an experienced vinyl fitter/Installer to work as a part of our dynamic and professional team.

The role will include all aspects of sign manufacturing from initial design through to installation. You must have experience in vinyl application, sign installation & vehicle wrap (further training is available for wrapping). You must have a clean driving licence.

Competitive Salary is available to the right person, and dependant on experience.

Please email CV’s to: info@thesigncompanyltd. co.uk, or post to the following address: The Sign Company Ltd First Floor, 15 High Street, Newport PO30 1SS For further information please contact

Paul on 01983 520047

Hotel Receptionist The Seaview Hotel Hours between 30-40 per week

Rota will include working evening and weekends.

Shift pattern 7am-3pm, 3pm-11pm though this does vary.

The multi-award winning Seaview Hotel Restaurant and Bar is looking for someone to play a key role in reception. We are looking for

someone who is passionate about customer service, sales and driving the business forward. This is a role suitable for a cheerful communicator who genuinely cares about the guest experience.

Please email: manager@ seaviewhotel.co.uk

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

CONTACT US ON: 01983 216111

25

Jobs

Richmonds Bakery and CafĂŠ Part- time Assistant Baker We are looking for an enthusiastic baker to join our team at Richmonds. Having recently opened our new Bakery and CafĂŠ in Cowes, our workload has dramatically increased and is expanding.

Approx 15hrs per week. We are offering a competitive rate of pay as well as flexible working hours. No qualifications are necessary, however experience is preferred.

Ideally the successful applicant would have their own transport and a clean full UK driving license, but this is not necessary.

For any questions, please call 01983 716657 and ask for Imogen.

ADVERTISE YOUR JOBS FOR FREE

For the next 12 weeks advertise your job vacancy for free. Sorry first come first served.

26

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

Carisbrooke Castle is facing a fresh threat CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

The castles of England have survived sieges and bombardments, attacking armies and wars but now castles are facing a new threat – invasive weeds, penetrating damp and severe weather.

English Heritage looks after 66 castles across England – more than any other organisation in the UK – and this year will spend around £1.9m on wall repairs including removing deep-rooted harmful weeds like ivy and valerian.

One of the castles English Heritage will be helping restore is our very own Carisbrooke Castle - how noble of them.

A spokesman for English Heritage said: “At Carisbrooke we are undertaking extensive work on the north section of the curtain wall and the castle keep to remove overgrown vegetation, and repair and protect the walls underneath.

“The project started this spring and is planned to run through into the autumn.

“The work includes; removal of woody growth, such as Ivy, rooted in the walls, repointing open mortar joints, shoring up of any loose stones or voids, replacement of eroded stones and Minor structural works to the entrance bridge.”

As part of its #LoveCastles summer season, the charity is running a crowd-funding appeal in support of its castles and calling on the public to help protect these stone landmarks

27

for future generations to enjoy.

Kate Mavor, English Heritage’s chief executive, said: “So far this summer we’ve seen more people than ever visit the castles in our care. But if these fortresses are to survive for future generations to enjoy, we need people’s help to defend them today – not from sieges or cannon balls but from weeds and damp, the wind and the rain.”

From Carisbrooke to Cumbria, more people are visiting castles than ever before – since the start of May, a record 1.2m visitors have enjoyed a day-out at an English Heritage castle (a 10% growth on last year).

English Heritage is aiming to raise £50,000 via its castles crowd-funding appeal. £25 can pay for one square metre of invasive vegetation to be expertly removed. £50 can pay for three hours of the skilled stonemasonry needed to conserve the walls. £75 can pay for half a square metre of stonework to be repointed with bespoke lime mortars.

In return, supporters of English Heritage’s castles crowd-funding appeal will receive rewards for their generosity including private tours of a castle of their choice and a chance to fire a cannon at either Dover Castle in Kent or Pendennis Castle in Cornwall. To donate, visit www. crowdfunder.co.uk/defend-ourcastles.

Pictured Carisbrooke Castle

Picture by English Heritage.

Picture by English Heritage

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

28

Local Services

CONTACT US ON: 01983 216111

MAN & VAN Removals

Any job undertaken From whole house moves to single items Full mainland coverage 10 Years experience Ring Ben for quotes

07500 253334

AQUIUS PLUMBING SERVICES

BEN SUMMERS

Friendly reliable services for installations of bathrooms, boilers & kitchens, repairs to pipework, taps etc.

