Style of Wight Issue 77 July/August

D E S T I N AT I O N

BEMBRIDGE Ta k i n g o n T h e Ta l i s k e r C h a l l e n g e A Summer of Food by the Sea

L I F E S T Y L E

Natural jute, bamboo and hessian home lighting, unique wall art and stylish home furnishings available now.

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm 14 -16 High Street, Shanklin, PO376LB | Te l : 0 7 9 5 6 3 5 1 3 4 1 @ a c a c i a b a y i ow | a c a c i a b a y i ow. co . u k

The Lodge Alverstone £850,000

4 | EPC TBC

Overlooking AONB land and enjoying countryside views in all directions, characterful and oozing charm, this detached family home sits on a plot of 0.5 acres in Alverstone. The area is renowned for its walks, bridleways, and is only yards from the cycle path leading to Newchurch/Sandown. The house itself has benefitted from upgrades in recent years offering two good size reception rooms, a conservatory and en suite facilities to the master bedroom.

The Water Tower Seaview £850,000

3 | EPC D

“The Water Tower” is a unique and an individually styled property that has, over the years, undergone a complete transformation with great care having been taken to preserve the fullness of its considerable charm, heritage, and character, along with its huge architectural and historical relevance to the locality. Set in an elevated position on the boundary of the Woodlands Vale Estate, the property commands breathtaking rural and sea views from its rear aspect.

Our London office is at 21 Park Lane, Mayfair and guarantees our properties are exposed to a vibrant national and international markets.

CLASSIC

CONTEMPORARY

4 Fishers St Lawrence £850,000

COASTAL

4 | EPC E

Uninterrupted channel views in the sought-after village of St Lawrence.

A substantial home in an elevated position, arranged over three floors with a bedroom and annexe style facilities to the ground floor. The main living areas enjoy balconies overlooking the sea and an abundance of natural light floods the rooms. Constructed in 1977 and upgraded in recent years, sitting in its own well-maintained gardens that are open plan to the front and enclosed the rear, this property is individual and ideal as a family home.

Cedar Cottage Bembridge £1,100,000

5 | EPC D

Strikingly pretty and sitting in the centre of its own plot, this 5-bedroom house is located on the sought-after Swains Road in the heart of Bembridge.

Approximately 100yrs old, Cedar Cottage has been thoughtfully arranged and benefits from spacious accommodation that flows with ease. The cottage style garden is mature and enjoys a sunny aspect and there is ample parking on the gravelled driveway for several cars. Only minutes from the beach at Swains Steps, village centre and other local amenities.

Newport 01983 538090

Ryde 01983 617640

Bembridge 01983 875000

More available on Rightmove, OnTheMarket.com and www.hrdthecollection.co.uk

SEAVIE W £2,650 ,0 00 A r a r e o p p o r t u n i t y t o ac q u i re a c l a s s i c p e ri o d h o m e a n d adja c e n t plot wit h pot e n t ia l t o b u ild a de s irab le c on t e m pora ry ho u se bo t h s i t u a t e d i n a s t u n n i n g b e a c h f ro n t l o c a t i o n .

V I E W IN G 0 1 9 8 3 8 7 3 0 0 0

SPENCEWILLARD.CO.UK

HELLO@SPENCEWILLARD.CO.UK

THORLEY £ 2, 6 5 0 , 0 0 0 A d e l i g h t f u l f o r m e r R e c t o ry a l o n g w i t h a c o t t a g e a n d g ood ou t b u ildin g s s e t wit h in won de rf u l g arde n s an d g rou n ds e xt e n d i n g to a p p r o x . 1 1 . 5 a c r e s , a l l w i t h i n 2 m i l e s o f Ya rm o u t h . E P C Ra t in g C

V I E W IN G 0 1 9 8 3 2 0 0 8 8 0

C O W ES £ 1 , 395, 0 0 0

S EAV I EW £900,000

A h a n d s o m e p e r i o d , v i ll a p ro v i d i n g c h a ra c t e rf u l , re f u rb is he d a n d l i g h t a c c o m m o d a t i o n o v e r f o u r f l o o rs w i t h a l a rg e ga rde n a n d w o n d e r f u l s e a v i e w s , s i t u a t e d i n a q u i e t p o s i t i o n , se t b a c k

A s u b s t a n t ial f am ily hom e wit h larg e m at u re g a rde n s an d p eriod c harac t e r t h rou g hou t g ran d re c e pt ion room s a n d si tu ated in t h e c e n t ral Se a vie w.

fr o m t h e s e a f r o n t . E P C R a t i n g F

EP C Ra t in g D

V I E W IN G 0 1 9 8 3 2 0 0 8 8 0

V I EW I N G 0 1 9 8 3 8 73 0 0 0

@ s p e n c e w i lla r d i w

STYLE | Home

Guide Price £450,000

Guide Price £550,000

A well presented 4 bedroom home situated in the pretty town of Yarmouth. Easy walking distance to the town, nature reserve and cycle path. 2 reception rooms and garden. Allocated parking.

A unique build from the inception, originally built with forethought and much detail by the current, and only, owners in 1960. This detached versatile home offers 4/5 bedrooms or 1/2 receptions rooms. A 315ft garden and plenty of off road parking.

Guide Price £485,000

Guide Price £635,000

A modern 3 bedroom bungalow set in a peaceful woodland location in the pretty coastal village of Gurnard. Garage and parking.

Contemporary townhouse tucked away in the heart of Cowes ‘Old Town’, with parking, 3 double bedrooms, open plan kitchen/dining room, sitting room, courtyard garden & Solent views!

Yarmouth, Isle of Wight

Gurnard, Isle of Wight

Cowes, Isle of Wight

Cowes, Isle of Wight

The Old Post Office, 73 High Street, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7AJ

Helping you find your perfect home...

Guide Price £550,000

Guide Price £450,000

Character two bedroom, two bathroom detached property in highly desirable Gurnard. Many original features and scope to convert/extend (STPP).

Garden and off road parking.

A 2-3 bedroom house that would make an ideal sheltered retreat for anyone with a boat as the property has a very well maintained pontoon, with authorisation to berth a boat up to 10m in length! Delightful creek views and a double garage.

Guide Price £1,100,000

Guide Price £1,600,000

Immaculate, high specification 2 bedroom apartment with two balconies and superb panoramic views onto the Solent and Cowes seafront. 2 parking spaces in the secure carpark beneath the building.

This stunning period home has been considerably remodelled. The exceptional panoramic Solent views, direct access onto the seafront and easy walking distance into the old town and town centre makes this one of the most sought after locations in Cowes.

Gurnard, Isle of Wight

Cowes, Isle of Wight

mccarthyandbooker.co.uk

Wootton Creek, Isle of Wight

Yarmouth, Isle of Wight

01983 300 111

This July we are celebrating 20 years of service Since starting the practise in 2002 we have provided high quality building design consultancy on the Island and across the south coast. We would like to thank all of our clients, old and new, for continuing to support our business.

Architecture Quantity Surveying Cost Consultancy Project Management Estate Management

03300 240365 info@ermc.co.uk www.ermc.co.uk

Note from the Editor Down by the sea That’s where I want to be, that’s where it all comes around.

Cover Illustration by Michelle Lott www.mooksgoo.co.uk

Editor and Creative Director Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk Associate Editor Jo Macaulay jo@styleofwight.co.uk Sub Editor Helen Hopper Production Assistant Hannah Wilson office@styleofwight.co.uk Contributors Lauren Fry, Dale Howarth, James Rayner, Kayleigh Trott Design Tim Mander Photography Christian Warren, Julian Winslow, Megan Clarke, Holly Jolliffe Sales Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk Distribution office@styleofwight.co.uk 01983 861007 Supported by Acclaim Logistics

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of Style of Wight Magazine, but legal responsibility cannot be accepted for errors, omissions or misleading statements.

Winners at the IW Chamber Awards 2016

Maybe it’s the sound of calming repetition as the sea kisses the land, or the ever-hopeful view of a never-ending horizon, the feeling of soft warm sand squeezing between the toes.

That salty sea air.

Watching the ships pass by; the new friendships that are made, the old hardships left to wash away. By the sea is a place to gather, a meeting point for early morning dog walkers, families making castles and memories or, as the day closes, lovers meet to bask in a romantic sunset. …There is something really very special about a life by the sea.

As you dip your toe into our coastal-inspired edition, we will share your stories of people and how their lives are influenced by sea (page 76) and the camaraderie of three explorers about to set off on an epic sea adventure to row the Atlantic (page 18).

Our food section is brimming over with celebrating the abundance and glorious bounty that the sea offers as it inspires our chefs with modern plates as well as those more traditional dishes we look forward to every year. Your home will feel the touch of summer by the sea too, as we inspire you with coastal trends and how to source and style the best from our Island independent retailers.

I hope to see you down by the sea soon.

When walking along the beach, focus on two things; the next step and the horizon. Everything in between is a part of the adventure.

- Michael James Wong Life is a big tambourine, the harder you shake it the better it seems - Robert Plant The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away - Pablo Picasso

Christian Warren

Get in touch

8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1EJ 01983 861007 www.styleofwight.co.uk

At the time of going to press we are seeing changes to regulations and social behaviour guidelines due to Covid-19. Some of the content in this magazine was committed and published prior to this guidance being in place.

July and August 2022

13

Find The Pieces That Make A House A Home

This & ThaT Our collection of furniture and accessories offer inspiration for every single room in your home. Whatever life throws at you, if you’ve got somewhere that feels homely - somewhere loved and lived - you’ll have a place of your own telephone: 01983 612 152 email: thisandthatseaview@aol.com web thisandthatseaview.co.uk Address: 1 Pier Road Seaview Isle Of Wight PO34-5BL

Traditional wooden painted toys and imaginative plush toys for creative, magical play.

109 High Street, Cowes

07368 841308

47

Contents

80

Issue 77: July and August 2022

REGULARS 16

18

Style Picks: Summer Must-Haves for Dining Al-Fresco – Possibly by the Sea The Style Scoop: What’s on and Where to be this Summer

FEATURES

HOME AND GARDEN

84

Destination Bembridge

95

White Orchid House

98

Horniman’s Tea: It All Began on the Island

96

Outdoor Living: with Busy Bee

101

Styling: Studio Jute Interior

109

Breakwaters

FOOD

20

Lead interview: The Mermaid Atlantic Challenge with Xavier Baker

60

Review: The Globe in Cowes

110

Property Profiles: A Home by the Sea

118

Style speaks: to Ainsley Harriott

40

Meet the Chef: Hambrough host Tushaar

115

Something to Walk All Over: Long Lane Carpets

45

Summer Cocktails with Mermaid Gin

BUSINESS

47

A Summer of Food by the Sea

52

Introducing the London House Bistro

55

Broad Bean and Feta Salad: with Will Steward of Living Larder

63

Tasting Luxury on Yarmouth Barber’s Cigar and Whisky Barge

ART 26

Make Your Own Tic Tac Toe: with Lauren Fry

30

On The Road To Binnel Bay…

35

Style Spectrum: Sam Scadgell

39 66

Children’s Writing Competition winner: Tru Crossley-Brook A Contemporary Arrangement

by Lisa Traxler

FEATURES 28

Meet the Maker: Thomas P Cochran

58

Harvey Browns Opens The Doors

92

Holistic Therapies and more with Laura Jane

Ecology and Bioiversity Feature: Living on the Island and Being Green

72

Mindful Hydration

by Caroline Hurley

64

Style of Wight Discovers: Gunwharf Quays

73

79

Russell Watson: Heading To the Woodlands to Sing

Selecting the Correct Summer Skincare Products with Courtyard Aesthetic

76

Fashion: What’s Hot For Summer

Celebration of the Sea: What is it About the Sea?

Buying by the Sea with Hannah Lisseter of Glanvilles Damant

117

Using Tax Planning to Leave More to the Kids

117

Success Breeds Success:

by Dale Howarth

FASHION, HEALTH AND BEAUTY 69

80

116

58 July and August 2022

15

Harvey Browns’ Brand-new butchery facility has all the barbecue meats you’ll need, from homemade sausages and burgers to marinaded ribs and kebabs. The butcher will chat with you, advising you on what to buy and how to cook it, and they can advise on marinades or do them for you.

Harveybrowns.co.uk | @harvey_browns

Harvey Browns Food always tastes better outdoors, doesn’t it? For the perfect picnic the deli counter in the Food Hall at Harvey Browns in Arreton has tasty pies, quiches, and salads made freshly every day. If you’re dining al fresco this summer, they have all you’ll need for the perfect outdoor feast.

Harveybrowns.co.uk | @harvey_browns

Style picks

Enjoy the sunshine and cater for a crowd with our sizzling selection of local barbecue essentials this summer.

Briddlesford Farm The award-winning Briddlesford HalloumiStyle Cheese will be the star of the show for your veggie barbecue option. With its buttery, creamy taste and golden colour, this little gem is visually striking and delivers an appetising caramel smell. Smoky barbecued halloumi will definitely be making its way into the Style of Wight burger buns this summer!

Briddlesford.co.uk | @briddlesford_farm

16

styleofwight.co.uk

This & That A grill for every occasion! This compact barbecue from This & That Seaview is perfect to use in your garden, when heading off for a day at the beach, or for a picnic. It’s easy to transport thanks to the handles made of acacia wood. The removable grill grate offers enough space for all kinds of your favourite Island delicacies — for an irresistible, smoky taste wherever you are!

Thisandthatseaview.co.uk | @thisandthatseaview

This & That Turn, flip and serve up a feast at your garden barbecue with this stainless steel and acacia wood set of three barbecue tools from This & That Seaview. A great reusable alternative to classic wooden skewers!

Thisandthatseaview.co.uk | @thisandthatseaview

Hursts, Newport Looking for eye-catching tableware to use in the garden? We’ve spotted a fantastic range of melamine outdoor items at W Hurst & Son. Lovely modern designs and unbreakable dishes — perfect for outdoor parties and barbecues.

Hurst-iw.co.uk | @tryhurstfirst

Hursts, Newport The Tower Stealth two-burner barbecue from Hursts, Newport, is our premium pick for al fresco feasts at home. The porcelain enamel-coated cast iron grill is very durable and retains large amounts of heat, providing fast and precise grilling. Made with a robust stainless-steel build, this barbecue will be a long-lasting and durable addition to your outdoor space.

Hurst-iw.co.uk | @tryhurstfirst

July and August 2022

17

the Style

scoop

The very latest dates for your summer diary, courtesy of Style…

Robin Hill Woodland Sessions – 12th to 22nd August Five nights of first-class entertainment over the ten-day period; dance ‘til you drop to Sigma and Dimension DJ sets on the glorious 12th; hear fantastic tenor Russell Watson on the 13th; laugh ‘til you cry with comedy from Russell Kane, Marcus Brigstocke, Angela Barnes and Suzi Ruffell on the 15th; pick up the Rhythm of the 90s on the 16th and get on down to The Bootleg Beatles on the 22nd.

See robin-hill.com/event/woodland-sessions-2

Ventnor Fringe

Jack Up Summer Pa rty

Giving Ventnor its annual top-up of weird and wonderful, Ventnor Fringe returns from July 22nd to 31st with an even bigger and better collection of comedy, cabaret, theatre, burlesque drag, spoken word, magic, and mischief, with loads of quirky kids’ things to watch and do. This year sees a bigger big top at Flowersbrook field and Free Fringe acts in the British Legion Club and on the Bandstand in the Park.

A fa m i ly-friend ly celebration of popu la r music from the 60s, 70s, 80s, a nd 90s featu ri ng a va riety of i nternationa l ly renow ned tribute acts from G eorge Michael, Tom Jones, Si mply Red, G o West, Spa ndau Ba l let, Du ra n Du ra n, Madon na , Jersey Boys ( Fra n k ie Va l l i a nd T he Fou r Seasons) as wel l as Rea l Dead Ri nger — T he Meat Loa f Show.

See vfringe.co.uk

18

styleofwight.co.uk

– Aug ust 13th a nd 14th

See jack upevents.co.u k /whats-on /jack-upsu m mer-pa rty

Ga rlic Festiva l

20th a nd 21st Aug ust One of the f i rst loca l festiva ls to be rek i nd led, i n 1983, the Ga rl ic Festiva l celebrates ou r Isla nd’s cha mpion bu lb, g row n at the nea rby Ga rl ic Fa rm, a nd ever y th i ng you cou ld possibly f lavou r or decorate w ith ga rl ic. Sta r chefs, l ive musicia ns, loca l cha rities a nd busi nesses, a nd l ive a rena shows.

See ga rl icfestiva l.co.u k /

Wight Proms Si x a ma zi ng n ig hts of: Horrible Histories ch i ld ren’s T V show f u n; Drag w ith El la Vaday, Chorizo May, K itty Scott- Claus; Opera hosted by Pen ny Sm ith; Comedy w ith Ju l ia n Cla r y; songs from the musica ls, a nd Wig ht Prom f i na le at Northwood House from 16th to 21st Aug ust.

Night Glow at Robin Hi ll

19th to 21st Aug ust Dive i nto i m mersive Nig ht Glow performa nces from i nternationa l ly renow ned hot a i r ba l loon pi lots from 19th – 21st Aug ust! Ba l loons i n su rprisi ng shapes a nd huge size f ly over you r heads a nd then retu rn to be l it up as the su n goes dow n wh i lst si ng-a long favou rites play across the va l ley.

Live music, roa m i ng street enterta i ners a nd del icious street food.

See robi n-h i l l.com /event/ n ig ht-g low/

See w ig htproms.co.u k

Awakening Festival – September 24th and 25th “A breathing space just for you away from your everyday routines and responsibilities. The Awakening is a chance to pause, reflect and connect back to the fullest essence of you — to re-ignite mind, body and soul.” How can you resist?

See awakeningfestival.co.uk

July and August 2022

19

STYLE | Interview

SPIRIT OF ADVENTURE

Rowing Team Takes on Talisker Challenge

By Jo Macaulay

If you went to the Isle of Wight Festival you may have seen a video on the main screens, on each side of the stage, telling you about the rowing challenge that Chris Mannion (Manni), Xavier Baker (Xav) and Paul Berry are undertaking.

20

styleofwight.co.uk

Interview | STYLE

Previous Talisker Atlantic Challenge winners Photo by Atlantic Campaigns

The Talisker Whisky Rowing Challenge is a 3,000 mile-plus ocean row from San Sebastian on La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour on Antigua Island, and next December (2023) the local crew will be entering this gruelling challenge, sponsored by Mermaid Gin. The push now is to raise around £100,000 to buy the boat and to pay for the provisions they will require for this amazing feat of human endurance.

But why?

Xav, who is co-founder and co-owner of the Isle of Wight Distillery, home of Mermaid Gin, says that they’d always wanted to sail the Atlantic, and that five years ago he’d seen a video on the Talisker Whisky Challenge and thought “no way!”

“But then I thought, “you’re not getting any younger and you’re only here once,” laughs Xav. “Paul and I had spoken for years about setting up Ventnor Rowing Club,” he continues. “Paul did row around the Island in one of his grandfather Jim Blake’s old boats. Paul has been rowing

since he was five! He was taught by his grandad and has always rowed in a hard-fixed seat clinker-built boat.

“Manni owns Island Coasteering and iSurf surfing school, and I’ve known him since school. He’s undertaken several expeditions, including paddleboarding round the island for charity, he’s certainly a well-able waterman. We’re all surfers and sailors, and Paul is ex-Royal Navy and now a longshoreman at Ventnor, and Paul and Manni are commercial divers.

“After a tipsy night in the Mill Bay, and then an unofficial secret meeting in the boathouse, we said, “Let’s do it!”.

We missed the application deadline for 2022, so we’re doing the 2023 challenge in December next year.

Raising Awareness of Marine Conservation “Part of the reason we are doing this is to raise awareness for marine conservation, especially seagrass. We have the largest seagrass meadow in Europe from Osborne Bay to Bembridge and the Isle of Wight Distillery is working with Hampshire Wildlife Trust on a restoration project [for this] in the Solent.

July and August 2022

21

STYLE | Interview

The boat will have a rolling seat and most of the time there will be t wo people rowing at the same time…

“Seagrass removes CO2 thirty-five times faster than trees.

It’s a great CO2 sink, putting CO2 into the seabed. It’s also a habitat and breeding ground for seahorses, cuttlefish and many fish species and it’s essential that we protect these breeding grounds. It also breaks up the waves, and so protects against erosion.

“We’re trying to communicate seagrass’s part in combatting global warming and raise awareness for the Seahorse Trust.

