Style of Wight Issue 84 September/October 2023 by Style of Wight

T H E I S L E O F W I G H T ’ S I N S P I R AT I O N A L L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E ISSUE 84 SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2023

HOMES & INTERIORS SPECIAL EDITION

fashion

health

Discovering Island Poet Charlotte Mew F o l l o w t h e S t y l e o f W i g h t G a l l e r y Tr a i l

UNIQUE ISLAND STYLE FOR YOU & YOUR HOME

lifestyle

A u t u m n Wa l k s t o C o s y P u b s

Briddlesford Farm Marks its Centenary

beauty

food

home

family

art

Charnwood Cove 3

YEARS

Extraordinary stoves. Made on the Isle of Wight, sold worldwide. 01983 537780 • @charnwoodstoves • www.charnwood.com

charnwood

L I F E S T Y L E

Opening Hours:

Tuesday - Saturday 1 0 am - 5 pm 1 4 - 1 6 H i g h S t r e e t , S h a n k l i n , P O 3 7 6 L B | Te l : 0 7 9 5 6 3 5 1 3 4 1 @ a c a c i a b a y i o w | a c a c i a b a y i o w. c o . u k

STYLE | Home

Guide Price £735,000 Luccombe, Isle of Wight

A unique and characterful home set in an idyllic rural spot with magnificent views of Luccombe Downs and the sea, this main building has three double bedrooms with a fabulous rear balcony to enjoy these gorgeous views. With substantial gardens, parking for multiple vehicles and the addition of two self contained cabins on site which is a wonderful opportunity for holiday lets or over spill family rooms. Much loved, upgraded and renovated by the current owners over the past 20 years. Viewing is highly recommended.

COUNTRYSIDE AND SEA VIEWS

email: hello@mccarthyandbooker.co.uk phone: 01983 300 111

Helping you find your perfect home... Guide Price £325,000

Guide Price £650,000

An end of terrace cottage in beautiful Gurnard. With two bedrooms and two reception rooms, this cosy traditional home has many original features. Easy walking distance to the village shop, local eateries and beach with its sailing club.

Three bedroom townhouse overlooking the harbour with use of a private pontoon. Well presented, and newly refurbished with two bath/shower rooms, a newly renovated kitchen and a balcony to relax and enjoy the fantastic harbour and sea views. Parking and close to town.

Gurnard, Isle of Wight

CHARACTERFUL COTTAGE

Cowes, Isle of Wight

MARINA AND SEA VIEWS

Guide Price £330,000

Guide Price £725,000

A period property with three bedrooms, large reception room and a beautiful garden. Within a short walk to the East Cowes Red Funnel Terminal, town and the chain ferry to Cowes, a great location with off street parking.

This modern three bedroom townhouse located in a no through road has fabulous Solent views. This home is offered chain free and has the added benefit of off road parking, a garage and being located within easy walking distance to Cowes seafront and town centre.

WELL PRESENTED HOME

FANTASTIC SEA VIEWS

East Cowes Isle of Wight

mccarthyandbooker.co.uk

Cowes, Isle of Wight

Lavender House BEMBRIDGE

■ A stunning family home set across

four floors.

LAVENDER HOUSE

■ Large landscaped garden and

S WA I N S L A N E , B E M B R I D G E , P O 35 5 S T

grounds extending to 3/4 of an acre. ■ Luxurious outdoor heated pool

complex. ■ Set on the sought after Swains Lane. ■ Self-contained ancillary

accomodation. ■ Wide array of rooms including wine

cellar and plant room.

Guide Price: £2,750,000

EMM

EPC: C

Emmett Hill,

Council Tax Band: H Tenure: Freehold

www .bcm.co.uk

WINCHESTER

ISLE OF WIGHT

OXFORD

BCM, The Old Dairy, Winchester Hill, Sutton Scotney, Winchester, Hampshire SO21 3NZ T 01962 763 900 E info@bcm.co.uk

BCM, Red Barn, Cheeks Farm, Merstone Lane, Merstone, Isle of Wight PO30 3DE T 01983 828 805 E iow@bcm.co.uk

BCM, Ouseley Barn Farm, Ipsden, Wallingford, Oxfordshire OX10 6AR T 01865 817 105 E oxford@bcm.co.uk

iow@bcm.co.uk

@BCM_LLP

01983 828 805

RURAL PROPERTY SPECIALISTS WITH OFFICES ON THE ISLAND, HAMPSHIRE AND OXFORDSHIRE

BILLINGHAM MANOR B I L L I N G H A M , N E W P O R T, I S L E O F W I G H T, P O 30 3 H E

Billingham Manor (Lot 1)

BI LLI N G H A M ■ Substantial six-bedroom, Grade II listed manor house.

■ Just under 19 acres of pastureland and woodland.

■ Set within landscaped garden and grounds.

■ Accessed via its own tree lined drive.

■ Detached manor cottage and farm buildings included.

■ Approx. 18.98 acres of pastureland and woodland.

Guide Price £1,950,000

EPC: Manor (N/A) Cottage (E) Council Tax Band: Manor (C) Cottage (C) Tenure: Freehold

Emmet Hill House CH ALE G REEN

■ Stunning views across the West Wight.

M E T T H■ ICharacterful L L H Odetached U S Efour bedroom family home.

, Chale Green, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 2JU

■ Landscaped gardens.

■ House is served by a private driveway lined with trees. ■ Grounds containing 4.1 acres of pasture and woodland. ■ A number of outbuildings including a garage and office.

Guide Price £1,295,000

EPC: G Council Tax Band: D Tenure: Freehold

BCM, Red Barn, Cheeks Farm, Merstone Lane, Merstone, Isle of Wight PO30 3DE

HELLO@SPENCEWILLARD.CO.UK

01983 200880

RY DE £1,7 95,0 0 0 Oc c upyi ng a pr i me w ate r f r o nt po s i ti on a nd s o ug h t-af te r l o c ati o n, th i s attr ac ti v e period h o us e o f f e r s pl e nty o f ac c o mmo dati on a nd v e r s ati l i ty w i th a ne w g ar ag e anne x or hom e office.

GURNA R D £2 , 350, 000 A rare opport u nit y t o a c q u i r e a w a t e r f r o n t f amily h ome s et in g a r d e n s o f a p p r o x . 0 . 9 a c r e, with beau t ifu l l y refu r b i s h e d a c c o m m o d a t i o n and ex c ept ion al v iew s. E P C C

BR IG H S TO N E £1,50 0 ,0 0 0 A s upe r b f o r me r Re c to r y w i th a f as c ina ting h i s to r y, c h ar ac te r f ul ac c o mmo dati o n a nd de l i g h tf ul g ar de ns , s i tuate d o n th e fringe of th i s po pul ar c o as tal v i l l ag e . E P C L i s te d, Gr ade I I

SPENCEWILLARD.CO.UK

@ s pe ncewilla rdiw

Architecture

Quantity Surveying

Masterplanning

Cost Consultancy

Feasibility Studies

Project Management

Concept Designs

Built Asset Advice

CGI Visualisation

Rainey Petrie is a brand of ERMC Ltd Visit www.raineypetrie.com

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

Estate Management

Rewilding

Residential Block Management

Pond Management

Service Charge and Administration

Meadow Establishment and Care

Health & Safety Compliance

Fencing

Reactive Repairs and Maintenance

Tree and Hedge Planting

Note from the Editor The leaves are beginning to fall all around and it is time that summer was on its way out to make room for the beauty that a new season brings.