Team includes electricians, carpenters and plasterers.

Rubbish & House Clearance.

Same day callout.

If it fits in the van I can move it 24/7 honest and reliable van and driver from £15

07500 253334

07794 248677

Fully Licenced.

IW- 282936 07891 703945

JUNGLES CLEARED - make your garden manageable.

ONE CALL DOES ALL

RYDE TAXIS JET LINK

EVERY AIRPORT CONNECTION PRICES FROM £165 GATWICK/HEATHROW RETURN Inc. FERRY TICKETS

24HOUR SERVICE

PROFESSIONAL, COURTEOUS AND DEPENDABLE

Phone 01983 811111 airports@rtcars.co.uk

WHY PAY MORE?

MAN & VAN FOR ANY JOB

Clearance, layout, patios, concrete, bases, fencing, turfing.

07514 045355 KEVINS GARDENING Leylandii, hedge, shrub, grass cutting, tree work, felling, pruning, jungles cleared and removed. Fully insured with free estimates. Tel: 01983 609390 ALAN’S GARDENING Turfing, hedgecutting, small tree work, stump grinding, power washing, fencing.

Mob: 07963 451653, IW: 857499 HOUSE CLEARANCE AND RUBBISH REMOVAL Reliable friendly service with competitive prices, items recycled whenever possible.

Tel: 01983 532424 Mob 07967 914038 ARTEX SMOOTHED OVER - Tape and Jointing. Damaged walls and ceilings repaired. Call Mike on 07783 911 611 ACCOUNTS PREPARED Tax returns completed & submitted for fixed fee. £95. Ring Ashey Associates. 01983 638317 GENERAL HOMEHELP/ CLEANER - Offering a friendly, reliable service at good rates.

Debbie - 07921 921495 DOMESTIC CLEANING - Jenny Wrenn. 25 Years experience. Domestic cleaning services, Islandwide. Call Jenny on 07742 404743

delpage@btinternet.com

Slick Vics secure first league win CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

East Cowes Vics clicked into gear to record their first Sydenhams Wessex League Division One win of the new season against previously unbeaten New Milton at Beatrice Avenue.

It looked a difficult encounter for Vics manager Steve Brougham and his young side against an attack-minded mainland outfit, but they stuck to their task to record a deserved 3-0 success.

Brougham said afterwards: “New Milton are a good team, but we turned in a great performance. To get results like this you need every player doing well, and I couldn’t fault anyone.

Now I want to see more displays like this one, because we want to finish higher up the table than we have in the last couple of seasons.”

Vics were given a boost when they took the lead in the 14th minute. A long ball played forward fell to the hard working Jimmi Burton who rounded the onrushing keeper and finished coolly into the empty net.

New Milton went in search of the equaliser, but were stunned again when Vics doubled their lead in the 19th minute. Home keeper Will Hunt made an important interception with his legs, and the ball fell to Jimmy

Burton whose long, raking pass found Keelan Walsh to slot home.

Brougham’s boys might have added to their advantage a couple of times, when in quick succession Burton’s attempted lob was saved by the New Milton keeper before Elias Ahmed was in on goal, but a heavy touch meant the keeper gathered safely.

Vics made the game all but safe during time added on in the first half. They were awarded a free kick 20 yards out, and Burton hit a fierce effort which the keeper just managed to stop.

But the ball rebounded out and

Elias Ahmed was first to react, slamming his effort high into the net.

Vics continued to carve out opportunities in the second period, before New Milton had a great chance in the 66th minute.

But another fine save to add to the list from Hunt ensured he kept his clean sheet.

Both sides had further efforts on goal, but both keepers were alert, and the clean sheet for Vics was an added bonus in what was a fine all-round display.

Vics are at home to Totton and Eling this Saturday before facing Newport at St George’s Park on August Bank Holiday Monday.

Hero Hall ensures victory for Newport Newport maintained their bright start to their Sydenhams Wessex League, Division One campaign with a 2-0 victory over Petersfield.

Port manager Andy Sampson said: “I was very pleased with the overall performance because we were more consistent over the whole 90 minutes than we have been in our previous games.

