Isle of Wight Observer Issue 71

10th January 2020

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PRESSURE! Legal threat to school governors over planned closure at Yarmouth

Claims that Yarmouth Carnival may be lost if school closes

Yarmouth Primary School governors are coming under further intense pressure from the local community to re-think their support for the closure of the school, and the relocation of its young pupils to a re-built site in Freshwater.

The governing body initially opposed the plan, but then made a surprise U-turn during last summer’s school holidays. That prompted

one governor, and former deputy head, Mark Webber, to resign.

Now there is the threat of legal action by campaigners fighting to save the school. A letter has been sent to chair of governors Carla Bradshaw by solicitors acting on behalf of Keep Yarmouth School in Yarmouth campaigners, calling on the governing body to abandon the plans or face a judicial review.

The campaigners’ legal letter stated: “Proper consultation was particularly important given that the Council had already, unlawfully and unfairly, purported to exercise a power to affect the proposed transfer and those affected were distrustful of the council. The consultation

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Crossword Answers - P.29 Down: 1. Best Man, 2. Wheat, 3. Toronto, 4. Hockey, 5. Cabin, 6. Chateau, 7. Enemy, 13. Goodbye, 15. Brigand, 16. Trisect, 17.Wonder, 18. Strip, 19. Dukes, 21. Alpha Across: 1. Bewitch, 5. Cycle, 8. Swear, 9. Cabbage, 10. Matinee, 11. Needy, 12. No Good, 14. Abduct, 18. Sword, 20. Origami, 22. Rebuked, 23. Ample, 24. Piers, 25. Radiant

Find Bob, our friendly squirrel!

Find Bob somewhere in this week’s paper and one lucky winner will win a pair of tickets to a film at Commodore Cinema, Ryde.

Tell us which page number Bob appears on (not including this one). You can email the page number and your name to spotbob@iwobserver. co.uk or text 07749591550. The deadline is 5pm on Thursday. In our last issue he was on page 23.

On Dec 13, the winner of the voucher was Jemma Willis and on Dec 20, the winner of the ‘Dance to the Music’ tour tickets was Verity Richards.

10th January 2020

Upheaval over Yarmouth School now being carried out cannot satisfy the standard and fundamental public law requirement.”

Ms Bradshaw said it would be inappropriate to comment on behalf of the governors while the decision was pending.

The IW Council recently released its latest report on plans to reduce the number of surplus school places in the West Wight, and the report that went before cabinet last night recommended the closure of All Saints CE Primary School in Freshwater, providing the Yarmouth governors support moving their school to the Freshwater site.

Steve Cowley, the Mayor of Yarmouth was planning to make another plea to the Isle of Wight Council cabinet last night to reconsider, and Kevin Shaw, former chair of the Yarmouth School governors, added his weight to halting the relocation by claiming it would rip the heart out of the local community.

He also questioned whether there are even funds available to re-build on the site of All Saints’ School in Freshwater.

Mr. Cowley was hoping to convince Cabinet members to re-think their plan by pointing out that the Keep Yarmouth School in Yarmouth campaign is ‘a determined and well-funded group and our legal team know that neither you nor the governors have followed all the correct legal procedures’.

He continued: “I am therefore offering an olive branch. Will you meet with us to discuss the way forward that will fulfil both of our ambitions in providing the best education for the children of the West Wight whilst not damaging Yarmouth’s community?

“We are a large community as many people in Freshwater and Shalfleet parishes identify with it. There are over 30 businesses in the town who oppose closing Yarmouth school. Tapnell Farm Park, one of the Island’s major tourist attractions is in the Thorley ward of Yarmouth Town Council, and has supported our campaign.”

Kevin Shaw was the Chair of Governors at Yarmouth School who led the fight with the IW Council in 2008-10 to prevent its closure in the restructuring of Island schools into a two-tier system, not least by working to establish its successful federation with Shalfleet.

A former teacher who has worked in education throughout his career, he said: “The idea is to pack all the children from All Saints’ into Yarmouth School

Yarmouth School pancake race

and temporarily overload it for perhaps two years until a new school on the current All Saints’ site in Freshwater is built with money which has never been validated. No one appears to have ever seen a single piece of written evidence that the money is there, or even promised. Whenever there have been public meetings, and in all presentations, there is talk about an earmarked fund, but no one can tell us how much it is, when it is going to happen, or if indeed, it will. To me it beggars belief that either the IW Council/Cabinet or the Governors of Yarmouth & Shalfleet, are following this complex and ambitious plan based on something that has not yet been verified by anybody. I think this whole scheme appallingly disruptive, educationally ill-conceived and riddled with a lack of logic.

“It is awful for the parents of Yarmouth, as it is for those of All Saints, who do not know with any certainty what will happen to their children.

Initially, last summer the school Governors took their time to consider the proposal carefully, but, having done so, concluded it was not feasible, and rejected it with extensive wellreasoned logic. With their continued opposition, the whole extraordinary idea would have collapsed and more sensible alternatives sought.

“Unfortunately, they were clearly put under undue pressure by County Hall and suddenly announced a complete volte-face, fearful of the alternatives.

Had I still been involved, I would have stood my ground against it, and I think we would have won the case for common sense.

“Beyond all this, something that seems to have been ignored by everyone is that this will be a terrible loss to what is one of the tightest, most active communities you could find anywhere.

The children are the key ingredient and heavily involved in so many events in the local community every year: Pancake Races in the Square, Easter Duck races on the river, Carnival Week, torchlight procession and Fireworks, Carols in the Square. It would be a tragedy for both the community and the children to lose all that by moving them to Freshwater.”

Councillor Paul Brading, cabinet member responsible for education said: “I do not know what decision the governors will make on Monday, but the Council responded positively to their request for support to move Yarmouth School to the Freshwater site if that was the outcome of their consultation. I would find it very disappointing if people are attempting to tie up educational progress in any form of legal challenge.”

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News in brief Head of school resigns

Peace restored in the Cabinet!

Goodbye to yellow-box speed cameras - but still beware...!

BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill The Island’s yellow-box speed cameras are to finally be removed, years after they were switched off. Three of the cameras, one in Wootton High Street and two in Shanklin, on Sandown Road and Victoria Avenue, were being removed by Island Roads this week. The cameras at Newport Road, Lake, Horsebridge Hill, Newport, and St John’s Road, Ryde, will be removed in due course. Although they have been switched off for several years they remained in place as a deterrent to speeding motorists.

The police have been consulted and said the ageing cameras were no longer necessary.

An Isle of Wight police spokesman said the force used various prevention methods and deterrents to combat speeding, including vans equipped with mobile speed cameras, and roads policing officers, which meant the yellow-box cameras were no longer necessary.

He said: “We also have dedicated campaigns, such as Operation Holly throughout December, which target speeding

drivers and driving while impaired. The fixed cameras have been inspected and are at the end of their serviceable life. As such, it has been agreed with our partners at Isle of Wight Council and Island Roads these should now be removed.

“Driving while impaired or even just a few miles an hour over the speed limit can have catastrophic consequences for road users and their families. Simply put, do not put yourself and other road users in danger. We would urge everyone to drive sensibly and pay full attention to the road ahead.”

An Isle of Wight Council spokesman said: “The speed cameras have not been functional and active for a number of years at these fixed locations, as the police have instead favoured the use of mobile cameras deployed in vans. Based on a recent inspection, the housing units have reached the end of their serviceable life and the condition of the casings is such that they now require replacement.”

A former police officer who worked at Scotland Yard for 18 years has taken on the community safety portfolio in the Isle of Wight Council’s Cabinet.

Council leader Dave Stewart confirmed that Gary Peace, councillor for Ventnor West, will return to his former cabinet role after a break due to personal circumstances in 2018. The community safety portfolio now incorporates digital transformation to reflect the changing needs of the Island.

Councillor Peace, who was elected to the Council in 2017, said: “Digital is an area in which I have a great deal of expert knowledge, specifically in relation to cyber/information security and digital forensics.

“For the last eight years of my police service, I investigated ‘misuse’ of the Metropolitan Police corporate network and any information leakage from it.

I also sat at board level for information and technical security as the Professional Standards and AntiCorruption representative.”

After leaving the force, Councillor Peace managed the computer forensics and internet investigation laboratories for the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) and, following its merger with the Competition Commission, led on the creation of the Digital Investigations and Intelligence Laboratories for the new regulator, the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).

The father-of-two has run his own cyber and information security consultancy, specialising in insider threat, counter-corporate espionage and cyber security, since 2013. He is also a founding governor and the current vice-chair of the governing body at the Island Free School in Ventnor.

Welcoming Councillor Peace to his role, Councillor Stewart, himself a former senior detective with Hampshire Constabulary, said: “He brings a great deal of experience to the role, particularly in relation to digital technology, and I look forward to working with him.”

Nora Ward, the head of school at Christ the King College will be leaving at the end of the summer term. She is relocating to the mainland for personal reasons. The school paid tribute to a ‘significant improvement in standards’ under her leadership.

Dead dolphins found The carcasses of five dead dolphins were found washed up on Island beaches before and after Christmas.

The unhappy discoveries have been reported to the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP).

Free dog walk with National Trust There is a free guided dog walk on Sunday (Jan 12) to mark the 125th anniversary of the founding of the National Trust.

Meet at the Dakota monument car park (near the old Ventnor Radar Station) for a 10.30am start.

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‘The Greatest Ever Party’ is beginning to take shape!

Organisers of the fun-filled retro festival, Jack Up The Summer which returns this year in its usual slot on the second weekend in August, have advised revellers to stand by for the ultimate feel-good experience.

Friday will be included in the price of the weekend tickets so 80s aficionados can enjoy an evening of uplifting feel-good music featuring three acts, the flamboyant Doctor & The Medics, the energetic Jive Bunny and the pop world’s equivalent of the naughty seaside postcard, Black Lace. ‘The Greatest Ever Party’ at North Fairlee Farm in Newport on August 7 to 9, will also feature the world record attempt at the longest ever conga line!

Doctor & The Medics are best known for their 1986 No 1 ‘Spirit in the Sky,’ which sold over 24 million copies worldwide.

The band’s frontman, Clive Jackson said; “Ever since the dawn of festival culture in the UK I have embraced it on so many

levels. Performing on a stage in the British summertime to audiences sharing your music and experience takes some beating.

I also believe that few things bring people and communities together more than the festival experience and none more so than Jack Up The Summer which we are lucky to have been involved in since its first year.

Over those first few years that we played we got to know many people both back stage and from the audience and we really got to feel the Island’s community spirit!”

Previously confirmed artists for the weekend include M People’s Heather Small, Heaven 17, Big Country, Aswad, From The Jam and The Strangler’s front man Hugh Cornwell with many more announcements still to come.

It has also been announced that the festival will be raising funds this year for Beaulieu Respite the charity for Beaulieu House which provides support and respite care for

young people with severe and challenging disabilities.

Tony Wake, Chairman of the charity said; “We are absolutely over the moon to be chosen as Jack Up’s charity of the year. Our band of volunteers can’t wait to dress up in their costumes to sell our fluffy bees and other merchandise. We’re also going to have some silly fun games going on throughout the festival weekend.”

Mark King, Patron of Beaulieu Respite commented; “How wonderful that Jack Up Events have chosen Beaulieu Respite as their nominated charity for 2020! An amazing Island festival benefitting an amazing Island charity and great news to start the New Year.

Thank you all from Beaulieu Respite.”

Early Bird tickets at £66 including booking fee are now on sale online at jackupthesummer.co.uk. Children aged under 12 are free, and youngsters up to the age of 17 pay half the price of an adult ticket.

Housing needs survey launch Have your say on the Island’s future housing needs by taking part in an online survey launched by the Isle of Wight Council. The survey gives residents the chance to share their views on the housing needs of their area to help understand what homes the Island might need in 15 years’ time. The results will form part of an evidence-based case to demonstrate the real housing

needs of the Island and challenge Government-driven housing targets.

Councillor Barry Abraham, Cabinet member for planning and housing, said: “We would like to reach a position where we have an up-to-date and accurate picture of the housing needs in each of our towns and parishes over the next 15 years.

“It’s important that, when planning for the future of what our Island could be as we seek to further bolster our economy and provide opportunities for our young people, that they have the right type of homes to live in. We are committed to the fact, as per our corporate plan, that people have a place to call home and can live with independence.”

The six-week study asks for information about current households and looks at future housing needs. Council leader Dave Stewart added: “Different people, families and individuals will have very differing needs, whether it’s starter homes, flats or supported living and extra care opportunities.

“If we don’t know what this is, then we cannot start to

plan effectively. We know the population is growing and ageing, and that currently we don’t have the right mix or number of homes available.”

Households are encouraged to complete the online survey as fully as possible at surveymonkey. co.uk/r/IWHousingNeeds2020

10th January 2020

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Wear it Bright for Cancer Trust Wessex Cancer Trust is calling on Islanders to spread some New Year cheer and Wear It Bright on Friday, January 24 to raise money for the charity’s crisis appeal.

The charity is hoping as many people as possible, from school children to office workers, will don their sunniest tops, happiest shoes and most vibrant accessories to raise money for the cause.

The charity has also come up with some other bright ideas to help you raise money on the day, such as baking and selling brightly coloured cakes, guessing the number of coloured sweets in a jar or holding a joke telling competition. You can download fundraising ideas, posters, medals and colouring-in sheets from

www.wessexcancer.org.uk/wearit-bright-resources.

Cait Allen, Wessex Cancer Trust’s CEO, said: “With the festive season over and no sign of spring in sight, many of us feel a bit glum in January. We want January 24 to be the happiest day of the year! Wear it Bright gives you the opportunity to create colourful communities and spread some new year cheer, as well as raising money to save local services for anyone living with cancer.”

Wessex Cancer Trust has launched a crisis appeal to raise £600,000 by the end of January or it could be forced to close. The charity, which has been supporting local families for almost 40 years, has seen a 30% increase in demand

for its services this year. It has also been hit by a 65% reduction in people leaving a gift in their will and the decline in the high street which has seen its shop sales fall by 15 per cent.

The charity supports around 11,000 people every year through its four cancer Support Centres which provide a drop-in service, professional counselling, complementary therapies, activities, support groups and courses. It also runs outreach services, popular Sing for Life choirs and transport on its Daisy Buses to help patients get to their hospital appointments.

So far, the appeal has raised more than £140,000.

Sign up at www.wessexcancer. org.uk/Event/wear-it-bright-2020

Palm oil found on Ryde beaches

Local companies restore beauty spot by removing fly-tip tyres Three companies came to the rescue when the National Trust found 150 tyres flytipped in the Jubilee car park at local beauty spot Mottistone Down. Mobile tyre service Tyres of Wight, D H Price Motors of Lake and National Tyres and Autocare in Shide came to the rescue within 24 hours of the news being posted on Facebook, removing and disposing the tyres responsibly.