Cover Pic: See page 78

Editor and Creative Director Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk Deputy Editor James Rayner Sub Editor Helen Hopper Production Assistant Hannah Wilson office@styleofwight.co.uk Contributors Features: Rebecca Lawson Contributors: Lauren Fry, Ros Whistance Dale Howarth, Kayleigh Trott Design Tim Mander

I’m feeling very thankful to have enjoyed a most pleasant ‘staycation’ this year on the Island, but as the Autumn moon now lights the sky it feels like a new season is headed my way. Perhaps also I’m re-energised as the small folk have returned to their school routine. I certainly feel that there is no time for spreading roots, it’s time for branching out! We are busy here getting ready for our second Homes and Interiors Show on 15th October at Afton Farmhouse. I’m super proud to be able to bring you this event with our superb team and our wonderful exhibitors, who have truly embraced our concept. We’re looking forward to another exciting event. See our pages 76-90 this edition as we champion some independent Island business and take a peek at what they offer. Our food pages are filled with celebrations too as we head down on the Farm at Briddlesford, where Chris and Paul regale us with a 100-year story of this iconic Island farm. We reveal some new dishes on selected local menus and encourage you to get out for a good old ramble with one of our beautiful Island pubs as your destination. You can almost taste Autumn on our pages! We continue to bring you art and creative culture with our Gallery Trail on pages 39-45 and we meet the talented furniture maker Kate Sanger on pages 28-31. Lauren Fry, arts educator, brings creativity to your kitchen table with an inspired fabric dyeing technique using natural materials. I hope you enjoy this edition – truly I’m blessed to be surrounded by a fabulous team here at Style of Wight and I hope you get as much joy out of reading this edition as we do in bringing it to you.

Photography Christian Warren, Julian Winslow, Gary Wallis Sales Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk Distribution office@styleofwight.co.uk 01983 861007

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

Christian Warren

Get in touch

8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1EJ 01983 861007 www.styleofwight.co.uk September and October 2023

sometimeS great things also come in smAll sizes The Aritco HomeLift Compact, probably the most spaceefficient home lift in the market

www.aritco.com • 01604 808809 • info.uk@aritco.com

Contents

Issue 84: September and October 2023

54 REGULARS 16

130

Style Picks: New products for the home – with retailers you can meet at the Homes & Interiors Show The Style Scoop: Enjoy an abundance of unique things to do this Autumn Style speaks: To the Local pop Rock Artist – Lauren Hibberd

ART 26

Nature’s Chameleon Dye: With Lauren Fry, Arts Educator

Meet the Furniture Maker: Kate Sanger – Striving for sustainable beauty

Style Spectrum: Photography by Roger Lowe

125

From Cover to Cover with Babushka Books: The World of Tailor-Made Picture Framing

FEATURES

FOOD

Peeling Back the Layers: By Kayleigh Trott of Studio Jute Interior Design

Mermaid Gin Cocktails: Long, Layered and Fruity 106 Autumn Menus: The Season of Mists and Mellow Tastiness 109 Autumnal Walks & Island Pubs: Take a look at our recommendations

Flowers by Ellie: Use your Halloween Pumpkin to create an Autumnal Flower arrangement

Cavolo Nero: With Will Steward, Living Larder

121

Property Profiles: Explore Island Homes this Autumn

Style Kitchen Masterclass: Duck Three Ways – With Joel Yearsley of The Boathouse, Seaview

Self-Build your way to a Dream Home: With Thomas Dawson AssoRICS, Associate Partner, BCM Rural Specialists

57 58 64

HEALTH AND BEAUTY 95

Relieving Neck Pain: Dr Luther Moss – Osborne Chiropractic Embrace the Health Span Revolution: Dr Margarita Kitova-John – The Lantern Clinic Is Your Home a Place of Harmony? Caroline Hurley – BeCalmed, Cowes

Through the Keyhole: With Lisa Henry from Lobster Locations

The Gallery Trail: A Style of Wight guide to our Island Galleries

FASHION

Following the Herd: A Hundred Years at Briddlesford Farm

128

Charlotte Mew: A forgotten LGBTQ+ Poetess with Isle of Wight Connections

101

Revitalise your skin this Autumn: Dr Hayley Elsmore – The Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic

Big Ideas for Small Spaces: With Ventnor Botanic Gardens

BUSINESS 113

What Got You Here, May not get you There: By Dale Howarth, Business Mentor and Consultant

114

Why is Estate Planning Important for Everyone? By Ben Silk, Rouse Limited

114

Make A Will that Reflects Ever Changing Times: By Hannah Lisseter, Churchers Solicitors

For Autumn/Winter: Exploring seasonal trends with Visual Impact

HOME AND GARDEN 76

The Style of Wight Guide: To Homes and Interiors

Isle of Wight Homes & Interiors Show: Returning for 2023

76 September and October 2023

Acacia Bay

Style

Exuding charm and elegance, these pearl white dinner plates are inspired by the richness of 18th and 19th century European ceramics. The round shapes with a beaded rim are reinvented to create a new classic concept, bringing a sophisticated and soft backdrop to your everyday table or setting the stage for all special celebrations. Acaciabayiow.co.uk

picks Here on the Isle of Wight we really are spoilt for choice when it comes to purchasing new products for the home! From the most magical long-lasting fragrance to fill the room with SHED Soy Candles to beautiful new floor tiles creating an instant wow factor with Long Lane Carpets and Flooring – we’ve decided to round up a collection of some of our favourite products. Even better – all these local businesses will be at the Isle of Wight Homes & Interiors Show (See Page 78) this October so you’ll have the opportunity to meet the design experts too!

Charnwood

The Country Living ‘Bembridge’ is an innovative wood-burning stove featuring a removable door handle, one single air control, and an integrated inlet for ducting external air. The Bembridge burns exceptionally clean, with outstanding efficiency. There is nothing quite the same as heating your home with a real Charnwood fire!

charnwood.com styleofwight.co.uk

Honeybourne

Inspired by Victorian finger plates, the ‘Sitting Birds’ doorplates are made to protect and beautify doors. Designed by Honeybourne Jewellery, the doorplates are laser cut from brass by Island company AJ Wells. They are then given a brushed, satin finish which adds subtle tone. honeybournejewellery.com

Bayliss & Booth

Cream of the crop! The new buttermilk yellow Anglepoise lamps are part of the National Trust edition of the original 1227™ floor lamp. They blend the classic Anglepoise silhouette and constant spring articulation with an attractive, braided, coloured cable. A perfect choice if you are looking for a highly adjustable reading lamp and stylish, contemporary accessory. baylissandbooth.co.uk

XV Stripes

Made for lounging, at 91cm square these cushions are perfect for movie nights, picnics, or comfy naps. The ‘Just Stripes’ range is made from XV’s signature fabric of sustainable cotton, Oeko-Tex 100 standard woven blue and white stripes. There are four sizes and styles to choose from.

Wooldridge Interiors

xvstripes.com

These gorgeous textured gold resin discs on a black stand look fabulous as a standalone piece or paired with mixed sizes. Place them strategically around your home to provide a sense of light and warmth. The effect is both hypnotic and exotic – conjuring images of Africa, Egypt or perhaps the Far East.