Their main focus is around Studland Bay and is run by Neil Garrick-Maidment — he’s been trying to protect Studland Bay seahorses. The dragging anchors of boat owners have caused terrible damage and Neil has created eco-moorings — floating buoys for boats to tie up to.

“The third charity we’re supporting is Surfers Against Sewage, and we are all members. They’re an active lobbying group that gives the government and the water companies a hard time about water quality — particularly about discharging effluent into our waterways.

“So, we’re trying to raise awareness and money for each of these charities”. (You can see more about this at mermaidatlantic.com/sponsorship/)

22

styleofwight.co.uk

A Tough Training Regime “Our friend Matt Whishaw is a rowing coach and he has taken us under his wing and introduced us to Newport Rowing Club. Manni and I hadn’t rowed before, but it’s a different kind of challenge for Paul because he’s used to rowing using a different vessel and a different technique.

“We got onto the rowing machines to learn posture, timing, and technique — there’s a lot of technique to it. Then he got us out onto the water in some training boats and the rest of the team at the club have been absolutely fabulous to us. Nick, Martin, Julia and Julie have been so supportive; teaching us to row and letting us use their equipment.

“We’ve got loads of improving to do and we have a couple of coastal rowing boats here in Ventnor to practice. We’ve been up and down the coast here,” he says, showing me the remnants of blisters on his hands.

On the Open Sea About 35 boats go out on the Talisker Challenge but after three or four days you won’t see them again, and if anything goes wrong with the boat the safety boat is three or four days away!

Interview | STYLE

“But there are commercial ships going past,” says Xav, hopefully. “We go in December, before the hurricane season starts. You take minimal clothing and foul weather kit. There are going to be sores and you do have to keep an eye on your personal hygiene. Going naked is said to be the best way!

“Rannoch boats are one of the main boat builders for the cross-Atlantic boats and we’re hoping to purchase one of their vessels. We’ve got to get a boat that’s about nine metres long, with two cabins (fore and aft) and three seats on board, big enough to lie down in and for us to all row at the same time. We’ll be going in a boat with a rolling seat and most of the time there will be two people rowing at the same time — two hours on and two hours off.

“The boat will have two solar panels and a lithium battery to power the water maker — we need to produce 25 litres per day, to drink, cook and stay fresh — and to power the AIS and GPS navigation equipment, the radio and anything else. We’ve done our VHF radio certificates — Manni and I did ours not long ago.

“The hull will pick up algae, so every couple of days we’ll have to jump over and clean the hull. They say over the 3,000 miles you could pick up two whole days of drag without doing that.

“You can get Marlin spikes up through the hull. One came up between a guy’s legs when he was asleep! So, we’ll have to sleep on Kevlar mats, and we have to do wound training.

The boys will have to work together and stay friends throughout if they are to make it to the other side...

“On the fitness side, we are easing ourselves into the training programmes, but it’s the mental side too. ‘Where’s Your Head At’ is a campaign we’re looking at — encouraging middle-aged males to talk about where they are at — it’s something we want to follow in the whole adventure. It becomes a very lonely place out there.

“Jason Fox — ‘Foxy’ from the SAS team on Who Dares Wins — was saying that they went across, the SAS boys, but in hindsight they should have been more open with each other. We’ll just use that phrase — “Where’s your head at?”

“We need to prepare for sea sickness to kick in and you have to make sure you’re getting the calorie intake; we’ll need to eat 5,000 calories each per day, and we cook on a jet boiler that boils 500ml water in 100 seconds.

Expedition food is pretty good — 1,000

It ’s a long way across the Atlantic and the boys need to raise £10 0,0 0 0 to make the crossing.

calories per bag — but each of those costs £10, so that’s £50 per day, per person.

“We’ll take tins of fruit. People say that they miss colour and noise and that when you come back you get the postadventure blues. It’ll take three years out of our lives — how will we combat that? We’ll talk about the process all the way through and hope that mother nature is kind to us. The wind is with us, so hopefully we’ll be surfing. The boat is self-righting, and we’re tied onto the boat.”

How you can help The boat will cost around £50 to £55k and those meals will cost £150 each per day, and they are hoping to make the crossing in around 35 days (so the meals will be over £5,000). On top of this are transport costs for themselves and the boat, and lots of kit to be bought. They hope to raise around £100,000 in total to make the crossing.

“Bauer Media are on board, who own Absolute Radio, Magic, Kiss FM and a host of magazines. They will interview us, and they’ve given us a camera and tutorials to build a documentary,” explains Xav. “But we have to raise the money for the boat. If we could get an upcycled boat, that would be good.”

Every donation, whether large or small, will help towards their goal and you can sponsor the Mermaid Atlantic challenge here: mermaidatlantic.com/sponsorship/ hiwwt.org.uk/seagrass-restoration theseahorsetrust.org/ sas.org.uk/ July and August 2022

23

Beautiful jewellery for life’s precious moments Bespoke Flower Halo Dress Ring Statement ring set with a large oval cut Ruby surrounded by diamonds in a decorative floral design. Rubies are July’s birthstone and represent a 40th wedding anniversary.

Peridot and Diamond Double Halo Ring

Yellow Gold Anniversary Ring

Peridot is the birthstone for August, represented here with a 6.5 carat oval Peridot encircled by a double halo of diamonds set into Platinum.

Just one of our dazzling bubble rings available in a wide range of styles.

Here we see Waverly, set with just under 1 carat of round brilliant-cut diamonds in 18ct Gold.

Ruby and Diamond Engagement Ring

Sealife Necklace Available from our showroom window, our Sterling Silver Sealife Necklace features Starfish and Shell charms. Price £45.00.

This elegant design boasts a round Ruby between two pear-shaped diamonds set into Rose Gold above a Platinum band.

Peridot and Diamond Necklace Perfect for an August celebration, this charming necklace features a pear-shaped Peridot gemstone set with diamonds. Available from the Serendipity Diamonds showroom.

Treasured Moments Engagement Ring and Wedding Ring Award-winning bridal ring set.

Choose from a wide range of diamond sizes for the engagement ring, in natural or lab-grown varieties, complimented by a matching wedding ring available to order individually or as a set.

Specialists in jewellery remodelling and custom jewellery design Browse designs online or visit our showroom Monday to Saturday www.serendipitydiamonds.com/uk chat online or call 01983 567 283

STYLE | Art

Make your own

Tic Tac Toe

T

With Lauren Fr y, Arts Educator

his summer craft celebrates the power of simple pleasures by combining the joy of making salt dough, painting pebbles, and playing noughts and crosses, a 3-for-1 marvellous make.

Painting pebbles carefully collected from beaches is a seaside staple, however with thousands of visitors to British coastlines each year every stone removed could have an impact on erosion, natural flood defences, and wildlife habitats. With this in mind, we can protect the environment and have fun getting messy by making salt dough with only three ingredients that can be found in most kitchen cupboards. With such a foolproof recipe and endless creative possibilities, salt dough is a crafting essential for a whole host of fantastic projects and makes.

Once you have sculpted your pebbles, patiently left them to dry in the sun, and painted them beautifully, you are ready to challenge family and friends to a classic game of tic, tac, toe. Some believe it is a tradition that dates back to the ancient Egyptians in 1300 BC, but the most reliable evidence discovered is from the Romans and a game they called ‘terni lapilli’ meaning ‘three pebbles at a time’.

26

styleofwight.co.uk

Materia ls Flour Table Salt Warm Water Mixing Bowl Acrylic or emulsion paint Paint brushes Sticks (optional)

Sa lt Dough Ing redients • 1 cup of plain flour (about 250g) • Half a cup of table salt (about 125g) • Half a cup of warm water (about 125ml)

Inspi ration When deciding on the designs for your tic tac toe pieces the only limit is your imagination! You could be inspired by animals, flowers, food or even members of your family.

Art | STYLE

Method

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

Mix the flour and salt together in a bowl.

Divide the dough into small pieces and shape them into your pebbles. You will need 10 pebbles for your game but it’s a good idea to make some extras.

Gradually add the warm water a little at a time, mixing with your hands.

If you are feeling patient and want to let the sun work its magic leave your salt dough pebbles to dry somewhere warm, this can take up to three days, depending on their size.

Once the dough comes together in a ball remove it from the bowl and knead on the surface to ensure your dough is smooth.

If you simply can’t wait to get painting, then pop your pebbles in the oven on a low temperature and keep checking them until they have completely dried through. (Don’t forget to leave them to cool before painting.)

How to Play For a game of tic tac toe you need to paint 10 pebbles, five with one design and five with another. For my pieces I have created a family of funny faces ready to fight it out for gaming glory. To finish off my set I have painted four wooden sticks to create the game board but you could simply draw the lines on a piece of paper or if at the beach why not mark out your grid in the sand.

Good luck and happy crafting!

Fi nd out more about Lau ren’s i l lustration work at stud iow ren.co.u k or fol low her on I nsta g ra m @stud io_w ren July and August 2022

27

STYLE | Feature

Silver Inspiration from the Sea Meet the ma ker Thomas P Cochra n Pictu res Ch r istia n wa r ren

28

styleofwight.co.uk

You know that the Isle of Wight is on the up when an international jewellery designer and maker relocates here from Mauritius — that jewel of an island with white sands and azure seas in the middle of the Indian Ocean — and sets up in the centre of our Island. Now at Arreton Barns, Thomas P Cochran’s stunning silver and gold jewellery, incorporating semi-precious stones, is inspired by the ocean but made to be worn anywhere.

Thomas Patrick Cochran moved to the Island in December 2020 after Covid shut down Mauritius. His wife Carrie followed him shortly afterwards, and their son, also Thomas, has now joined them in the family business.

Originally, they set up in attic rooms at Woodnutts’ Yard, overlooking Bembridge Harbour, but accessibility

Feature | STYLE

was an issue so they moved to a smaller unit at Arreton Barns until this beautiful space, that was formerly Farmer Jacks, became available.

Thomas and his family sadly had to leave their home in Zimbabwe, where he had worked in the gold mines and learned casting and refining.

“Mauritius was a healing balm for the family, having left our home in Zimbabwe,” explains Thomas. “We collected our original shells from the beach there and cast our first pieces.

We don’t buy in lots of shells, one shell can be used again and again,” he adds.

“Our sustainable trail is very important to us,” says Carrie. “We use recycled silver, and our gold is certified Fair Trade. All of our stones come from a reputable British supplier who knows the provenance. Our packaging is either hand-made by us, or from a company that use recycled materials — The Tiny Box Company — who were a Dragon’s Den company.

“Our ribbon for packaging is made from recycled plastic, and the furniture in our showroom is made from recycled wood and pallets,” adds Carrie, who hand makes the fabric pouches for jewellery items. The presentation of their jewellery is Carrie’s speciality, with pretty hand-painted driftwood-style boards of ombre sea colours setting

off the (mainly) silver pieces to perfection.

“They aren’t shells covered in silver,” laughs Thomas, “I get asked that so often. They’re cast using sand in our workshop here. We will be doing casting for other jewellers in the UK — we want to bring jewellery production to the UK, rather than overseas.

“We mould our jewellery from real shells; we have a very precious box of the originals, many of them collected years ago by friends and donated to us.

Our process of moulding from the real shell means we only need one.”

Each piece is solid silver and assay marked by the Birmingham Assay Office. “This year they are doing a Jubilee hallmark and in 2020 they had an NHS rainbow,” says Thomas.

This sounds like the ideal gift for a friend or family member, especially if they work in the caring industries or you want to mark the year of the Platinum Jubilee. Thomas also has bullion coins on sale in the shop — the ideal investment pieces that are also very beautiful with Liberty on the American five-dollar coin, Britannia on the British coin, and elephants on the attractive coin from the Ivory Coast.

A summer favourite are the D Shackle bracelets, called for their resemblance

to the letter D. These are made from recycled military parachute cord and stainless-steel whales’ tails. Buy one of their D Shackle and Anchor bracelets and a donation goes to the local southern branch of the RNLI. Thomas spent lockdown casting a full chess set with a travertine chess board. A labour of love, he intends to offer bespoke chess sets to discerning customers — and these could be cast in silver, copper or even gold.

Plans are afoot to run courses and an area in the shop is currently being made ready for this, with Carrie’s interior design flair. You will be able to come and make your own silver ring or bangle, or maybe a clam ring. An ideal hen party idea, or for a small birthday party or a gift to someone you love.

Thomas is hoping to offer courses in the ancient art of sand and cuttle fish casting too, and he might offer the option to encase Island sea-glass into a piece of jewellery. We’ll be letting you know more in our next issue of Style of Wight.

Thomas P Cochran will have a shop on the Parade for Cowes Week (July 30th to August 5th), so do drop in to see them there, or visit them at Arreton Barns to see their stunning hand-cast jewellery and other sea-inspired pieces.

“We love to interact with our clients and really value being able to offer a highly personalised service,” says Thomas. thomaspcochran.com July and August 2022

29

STYLE | Feature

On the road to Binnel Bay, I met…

The ei ght resident a r tists of Bi n nel Bay Stud ios a re open i ng thei r doors once aga i n i n Aug ust to g ive v isitors the cha nce to see thei r work where it is created. Style caught up w ith them to f i nd out more about th is i nspi r i ng place.

Celia Wi lki nson Celia’s exuberant canvasses fill the walls of her studio at Binnel.

“They’re landscapes but not always about the landscape – very much about me,” says Celia. “I don’t know what I’m doing until I do it. They’re semi abstract with layers of colour.

I start with broad brush strokes or splashes of colour and once you have something on the canvas you have a sense of perspective.

“I’ve been here for eight years – I like the privacy and quiet and the space,” adds Celia. Her large airy studio has tall windows to a small garden area, skylights, and daylight lighting.

Influenced by her surroundings, one of her paintings is about the erosion of

the south Wight, and others feature the strange yellow light we had when the Sahara dust was in the sky.

“I do a lot of horse riding, and this inspires me. The downward projection of the paintings is because I’m high up on a horse. Your eyes never stop looking do they. It’s an all-consuming thing being a painter, and I don’t work from photographs.

“Last year in October I had some work at Florence Biennale and I won a Lorenzo il Magnifico Award for painting.

“We (at Binnel) don’t all exhibit on the Island, so the open day gives Islanders the opportunity to see what we do down here. celiawilkinson.co.uk

Matthew Chambers “Although we’re a group of studios there’s not much traffic, which suits me fine. I bring my dog in with me and we go for a walk to the beach most days.

It’s a mostly gentle and calm place to work, especially at this time of year.

“The surrounding landscape isn’t integral to my work, but being amongst it certainly helps with the flow, so it does feed my work in this way.

“I make abstract sculptural pieces that aim to convey a beauty and serenity. I like to play with the three dimensions in

30

styleofwight.co.uk

the works by making exploratory forms that take the viewer’s eye through the layers, whether outside or going in.

“I’ve an exhibition opening at the New Craftsman Gallery in St Ives on July 2nd, and in the spring of next year I’ve a show planned alongside David Firmstone in the Campden Gallery in the Cotswolds.

“I’m also getting a 5ft bronze cast at the moment, partly inspired by my surrounding landscape. I’ve looked at the rhythm in movement, including the flow of waves. The work will be installed at Marchmont House in the Scottish Borders on completion.” matthewchambers.net

Feature | STYLE

Mol ly Attri l l At Binnel Studios since 2014, Molly was one of the founder members after having her studio at the Garlic Farm for many years.

“The reason it’s worked so well for me here is that we don’t have people wandering in all the time, so I’ve been able to work,” laughs Molly. “It’s given me a new lease of life.

“I’ve gone back to trying out all different clays and glazes. I’ve mainly worked in earthenware maiolica, but I’ve been

able to do a bit of this and a bit of that.

I spent lockdown doing a series of satirical plates.

“I’ve enjoyed the freedom to experiment and revisit different clays and firing schedules. I have an electric kiln and a gas kiln – these are for high fire reduction work. You get subtle differences of colour with the gas kiln.

“I still work with the maiolica earthenware with opaque tin glaze and painting on the top of the unfired glaze.

It has to be quite fluid. I’ve brought together my drawing with the pots.”

Molly originally trained with Bernard Leach’s son, Michael, and has been running her own pottery since 1982 — 40 years! Born at Knowles Farm, St Catherine’s Point, she has recently had a show at Quay Arts with her sister, Bridget Macdonald, who is a painter based in Malvern. mollyattrillpottery.weebly.com

Dav id Fi rmstone David is exhibiting at his home, The Orchid House, which is on the road down to Binnel Studios, although he did have a studio here and was the first artist to do so.

“There will be big paintings as you walk in, and more in the rest of the house as you come through,” he explains.

“There’s a new studio area where the

conservatory used to be, where I have paintings in progress.

the art critic, called me a romantic surrealist.

“I’m working on paintings for the exhibition I’m having with Matthew at Campden Galleries. It’s mainly landscape and a couple of seascapes.

It’s about how the paint is applied. You pour it and then pull it back and end up with a surreal quality.

“A lot of my current work is about parts of the world I’ve seen. I produce them on quite a small scale and then enlarge them in the studio. The one I’m working on at the moment is 10ft by 5ft!

“I paint the Isle of Wight but it’s not always about the Island – there’s incidents that bring it back to reality like a figure or an animal. Richard Cork,

“The landscape here is quite magical. I don’t actually go out in it anymore, but it influences the work in different ways; the colour and the atmosphere are a big influence – it is spectacular.” davidfirmstone.com July and August 2022

31

STYLE | Art

Jane Cox Ceramicist Jane Cox has been at Binnel Studios for eight years, moving her successful studio from London to the Isle of Wight, and exhibiting recently at the prestigious Ceramic Art London at Central Saint Martins.

“Working at Binnel Studios where everyone contributes different skills to make it successful was an eye-opener,” says Jane. “It’s not dependent on one person and we work well as group, which is great.

“My studio has an area for displaying finished work and a dry area for design and drawing. To the rear are my kilns and throwing wheels with sink and a spray wet area where I can be really messy.

“The main difference in this location is the light and space are superb, enabling me to work larger and expand my glaze palette.

“I’m an earthenware glaze specialist, producing unique combinations of glazes and colours. Moving to this environment helped really develop this aspect of my work.

“I used to work mostly in very bright colours, but have introduced subtle colours including variations of speckle glazes inspired by the textures of the shoreline and clear crisp night skies – there is so little light pollution here.

“The exuberant plants and foliage growing near here are inspiring prints, drawings, and new hand-built work which I will be launching at the summer show. This is experimental work using the clay as a decorative motif, so they are more personal and focus more on form.” janecoxceramics.com

From Steephill Cove around to the Needles in particular – I don’t think there’s anywhere else quite like it.

“There’s a special energy here with the setting and with the other artists. Even on the drive down here. You feel like you’re entering another world – quiet and calm. It’s lovely.

Ama nda W heeler Amanda has been at Binnel for five years, painting mainly semi-abstract coastal scenes, and she lives just up the coast at Steephill Cove.

“It’s all about the sea for me, and it really influences me and my work,” explains Amanda. “It’s impossible not to be inspired by it and this particular part of the Island has a magnetic draw.

32

styleofwight.co.uk

“I always start with a sketch to get the basics and tonal values and then I add a bit of colour. Then I bring those sketches here to the studio. I’m really drawn to blues and greens.

“When I first started painting, I was living in central southwest France, but it wasn’t until I moved back to England that I was truly inspired, as I missed the coastline and the water – it’s an Island thing perhaps?

“Every October I go to North Cornwall with a bunch of artists where the landscape is different – majestic and dramatic. I do love to travel.”

Amanda exhibits on the Island at Seaview Art Gallery. See her work at instagram.com/coveart_ajw and seaviewart.co.uk/artists/amanda-wheeler

Art | STYLE

Sue Pa raskeva Although porcelain artist Sue has a studio in Ryde, she took on a space in Binnel Studios so that she could build an outdoor kiln, which she first fired in during May last year.

“The wood-fired kiln will be moving my work forward,” she explains. “I’m looking to fill and fire the kiln – it takes a lot of time to get it ready. The Binnel space has given me this great opportunity; I built the kiln and then Covid came along.

“The work that will be fired in the kiln will be stoneware and porcelain and stand-alone pieces. The wood ash flies around the kiln coating all the work.

The stand-alone pieces won’t be glazed but will be finished by the firing. They’ll have speckles and shine in places, and pinks and apricots. Because of the direction of the flame, it leaves its trace and shows the route of the flame through the kiln.