If the National Trust had disposed of the

tyres it would have cost around £600.

Comments on the Facebook post both praised the companies involved in the clean up and condemned the flytipper. One person describing both the tyres and the person who dumped them as ‘a blot on the landscape’.

Anybody with any information on who may have fly-tipped the tyres should call the National Trust on (01983) 741020.

Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team Dog owners have taken to social media to warn others of palm oil present on beaches in and around Ryde this week. Bembridge Coastguard Rescue Team were called out on Tuesday (Jan 7) to investigate the reports.

Palm oil can is attractive to dogs and wildlife but can cause sickness and diahorrea and in extreme cases pancreatitis and can even lead to death. In its natural

solid state it is a white, waxy substance, but it is often contaminated with diesel or other harmful products as it is used to clean out ship's tanks.

It will become illegal to dump palm oil and other food oils into the sea from July 1, 2021, but there are calls for the deadline to be brought forward for British waters as our ports already have the capacity to deal with the waste.

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News in brief Island appears on holiday hotlist The Isle of Wight featured in a list of alternative holiday destinations for 2020 compiled by the Guardian newspaper.

Other recommended destinations in the ‘hot list’ included Slovenia, Rotterdam and Finland.

Freshwater Bay parking changes New parking restrictions are to be introduced in Freshwater Bay after 96 letters of complaint were received about the original proposals from the Isle of Wight Council.

The new proposals were developed with Freshwater Parish Council and Island Roads.

Monsoon to close at end of month Popular Newport clothing shop Monsoon and Accessorize are set to close later this month with the loss of 13 jobs after negotiations to decrease the rent failed.

Their last day of trading will be January 23.

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Help for mums-to-be in giving up smoking The Friends of St Mary’s Hospital are helping to encourage smoke-free pregnancies on the Island by spending £3,653 on 20 micro smokerlyzers. The devices measure the levels of carbon monoxide in the breath and provide a

visual aid to motivate smokers to quit to improve the quality of their life and reduce risk to their unborn children.

Elinor Jenkins of Reducing Smoking Pregnancy Support, said around 15 percent of pregnant women smoke,

adding: “It is a significant health risk for these women and unborn babies.

It increases the risk of stillbirth, premature labour, and miscarriage, and slows foetal growth."

Ventnor Botanic Gardens bloom The flower count at Ventnor Botanic Gardens on New Year's Day was 217, the highest since the record count of 287 different plants in bloom counted in 2016.

The relatively high number this year was attributed to a generally warm December, with autumn flowering species still in bloom, together with early spring flowers coming in.

Although this provides a tremendous visual display in the winter months, there are concerns that it is also an indicator of climate change.

Salvias are still blooming in the unique Niton Undercliff microclimate and the acacia collection is starting to open early along with a large number of camellias. The beautiful magnolias are also expected to start their showy display very soon, last year they started opening on January 6.

The drought last summer may promote flowering of xerophytes (plants that survive with little liquid water), so staff will be watching the Arid Garden and National Puya collection carefully. They also expect there may be more cones forming on the cycads, a primitive type of tree that produced both male and female cones in Ventnor Botanic Garden last year for the first time on record.

Sail training places available on Prolific Young people on the Island are being invited to apply for one of 10 places to take part in a fully sponsored, four-night voyage on board the sail training vessel Prolific later this year. Two courses will be available, the first starting on April 15, the second on October 23, with five places available on each date.

The sail training courses would normally cost around £400 per head, but thanks to fundraising by the Ocean

Youth Trust South’s Island Support Group and donations from other supporters there will be no cost to those selected to take part. The offer follows from a highly successful pilot scheme in October 2019.

The Chairman of the Island Support Group, Brian Mead, said: “This is a marvellous opportunity for 10 Isle of Wight young people to participate in an exciting and potentially life changing

voyage and we are grateful to our generous supporters for making the funds available to fully sponsor them.”

Applicants must be aged between 12 and 18 and must live on the Island. More information is available at oytsouth. org/iow_2020.asp. Applications close on January 31 and successful applicants will be notified by the end of February.

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Spinlock hope to move to former police station BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill A former police station could turn into offices, after six years of being empty.

The past home of Cowes Police is set to become offices for Spinlock, a marine design and manufacturing company, should a planning application be successful.

On the corner of Birmingham Road and Mill Hill Road in Cowes, across the road from Spinlock’s current home, the police station could undergo a renovation to adapt the existing building into a new business headquarters with a design studio and office units. Smaller changes will be made to its external appearance,

with small outbuildings demolished and an extension on the roof, turning the space into a conference room with views towards the Solent.

The move to the police station will allow Spinlock, which bought the building in May last year, to expand its operations but also rent separate office spaces to other businesses if it wishes to do so. In an applicant statement, Spinlock embraced the opportunity to expand due to the limitations at its old office. It said: “Maximising the space available through a major investment in the old police station not only preserves

a historic building within Cowes but repurposes it to provide a Spinlock Head Office for the long term, enabling us to create and secure many local jobs, both internal staff and with supply companies.”

Comments already on the application are supportive of the change, saying it is good for the building to be used again and for the company to remain locally in Cowes as well as boosting the marine industry on the Island.

Further comments can be made on the proposals until January 31.

Wear a Hat Day in March The Wight Brainy Bunch are encouraging Islanders to get involved in their fifth Wear a Hat Day this March.

March is Brain Tumour Awareness Month in the UK, so what better time to take part in a fun event to recognise this and raise awareness and funds for this devastating disease.

The Island-based charity is asking for everyone to become involved, either in their workplace, school, church or community group, on whichever date

in March suits them, by wearing a hat for the day in exchange for a donation!

Kathryn, from the Wight Brainy Bunch, said: “Wear a Hat Day has been a longstanding event in March for the national charity 'Brain Tumour Research' and we adopted it several years ago to raise money for families here on the Island.”

The Wight Brainy Bunch was founded

by Ryde Firefighter Mark Grimes in 2015 following his own diagnosis of a

brain tumour. The charity now provide emotional support and financial assistance to dozens of Isle of Wight families facing the same diagnosis, by funding a variety of services, including travel costs to Southampton for treatment, purchasing of specialist equipment, counselling services, physiotherapy to aid mobility, cognitive rehabilitation therapy and memorymaking breaks for those with a terminal diagnosis.

Beware of Burger King’s new Rebel!

National reports about Burger King’s new plant based Rebel Whopper burger say it is unsuitable for vegetarians

and vegans as it is cooked on the same grill as meat based products in order to get the ‘flame-grilled taste’. The

vegetarian bean burger and the children’s vegetarian option are cooked separately.

The Island’s first Burger King

opened at Coppins Bridge Leisure Park last month.

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10th January 2020

Double boost for Breast Care Unit

Travel firm team back together on High Street A team that worked at travel firm Thomas Cook, which collapsed in September, are back together and have opened a new branch of Barrhead Travel on Newport’s High Street.

Headed by manager Emma Ram and assistant manager Emily Watson, the team of five, four of whom worked for Thomas Cook, have almost 110 years' experience in the travel business

between them and have recently had the benefit of immersive training at Barrhead Travel’s dedicated Training Academy in Glasgow.

The branch is being equipped with state-of-the-art technology and has been branded with Barrhead Travel’s distinctive image. Manager Emma said: “I am so delighted to be back on the high street with my team on a new

and exciting journey. The Barrhead Travel offering will really enhance our customer experience, allowing us to tailor-make exactly the right trips for our clients. The community on the Isle of Wight have been so supportive of our team and we know that they will love the Barrhead Travel brand.”

The Breast Screening Unit, based in the grounds of St Mary's Hospital, has benefitted twice-over from the Friends of St Mary’s, having received a care tray trolley and a six-panel display board, altogether costing £750.

Jill Shead, the unit’s Clinical Lead, explained that the trolley helped to provide greater flexibility within the workplace, when other trolleys are in use, saying: “It enables all items required to be kept in one location, ready for use.”

Regarding the six-panel display, she referred to the worrying drop in the number of women attending breast screening, adding: “We want to do some health promotion events, to raise awareness of the importance of screening in detecting early cancers.

The particular board was chosen as it is light-weight, fits in a car, and can be set up by one person.”Pic Jill Shead (right), with the trolley and awareness notice board, joined by Clerical Officer, Caroline Mills.

Buses were buzzing over festive period

Coastguard gets call out after boat drifts onto Ventnor beach Ventnor Coastguard attended a boat which had drifted on to Ventnor Beach. They found the boat appeared to have slipped its moorings from elsewhere and there was nobody in difficulty. The Coastguard praised the member of the

public who raised the alarm for doing the right thing and calling 999 to trigger the investigation. You should always call the Coastguard on 999 if you have concerns that there might be somebody in difficulty on the water.

Teenagers face p.13 charge of arson

Photo credit: Island Buses - Caption : Richard Tyldsley More people than ever took to the bus on Christmas Day on the Isle of Wight, according to Southern Vectis. A recordbreaking number of passengers, an increase of 16 per cent on last year, travelled with the bus operator, which is one of only a few in the UK to offer services on December 25.

“We’re thrilled with the response we’ve had, with thousands journeying with us here,” said Southern Vectis General Manager, Richard Tyldsley. “In the UK, it is still unusual for buses to run on Christmas Day, and we are confident that we run the nation’s most extensive network. It’s wonderful that so many people have made use of sustainable travel.

“I’m delighted by the success we have seen here, and would encourage those who left their cars at home at Christmas to journey with us for the first time, to do so again during the rest of the year. Bus travel is the perfect solution to reducing congestion and improving air quality, and we’re proud to be making services more accessible here.”

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Best year yet for sustainable travel on the Isle of Wight Visit Isle of Wight’s sustainable travel team is celebrating following a year of success in promoting a greener way to get around the Island. The Green Star scheme originally launched in 2016, with the aim of encouraging businesses to look at how they promote sustainable travel on the Isle of Wight, either through using buses, walking, cycling or introducing electric car charging points at their premises.

Nicola Rogers, sustainable travel project manager, said: “It has been very encouraging. 2019 saw the relaunch of the new Green Star scheme with its new structure of bronze silver and gold. We've had more than a hundred businesses across the Island

sign up to the scheme, which is great.

“The vast majority of those are either gold or silver status, so that just shows that people are finding it very valuable and it's an important factor for them to make sure that they are continuing to be eco-friendly and promote sustainable transport.”

Farringford Estate at Freshwater recently achieved the gold level in the Green Star scheme. Sophie Adkins, marketing manager at Farringford Estate, said: “When we were approached about the Green Star award and I read through the criteria we had actually achieved nearly all of the criteria and were working towards it. You’ll be surprised at how much you’re doing already!”

The Visit Isle of Wight key card scheme is run in conjunction with Green Star accommodation providers and local bus company Southern Vectis, encouraging visitors to choose public transport instead of using a car, cutting carbon emissions on the Island.

Constant promotion of the key card scheme over the spring and summer months saw the team pick up a silver award in the UK Bus Awards in November in the marketing initiative of the year category. More businesses are being encouraged to take part in the scheme in 2020. Contact Visit Isle of Wight on info@visitwight.org.

Former teacher banned from the classroom BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill A former Isle of Wight teacher has been forbidden to teach again after he assaulted a pupil, leading to 'misconduct of a serious nature'.

Graeme Bell, 47, a science teacher at Cowes Enterprise College since 2006, has been prohibited from teaching indefinitely by the Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA), and the decision cannot be reviewed until December 2023 at the earliest.

Following the decision last month, a professional conduct panel decided it was necessary to impose the order after Bell admitted unacceptable professional conduct after an incident with a pupil.

In July 2018, Bell attended a residential trip to Corf Camp, Shalfleet, with Year 7 pupils from

Cowes Enterprise College where he was involved in a physical altercation with two pupils.

After the incident, Bell lost his job and was charged at the Isle of Wight Magistrates’ Court for assault by beating, and given a 12-month community order to undertake 100 hours of work. He was also ordered to pay £485 in court costs and a victim surcharge.

The court heard a fellow teacher describe Bell as going ‘crazily mental’ when he grabbed a student by the shoulders, forcibly pulling them a distance before pushing them to the ground.

A report published by the TRA panel said it was satisfied Bell had breached the Teachers’ Standards, falling

‘significantly short of the standards expected’, not upholding public trust in the profession, not observing proper appropriate boundaries and not treating pupils with dignity.

The panel accepted Bell’s actions were not pre-meditated but involved a ‘loss of emotional control at the point which the offence was committed’.

A witness statement read to the panel stated Bell had ‘learned a lesson from the incident’ and he expressed regret for his actions.

The prohibition order now prevents Bell from teaching in any school, sixth form college or children’s home in the country indefinitely but the TRA said it would ‘clearly deprive the public of his contribution to the profession for the period that it is in force’.

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10th January 2020

Place your Births, Marriges and deaths notices online today -iwobserver.co.uk

Charity event to fund fun for youngsters The charity Star Wars Premiere evening at Cineworld, hosted by Wightfibre, raised over £7,000 for UKSA with 288 guests attending the glittering event. The money will be used to provide 240 places for Year 6 children from Island schools to take part in the Test the Water programme, a half-day of free watersports and an introduction to sailing.

Star Wars IX – The Rise of Skywalker was the third Star Wars charity event that Wightfibre have hosted in support of UKSA, with almost £15,000 raised in total.

The Isle of Wight Observer's competition winner Simon Bowden, said: "I just wanted to say a massive thank you for the VIP tickets for Star Wars IX The rise of Skywalker. The

whole experience was excellent, the VIP Red Carpet walk and the props were awesome and the hospitality was first class.

"The film was simply amazing, in true Star Wars fashion. I cannot praise Wightfibre and the team enough for the unforgettable evening. The whole experience made watching the film as epic as it deserves to be. Many thanks to the Observer for the wonderful opportunity and the fantastic prize."

On a sad note the event was dedicated to Simon Poole, Wightfibre’s 47-yearold Chief Operating Officer who was tragically killed on December 16 when he was hit by a car outside Red Funnel’s terminal in Southampton. A minute’s silence was held before the screening.

Bembridge Parish Council facing more problems An investigation by an Isle of Wight Council officer has found that a Bembridge Parish Councillor was ‘more likely than not’ guilty of swearing at fellow councillor Alasdair Steane during a public meeting and was therefore guilty of breaching the Councillors’ Code of Conduct.

The incident happened in September 2018 and was reported

to the Isle of Wight Council by Bembridge resident Madeline Reader, who was present at the time. Mr Gard said in a report that others had also raised concerns about bullying and the atmosphere at parish council meetings. He found that the allegation made about Cllr. Weaver’s language was ‘not an isolated incident’.

Cllr. Weaver denied the allegations

and claimed he had called Cllr.

Steane, a member of the Open Bembridge group, ‘a cult’, not the offensive swear word he had been accused of using. Councillor Weaver now has the right to appeal the findings. If the conclusions of the investigation are upheld the matter will be referred to the Council’s appeals committee to determine what, if any action should be taken

against Cllr. Weaver.