SHED Soy Candles

Get ready for a cosy night in with the soothing blend of Bergamot & Lavender essential oils. This candle uses their anxiety-alleviating properties to ease restlessness and insomnia so you can sail undisturbed into a blissful evening of pure relaxation at home.

wooldridgeinteriors.com

shedsoycandles.co.uk

Island Roasted

Long Lane Carpets & Flooring

Introducing The Sage Barista Express Impress. Create third wave speciality coffee at home from bean to espresso in less than a minute. The best of the Barista Express with the Impress™ Puck System. Helping you to achieve the perfect dose and a precise tamp while reducing the grinds on the machine and bench top. islandroasted.co.uk

A range of sophisticated porcelain, textural encaustic and durable ceramic tiles, all beautifully displayed as loose sample tiles at the Newport showroom, making it easy for you to pull schemes together and the confidence to use colour and styles otherwise not thought of. longlanecarpetsandflooring.co.uk

September and October 2023

Style

scoop

Enjoy an abundance of unique things to do this autumn on the Island, from the inspirationa l Isle of Wight Homes and Interiors Show to the best places to go and k ick up the leaves... Isle of Wight Literary Festival 5th – 8th October, Northwood House – Cowes A popular event in the Isle of Wight Calendar, this festival will be celebrating its 11th anniversary and will once again be providing a varied and exciting programme with something for everyone. History, politics, crime, nature, and personal stories are among the topics featured at this year’s festival. Festival favourite Tracy Borman will be speaking about her latest book, Anne Boleyn & Elizabeth I: the Mother and Daughter Who Changed History. Master storyteller Michael Morpurgo will return with his newest book, Michael Morpurgo’s Tales From Shakespeare, a re-telling of 10 of Shakespeare’s plays. Elly Griffiths will discuss The Last Remains, the most recent book in the Dr Ruth Galloway series. For full information and tickets visit isleofwightliteraryfestival.com

Isle of Wight Jazz Weekend 14th – 17th September, Various Venues – Newport The Isle of Wight’s annual jazz festival, now in its 11th year, brings the very best of the UK jazz scene to the Island for 4 days of top-class music using venues in and around Newport. The event is organised and run by volunteers on a not-forprofit basis. In previous years the event has hosted Stacey Kent, the BBC Big Band, Liane Carroll, Ian Shaw, and a host of top musicians, alongside the best of the Island’s own vibrant jazz scene. For full information and tickets visit iwjw.co.uk

Isle of Wight Walking Festival 7th – 15th October, Va rious – Isla ndw ide

Wa l k th is Way! T he Isle of Wig ht Wa l k i ng Festiva l retu rns th is autu m n. So lace up you r wa l k i ng boots, d ig out you r wool l ies, a nd joi n i n w ith keen h i kers, rela xed wa nderers, a nd cu rious ex plorers a l i ke. With a plethora of routes on offer to su it a l l abi l ities, the Isle of Wig ht Wa l k i ng Festiva l is a n i nclusive event prov id i ng a g u ided tou r th roug h the Isla nd’s va ried la ndscape, th riv i ng w i ld l i fe, a nd rich heritage. T h is friend ly festiva l hosts a va riety of wa l ks led by k nowledgeable volu nteer wa l k leaders. You’l l easi ly f i nd a wa l k that su its you — whether you’re look i ng for a shorter strol l or a day-long h i ke across the Isla nd. T here w i l l be themed wa l ks too. For full information visit isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk

styleofwight.co.uk

Isle of Wight Homes & Interiors Show 15th October, East Afton Farmhouse – West Wight

Even bigger a nd sh i n ier tha n before, T he Isle of Wig ht Homes & Interiors Show is back for 2023, fol low i ng on from the spectacu la r success of last yea r’s event. On Su nday 15th October the gates of East A f ton Fa rm house w i l l open once aga i n to revea l a u n ique m i x of ha nd-picked homewa res, soph isticated g i f ts, creative i nterior desig ners, a nd ta lented a rch itectu ra l adv isors. From renovation i nspi ration to d iscoveri ng you r nex t statement piece, the qua l ity col lection of ha nd-picked bra nds ex h ibiti ng on-site w i l l have you covered – offeri ng more desig n ideas tha n you cou ld ever hope to pi n to you r mood boa rd. For full information & tickets visit blackswanevent.co.uk

Har p on Wight International Festival 24th – 29th October, Method ist Chu rch – Ryde

Celebrati ng thei r 10th A n n iversa r y, Ha rp on Wig ht have a ver y strong l i ne-up th is yea r. Perform i ng concerts a nd teach i ng workshops i nclude Remy Va n Kesteren — the spectacu la r ha rpist from T he Netherla nds, Irela nd’s lead i ng ha rpist Laoise Kel ly, a nd Senega lese kora player Kad ia l ly Kouyate perform i ng the open i ng concert. For full information & tickets visit: harponwight.co.uk

Terror Island

27th October – 4th November, Black ga ng Ch i ne – Ventnor T he South Coast’s biggest, mu lti-awa rd-w i n n i ng sca re attraction is back a nd ready for more ch i l ls a nd th ri l ls for 2023. Im merse you rsel f i n a horri f y i ng ly epic n ig ht out set to ma ke even the bravest creatu res screa m! Ex perience the attraction’s col lection of terri f y i ng sca re ex periences g ua ra nteed to put you r fea rs a nd phobias to the test. Keep that ad rena l i ne pu mpi ng by ta k i ng a da rk descent on one of the pa rk’s th ri l l i ng rides, before ca l m i ng you r ner ves w ith a mouth-wateri ng cock ta i l a nd mea l from a sca ri ly del icious menu! For full information & tickets visit blackgangchine.com September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Through the

Keyh le with Lisa Henry from Lobster Locations By Ja mes R ay ner

Photos by Ga r y Wa l l i s

Today we’re in Ryde, amongst the weighty Victorian villas that sit in the shadow of All Saints Church, crunching up a certain gravel driveway. We’re here to knock on the door of an impressive gothic-style home, built in 1870, with a Welsh name proudly set above the door (thanks to a bank manager from Abergavenny who once called this place home). Welcoming us inside, wearing a floaty summer dress, is Lisa Henry — a former interior designer and now the co-founder of local film locations agency Lobster Locations. September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

The kitchen, from where the enticing smell of banana bread is emanating

BORN on the northwest coast of Tasmania, Lisa’s parents

had emigrated from Britain to Australia after her sports teacher dad took an opportunity to move to the other side of the world as a ‘Ten Pound Pom’. Her parents separated not long after her birth and she moved to the UK with her mum at six months old, growing up in a council flat off the King’s Road in Chelsea. “Although we had little money,” Lisa tells us, as we follow her down the hallway, “I grew up surrounded by brilliant art and culture and people just having fun. I remember walking with my nan and seeing punks for the first time wearing safety pins in their ears. That time definitely left a lasting impression on me.”

Lisa’s links with the Isle of Wight first began at the age of seven, when her family set sail for a holiday in Freshwater Bay, where she taught herself to swim. Over the years, she’d return for day trips with her Yorkshire-born boyfriend (and later husband) Mark and spend family holidays at the West Bay Club when her two sons came along. “I always loved the journey, driving through the New Forest to catch

styleofwight.co.uk

the Lymington ferry and stopping off to have lunch at The Pig in Brockenhurst. I loved being on the Island, and every trip I’d take home a copy of Style of Wight with me. We did a few holidays to Cornwall too, but during the eight-hour drive from London it reminded me how much fun we’d had on the Island, and how much easier it was to get to, whilst being equally beautiful.” Taking a seat in the snug, with walls painted in the almost-black ‘Railings’ colour from Farrow & Ball, Lisa explains that despite having a great few years living in the South London suburb of Streatham, by 2019, the family were ready for a change of lifestyle. “We’d just had a holiday to see my dad in Tasmania and sitting outside his house on the hill, overlooking the sea, flipping through an Aussie cookbook and thinking what to make for dinner, I realised I needed nothing more to be happy. At the time, Mark was working for a financial institution in the City, with 7 a.m. starts every morning, and my eldest, Ollie, was about to begin senior school. Part of me was always wistful that I’d never grown up by the sea and I could sense something was happening on the Isle of Wight and wanted to be a part of it.”