“I will be presenting my Smashing Performance for Ventnor Fringe on Wednesday July 27th at 8pm in St Catherine’s Church. I dramatically alter my work in a creative way, which is how they get their cracks. This will be accompanied by Kyle Abram playing minimal piano music.

“I have performed at the Saatchi Gallery and for London Craft Week this May. I’ve been doing it for years – it offers an insight into my practice and the audience is visibly moved.” sueparaskeva.co.uk

Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, in Grayson Perry’s marvellous curated room IV. Recent paintings include large canvasses of carousels and ships at night, with lit up windows and beautiful multi-coloured skies, reflected in the waters around them.

“I love looking at the ships and getting a new perspective on them from here.

It makes me feel connected to the world, wondering where they are going, and thinking about the journeys people make. I have painted cruise ships against backdrops of Norwegian fjords (my grandmother was Norwegian).

Sadie Tierney Painter and printmaker Sadie Tierney recently brought her etching press and Intaglio print making to Binnel Bay Studios.

“I moved in in March and I’ve been very productive since, working on painted commissions and making work for the London Original Print Fair,” says Sadie who currently has a woodcut in the

“I’m currently drawing woodlands and waterfalls for a new body of work based on the beautiful landscape around St. Lawrence. I feel like my immediate surroundings are going to become more prominent in my work and it’s fabulous to be working in this studio group, full of inspiring painters and ceramicists.” sadietierney.co.uk Instagram @sadie_tierney July and August 2022

33

SINCE

2012

IG

and Dinners W

RI

W

B

F E, ISLE O

EACH H E B UT

Telephone: 01983 874270

The Beach Hut Seafood Bar & Kitchen For delivery orders please text 07832 127737

HT

M BE

B

DG

TH

CATERING Private Parties

SINCE

2012 HT

SE

2012

R

M BE

BEACH HUT RI

SINCE

BA

THE

D

IG

ITCHEN AN D K

AF

OO

DG

F E, ISLE O

Bringing great food to you.

Bringing great food to you.

wake buffets, small wedding breakfasts, family high teas, themed tea parties, private homecooked suppers, lunch parties, children’s tea parties, hen parties, drinks receptio canapés and fizz, cookery demonstrations, cookery classes.

Forelands Beach, Forelands Field Road, Isle of Wight, PO35 5TR A little seafood cafe right on the beach atBembridge, Forelands, Bembridge, Isle of Wight

Call Emma on 07832 127 737 to discuss your requirements

www.thebeachhutbembridge.co.uk

Call Emma on Fresh local seafood, crab & lobster platters are our speciality. Reached down stairs. www.isleofwightbeachcafe.co.uk/delivery-menu.pdf thebeachhutbembridge 07832 127 737 Fantastic beach view over Bembridge Ledge and Culver. to discuss your requirements.

All outdoor seating. Dog friendly. Live music Sat & Sun afternoons June - Aug Seasonal cafe Open 10am - 5pm, dry days March to Sept See website for more info and to make a reservation www.thebeachhutbembridge.co.uk Tel: 01983 874270

thebeachhutbembridge

EQUIPMENT RENTAL • TUITION • ADVENTURES ON AND OFF THE WATER FIN D US ON THE DUVER ST. HELENS ISLE OF WIGHT PO33 1YB

KAYAKING STAND UP PADDLEBOARDING SAILING WINDSURFING MEGA SUP CANOEING BUSHCRAFT BUBBLE BLITZ 01983 875542

The Island is our playground •

hello@tackt-isle.co.uk

•

www.tackt-isle.co.uk

Art | STYLE

Style spectrum Sam Scadgell

Sam was captivated by photography from a young age, studying the subject at school and then going on to gain a degree in Design and Photography at Plymouth University.

He is now a full-time professional photographer based on the Isle of Wight.

“The amazing proximity of the south and north coasts of Devon/Cornwall

Pippa has done over 500 consecutive daily swims since last year – she aimed to do a year but has continued past that now, Amazing!

inspired me to do more water-based photography and growing up on the Island means you’re spoilt for seascapes,” says Sam, whose muse is photographer David Parker and the likes of Wayne Levin of Hawaii.

Sam shoots on Canon cameras with underwater housing made by Aquatech Imaging Solutions. He uses D.J.I Professional Drones.

w w w.sa msca dgel l.com | Instag ra m: sa msca dgel l | Ema i l: sa msca dgel l@g ma i l.com July and August 2022

35

STYLE | Art

Above: Tom Court is a professional kiteboarder and he wanted some profile shots. This was taken underwater right in the middle of Freshwater Bay on one of the flattest days last year when the water was super clear.

Right: Growing up in Freshwater Bay, I’ve always had a very close affinity with the sea. This was early morning after prolonged NE winds, making the sea crystal clear.

36

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

Above: It was a special morning – very misty – and as we came around into the bay the mist began to lift and we were greeted by summer blue skies and turquoise water, no one around! The boat is modelled on a classic Riva, I did the shoot for the owner.

Left: From a young age I’ve been a passionate surfer – I started surfing aged nine. It’s time out really when you’re in the water with camera or board.

You zone out and forget what’s going on in the world and focus on the present. The golden hour makes for great light here.

July and August 2022

37

38

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE Style of Wight Children’s Writing competition winning story…

The Man Who Would Rule Nothing

By Tr u Crossley-Brook, aged 17 (15 when she w rote th is stor y) I l lustration Ju les Ma rri ner On the edge of a sma l l tow n, i n a sma l l house, i n a sma l l room, a w ri n k led K i ng sat on h is sma l l worn th rone i n a shadowed corner. T he wa l ls he had bu i lt a rou nd h i msel f were as cold a nd u ny ield i ng as h is hea rt. T he rema i ns of brid i ng row n w rappi ng paper la id scattered at h is feet, the pa rcel hav i ng been lef t at the door that morn i ng.

On h is lap sat a worn acoustic g u ita r.

T he brow n wood had lost its sh i ne, the stri ngs rusted a nd sti ff.

T he forgotten K i ng scowled at the i nstru ment he had once adored, h is ow n eyes hav i ng a lso lost thei r youth f u l g low, h is hea rtstri ngs now taut a nd u ng iv i ng. But the sig ht of it ig n ited the spa rk of someth i ng he had bu ried i n h is m i nd, someth i ng of a ti me long past. His f i ngers d ri f ted over the stri ngs i n spite of h i msel f. T he melody d ri f ted from them as easi ly as they had yea rs ago. As the ha rmony bega n to shape itsel f, he opened h is mouth a nd croa k i ly sa ng a long, i mages beg i n n i ng to f l icker i n h is head.

He chased a f ter the echoes of the f leeti ng memories.

As the weig ht of the yea rs l i f ted from h is shou lders, someth i ng sof tened i n h is hea rt w ith each word. A l l at once he was there a l l over aga i n. A you ng ma n i n the ga rden, entra nced by the woma n he had seen a mongst the g reat sta r’s rays a nd g reen blooms, h is a rms open w ide to her w ith noth i ng to lose. T he honeyed su n l ig ht embraci ng the trees, w rappi ng a rou nd her shou lders l i ke a del icate shawl; a sof t morn i ng breeze combi ng her ha i r, ca rr y i ng the a roma of the f lowers she held. He had opened h is mouth a nd sa ng when he saw her, for no words of the morta l world cou ld captu re what had u n ravel led i n h is chest i n that moment, what had bloomed l i ke the f lora a rou nd them. In that moment she had become h is world. His treasu re. His ever y th i ng.

Yet where was she now?

T he last wh isper of the sa me melody d ied on h is tong ue, the tu ne fad i ng as h is fra i l f i ngers shook , th roat too tig ht to conti nue.

T he room was no longer yel low bathed g reens, retu rn i ng to its cold stone g rey. T he polych romatic blossoms that had smel led so sweet, were replaced w ith the w itheri ng heaps of brow n that sat by the cu rta i ned w i ndow, m iserable i n thei r crack i ng a nd ch ipped pots. T he wa l ls he had ca ref u l ly bu i lt cru mbled a rou nd h i m. Sudden ly, the K i ng was merely a ma n once more. It had on ly ta ken the mere memor y of her for h i m to come u ndone. T he ma n lowly bowed h is head, a nd wept for a l l he had lost.

About the author Tru was born in West Yorkshire but moved to the Isle of Wight with her family when she was nine. “I’ve always loved reading and writing, even when it didn’t make much sense to those who tried reading my work,” explains Tru. “I am currently in my first year at the Isle of Wight college, one of the youngest in my Animal Management course seeing as I’m an August child, working towards an extended diploma. To help with my course I am volunteering at the local cat rescue centre as well as helping out in the unit on site, where there is a wide range of animals I get to work with from Chinchillas to Chickens.

“I was inspired (to write this story) by the Broadway musical Hadestown, a spin on the Greek myth Orpheus and Eurydice. One of the songs tells the story of Hades and Persephone, and how they have drifted apart when compared to the love they shared when they first met. I wanted to capture the feelings and image that the music and lyrics painted but in my own spin of things.

“I am in the process of writing an online story based on a TV show I am currently obsessed with, putting a spin on it with my own themes and ideas added to the existing content.

“Other than creative writing, I enjoy other forms of artistry, such as drawing and music. I learnt to play the clarinet with private lessons when I was 10, and since then I have also become quite skilled at the piano on my own with input from my school music teacher.”

For a l l he cou ld have been.

July and August 2022

39

STYLE | Food

MEET TUSHAAR THE HAMBROUGH’S NEW HOST WITH THE MOST

By Ja mes R ay ner Photog raphy Ch r istia n Wa r ren

W

ith the sun shining, sea sparkling, and seagulls calling, it feels a good day to head up the tiled steps and in through the mauve door of The Hambrough.

Waiting in the hallway to meet and greet (wearing an impeccably crisp blue checked suit) is Tushaar - the newly appointed Food and Beverage Manager.

Hospitality has been his passion since childhood, which is clear as he guides us to a newly laid table in the window of the dining room.

‘Growing up, dad worked for Air Mauritius as a pilot, travelling the world, staying in international hotels, and sometimes taking me along with him.

Seeing how staff there went the extra mile made me realise that I wanted to do the same’, he says.

40

styleofwight.co.uk

Food | STYLE

Tushaar’s career began close to home, in the 5-star Maradiva Resort in Mauritius, before a move to the UK to study hospitality at Bournemouth University, followed by roles in London at Marriott Park Lane and the W Hotel in Leicester Square. Before moving down to the Island to take The Hambrough’s front-of-house reins, the most recent addition to his C.V. was a spell as Acting Restaurant Manager at Covent Garden’s famous Clos Maggiore (supposedly the capital’s most romantic restaurant) ‘but I realised I was missing the sea, coming from an island myself’.

Coinciding with Tushaar’s arrival, a new wine list has been unveiled, expertly pairing reds, whites, and rosés with award-winning chef Matt Tomkinson’s culinary creations. Diners who opt for the free-range pork loin with cider apple purée and Arreton Valley asparagus can enjoy a fruity Meursault to go alongside it, or those drawn to the roasted rump and braised breast of new season lamb

can try Les Fiefs de Lagrange - with hints of black cherry, crème de cassis and crushed violet.

Emerging from the kitchen, Matt brings dessert, a chocolate mille-feuille (made by second-chef Craig) with a chocolate cremeux, blueberry ice cream, and lavender syrup. He tells us: ‘The quality of the food and the care of the team is now matched by the new wine list. Also, with Tushaar coming on board, the dynamic has changed, creating a professional, homely feel and customers are already noticing’.

With that, Tushaar shows us an email from an American visitor that had just pinged its way into his inbox, and provides a fitting point to end on. ‘Back in the USA now we are still talking about your wonderful hospitality and delicious food. You and chef Matthew made us feel right at home and provided one of the finest meals that any of us could remember.’

The Hambrough Restaurant and Bar with Rooms | Hambrough Rd, Ventnor PO38 1SQ. For bookings please call 01983 856333

July and August 2022

41

Caffe Isola &

The

Chapel STreet

Roastery artisan cafe, roastery & independant retail 85a St James St, Newport

info@caffe-isola.co.uk Tel: 01983 524800 the home of

island roasted artisan coffee from the isle of wight

www.islandroasted.co.uk

S MOK ING LO B S T ER 2 0 2 2

‘Great British and Isle Of Wight ingredients, reimagined through a pan asian lens’

booking essential VENTNOR Smoking Lobster 01983 855938 Drunken Lobster 01983 852500 COWES Smoking Lobster 01983 240916

smokinglobster.co.uk

WELCOME BACK After a short break our Diners Club is due to return with some exciting news for an Autumn and Winter events calendar. for more information or an application pack please contact us on office@styleofwight.co.uk or visit

www.styleofwight.co.uk

HALE MANOR FARM, HALE COMMON, ARRETON, NEWPORT, PO30 3AR

TEL: 01983 527530 HARVEYBROWNS.CO.UK OPEN: 8AM - 6PM & 9AM - 4PM SUNDAYS AND BANK HOLIDAYS

Food | STYLE

MERMAID ZEST & TONIC Ingredients • 50ml Mermaid Zest Gin • A splash of Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic Garnish A slice of fresh lemon and a sprig of rosemary Method Pour a measure of Mermaid Zest Gin into an ice-filled glass, top up with Fever-Tree Mediterranean Tonic.

SUMMER

COCKTAILS Start any summer party off with a bang with these simple but impressive cocktails that are sure to wow any guests as we celebrate the wonderful addition to the Mermaid Gin family with the new Zest — already a favourite on our editor’s weekend shopping list!

ISLAND SUN Ingredients • 50ml Mermaid Gin • 25ml Campari • Top up with Orange Juice Garnish A wedge of orange Method Build your ingredients into an ice-filled glass and top with orange juice. Garnish with a wedge of orange.

July and August 2022

45

al

#su

p

SUNSETS & LIVE MUSIC

p

oc

com •

• ety af

MORE THAN JUST A PUB

tted to s mi

ortyour

l

AUGUST SUNDAYS Come and support our very talented local musicians every SUNDAY during AUGUST from 2pm

Sun 7th Aug - CLAYDON CONNOR Sun 14th Aug - JULES NELSON Sun 21st Aug - GREG BARNES Sun 28th Aug - BEN STUBBS

Sun 7th Aug - OLLIE DUCIE Sun 14th Aug - GREG BARNES Sun 21st Aug - BEN STUBBS Sun 28th Aug - JC & ANGELINA

01983 810616 theboathouseiow.co.uk

01983 882823 thefishbourne.co.uk

GREAT SEAFOOD WITH LIVE ACOUSTIC MUSIC



Visit www.innsofdistinction.co.uk & select which pub you would like to visit Accommodation Reservations - Book Now 01983 873572



Food | STYLE

A Summer of Food by the Sea Su m mer is upon us! Th row open those doors a nd d rag that d i n i ng table outside; noth i ng beats a n open a i r mea l w ith lappi ng waves as the back i ng track. W hat’s more, as a n isla nd qu ite litera l ly su rrou nded by sa lty seas, su m merti me specia lities i n ou r ba rs a nd restau ra nts ta ke a ma riti me tu rn here — from sa mph i re-i n f used g i n to fresh ly netted praw ns a nd beer-battered f ish to Isla nd-made ice crea m. W h i lst the possibi lities a re end less, we’ve gathered together a few of ou r favou rites, so hoist you r sa i ls a nd splice the ma i nbrace as we g u ide you th rough the best food by the sea that the Isle of Wight has to of fer.

July and August 2022

47

STYLE | Food

Ristorante Michelangelo — Dine like a Venetian Just a stone’s throw from the lapping waves of the Solent and Ryde’s historic wooden pier sits Ristorante Michelangelo, which has been ser ving the finest Nor thern Italian specialities for the past twenty- one years.

Whilst founders Anna and Dante come from the undulating hills of Emilia- Romagna, and Rosy originates from the mountainous regions of Veneto, they ’re cer tainly no stranger to Italy ’s

stunning regional seafood.

In pride of place on the menu (and an oppor tunity not to be missed) is the Capesante alla Veneziana — a Nor thern Italian dish of pan -fried king scallops seasoned with lemon juice and ser ved on a bed of spinach sautéed with garlic and Parmesan. As the name suggests, the recipe is a speciality of Venice — a city

whose criss- crossed canals meet the scallop - rich seas of the sparkling Adriatic.

If that doesn’t float your boat, there’s also the Branzino alla Mediterranea (sea bass sautéed in olive oil and white wine, ser ved in a rich sauce of tomato, peppers, and olives) or the Salmone ai Gamberetti (fried fillet of salmon with pesto sauce, prawns, and cream).

Mermaid Gin — A Hint of Zest Meanwhile, over at The Isle of Wight Distiller y, something new has been bubbling away in the shiny copper stills (and the hint of citrus in the air gives us a clue). Rolling off the production line, the new Zest Gin — in striking emerald green bottles — is the latest addition to their well known and sought-af ter range of Mermaid Gins. It combines fresh bergamot, grown in the walled gardens of Osborne House, with coastal rosemar y and an infusion of wild rock samphire to create a subtly sweet gin with herbal

48

styleofwight.co.uk

notes and a citrus zing.

With a crate of newly gathered seaside samphire under one arm and a faint cloud of botanical infused steam around him, co founder Xavier Baker emerges and tells us: ‘ We are delighted to announce the launch of the limited - edition Mermaid Zest Gin, offering a slightly different but equally exciting taste profile to our original Mermaid Gin’.

At the in - house bar, we hear whispers that it’s great as a refreshing summer spritz but, on the other hand, combining it with

Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic, a slice of lemon and a sprig of rosemar y provides a pretty unbeatable introduction to this latest local drink.

Food | STYLE

Smoking Lobster — All About That (Sea)Bass The Smoking Lobster on Ventnor Esplanade was recently the scene of much commotion and excitement - as lights, cameras (and a flash of leopard print coat) heralded the arrival of food critic Grace Dent and celebrity chef Ainsley Harriot. Touring the Island for their new More4 food series the pair dropped in on The Smoking Lobster to test out the selection of seafood and weren’t shor t of compliments (Grace described the lobster as the best she’d ever eaten!)

Regulars to this cosy coastal pan -Asian inspired restaurant won’t be surprised, as they ’ve been experimenting and innovating with the best of local fish and crustaceans since first

opening their doors back in 2015. Highlights today include tuna tataki with yuzu and truffle dressing, tempura lobster and Isle of Wight tomato Bloody Mar y consommé or the saffron risotto with Szechuan calamari, Cornish mussels, Katsu tuna and roasted langoustine.

Aside from the seafood, the chefs and mixologists at The Smoking Lobster can also rustle up plenty of fresh, fruity and flavour-filled delights including the lemongrass and kaffir panna cotta, the lychee and cucumber mar tini or the toasted coconut meringue - all best enjoyed from the outdoor tables watching the sun set over The Channel.

Bliss Ice Cream Parlour — Livin’ the Cream Over a hundred years ago the Isle of Wight was famous for its milk — with pedigree cows and lush green grazing combining to create some of the finest milk in the countr y. Today, a scattering of local dairies keep up this fine ar t — with churns of quality milk of ten heading out to be blended, flavoured, and then frozen into delicious Isle of Wight ice cream.

If you’re craving the crunch of a cornet, Bliss Ice Cream Parlour in the nautical town of Cowes is the ideal place to visit. Behind the counter, apron on and scoop in hand, is Dawn Tosdevin, master ice cream blender and head of production for three local brands — all of which use only Isle of Wight milk and cream.

First is Minghella’s, an authentic Italian ice cream made on the Island for over 70 years using an

original recipe from the Ryde based Minghella family. Then there’s Calbourne Classics which produces a range of small - batch, farm - made ice creams, whilst Isle of Wight Ice Cream offers a sweeter gelato -style sof t scoop.

Whilst it’s difficult choosing which flavour to go for, a helpful nudge is at hand, as Dawn explains that sales from three selected flavours suppor t local charities too. Doing good — with a Flake on top — is right up our street, so we opt for one of each: Calbourne’s Vintage Coconut Ice flavour (which donates to S t Mar y ’s breast cancer unit), Minghella’s Salty Caramel (suppor ting local theatre groups) and Isle of Wight Ice Cream’s Blueberr y Sea Swirl (which gives a percentage of sales to Planet Aware and their beach clean hub).

July and August 2022

49

STYLE | Food

Salty’s Restaurant — New Squid in Town From Salty ’s Restaurant, in the historic harbour town of Yarmouth, we hear news that the A A inspectors have been to visit.