Over the last two years Bembridge Parish Council has been riven with allegations of bad behaviour by councillors, improper decision making and the waste of public money.

Much of the rancour stems from the decision to sell 5/7 High Street, the home of Captain Stan’s Fish Shop after 10 of the 12 councillors elected in 2017

had stood as ‘Open Bembridge’ councillors who wished to retain the premises as an asset for the village. The building was finally sold by auction in September last year. An application for the building to be listed as an asset of community value was rejected by the Isle of Wight Council in November last year.

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Early bird Pride tickets for Ryde celebrations Isle of Wight Pride have released early bird tickets for this year’s event which will be held in Ryde on Saturday, July 18. The offer will only be available until the end of January or until the allocation of tickets has been achieved.

Standard tickets at the special price of £10 give you access to the Party on the Beach and the £25 VIP tickets give access to the VIP area with its own bar and seating to make the experience even more special.

The event will celebrate advances that have been made for LGBTQ+ equality and diversity in the UK and raise awareness of those in other countries who are still experiencing prejudice and censor because of their sexuality.

The day will start with a colourful Parade through the streets of Ryde followed by lots of activities in the town itself and the Pride Party on the beach. You can book the early

bird tickets at outsavvy.com/event/3944/ isle-of-wight-pride-tickets

More houses could see Gunville double in size BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill Gunville could almost double in size if a new planning application for more houses is approved.

Following three previous applications, comprising 221 homes, a new application seeking outline planning permission for 115 houses has been lodged with the Isle of Wight Council.

The latest application, submitted by developer Gallant Green, would see workshops demolished on a 3.15 hectare site, opposite

Carisbrooke and Gunville Methodist Church and next to the Friends of the Animals charity shop, to make way for 75 market and 40 social houses.

The largely greenfield site stretches to the eastern boundary of Carisbrooke College.

It has been designated for development in the Island Plan, as a key regeneration area in the Medina Valley.

Previous plans for 149 homes on the other side of Gunville, from

Alvington Manor View to Ash Lane, were submitted to the council in November

by DN Associates. Two other developments on the same site, comprising 72 houses, were approved earlier this year.

If planning permission is granted for all the applications, it means more than 330 homes would be built in the next few years.

Comments can be made on the latest application until January 20.

Loving home needed urgently for Holly Friends of the Animals are looking urgently for a home, either foster or permanent, for Holly, a medium sized, spayed bitch. Her current fosterers can sadly no longer care for her due to personal circumstances and the charity needs to find her a new home as quickly as possible.

Holly will need to be an only dog as she did not have any interaction with them when she was young. She is nervous of fireworks and the vets, but is very loving and loves cuddles, being brushed, biscuits and being made a fuss of. She is 12 years old and sleeps a lot but enjoys a walk on her anti-pull harness and will not wander far from you; she is good at coming when she is called.

If you can provide love and a warm fireplace for

this lovely old lady Friends of the Animals will provide everything else. Call Lacie

on (01983) 522411 if you can help.

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10th January 2020

First winner in Round the Island Race announced!

Entries for the world-famous Round the Island Race are now open with the first competitor to sign up winning a bottle of Mermaid Gin for his efforts. Martin Thomas completed the on-line entry form for his three-year-old Bridgedeck Multihull INXSA in just 179 seconds after entries opened at midnight on January 3.

Organised by Cowes Island Sailing Club, the Round the Island Race (RIR) is one of the UK’s largest participation sporting events and is expected to attract over 1,500 boats and thousands of sailors. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, May 30, a few weeks earlier than usual to accommodate tidal conditions. With starts beginning shortly after sunrise, competitors are expected to enjoy a spectacular first leg

down to the Needles, together with a welcome early finish back in Cowes.

Dave Atkinson, Round the Island Event Director, said: “The Island Sailing Club is proud to host this iconic event.

It’s a fantastic privilege to welcome professional sailors, Olympians, club racers, families and one-off racers from all over the world to compete on a single race-course.

“We want our ambition of a ‘Race For All’ to build even more momentum this year. Our team are working on some thrilling new ways for all competitors and spectators to enjoy the run-up and event day - watch this space!

"Following the success last year of The Race Village on The Parade in Cowes, we’re bringing it back by popular demand. There’s going to be a

full entertainment schedule and lots of food and drinks options to choose from.

With an expected early finish this year, it’s definitely going to be the place to enjoy a well-earned post-race beer with friends and family.”

The Round the Island race has a strong tradition of fundraising for charities with over £500,000 raised since 2006. As in previous years the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust is the official race charity.

Early Bird entries are available online until February 1 and competitors are encouraged to get their entries in early to take advantage of the discounts on offer. For more details and how to register to take part in Round the Island Race 2020, visit roundtheislandrace. org.uk.

Happy couple celebrate 67 years of wedded bliss An Isle of Wight couple have celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary. Derek and June Meeson are both residents at The Elms Nursing Home in Bembridge and staff there treated them to a special romantic dinner for two for their anniversary.

The couple first met at a fairground when Derek was 20 and serving in the Royal Air Force.

They got married in the pouring rain at St George’s Square, Birmingham with Derek wearing his RAF uniform.

They then went on honeymoon to London where they stayed with June’s cousin.

After their marriage, they lived in a one-bedroom flat in Birmingham, but saved up and moved into their own house in the Perrywood area of the city.

Derek then came out of the RAF and worked for BSA Motorcycles in Birmingham, while June was a homemaker, looking after their only child, Gail. They now have a granddaughter called Lucy.

Derek has been at The Elms since last year and has now been joined there by June. He says his proudest moment was when they first moved into their own house, but his biggest achievement of course is his wonderful marriage, his

happiest memories being the time he delighted we could make a special day has spent with June. for this very special couple. They are Lesley Wise, manager ofwaiting The Elms both very Skye for her owner to special in our hearts. We said: “All the staff at the how Elmsheare wish them many more happy years decide will vote.

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Teenagers face charge of arson

Ambulances receive life-saving equipment Life-saving portable equipment to resuscitate patients following a cardiac arrest has been provided by the Friends for the Island’s Ambulance Service.

A £35,000 donation allowed the service to acquire four such items, each to be carried by an ambulance.

“They’re worth their weight in gold,” said Operations Station Manager, Matthew Colson.

“We already had one of the units, and this has so proved its worth that we turned to the Friends in the hope of getting more.”

Clinicians can suffer fatigue when carrying out the

procedure manually for any length of time. To overcome this, mechanical means have been developed across the world. Although initially the equipment was confined to hospitals because of its bulk, advances in battery technology and design have made it possible in more recent years for it to be carried by ambulances.

Matthew added: “Equipping Isle of Wight ambulances with these devices will considerably improve the chances of a successful resuscitation, resulting in patient recovery from an otherwise fatal condition.”

Freshwater Fire Station Two teenagers charged with starting a fire that destroyed three barns at Gatehouse Road Farm in Ryde on August 1 last year will appear in the Crown Court on January 27.

The barns contained stock worth £156,000 and belonged to Kenneth Beak, the farm's owner.

Alex Raftery, aged 18 from Bournemouth, was charged

with arson together a 16-year-old from the Island who cannot be named for legal reasons.

Moody Blues piano finds new life at Mountbatten

Man arrested after robbery Police have arrested a homeless man in relation to a robbery at the Tesco Express store in Lake on December 23 when a man carrying a screwdriver demanded money from the till.

A spokesman for Isle of Wight police said: "A 28-year-old man, of no fixed abode, was arrested

on suspicion of robbery.

He has also been arrested on suspicion of a second count of robbery, and one count each of attempted robbery, burglary, attempted burglary and attempted theft of a motor vehicle.

He has been released under investigation."

New member of BCM team

BCM, the Island’s Rural Property Specialists, have announced the appointment of Charlotte Howlett to their growing team. Charlotte is well known across the Island as an experienced Planning Consultant through her previous role with Town and Country Planning Consultants, Hepburns. It is a company that BCM have a close association with, making this move a natural one for Charlotte.

This latest appointment follows the company’s move to its new Red Barn offices at Cheeks Farm, Merstone, recently celebrated with a special event attended by Charlotte and over 70 guests.

David Long, Partner at BCM, said: “I am really pleased to welcome Charlotte to the team, a move which adds even more depth to our Planning and Development Team and further enhances our reputation as the Island’s leading rural property specialist. Charlotte further enhances our professional service skills and our commitment to providing the best advice to rural property owners, landowners and property developers.”

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May Day moved If you're planning ahead to activities in May it would be wise to check that your calender and diary have the correct bank holiday dates. In June last year the Government announced that the early May bank holiday, which is usually on the first Monday in May, would be moved to Friday, May 8, to enable a three-day commemoration of Victory in Europe (VE) Day. This year May 8 will mark the 75th anniversary of the formal acceptance by the Allies in 1945 of the unconditional surrender of Nazi Germany, heralding the end of World War II. Some diaries in calenders sold this year have not recorded the changed arrangements for the May Day holiday.

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A grand piano that once belonged to The Moody Blues founding member Ray Thomas, who died in January last year, is now bringing enjoyment to Islanders at Mountbatten.

The musician most commonly played the flute and is widely remembered for his solo performance on one of the band’s greatest hits, Nights in White Satin. However, a Yamaha piano given to Ray during his career was gifted to Nordoff Robbins, the UK’s largest music therapy charity, which works with people supported by Mountbatten.

Fraser Simpson, music therapist at Mountbatten, said: “It is amazing to have this gift as a way of bringing more music into the hospice. The day centre patients love coming in to hear the piano; it’s lovely to

have such an amazing instrument to play and make music with them.”

Ray, who played at the Isle of Wight Festival in 1970, died two years ago but he always wanted his instruments to be used to help others.

“We started donating to Nordoff Robbins because of its work in helping people through music,” said his widow, Lee. “Ray’s life was music and he would be so happy his piano is at the hospice. Ray was always helping people, so it’s fantastic.”

Mountbatten provides music therapy sessions every week, including to people with dementia and their families and careers.

For more information visit mountbatten. org.uk/music-therapy

You can now announce births, marriages and deaths in the IW Observer.

Book online at iwobserver.co.uk/ announcements.

Prices start from £7.50 per insertion.

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10th January 2020

Phone boxes face the axe

Inshore Rescue back on water thanks to firm’s generosity

Up to 26 public telephone boxes are set to be removed from locations around the Island.

BT installations not regularly in use are at risk, the Local Access Forum has advised, and you have just a few days left to make a case for any of them to be retained.

Numbers of calls at each one have been monitored over the past year and they range from zero at Fishbourne Lane, Ryde to 188 at Sandown Social Club.

Last date for objections is Wednesday, January 15, to be registered at the Planning Services, Council Offices, Seaclose, Fairlee Road, Newport, or by email to development@ iow.gov.uk

Hunt Forest Group, formally R Hunt Ltd, the Rookley based John Deer supplier of tractors and agricultural machinery, stepped in to get Ryde Inshore Rescue back into service after their launch vehicle’s windscreen was smashed over the New Year.

The volunteers who run the lifeboat posted that they were ‘devastated and angered’ by the ‘mindless act of vandalism’, and asked friends and supporters to get in touch if they could help find the culprits.

Only 24 hours later Ryde Inshore Rescue took to Facebook again with the following message: “Firstly we would like to thank everyone who has offered kind words of support to us, and to André Oz Allard from Islandwide Windscreens and Shaun

Rowlands from National Windscreens for the generous offers to help (you two are gents), but ultimately we would like to thank Charlie and all the team at R.Hunts at Rookley who are the main John Deere tractor suppliers on the Island; they have very kindly offered to cover all costs to repair our tractor. We cannot thank everyone enough.”

Hunt Forest Group not only supplied the windscreen, but also fitted it free of charge ensuring the lifesaving service was able to get back on the water as quickly as possible.

If you have information about the incident, contact Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting crime reference number 44200005054.

Or you can contract Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 11.

New electric vehicle charging points on way BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill Two new electric vehicle charging stations could be installed in the West Wight. A planning application has been submitted by the Southern Co-operative store in Freshwater to install two electric vehicle charging points in its car park.

The Freshwater Co-op store also submitted a planning application to install solar panels at the shop, which was approved.

The two spaces are planned to be closest to the Afton Road entrance, with vegetation removed within the site where necessary to

accommodate the charging points.

The ports, set to be provided by Instavolt, who have no charging points on the Island, will require a contactless payment, where the user will pay for what they use, costing 35p per kWh. Both Instavolt charging points will have rapid chargers, supposedly increasing battery power by up to 80 per cent charge in 30 minutes. Comments can be made about the planning application until January 20.

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Island ‘not looking after wildlife’ claims Islanders are short of 2020 vision when it comes to looking after their wildlife, claim local conservationists. Birdwatchers, incensed by the sight of wildfowl driven off by canoes, kayaks and other watercraft, have been posting on social media.

One wrote on IOW Bird News: “Some of us . . . are sick of seeing the amount of disturbance” adding that water sports are “probably catered for better on the Island than anywhere else in the country” and “it was a shame that just one small oasis for birds couldn't be left alone.”

It also emerged that a yacht with a Chinese junk-style sail had been seen weaving in and out of the creeks at Newtown. A dozen spoonbills, infrequent visitors here, were flushed out and it later scattered a flock of 600 dunlin.

Elsewhere similar pictures emerge. No sanderlings were seen at Ryde during the most recent Wetland Bird Survey carried out by volunteers for the British Trust for Ornithology. Even Eileen Hughes, whose work with the little Arctic sandpiper we reported in November, found just 32 in an isolated group in Ryde.

She said: “In past years I have recorded over 200 there at this time. There were no Brent geese either, as they had been driven off the eel grass by jet skis. This will probably lead to weight loss which means they won't be in good shape for when they take to the air

again."

The news that 30 million walkers used the UK Coastal Path in just six months dismayed Keep Newtown for the Birds (KNB). Over the past two years the group has been working to save the National Trust owned reserve from being swamped by visitors. KNB’s spokesman James Allaway described the figures are 'deeply worrying'. He said: "The Island section of the new National Trail is due to be announced in March and Newtown is the most sensitive part of it."

Hilary McGrady, the Trust’s director general, has welcomed visitor figures, saying they show 'our coastline holds a special place in many of our hearts'.

James said: “So it does, especially among the thousands of wildfowl and waders that overwinter in the Solent area. For them the likelihood of a massive increase in the human footprint was the worst possible Christmas present.

“At this rate Newtown will soon cease to exist as a nature reserve. The Ramblers, who have helped drive the new Coastal Path forward, say it gives the right of access to open coast for the first time allowing people to ‘walk over access land to explore beaches and foreshores, right up to the water's edge’.

Experience all over the world, from the Arctic Circle down to the Great Barrier Reef, has shown that such access stacks up problems for any number of species.”