Petersfield have been picking up some good results, including a win at Guildford in the FA Cup, so it was a great win for us.

“We looked threatening up front, and strong at the back, and when they did get behind us our keeper Ryan Hall mopped everything up with a Man of the Match performance.”

The visitors had the early chances, forcing Hall into a number of fine saves, first from Olly Kershaw in the sixth minute, then from Harry Giles in the seventh. But after weathering the storm, Port broke the deadlock in the 40th minute

as Jared Wetherick scored his third goal in three games. Joe Craig made a fine run down the left, before crossing to George Holmes. His shot was parried but then fell to Wetherick, who blasted home from 10 yards.

A minute later, the Port nearly added a second, when Mark Taylor appeared to have been fouled in the Petersfield area, but no penalty was awarded.

Petersfield showed fighting spirit after the break but continued to be frustrated by Hall’s agility between the posts.

Then defender Spike Pearce made the game safe for the Port, rising above the Petersfield defence to score a superb headed goal from a Lewis Wright corner in the 70th minute.

On Saturday (August 25th) Newport play away at Wimborne Town in the Preliminary Round of the FA Cup, and on Bank Holiday Monday take on local rivals East Cowes Vics at St George’s Park (3pm kick off).

29

Greenkeeper kept busy at Newport!

There has been plenty of action at Newport Golf Club over the past few days, with three Stableford events, as well as a Medal competition, and the Greenkeeper’s Revenge Scramble.

The latter resulted in a victory for the quartet of Benj Jervis, Terry Philips, Ashley Wright and Mark Hancott with a 62.

They were followed home by Jackie Mouat, Terry Hopkins, Mark Deacon, Gary Wharton on 63, with Sean O`Brien, Simon O`Brien, Nawin Suprakoson and Steve Johnson, also 63, taking third spot on countback.

A nine-hole stableford nonqualifier was won by Andre Coombes, playing off 25, with 16 points. Then James Cheek, playing off nine, took the honours in a nine-hole stableford qualifier with 17 points, ahead of of 19-handicapper Adam Ridett, who scored 15 points. Adam Ridett then went one better in the 18-hole stableford with a very impressive 43 points.

There was fierce competition in the Sunday Medal with firstplaced Mark Sims, runner-up Stephen Johnson and Paul Gunnell in third position, all shooting a net 67.

Wilson hat-trick fires up Brading Brading began the Harwoods Renault Saturday League Division One in style, hitting six without reply past Osbourn Coburg. Oli Wilson scored a hat-trick for Brading, with Dan Vale, Caymen Collins and sub Aidan Radford also on the scoresheet.

Ventnor and Sandown kicked off the new season with a ninegoal thriller. In a see-saw game,

the result could have gone either way, but eventually it was visiting Sandown who claimed the points with a 5-4 victory. In Division Two, Ryde Saints were the biggest scorers, racing to an 8-2 home victory over St Helens BS, and there were plenty of opening day goals at Wroxall, with the home side suffering a 4-3 defeat at the hands of Niton Community.

Division One: Binstead and COB 0 Brading Town 6 East Cowes 0 E.C.S.1 Shanklin 4 Ventnor 4

West Wight 1 Osbourn Coburg 0 Pan Sports 2 Whitecroft and Barton 1 Newport Res 0 Sandown 5

Division Two: Adgestone 1 Brighstone 1 Oakfield 5 Ryde Saints 8 Seaview 5 Wroxall 3

AFC Wootton 3 Newchurch 2 East Cowes Vics A 1 St Helens BS 2 Yarmouth and Calbourne 1 Niton Community 4

Little joy for Yachtsmen Medal win for Paul Cowes Sports caretaker manager Ian Potts accepted his side were second best throughout as they lost their Sydenhams Wessex League, Premier Division clash at Baffin Milton Rovers 4-1.

Potts refused to use the recent departure of former Yachtsmen boss Steve Hunt as an excuse for the display, saying: “We weren’t very good, and they played football the right way. They were the better team all over

the pitch. They are one of the stronger sides in this division, have a bit of financial backing, and I can see them finishing in the top four or five.”

The home side took an early lead, but the Yachtsmen hit back to equalise when a John McKee effort was deflected into the net by a Baffin Milton defender.