Tasting and testing head chef Tom A xford’s distinctive dishes, they were seemingly impressed — awarding the restaurant its first A A Rosette for Cuisine E xcellence — quite an achievement considering they ’ve been open for less than nine months!

Today we’re in town to ask about Tom’s seafood specialities, and one dish the team seems

par ticularly proud of is the squid ink spaghetti. Described as ‘a voluptuously filling and sumptuous dish’ it combines al dente squid ink pasta with a generous amount of local white crabmeat, spices, and a green leaf garnish. And, if you were looking for a glass of something suitable to accompany it, front- of- house manager and sommelier Fran Ayling is on hand, suggesting the Kim Crawford Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc as the per fect match.

The Royal Hotel — The Plaice to Be A shor t, steep climb from Ventnor Bay leads to the palm filled gardens of The Royal Hotel where, just within sound of the sea, a seat on the terrace is calling. Over in the kitchen is Head Chef Matt Egan, sharpening his knives and preparing the seafood, dropped off by local fisherman Justin only a few hours ago — and knowing Matt’s passion for local produce, it’s sure to be a meal to remember.

50

styleofwight.co.uk

Quick to make an appearance on the table is the whole plaice with crab gratin (both caught just off the Ventnor coast), ser ved with Jersey Royals and some salty stems of samphire.

There’s also local lobster on offer too, alongside a scallop roe mayonnaise and local salad including Isle of Wight tomatoes and Oil of Wight rapeseed.

To turn the meal into a bigger experience, Matt and the team

can prepare a range of summer y small plates too, including star ters of Briddlesford Halloumi with beetroot hummus and rosemar y salted fries, or The Royal’s renowned Gallybagger Soufflé (as recently seen on More4’s Best of Britain by the Sea). Personally though, it’s desser ts that get our pulses racing, so the panna cotta with Mermaid Gin granita and mint is sure to be nex t on our agenda.

Food | STYLE

Yarmouth Deli — Your Local Prawn Dealer The many food fans of Yarmouth have been praying for a fresh fish counter to return to their town for the past twenty-five years and recently their prayers were (finally) answered. If you now step inside the newly revamped Yarmouth Deli you can’t fail to miss the shining steel counter, laden with a tempting array of the finest fish that Cornwall and the British South Coast have to offer.

Responsibly sourced, catches var y from day to day and fresh crabs and lobsters can be pre - ordered over the summer months too. If you’re the sor t of person who looks at mussels and monkfish with a sense of foreboding, fear not, as Head Chef Kevin is on hand with plenty of cooking recommendations and recipe suggestions — the ingredients for which can all be

sourced from inside the well -stocked deli.

Take the clams, for instance.

Kevin advises a quick pan fr y with shallots, garlic, and flambéed Sherr y followed by a scattering of shredded parsley to create a delicious star ter, or if you’ve plumped for some ray wings simply grill them with a lemon and caper butter.

The Boathouse — Fit for a King Finally, what better place to end than the patio of The Boathouse in Seaview, close by the sturdy rampar ts of Puckpool Batter y and overlooking the busy blue waters of The Solent. Here, the Inns of Distinction have revived their Seafood Royale — a classic of theirs — first devised during their twenty-five years running the rustic New Inn over at Shalfleet.

Made from the ver y best local fish and shellfish available

each day, expect an impressive assor tment that could include a combination of lobster, crab, mussels, oysters, and langoustines, alongside locally foraged sea vegetables and a selection of thermidor sauce, traditional Marie Rose sauce, and a chilli and lime mignonette. And, with the salty sea breeze gently blowing and a chilled glass of beer catching the sun’s evening rays, you couldn’t really wish for much more.

July and August 2022

51

STYLE | Feature

From Duck Egg Royale to Buttered Beef Crumpets: Introducing the London House Bistro

By James Rayner

For the last 180 years, London House has taken pride of place at Number 40, Ventnor High Street. Once a female-owned wine merchant’s (and later an Edwardian draper’s shop) its most recent transformation has seen Sally Cooper turn the premises into an unmissable culinary destination — and one which has just taken on a brand-new challenge.

It all started in 2016, when The Kitchen at London House set up shop in the smaller, left-hand side of the building with Sally baking cakes and pastries and son Benjamin manning the deli (... when not on call as a retained fireman).

From goat’s cheese and caramelised fig chutney rolled up in a beetroot wrap, to homemade Italian meatballs, their quality range of lunchtime takeaways seemed to be just what the town was missing.

Quickly they developed a reputation for (rumour has it) the best scones on the Island, with Trip Advisor reviews praising the cheese and onion pasties,

52

styleofwight.co.uk

and the window display of cakes, quiches and hand-raised pork pies becoming a must-see feature on any High Street visit.

As if that wasn’t enough of an endorsement already, last summer saw comedian Joe Wilkinson cross the threshold and Sally’s salt beef focaccia was branded ‘divine’ by antiques expert Drew Pritchard

who dropped by whilst filming a new episode of Salvage Hunters. Today, Sally leads the way through an arch in

Feature | STYLE

the wall (until recently bricked up) into the bigger, right-hand side of London House, which became vacant earlier in the year — allowing for the launch of her latest venture. Spacious, relaxing, and filled with light, it’s now home to The London House Bistro, offering a French-inspired artisan menu for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. “We tried to create something different, something not yet available in Ventnor and something that didn’t compete with the rest of the town’s business community,” she says.

Fluttering onto the table is the new menu, a collaborative effort between Sally and new chef Matt McIvor (previously Head Chef of The Boathouse in Seaview). Dishes to look out for include the Toasted Beef Crumpet - made with buttered crumpets, slow-cooked beef, bone marrow gravy, a horseradish crème fraîche and parsnip crisps (a personal favourite of Sally’s) or the Full English Breakfast which incorporates Isle of Wight tomatoes, wild mushrooms, and a duck egg.

Asked about the French vibe, Sally explains: “So many people described the deli as a lovely little French bakery and personally I love the Mediterranean attitude to food. I lived on the Greek island of Kefalonia for a while and love walking around European markets. So I’ve tried to bring some of that feeling and experience into the new bistro too.”

Often known to fire up the ovens and start baking at 5am, no one can

dispute Sally’s love and dedication for food. “My parents had a couple of country pubs in Staffordshire and I spent my formative years hanging around in the kitchens, watching the chefs. My mum was a marvellous cook too, which I think helped turn me into a foodie from a very young age.”

Now, with Matt by her side, and Lauren, Lydia and Kirsty taking care of front-ofhouse, eyes are firmly set on the future, with menus expected to evolve at both

The Kitchen and The Bistro. Renovation projects are also in the pipeline to open up a private dining area downstairs and (if all goes to plan) the garden too, by next summer. So, as Ventnor continues to make its name as a destination for high quality food and drink, we’re sure London House will play its part and we can’t wait to see what they’ll come up with next.

Telephone 01983 638856 Website. www.thelondonhousebistro.co.uk

Not to be missed: The Kitchen at London House • Salt Beef Focaccia - award-winning Island Bakers focaccia with layers of salt beef, mustard mayonnaise, gherkins and toasted Monterey Jack cheese • Holy Mackerel - smoked mackerel in a beetroot wrap with horseradish mayonnaise, salad and home-pickled grapes and cucumber ribbons The London House Bistro • Croque Monsieur - hearty grilled sourdough sandwich with gammon ham, Gruyère and Parmesan cheeses and béchamel sauce • Trio of Pâtés - including Sally’s famous chicken liver pâté and Matt’s signature smoked mackerel pâté July and August 2022

53

YE OLDE VILLAGE INN BEMBRIDGE

WWW.YEOLDEVILLAGEINN.CO.UK (01983) 872616 61 HIGH STREET BEMBRIDGE FAMILY FRIENDLY | SPORTS | LIVE ENTERTAINMENT | CURRIES | PIZZAS | SUNDAY ROASTS | TRADITIONAL PUB GRUB | REAL ALES

Food | STYLE

Broad Beans

By Wi l l Stewa rd, Liv i ng La rder

B

road beans are a real seasonal treat and the first beans to arrive in summer. They are abundant for little more than two months of the year so make the most of them when you can. They are an absolute ‘must have’ for some but still unknown to others. We always suggest eating them raw or in salads, yet cooked they go well with so many of your favourites and can really lighten up a summer meal.

When small pop them straight out of the pod, or when bigger take the time to ‘double pod’ and eat the bright green treat at the very centre of the pod. Enjoy!

BROAD BEAN AND FETA SALAD The fresh taste of broad beans contrasts with the salty feta, all set off with zesty lemon and mint.

Ingredients

Method

600g of broad beans (un-podded weight)

Bring a pan of salted water to the boil.

Drop in your podded beans and cook for a minute (depending on the size), drain, and plunge into cold water to stop them cooking any further.

100g Feta 1 heart little gem 1 handful of pea shoots Zest of half a lemon Olive Oil A few leaves of mint Salt and pepper Living Larder is a family-owned, Soil Association certified Organic farm. livinglarder.co.uk | Instagram: @livinglarder

Once cool enough to handle, double pod the broad beans (remove the grey outer shell) to reveal the beautiful green beans. If you have small broad beans you may not need to do this extra step – but we love the vibrancy of doublepodded beans.

In a serving bowl separate your baby gem leaves, toss with the broad beans.

Add the feta and then drizzle with olive oil. Grate over the lemon zest and season before finally adding the pea shoots and mint.

July and August 2022

55

T R U S T

.

K N O W L E D G E

.

R E S P E C T

Selling homes across the East Wight Take the stress us on 01983 out Call of moving this 874777 summer We'll get you where you need to go

TRUST • KNOWLEDGE • RESPECT 3 Foreland Road, Bembridge Isle of Wight PO35 5XN

tel: 01983 874777 info@clarematonhomes.co.uk

STYLE | Feature

Discover local produce and dining on a grand scale … at Har vey Browns Photos by Ju l ia n Wi nslow

Wa l k i ng i nto the new Ha r vey Brow ns, you a re astou nded by the sheer size a nd beauty of th is bra nd-new la rch-clad bu i ld i ng. Espa lier fr u it trees a nd lavender li ne the pathway to the front door a nd you feel as i f you’re ma k i ng a g ra nd entra nce.

Arriving through the doors into the food hall you are overwhelmed by the scale and range of the foods on offer, arranged on the artisan ‘floating’ and stackable wooden shelving designed

by Sam Brown, who also designed the serving counters.

A massive deli counter has Italian fridges displaying a beautiful array of goods, and the kitchen produces fresh salads every day. They have a large cheese section, breads from several Island Artisan Bakers such as Wight Sour Dough, fresh pasta and baked goods that can be cooked at home, every oil you could dream of, and a wall of vegetables in fridges.

“The vegetables are in fridges because it keeps longer, as they have no additives or preservatives”, explains Jenny Brown. You pick what you wish and put them into eco-friendly brown paper bags.

58

styleofwight.co.uk

Off one end of the food hall is the butchery facility, where meat is processed and then put on display.

Huge fridges line one wall and two dry agers show cuts of meat that are gradually drying.

“People buy a cut of meat and then leave it here, and pick it up 21 days later,” Jenny explains. “It increases the flavour and can be done for longer if you wish.

“The butcher will chat with you and advise you on what to buy and how to cook it and they can advise on marinades too or do that for you.”

Walk back via the food hall and you pass an open hatchway to the brandnew state of the art kitchens, which give a taster of what is to come.

Knowing that the Head Chef is Jay Santiago, formerly of The Little Gloster, gives you an even better idea.

A few more steps and you are in the restaurant and bar area, with terrace overlooking the farm lake. The cavernous white interior has huge windows to the tree-lined lake, bringing the outdoors in and, although it has an up-to-the-minute industrial style, there

Feature | STYLE

is a homely feel; with the Eiffel Tower Eames-style chairs in teal, blue, lime green and lemon echoing the lake, sky, greenery and the sunshine.

The bespoke bar and serving area, also designed by Sam Brown, is clad in tessellated birch, resembling the scales of a fish. Above this serving area hangs an industrial style gantry, and beneath is an array of mouth-watering cakes and pastries.

The rear of this area is the bar, with wooden floor, a Charnwood log burner and brick chimney breast, giving a cosy warm feel.

Outside is a large terrace overlooking the lake, which was originally dug by the family’s great-grandfather for irrigation, and the exterior walls here are clad in a warm yellow cedar.

Canada Geese were on the lake shore, and the willow and ash trees shimmered in the sunlight.

We sampled grilled asparagus with crispy egg, hollandaise, wild garlic butter (picked nearby) and samphire.

Asparagus is grown on the farm and the season finishes rather romantically at around midsummer (June 21st).

The crispy coated egg was cooked to perfection and was the ideal accompaniment to the grilled asparagus with just a hint of sharpness from the samphire. We also shared a crab and trout gravlax — a crab and apple mayonnaise, which could be spread on the sourdough ‘croutes’, which was accompanied by roulades

of thinly sliced cucumber — delicious and refreshing.

For the main course we shared a Fore Rib Burger and a Baby Potato and Montegnola Blue Cheese Salad. The burger melted in the mouth, and was in a toasted brioche bun with cheese, pickled cucumber, and burger sauce, accompanied by house slaw made with a citrus dressing (much nicer than mayo) and fries.

I had never seen a purple potato (maybe I ought to get out more) but the slices of it in the salad were as surprising as they were delicious, accompanied by fresh peas, broad beans, walnuts, and a citrus hispi — a sort of Isle of Wight version of a Waldorf salad and highly recommended.

Sam Brown wandered past and gave some info on the construction — he is the builder and designer of the Brown family, and his brother Ben runs the Food Hall and Butchery, as well as running the farm. Ben’s wife Hannah does the accounts and Jenny, married to Sam, is the marketing guru. Jemma Smart (nee Brown), their sister, runs the Café and Bar — it is most certainly a family business. Harvey Browns is

named after the Brown family and the Harvey family, who married in some generations ago, whose name became adopted as the middle name of each first-born son.

Built with the help of an EU grant, the building is also very green; they are part of a power network which is supplied by the solar park on the farm, and the gas turbines at the tomato farm.

Part of the gas supply for the turbines comes from the anaerobic digester in Arreton, something that the farm’s crop rotation supplies with feedstock.

Harvey Browns Food Hall and Butchery are open from 8am to 6pm daily, except Sunday when they are open from 9am to 4pm. Breakfast is served in the restaurant from 8.30 until 11am and lunch from 12pm to 3pm.

Cakes, snacks and drinks are available throughout the day. Monday and Tuesdays are ‘deli days’ when food in the restaurant is from the deli section – quiches, pies, and a sandwich-style breakfast.

Make sure to pay a visit to Harvey Browns to sample a dish in the Café and to see what they have on offer in the Food Hall and Butchery. You will be very impressed — we were!

Tel: 01983 527530 harveybrowns.co.uk

July and August 2022

59

Th e

Beautifully refurbished pub & restaurant, open 7 days Located on the seafront in Cowes Amazing views from our large outdoor roof-top and ground-floor terrace areas Steak, seafood, ale & cocktails with a view For more details see www.globecowes.co.uk Join us for the Cowes Week Finale Friday 5th August from 7pm

5 course evening meal Exclusive use of the roof terrace and restaurant, for ticket holders for the evening, with best views out over the parade and the Solent Live music Tickets on sale now £75pp Booking essential Tel 01983 632363 See website for our other offers and events taking place during Cowes Week, 29th 5.

July - 6th August. www.isleofwightstudioglass.com The Globe, The Parade, Cowes, Isle of Wight, PO31 7QJ, Tel: 01983 632363

Feature | STYLE

Now is the perfect time to discover Cowes seafront, with a gentle stroll on a sunny summer’s evening. A landmark on the parade the former Globe Hotel, dating back to the 19th century, is now an iconic, popular, waterfront pub and restaurant with stunning views overlooking the Solent.

The new owners have transformed the venue’s interior — from reclaimed, upcycled antique tables and chairs to feature pendant lighting, the best-kept secret being the rooftop lounge terrace, where you can enjoy a glass of champagne or a cocktail while watching the yachts sail by. The menu showcases fresh local ingredients from local suppliers, with all their meat reared on the Isle of Wight.

A few of our favourite dishes you can enjoy at The Globe include the starter of pan-fried scallops which sit on a flavoursome pea purée with Isle of Wight asparagus, garnished with garlic and pickled shallots.

We recommend you try one of the evening main courses served on a sizzling volcanic rock — the 8oz fillet steak, lean from the tenderloin, is seasoned in the kitchen and seared on top then brought to your table to cook exactly how you like it. Pair up with your favourite side and dipping sauce — or upgrade and make it a ‘surf & turf’ with scallops or prawns.

Speciality steaks are also available, dry-aged in the in-house meat aging fridge using Himalayan salt, a process which greatly enhances the flavour.

Tempting dessert options include a zesty lime tart accompanied with coconut ice cream and a delicious white & dark chocolate terrine served with strawberries and shortbread.

A varied lunch menu is served daily with choices including the classic fish finger ciabatta, crab on fries, and seared tuna with charred sprouting broccoli and Korean sauce.

Open daily; you can enjoy breakfast 9am-11.30am, Lunch 12pm-3pm and an evening menu 5.30pm-8.30pm.

For bookings or to hire the venue 01983 632363 www.globecowes.co.uk (why not also try the sister pub/restaurants: The Red Lion in Freshwater and The Wheatsheaf in Yarmouth).

See more at www.gloryartglass.com July and August 2022

61

Casual Dinning

Brunch and Dinner

Cosy Atmosphere

Perfect for any occasion

Handcrafted Cocktails

Booking Advisable

Local Produce

Connect with us

Book your table now (01983) 855988 cantina.ventnor@gmail.com

Catering for 2-20 people Celebrating birthdays, bridal parties, anniversaries, baby showers and lunches with a difference.

THE ISLANDS BOUTIQUE PICNIC COMPANY

tel. 01983 722 629 lauren@bohocartel.co.uk bohocartel.co.uk

Food | STYLE

Taste Luxury Afloat Aboard Yar mouth Barbers’ Cigar and Whisky Barge

N

ot exactly a barge, more of a luxury yacht, the aptly named Lucky Ash is Yarmouth Barbers and Connoisseurs’ sophisticated venue for partaking in fine wines, handselected whiskies, and the best cigars.

You can hire the Lucky Ash for your tasting — perhaps the ideal groom party before your wedding. Or these tastings can be brought to you on your yacht or to your home or holiday cottage.

The Cigar Experience, which is from £65 per person, with a minimum of four guests, offers a Davidoff new world cigar experience. There is one 20-minute introductory smoke followed by a longer, more complex evolution.

Very importantly, they offer the place to smoke your cigars: your yacht or the Lucky Ash. Your curated experience will last three hours to ensure you thoroughly savour your smokes.

The Wine, Whisky AND Cigar Experience is from £80 per person, with a minimum 4 guests, and extends the wine or whisky experience for discerning customers to enjoy some of their finest Habanos Cuban or Davidoff New World cigars. Again, you can choose your own yacht or the Lucky Ash as the venue.

These cigars are paired with a handselected accompaniment of wine and whisky and all the cigars are served out of their humidor to keep them in optimum condition until you are ready to smoke them. They can also offer

you a cigar package for your wedding or private event, please get in touch via email or telephone to arrange.

The Private Yacht Tasting experience is from £45pp, with a minimum of four guests, and is something a little more personal and familiar. They now bring the tasting experience directly to you!

They will come to your yacht or private venue with either wine or whisky and guide you through a truly exquisite experience.

Why not have one of their tastings the next time you are getting together with close friends and make it a truly memorable experience! Five of the best wines from around the world will be available for you to taste, or five of their hand-selected single malts from around Scotland.

If you are planning a day at the races, a visit to Glyndebourne, or just a picnic by the sea, Yarmouth Barbers and Connoisseurs can offer specially selected wines and paired cheeses for elegance on the go for your outing.

They will lovingly select your tipple from their wide selection of exquisite wines from around the world, match them with some delicious cheeses and prepare a bespoke takeaway hamper for your relaxing day trip, either on the beach or on your boat. Indeed, who cares where it is when it looks (and tastes) this good! theyarmouthbarbersandconnoisseurs.com/experiences

July and August 2022

63

STYLE | Feature

Style of Wight Discovers WHAT’S BLOSSOMING AT GUNWHARF QUAYS THIS SUMMER

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Portsmouth’s Historic Naval Dockyard, Gunwharf Quays, consisting of over 90 outlet stores and over 30 restaurants, cafés, and bars, is high on our recommendations list for a day trip or weekend visit this summer.