Feature | STYLE

A palette of black, gold and cream emerging in the lounge

After a few twists and turns (including an 18-month wait for their London home to sell), Lisa and Mark ended up falling for this gothic home in Ryde, with its sea glimpses, spacious rooms, and lofty ceilings. “It just felt like a home from home,” Lisa smiles, “and so similar to our Streatham home, our furniture could just move straight in.” For a few years in the 2010s she worked as an interior designer, following on from a course at the KLC School of Design in Chelsea Harbour, and whilst she describes her new Island abode as a ‘work in progress’ Lisa’s vision is already starting to come through. Stepping into the dining room, we find a Lombok sideboard bought on Tottenham Court Road, topped with stylish lampshades from Pooky Lighting and a statement ceramic bowl from Wootton’s Bayliss and Booth. The chairs have had a fresh recovering by Giacomelli Upholstery of Cowes and an assortment of black and white portraits on the back wall give a nod to the strong and successful women in Lisa’s family (including an opera singer and an early film star and model). “I always like to start designing a room by thinking about how I want to feel in that space, then I work from

there, engaging all five senses, including smell. Each room will have its own signature scent from a candle or diffuser, just to set the mood and complete the full picture.” Moving through into the lounge (which Lisa re-designed to create a feminine space for yoga and reading when the boys are watching football in the snug) we spy a sophisticated mid-century drinks trolley, from Jack’s Vintage and Collectables, down the hill in Union Street, as well as an Eames House Bird sculpture perched nearby. “We decided pretty early on that we wanted to source as much as possible from the Island and support as many local businesses as we could. Next, we’ll be remodelling the kitchen with the help of architect Leah Mew and the design of Jack Thompson & Co of Cowes. I love their aesthetic, clean and modern but traditional too. I can’t wait to get started.” As we take a peek into the pantry, talk turns to Lisa’s latest work project — Lobster Locations. Sourcing locations for magazines, film, and TV, the firm has already partnered up with the Natural History Museum for a shoot at Compton, Fat Face for an autumn shoot at September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

The snug - adorned with illustrations that give a nod to local life, and London life too

Newtown, assisted Shine Entertainment with an episode of Celebrity Hunted for Channel 4, and worked on the Beast Must Die for BritBox, too. Using her previous experience working in the film industry (and having let out her own home for filming in the past) Lisa decided to set up a locations agency based on the Island, after realising how much potential the local area had for film. “From Napoleonic forts and stately homes to rugged cliffs and landscapes that look like the American prairies, the Island has it all. There’s also a world-class pool of film professionals living here too, and we have a great working relationship with Film Wight and Isle of Wight Film Fixers. I knew it could work but wanted a partner, which is when I serendipitously joined forces with Rowan Middleton-Leal, my co-founder and a commercial lawyer who sorts out the contracts for each project.” Finishing our tour on the lawn, Lisa tells us what she loves about living in Ryde — from dining at The Heron, trips to the Commodore Cinema, having her eggs delivered from Nunwell Home Farm and cold water swimming with the Seaview Salties. “It feels like home now. After the pandemic I couldn’t wait to go back to John Lewis’ iconic Peter Jones department store in Sloane Square; it was always my safe space — I called it ‘the mothership’. I was almost breaking down the doors to get back in there after lockdown, but whilst I was there I put my hand in my pocket and found sand from the beach at Appley. That’s when I said to myself, right, it’s time to go back home to the Island now.”

styleofwight.co.uk

A quiet corner in this stylish Gothic home

sit

#su

AUTUMN

• Vi

n• um

MORE THAN JUST A PUB

this Au us t

rtyour

FLAVOURS

NEW SEASON MENUS VISIT OUR WEBSITES TO VIEW THE NEW SEASONAL DISHES USING LOCALLY SOURCED PRODUCE ~

BOOKINGS ARE NOW BEING TAKEN FOR CHRISTMAS

Join us for pre Christmas party nights at The Fishbourne for dining & dancing! Book now for Christmas Day at The Boathouse & The Fishbourne See the Christmas page on our websites for full details

01983 882823 theﬁshbourne.co.uk

Visit our websites www.innsofdistinction.co.uk

01983 810616 theboathouseiow.co.uk

Accommodation Reservations Book Now 01983 873572

STYLE | Art

Nature’s Chameleon Dye With Lau ren Fr y, A rts Educator Dyeing fabrics from natural materials such as minerals, vegetables and plants is an ancient skill that dates back to the Neolithic and Stone age period. The process for ex tracting colour from nature is one that has changed ver y little over the past 5000 years, simply adding foraged materials into boiling water and soaking fabric in the solution. A pret t y magical process in itself, I am sure you will agree, but we can take the alchemy one step fur ther with the power of A nthocyanins. A nthocyanins are an acid/alkali indicator found in plants, berries and vegetables such as blueberries, cornflowers, aubergine and red cabbage. Once ex tracted, and combined with various kitchen essentials, the range of colours and tones which can be created is phenomenal.

Materials: Red cabbage Saucepan White Fabric Lemon Juice Water Strainer/Colander Baking Soda An adult!

For this issue’s make we will use the potential of the red cabbage’s pigment to dye, dif fuse and decorate plain white fabric into a cacophony of creations.

Examples of other acids/alkalis you can experiment with:

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

Step 1: Chop your red cabbage and boil in water until the liquid turns dark blue. Step 2: Strain and keep the liquid. Step 3: Submerge the fabric in the liquid and leave to soak. Step 4: Once cooled, remove and wring out fabric.Add drops of lemon juice and sprinkles of baking soda to the fabric...watch the magic happen. Step 5: Once dried, conjure up a magnificent make to use your fabric for.

In need of a little inspiration? For some natural tie-dyed home décor accessories, I have created bunting with fun doodles and a hand sewn and stuffed cuddly character who looks fab hanging out on a book shelf. F i nd out more about Lau ren’s i l lu st rat ion work at stud iow ren.co.u k or fol low her on I n st a g ra m @stud io_w ren September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Meet the

Furniture Maker Kate Sanger

Words: James Rayner Photography: Julian Winslow

On her days in the workshop, Kate Sanger leaves behind the breaking waves and circling seagulls of her home in Freshwater Bay and heads up the hill to a converted stone stable block at Norton Green, with her trusty dog by her side. After opening up, Kate looks over her part-constructed tables and newly sawn components, to see how her pieces have spent the night, before switching on the radio, whirring up the coffee machine, and reshuffling her notes — ready to begin a new day of woodwork.

September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Whilst today Kate looks very at home amongst the jigsaws, sanders, and sawdust, her career initially took off in a completely different direction. Born in Emsworth, to an architect father and a mother who did deskwork for a solicitor, Kate was often led away from creativity and instead nudged in a more academic direction. “I was definitely a bit of a tomboy,” she tells us, “and tried to help my father with his woodwork, but I think I got in the way more than anything.” After growing up in Lymington, Kate settled on the idea of working in TV, though at the time one of the only routes in for women was via the make-up department. “I studied Theatrical and TV Make-Up at the London College of Fashion for two years, later working for Sky when they first set up in this country. I also did make-up for a lot of rock and pop bands at the time and whilst working for one particular TV company, I started making props too.” Next came a move to an animation company and a first foray into set-making (spending months and months carving out a model cathedral) before enrolling in a furniture course at City and Islington College in 1995. “It was a course for women, run by women, with just one long-suffering male technician who would have to go around turning off all the machines that we’d left on. I finally felt like I’d found my place. At the time I was living with friends in Ladbroke Grove, which was much poorer and much more multi-racial than today. We used to have the Notting Hill Carnival go right past

styleofwight.co.uk

the door every year, which we’d all gather to watch, and then we’d be in and out of each other’s flats for drinks afterwards.” The course ended with a final year at the London College of Furniture, after which Kate and two other students clubbed together to get their first workshop in Chiswick, close to the River Thames. Working under another company the group made interiors for bars and restaurants and even made lots of wooden boxes to raise up the floor in the National Theatre. “We were so quick and cheap we were always in high demand. The guy who ran the company told us it was far better using us efficient women than waiting for a bunch of men to turn up, just for them to begin by charging their drills.” By the year 2000, a lot of Kate’s friends began moving out of London and, encouraged by a painter friend who had set up a workshop in Freshwater’s Golden Hill Fort, Kate headed down to the Island too — a place she knew well from childhood holidays. Leaving behind her commercial clients, she started to focus on crafting one-off pieces for individual customers, beginning with bespoke dining tables and a raft of stylish two-tone chopping boards, sold through Blue By The Sea in Yarmouth. As things took off, Kate moved from her first workshop in Freshwater to a metal container in a timberyard (“handy for the wood but the generator often didn’t work”), later switching to New Barn Farm at