Grab a bargain in the pub Two Island pubs are holding January Sales on a wide range of drinks, including low alcohol and nonalcoholic ranges.

Bar prices at S. Fowlers & Co. in Union Street, Ryde and The Man in the Moon in St James’ Street, Newport have reduced the price of a

range of drinks from until Thursday, January 16.

Drinks featured in the sale include beer, lager, cider and a range of wines as well as spirits and other popular bottled drinks. The low and alcohol-free drinks include Beck’s Blue, Budweiser Prohibition Brew, Heineken

0.0, Brewdog Nanny State and Adnams Ghost Ship.

Neil Longley, Manager at Fowlers & Co. likened the offer to department store and shop sales and said they were aimed at a wide variety of tastes.

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10th January 2020

Big Top comes to small screen Jay Miller’s Touring Circus, which comes to the Island each July, will be appearing in Midsomer Murders at 8pm on Tuesday (Jan 14). ITV’s popular detective Barnaby has to face up to his fears in order to solve the latest murder case in the village with the highest death count in the UK.

Things have taken a gruesome turn when Ferabbees Circus comes to town bringing with it a chain of sinister clown sightings, threatening notes and deathly dangerous circus acts.

The circus gave a ‘heads up’ to followers on Facebook saying that filming took place 18 months ago and

the episode will feature their ‘beautiful Big Top and awesome Artistes’.

Charlotte and Jodi Miller were the stunt doubles for the aerial acts. The term for a persistent and irrational fear of clowns is Coulrophobia!

Uplifting pebbles at Culver Cliff

Donation hits the target A donation from East Cowes Co-op of over £1,700 will be put to good use by 1st Northwood Scout Group who plan to purchase archery equipment with the donation and put remaining monies towards replacing the trailer they use to transport kit to camp.

Fire in Ryde bedroom

Bembridge RNLI

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Bembridge RNLI took to Facebook to deliver a message from Alan Doe, their Community/ Coastal Safety Officer, after poignant pebbles were discovered at Culver.

He said: “I was walking along the top of Culver Cliff over the New Year and was delighted to find lots of delicately painted pebbles on the fence post each with an upbeat message and a number to phone if you are not feeling great. A big thank you to whoever has done these. An excellent intervention.”

The pebbles were painted and placed by retired mental health nurse Kim Hayter of Brading who has been painting pebbles for a couple of years. She said: “Depression and anxiety have affected me throughout my own life and I know how much painting and focussing on art can have a huge positive impact on deflecting negative thoughts and

emotions.

“I painted around a dozen or more and decided to place them at the top of Culver where unfortunately we have seen so many people take their own lives. If one rock attracts someone’s attention when they are so desperate and have lost all hope in life it just may be enough time to divert their thoughts of wishing to die. I went back to Culver last week with my dogs and was pleased to see that most were all still there.”

In December an inquest found that 42-yearold Joanna Orpin from Ryde committed suicide by jumping from Culver Cliff in February 2018, and the scene has been the site of a number of other suicides. The pebbles found by Mr Doe included one saying: ‘Talk to us anytime you like 116 123’ the number for the Samaritans and ‘Never, Never, Never’.

Fire appliances and paramedics attended a fire in a bedroom in Amherst Place, Ryde on Saturday afternoon (Jan 4) after smoke was spotted coming through a window.

The fire was extinguished and occupants were treated for smoke inhalation at the scene.

Swimming success The IOW Masters Swim Club’s Most Improved Swimmer 2019, Fiona Claxton received her trophy from the 2018 winner, Roz Sheward at The Heights Pools. Fiona said: "Being able to swim in a controlled lane with colleagues of a similar standard has enabled me to improve my swimming. I am proud to receive the award."

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Whale died from being struck by ship - confirmed

Photo: ORCA

A necropsy, an autopsy for animals report, was published this week on a dead whale which was removed by crane from the bow of a cargo ship in Portsmouth.

The sad discovery was made on December 31 during a routine boarding of the Cote D’Ivorian Star, a Liberian vessel carrying tropical fruit from Senegal to Portsmouth. A pilot boat crew spotted the large whale draped across the bulbous bow and the vessel was held off the Isle of Wight for several hours before being allowed to sail into Portsmouth Harbour.

The report by the UK Cetacean Stranding Investigation Programme found that it was a 17.1m juvenile male fin whale in apparently good condition. There was evidence of recent feeding, with no significant disease or parasite infection.

The report concluded that the whale had died due to being hit by the ship, previously it was unknown whether it could have died from other causes before encountering the ship. Fin whales are known to congregate at the Bay of Biscay, which the ship will have passed through on its way to Portsmouth.

James Robbins, who is undertaking research into ship strikes (animals including whales being struck by ships) at the University of Portsmouth said:

“It is a shame that this animal died but this unfortunate incident highlights a global issue which we still have so much to learn about.

“Ship strike is likely largely under-reported as many vessels are too big for crew to feel the impact, and the bow of the vessel is often not visible from the bridge. Information gained from this incident and the examination of the carcass will add to the growing picture of this issue, with the hope that appropriate mitigation measures can be created in areas and times of year that whales are at most risk.”

The project James is working on in partnership with whale and dolphin charity ORCA and Brittany Ferries investigates the behaviour of whales around large ships to help inform crews of the best actions to take to avoid collisions. The research is being carried out in the Bay of Biscay as it is visited by several large whale species and a large number of vessels travel through, both visiting ports in France and Spain, but also in a busy shipping lane that continues through the English Channel.

Last October a humpback whale was spotted in the River Thames, despite the human interest in the sighting, it also sadly died as a result of a collision with a ship.

Ramblers’ Roadshow to offer free training There will be free training for those interested in enjoying the Island’s countryside on foot on Saturday, May 2 as the Ramblers' Roadshow visits Northwood House in Cowes.

As well as the chance to meet keen walkers, share ideas and hear about the opportunities available to walk on the Island, there will be practical workshops on walk leadership, basic and advanced rights of way, first aid and navigation.

At the end of the day there will be a short walk led by the Isle of Wight

Ramblers and a discussion and question session with a panel of experts.

The roadshow coincides with the opening of the Isle of Wight Walking Festival which runs from May 2 to 17.

The event is open to Rambler members, volunteers and those who are interested in volunteering with the Ramblers. You can book a free place at eventbrite. co.uk/e/isle-of-wight-roadshowtickets-86362248811.

Photo credit: Visit Isle of Wight

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Pull out and keep - Legal and Finance feature

Send in your tax return to avoid that fine Begin the New Year the right way by sorting out all those urgent financial and legal matters At the start of a new decade why not make a couple of financial resolutions that will stand you in good stead for the rest of it?

A timely one, if you haven’t already done it, would be to get your tax return filed before the end of this month. Accountants are always inundated with people who’ve left it to the very last moment before discovering they haven’t got that one crucial piece of information they need to avoid a £100 fine for late filing of their tax return.

Why not tackle the task this weekend and get it over with? And if you need an accountant to help they’ve still got a fighting chance of helping you to avoid a fine, and using their specialist knowledge of tax law they may well cut your tax bill, saving you more than you pay in charges. Even better, make a friend of your accountant by making, and keeping, a resolution to get your tax affairs in shape early in the 2020 tax year!

Another great resolution is to review all your insurances to make sure they still meet your needs. It really is a no-brainer to take advice from an insurance broker on this. Whether for business or personal insurances they can undertake a full review of your circumstances and make recommendations which you can choose to follow or not. They know their market inside out and their advice is usually free. Some people are surprised to find that brokers can often find deals better than popular comparison websites, either offering cheaper prices or better, more tailored cover.

We all buy insurance in the hope that we will never need it, but many of us do, and when it comes to making a claim having somebody on your side helping you to deal with everything can be invaluable. Whatever your insurance needs why not give an insurance broker a call and find out what they can do for you?

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10th January 2020

When it comes to financial

Sometimes DIY is attractive! you may feel personal pride at a room newly decorated or get a kick from the money saved by laying a laminate floor, using instructions downloaded from the internet.

However, when it comes to serious legal and financial decisions the DIY route is often a false economy that will end up

costing you dear.

For example, solicitors certainly make a lot more money sorting out a badly drafted will, written using a pack from a stationers or an on-line service, than from sitting with you for an hour to help make your wishes clear about what should happen to your assets after your death.

And solicitors aren’t the only option for writing your will; professional will writers often offer a more personal service, typically visiting you at home and getting to know you before making suggestions and recommendations about how your will should be drafted.

You could take the view that at least you won’t be around

to witness grieving family members arguing about who should get Great Aunt Milly’s vase that may (or may not!) be worth a fortune. But think for a moment about the anguish of your nearest and dearest who genuinely don’t know what you wanted to happen to your worldly goods.

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and legal forget about DIY Continued from previous page Making your wishes clear can give comfort and certainty and take away the need for tough decisions to be made at a very difficult time.

With financial advice it is just as critical that you speak to a professional. Significant events in your life such as inheriting money, having a child, getting married or divorced or deciding when to take pension benefits, are just some of scenarios in which you should consider talking to a professional advisor about your finances.

This is even more important in these days of blended families with a range of different and sometimes competing interests to consider.

Setting up a pension, buying a home or planning for retirement are typically rare or one-off choices and involve large sums of money.

You will probably have very little experience on which to base these important decisions.

You can seek guidance from family, friends or online, but none of these options can give you as much confidence as getting advice from a professional.

If you are worried about the costs of getting advice, be assured there is legislation

in place to make sure you are fully informed about what, if anything, you will be paying and what you will be getting for your money. For example, taking professional advice about setting up a pension, may leave you

many thousands of pounds better off over the course of your retirement.

Making mistakes with DIY around the home can be fairly easily fixed, making the wrong decisons about important legal and financial

decisions can affect you for the rest of your life. Put simply, taking the right advice from the right person at the right time may be one of the best decisions you ever make.

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Whether it’s good or sad seek advice from a professional The first Monday after January 1 is known as Divorce Day. This year it was Monday, January 6. Solicitors get many enquiries from couples hoping for a new start with the new year, whose relationships have broken down after spending time together or who for the sake of their families waited until after the holidays to seek advice.

The prospect of divorce is an obvious time to consult a solicitor, but there are many other reasons, and not all of them are sad. Your solicitor can also help you buy a new home or set up or grow a business.

The traditional image of stuffy, formal solicitors and their offices is usually far from the truth these days.

Solicitors have done much to strike a more modern balance between the traditional values of giving sound, pragmatic and practical advice with being approachable, accessible and making clients from all walks of life feel comfortable. They know what they are talking about and don’t dress it up

in legalese.

Whatever your need for legal advice, it is often at a daunting time of life.

It is usually better to find a solicitor you feel comfortable with and you have confidence in at the earliest opportunity. It is helpful to talk issues through in general terms at the outset, prior to giving formal instructions. This helps you to get to know your solicitor and gives him or her the opportunity to identify any potential issues, so they can give you a far better idea of what to expect and avoid pitfalls later on.

On the subject of fees, as with most things, they are less intimidating if you face up to them. Don’t be embarrassed to ask questions. Your solicitor will explain how fees are calculated and may give an estimate of how much your case is likely to cost. They will also be able to tell you if you qualify for legal aid or if they are covered by insurance. A final bill at the end of the case is usual, but it is possible to ask for monthly bills, or even to agree a fixed spending limit.

10th January 2020

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24 Entertainment

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LOCAL EVENTS ACROSS THE ISLAND MEDINA THEATRE

By

10th January 2020

Jade Honey

Local bands ‘Rock for Good’ to raise money for WightAid

The Wight Strollers Sleeping Beauty

This timeless tale takes place in the heart of Fairytalia, where a beautiful princess has been cursed by a wicked fairy to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and will sleep for a hundred years, or until she is awakened by True Love’s First Kiss…

February 15 @ 7.30pm

Wannabe - The Spice Girls Show

Stop right now! Thank you very much. It’s time to Spice Up Your Life like it’s 1996. Relive the 90s through the hits of the Spice Girls on this Spice World journey; all you have to do is Say You’ll Be There.

February 28 @ 7.30pm

Ben Hart: Wonder

Britain’s Got Talent 2019 finalist, West End star and multi award-winning magician Ben Hart is embarking on his debut solo tour. Described

by David Walliams as ‘the living embodiment of magic’, Ben has recently played to royalty, heads of state and celebrities, in West End theatres, international arenas and on dozens of UK and international TV appearances.

February 29 @ 7.30pm

BOOKINGS & INFO 01983 823884

www.medinatheatre.co.uk

Sponsored By Wightlink

The best of the Island’s rock bands joined forces and performed an incredible all-day gig, raising money for local charity WightAID. It was the fifth Rock for Good event organised by Joshie Adams and held at Coburgs in Ryde.

The event was headlined by Irish inspired folk band, Feck whose barnstorming set had the crowd jigging along to Irish punk and folk classics including The Fields of Athenry and Fisherman’s Blues.

The band’s authentic Irish sound was enhanced by the beautiful violin playing of Sophie Vickers.

Afterburner put on an emotional set for their last gig. They really showed the young ones how to rock with their classic sound. Highlights included an epic version of Neil Young’s Rockin’ in the Free World complete with immaculate guitar solo and a haunting performance of Billy Idol’s Rebel Yell. Bobbin and the Babymakers always put their absolute all into their set and this was no exception.

Jack Hall from Sexy Pretty Things took over drum duties for a formidable and energetic performance of Queens of the Stone Age’s ‘No One Knows’ which had the crowd leaping, bouncing and jumping along in hot, sweaty, musical heaven.

Hot-Pocket were cool and classy as always. They delivered a fun, crowd pleasing set with one of the favourites being Aha’s ‘Take On Me’ which had the happy Coburgs crowd singing and dancing along as the WightAID charity buckets were passed around and raffle tickets sold.

King Kuna played their beautiful

and original songs. Like a heavier, more evolved Nirvana, their melodies are inspired and alluring.

King Kuna’s singer, Jack Singleton said: “Playing Rock for Good is always a pleasure, such a topnotch line-up of Island bands and artists all coming together for a great cause - the atmosphere is always fantastic.”

Valentine Grey performed their own brand of exciting cacophony!

At times sounding like Pink Floyd and others like Gojira. Proles are proper old-school, venomous punk and they are great!

In complete contrast, folk musicians, The Rug Band had over 10 performers on stage from the young to the more mature. With ukulele banjo, violin, percussion, wood wind and singers, their funfuelled, performance of Queen’s Fat Bottomed Girls was joyous.

Credit to Joshie Adams for his hard work, enthusiasm and dedication in putting on this regular charity event which raises vital funds for WightAID to put into Island community projects.

Joshie said: “Rock for Good works because of the hard working musicians who bring it all together.

Without them we wouldn’t have been able to raise over £1,000 in the last year for local Isle of Wight charities. I’m proud of what we have all done together and look to make these events bigger and more exciting in 2020 onwards.”