Firstly, when it comes to dining out, you’re spoilt for choice as Gunwharf really does have something to suit every taste. Style of Wight opted for table reservations at Raymond Blanc’s authentic French brasserie — Brasserie

64

styleofwight.co.uk

Blanc. We were warmly welcomed into the relaxed brasserie and shown past the open kitchen with a team of talented chefs perfecting the mouthwatering dishes before us. Heading straight to their seasonal menu, we enjoyed the grilled asparagus to start which came with a flavoursome cauliflower and courgette chilli crumble and a soft Burford Brown poached egg. For a main course, we absolutely have to recommend the smoked pork belly, topped with crunchy strips of

crackling and served with poached pink champagne rhubarb, sautéed potatoes, and hispi cabbage.

If the food alone isn’t enough to tempt you for a day across the water to the South’s leading designer shopping outlet, with summer officially here and the weather improving, a yellowthemed summer lounge and an array of floral displays have bloomed at Gunwharf, designed to provide a creative backdrop and inspire moments while shopping. Created by Kit &

Feature | STYLE

Caboodle and Shilpa Reddy Flowers Designs, the stunning exhibits are on display to enjoy throughout the summer months until 2nd September. Capture picture-perfect moments in front of an arrangement of stunning eye-catching displays all bursting with flowers, including a traditional telephone box, oversized flowerpots, and a classic VW campervan which is selling prosecco each day. In addition, a summer lounge has also sprung up at the outlet in Central Square, providing a picturesque chill out space to relax and enjoy.

“With summer on its way, we wanted to offer an opportunity for our guests to re-engage with friends and family and enjoy some floral fun, which is exactly what we hope Blossoming at Gunwharf Quays will bring,” says Yvonne Clay, Centre Director for Gunwharf Quays.

residents — meaning we could travel back as foot passengers comfortably — totally bag free! Most of the stores at Gunwharf are participating in this new level of convenience and comfort, allowing you to ‘drop as you shop’ and enjoy a bag-free shopping and leisure experience. You can choose to have bags delivered straight to your home or a preferred location at a convenient time.

For full details on Gunwharf Quays’ outlet stores, dining and leisure options, summer floral displays and delivery service visit gunwharf-quays.com.

After a full day of shopping and dining, we were thrilled to be able to use Gunwharf Quays ‘shopping bags to home’ delivery service which is now available for Isle of Wight

July and August 2022

65

STYLE | Feature

A Contemporary Arrangement Not only does St. Lawrence have a wonderful coastal aspect on the south of the island, but it nurtures a creative hub with an annual summer exhibition at The Bunker Gallery, housed in a decommissioned WW2 radar bunker.

Home of award-winning artist Lisa Traxler, The Bunker Gallery hosts a contemporary exhibition each year in this experimental project space.

This year’s selected artist is Jonathan Parsons, a multi-media artist known for the diversity of his practice, which includes installation, sculpture, and land art.

66

styleofwight.co.uk

For The Bunker Gallery Jonathan will be presenting ‘The Black Drawings’, a series he has been working on for more than a decade. Whilst he was developing many other projects — some of which were large-scale and public — he has been slowly, quietly, and steadily making these drawings, all of which are shown together here for the first time in the evocative setting of the concrete bunker.

Alongside the gallery the studio of Lisa Traxler will open. Visit the Bunker Gallery and walk down through the grounds past sculptures to the artist’s studio to view maquette, sketchbooks, paintings, and sculptures in her unique Nissen hut studio.

Jonathan Parsons was selected for the

‘British Art Show 5’ (2000) and was one of the youngest artists to be included in the notorious ‘Sensation’ exhibition at the Royal Academy of Arts (1997), which toured to Berlin and New York.

Lisa Traxler is an elected member of the Royal Society of Sculptors, Royal Watercolour Society, and The London Group. Her solo exhibition ‘Time Traveller’ can be viewed until 8th October at Southampton City Art Gallery.

Entrance is free, parking is recommended at Binnel Studios further along Old Park Road.

Binnel Studios will also be holding its Summer Exhibition with open studios.

To find out more visit Instagram: @thebunkergalleryiow | @artistjaypee | @lisa.traxler

YARMOUTH GALLERY Contemporary Art & Craft

est.1997

Anne Toms - Resident Artist

Island & UK Artists

DISCOVER MONK TON ARTS

PAINTINGS PRINTS CERAMICS GLASS WOOD TEXTILES JEWELLERY

& a great little card shop find us in the high street - Foresters Hall

www.yarmouthgallery.com Have you discovered Monkton Arts yet? Apparently quite a few of the regulars don’t want you to, as they want to keep it all to themselves. How rude!

Towards the end of East Street, which is off Monkton Street in Ryde (the Solent Inn is on the corner), this bijou arts centre is an oasis of culture, good food, great coffee, and lively entertainment.

It has its regulars, and they are quite illustrious. Hunter Davis, the official biographer of Sir Paul McCartney, who recently bought a home in Ryde, is having a private reception launch for his new book in September, inviting the people who are featured in it.

“People don’t expect to find what they do when they come through the doors,” says Dawn Fidler, who runs Monkton Arts with daughter Jenna Sabine. “The people who come in, their backgrounds are just amazing and the local community around us is incredible.

“A lot of the things we do are community-based and we’re not funded, but we do have FOMA, which is Friends of Monkton Arts, whereby you buy a year’s membership.”

Along with the café and venue space, Monkton Arts has two studios that it rents to artists — currently Mandy Mangeter and Sandy Kendal — and two galleries: the Acon Gallery and the Sarah K Gallery. Barry Acon lent them the money to renovate the building, which was a derelict printing business. They also put on live music in the bar/restaurant area.

August heralds the judging of the prestigious annual MA Prize photography awards with £1,000 for the winner, £500 for the runner up, and £250 for third prize and an exhibition of the winner’s work. Entries have to be in by August 5th — see their website for more details. google.com/view/monktonarts

new wardrobe...new season...new you

ryde cowes online ryde 63 union street

63 union street

tel. 810581

123 high street

tel. 292966

www.mia-uk.com

newport 20 st. thomas square

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Laura Jane Holistic Therapies and Shop

While visiting Laura Jane for one of her wonder ful holistic treatments you must check out the pret t y shop in the reception area of their treatment rooms on Spring Hill in Ventnor, which is run by Julie Morris.

C

rystals are by far the best seller in the shop, which has lots of different types and a wide range of sizes. Buy a single small crystal to carry with you when you want to imbue its properties.

Selenite is perhaps the most important of all the crystals as it recharges your other crystals. It instills deep peace, is good for meditation, cleanses the auric field and can clear negative energies.

Health-wise it’s good for fertility, reducing hair loss, and creating a youthful appearance.

Howlite increases your awareness of your goals and boosts motivation.

It relieves stress and anxiety and aids in creating a feeling of true purpose – place it under your pillow to calm your mind.

Sodalite instils a drive for truth and an urge toward idealism and helps with good ideas, creative expression, and endurance. It can help with confusion, mental unrest, oversensitivity, and fear.

It also enhances self-esteem and selfacceptance. Sodalite is used to treat insomnia.

Choose the crystal that you are attracted to and read the card giving the properties of each crystal – it can be an eye-opener!

Selenite tower lamps are an attractive interior design piece, and you can recharge your crystals on them for the following day. Rose quartz is another popular crystal, and the shop has a large range, including a rose quartz roller for massage treatments. Laura Jane also runs crystal workshops.

Tarot cards are always popular, as are the crystal balls and there is an extensive collection of incense along with holders and burners, plus essential oils.

You might like to try one of their eco-friendly, additive- and aluminiumfree deodorants this summer – much better for the environment and for you!

laurajaneholistictherapy.com

July and August 2022

69

Handmade Jewellery Inspired by the Ocean …Made to be Worn Anywhere.

Visit us in our Workshop and Studio to see how it is all made.

Cast in Solid Sterling Silver from the mould of real shells.

Collections for both Men and Women.

Open 7 days a week.

ARRETON BARNS CRAFT VILLAGE IOW PO30 3AA Tel. 01983 685578

www.thomaspcochran.com

Know Your Practitioners Dr Kieron Cooney a long-standing practicing GP and Fellow of the Royal College of GPs Dr Kieron is also member of the renowned British College of Aesthetic Medicine and has achieved a distinction in his Master Degree from the Queen Mary University, London, in Aesthetic Medicine. Vicky Cooney is an NHS Advanced Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge of women’s health including menopause issues. Vicky also provides aesthetic and medical advice and treatments regarding skin care concerns.

PRIVATE GP SERVICES FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE • Clinical GP consultations • Minor surgical procedures • Cortisone joint injections • Well man and well woman clinics • Private medicals for DVLA and Taxi drivers and others • Prostate checks • Private blood tests • Vitamin B12 treatment Cosmedica Clinics is a CQC accredited and Award Winning clinic that now offers: PRIVATE GP and Medical services alongside its skin care and aesthetic treatments.

Provided by husband and wife team Dr Kieron Cooney and Advance Nurse Practitioner Nurse Vicky Cooney

PROFESSIONAL AESTHETIC CLINICS • Muscle relaxing injections for anti-aging • Botulinum Toxin for excessive sweating, teeth grinding etc • Dermal fillers • Prescription grade skin care treatments • HydraFacial™ treatments • LED Dermalux® Light therapy for skin therapy for acne, • rosacea and other skin conditions Cosmedica Clinics is a well established professional clinic who are privileged to offer advice and service to you in a safe, confidential and CQC approved clinic setting in the heart of Bembridge For an appointment or further details of our services telephone 01983 872456 or visit www.cosmedicaclinics.co.uk

M I N D F U L H Y D RAT I O N

By Ca rol i ne Hu rley I.I.H.H.T. A RT( R eg) W EL L BEI NG PR ACTITION ER AT BECA L M ED SPA A N D H EA LTH W EL L SOLU TIONS

Let us hel p you r ef r esh and r evi ve

Mindful Hydration is a new technique developed for stressed people to induce calm and increase productivity. Mindfulness is a form of meditation that involves you being aware of yourself and your body.

I

ncreasing your water intake is very important for optimal kidney function, reducing the concentration of urine which prevents the formation of kidney stones and other medical conditions.

Good hydration will flush toxins from your body and skin, aid digestion and improve circulation, affecting your mindset by keeping you healthy and energised and able to be more productive.

Mindful Hydration involves the technique of walking away from whatever you are doing and getting some water.

Simply breathe deeply and recognise the feeling of the glass in your hand, the water in your mouth. By performing this for 90 seconds, you can positively enhance your physical and mental health.

Adequate hydration is essential as it will improve not only your overall well-being but the appearance of your skin - dry skin is prone to wrinkle faster. Skincare products keep your skin hydrated, but many ingredients cannot penetrate the deepest layers. Essential

Oils are crucial to staying mindful as they are designed to relax and turn your skincare routine into a sensual experience.

Begin your day by using an ESPA oil enriched with essential oils to restore calm and balance to the mind, while leaving skin intensely nourished. Products with hyaluronic acid, such as the ESPA Overnight Hydration Mask give some of the best results, because hyaluronic acid holds 1,000 times its own weight in water.

Overnight Hydration treatment mask is designed to aid sleep and leave the complexion beautiful and glowing. A pure blend of Essential Oils including Cedarwood, Ylang Ylang and Lavandin calm your mind, whilst Encapsulated Lavender gently releases soothing properties.

For best results, apply a moisturiser straight after a bath or shower when your skin is more porous. Good hydration is your anchor of good health and easily introduced to your routine.

BeCalmed in the perfect place to help you relax, recover and feel good.

BeCalmed Specialises in: Wellbeing Treatments • Beauty Therapy Pre-Natal Treatments • Anti-ageing treatments Gift Vouchers are available at BeCalmed or on our website.

A tranquil oasis in the heart of Cowes 01983 296655 8 Birmingham Road • Cowes • P031 7BH info@becalmedincowes.co.uk • www.becalmedincowes.co.uk

Treatment Rooms Available Fully-equipped and professional therapy rooms are available to hire by the hour or on a regular basis.

Ideal for Physiotherapy, Podiatry, Footcare Specialist, Massage Therapy, Counselling, Group Work, Workshops etc.

For more info contact Bryan Hurley: Tel: 01983 243183 - Mobile: 07957 869 167 E-mail: bryan@healthwellsolutions.co.uk

Gurnard Pines - Cockleton Lane - PO31 8QE info@healthwellsolutions.co.uk - healthwellsolutions.co.uk

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Selecting the right SPF type for your skin

Whilst out enjoying the beautiful Island in the summer, we need to make sure we are protecting our skin from sun damage. But with so many SPFs on the market, how do we know which one is best for protecting our skin? Dr. Hayley Elsmore from The Cour t yard Aesthetic Clinic tells us more about the dif ferent t ypes of SPF and the impor tance of protecting our skin, par ticularly in the summer months.

I

t is important to know that SPF comes in two main types, chemical and physical. But which one is more suitable when it comes to choosing the right SPF for you?

A chemical sunscreen will absorb nicely into your skin so when you go out in the sun, the UV rays that penetrate your skin are absorbed by the chemical SPF. This clever cream then converts the rays into harmless energy, which is released from the body, therefore protecting your skin from sun damage.

A physical sunscreen does exactly what the name implies – it forms a physical barrier to reflect the UV rays and prevent the sun from penetrating the skin. Rather than absorbing into the skin, this cream will sit on top and will protect your skin as soon as it is applied.

So, it begs the questions, which is better and how do we know which one is right for your skin?

If you are looking for an SPF that absorbs into the skin quickly, chemical SPF is most suitable and is highly water-resistant, which makes it ideal for those who enjoy swimming, playing sports, and who sweat during the day.

People with particularly dry or sensitive skin are best suited to a physical SPF as it is typically less irritating and has a thicker consistency, which helps to hydrate the skin. Many brands have now formulated tinted SPFs to reduce the white cast these sunscreens can create, which also makes them a great alternative to makeup in the summer.

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin is so important for your skin’s overall health. Sun damage is the primary cause of wrinkles, sunspots, reduced skin elasticity, and pigmentation.

ZO Skin Health products have a fantastic range of SPFs with Triple Spectrum Protection against light and sun damage. At The Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic, Dr. Hayley Elsmore can help to recommend the best products to keep your skin looking fresh, glowing, and protected whilst enjoying the great outdoors this summer.

July and August 2022

73

B A Y L I S S

B O O T H

SUMPTUOUS BOHO LUXE MID-CENTURY SCANDI FRENCH CHATEAU VINTAGE FINDS INSPIRATION 01983 528600 @baylissandbooth

B AY L I S S A N D B O O T H . C O . U K

LUSHINGTON HILL

WOOTTON

PO33 4RD

STYLE | Fashion

STYLE SCOOP with Visual Impact

Now that summer is officially here you can breathe a deep sigh of relief as you realise that winter – all 1,000 weeks of it – is *finally* over.

The question is now what do we wear? It feels like so long since we felt the warmth of the sunshine and could attend summer parties and events.

Here at Visual Impact we’ve selected our summer favourites and top of the list has to be LINEN. Yes, linen is a summer classic, but it’s also tapping into this season’s biggest trends. Colour, print, and a bohemian flair continue to resonate.

Take this stunning Polka Arabesque Dress, a lightweight woven cotton sundress with cropped voluminous sleeves and a round stand collar. Fastening down the front to the waist with tonal coral buttons, this mid-length cotton summer dress is covered in white floral embroidery.

POLKA CORAL DRESS - £149.00 available from Ladies Visual Impact

Moving on to our next seasonal favourite, and it’s not only us who thinks this …the Pantone Colour Institute has once again elected WHITE as the trendy colour to wear during the 2022 summer season. Pure and essential white conveys the desire for simplicity and inner peace that characterises our times. Moreover, it is perfect for the summer season: white and chic is the colour of summer.

For us it’s all about the frills and embroidery detailing. Slot the Elana Embroidered Top into your summer portfolio to get the most out of its embroidered profile and frilled trims.

COTTON TOP - £75.00 available from Ladies Visual Impact

C o mp l e t e t h e l o o k f r o m t h e c o l l e c t i o n i n s t o r e o r o n l i n e a t : Vi s u a l I mp a c t L a d i e s we a r a n d M e n s we a r 21 H o ly r o o d S t r e e t , New p o r t | v i s u a l i mp a c t . c o . u k | @ v i s u a l i mp a c t

76

styleofwight.co.uk

Fashion | STYLE For the love of ESPADRILLES. Now is there a footwear style that screams summer more than espadrilles?! We think not.

The fibre sole is very soft and flexible, so they are super comfortable for walking. They look so chic and feminine when worn with a dress, but they also pair well with jeans and shorts for a casual cool vibe.

HEIDI WEDGE SANDALS - £50.00 available from Ladies Visual Impact

One way ticket to Greece please. The Biton Embroidered Cotton Mini Dress has a summerready cotton silhouette with embroidered details, short sleeves and square neckline.

COTTON DRESS - £135.00 available from Ladies Visual Impact

Menswear takes a slightly more playful approach to styling this season.

For an instant wardrobe update add colour and more importantly print!

Our favourite has to be PAISLEY. In the mid- to late 1960s, paisley became identified with psychedelic style and enjoyed mainstream popularity, partly due to the Beatles. Consequently, the style was particularly popular during the Summer of Love in 1967.

Limited edition selection available from Men’s Visual Impact

HAWAIIAN SHIRTS are no longer reserved for embarrassing dads on holiday. In recent years, these stylish shirts have become one of the most popular men’s summer style trends.

Aron Islands Multi - £99.00 available from Men’s Visual Impact

These NAUTICAL CLASSICS look great on deck or on shore. The traditional, hand-sewn construction guarantees genuine Timberland® quality and authenticity.

Nubuck Boat Shoe - £100.00 available from Men’s Visual Impact

July and August 2022

77

“Celebrating glass design and craftsmanship” Arreton Barns Main Road, Arreton Isle of Wight PO30 3AA 01983 716270 www.isleofwightglassmuseum.org.uk

Feature | STYLE

change the way you think. I think I feel more passionate about things now. I think as we progress in age, we become a little less self-indulgent and we become a little more compassionate and rounded.

Russell Watson

Plays the Woodland Sessions Style: We’re looking forward to welcoming you in August to the woodland sessions at Robin Hill. Have you ever been to the Isle of Wight before?

RW: I have played the Isle of Wight festival, the open air one (Wight Proms). I’m looking forward to this. I haven’t been to this location before either, so it’ll be a new one to me.

Style: It’s very pretty. It’s in a valley, so the acoustics are good, and you’re on the edge of woodland…

RW: I’d be disappointed I got there, and it was a beach (laughs). Mind you I probably wouldn’t be disappointed, but it wouldn’t be what I was expecting. I’ve got a big summer season coming up this year, coming on the back of Chicago.

Style::How was Chicago?

RW: It was a different beast to what I’m used to, in that it’s eight shows a week. It’s less singing but your focus for a concert, whether you are singing three or 30 songs, is exactly the same. The preparation is the same, the day pans out the same. With something of that nature where it’s so intense pretty much all the time, you live the show. It was great fun, but it was hard work.

I really did enjoy it, but I was ready to do something different now, and it’s nice to get back to doing what I do again. But I miss the intensity of it.

Style: You’ve collaborated with pop artists such as Meatloaf, Lionel Ritchie, Paul McCartney – how was that?

RW: It was great. At the time you’re not really thinking about it because you’re doing your thing. Definitely working with Paul McCartney was quite something, because as a kid I used to sit up in my bedroom with my little Hofner semi-acoustic guitar singing Beatles hits.

It was the Nobel Peace Prize awards in Oslo, and I did a little spot myself in my section and then did a big finale at the end with Paul McCartney which was absolutely fantastic – on the stage with thousands of people in the audience.

Style: You do a lot of work supporting charities don’t you? Is there a particular reason for why you support the charities that you do?

RW: First and foremost a lot of the charity work that I do I’ve done from the year dot, because I believe that as an artist I’m in a privileged position and I’ve got the opportunity to raise awareness very quickly.

I think you should give back. But also, I think I’ve probably got an affinity with illness and that kind of stuff due to what I went through 15 years ago and as a result of that I think I’ve got more empathetic.

Style: You had a brain tumour?

RW: Yes, I did, and it basically ended up haemorrhaging one night. I went to bed and didn’t wake up the next morning. When you’ve literally been on the edge, on the precipice of life, as I was and then you know after that operation, I had to have 25 treatments of radiotherapy, it does

Style: Have you met Jack Roberts, the young Island tenor who is supporting you, and have you any words of encouragement for him?