Calbourne and more recently taking over her former stone stable block at Norton Green. “Having been a metal workshop previously there were a lot of oily patches on the floor when I first moved in, but I love it; it’s my happy place and I’ve been here for five years now.” From benches and cupboards to shelves and nests of tables, Kate’s reputation for crisp, finely crafted woodwork has spread entirely through word of mouth and her commissions continue to stretch her skills in new directions. Over the lockdowns, she made four tailor-made kitchens completely from scratch, sometimes with just a quick sketch to go by. With every piece Kate sets to work on, ethics will always be high on the agenda. She sources sustainable temperate hardwood (such as oak, ash, and beech) and only ever uses reclaimed tropical woods, such as mahogany. “I recycle and repurpose as much as I can. I once rescued some oak posts when they rebuilt the old walkway at Newtown and made them into a low chessboard table for a garden. I’ve also turned an old mahogany staircase into a garden bench and created some side tables out of old beams from Golden Hill Fort when they were converting it into housing. Judging by their enormous size, the trees must have been two hundred years old when they were felled and must have spent another one hundred years inside the fort. It feels wonderful to give the wood a new life again.”

Feature | STYLE

Lately, Kate has also been revisiting sculptural woodwork and created a set of oversized, hollow wooden eggs, all five of which sold within days at James Lord’s Bath Road Gallery in Cowes. “At college, I did a lot of sculptural things and really enjoy shaping and blending. I used a computer program to work out the shape of each egg, then cut hoops of ply to the right diameters and glued them all together. Then to remove the pyramid-like steps between each layer I grind them off with my grinder to create a perfectly smooth surface. I’m sure the noise drives my neighbours mad, but I absolutely love the process.”

Striving for sustainable beauty

Nature and geometry inform these precision pieces

@kate_sanger_furniture katesangerfurniture.com

September and October 2023

fox&robin 1 Wheatsheaf Lane Yarmouth Isle of Wight PO41 0PF info@foxandrobiniow.co.uk

01983 760557

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

YARMOUTH GALLERY Contemporary Art & Craft

est.1997

nd us in the high street

& a great little card shop

Open 7 days a week.

NEW

Jewellery Workshops Day courses in jewellery making Group or individual bookings with discounts for 2 or more ...come and be creative

MANY BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE OBJECTS

www.yarmouthgallery.com

Cast in Solid Sterling Silver from the mould of real shells. Collections for both Men and Women.

Island & UK Artists

paintings textiles ceramics prints jewellery sculpture studio glass turned wood

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

Emily Deakock

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

Open Everyday

www.thomaspcochran.com

Art | STYLE

Above: Camels. Nikon FM3A. Fuji Acros 100, 28 mm Lens.

Style spectrum

In the hot desert, we came across these young men casually riding their camels just as we see horses on Yaverland Beach! My friend, Abdulla, was chatting in Arabic to the second rider. They offered me a ride too. I declined.

Roger Lowe

My name is Roger Lowe (@shootfilmlikeaboss), I’m an Isle of Wight based photographer and I’ve been shooting on film for over ten years. I mostly use black and white film and develop it in my darkroom in Alverstone. I also run a successful YouTube Channel dedicated to film photography. There is worldwide interest in film and the community is growing all the time. I own many classic film cameras in various formats, some are over 80 years old and they still work today! My best experience to date was in 2022 and early 2023 when I visited some friends in Bahrain

who had invited me to their country for some photowalks. They too are dedicated film shooters. The photos featured here are from that incredible trip. So, why do I shoot film? I find the whole process enjoyable, from deciding which classic camera and film to take out, to developing the film afterwards and making prints of my favourite pictures in my darkroom. Just me, some music, a red light, and the smell of chemicals. shootfilmlikeaboss.com September and October 2023

STYLE | Art

Above: Fruit Seller Nikon FM3A, Fuji Acros 100, 28mm Lens. There is a lot of hustle and haggling in the souks. They are a maze of tiny narrow streets that sell everything from spices and nuts to fake branded clothes and bags. In this picture, I noticed this fruit seller with his barrow of grapes and vegetables — one of the very few barrows I saw in the area.

Right: Traditional Bahraini Man. Nikon FM3A, Fuji Acros 100, 28mm Lens There is a famous café called ‘Haji’s’ located in the souks of Manama, the country’s capital. Outside Haji’s I saw this old man eating breakfast. I asked my friend if he could translate so I could take his portrait. Afterwards, my friend walked over and kissed the man on the head as a sign of respect. I asked why. He replied: “he is one of the few traditional Bahraini people”.

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

September and October 2023

STYLE | Art

Friday Prayer. Leica MP, Kodak Tmax 400, 50mm Lens This photograph was taken during Jum’ah (midday prayer). I was walking through the souks (their local bazaars), and I remember seeing hundreds of shop and stall workers gathering for prayer. The whole area went eerily quiet apart from the sound of the ‘call to prayer’ from the local mosques.

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

September and October 2023

STYLE | Art

Above: Pepsi Cola. Nikon FM3A, Fuji Acros 100, 28mm Lens. A couple of Bahraini men outside a coffee shop. This place looked as though it hadn’t been decorated since the 1970s with that old Pepsi sign. Once I took one photograph, all the men here seemed to want one. The smell of strong Arabic coffee and incense was amazing.

Left: Self portrait of Roger Lowe

If you would like to see your work featured in our Style Spectrum pages, please email in the first instance with two or three images only and a short description to office@styleofwight.co.uk

styleofwight.co.uk

e ll

y r

a g

l ty

f W

Feature | STYLE

Immerse yourself in art Art must be experienced if it is to reach its full potential. Our Island inspires a wealth of creators to bring their talents to life, but it is through the medium of galleries and their skilled curators that we are invited to engage, explore, and open our minds. From photography to fine art, glass to ceramics, and antiques to community creativity, the Island’s galleries are rich with stimulation for all the senses. Come with us as we visit some of the spaces and places inviting us to immerse ourselves in art.