However, the home side added two more before the break, with Potts admitting: “That was what

killed us off. We changed a few things round at half time, and played better in the second period, but by then the damage had already been done.”

The Yachtsmen battled to get back into contention, but Baffin Milton put the result beyond doubt when they added a fourth near the end.

Potts added: “It is still a learning curve for some of our players. Naturally they were

disappointed to see Steve leave us, but they know what’s what, and have to get on with it.

Sometimes you have to put your hands up, and admit you came up against a better side, and his was one of those occasions.”

The Yachtsmen will be hoping to repair the damage in the three home games that are coming up in the next three weeks.

Paul Woolford took the honours in a keenly contested Monthly Medal at Osborne Golf Club.

The Division One competition was decided on countback, with Paul pipping Matthew Purser.

Results: Monthly Medal: Division 1; Paul Woolford 68 net, Matthew Purser 68, Keith Williams 70, Division 2; Kenneth Daniel 71, Peter Catchpole 71, Mark Temple 72. Division 3; Barry

Geary 68, Kevin Suitor 74, Roger Cooper 74.

Stableford: Division 1; Stephen Kitcher 40, Paul Woolford 37, Bob Wilson 36: Division 2; Mick Priddle 42, Mark Stephens 36, Adrian Newbold 36; Division 3; Paul Cates 42, Malcolm Medway 37, Richard Couse 37.

Stableford, All Men: David Stephens 39, Hugh Fowler 39, Mike Spall 38.

Opportunity knocks for talented Island athletes 30

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

The Isle of Wight Council’s Talented Athletes’ Scheme, supported by Wightlink, is allowing many of the Island’s youngsters to travel across to the mainland to compete in events.

Wightlink provides athletes with subsidised travel to help them attend training and competitions, and the benefits are already beginning to show through.

One of the first events of its kind saw 17-year-old keen sailor Toby Atherton from Cowes, and his teammate Henry Jameson from Hayling Island, take part in the 29er National and European Championships.

Toby and his teammate Henry Jameson who is from Hayling Island.

The first day of the Nationals, at Hayling Island, was too windy to sail, and although the wind continued on the second day, the race committee managed to squeeze in two races, with Toby and his colleague having two third placings. which was a great start. They stayed consistent through the week, being placed fifth overall, a result he was very satisfied in achieving.

Toby said: “We then packed up and flew straight to

Toby Atherton

Helsinki in Finland. We had some interesting and varied conditions from random chop, ferries barging through the fleet and rogue rocks in the middle of the course. “We qualified in high in the gold fleet which was great, but then had some unfortunate damage to the boat that dropped us back a few places. We finished 22nd overall which was not what we had hoped for, however, not at all bad considering there were 137 boats competing. We were third British boat in the event, which was still a good result.”

Toby is currently studying at Brockenhurst College for A-levels in PE and Geology, also a BTEC in Applied Science. He also attends the Brockenhurst College Hockey Academy.

He and his sailing partner Henry are reflecting on a successful season together and are currently taking stock and deciding on their options for next season.

Toby said: “After a really good season we are currently considering our options for next year – which includes aiming to be re-selected for the RYA British Youth Squad.

This would provide me and my helm, Henry, with expert coaching throughout the winter months and help us prepare for our ultimate goal of competing in next year’s European Championships in Lake Garda and the World’s being held in Gdynia, Poland.”

Other Talented Athletes taking part in forthcoming events include: Arthur Attrill (tennis), Hampshire/IW County Championships, Winchester.

Jenny Ball (swimming), European Masters Championships, Kranj, Slovenia and Lake Bled.

Poppy Bennett (dressage) Under 21 Championships (Team), Lincolnshire.

Archie Cale (moto racing/speedway), Grasstrack meeting, Waterlooville.

Kath Bright (shooting), Home International (South Wales) and British Open ABT (also South Wales).

Warriors tame unlucky Lions Ventnor ease to The Isle of Wight ‘Wightlink’ Warriors entertained some of the best up and coming riders in the under-19 age group in a special team speedway challenge match at the Andrew Younie Smallbrook Stadium.