RW: Just get out there and enjoy it. That’s the thing. Certainly, from my perspective and over the years, the one thing that rang true with me was that I’m very, very fortunate to be doing something that I really enjoy. I love the sense of performance; I love being on a stage in front of an audience it’s a bigger adrenaline rush than you can ever imagine. So being out there a joy, it’s something that I love to do.

Adrenaline is Dr Show as we call it. You get to the show and Dr Show turns up. That sense of being at the side of the stage and not feeling great and then that adrenaline rushes through your body as you step in front of the audience and ‘I’m back in the room’. So just go out there and enjoy it would be my advice.

Style: I see on your Twitter account that you’ve bought a red tractor.

RW: We’ve just bought a farm in Wilmslow, we’d been looking for years, and we found this beautiful place on Congleton Edge overlooking the Bosley Cloud, a beautiful mountain. For miles and miles, there’s a tapestry of green grass and beautiful views.

I’m really enjoying it and it’s such a heavenly location, it’s a beautiful spot. We’ve got horses up here, we’ve got alpacas, we’ve got sheep, we’ve got chickens and a cockerel, three dogs, a parrot and a cat. It’s a regular menagerie.

It’s the complete opposite to the world that I come from, which is all quite frantic, and you’re surrounded by people and you’re constantly in buildings and hotels and travelling; and then back to this, which is like my little haven.

Russell will be performing at The Woodland Sessions at Robin Hill on August 13th – see robin-hill.com/woodland-sessions-classical/ for more details.

July and August 2022

79

STYLE | Feature

I Must Go Down to the Seas Again…

(John Masefield)

By Jo Macaulay

Photo by Theo Vickers

What is it about the sea that draws us to it?

Why do we want to live by the sea, eat by the sea, walk by the sea, and then take the plunge to swim in it, sail on it, sink into its depths to take photographs, or just sit by it on a sunny day?

80

styleofwight.co.uk

Something draws us to the sea — we feel better for being next to it, in it, or being able to see it from our windows.

If we can’t see it, we buy prints, photographs, and paintings of it to put on our walls. Artists and photographers love the sea — name one who hasn’t painted it at some time or painted something that is inspired by its waves or the animals that live beneath the surface.

Feature | STYLE water, but you can’t take the water out of the girl.

We are, after all, 70 percent water ourselves, and the world is 70 percent water too — strange that. This was pointed out to me by Mark Andrew, who has fished the waters off Ventnor, mainly for lobster and crabs, since 1990.

Mark Andrew yearns to go fishing

Photo by Theo Vickers

“The sea does control us, it’s a very powerful draw,” says Mark, who has been unable to go out and fish since a landslide at Wheeler’s Bay fell into his boat last August.

“It’s been a struggle, letting people down, and it’s a way of coping with life out there on your own. The sea is quite a daunting place — you never know what’s going to come up in your pots.

You must have respect for the sea — it can change in a few minutes.

Photo by Theo Vickers

Poets and writers are inspired by the sea. Tennyson, Freshwater’s illustrious former inhabitant, wrote ‘Crossing the Bar’ after taking his first journey from mainland England to Yarmouth harbour:

“Sunset and evening star, And one clear call for me!

And may there be no moaning of the bar, When I put out to sea…”

We are spoiled on the Island because we have the sea all around us, and we’re only 30 minutes away from it at most, from any point on our green and verdant little diamond. Even Newport, in our centre, has a tidal river that runs right up to the Quay — the sea comes to us.

I moved away from the Island for 20 years, and where did I end up living? By lakes, by rivers, and latterly in London, only a stone’s throw from Regent’s Canal. You can take the girl out of the

“I always carry a knife because when you’re shooting a line of pots, they’re going to go, and you have six seconds between each one (going over the side).

It’s quite a balancing act. I got caught by one but managed to cut myself away before I got into trouble.

“We came on holiday when I was young, and my asthma got better — my parents moved here for that reason. When I was down here my breathing was always better. There’s a lot to be said about the sea air — the Victorians definitely knew something.”

Mark is hoping to put his boat back into the water by August of this year, but he’s been missing it a lot…

“I go down (to the sea) and put my hand July and August 2022

81

STYLE | Feature

in it occasionally. You can’t just walk away from it. I went swimming last year with my daughter,” he adds. “But being a fisherman you’re on the water, not in it.

I have a different perspective because I know what’s in it and what’s going to happen.”

There are no such worries for Sandy Ciccognani, who has been sea swimming all year round since 2019 and has recently got a grant from the Health Lottery to encourage others to do the same with ‘Swim The Wight’. She started a Facebook group because she wanted to swim with other people, and it snowballed from there.

“Since I was in my 20s, I would see all these old dears who would be swimming in the sea and, although it sounds like a strange ambition, I wanted to be one of them,” she laughs. “I started in February, which is the coldest time to start.

“I was absolutely buzzing when I got out. I was only in for a few minutes, but it took me a long time to recover. I was shaking and shaking — in retrospect I stayed in too long — but the happy vibe stayed with me all day.

“The high is there every single time — I feel completely at home; I’m my real self. I don’t know what it is because obviously I’m not a mermaid! You can’t worry about anything else, being in the sea is when you’re aware of yourself.

You focus inwardly.

“For people who are caring for others, going into cold water gives you a respite from that — we have a lot of people who

have caring responsibilities of some sort. I’ve worked in the voluntary sector for 35 years, that’s my background, helping other people in different ways.

“But when I go in it’s for myself, even if I go swimming with lots of other people, I make sure to go in for myself.

It really does give people this massive surge of confidence and they go on to do their own things; some like to do physical things like gymnastics or dancing, but others have gone on to start businesses.

“There are some pretty inspirational people I’ve met since doing this. We have one woman in her 80s who says she wants to go abseiling. I suggested tree climbing,” laughs Sandy.

“Suddenly I’ve discovered this real love for physical activity, but it’s not too late. That’s why I’m passionate about bringing together different groups of people — you just don’t know what’s going to come out of it.”

A couple who also jumped in at the deep end, are Katie and Rob Jubb, who are in the process of training to swim the Channel for Aspire, a spinal injury charity. Their team, Aspire Gorillas (they had to choose an African animal) has three Islanders — themselves and Rebecca Stephens — and they will swim in relay from Shakespeare Beach in Dover to Cap Gris-Nez in France.

Photo by Theo Vickers

Katie has been sea swimming for about five years and Rob started during lockdown in 2020.

it very therapeutic,” says Katie. “Rob couldn’t surf as he usually does, so he turned to swimming.”

“Because we work in the hospital it was a really stressful time, and we found

“At the height of the pandemic it was my saving grace,” adds Rob. “Your mind gets a bit of a break — you can shut off.

We’re trying to spread the word about the wellbeing properties of cold-water swimming,” he adds.

Sandy has been working with Dr Heather Massey, who is conducting a small-scale randomised control trial focusing on the use of outdoor swimming to treat the symptoms of depression, pain relief, and other health issues.

“…when I go in it’s for myself, even if I go swimming with lots of other people, I make sure to go in for myself.”

Sea-swimmer Sandy Ciccognani

82

styleofwight.co.uk

“The media think they know because people have written in blogs and so on, but we need to evaluate it with rigorous clinical trials,” explains Heather.

“There is some science, but the media

Manni takes to the waves

Feature | STYLE

those plants and animals. It’s the discovery side of things; being able to share it with people.

“The ocean is the last frontier – the Wilderness.”

oversimplifies it, and science just hasn’t caught up.”

Heather does swim in the sea herself, all year round, on most of her days off from Portsmouth University.

She’s also done Channel swims and competed in the World Ice Swimming Championships in 2017, coming 13th in the world. She stayed in for 16 ½ minutes.

“If there’s any reason not to go swimming, a trip to the GP is advisable before you take up swimming,” explains Heather. “There are a number of conditions that can be made worse by immersion in cold water.

“There are two sides to this story — there is potential for risk. We don’t advise swimming on your own; swim with someone who knows the local environment, especially if you are a novice swimmer. Start when the water is warmest and go through to the winter, rather than starting in February. Water is at its coldest in March in the UK. “There is experiential evidence that cold water is helping with pain relief and some accounts that migraine pain can be reduced, but some report that it increases. I’ve been working in this area for a while. You have to have more and more reports and properly conducted rigorous scientific studies.

“If you were prescribed a drug the doctor would want to know that it had been through clinical trials,” she adds.

But what is it about the sea? And can it be tested? A lot of people have a visceral emotional tie to it, like I do, but could I sum it up if I was asked?

Chris Mannion (Manni), who teaches surfing in his school iSurf, sums up his connection to the sea: “If I don’t go on the sea, I’m grumpy; my wife understands that I need to have a form of exercise connected to the sea.

I’m a different person. I’m not obsessed by going surfing — I do lots of different things. Growing up on the Isle of Wight and having the water all around us is amazing. You can go somewhere flat and somewhere really bumpy,” says Manni, who has got into foiling recently.

“You look at the ocean in a totally different way. You’re going to places where there’s nobody — I quite like the experience of foiling when I am on my own. The foiling thing is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to learn. It’s been a challenge — that’s why it’s so attractive.”

I mention that I saw over 75 surfers off Compton during a brief lifting of lockdown last year, just sitting on their boards with hardly a wave to be seen.

“Whether surfers are aware of it or not, it’s that draw to the water. And surfers will always do something if they’re told they can’t,” he laughs.

Manni is taking on the Mermaid Atlantic Challenge with Xavier Baker and Paul Berry in December 2023, which you can read about on page 20.

To complete the circle of in, on, next to and beneath I spoke to Theo Vickers, who is an underwater photographer, about what it is about the sea for him.

“It’s about having this exotic world under the waves that people don’t access,” he says. “Lots of people have a connection to the sea but don’t know what’s under there — very few people experience

Katie and Rob Jubb taking the plunge

Theo also fossil hunts on the Island’s beaches and takes, mainly visitors, on fossil hunting expeditions with Wight Coast Fossils.

“The sea is revealing these hidden secrets eroded from the cliffs,” says Theo. “It allows you to step back in time. People don’t realise that these things are there, even little fossils, and are pleasantly surprised — and they don’t realise how addictive it is! They’re awestruck by the dinosaur footprints.

“The sea is the ‘what if?’ that drives you forward.”

Theo studied marine biology and works for the Antarctic Survey as a remote analyst, identifying whales and other marine mammals. With his work as a marine analyst his marine photography, and his fossil walks, Theo often has his head in the sea or on the beach.

So maybe we should come up with a saying to go with this phenomenon of the sea being such a magnetic draw that we ignore at our peril? Instead of saying “You’ve got your head in the clouds,” maybe it ought to be, “you ought to get your head to the sea!” Maybe one day doctors will be prescribing it.

NEGATIVE IONS Negative ions are odourless, tasteless, and invisible molecules that we inhale in abundance in certain environments such as areas where there is moving water. The pounding action of the surf creates negative air ions, as do spring thunderstorms. Once they reach our bloodstream, negative ions are believed to produce biochemical reactions that increase levels of the mood chemical serotonin, helping to alleviate depression, relieve stress, and boost our daytime energy.

July and August 2022

83

STYLE | Feature

DESTINATION

BEMBRIDGE Turner drew his first sketch of Bembridge windmill

Bembridge has always been the secret hideaway of the rich and famous, and even royalty has been known to drop in from time to time.

It seems to live on its own time and in its own reality, somewhat cut off from the rest of the Island; not only in its location but in its attitude to life.

T

ime slows down in Bembridge. Life is for enjoying.

The shops have lovely things to sell, the restaurants and bars have an upmarket quirkiness and there’s everything you need; from a fish shop, a traditional butcher, and a bakery to a deli, greengrocers, and two well-stocked Co-Op shops.

The village is divided into two areas: the main High Street shopping centre, and a small satellite row of shops and galleries at Lane End. It is at the turning into Lane End that the Birdham Hotel sits, reborn with its original name (from the 1960s and 70s) by the current owners, who took over last October. This Arts and Crafts style boutique hotel, with its stunning stained-glass windows, is a jewel in the heart of Bembridge boasting a 4-star AA rating.

Offering comfortable and stylish accommodation, great food, and a cool nautical vibe in the bar area and ‘chart room’ lounge/ dining room, it has a rather plush restaurant to the rear, with light flooding in from the feature skylight and windows to a pretty

Perfect locally inspired gifts...

84

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Mermaid delights...

At Ye Olde Village Inn

walled ‘secret garden’ — you wouldn’t have any idea it was there from the spacious car park.

The Birdham is a recent acquisition by the group, which includes the Chequers Inn at Rookley, Long Island in Newport, and the recently awarded 1 rosette White lion at Niton, all overseen

by Executive chef Steve Harris.

“From our wonderful locals popping in for their pints, to our regular carvery and restaurant guests and of course our varied hotel clientele, the Birdham has something for everyone,” believes General Manager Julie Burns. “And this is just the start…”

Just down the road at Lane End, behind the shops, is a new venture for Dr Kieron and Nurse Vicky, who rebranded their clinic as Cosmedica Clinics in 2019 and moved to

Bembridge is claimed to be the largest village in the UK with around 4,000 inhabitants, although those who call it their second home aren’t always there, and an area of just over 9 square kilometres.

Bembridge’s Weaver’s Yard in 2020 (after starting out as Cosmedica Beauty in Ryde in 2012).

Dr Kieron and his wife Nurse Vicky are well known and trusted within the local community in their longstanding roles as clinicians at the nearby St Helens Medical Centre covering Bembridge and the local area. Dr Kieron is the senior GP partner at the surgery and GP trainer and examiner and Nurse Vicky provides women’s health advice and NHS clinical support as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner. They also offer private GP services to the local community.

And free treats for Fido...

and treatments to lessen the effect of aging on appearance,” explains Dr Cooney.

Wend your way from here to Forelands Field Road for some of the best seafood on the Island at the Beach Hut Diner and Seafood Kitchen. Emma and Jon Guy have been serving seafood from their Mediterranean-styled eatery on the sea wall for ten years.

Accessed via steps from the car park above, this does not deter some sprightly elderly customers.

“We had a 97-year-old come here on two sticks and she managed to eat a lobster platter and downed three Long Island Teas,” laughs Emma.

“As experienced and ethical practitioners we decided to focus on evidence-based effective skincare ...from La Wode mugs galore

Barketing Executive Ralph at Clare Maton

July and August 2022

85

STYLE | Feature

Perfect mug from La Wode

Bright colours and eclectic interiors

Open to the elements, but fab on sunny days, the top deck has a Tiki Bar and the two levels below have jaunty colourful furniture and bright pastel blue fencing. On Sunday afternoons they have live music.

If you are down from town in your Bembridge home, or holidaying here and you don’t want to cook, Emma’s Events can bring a posh seafood platter, dessert, and a nice bottle of wine to your home. Or maybe it’s somebody’s birthday and you want a special spread.

Yup, it’s Emma Guy from the Beach Hut Diner and Seafood Kitchen and she’s a whiz when it comes to catering for small and large numbers. Crews

of sailing boats might want lunches or suppers, and Emma could bring you chicken and ham hock pie with mashed potatoes — yum!

Or you might want a drinks reception for 50 with canapés and fine wines, or Nana’s 90th in the garden with afternoon tea. Emma can bring the whole party, including the bar, entertainment, and décor.

Need some flowers to give Nana on that 90th birthday? Walk into Bembridge Flower Shop on the High Street and vintage flower buckets arrayed with beautiful blooms transport you to scented summer gardens. Locals love to drop in, pick the flowers they especially like, and have a bunch or bouquet made up on the spot.

Clare Maton can find you the perfect home...

Bembridge Windmill is the only surviving and working windmill on the Island and it dates from around 1700. It’s a National Trust property and open to the public Tues, Thurs and Sun from April till October.

Turner is said to have made his first ever sketch of Bembridge Windmill. after attaining her level 2 Technical Certificate in Floristry with distinction (A Grade). Outside are a selection of annuals and perennials with more tropical indoor plants inside.

Looking for the perfect gift? Just around the corner in Foreland Road is La Wode, which is jam-packed with

Or flowers can be ordered and delivered in Ellie’s cute grey van, which she uses especially for the many weddings she serves, especially throughout the summer months. All of Ellie’s flowers are delivered daily from her suppliers, fresh from Holland.

“My passion is fresh flowers,” explains Ellie. “The ‘Alice’ is one of our most popular bouquets with whites, pinks, and purples. “In summer I buy bright colours, but I also like pastels.”

Beautiful bouquets…

86

styleofwight.co.uk

Ellie opened the shop 3 ½ years ago

…from Ellie at Bembridge Flower Shop

Feature | STYLE

with viewings by Callie on her bike

Real Ales and Really Comfortable...

tasteful gift and treat ideas.

There is lots of stuff for kids — soft stuffed animals of every kind including Jellycat bears, illustrated reading books, children’s crockery, ballerina music boxes, reversible domino sets, and colouring books. For gardeners there are stylish aprons and cute hand tools, and for men, unusual pens, wine and whisky glasses, and Heyland & Whittle toiletries.

For the women in your life, you are spoilt for choice, with designer bags, jewellery, scarves, soaps, notelets, and scented candles. Other items include etched glassware by Four Hands and the Sea Kisses line.

And to wrap things up, you’ve got a huge range of wrapping papers along with an even larger collection of greetings cards.

All this shopping is thirsty work, so walk south down the High Street and you’ll come to Ye Olde Village Inn, which Jay and Kelly Chapman, Ben, Leon, and the team have transformed, especially since the pandemic when they built festival-themed ‘booths’ in the garden for distanced socialising.

The garden now boasts differently themed pods such as The Secret Garden, Bohemian Woods, and a walkthrough time warp archway to The Mermaid Pod. Inside had a makeover too, with various themed booths and real cask ales on the bar, which features the new OVI logo.

Steve and Julie welcome you to the Birdham

You might fall in love with Bembridge so much that you decide you want to live there. Clare Maton has probably the most attractive estate agents’ office on the Island and is almost definitely the only company that arrive at their appointments on bicycle!

Run by Clare and her daughter Callie, they are assisted by Ralph the dog (Barketing Executive and Happiness Officer) in their newly refurbished office in the centre of the village.

Clare’s career in the industry spans 25 years, and the team has a vast amount of knowledge and experience of the local area.

Clare says: “This is such a lovely friendly village to be working within,

There’s a pub quiz on Mondays; Silent Disco on the last Friday of every month; acoustic musicians every Sunday lunchtime and chef Kieran Chapman, aka DJ Kizzer, puts aside his chef’s whites to play funk, soul, ska, reggae and chill out sounds on a Sunday afternoon/early evening.

John Adriaenssens and Sophie Snowden have recently joined the team and aim to further develop this stylish foodie-based public house, with its strong community ties.

Nurse Vicky at Cosmedica

Thrills and spills at Tackt’Isle

July and August 2022

87

STYLE | Feature “We have a lovely loyal base of customers and staff who come back every year — there’s a real family atmosphere,” says Anna, who is head of marketing and nagging Ben. The Style of Wight team is off to Tackt Isle for a team-building day soon, and we’re looking forward to it — some with more trepidation than others! But the waters around Bembridge are shallow and warm, which makes it ideal for swimming and watersports.

Just hang around…

with a great sense of community, which I am proud to be a part of.”

And you can’t visit Bembridge without indulging in the watersports for which it is famous. Across the harbour, on the beach right in front of the old church tower on the Duver, you’ll find Tackt-Isle Adventure’s kayaks, SUPs, windsurf boards, and canoes, ready for you to hire and head off onto the blue sea. Or if you want to learn, head over to their base further down the Duver on the marina and book (May to September).

Opened in 2013 by Ben, who is also head instructor and driver of their iconic Land Rover, Tackt-Isle offers good value in a safe environment — they haven’t put their prices up since before the pandemic.

You never know what you’ll find

88

styleofwight.co.uk

There’s always something to discover in Bembridge, whether it is a new shop, a refurbished hostelry, or a new walk you didn’t know about. And it has a fantastic history — the people

A hermit is said to have lived in a cave on Culver in the 14th century, at the end of the cliffs in a cave called Culver Ness, looking towards Bembridge. Apparently, he predicted that the well at Wolverton would be poisoned. When a pilgrim from Jerusalem came to bless the well, the villagers are said to have murdered him. Shortly after, the French sacked the village and since then it has been lost beneath the trees of Centurion’s Copse. A subsequent great storm destroyed the Ness and drowned the hermit, and this was held to be divine retribution.