2 5 Cowes

Ryde

Newport Freshwater

Gallery Key:

4 8

1 Dimbola Museum & Galleries 2 Cowes Gallery 3 Isle of Wight Studio Glass

3 7

Sandown

Ventnor

4 Monkton Arts 5 Kendalls Fine Art 6 Burfields Antiques 7 Tom Packham Photography 8 Seaview Art Gallery

To be a part of our Spring 2024 Guide please email christian@styleofwight.co.uk

September and October 2023

STYLE | Art

Dimbola Museum & Galleries Assuage your autumn blues this September with a visit to the latest exhibition being offered at Dimbola Museum & Galleries. Images of an Antique Land is a series of photographs by David Tunnicliffe. The images were taken during the four and a half years David and his family travelled through the ancient land of Egypt. During this time, David was resident staff photographer of the Egypt Exploration Society, but these eclectic images reflect his everyday experiences. They capture the life, landscape, history and culture of this biblical and mysterious land. David Tunnicliffe’s photographs reveal the physicality and excitement of an Egypt that is both modern and also, without interruption, ancient. The exhibition runs from September 23rd to the end of the year. While at Dimbola Museum & Galleries, make sure to pop into the permanent exhibition to Julia Margaret Cameron, who lived and photographed in the house from 1860 to 1875. This includes a recreation of her bedroom and an exhibition room dedicated to the 1970 Isle of Wight Festival, which was held up the road at Afton Farm. Remember to visit the tearoom for delicious homemade cakes, cream teas, light lunches and quality teas and coffees. Email: admin@dimbola.co.uk | Phone: 01983 756 814 | Address: Dimbola Museum & Galleries, Terrace Lane, Freshwater Bay, PO40 9QE | Website: dimbola.co.uk Social Handles: @dimbolamuseum #dimbolamuseum

Photos copyright David Tunnicliffe

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

Cowes Gallery Nestled amongst the high-end boutiques of the Isle of Wight’s yachting mecca of Cowes, visitors will find a haven for art lovers and enthusiasts. Cowes Gallery beckons patrons with a diverse collection of pieces that showcase a range of British and international artists. For obvious reasons, many Isle of Wight galleries focus on majestic yachting pieces, and Cowes Gallery features plenty of these. Skillfully depicting sleek lines and billowing sails, with each brushstroke the nautical masterpieces displayed convey a sense of movement combined with the timeless allure of the open sea. But Cowes Gallery is nothing if not surprising in the unexpected pieces it displays. Guests will also find colourful cityscape paintings, traditional rural landscapes, contemporary abstracts and intricate crafts including exquisite ceramics and delicate glasswork that captures light and imagination. Each piece at Cowes Gallery is thoughtfully chosen with the aim of offering clients the opportunity to acquire a unique work of art from a vibrant gallery on a small English island. Email: contact@aalondongallery.com | Phone: 07775 875 790 Address: 75 High Street, Cowes, PO31 7AJ | Website: aalondongallery.com Social Handles: @cowes_gallery #cowes_gallery

September and October 2023

STYLE | Art

Isle of Wight Studio Glass 2023 marks a big year for Isle of Wight Studio Glass 1973-2023 - renowned for its decorative and functional glass incorporating colour, sterling silver and 22ct gold leaf. This year the Studio will hit an astonishing 50 years in the Industry. The studio has battled the ongoing energy crisis which is so badly affecting the sector making changes to cut its own energy usage maintaining its global prominence in studio glass, to stand as a testament to half a century of artistic innovation. Founded by Michael Harris, a pioneering designer and glassmaker, the studio navigates challenges and triumphs, continually shaping the landscape of studio glass. Michael’s legacy lives on through his elder son Timothy who’s artistic passion seamlessly carries forward tradition with the studio, whilst continuing to push creative boundaries, with forms, colour and textures earning him accolades and recognition as an internationally renowned glassmaker and designer. The studio’s rich history intertwines with contemporary creations, reflecting a remarkable journey that has contributed significantly to the world of artistic craftsmanship. As the studio commemorates its 50th anniversary, a celebratory weekend featuring contemporary works inspired by original designs will take place, underscoring the studio’s constant, “in pursuit of excellence”. Email: info@isleofwightstudioglass.co.uk | Phone: tel:01983 522 339 | Address: Isle of Wight Studio Glass, Arreton Barns Craft Village, Main Road, Arreton, PO30 3AA | Website: isleofwightstudioglass.com Social Handles: @isleofwightstudioglassltd #isleofwightstudioglassltd

Monkton Arts Nestled in Monkton Village on the back streets of Ryde, Monkton Arts is a hub for creativity and community. Since 2019, it has hosted two public art galleries with changing exhibitions every fortnight, a shop selling Island art and gifts, and studios where visitors can see five resident artists at work or join in with an art group. The centre also features regular live music acts and a thriving café and bar open till 9pm Wednesday evenings. With a commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering a welcoming environment, Monkton Arts has developed a partnership with Montage Place where they organise monthly art markets and have also taken on the underlease of Appley Tower. Once renovated and saved by Natural Enterprise, they will begin spreading the community work that they do in the background to this local arts centre. Monkton Arts is often described as a must-visit hidden gem. For more information, visit the Monkton Arts website. Email: monktonarts@gmail.com | Phone: 07490 486 356 | Address:11 East Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 1JP Website: monktonarts.co.uk | Social Handles: @monkton_arts #monkton_arts

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

Kendalls Fine Art Kendalls Fine Art specialises in high-quality contemporary and traditional marine art. Their extensive collection of original paintings and sculptures comes from an ever-changing selection of more than 60 artists, including well-known British and international names as well as local Isle of Wight talent. Despite this diversity, the pieces showcased in their Cowes gallery all have one thing in common - they are imbued with a love of the sea, evocatively representing the mesmerising variation of waves, light and landscape experienced both on the water and shore. Kendall’s pieces are chosen for the sense of freedom, well-being and space that successful seascapes, harbour views and traditional yacht portraits capture. From large contemporary statement pieces to delicate studies of light on water, an original Kendalls Fine Art piece will delight for years to come. Email: gallery@kendallsfineart.co.uk | Phone: 01983 281 414 Address: Bath Road, Cowes, PO31 7QN | Website: kendallsfineart.co.uk Social Handles: @kendallsfineart #kendalls_fine_art

September and October 2023

STYLE | Art

Burfields Antiques Art and Design Burfields Antiques Art & Design have been an established Isle of Wight business for over 40 years. Run by Peter and Jackie Burfield, their two showrooms have become a staple in the seaside town of Ventnor over the past 15 years. With a good selection of well-chosen antiques dating from the 17th century onwards, the walls are filled with 21st-century contemporary art (mainly by local artists) creating a stylish mix with the emphasis always on quality. With its forever-changing landscape, sea and coastline, the Island obviously has plenty of inspiration for artists. The passion and energy always come across in the artists’ work, and with the gallery showcasing different mediums including all subject matters and art styles, Jackie likes to think there is something to suit all tastes. Work from local artists that can be found at Burfields includes textile art, studio pottery, sculpture, lighting, art prints, photography, artisan jewellery and art cards.The vibrancy of modern art alongside classic and decorative antiques at Burfields creates an uplifting balance of interior design. Email: jackie@burfieldsantiquesandart.co.uk | Phone: 01983 853 909 Address: 38 High St, Ventnor, PO38 1RZ | Website: burfieldsantiquesandart.co.uk Social Handles: #burfields_antiques_

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

To see this stunning image of Tom’s in full turn to page 54

Tom Packham Photography When examining the expansive nature of Tom Packham’s photography, it is difficult to believe he has only been involved in the industry for barely a year, but during this time he’s developed an intense passion for the art form and his talent is obvious. Many artists are inspired by the Isle of Wight, and Tom in particular describes it as a photographer’s utopia, teeming with an abundance of breathtaking locations. Among these, St Catherine’s Oratory holds a special place in his images. Why? It offers serenity, tranquillity and a deep quiet during his favourite working hours of the night. These elements are essential in Tom’s photography as, among other things, he specialises in capturing the expanses of space, crafting mesmerising images of the Milky Way and deeper space. Some of these compositions demand as much as six hours of exposure time, a testament to his dedication. Intrigued by the challenge of reimagining frequently photographed Island locales, Tom strives to infuse each image with his own distinct style, ensuring every photograph radiates a unique atmosphere. Email: tom@tompackhamphotography.co.uk | Phone: 07855 370 827 | Address: 44 High St, Ventnor, PO38 1LT Website: tompackhamphotography.co.uk | Social Handles: @tompackhamphotography #tompackhamphotography