The home side ran out comfortable 52-37 winners, but the Young Lions suffered two early bouts of misfortune that certainly impacted on the final outcome. In heat two they hit trouble as their reserves failed to negotiate the first two corners.

Lewis Whitmore lost control of his machine following a mechanical issue, inadvertently forcing team mate Alex Spooner into the safety barrier. Both riders returned to the pits, but Spooner was unable to come out for the re-run, then Whitmore encountered more engine problems on the way to the start and the second race went ahead with just two Warriors.

Two further heats followed before the track paramedic was needed to look after Spooner.

another victory

B Morley, J Bursill and B Woodhull.

Picture by Ian Groves

With the Young Lions’ condition causing some concern, the County Ambulance had to be summoned and racing was suspended for almost an hour whilst the track medics assisted the stricken rider.

When racing resumed, the

Warriors big hitters Alfie Bowtell and Ben Morley turned on the style, riding unbeaten by an opponent throughout the evening, despite good riding from the Young Lions.

Warriors : Alfie Bowtell 14+1, Danno Verge 5+1, Scott

Campos 8+1, Chris Widman 1, Ben Morley 12, Jamie Bursill 3+2, Shaun Tedham 9+1.

Young Lions : Leon Flint 10, Ben Woodhull 5+1, Joe Lawlor 8+2, Jason Edwards 9+1, Taylor Hampshire 5, Alex Spooner 0, Lewis Whitmore 0.

Ventnor Cricket Club continued their run of fine form in Division One of the Southern Premier League with a three-wicket win over Old Tauntonians and Romsey at Steephill.

The visitors won the toss and elected to bat, but were soon in trouble against Ventnor’s opening attack of Zeph Wells and Chris Russell, losing both their openers with just 11 runs on the board.

After slumping to 33 for four, they rallied, thanks for a fifth picket partnership between Iain Woodhall (37) and Charlie King (56). Even so, they continued to struggle against Wells, who finished with an impressive four for 33 off his 10 overs, and were finally all out for 160 in 49.1 overs.

Despite losing Tom Friend with only 11 on the board,

Ventnor’s reply was ably led by James Cheek, whose half century included eight boundaries. He was well supported by Neil Westhorpe (38), with the pair putting on 68 for the third wicket.

Despite a middle order collapse, that saw four wickets fall for nine runs, the Island side rallied, and reached their target in the 42nd over, thanks for an unbroken seventh-wicket stand of 51 between Ben Woodhouse (30) and Rob Snell (16).

The success earned Ventnor 20 points, including four each for batting and bowling. They remain in fourth place in the table with 191 points, for a match average of 13.643.

Ventnor’s next two games are off the Island. They travel to Liphook and Ripsley this weekend, before visiting Hartley Wintney on September 1st.

CALL THE NEWSDESK ON 01983 216111

Adam: It was time to change Continued from back page injury. I had several operations on my right shoulder, and after the fourth op when I was about 23, the surgeon told me playing probably wasn’t going to be possible at any decent level.

In all, I dislocated my right shoulder eight times, so it was time to stop.”

Adam, also an IT consultant, wanted to stay with the game, and after considering other options, he almost by accident fell into refereeing after officiating at the Ryde Rugby Beach Sevens. He said: “That was five years ago, I really enjoyed it, and decided that was the path I wanted to go down.”

His rise to prominence as a ref was astronomical in the following three years. He passed an entry level exam, joined the Hampshire Society of Referees, and began at the bottom, Level 13 - basically ungraded. He was officiating several games a week to gain experience, and by the end of the first season had shot up to Level 7.

He said: “The following season I rose to Level 5, the first point you become involved in the

31

James and Clint pedal to time trial victory Island-based TeamSpy cyclists James Veal and Clint Oliver took top spot on the podium when they travelled to The New Forest to race in the Bournemouth Arrows CC 2-Up Time Trial event.

Covering the rolling 10-mile P311 course in just 21mins 37secs with an average speed of 27.8 mph, the pair, both recently selected for the 2019

Island Games Cycling Team in Gibraltar, rode perfectly as a unit to take the top spot and bring the cup home for TeamSpy and the Isle of Wight.

Also taking part in the individual event was fellow TeamSpy rider, Paul Martin, who crossed the line with a personal best time of 23mins 21secs, placing him in the top 10.