…or travel through time!

who have lived here, and still do, are illustrious, individual, often entertaining, can be mega-famous, and some are from the oldest and most titled families in the land.

Discover Bembridge and all its secrets.

You’ll be glad you did. thebirdhambembridge.co.uk cosmedicaclinics.co.uk or telephone 01983872456. isleofwightbeachcafe.co.uk isleofwightbeachcafe.co.uk/catering.html bembridgeflowershop.co.uk facebook.com/LaWodeBembridge yeoldevillageinn.co.uk clarematonhomes.co.uk tackt-isle.co.uk

At the very end is the Beach Hut

Feature | STYLE

To the east of the village lies the notorious ‘Bembridge Ledge’, a large, rocky outcrop which poses a major threat to passing boats, especially private sailing yachts. For this reason, an offshore RNLI boathouse stretches across the ledge. Built in 2010 with a complete new concrete walkway and a huge new timber-clad station, the interior is open to visitors on set days (and when the station isn’t on alert).

The iconic RNLI boathouse stretches across Bembridge Ledge

July and August 2022

89

STYLE | Feature

SOMETHING TO WALK ALL OVER: LONG LANE CARPETS & FLOORING

O

n the hills above Newport, just as the town gives way to countryside, lies Acorn Barn — home to Long Lane Carpets and Flooring. For local designers, renovators, and D.I.Y home improvers, it’s a one-stop shop for floor coverings — not surprising given their diverse product range and enviable reputation for customer satisfaction.

Inside, the showroom has had a revamp, with striking grey walls, industrial-style lamps overhead and, standing at the ready, a skilled team of carpet connoisseurs ready to make your flooring dreams come true — with more samples and swatches than you can shake a stair rod at.

Calling to us (or rather, glistening at us) from the moment we step inside are the shelves of geometric and abstract floor tiles. From black and white, to mustard, peach, and turquoise, these

90

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Heading back across the showroom we find the (difficult not to touch) selection of soft and textured carpets. Especially impressive are the sisal floor coverings, which are surprisingly eco-friendly. The fibres come from a species of Agave plant native to Central America, which are then woven to create a carpet that is natural, sustainable, and (eventually) biodegradable too.

Last — but certainly not least — we have a quick flick through the tasteful shades of thick woollen carpets from Brockway, a company that has been manufacturing in Kidderminster since 1964. As it turns out, the sophisticated slatey grey option was actually used in one of Long Lane’s recent local collaboration success stories.

eye-catching ceramic tiles, (some Victorian-style, some retro) make you wish you had a renovation project in need of a complete re-floor.

A personal favourite are the navy and white hexagonal tiles from Wiltshirebased Ca’Pietra (ideal for making en-suites extra swanky), with close contenders including the eye-catching lines from Bert & May, and warmer, vinyl alternatives (made in Coventry)

by Amtico.

As we pull ourselves away from the mesmerising tile section, there’s certainly plenty more to see. For lovers of wood grain and parquet, the handcrafted flooring from Ted Todd (made with European oak or American black walnut) should certainly tick your boxes, or for a hardwearing (and easy to lay) wood-effect floor, take a look at the luxury vinyls from Karndean — they’re so realistic it’s easy hard to mistake them for the real thing.

A period home in Cowes with a sweeping historic staircase requested the woollen Brockway as a stair runner, complete with shining brass stair rods.

Long Lane measured up, ordered, and supplied the carpets, before calling in Island Carpet Binding to craft the perfect bespoke edging. The crisp and clean result looks superb, almost as though the carpet and staircase were made for each other.

And so, from this project alone, it’s clear to see why Long Lane Carpets and Flooring are on speed dial for many homes and businesses across the Island. Whatever your budget and whatever your dreams, it all feels possible with them. www.longlanecarpetsandflooring.co.uk info@longlaneflooring.co.uk 01983 716717 July and August 2022

91

STYLE | Feature

THE ISLAND’S YOUNG PEOPLE SPEAK ABOUT LIVING IN OUR BIOSPHERE This article was written by Year 10 students at the IWEF’S Carisbrooke College: Grace Argyle, Jenson Large, Oliver Murphy, Devon Smith, Macie Walker, and Lily Tosdevin – working with Independent Arts as part of the Creative Biosphere project.

When it comes to young people, the Isle of Wight is commonly seen in a negative light — often towards the bottom of the league tables for education and wellbeing and at the top for problems such as underage drinking or smoking — but there are lots of positives about living as a young person on the Isle of Wight.

officer for the Isle of Wight AONB, and his team, give advice to people on how to live a sustainable life, which helps their own future.

One of their key goals is to connect people with, and help them develop, the environment.

Richard Grogan said: “It’s no good pickled in vinegar!”

For centuries the island’s contribution to Britain has been long underappreciated by the public — even though the first wireless telegraph had been founded at The Needles in 1897 by Guglielmo Marconi, pioneering communication, and the first hovercraft was invented at Cowes in 1955.

These became more apparent for many young people during lockdown, as more families and children explored trails and forest walks; experiencing the true feel of freedom during the cruel times. It motivated younger children to spend quality time with their families and some teenagers to get off their screens!

Richard and his team strike the balance of protecting and enjoying the environment. The advice they give is aimed at all audiences, helping people to look after their planet, whilst engaging with nature at the same time. It is suggested that they reuse, recycle, conserve water, do some gardening, plant trees and stop using single-use plastics.

Our history goes back further, as seen in buildings like Osborne House where Queen Victoria spent a lot of time, Carisbrooke Castle, and the ancient Roman Villas in Brading and Newport. These historical landmarks are open to the public and offer entertainment with activities such as watching glass making at The Needles, mosaic making and shield decorating at Brading Roman Villa, and tours inside Osborne House.

The AONB is also behind the year-long Creative Biosphere project, which is happening all over the Isle of Wight, to connect five secondary schools, five cultural organisations, and five local artists. Its aim is to help young people expand their creativity, inspired by the local environment around them. It also helps raise awareness of the Island’s biosphere status.

The Island is a unique place for young people to live. With its natural beauty, tranquillity, and a peaceful environment, the island is one of the world’s 700 UNESCO biosphere reserves.

Around 80% of the land is countryside, with its chalk cliffs and rolling downs, and rare animals such as red squirrels, water voles, and red kites. Island citizens and tourists can enjoy the great outdoors by exploring the wildlife, viewing the landscapes on the Island, and appreciating the surrounding areas.

The bid for UNESCO biosphere reserve status was led by the Island’s AONB to protect the Isle of Wight’s nature. Richard Grogan, lead

92

styleofwight.co.uk

Protecting the biosphere on the Island can only happen if individuals connect with nature, visiting the stunning beaches or travelling to the island as a coastal destination. As people engage with their local community, it makes them want to look after their home more. Living in a holiday destination means it is also very important that the aim of sustainable tourism is met, so tourists can then take in the beautiful nature on the Isle of Wight without damaging it.

The Cultural History of the Isle of Wight Biosphere The island has a rich cultural history. It can be found everywhere, with no limits to who can see it, from Saxon remains, to Second World War fortresses.

These incredible monuments allow many opportunities for young people to explore the cultural history of the Isle of Wight.

Our Biosphere Manifesto We think it’s important for young people to engage with the Isle of Wight Biosphere because people have been stuck inside due to Covid-19. Everyone should get involved with the world around them — to appreciate the Island’s fragile outstanding beauty. We should take the chance to get outside and explore the vast expanse of nature to improve our mental health. Sometimes a walk through a forest is just the escape from reality you need.

Feature | STYLE

TWO NEW GREEN COMPANIES YOU’LL LOVE

PEOPLE POWERED If you live in the Newport or Cowes areas, you may have seen our last issue of Style of Wight magazine being delivered by People Powered’s electric bikes.

Each bike can take up to 150kg in large panniers and they have four bikes and two trikes so far. “It was a good example of something large that — despite not being a transit van — we proved we were able to operate on a large scale,” says Project Manager Dan Stirrup.

“It’s a win, win, win, win situation,” explains Dan. “Businesses can see how it can benefit them, and it’s good for us and the planet. Our fundamental aim is to replace short journeys, normally undertaken by van or car, with the cargo bikes.

MODH DESIGN

Sustainable architecture and ‘green design’ are always at the forefront of Modh’s projects, be it a new build, an extension, or renovation.

Clients are always presented with considered design measures which can help reduce their energy consumption, waste, and building fabric. This may be through consideration of where and how the chosen material palette has been sourced and transported to site, and the ability to recycle the chosen materials.

Various types of renewable energy technologies can be incorporated, such as ground and air source heat pumps, solar photovoltaics, solar hot water, and other heat recovery systems. Within their work to existing dwellings or evocation projects, Modh Design explore potential fabric

enhancement such as alternative insulation methods, improving glazing, and incorporating smart technologies.

Modh’s recently completed new build dwelling, featured in Issue 75 of Style of Wight, was a combination of a well-insulated timber frame structure, incorporating more insulation than required as per building regulations.

In addition, the property featured high quality triple glazing, solar photovoltaic panels, and an air source heat pump located at the rear of the property, out of sight from the principal views. This project has an emissions rating which surpasses that which is required by regulation and is assisting the client in reducing energy bills. modhdesign.co.uk

“One of our rider’s partners says he’s the happiest he’s ever been since working with us, and one of our customers doesn’t have to bring his car into work because we do the post run that he had to do each day.

“Spinlock is one of our customers and we do their shuttle run every day. We do the IW Council’s post run twice a week, and we’ve done a luggage pick-up from the Yarmouth ferry for Tapnell Farm — we took bags straight to Tom’s Eco lodges and they went off on a cycling weekend.

We helped Care in the Garden to deliver their geraniums and we took a whole load of garden tools to be used at different locations around the Island.

“Our trial, which has now finished, was in Newport and Cowes, but as the year progresses, we will be expanding into other parts of the Island.

For more details see www.people-powered.uk July and August 2022

93

DIG FOR VINTAGE

R

Anne Ginger soft furnishings

With 40 years experience Anne Ginger and her dedicated team are happy to assist in making the right choice of soft furnishings for you, from helping you choose the perfect product through to installation.

Our service is based around giving excellent advice combined with quality products. Come and see us and turn your dream into reality.

Offering monthly painting technique Vintage lifestyle through workshops. Find out more in-store the decades, fashion, iconic DIG F ORV I N TAG E .Facebook C O.page.

UK and on our furniture, fabrics, The ceramics, Colonnade, Lind Street, artRyde, and classic Book a719433 painting Isle of books.

Wight, PO33 2NE Tel. 01983 Everything you need to create a gorgeous vintage look for your home.

The Colonnade Ryde PO33 2NE

experience with us today!

T 01983 719433 E info@digforvintage.co.uk

Due to Covid-19 the showroom is operating Monday-Friday on an appointment service so please call to book. info@anneginger.co.uk www.anneginger.co.uk

tel. 01983 407730

Feature | STYLE

WHITE ORCHID HOUSE Spring Hill, Ventnor

A substantial five bedroom property presented immaculately throughout with tranquil sea views. Situated a few moments’ walk away from Ventnor town this fine house retains a wealth of period, charm and character. The house has undergone extensive top to toe renovation by the current owner, who has made it a stylish comfortable home, whilst retaining and enhancing many original features.

Amongst the many shops and restaurants in the town, this property offers a large garage as well as off-road parking for one vehicle.

A self-contained apartment on the ground floor holds great income potential or a private space for guests to stay. The apartment has a separate entrance in addition to the stairs inside the property. On the first floor there is a large southerly facing lounge/ diner with the second bedroom. The remaining bedrooms are situated on the second floor, alongside the master

en-suite. From the third bedroom, across the bridge and through the wildflower meadow you’ll arrive at the terrace and cabin where you can enjoy the sensational sea views.

White Orchid House is a Georgian property, built prior to the rise of the Victorian seaside town of Ventnor. It is one of the original 5 Ventnor stone houses, built circa 1832, for the Vicar of St. Lawrence.

Many notorious people have lived at the property once known as Belle Vue Cottage, owing to its fabulous sea views. From the town surveyor J. Edgar Harvey who built the cascade, to Lords and Ladies and their servants, whose family portraits hang in the National Portrait Gallery. More recently, fashion designer Percy Parker and famous Jazz musician, Greg Foat, have lived at the house. The property was converted into a hotel in the 1950s and run by the Laugharne family, who renamed it The Llynfi Hotel, owing to

their Welsh roots. Francis, the son, built the original Chalet in the back garden as a photography studio.

The garden has been fully landscaped enhancing the original Chalet into a home office and art studio, for which full planning permission was granted in June 2022. The works included pinning the cliff, adding land drains and rebuilding stone walls with lime.

Balau hardwood decking and original Victorian wrought iron railings and flagstone steps lead you up the garden, from a private bridge to stunning 180 degree panoramic sea views.

At White Orchid House you will have all the comforts of a stylish, well loved home in a vibrant, convenient location.

For viewings and further information please call: 01983 855101 or email: info@01estateagents.com July and August 2022

95

STYLE | Home

Buckingham wicker Egg Chair £375

A spen 2m Fawn Casual Dining Set £1599

OUTDOOR LIVING with Busy Bee

S

summer has arrived! Have you bought your woven rattan-style patio/garden set for lounging or dining in your garden yet?

Busy Bee has a wide selection, and this Alexander Rose Aspen Rattan Corner Fire Pit Dining Table Set in Grey will even keep you warm while you sit outdoors in the evening — gather around the gas fire when the sun goes down.

The Aspen from Alexander Rose is a high quality yet affordable range.

Based on classic designs, they are made using premium fully welded

96

styleofwight.co.uk

aluminium frames and the synthetic rattan is hand woven to create delicate detailing. Alexander Rose is one of the UK’s leading garden furniture suppliers and have been producing this style of garden furniture for more than 10 years.

It is fully ‘tried and tested’ and is very suitable for the British climate.

Egg chairs are extremely popular this year. Featured here are the elongated Windsor Wicker Chair, which comes in blue or black, and the round-shaped Buckingham Wicker Chair, which is stocked in grey or black.

It’s been extremely hot in places over the past few weeks. Think about

investing in a gazebo, which will protect you and your guests from the sun, heat and, dare we say, should things not go entirely to plan, a shower of rain. These come in an assortment of shapes and styles, with and without side curtains.

Busy Bee will have the perfect garden furniture for you — just pay them a visit to see their amazing range.

Brading Road, Ryde PO33 1QG t: 01983 811096 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm Sundays 9am to 4pm busybeegardencentre.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Aspen grey 2.3m Casual dining set with firepit table £2299

Windsor Wicker Egg Chair £245

Highfield gazebo 3x3m £449

July and August 2022

97

STYLE | Home

HORNIMAN’S H ow O ne o f the 19th Ce ntur y’s B igges t Tea Brands Began in N e wpor t Words & Resea rch by Ja mes R ay ner I l lustrated by Ju l ie Sajous

Entering the house of any Victorian of the 1890s and rummaging through their pantr y, you would be bound to f ind a tin of Horniman’s Tea — the UK’s biggest-selling tea brand with products expor ted right across the world.

Tracing this company back through the previous sixty-five years of history to its very first tea leaf, a perhaps surprising Isle of Wight origin slowly comes to light. Whilst its first years of operation remain murky and mysterious, most sources agree that ‘Horniman’s Tea Company’ — a tea trading and blending business — began in Newport, in 1826.

At the helm was a 23-year-old Quaker from Reading named John Horniman (previously a grocer), who now began to sell 100% pure, unadulterated tea in sealed and labelled packets — a first for that era.

98

styleofwight.co.uk

Home | STYLE Previously, tea could only be bought loose, mixed with the dust, hawthorn leaves or even hedge clippings that retailers liked to add to make the expensive tea leaves go further, usually followed by some dye to cover up their poor-quality ingredients.

Instead, Horniman was making a name for himself with his reliable and high quality pre-packaged tea leaves, with packets filled by hand in a room over a stable and initially sold by door-todoor salesmen. As time went on, John abandoned his other businesses on the mainland (including cheese mongering) and focused on his Isle of Wight tea company, inventing a crude tea packing machine in 1840 and adding chemists, confectioners, and wholesale grocers to his list of approved sellers.

Six years later, records show Horniman was leasing two connected back-toback buildings in the centre of Newport: 28 High Street and 125 Pyle Street — and business was certainly brisk. Local poet Albert Midlaine later recalled the ‘shop was so crowded, I remember, one Christmas Eve, that he was obliged to dispatch his customers through the back way to Pyle-street, the entrance to his shop being quite blocked up by intending purchasers’.

Horniman’s Tea was taking off, his fame was spreading across the country and John had outgrown his Isle of Wight base. Operations moved to the capital in 1852 to be closer to the London Docks — the world’s biggest tea trading port — where John could often be seen riding to his warehouse in ‘full Quaker attire, mounted on his black horse’. Around the same time, The Lancet medical journal would declare Horniman’s to be the only tea brand free from dye, and with that endorsement his destiny was secured.

Sadly for the Island, there are no reminders left today of Newport’s connection to what was Britain’s most successful tea brand, with John Horniman’s original shop at number 28 High Street (just to the right of the Guildhall) having burnt to the ground in 1892, and no plaque in place (as yet) to mark the spot.

July and August 2022

99

Home | STYLE

A HOME BY THE SEA STYLING STUDIO JUTE INTERIOR PHOTOGRAPHY HOLLY JOLLIFFE DESIGN

Basket Bayliss & Booth £12.99

Studio Jute Interior Design began from a desire to connect our ever yday environments with the natural world. From the materials we choose to the way plans are orientated; we work to maximise light and air qualit y, incorporate natural motifs and textures. We prioritise creating spaces for shelter and social gathering, our thought ful user focused designs bring clients closer to nature; in turn, improving health and wellbeing.

We have curated the best of the summer inspired collections, available at our favourite Island based interiors stores. From the per fect biophilic inspired prints to recycled and sustainable fabrics - you can ensure your outdoor adventures are as considered as your indoor ones.

Happy summer x July and August 2022

101

STYLE | Home

Basket Bayliss & Booth £12.99. Wav y edge bowl Acacia Bay £16. The Forager ’s Calendar book Bayliss & Booth £12.99. Glass bot tle Hurst £8.99.

Linen napkin Bayliss & Booth (set of 4) £19.99.

Wooden bench Bayliss & Booth £22.99.

102

styleofwight.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Large basket Hurst £59.99 (set of 3).

Rat tan wine basket Bayliss & Booth £36.99. Green lantern This & That £35.

Green printed cushion Acacia Bay £35.

Yellow printed floor cushion Acacia Bay £85. Jute cushion Acacia Bay £65.

Yellow cushion Acacia Bay £22.

Picnic salad bowl Hurst £4.70.

Linen napkin This & That £26 (set of 4).

Rat tan tray Acacia Bay £45.

Fluted outdoor champagne glasses Hurst £1.50. Glass bot tle Hurst £8.99.

Large picnic plates Hurst £2.50.

Wooden ser ving board Acacia Bay £55.

Wav y edge bowl Acacia Bay £16.

Fluted outdoor tumblers Hurst £2.50.

Beige & cream blanket Acacia Bay £95.

Yellow floral outdoor blanket Acacia Bay £65. Cream recycled fabric throw Acacia Bay £95.

Picnic food Har vey Brown’s

Alfresco meals are one of the highlights of the summer season, capturing the spirit of Island living through shared outdoor dining experiences. Pack up a picnic, gather your favourite people and head outside to soak up the Island’s stunning scener y.

Green printed cushion Acacia Bay £35. Yellow printed floor cushion Acacia Bay £85. Jute cushion Acacia Bay £65.

Large picnic plates Hurst £2.50. Small picnic plates Hurst £1.60. Wav y edge bowl Acacia Bay £16. Fluted outdoor tumblers Hurst £1.75. Wooden ser ving board Acacia Bay £55. Beige & cream blanket Acacia Bay £95. Yellow floral outdoor blanket Acacia Bay £65. Picnic food Har vey Brown’s

July and August 2022

103

STYLE | Home

Camping is one of the best ways to reconnect, both with nature and those you choose to share your tent with. Without the distraction of technology and busy schedules, conversation flows around the campfire. You’ll notice yourself unwind as you slow down, when even simply boiling the ket tle becomes a ritual. Fill your camp with cushions, throws and blankets to maximise relaxation.