Rock for Good has established itself as a highlight on the Island’s musical calendar.

The next Rock for Good will be at Coburgs on Easter Sunday.

Lots of frosty fun with Elsa & Anna

Join the famous Snow Sisters, Elsa and Anna, for magical meet-and-greets with exciting games and songs. See them in their frosty forest at Tapnell Farm Park, and if that isn’t magical enough, there will be a magic show and close up tricks for kids with Huxley Magic.

Their new Roller Rink* will be open in the frosty forest too – a great way to skate off those post Christmas Blues!

The meet-and-greets and magic are not ticketed, and are included in the farm park admission. Just turn up and say hello!

Elsa, Anna and Huxley Magic will be at the Farm Park from 11am – 2pm in the Event Barn.

The Roller Rink* will be open from 11am – 4pm and sessions can be booked at the roller rink in the Event Barn.

Buy your Farm Park admission online in advance to save money. For tickets and more information, please visit www.tapnellfarmpark. com *The Roller Rink is an additional charge, not included in Farm Park Entry.

Paid locally.

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THEATRE, LOCAL EVENTS & CINEMA The Halsey Duo at Quay Arts This year sees the world celebrating Beethoven’s 250th birthday - and at Quay Arts on January 19, they are delighted to welcome The Halsey Duo (Sally Birkett and James Halsey). Performing his complete Piano & Cello concertos in a series of commemorative recitals, it’ll certainly be a performance to remember.

Also performing on February 16 and March

29, make sure you don’t miss out! Tickets are available at quayarts.org

SHANKLIN THEATRE

January 19 @ 11.30am Quay Arts Newport Harbour PO30 5BD £8

Eight Bells Quiz Night The Eight Bells in Carisbrooke are holding a quiz night to raise money for a community defibrillator. It is 4 people per team and a raffle will also be held on the night. The target goal is £500 to place the order.

Bookings can be made by phoning the pub direct on 825501, or by sending them a message through Facebook with details of no. of team members and time of arrival.

Not a fan of quizzes? If bingo is more your thing, then why not book with them on January 15 instead.

Michael Portillo - Life, A Game Of Two Halves

It took Michael Portillo little more than 10 years to get a seat in the Commons and then rise in power and esteem to a point where he was a favoured leader of his party and possible future PM.

February 6 @ 8pm The Eight Bells 31 Carisbrooke High St, PO30 1NR £2.50pp

February 1 @ 7.30pm

Open Mic Night at Gracellie Hotel Looking for something to do tomorrow night? How about heading down to Gracellie Hotel Bar and Restaurant for a fun filled evening. Open mic night is sure to get your boogie on! Come down and have a sing song, a few cocktails and let your hair down. There’s even an opportunity to showcase your talent where they are scouting for local singers/bands

for potentially a few paid gigs during the season.

January 11 @ 7pm Gracellie Hotel Bar and Restaurant 25-27 Hope Road Shanklin, PO37 6ED

Walk a Donkey Day! The first of Donkey Sanctuary’s special, dedicated ‘Walk a Donkey’ days takes place on Saturday, January 25.

Donkey walks will take place from 10am through to 3.30pm and each individual session will last 15 minutes each. You’ll get the chance to meet your donkey, walk the donkey from its barn up to the special walking paddock and then return the

donkey to its barn at the end.

Advance booking only by calling 852693.

Age 7+ January 25 @ 10am Donkey Sancutuary Lower Winston Farm, PO38 3AA £5pp

Count Arthur Strong - Is There Anybody Out There?

As well as being the all-round entertainer we all know and love from the telly, Count Arthur Strong is also a lifelong fan of astronomy, since having been given a microscope, or whatever it is they use, for Christmas when he was a small precocious baby. In fact, it’s said the first word he spoke was ‘Uranus’.

February 15 @ 8pm

WHAT’S ON AT THE CINEMA? RYDE

NEWPORT

SCREENING

SCREENING

1917

Little Women

Amid the anarchic chaos of the First World War, two young British soldiers are tasked with carrying a critical warning message across enemy territory in a bid to save the lives of 1,600 men.

Four sisters must navigate through their young adulthood as they find their place in the world after the American Civil War. But there might just be more to life than finding love and settling down.

Frozen 2

Spies in Disguise

Why was Elsa born with magical powers? The answer is calling her and threatening her kingdom. Together with Anna, Kristoff, Olaf and Sven, she’ll set out on a dangerous but remarkable journey.

Super spy Lance Sterling embarks on epic missions.

Walter Beckett is a genius scientist who creates amazing gadgets. Together, the pair make a pretty good team.

Jumanji: The Next Level

Cats

In Jumanji: The Next Level, the gang is back but the game has changed. As they return to Jumanji to rescue one of their own, they discover that nothing is as they expect.

As the Jellicle Ball approaches, a group of cats must decide among themselves who should ascend to the Heaviside Layer for a new, better life.

Revenge by Robin Hawdon

Bill Crayshaw MP leads a charmed life, hailed in the corridors of Parliament, lauded in business, and loved at home. That is until he returns from a business trip to find his party agent has been killed in a terrible, tragic accident – or was it?

Various dates & times

BOOKINGS & INFO 01983 868000

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News

Can farming be profitable and help the environment?

The Country Landowners Association (CLA) South East is kicking off 2020 with a free debate on the Isle of Wight, exploring whether farming can be both financially and environmentally sustainable.

It will be held on Wednesday, January 29, from 6pm to 8.30pm at the Garlic Farm, Newchurch, supported by rural property specialists BCM. The evening will seek to answer the question ‘Food versus the environment: Can we farm profitably in harmony with nature?’, examining the challenges farmers and landowners face in balancing food production with environmental considerations.

CLA South East represents farmers, landowners and rural businesses across the Isle of Wight. Regional Director Michael Valenzia said: “Farming and agriculture are the bedrock of the rural economy on the island, and they address some of the big challenges facing us such as feeding a growing population, tackling climate change and restoring the natural environment.

“With the proposed Agriculture and Environment Bills currently delayed, what should farmers be doing to plan for the future? How will any post-Brexit trade deals affect our food and the environment, and how can our world-leading welfare standards be protected? These questions and more will be covered during the debate, and we look forward to what will be a very interesting evening.”

The speaker panel will be Harry Greenfield, Senior Land Use Policy Adviser at the CLA; Jamie Marsh, reserves manager at the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust; Vix Lowthion of the Green Party; and Nick Shorter, CLA member from Velcourt. James Attrill, President of the CLA Isle of Wight Branch will chair the meeting.

The evening will conclude with a drinks reception and canapés. It is free to attend with donations to the CLA Charitable Trust. Free tickets can be booked at portal.clahosting.org.uk/ MY-CLA/Events/Event-Details/eventDateId/3384.

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10th January 2020

The top fashion house that began in Cowes Redfern’s Fashion House; Cowes, London, Paris, New York.

Did you know that Cowes was once at the centre of the fashion world? In the 1840s John Redfern established a linen drapery business at 41 High Street, Cowes. The shop benefitted from its proximity to Osborne House and the yearly Cowes Regatta which then, as now, brought royal and wealthy customers to the Island.

When Redfern’s started making special yachting outfits and less restrictive ‘tailor-made’ ensembles in the 1870s, the business gained international success. Redfern outfits were popularised by fashionable women of the day including not only Princess Alexandra, wife of Edward, Prince of Wales, but also his mistress Lily Langtry.

Over a period of 20 years Redfern’s expanded, opening branches in London, Paris and New York, transforming

a small drapery business into an international fashion enterprise.

Kate Tiley, the Curatorial Assistant at Carisbrooke Castle Museum, will talk through the history of the fashion house of John Redfern, on Tuesday, January 21, and how it grew from a small Island drapers to an influential fashion empire with branches around the world. There will also be an opportunity to see examples of Redfern outfits from the museum’s collection.

Places can be booked by e-mail to info@carisbrookecastlemuseum.org.uk

or call (01983) 523112. Tickets cost £8 and include refreshments and advance booking is essential.

First aiders needed for Island events Picture by Emma Colenutt

New volunteers are being sought by St John Ambulance to be trained as first aiders to attend events on the Island and sometimes further afield, supporting the public at a wide range of events including football matches, firework displays and various shows.

Following an induction process full training and a uniform is provided and travel expenses will be paid. You will learn how to deal with medical situations from a sprained ankle up to emergencies such as a cardiac arrest and you should be available for eight to

10 hours each month. More details are available on their website sja@org.uk or by e-mail from michelle.dobson@ sja.org.uk. The closing date is January 30, with a selection event to be held on February 3.

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Share your family news with the IW Observer You can now announce births, marriages and deaths in the IW Observer.

Book online at iwobserver.co.uk/announcements. Prices start from ÂŁ7.50 per insertion.

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1. Put under a spell (7)

1. Groom’s helper (4,3)

5. Going round in circles (5)

2. Bread ingredient (5)

8. Foul language (5) 9. Vegetable that’s all leaf (7)

3. Most populated Canadian city (7)

10. Show put on in the afternoon (7)

4. Sport played on grass or ice (6) 5. Wooden house (5)

11. Wanting something (5)

6. French castle (7)

12. Bad (2,4)

7. Not your ally (5)

14. Aliens taking people (6)

13. Leaving exclamation (7)

18. Bladed weapon (5)

15. Thief, bandit (7)

20. Folding paper into models (7)

16. Divide into three (7)

22. Told off (7)

17. Gaze in awe (6)

23. More than enough (5)

18. Peel off wallpaper (5)

24. Long wooden structures at Yarmouth, Totland & Sandown (5)

19. In charge of a duchy (5)

25. Metaphorical or literal glow (7)

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Sudoku

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

21. Pack leader (5)

Spot the winning move? White to play & mate in three moves. Puzzle kindly supplied

by John Wrench. To join a club email: chessplay@mail.com. Last weeks solution: 1.

Nxc4 dxc4, 2. Qxc4++ (if 1. . .Rxe3 then Qxe3++)

Wordsearch Find the following names of hibernating animals, from across the world, horizontally, vertically, diagonally, backwards and forwards BATS BEAR BUMBLEBEE DORMOUSE GARTER SNAKE GILA MONSTER HAMSTER

HEDGEHOG LEMUR MARMOT SNAIL SQUIRREL TORTOISE WOOD FROG

For the answers to the crossword, see page 2.

Spot the differences

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Crossword

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Puzzles

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Can you find all eight differences between the two pictures of the Moody Blues piano at Mountbatten below?

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Scooter Rally on move - but also staying put!

Due to the camping restriction on a playing field owned by Ryde School, but used by Smallbrook Stadium for the Scooter Rally, VFM, the rally organisers, have now chosen to move away from the traditional home of the Island’s Scooter weekend. Instead the main camping and gathering area will be at Sandown Airport.

But according to Smallbrook Stadium Manager Sarah Greenall, all is not lost.

She said: “Smallbrook has been the home of the Scooter Rally for 20 years and it will continue to act as a venue for scooter fans to meet and enjoy a great August Bank Holiday weekend. There will be plenty of camping space, plenty of music, food, drink and, most importantly, great fun and right next to the action area in Ryde.

“The feedback we received from last year's weekend is our incentive to continue to make the Scooter Weekend at Smallbrook something everyone looks forward too. I

10th January 2020

Nature Notes

cannot wait to welcome friends old and new to a new era of Scooter Weekends at Smallbrook.”

Camp tickets will be £15 per tent for the weekend and day tickets £5. Bands and acts will be announced in due course.

Ferrymen have found a Fishbourne Friend! Differences between albino and leucism

A recently formed sea shanty crew has a home port for their weekly practice sessions at Wightlink’s Fishbourne terminal.

The Ferrymen were formed in October when several local men from Havenstreet, inspired by a love of the sea and naval history, put up a poster asking if anyone was interested in forming a shanty crew.

Very quickly a group of nine was formed, under the experienced shanty guidance of Josh Harcourt-Slowley, crew member of the Wellington Wailers, and singing teacher Emily Hall.

Finding the right venue for weekly practice was resolved when a group member approached the Wightlink in the Community Facebook page and Port Operations Manager Martin Gulliver offered the Victoria meeting room at Fishbourne’s terminal.

Group member Andy Schofield said: “The Victoria room is ideal; it’s warm, has good

acoustics and of course, means we can see travellers coming and going across the Solent whilst we sing!”

The Ferrymen have already performed at several public events and received positive feedback from appreciative audiences. Other events being planned this year include a performance on board a Wightlink sailing to give passengers a musical, nautical treat.

Stuart James, marketing and innovation director at Wightlink, said: “When we were approached by the Ferrymen we were more than happy to support them by allowing them free use of the Victoria Room. As travellers know we are always keen to host onboard entertainment and we are looking forward to having the Ferrymen perform on one of our routes shortly.”

For further Information about The Ferrymen contact Andy Schofield on 07810 873346.

Shanklin Rotary club to hold annual charity sale Shanklin Rotary are to hold their annual charity sale at Lower Hyde Holiday Park, Languard Road, Shanklin, beginning next week.

The sale, which offers huge bargains, has raised thousands of pounds for charity over the years. It will take place from Tuesday (Jan

14) at 10am until Saturday (Jan 18) at 4pm. It will recommence from Tuesday January 21 at 10am until Saturday, January 25 at 1pm.

Albino birds are rare, especially in the wild. By comparison leucism, as affecting the reed bunting photographed at Newtown, is more widespread.

Leucism comes from a genetic mutation that means an enzyme called tyrosinase is missing from the pigment cells. Albino birds lack the natural pigment melanin, while leucistic ones have melanin but can’t put it into their feathers which thus remain white, unless they already have yellow ones in their natural colour scheme in which case they are unaffected.

To further complicate identification, there is also ‘partial leucism’, resulting in a patchy appearance, and something called ‘progressive greying’ which eventually leads to white feathers.

The latter is not an inherited condition, but leucism is, though it can jump generations, and generally spells bad news for sufferers in several ways.

Feathers are weaker and don’t wear well which can impede flight and since leucistic birds are bound to stand out in a crowd they will inevitably fall foul of predators.

Hawks and falcons are particularly adept at spotting unusual patterns.

These are not likely to appeal to potential partners either.

One way to tell albino from leucistic birds is eye colour. Albinos have red eyes and poor vision meaning they don’t last long after fledging, while leucistic birds’ eyes are normal colour as are the bill, legs and other bare parts.

A few years ago the British Trust for Ornithology got excited when hundreds of blackbirds with white feathers were spotted in gardens across the country.

The BTO’s Abnormal Plumage Survey gathered nearly 700 sightings comprising a total of around 35 different species. Three quarters were of leucistic birds and nearly half of these were blackbirds. Albinos accounted for only 12 of the records up to that time.

The causes of leucism are still not fully understood but they may be down to the environment; more leucistic birds are found in urban areas where nutrients, or lack of them, could be a factor.

A colony of leucistic ravens has been found on Vancouver Island in Canada.