Gary Kurth, 40, from Isle of

Adam on the line at Twickenham. Picture by Brian Tempest national set-up, and I joined the South West group, officiating bigger games. Within a year I was promoted to the National Panel of Referees, comprising the top 34 refs in the country. I had no expectation of rising at the pace I did, and couldn’t have done it without the support of the Hampshire Society.”

Adam’s parents Sharon and Andrew still live in Ryde, and although he is now mainlandbased, he returns to the Island as often as possible. Meanwhile, he is now a Level 2 referee, just

one below the Premiership, and is currently one of just four consultant professional match officials who work for the Professional Referees Unit, and are highlighted as potential Premiership referees.

That enables him to referee in the Championship and run the line in the Premiership, gaining the experience that should take him right to the top. He added: “I would like to think I can put myself in a position to referee a Premiership game sometime this season, but only time will tell.”

Doro Simmen on Just Chaka

Wight, the TeamSpy triathlete and four-time Ironman finisher Gary Kurth competed recently at The Swedeman, one of Europe’s toughest full iron distance events. Recently named in Tri 220 as one of the five toughest iron distances of all time, the 3.8k swim leg in the Öster-Noren finished under Sweden’s largest waterfall.

Gary led the entire field and exited in first place into transition one before moving onto the bike. With a distance of 205 kilometres and a total ascent of 2300m, Gary entered transition two in a strong position before heading out onto the 42k of Scandinavia’s toughest ever multi-terrain marathon and another 2500 metres of ascent.

Due to the severity of the snow, ice and strong winds in the final 10k, Gary was joined by a support runner – brother Brad – to accompany him. The pair reached the summit of the mountain to give a total finish time of 15:42:19 taking 70th place out of a starting line-up of 240 athletes in one of Europe’s toughest extreme triathlons.

Kingates Equestrian England honour for see double victories Ryde cox Sharon England Team, with Ryde R. C. member Sharon Ayles on the left.

Unaffiliated showjumping at Kingates Equestrian saw over 50 rounds of jumping throughout the day with classes that catered for all levels of horse and rider, starting with the 6-inch lead rein up to 3’6”.

Three of the competitors managed to scoop two first placings each. Caitlin Dologhan started the day winning the first two classes on her pony Belle, followed by Keira Harper on Dolly taking both first places in the 2’3” and 2’6”. Helen Short riding Ellie finished off the day

winning both the 2’9” and 3ft classes.

The summer series is kindly sponsored by Vectis Equine Vets

and the Championship which is open to all will take place on Sunday, September 9th.

Scoble shows ‘em Richard Scoble, with a handicap of seven as well as dodgy knees, was a convincing winner of Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club’s Open Stableford at the weekend. He scored an impressive 44 points, to finish

ahead of Richard Pardey (12 handicap) with 40 points and Sean Millward (13) with 39.

Another Open Stableford the following day was won by Ray Winter, playing off 14, with 40 points.

Ryde Rowing Club member Sharon Ayles was in the England team that competed in the first ever Commonwealth Beach Rowing Sprint Championships, which were held at Sandbanks Beach, Poole.

Eight commonwealth countries, Barbados, Canada, England, Namibia, Scotland, Uganda, Vanuatu & Wales, were all represented at this inaugural, one of a kind, rowing event.

Sharon coxed the England

Mixed Coxed Coastal Quad, and also supported the management and coaching of the England squad.

In this style of racing, in FISA Coastal Boats rather than the Club’s usual type of boat, crews started on the beach and sprinted to their boats, which were held in the water by boat holders. They then slalomed out to sea for 250 metres before turning round the final marker buoy for a straight sprint back to

shore. When they reached land, one member of the crew jumped out and sprinted up the beach to cross the finish line.

Unfortunately the English crew, who experienced some difficulties with their boat, were defeated in the semifinal by Wales. But it was a great experience for Sharon, and an honour for Ryde to have a representative in the competition.

Sport 32

It’s official!

Adam heading for the top

By Peter White

EXCLUSIVE

A former Ryde High School pupil, forced to give up playing Rugby because of persistent injury, is now taking huge strides towards becoming one of the game’s leading referees in the entire country.