Seaview Art Gallery The award-winning Seaview Art Gallery champions and shows the very best Island artists as well as those with a connection to and love for the Island. Situated in picturesque Seaview, the quintessential village by the sea, Linda Groves has owned the gallery space for eight years and also has a selection of jewellery and antiques in stock. “A number of our artists belong to societies or are award-winning. It’s a pleasure to see all the artists’ work change and evolve as their careers take off and develop. Our aim has always been to be the no.1 port of call for contemporary marine art, Island views and large decorative pieces.” At Seaview Art Gallery, purchasing art is a personal experience. Linda says, “I often compare owning a gallery to running a dating agency - you have to fall in love enough with a piece to want to take it home and live with it. Matching the piece to the person is such a great feeling for both the gallery and the artist.” Seaview Art Gallery is a friendly space with amazing artists and great customer service at its heart. Pop in for a visit or take a look at the website. Email: seaviewartgallery@gmail.com | Phone: 01983 810 480 | Address: 4 High Street, Seaview, Isle of Wight, PO34 5ES | Website: seaviewart.co.uk | Social Handles: @seaviewartgalleryiow #seaviewartgalleryiow

September and October 2023

STYLE | Art

Ma ke It Persona l at

Thomas P. Cochra n Jeweller y

ngagement rings, charm bracelets, lockets — jewellery often holds a special place in our hearts. Many pieces become family heirlooms as they are passed down from generation to generation, but if you want to infuse your next piece with something extra special, what better way than to make it yourself? Thomas P. Cochran Jewellers in Arreton Barns is giving visitors the chance to do just that.

Specialising in meticulously capturing the natural world in silver, the business is family run and their new jewellery-making classes are the brainchild of the charmingly knowledgeable oldest son, Tom. Organised in a dedicated workshop within the bright and cheery store itself, classes are suitable for absolute beginners. Be sure to ask any questions about where the Cochran designers get their inspiration and the hands-on way they have discovered the best methods of manipulating their materials to capture the essence of our beautiful coastlines. Workshop guests begin with a simple strip of silver and are supplied with all the tools necessary to miraculously turn this into a ring that will capture the maker’s creativity in a way no off-the-shelf purchase could. Shaping, hammering, smouldering, filing, and oxidising — and a little dash of maths thrown in to keep you on your toes — Tom guides his guests through the entire process without taking over, dropping in a little pointer here or a positive word there. This means that a guest’s finished product is truly their own work — what could be a better gift for someone special? Or make it for yourself as a keepsake of the Island! Currently offering classes to make a choice of ring styles, Tom is expanding classes in the future to include bracelet making and cuttlefish casting.

styleofwight.co.uk

Art | STYLE

For more information on how to take part and the types of pieces you can create, visit tomsjewelleryworkshop.com or email Tom directly at thomas@thomaspcochran.com

September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

F O L L O W IN G

A Hundred Years at Briddlesford Farm Words: James Rayner | Photos: Julian Winslow Stretching from the rippling waters of Palmer’s Brook, south to Blacklands Lane and north to the old railway line that once ran from Ryde into Newport, is Briddlesford Farm. Set across 200 acres of lush green fields just outside Wootton, here the Griffin family’s 140-strong herd of white and caramel-coloured Guernsey cattle graze, whilst wheat and maize are cultivated nearby to feed them in winter. Today we’ve taken a seat in a snug corner of the farm’s on-site café to meet Paul Griffin and wife Chris, almost a hundred years to the day since Paul’s great-grandfather Charles walked his cows over the Downs from Grove Farm in Adgestone to take on the tenancy at Briddlesford.

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

T H E

HERD

September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Climbing back through the family tree, Briddlesford has been owned by the Griffins for a hundred years

hile the centenary is a milestone in itself, the family’s Isle of Wight agricultural roots stretch back even further, to Anne Peach, who married into the family in 1839 and sold butter around Shanklin until she’d made enough for husband Frank Griffin to afford his first farm tenancy. Now, in 2023, we’re chatting in a tastefully converted former cowhouse, sipping freshly made coffee, topped up with a splash of Briddlesford milk. You’d never guess just how many unbelievably difficult challenges they’ve faced over the years, but they’re still here, still smiling, and still just as passionate about their farm as ever. “I started milking at the age of ten,” Paul tells

styleofwight.co.uk

us, “Using an old machine from the 1950s. We only had about 70 or 80 cows back then. As I grew up, I decided to go to Agricultural College in Newcastle, where I learned a lot, but I’ve probably learned more on the job since. Then, I wanted to go travelling so got myself to Australia and started looking for farm work. I began fruit picking and camped and hitchhiked my way down the east coast of Australia. I landed in New Zealand in autumn 1989 and started working at a dairy farm near Helensville, 19 days on, 2 days off, starting at 5 a.m. each morning.” By the mid-90s, Paul was back at Briddlesford taking on more and more responsibility from his dad, which is when they faced their first big challenge. It was the age of ‘milk quotas’ and the EU’s Common Agricultural Policy was attempting to solve the problem

of food surpluses by making farmers scale back their production by 20%. If they wanted to produce more volume, they had to buy more quota, which became an expensive necessity for the family over the following ten years. Meanwhile, Paul increased the herd, made the farm more efficient, and built a new state-of-the-art ‘cow palace’ with facilities to milk, feed, and sleep up to 130 cows. However, the milk price soon began to fall, and the herd struggled to remain profitable. “We realised we needed to get control of the milk price, and to do that, we needed to reconnect with the local market. In 2005, the old dairy became a farm shop, run by my sister Louise, selling our milk and other local produce, and it turned out to be an instant success. Building on that, we then turned the empty cow housing into our Bluebells Café. Luckily my wife Chris, who used to be a teacher, was looking for a career change, so she took the reins of the café and started doing farm walks for children and educational tours too.”

Feature | STYLE

Morning sky above the hop kilns, as a new day at the farm begins

The couple first met at the Three Crowns in Cowes when Paul was in a band — “the worst thing that ever happened to her,” he jokes. They processed milk on their wedding day and had an escaped bull to contend with on their wedding night. The pair then had a three-day honeymoon in Bath (as Paul wanted to get back for the haymaking) but we hear that a proper honeymoon is still on the cards at some point in the future. Briddlesford now produces 800,000 litres of milk a year, all of which is processed on-site in their solar-panel-topped milk factory, built in 2012. “That was another challenge” Paul explains, “as the banks weren’t very sympathetic. We built it but couldn’t afford to fit it out, so it stood empty for three years! We eventually got finance from private investors and some good friends on the Island. After we built it though, the milk wholesalers wouldn’t touch us. They wouldn’t even take a litre! The first winter was horrendous, we thought we’d lose everything, but luckily our cream was picked up by Medina Food

Guernsey cows are prized for their rich and creamy milk, for many it’s love at first sip