They are believed to be close to albino; in any case they don’t seem to survive much beyond adulthood.

Here legend has it that ravens were once white and helped the original inhabitants discover fire, turning black in the process. Also that they went black when bad men came and killed the white buffalo.

Don’t assume, when you see a bird that’s a bit off-colour, that it is leucistic, or even albino. Blizzard plumage, for example, varies enormously. One was seen on the Island recently that was practically snowy white.

Latest sports news P. 33

10th January 2020

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Letters

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Holmesy!

The David Holmes Column

A new year and a new decade...

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Island Soapbox

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

They belong to the author and the author alone - Letters must be no longer than 250 words please.

Vision for the future Dear Editor, Visions are most often associated with the claims of religious leaders and fiscally creative politicians. So I thought how nice it might be to apply a more modest vision of things that would help our local community.

To that end I’ve rubbed my decorative crystal ball, and come up with the following.

1: A change of heart from Ryde Council, who have thus far been deaf to pleas for a simple line of paint defining a cycle lane along the coastal path from Ryde Lifeboat Station to the Boat House Pub.

2: A business collaboration between local garden centres and the Pound Shop to help local wild bird life. If the former bought their supplies directly from the latter, and sold them at double the cost, that would still be far less than their standard price on such items.

3: Southern Vectis working with Tesco to move the bus stop directly outside of the Ryde store. This would replace the drop off point, currently misused by lazy gits who refuse to park with more considerate shoppers.

Everybody wins!

Adam Webb - Ryde

Telehealth or Telehell?

Being prone to the winter blues, the beginning of a new year makes me anxious about the future. The start of a new decade creates some additional torment, for example, at my age will I even be here in 10 years’ time to see the next one.

January has barely got going and things are grim. Australia is ablaze and TV Medium Derek Acorah has died; how long before another showbiz medium claims to have spoken to him beyond the grave, offering condolences? A couple of years ago I saw Derek at Shanklin theatre with my mate Tracey, we only went for a laugh and did snigger a bit, up until he relayed a very few seemingly meaningful messages to a handful of audience members who were obviously comforted by them.

As a small child, I remember my old nan going to a spiritualist, hoping to receive a message from her second husband, my ‘uncle’ Frank. She got one too, the message was ‘please fix the webbing on my favourite chair.’

As she told it, she hurried home and lifted the cushion on the chair and sure enough, a bit of webbing was broken, dangling on the floor. Nan was reassured by her beloved Frank’s spooky communication, but I thought it threw up some pretty big questions. If afterlife contact was possible, why pass on such a pointless message, why not more valuable information, such as the whereabouts of buried treasure or next week’s lottery numbers? And if as she claimed, Uncle Frank was ‘up there waiting for her in-heaven,’ wouldn’t her first husband be hanging around too?

Over Christmas, someone on social media claimed to have photographed a spaceship through the window of a Wightlink ferry.

Disappointingly it turned out to be the reflection of a cigar-shaped plastic light fitting, but seriously, think about it, if you were able to effortlessly traverse the galaxy at will, why conceal yourself on arrival? After all that effort, it would make far more sense to land and show-off your vastly superior knowledge and technologies? Humans can be pretty dumb and it’s not hard to imagine more intelligent life elsewhere, but I think when they come, aliens need to get on with advising us on alternative fuels and plastic packaging as soon as possible.

Speaking of other planets, Australia is the most desolate place I’ve ever been. Even without the horrendous fires it’s completely inhospitable. They don’t bother building highways out of their cities because no-one would use them, long distance travel by road is pointless because everywhere is too far away and you’d die before you arrived.

In the 80’s an Aunt emigrated with her children; I think at least in part because it guaranteed their father would never see them again.

Wronged women can be very mean can’t they? As can wronged men!

Our now middleaged cousins still live down-under, but I fear if the harrowing fires aren’t extinguished soon, they may all return to the mother country.

In my nightmares they showup on my doorstep in cork hats, concealing snakes, crocs and funnelweb spiders in their hastily packed luggage.

The images from Australia are heartbreaking. That said, I’m keeping my fingers crossed that my lot tough it out, because in my book, when you’re gone, you’re gone, either down-under or up there with Derek Acorah and Uncle Frank.

“January

has barely got going and things are grim”.

Dear Editor, TeleHealth is the latest technological wheeze designed to keep elderly patients away from hospital. Monitoring patients remotely in their home, or care home, clearly has many benefits. However, it is important it is not used as a tool to quietly abandon patients in the community, denying them hospital care should they genuinely require it.

Last year saw the IW NHS Trust trial a variety of TeleHealth initiatives. The intention is to now roll out this technology more widely, with the Island becoming a national lead in this field. I recently made a FOI request asking how many patients have been admitted, or readmitted into hospital, on the basis of TeleHealth data, and was very surprised that when the Trust replied they did not have this

information. I would have thought such data would be fundamental in assessing the true clinical value of TeleHealth.

Medical based technologies, when applied appropriately, can provide wonderful benefits for patients, but there are many issues surrounding TeleHealth which need discussing. Our NHS already faces a major Mental Health crisis. We need to be finding ways of reducing this burden, not discover new ways of adding to it.

Sadly, I see little, if any, debate taking place around these issues. TeleHealth seems to be something the IW NHS Trust intends imposing upon many elderly islanders without any real open public discussion or consultation.

Hans Bromwich, Cowes

Praise for Action Group Dear Editor, I wholeheartedly welcome the Council’s decision to approve plans for an ice rink and leisure centre at Smallbrook.

I often took my younger son and his friends to the one at Gosport 25 years ago, where they put on a disco on Friday nights. You could get a cheap family ticket, skate hire included, and there was a burger bar. Altogether, it was

PUBLIC NOTICE

extremely good value and it was always packed out. There was nothing like it in Portsmouth and it was well worth the round trip.

Ryde Area Community Action Group is to be congratulated for carrying the project through to this stage. We must hope it comes off as it will, as Nichola Roe says, fill a ‘desperate need’ for the whole Island, residents and visitors alike. James Allaway, Newport

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Sport

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Sport Observer

By Peter White

Cowes & District Snooker League

Week 10 Results: WC Con 4, Lib A 3; Con C 3, Con A 4; Lib C 3, Con B 4.

Highest scorer of the week: G. Brown, -5 (Con C) 90 v 78 C. Elliott, 35 (Con A).

Most Consistent: M. Cheverton, 40 (Con A). Won 7, Lost 2. 569402 Points.

PL W L F A Diff Pts Lib A 10 41 29 3656 3278 378 41 WC Con 10 38 32 3927 3836 91 38 Con C 10 37 33 3900 3967 -67 37 Con B 10 33 37 3574 3793 -219 33 Lib C 10 31 39 3563 3570 -7 31 Con A 10 30 40 3595 3771 -176 30 Highest Break: R. Green (WC Con), 61 (twice).

Newport Golf Club

Saturday Stableford: 1, Yolande Farrer (6) 41points; 2, George Ringer (7) 41; 3, Mark Hancott 38.

Sunday Stableford: 1, James Bradley (21) 42; 2, Robert Robinson (15) 37.

Cowes Golf Club

Coleby: 1, Mike Boll net 30; 2, Ernie May 32; best gross: Pete Widgery 41. Coleby: 1, Chris Pryce net 29; 2, Mike Ribeiro 31; 3, Terry Crews 32; Best gross: Viv Jenkins. Pyrah Stableford Division 1: 1, Paul White 41 points; 2, Brian Hartnell 39; 3, Dave Samuel 38.

Division 2: 1, Stephen Deacon 37; 2, Howard McHale 36; 3, Dave Wright 31 pts (OCB).

Ron Ryder Medal Round 3: 1, Craig Insley net 63; 2, Ian Hobson net 66; 3, Keith Arnold net 69.

Pyrah Stableford: 1, Richard Stisted 44; 2, Keith Arnold 40 (ocb); 3, Tom Deacon 40.

Dave Howell Shield: 1, Andrew Churms 40; 2, Peter Eames 36; 3, Paul Woodcock 35 (ocb).

Three Island runners claim Hants cross-country titles The Isle of Wight has three new County champions in cross-country athletics, with Campbell Laird, Henry McLuckie and Charlie Metcalfe all claiming titles in their respective events.

Over 800 runners took to the fields and woodlands around Fairthorne Manor near Botley in the Hampshire Championships, and five clubs were represented by Island runners, who compete for Isle of Wight Athletic Club (IWAC), Ryde Harriers (Ryde), Isle of Wight Triathlon Club (WTri), Southampton and Kingston and Poly Harriers.

The U17 and U20 races started together, with the older competitors running a slightly longer course. There were two gold vests at the front of the action, Henry McLuckie winning the U20s race and Campbell Laird with a perfectly paced run to get gold in the U17s race, both from IWAC. James Fletcher (WTri) and Dylan Holdsworth (IWAC) also finished the U17s course in 15th and 20th respectively. Mabel Lewis (11th) and Milly Bacon (17th) both completed the U17 event for IWAC.Charlie Metcalfe (Ryde) ran strongly in the Senior Women’s race to take 11th overall and first in her age category (W40), the third Island champion of the day.

In the youngest age groups Scott Fossa out-sprinted two other U11 boys to claim a great silver medal, and also a team gold with his Southampton club. Jasper Jenkinson was 47th for WTri and Oliver Flood 59th for IWAC. For the girls Katie Bunn did well for 13th (WTri) followed by Maisie

Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club

Harris Cup: 1, Sean Millward 42; 2, Ashley Curzon 42; 3, Richard Pardey 41; 4, Leslie Webb 40; 5, Tony Valvona 40.

Mitchison Trophy (Bogey): 1, Brian Price plus 5; 2, Steve Collins plus 3; 3, Ian Miller plus 3; 4, Dave McToldridge plus 1.

Open Stableford Division 1: 1, Joseph Green 42; 2, John Richards 39; 3, Barry Guy 39. Division 2: 1, Tony Arthur 44; 2, Gareth Brooks 38.

Jellicoe Cup Knockout: 1, Ollie Bucket, 2 Dan Mew. Losing semifinalists: Christine O’Brien and Joanne Wright.

Ryde Golf Club ladies’ section

Nine-hole Bowmaker: 1, Lyn Backshall, Marg Kirby and Tricia Warner 26 points; 2, Sara Weech, Julia Bailey and Rosie Walshe 25; 3, Trish Pitts, Doreen Perkis and Di Taylor 22.

Osborne Golf Club

New Year Stableford: Division 1: 1, Nick Hunter 36; 2, Brian Wright 35; 3, Dave Street 34. Division 2: 1, Peter Wright 42; 2, Dennis Brown 36; 3, Trevor Maidment 34. Division 3: 1, Leigh Lipscombe 33; 2, Martin Marshall 32 ocb; 3, Pete Steen 32.

Saturday Stableford: 1, Derek Wright 38; 2, Graham Daish 36 ocb; 3, Andy Partridge 36. Division 2: 1, David Geddes 38; 2, Michael Wood 35 ocb; 3, Jay Squires 35. Division 3: 1, John Cooper 37; 2, Paul Cates 35; 3, Richard Highmore 32.

Sunday Stableford: 1, Alex France 38; 2, Sean Woodford 36 ocb; 3, Paul Woolford 36.

Island Vecta Billiard and Snooker League

Team Knockout: Newport Con 600 v Ryde BL 591. Terry Phillips (1) 182 v John Barnes (74) 200; Dave Cox (-28) 344 v Tony Worsfold (62) 400; Rob Smallman (82) 600 v Pete Whiteman (107) 591.

League: Chillerton 12 v Newbridge 3: Jamie Sprake (69) 200 v Kev Whillier (-35) 52; Trevor Rider (118) 200 v Roger Packer (72) 181; Andy Potts (14) 200 v Trevor Whillier (40) 100.

PL W L Pts Chillerton 9 5 4 80 Newport Con 8 6 2 72 Ryde B.L. 8 5 3 61 Arreton 8 3 5 54* Newbridge 9 2 7 47 *Arreton deducted 1 point for one man rule.

Highest Break - Trevor Whillier 48

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Charlie Metcalfe - W40 Women’s Champion

Campbell Laird, U17 Boys’ Champion and Henry McLuckie, U20 Men’s Champion Gibson (23rd) and Abigail Fancourt (50th) for IWAC. Archie Pearson (ninth) was the only U13 boy from the Island, and Freya Taylor the only girl, both for IWAC, Freya unlucky to miss a top 12 position by just two seconds. From U13 and above the top 12 in each race receive a letter to invite athletes to apply for a spot in the Hampshire team.

The U15s saw five Island boys complete the course, with Noah and Jacob Patey 39th and 43rd, followed by IWAC teammate Jackson Hill in 66th. WTri had Benjamin Van Der Helstraete (64th) and Billy Williams (68th). Seven Island girls raced in the U15 category, with Robyn Fossa again the fastest finishing in sixth for Southampton, who also took team gold. Maisey Kent finished 18th, Lily Barclay and Naomi Holdsworth were 29th and 30th with Mia Stillwell and Charlotte Fancourt 44th and 52nd (all IWAC). Orla Gradwell was 55th for WTri. Ryde had a big team with Jodie Wilmott (10th W35 woman), Claire Campbell (10th W40), Rosie Eldridge (17th W40) and Natalie Rose (30th SW). Sarah Probert had a fantastic run, negotiating a tough off road course with limited vision, coming in with guide runner Samantha Fancourt in 19th and 20th W40. For IWAC Katie Lewis was 11th W40 in the event.

The Senior Men were last off and first Islander home was Dan Eckersley (10th) with Adam Tuck (Ryde) 28th in the Senior Men’s (SM) category. Trevor McAlistair (Ryde) was 60th SM, followed in by Simon Lewis (IWAC) (16th M45) and Nigel Eldridge (Ryde) (20th M45). Ken Beak and Glenn Sharman (both Ryde) finished 10th and 11th in the M55 category.