Garden torches Acacia Bay £42 each. Checked recycled bot tle throw Bayliss & Booth £55. Rat tan decoration Acacia Bay £18. Solar string lights This & That £40. Solar lantern Bayliss & Booth £29.50. Fringed printed rug Bayliss & Booth £110. Pink small rug Bayliss & Booth £22.99. Honey medium rug Bayliss & Booth £44.99. Seagrass circular rug Bayliss & Booth £79.99. Roll up picnic blanket This & That £60. Small basket Hurst £59.99. (set of 3) Rat tan leather handle basket Acacia Bay £55. Linen & cot ton throw Bayliss & Booth £34.99. Pink linen cushion Acacia Bay £49. Dark grey linen cushion Acacia Bay £49. Linen & cot ton cushions Bayliss & Booth £19.99. Wooden bench Bayliss & Booth £22.99.

Terracot ta candle Acacia Bay £22. Cream Enamel Vase Hurst £7.99. Jute shopper Bayliss & Booth £39.50. Jute striped cushion Bayliss & Booth £29.99. Ar tif icial plant Hurst £9.50. Tropical palms Acacia Bay £22 each.

104

styleofwight.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Checked recycled bot tle throw Bayliss & Booth £55. Rat tan decoration Acacia Bay £18. Solar string lights This & That £40. Fringed printed rug Bayliss & Booth £110. Pink small rug Bayliss & Booth £22.99. Honey medium rug Bayliss & Booth £44.99. Roll up picnic blanket This & That £60. Small basket Hurst £59.99 (set of 3).

Rat tan leather handle basket Acacia Bay £55.

Linen & cot ton throw Bayliss & Booth £34.99.

Pink linen cushion Acacia Bay £49.

Linen & cot ton cushions Bayliss & Booth £19.99.

July and August 2022

105

STYLE | Home

The advantages of cold-water swimming are well documented - increased immunit y, improved circulation, and a boost to wellbeing to name just a few. The Island is surrounded by some of the best coastline in the UK, making it easy to dive right in and reap the benefits.

Por table BBQ This & That £45. Jute shopper Bayliss & Booth £39.50.

White waf fle throw Bayliss & Booth £69.99. Water bot tle This & That £15.

Enamel vase Hurst £7.99. The Pebble Spot ters Guide Bayliss & Booth £9.99.

Striped linen Anne Ginger Sof t Furnishing from £75. www.studiojute.co.uk

106

styleofwight.co.uk

s e u c e Barb TOWER

STEALTH 4000

4 BURNER GAS BBQ

www.tryHURSTfirst.co.uk

GreenMeadows

Independent Island Living

.01 91 share 3 . f£ t o a 25% apply n e es y r se thl rcha charg n o u g a m to p llbein h wit were d We n u yo ice a P

’s, OVER 55 RA T X E W NE RED A CARE SH IP H S R E N OW ENTS APARTM

6

£5

if

*

5 7 ,8

rom

f es c i r

NEW EXTRA CARE DEVELOPMENT

rv

Se

OPEN DAY

Thursday 28th July 2022 10am – 3pm

All residents can be supported by the Wellbeing Team who are there to help everyone feel settled, supported and safe; this unique Wellbeing service can respond to your needs 24hrs a day on an unplanned care basis, enabling you to live independently in your own home.

To feel part of a community, there is access to facilities such as: • Minibus outings

• Activities and Lunch club

• Communal lounge

• Scheme shop

• Mobility scooter store with charging points

• Laundry room

• Hairdressers

• Dining room

*Properties can be purchased between 25-75% ownership

In Partnership with

For more information please contact: 0808 1699788 | newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Breakwaters

B

reakwaters is a brand-new development of apartments, duplexes, and houses that has graced the seafront location of Sandown Bay. Occupying a prime position opposite an award-winning beach, the properties benefit from panoramic sea views across the bay, far-reaching views to Culver Cliffs coastline plus the countryside.

You can find your desired property within this development of luxury properties that are stylish and modern.

The luxurious feel continues throughout this complex with the properties being built to a high standard, you can choose from a range of fitted kitchens and work tops to suit your style. Appliances will be integrated in the kitchens and underfloor heating comes as standard throughout. As well as this, the properties have security entry systems, allocated spaces, and visitor parking bays.

The apartments boast space with a variety of sizes ranging from 72 square metres to 140 square metres Gross Internal Area and benefit from Balconies and/or Terraces for al fresco dining. For peace of mind, these properties also benefit from a 10-year Q Assure Warranty.

CULVER PARADE, SANDOWN

*Please note imagery used is computer-generated, final build may differ.

Sandown Bay was voted the Best British Beach and described as a ‘traditional bucket and spade beach on the east coast of the island with miles of golden sand, pier and eclectic seafront – and just a short walk to peace, fossil-rich cliffs and stunning coastal wildlife’ in BBC’s Countryfile online poll.

In 2021 and 2022 this prestigious coastline was awarded ‘Blue Flag’ status meaning it can fly a flag to show it is recognised regarding its safety, facilities, cleanliness, and environmental considerations. Although three other beaches on the Isle of Wight won a seaside award, Sandown was the only beach to also win ‘Blue Flag’ Status, and one of only 17 beaches across the South East region to hold the status in 2022.

Just half a mile along the seafront is Yaverland beach which allows dogs all year round; the perfect place if you have a pet that needs to stretch their legs. Whereas Sandown Beach, directly in front of the development, is dog-friendly in the winter months.

Currently, over 50% of these properties are reserved with only one seafront-facing apartment and one townhouse remaining available for reservations at the time of writing.

If you would like further information, please contact Loren Allen at Hose Rhodes Dickson Shanklin on 01983 866000 or lorenallen@hrdiw.co.uk.

July and August 2022

109

STYLE | Home

The homes range from a period property with views across the wild southern coast, to a state-of-the-art modern apartment overlooking the calmer waters of the Solent, and a vintage 1970s Mediterranean-style house high above St Lawrence, with far-reaching sea views.

A HOME BY THE SEA Living with a view of the sea has to be the dream for almost everyone, so we have picked three stunning properties for you to explore for our Celebration of the Sea issue.

Converted from outbuildings that served the East Dene Estate in Bonchurch, Underley is just above Monks Bay at Bonchurch and is very private, with picturesque walks leading both ways along the undercliff. East Dene is one of the earliest TudorGothic houses in the area and was the home of the somewhat outrageous poet, Algernon Swinburne, who wrote much of his poetry there.

Most rooms have vaulted ceilings and large windows or glazed doors providing an airy, light feel and easy access to the series of decked terraces and small garden. This also takes in the stunning sea views, along with a heated swimming pool, with solar-powered cover. A gate at the bottom of the garden gives access to Monks Bay. You can accommodate a growing family and/or visiting friends with five bedrooms, three reception rooms, and three bathrooms, all on ground floor level. The master bedroom suite has a bedroom, dressing room and en-suite bathroom with a large walk-in shower, roll-top bath, and twin wash basin set on a marble surround.

The name Underley comes from the ship which, in September 1871, set off from the Thames with a cargo including cotton goods and gunpowder bound for Melbourne, but was shipwrecked in a storm in the bay below. The original carving of the name of the ship is now mounted on the house. spencewillard.co.uk

110

styleofwight.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Vantage Point is a development of eleven luxury apartments overlooking the Solent just a stone’s throw from the Royal Yacht Squadron. Seven Vantage has panoramic sea views, two balconies, and is just a short stroll from Cowes Old Town with its boutiques, watering holes, and excellent selection of eateries.

Built to a very high specification, this two-bedroomed apartment is on the first floor and has a modern elevator from the secure car park beneath the building, in which it has two allocated spaces. All apartments have their own alarm system, CCTV, and Vestibule Telecom-based entry system with keypad at the communal front door.

The two double bedrooms have tasteful neutral decor – both with rear/side aspects – and share a south-facing balcony with glass and stainless-steel barrier and a paving stone floor with pebbles around the edge.

The Living/Dining Room has outstanding Solent views peppered with yachts and pleasure craft on sunny summer days. Bi-fold doors encompass the whole of the furthest wall of the apartment, giving an unobstructed view of the Solent. These doors open onto a wide balcony, again with paving slabs and pebbled edging, which has plenty of room for outdoor furniture from which to take in those amazing sea views. mccarthyandbooker.co.uk

4 Fishers in St Lawrence has uninterrupted Channel views and is a substantial property over three floors with a bedroom and annexe-style facilities to the ground floor. This individual home was built in 1977 and has been upgraded in recent years.

Sitting in its own well-maintained gardens that are open plan to the front and enclosed to the rear, with mature bushes and shrubs including hardy-tropical plants, this house has a Mediterranean vibe with an arched entranceway.

The ground floor could be independent, with lounge/diner and one bedroom with en-suite shower room. Upstairs is the main living area with office and sitting room with side elevation and a kitchen/breakfast room and lounge/dining room both with access to the elevated balcony overlooking the English Channel.

The top/second floor has three further bedrooms and the family bathroom, with bedroom two having access to another balcony.

To the front of the property there are areas of lawn with planted beds, and a brick paved driveway with steps on one side leading up to a covered balcony that leads off from the kitchen/breakfast room. Further steps lead up to the rear garden.

On the other side of the house, there is a lawned garden and beautifully planted terraced gardens lead up to the rear of the house, with stepped access to the rear garden with a raised lawn.

This is an interesting and quite quirky house, set in the sheltered undercliff area with its corresponding microclimate. hrdcountryhomes.co.uk

July and August 2022

111

Community | STYLE

REMEMBER WITH RIBBONS A W E L C O M E R E T U R N T O M O U N T B AT T E N H O S P I C E A launch event will be held at Mountbatten on Friday 1 July at 4pm.

Music, drinks and canapes and support from Mountbatten’s bereavement team will be available.

Anyone who donates to place a ribbon will be helping Mountbatten support other Islanders who are bereaved or who need expert care.

Donations can be placed online or by calling Mountbatten’s fundraising team on 217300.

Over the summer, families and friends have been encouraged to coincide their visit by booking afternoon tea at Mountbatten Café.

It costs £15 per person and can be booked by calling 217341.

This event has been kindly supported

by Isle of Wight Distribution.

For more information about Remembering with Ribbons, please visit mountbatten.org.uk

A

special event for Islanders to remember their loved ones is returning to Mountbatten this summer.

Remembering with Ribbons will be held during July and August for people to leave colourful tributes in Mountbatten’s Chelsea Garden.

The ribbons can be personalised and they are free for anyone to display.

If people wish to leave a donation they will receive a special ribbon pack to personalise their dedication.

“We are delighted to bring back Remembering with Ribbons this summer,” said Mountbatten CEO Nigel Hartley.

“Remembering is an important part of our Mountbatten strapline - living, dying, remembering.

“This is a really special event because it can feel very personal but it also brings people together to remember.”

July and August 2022

113

BINNEL STUDIOS AND ORCHID HOUSE SUMMER EXHIBITION 4 Painters, 4 Potters, 2 Venues Shared Parking at Binnel Studios

27th,28th and 29th August 11am to 4pm daily

Both Venues are situated at the end of Old Park Rd , St Lawrence, PO38 1XR

www.binnelstudios.com

L I V I N G BY T H E S E A

By Ha n na h Lisseter DI RECTOR , GL A N V I L L ES DA M A N T

Summer is in full swing and the Island is at its very best.

Visitors are flocking to see what we have to offer, and many are easily persuaded to visit again. For some the draw of the Island is so great they decide to move or retire here, and given we are said to be one of the best places in the UK to retire to, it is no surprise.

I have many clients who have successfully made the move over and are enjoying all the benefits of retiring to the Isle of Wight. Many of those who move here choose to live by the sea and I will admit I do very much enjoy doing home visits with a sea view!

With over 500 miles of footpaths and 60 miles of coastline there is so much to explore and discover, along with a rich history and vibrant local community. And with more sunshine than most of the rest of the UK, it is often seen as a good alternative to moving abroad.

When making any move, it is important to review your legal documents, particularly your Wills and Powers of Attorney, as your circumstances have changed. At Glanvilles we have specialist local knowledge and are happy to meet with you and review these documents for free, even if they have been prepared by a different solicitor.

As with any move, there are pros and cons, but it is important to consider some of the following when taking that leap: work, healthcare, crime rates, schools, location, and the ferries – love them or loathe them, they are a necessary part of staying connected with the mainland!

For expert advice in reviewing your will contact Glanvilles on 01983 527878 or visit gdlegalservices.co.uk

To s p e a k t o o n e o f o u r e x p e r t s p l e a s e c a l l u s o n 0 1 9 8 3 5 2 7 8 7 8

Island knowledge, national expertise At Glanvilles Damant, we are committed to achieving the highest standards and the best results for our clients. We pride ourselves on putting the needs of our clients at the heart of

The Courtyard, St Cross Business Park Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5BF

116

styleofwight.co.uk

t: 01983 527878 f: 01983 821629

DX 56352 Newport IW e: hello@gdlegalservices.co.uk

www.gdlegalservices.co.uk

Business | STYLE

U S I N G TA X P L A N N I N G TO M I N I M I S E YO U R I N H E R I TA N C E TA X B I L L

S U C C E SS B R E E D S S U C C E SS

By Da le Howa r t h BUSI N ESS M EN TOR A N D CONSU LTA N T

By Lucy T homa s SOL ICITOR , H EA D OF PRI VAT E CL I EN T AT ROACH PITTIS

I don’t know what you think, but I believe there is far too much focus on failure. Maybe failure is on the increase because more people are trying out new things, but all too often failure is simply a tool for an excuse. Personally, I think failure gets undue attention and we should be talking more about success.

I

n 1968, American sociologist Robert K. Merton coined the term ‘Matthew effect’ to describe the fact that a success often leads to a string of subsequent successes. Sociologist Arnout van de Rijt describes it as a ‘lucky break’ setting in motion a success cascade.

Anecdotes abound in support of this concept, with high achievers in business, sports and academia describing how one critical success paved the way for another.

‘Success breeds success’ is not a new concept, but a restatement of Greek philosopher Aristotle’s thoughts by American philosopher William Durrant. In principle, it is assumed that success generates confidence, increasing the likelihood of success in subsequent activity. Whereas repeated failures are expected to lead to diminished future achievement. Maybe that’s why we like talking about failure so much, as it lessens the impact of subsequent failures.

I am a great believer in what I call ‘Little steps that lead to BIG changes’ and when

you start those small steps and find success, how it makes the next steps so much easier on the journey to success. But, of course, what success means to you may not be the same for someone else and age is no barrier.

When you are successful, it’s easy to be more successful, and other successful people and the opportunities for you to be more successful are drawn to you, and you to them as ‘everyone loves a winner’.

Success gives confidence and drives you to greater success. Surely it is better to celebrate success and ignore failure, but to learn from both. Success gives us ammunition for the future regardless of merit, talent, aptitude, or social networks.

When something succeeds, we learn what worked — and we can do it again. Next time, we’ll probably do it even better.

Dale Howarth is a Business Mentor and Business Growth Consultant.

Working with individuals and companies to make the business leaders and businesses successes of tomorrow. To find out more visit www.dalehowarth.com

G

etting timely advice about lifetime tax planning may help to reduce your Inheritance Tax bill, ensuring that your loved ones inherit as much as possible.

So, how does Inheritance Tax work and what can you do to help mitigate its impact?

Each individual has a ‘nil rate band’ (NRB). This means that no Inheritance Tax is payable on the first £325,000 of any estate. Thereafter, the standard Inheritance Tax rate is 40%, which can lead to a substantial liability on death.

The NRB can be transferred to a spouse or civil partner if it is not used, meaning that a couple will have a total NRB of £650,000. There is no Inheritance Tax payable if you leave everything to your spouse or civil partner or to a registered charity.

In addition to the NRB, many individuals will have available to them an additional allowance, the ‘residence nil rate band’ (RNRB). Assuming that you qualify for this (and not everybody does), your estate can benefit from another £175,000 tax-free.

This allowance too can be transferred to a spouse or civil partner if it is unused.

You can give away money or property during lifetime but be careful as to how and when gifts are made.

If you were to try to give away money or property to get it out of reach of the local authority, when you need care in the future questions will be asked!

There are far-reaching rules preventing such an ‘intentional deprivation of assets’.

Gifting ‘little and often’ is a useful way of reducing the value of your taxable estate over time. Each individual can give away £3,000 each tax year (and when you make this gift for the first time, you can carry forward last year’s allowance). You can also give away any number of gifts of £250 each tax year (perhaps to a group of grandchildren).

You can also make gifts to relatives if they marry or enter a civil partnership.

A useful (but often underused) exemption is the ability to give away income that is excess to your requirements e.g. monthly or quarterly income that just builds up and adds to your capital.

There are all sorts of tools available to you so why not contact us for advice. If you would like to speak to one of our expert lawyers, call us on on 01983 524431 or email us at info@roachpittis.co.uk July and August 2022

117

Style speaks

to Ainsley Harriott

You visited the Island recently with Grace Dent to film your new series The Best of Britain by the Sea. How was your trip?

We timed it perfectly. The weather could have been a little bit kinder, but the beauty of course is that we could just move around so freely. As you know it’s deemed the sunniest place in Britain and it’s really good for health and all that stuff. Unless you’re stuck behind a thousand cars trying to get onto the ferry.

Everybody fires up their cars at the same time – “let’s get off” (laughs). Switch off your bloody engines!! Don’t worry it’ll all be electric soon...

Had you been to the Island before?

I do remember being quite young and my dad was an entertainer and I’m almost sure he used to go over there and perform, and we went with him.

I think you stayed at Woodside and cooked in your Lodge?

I taught Gracey how to do poached egg and I did bagels with smoked salmon and crushed chilli avocado – and she absolutely loved it. Of course, every weekend after our filming she went back home, and her boyfriend got poached eggs and he was saying, “enough already! Can I just have bacon and eggs?!”

Where else did you stay?

We were at the Royal Hotel for a few nights.

I love places with a bit of history attached to them. I know that Queen Victoria only went there once, but that did it for me. And they create these wonderful afternoon teas and stuff. When I went to the kitchen, I made Gallybagger souffles. I think it’s been on the menu for 27 years and he told me that if he took it off the menu, he’d probably get the sack!

You went to the Smoking Lobster on Ventnor Seafront, and I think Grace said she had the best lobster she’s ever had?

We had lobster and seabass – they did a

118

styleofwight.co.uk

seafood platter, and it was just knockout. I think the real beauty, of course, was that...I’ve said this time and time again...when you’re near the sea and you’re eating seafood, something happens. It feels so kind of natural. It’s kind of, “I’ve taken this out of the sea and now I’m eating it,” and you’re not stuck in the centre of London or something, you are actually on the coast and it’s beautiful. And I loved the family spirit [at the Smoking Lobster] and I loved the fact that everyone came in.

I know we were filming but they didn’t have to be there, and they were, and we were able to have a little chat with the chef in the kitchen about their food, their produce and everything and they’re all so passionate about it and they love it, and you need that.

You made sweets too?

We were making rhubarb and custard, using traditional machinery at that famous place where they’re got all the sweets [The Isle of Wight Sweet Manufactory at Alum Bay].

And that was fantastic. We went behind the scenes to make rhubarb and custard and I have to say that me and Grace were like little kids in a sweetshop, y’know we got very, very excited. I probably still have a bag or so around the house of rhubarb and custard.

I kind of like them because you can control the amount of acid that’s going in and they were a little bit more sherbetty than the ones you buy in the shop.

Of the local produce you tried, which would be your favourite?

I loved the freshness of the garlic when I went to the Garlic Farm and I ate in the restaurant and the old dad who started it all, and who’s very much taking back seat, he pops up now and then and if he likes you, he’ll come and tell you how to plant garlic.

And he came out and he showed us how you can just take a clove of garlic and push

it down into the soil and make a little well and cover it over and feed it lots of water and give it lots of space, and hey presto you can grow your own garlic. In fact, I’m growing some in the garden now as he gave me some. It was absolutely fantastic, and I loved what they were doing with it and how they were experimenting with it, and the sticky toffee pudding with [black] garlic.

I loved the peacocks, the way they were wandering around, and I don’t know if it was wassername season but one of them was opening and showing us all of the feathers– beautiful.

You also visited Freshwater Bay? At Freshwater Bay we had pizza on the bay, which I think concludes the programme.

It’s the mobile pizza place on the beach [Wightwood Pizza]. We ended up taking piccys all the time and I was being told, “no, no, Covid!” I’m a hugger, I’m a people person and touch wood in all this time I haven’t had Covid.

Will you be recommending the Island to other people?

Well, I think the whole programme will be recommending it! Yeah, I did when I got back first when I was chatting with friends.

It does feel like you’re going on holiday.