Adam Leal from Ryde is already a fully qualified official at Championship level, meaning he referees games between the likes of London Scottish, London Irish, Bristol and Richmond. He is also a linesman for Premiership games - the highest level of English Rugby - where clubs such as Saracens, Wasps, Leicester Tigers and Harlequins play.

Adam, 29, was also a linesman this year for the annual match at Twickenham between the Army and Navy in front of 82,000 spectators, and if his progress continues as many anticipate he will soon be among the top Rugby refs in England.

Adam, who went to school at Mayfield Middle and Ryde High, only decided to become a referee after he was told he could no longer play Rugby. He said: “I started playing at school, then joined Ryde Rugby Club before moving to the Isle of Wight Rugby club, and I loved it, especially the social side.

“But my career was ended by

Island Rugby teams to play in new format There is a new league system for Rugby Union teams playing in the Hampshire League this season, including Island clubs Sandown and Shanklin, Isle of Wight and Ventnor.

A new Premier Division has been formed for the 2018-19 season, and for the first time the Second teams of some of the larger clubs in the County are included.

The Hampshire Premier League will comprise: New Milton & District, Basingstoke, Bognor, Fordingbridge, Gosport & Fareham 2nds, Sandown & Shanklin RFC, Alresford, Milbrook, Eastleigh 2nds, Fareham Heathens, Tottonians

2nds and Portsmouth 2nds.

Hampshire One will include Farnborough, Isle of Wight, Ventnor, Lockheath Pumas, Trojans 2nds, Ellingham & Ringwood, Southampton, Andover 2nds, Romsey, Overton, Alton and Winchester 2nds.

The new season kicks off on Saturday, September 8th with S&SRFC at home to Portsmouth 2nds, Isle of Wight W at home to Andover 2nds and Ventnor at home to Alton., Meanwhile S&SRFC and IOW 2nds will be playing in the Waterfall Solent 3 league, and Ventnor 2nds & Ryde XV will be in the Waterfall Solent 4 league.

Sharp wins Half Marathon double

Continued on page 31

Bank Holiday derby clash Isle of Wight football rivals Newport and East Cowes Vics will cross swords for the first time this season on August Bank Holiday Monday (3.0pm).

The Port and Vics will face up to each other at St George’s Park, Newport, in a Sydenhams Wessex League Division One

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clash, with both sides eager to secure three points and bragging rights.

Both will be relying on young Island talent to see them through a challenging campaign, which includes taking on many mainland teams with sound financial backing, but both will

want to win this one!

Newport boss Andy Sampson said: “The Vics have been doing well so it will be a difficult game, but one we are relishing. We’ve had a couple of decent results, so hopefully we can pick up another.”

Vics manager Steve Brougham

added: “It will be an important game for both teams. We are just looking for points to finish as high as we can in the table. It should be a good game between two young sides, and many of the lads will be experiencing this particular local derby for the first time.”

Matt Sharp saw off more than 300 other runners to win the 34th annual Isle of Wight Half Marathon for the second successive year.

Sharp from the Island based TeamSpy, clocked a phenomenal time of 1hour, 12mins, 31secs, in a field that comprised 203 men athletes and 95 women, and included 144 Island runners.

Joe Wade of Isle of Wight AC took second place, in a time of 1:13:20, with third spot going to Sam Mitchell from Notts AC in 1:13:57.

Cole Pearce, who competes for Isle of Wight Road Runners was eighth (1:21:40) with Adam Tuck of hosts Ryde Harriers ninth (1:21:56) and Sean Williams of Isle of Wight Road Runners 12th (1:24:59).

Sharp is the former U23 World Triathlon Champion and moved to the Island in 2016 having previously competed professionally in Olympic distance triathlon on the Great Britain squad for a number of years. He is now a full time pro elite athlete and competes in all long distance running and triathlon events.

Mo Farah with Matt Sharp In 2017 he was the second fastest Brit at the Berlin Marathon and this year took third place on the podium alongside Sir Mo Farah, who took first at the London Vitality 10k. Sharp is also the 2018 Hampshire Cross Country Champion and last month competed in the European FitDays MGEN Pro Triathlon in France.

The first woman home in the Half IW Marathon was Charlie Metcalfe from Ryde Harriers, in a very creditable time of 1:30:53.

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