Fixtures and Match Officials for Saturday (Kick-off 2pm unless stated) Wessex League Premier Division Horndean v Cowes Sports (3pm) Wessex League Division One Newport v New Milton Town (3pm) Bemerton Heath Harlequins v East Cowes Vics (3pm) Hampshire FA Trophy Fourth Round (1.45pm) Brading Town v Frimley Select – Ian Smith Fareham Town Reserves v Northwood St Johns – Mainland Referee Whitecroft & Barton Sports v Bush Hill 1st – John Hopkinson Hampshire FA Vase Fourth Round (1.45pm) Harvest Home v Whitecroft & Barton Sports Reserves – Mainland Referee Hampshire FA Plate Third Round (1.45pm) Ryde Saints Reserves v Brading Town Reserves – Brian Hayward

The IOW Memorial Cup First Round, sponsored by Andy Butler Sports Ground Specialist East Cowes Vics Reserves v Yarmouth & Calbourne – Richard Mcfarlane Newchurch v Seaview – Jamie Saltzer Newport Reserves v Osborne Coburg – Chris Cass Niton Community v AFC Wootton – Keith Ruth The Ken Morris IOW Junior A Cup Second Round, sponsored by Harwoods Renault Saturday League West Wight Reserves v Sandown Reserves – Stephen Todd Harwoods Renault Saturday League Division One Bembridge v Ventnor – Steve Raybould Carisbrooke United v Shanklin – Keyson Colebrook Cowes Sports Reserves v West Wight

– Dave Jukes East Cowes Sports v Pan Sports – Arron Tree Ryde Saints v Binstead & COB – Ian Gordon Division Two Vectis v Adgestone – Dale Smith No Fixture: Oakfield Combination One Northwood St Johns v Carisbrooke United – No Referee Available Oakfield v Binstead & COB - Andy King Shanklin v East Cowes Sports – No Referee Available Combination Two AFC Wootton v Ryde Saints A - No Referee Available Newchurch v Yarmouth & Calbourne - No Referee Available Osborne Coburg v Bembridge - No Referee Available Pan Sports v Niton Community - No Referee Available

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10th January 2020

Hurricanes defeated in tense battle at Bognor

Thomas Damp snatching the throw in

Bognor RFC 27 points Sandown & Shanklin 21 Sandown and Shanklin kicked off the new decade with an away trip to old foes Bognor RFC, looking to keep pace with the leading teams in Hampshire Premier.

But the Hurricanes didn’t get off to the best of starts, conceding a penalty which was converted by the host’s fly-half for an early lead. This was followed up moments later with the first try of the game, Bognor increasing their lead to 10 points.

Sandown & Shanklin then found a foothold in the game, with the Bognor defence beginning to concede penalties at the breakdown and this allowed the Hurricanes to gain vital territory in the home sides 22. The increasing pressure accrued two yellow cards for the hosts and, a few phases later, centre Michael Barrett

barged over from short range. Flux converted for Sandown to get their first score of the game.

This got the away side fired up, and after reclaiming the restart strong carrying from W Williams, Smith and Chiverton got the Hurricanes into the Bognor half.

Another string of penalties from Bognor allowed Flux to kick Sandown into the Bognor 22. The resulting line-out set a strong maul for the visitors, driven over the try line, with hooker, Zak Chiverton dotting down for the second score. Flux converted to edge Sandown ahead for the first time, 10 - 14.

A last-minute break in the opening half down saw a Bognor player evade tackles to score in the corner, for a 15-14 half time lead.

Following the break, the Hurricanes didn’t get off to the best of starts, and Bognor found a gap out wide to score. With another

penalty coming Sandown’s way, their attack was quelled by Bognor, another sin bin created another opportunity for the home side, with the penalty taken quickly.

A handful of phases later, Smith barged over for Sandown’s third score. Flux converted to edge the away side into the lead again.

However, a lapse of concentration allowed Bognor to outmanoeuvre the defence and exploit the space for a fourth try, converted. Then Bognor battled to prevent the Hurricanes from finding a matchwinning score, and they had to settle for a losing bonus point.

The Hurricanes are back in action tomorrow (Sat) when they welcome New Milton & District RFC to the Fairway. The 2nd XV are at Andover, to play their 3rd XV, and look to maintain their position near the top of Hampshire Three.

Lady bowlers lose in Mason Trophy The IW Indoor Bowls Club Ladies B team took on Bournemouth Indoor Bowls Club’s Ladies A in the third round of the Mason Trophy. The match was close up to the halfway point when the Bournemouth team took the advantage and ran out winners by 40 shots to 24. Playing at home the rink of Phyl Fredericks, Barbara Moye, Ann Hoath and Sue Green had a competitive match but the visitors ran out winners by 18-16. The away rink of Trish McMurray, Jane Kilby, Carol Jones and Shirley Stubbs were in their match up to the halfway stage. From that point onwards the home side took control to win 22-8.

The club travelled to Riverside Indoor Bowls Club to play a friendly, and ran out winners by 128-103. This was mainly due to the quartet of Malcolm Addison,

Seamus Morris, Margaret Carrett and Carol Jones who recorded an emphatic 42-6 win. Only other winners were Allison Maundrell, Val Addison. Jeff Henshaw and Simon Gibbs who also made a major contribution by finishing 23-12 to the good. Also helpful was a draw for the quartet of John Rich (substitute), Peter Swinfield and Barry Rodwell who by winning the last two ends tied their match. The rink of Angela West, Bernie Allen, Jack Young and Ian Ball came back well in the latter stages and only went down by only two shots. Gary Rodger (substitute), Shirley Stubbs and John Carrett had a deficit of 23-17. There was no joy for Bob Stubbs, Ted West, Steff Ball and Roy Jemson as they trailed throughout and went down by 26-12.

Great day for Vectis U14s Vectis U14 RFC travelled to Eastleigh RFC U14, a team who had easily beaten them at home previously.

Although it took Vectis some time to settle, their defence was solid, and when Hamish Lawal-Rieley went over it was no more than they deserved. Then Jamie Priddle touched down, and Archy Williams converted for a 12-nil lead.

The second half carried on in a similar vein, with Vectis playing rugby in the Eastleigh half and

some great defence. Hugh Owen scored Vectis’s third try, and they maintained the pressure which resulted in an Eastleigh mistake, and Ben Martin dotted down under the posts with Henry Takel adding the conversion to round off the scoring on a great day of rugby, and the comfortable victory showed how much they continue to improve.

Vectis are away to Andover on Sunday, a side they drew with in the final last season.

Swimming success The IOW Masters Swim Club’s Most Improved Swimmer 2019, Fiona Claxton received her trophy from the 2018 winner, Roz Sheward at The Heights Pools. Fiona said: “Being able to swim in a controlled lane with colleagues of a similar standard has enabled me to improve my swimming. I am proud to receive the award.”

10th January 2020

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Ventnor Bowling Club looks Ryde looking to stay top of table to welcome new members

The Leslies Motors Indoor Cricket League gets going again this Sunday (Jan 12) with the top three sides in Division One all in action. Current leaders Ryde 1 will look to continue their fine form when they take on Brading and second placed EPP come up against Northwood 1 who are just one place behind. In Division Two, top side Cowes are without a game which gives the opportunity to Ryde School to close the gap when they play Ventnor.

Five games take place at Cowes Enterprise College on Sunday starting at 5pm: 5pm, EPP v Northwood 1 (Div 1); 6pm Ryde School v Ventnor (Div 2); 7pm Disabled Team v Prison Officers (Div 2); 8pm Brading v Ryde 1 (Div 1); 9pm Shanklin & Godshill 2 v Newport (Div 2).

If you live on the south side of the Island and want to learn to play bowls, but you don’t want to travel across the Island in the winter months, Ventnor Bowling Club is inviting you along to their clubhouse in Mitchell Avenue to try out our facilities.

They have a well-lit and heated indoor rink with a full-length carpet, which is available exclusively for beginners on Monday evenings until the end of March.

They charge a nominal fee of £2 to cover the heating and lighting costs and your first night is free so - if you decide it is not for you, then you have not lost anything.

The beginner’s sessions will re-commence on Monday, January 13 at 7pm and every Monday evening at the same time until the end of March. All equipment is provided, even shoes, although most people prefer to take their own trainers or similar flat-soled shoes. You are welcome to go along at any time during the next three months; you don’t have to be in at the beginning.

The Ventnor rink is normally in use seven days a week for league games morning, afternoon and evening, and knockout competitions at weekends. At the end of March, the carpet is covered over and the space reverts to a clubroom with tables and chairs with room to seat, potentially, over one hundred people.

For any information about learning to bowl, contact Derek Venier on (01983) 853571, email info@ventnorbowlingclub. com or just turn up on any Monday night after 7pm.

Leslies Motors - Indoor Cricket League – 2019 Division One Pl W Tied L Bonus Pts Pts

Downer breaks ice to claim oldest trophy There was certainly no sign of any ice as the Icebreaker Trophy, the oldest trophy in the Bembridge Illusion winter programme, was contested, with Mark Downer taking the honours from Raymond Simonds and Justin Biddle.

A fleet of 22 boats headed out of the harbour in the hopes that the gentle breeze would settle and provide some close racing. In the first race, David Peerless was first to round the windward mark with Andy Christie not far behind. Biddle led the chasing group with Alastair Speare-Cole and Simonds ready to pounce. Peerless remained in the lead for the first two rounds, however Christie overtook him on the third beat and although under pressure, he held his nerve and crossed the line in front of Biddle.

Alastair Speare-Cole made an excellent ‘flyer’ at the start of the second race that gave him a significant lead ahead of Downer and John Raymond.

But Speare-Cole had a senior moment approaching the leeward gate and rounded it incorrectly. Unaware of his error, he continued the race and crossed the finish line after three rounds in front, but having had it pointed out that he had failed to sail the correct course, he retired. This gave Jo Downer the win, with Raymond second.

The start of the final race of the day saw Speare-Cole again first to round the windward mark, but it was not long before Downer took over and never looked back. With the swell increasing and the breeze off Silver Beach coming and going, it became a bit of a lottery, however although Downer’s first place was secure, second to fourth was extremely close with Biddle just taking second.

Although there was only a gentle the following day, it was decided to set the course for the 23 boats racing in the

Ryde 1

5

5

0

0

47

97

IW Cricket Board EPP

5

4

0

1

31

71

Northwood 1

5

2

1

2

33

58

Shanklin & Godshill 1

5

1

1

3

33

48

Brading

5

2

0

3

26

46

Island Bakeries

5

0

0

5

24

24

Cowes

5

5

0

0

42

92

Ryde School

5

4

0

1

25

75

Ryde 2

4

4

0

0

32

72

Shanklin & Godshill 2

5

2

0

3

28

48

Ventnor

5

2

0

3

24

44

Newport

4

1

0

3

22

32

Prison Officers

4

1

0

3

20

30

Northwood 2

4

1

0

3

11

21

IW Cricket Board Disability Team 4

0

0

4

11

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Division Two

The Bay, CTK and Cowes take League Cup honours

Raymond Simonds, Justin Biddle and Mark Downer. harbour. Although this meant that the course was quite short, it provided some excellent close racing.

In the first race, John Raymond was first round the windward mark with Mike Toogood and Raymond Simonds in hot pursuit. Simonds took over the lead in the second round but was unable to hold off Toogood and Downer who both overtook him during the third round.

Although Raymond Simonds’ white and red spinnaker was first to fly after the spreader, Biddle and Richard Ambler were not far behind. The second round saw Simonds extend his lead and

Downer take over as the head of the chasing group. However, on the third beat, Biddle managed to get himself into second by the finish.

The final race saw the General Recall displayed after nearly half the fleet at the pin end of the line were over the line. The surprise leader at the windward mark was beginner Alex Toogood and although she managed to hold onto the lead to the leeward gate, sadly she slipped down the order as the race progressed. Simonds took over in front and took his second win of the day ahead of Downer.

The Island Secondary Schools have recently staged their Years 8, 9 and 10 League Cup finals, with The Bay, Christ The King and Cowes Enterprise College emerging victorious.

In the Year 8 final The Bay soon got the upper hand over Ryde School and went two goals ahead. Ryde attempted to stage a comeback, but could not create any clear cut chances, and The Bay added two more goals to win 4-0, even though Ryde staged another late fight but were denied by some strong defending by the winners.

CTK won the Year 9 League Cup final with a 4-0 success over Medina on Cowes Enterprise College’s new 4G pitch.

Both teams worked hard on the big pitch and there were some good performances. CTK played some lovely passing football to create a number of good chances but a superb performance from the Medina keeper stopped them from scoring for some time.

But CTK finally got the breakthrough with 10 minutes left of the first half, and then dominated the second period, to scored three more without reply and run out worthy winners.

In the Year 10 final, a single goal was enough to give Cowes Enterprise College victory over The Bay in a tight match of good attacking and solid defending from both sides.

Cowes settled quickly on their home turf and passed the ball around with purpose in midfield. The Bay came into the game and looked dangerous at set pieces with several opportunities squandered with one hitting the woodwork and another cleared off the line.

It took a wonderful first time strike from the edge of the box to win the tie, with Cowes holding on despite some excellent play by The Bay in the final 10 minutes as they pushed for the equaliser.

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10th January 2020

Layla’s Trust benefits from entertaining rugby match Isle of Wight RFC XV 31 points Layla’s Trust XV 42 An IWRFC selection XV took on a Layla’s Trust XV in the club’s annual charity match.

With the Trust side made up of past players and returning students, the game was eagerly anticipated, and both sides entered into the spirit of the day, with commitment and no little skill on show.

It was some 20 minutes before either side made an impression on the score sheet. It

was the Trust who stretched away to a threetry lead as first Jack Davis crossed, followed

by Angus Brown reacting to a loose ball and galloping in from 40 metres. A backs flowing move then released Rob Sice to score.

Not to be outdone, the Island XV drove deep into the 22 and Andi Raunigger crashed over from a five-metre scrum to leave the score 17-5 at half time.

The Trust opened the scoring in the second half with James Reed crossing. George Huish grounded for the Island team, with Lewis

Murray converting, before a break and chip

by Huish led to a try by Luke Blackman. This was then soon added to as Callum Pudney crossed, bringing the score to 27-24 to the Trust side.

This raised the tempo of the Trust players as Brown scored his second and Jevon Dry threw three dummies to sprint free.

Pudney finished off his second try, again converted by Murray, only for the Trust to have the last say in the match as Dan Bishop crashed over, leaving the Trust to win for the

second year in a row.

More importantly was the meeting of old friends and the raising of £300 for Layla’s Trust. Sarah Leahy, representative of the charity, said: “We continue to be grateful to the rugby club for their ongoing support of Layla’s Trust over the years. They have raised funds regularly in that time, all of which goes to support Isle of Wight children with serious illnesses and their families.”

Alan stays in charge after lengthy lay-off!

The IOW Motor Cycle Club’s 2020 Winter Series Trials Championship was kick-started on at Sweetwater Brook in Calbourne with around 40 entrants tackling wet and muddy conditions.

Elite rider George Gosden completed the four laps of eight sections with a score of 32, but

Alan Stay

would have hoped for a lower total on the A route, as Expert riders Jack Ayres and James Stay both posted lower scores, 27 and 28 respectively.

Expert newcomer, Tom Richards finished on 55, an impressive score considering his recent move up from the Intermediate class.

Former Intermediate champion

Mark Coombes, scored 27 on the B route but lost out to Alan Stay who finished first on just 20, on returning to trials after not riding for a few years. Scout Gregory finished in third place on 30.

Simon Newnham was clear winner in the Over 50s class riding the B route, 11 marks clear of Rory Stephens with Andy Scott-Jackson third on 50.

Adam Morgan comfortably won the Clubman class riding four of the B route and four of the C route sections. Phil Chase and Colin Brodie will surely battle closely for the championship again this year, having finished in second and third place respectively.

In the Twin Shock class, Nick Symes put in an impressive ride with 46 on the C route sections.

Calvin Wright finished second on 74, while the Novice class had some close competition with three riders tied on 29. Ryan Munt was awarded the win with an outstanding 20 cleans, while John Coombes and Joe Taylor both cleaned up 17 times,

Alfie Haydon with John awarded second place.

Sam Jurich, the only rider in the Adult Beginner class finished on 68.

Alfie Haydon has moved up to the Youth Expert class and scored just 42 under the watchful eye of dad, Ross who is an extremely

accomplished rider himself. Alfie Gaskin finished on 109 in the Youth Intermediate class.

The Sportsman class was won by Steve Chase, completing a mix of both C and D route sections on 25, ahead of Tristan Osborne on 60.

10th January 2020

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Honours shared at puissance evening

Island Equine Academy held their puissance evening at Lake Farm Equestrian Centre, thanking all sponsors and riders, with a huge ‘well done’ to Kelly Read and Tian Hughes, joint winners of class two, with the wall standing at 1.45m. Joint winner of class one were John Waghorn, Charlie Shelby-Pike, Beth Murthwaite and Alicia Stay.

Pictures by Kev Cant photography

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10th January 2020

Streeter the hero as Alton catch a cold!

Alton 1 Newport 3

IW Seconds show bravery in defeat Havant III 39 points IW II 17 Isle of Wight RFC Seconds began 2020 with defeat for their second team in a Hampshire Two encounter at Hooks Lane, Havant. IW gave a good account of themselves against the reigning league champions but were unable to capitalise on a purple patch either side of half-time.

Despite exceptional defensive shifts by Biffa man of the match Jake Puckett and captain Ian Puzey, Havant made inroads and were three tries up inside the first quarter.

IW finally got their hands on some possession, though hindered by the loss of Rouse man of the match Rory Nobes, whose promising debut was cut short by injury. After kicking a penalty to touch inside the Havant 22, a textbook driving maul took IW over the whitewash, Puckett scoring

his first try for the club. However, Havant were stung and scored twice more in quick succession.

Facing a 25-5 deficit, IW looked in dire straits, but showed great spirit and began to dominate play, and George Huish kicked ahead, before winning the race to the touchdown, which he converted.

Vibrant attacking play forced the hosts into the concession of multiple penalties. A quick tap from the last of these led to Luke Blackman crashing over for IW’s third try. Havant were under pressure but showed for the remainder of the game why they are champions and closed out the victory.

They scored a crucial try with 15 minutes remaining which gave them a 15-point lead, before running in the final score of the game. Tomorrow (Sat) the IW first team host Southampton University Hospitals, while the Second XV are at home to bottom side New Milton. Both games kick off at 2.30 pm at Wootton Rec.

Record entry for Enema Duathlon A record number of 48 competitors took part in the third Wight Tri Winter Duathlon Series, the East Cowes Enema Duathlon, organised by Neil Cooper in conjunction with the BTF Go Tri Initiative, which allowed entry for junior competitors aged 15 and above.

The competitors chose a 2.2km or 4.2km run route, followed by one, two or three laps of the 10km cycle route, before

a second run. First to finish in the nominated times event was new member, Joe Tigwell, who completed the long course run and bike routes in 1:54:55, only five seconds inside his nominated time.

Second was the team of Dave Dent and Jonathan Woodhouse, who posted the fastest overall time for the same course of 1:24:52, eight seconds, inside their estimate. Third was Sean

Williams, 12 seconds inside his nominate time of 1:30:00.

The fastest individual time for the long course was posted by Simon Pilcher in 1:23:42, with Isle of Wight Junior Triathlon Club member, Kaitlin Wilson, posting the fastest female time for the short course of 46:30.

The next Duathlon in the series is the Chillerton Crucifier on January 26.

Newport began the New Year in fine style, taking full points off Wessex League, Division One high-flyers Alton, who were unbeaten in their previous 10 matches.

Keeper Gary Streeter, who was doubtful before the game due to illness, pulled off a string of fine saves to complement the three fine goals that Newport scored to stun the opposition on their own 3G pitch.

Newport manager Andy Sampson said: “Gary made a few very good saves. When he came off at half time, he wasn’t sure whether he could play the second half because he didn’t feel too good. He had been ill in bed with flu over New Year period, but he went back out, and after he made another good save he seemed fine.

“We scored three good goals, and although overall we weren’t great, we played well enough, and most importantly we took our opportunities.”

Newport were ahead inside two minutes through Jordan Browne and they held their slender advantage until the break, thanks mainly to Streeter’s agility and determination. The Island side continued to frustrate Alton in

the second period, and extended their lead on 70 minutes t h r o u g h J a c o b Reynolds.

Then they had a slice of good fortune when Alton seemed to Gary Streeter have pulled one back, but it was ruled out because the referee had already blown for a foul in their favour before the ball went into the net.

Alton finally gave themselves a glimmer of hope late on from the penalty spot, but Newport responded almost immediately with Lewis Wright hammering home from 25 yards to ensure maximum points.

Newport are at home to Bemerton Heath Harlequins tomorrow, with Sampson adding: “If we can keep the majority of our squad fit and available then we can give any team a game, and after losing at Bemerton earlier in the season, three points against them this time is a must.”

Bricknell set for return to boost the Yachtsmen Cowes Sports 1 AFC Portchester 3 Cowes Sports are hoping to have Gareth Bricknell back in action next weekend after being sidelined for more than two months recovering from a fractured cheekbone.

Bricknell (pictured) is set to play for Cowes Reserves in the IW League, Division One game against West Wight tomorrow, and will be back in first team action against Hamble Club on January 18, providing he suffers no further setbacks.

Yachtsmen manager Max Draper said: “Gareth has not played since I took over, and it will be a massive plus to have him back. He is club captain, and a big player for us.”

The Yachtsmen need all the help they can muster to try to move away from the Wessex League, Premier Division danger zone, their latest defeat coming at home to Portchester.

Two penalties, both conceded by Scott McFarlane, dented the Island side’s hopes of victory, but Draper said: “Scott usually plays in midfield, but did us a favour by slotting in at left back. He is still a teenager, learning the game, so I’m not going to blame him.”

Portchester went in at half time with only a one-goal lead, and Draper felt his side were still in with a chance. But the visitors extended their lead before Ewan Cranwell pulled one back for the Yachtsmen from the penalty spot.

However, any hopes of taking a point were quickly erased when the visitors

restored their two-goal advantage.

Draper added: “This is probably the first game that I have been in charge of that I did not see a lot of positives. But we are getting more players back from injuries, so we are staying positive.

“Over the next few weeks we are playing three of four sides who are pushing for the title, so we also have to be realistic. Most of them are similar to Portchester, who can afford to bring in players and pay them good money, which we cannot do any more. So in the games coming up against the likes of Hamble and Horndean, we know what to expect. But all my lads are training hard and are up for the fight, beginning with this weekend’s game at Horndean.”

10th January 2020

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Top WightTri awards for Dean and Janet Vics take point but felt it should have been three East Cowes Vics 1 Whitchurch Utd 1 Although pleased with the draw against a Whitchurch side pushing for a Wessex League, Division One promotion spot, Vics manager Richie Woodburn reckoned: “It was a game I felt we should have won.”

He said his players carved out sufficient chances to have secured the victory, and just felt Whitchurch were there for the taking. He said: “Whitchurch have a run of games against sides in the lower half of the table they are expected to win, but we took the wind out of their sails, so at times it did get a bit heated.”

One flashpoint resulted in Vics’ Eli Ahmed (pictured) being shown a red card for what was claimed to be for punching an opponent, although Woodburn said: “I don’t think anyone in the ground saw him even threaten to throw a punch, so that was very disappointing. But overall, since I took charge we have played seven games and suffered only two defeats, and a couple of months ago I would definitely have taken that.”

In a fiercely contested first half Whitchurch took the lead from the penalty spot, just a couple of minutes after Vics felt the should have been awarded a spot kick. But the Island side’s heads did not drop and Ahmed scored the equaliser following a smart build-up just before the break.

Although Ahmed was red-carded about 10 minutes from time, Vics went for the win, but couldn’t find the net again despite some promising moves.

Woodburn added: “Whitchurch are a strong, physical side, and I was pleased that my lads stood up the the challenge, and although it was a point gained, I felt it was more two points dropped, and that shows how far we have come in a short space of time.”

Vics are at Bemerton Heath Harlequins tomorrow (Sat), and Woodburn added: “I know they won’t be taking us likely because they are also going for promotion, and can’t afford to drop any more points.”

Woolley completes Warriors’ line-up Isle of Wight Wightlink Warriors speedway team have named Tom Woolley as the final piece in their jig-saw for the 2020 campaign.

The Warriors management have been working hard behind the scenes, and have now completed their squad, with Woolley returning to the Smallbrook Stadium where he has been successful in the past.

Captain Ben Morley will be leading

the side again when the new season starts in April, and this time he will be wearing the No1 race jacket with a 9.18 average.

It will be Morley’s third consecutive season as the Warriors talisman and Blandford-based Chad Wirtzfeld has also rejoined Warriors, having shown steady progress in 2019.

Russ Mellor of sponsors Cut Laser Cut presenting Female Triathlete award to Janet Fletcher

Gill Bushell, secretary, presenting Male Triathlete award to Dean Pike

Wight Tri held their AGM and Awards Evening at Chessell Pottery to celebrate another successful year for the Isle of Wight triathlon club, with the Male and Female Triathlete of the Year awards presented to Dean Pike and Janet Fletcher.

Dean has had an amazing season, in only his second year of taking up the sport. He qualified for the Island Games Triathlon Team and continued his success when taking on the London Marathon, the Prudential Ride London and the Swim Serpentine to become the only Island athlete to complete the triple challenge.

He completed an awesome 2019 by winning the West Wight Triathlon, which also was part of the Wight Tri Club Championship. Dean also received the Winners Trophy.

Janet also had a super 2019. She represented Team Isle of Wight in the Island Games and also represented Team GB age group at the European Age Group Standard Distance Triathlon Championships in the Netherlands. She completed her season with top eight age group performances in the British Sprint and Standard Distance Triathlon Championships as well as gaining qualification for the GB age group events in 2020. She has qualified for the World Age Group Standard Distance Triathlon in Edmonton, Canada as well as the European Age Group Sprint Distance

Dan Morgan presenting Duathlete of Year award to Simon Jones

Triathlon in Malmo, Sweden and the European Age Group Standard Distance Triathlon in Tartu, Estonia.

The Duathlete of the Year was awarded to veteran Simon Jones, who continues to compete at international level, representing the GB age group Duathlon Team in the 60-64 category. The Lifetime Member award was awarded to a true Wight Tri stalwart, Steve Dines who has held many club roles over the years, and has always been an inspiration to club members. Steve also received the Percy Veerance Award, which is presented to the Triathlete who never gives up.

The Most Improved Athlete Award was presented to newcomer, Angela Tapster, and the Club Volunteer Award was a joint affair for Neil Cooper and Liz Dunlop. The Club Championship Award went to Rob Doorly, with the Male and Female Winners being Dean Pike and Laura Abrook.

The Male and Female Winners of the Wight Tri Spring Sprint Triathlon Trophies were awarded to Janet Fletcher and Craig Wilson.Awards were also presented to the Male and Female Cross Country Champions, Mary Norman and Bill French, with Gill Bushell receiving the Winter Duathlon Nominated Series Award and Liz Dunlop, the Golden Crank Award.

Rally success for Weaver Continued from back page sponsor to the team, expressed his delight at both this result and a successful season which has delivered and overall win and numerous class honours for Richard. He said: “It’s been a wonderful season for Richard and a pleasure to watch the progression throughout the year. It has been especially nice as a local Isle of Wight business to support a home-grown team. It is always a pleasant surprise to see so many Island sportsmen and women achieving in all manner of sporting activities. We’re really quite good at it!”

Richard will cite his next event as the Sandown Speed Trials which take place on the weekend of March 28 and 29, when the Isle of Wight Car Club host this closed roads motorsport event at Sandown Seafront. With as many as 150 competitors it is sure to kick off the holiday season in style.

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Sport Sport

Observer

www.iwobserver.co.uk

10th January 2020

This week’s highlights...

Running

Three Islanders claim title

By Peter White

Rugby

IW Seconds show bravery in defeat

33

38

Dougie’s seven decades of donning the gloves!

Sandown FC goalkeeper Dougie Stephens had a surprise when he turned up to play for his club last Saturday, as the Mayors of Sandown and Shanklin, together with past and present team-mates, were on hand to present him with awards recognising his seven decades playing adult football on the Island.

Dougie, formally of East Cowes Vics, Newport, West Wight and other Island teams, moved to the Island from Birkenhead and attended Sandown Grammar in the 1960s, and has played for Island clubs ever since.

Sandown Mayor Gary Young said: “Dougie is a credit to his sport and is a role model for young people. The fact he continues to play regularly shows what can be achieved if you have the right mind-set.”

Shanklin Mayor Steve Knight added: “Dougie played for Shanklin VYCC in the noughties and 2010s, always encouraging the younger players - in fact all the players were younger! So it’s really appropriate that he’s recognised for his achievement.”

Dougie received footballs signed by past and present colleagues, a special ‘Legend 7’ cake, a football top embroidered with each decade, and a folder of cuttings from the

Dougie Stephens (sitting) with Mayors of Sandown and Shanklin, Cllrs Young and Knight, other Councillors, players (past and present) and Chair of IOWDFA Geoff Ruck seven decades, as well as emails from some of countless football friends.

Gary Young added: “Dougie is really an

Island sporting legend, and is also known for his singing and fishing, and everyone hope’s he carries on for another decade.”

Weaver finishes rally season in style with a second place!

Island rally driver Richard Weaver took to the Mini Tempest Stages Rally at Rushmoor, Aldershot in his Go-Internet sponsored Mitsubishi Evo 6 rally car, and finished the year in style.

The event was a welcome opportunity to round out the rally season, and the private roads offered a mixture of grip levels, which provided a challenge for competitors as the surface changed from very dry to extremely slippery in a matter of yards.

The tight nature of the venue rewarded precise driving and any mistakes would prove costly with just eight short stages for the crews to tackle. Of the 52 competitors, Weaver and co-driver Tim Sayer from Kent, immediately went second fastest overall and

remained there for the rest of the day.

They drew joint fastest time on stage five with the leader, but on stage six they had a scare when the front driver’s-side tyre punctured after a heavy impact with a raised kerb. This forced them to complete the remainder of the stage on mostly the wheel rim, after the tyre partially peeled off, but fortunately, they only lost six seconds. With a healthy lead of 46 seconds to the next competitor and a 31-second deficit to the leader and just two remaining stages, Weaver and Sayer consolidated their second place as the rally drew to a close.

Trevor Cook of Go-Internet, who is a main Continued on page 39