September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Briddlesford’s original dairy - converted into a well-stocked farm shop in 2005 Service and WightLink started buying our semi-skimmed milk. Now we sell every drop of our milk direct, and it has secured the herd long into the future.” Aside from the milk and cream, Briddlesford has also started to make a name for itself with its award-winning range of artisan cheeses. From a silky smooth Gouda (Paul’s favourite), to a nutty Briddlesford Red and a light, crumbly ‘Fetter’. Amongst their fans is the TV chef James Martin, who has used their cheddar in a recipe for Isle of Wight Double-Bake Cheese Soufflés. They’ve also found favour with high-end British burger chain Honest Burgers, who put on specials that include crisp, fried slices of Briddlesford Halloumi. “Their last order was for 1.8 tonnes,” Chris tells us, “and Charlie and Gary were working twenty-hour days in the dairy to fulfil it!” As they get ready to celebrate their centenary, the farm has also planned a ‘Sustainability September’ to build on all the good eco-friendly moves they’ve made already. From cutting hedges once every two years (to give biannual wildflowers a chance to flourish) to adding biodiversity buffer strips and swapping some of their packaging from plastic to glass or biodegradable materials instead. They

styleofwight.co.uk

From a silky smooth Gouda to a light, crumbly Fetter, word is spreading about the farm’s award-winning cheeses now supply thousands of customers with doorstep deliveries of milk in reusable glass bottles too, delivered and collected by Adam Burrows of the Island Dairy Service. Each bottle is then returned to the farm, washed, sterilised, and refilled for the next time. Just before we leave, there’s one more thing Chris wants to show us in their farm shop butchery, a brand new (and very sustainable) product — ex-dairy Guernsey beef. Traditionally considered tough and usually wasted, this type of meat is starting

to become popular amongst chefs such as Tom Fahey at The Terrace, who prize it for its rich flavour when it’s thinly sliced and slow-cooked. Coming from the farm’s dairy cows once they’ve reached the end of their milk-producing life, it’s an efficient use of resources, plus the cows get a few extra months out in the pastures too. “We know how important it is for farms to work in balance with the environment,” Chris tells us, “and we’re very proud of everything we’ve achieved so far.”

Feature | STYLE

A few faces from the last remaining herd of Guernsey cattle on the Isle of Wight

September and October 2023

STYLE | Food

Home

By Ch r istia n Wa r ren

The Isle of Wight is my castle, and I often feel as privileged as a King to say this is my home. The easy interpretation of home might be to equate it as the space we live in, whether that space lies within the walls of an imposing Victorian town house, a cosy apartment, or even a castle with its own moat. But your true home has a broader, more spiritual connotation. It embodies a magical, intangible feeling of cosiness and familiarity that goes far beyond the four brick walls. It is the place where you feel that you belong, usually because your ideas or attitudes align with those of the people who live there, and

styleofwight.co.uk

it is the very persona of the Isle of Wight that made me consciously choose this little rock as my home. There is a spiritual community on The Isle of Wight that you can only truly understand once you have lived here. It is important that we as a community protect these values, but also that we identify them and champion them, rather than keeping them hidden or shying away from our identity. I have personally seen a deep and powerful

creative current emerging from our shores and, as we hope to protect our home, I believe this creativity has the potential to be our identity. A place where a collective of like-minded individuals can really make an impact on the local community. If we can get our house in order, then we stand a very good chance of attracting other innovative and creatively minded individuals to our shores to join us in calling this place their home.

Food | STYLE

Picture ‘Carisbrooke Castle Misty Sunrise 2’ By Tom Packham, tompackhamphotography.co.uk September and October 2023

DIVE IN

Food | STYLE

Mermaid Gin Cocktails Try this drizzled concoction using nature’s bounty. Created by cocktail connoisseur Dick Bradsell (also responsible for the Espresso Martini) and inspired by childhood memories of picking blackberries on the Isle of Wight.

BAC K TO THE ISLAND

INGREDIENTS

GARNISH

Long, layered and fruity, dig your feet into the sand and enjoy on a sun-soaked day.

50ml Mermaid Pink Gin

A lemon slice and blackberry

TASTE

10ml Sugar Syrup

Fruity, sweet & sour

25ml Lemon Juice

10ml Crème de Mure

METHOD: Shake the first three ingredients with ice and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice. Top with more crushed ice and drizzle over the Crème De Mure. Garnish with a blackberry and lemon slice

September and October 2023

STYLE | Food

The Season of Mists and Mellow Tastiness As the last rays of summer slowly slip away and the crunchy leaves of autumn descend upon us, it’s time to enjoy the best food and drink that the new season has to offer — from freshly roasted special-edition coffee to cockle-warming pork dishes and everything in between. The Island’s culinary scene never fails to offer something new, so come with us as we sip, sample, and savour this autumn’s newest local flavours.

Roast with the Most If your autumn just wouldn’t be complete without a hearty meal in a cosy pub, then sit yourself on a settle at the Village Inn in Shanklin. Here, we’d highly recommend the pork belly, slow-cooked for several hours with honey, cider, garlic, and a sprinkle of thyme. Served with a choice of dauphinoise or creamy mashed potato, it pairs perfectly with a pint of Inch’s Cider (from Herefordshire) or an ice-cold glass of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (from New Zealand). Plus, being a historic stone pub, surrounded by rustic thatched cottages, the setting couldn’t be more charming either. Village Inn, Church Road, Shanklin, PO37 6NU

styleofwight.co.uk

Food | STYLE

Holy Mackerel Let’s start things off at The Hambrough, where Executive Chef (and Menu of the Year Award nominee) Matt Tomkinson has just added a smoky new dish to the freshly printed menus. Plated to perfection as always, the Rillette of Home-Smoked Cornish Mackerel looks almost too good to eat, with a smooth cucumber and shiso leaf chutney served to accompany it. As always, The Hambrough kitchen goes above and beyond, with the puff pastry made on-site by Matt’s number two Craig, and the quenelle of creamy crème fraîche cultured by their fair hands too. What more could you ask for?

thehambrough.com

September and October 2023

STYLE | Food

Thai Spice and All Things Nice Over in the kitchens of the Ventnor Botanic Gardens, the scent of freshly sizzled spices hints at a new batch of bake-at-home meals being prepared by their skilful chefs. Amongst the favourites for this time of year is the warming Thai Chickpea Curry, described as ‘bold, fragrant and utterly delicious’. Using garden-grown ingredients and flash frozen to lock in the flavour, it’s delivered direct to your door — so no need to dig out that pac-a-mac and brave the autumn showers just yet.

botanic.co.uk

styleofwight.co.uk

Hasta La Barista! If your usual coffee just isn’t hitting the spot like it used to, then brew something new, in the form of Island Roasted’s latest single-origin coffee. Lightly roasted in Newport, with hints of apricot, mango, and honey, the Ethiopia Shantawina is the perfect option for your warming autumnal americanos or chilly evening cappuccinos. Grown in the cool highlands of Bensa in southern Ethiopia, these heirloom coffee beans are cultivated by former finance officer Tomas Graorama, who then dries them on-site before shipping them off to the Island Roasted factory on the banks of the River Medina. Ground to suit espresso machines, moka pots, or cafetières, you can find it online as well as lining the shelves of Caffè Isola.

islandroasted.co.uk

Food | STYLE

Ahead of its Game With game season getting underway, head to the sleek, sophisticated, and immensely cosy Heron Restaurant in Ryde’s Castle Street, where partridge from Cheverton Farm is soon to hit the menu. Sourced directly from the gamekeeper, and travelling just 11 miles from field to fork, it makes a great choice to celebrate the best of autumnal eating on the Island. Alongside the partridge, you’ll find a chive and chestnut croquette, a glazed fig and butter confit leg as well as baby leek and a garnish of ‘grown underground’ micro-watercress too.

heroniow.co.uk

Prawn To Be Wild If your autumnal activities take you in the direction of Cowes, then don’t miss a chance to slip in through the doors of Gastronomy and get yourself comfortable on their oh-so-sinkable banquettes. Known for their Asian specialities here (from Korean Chilli Cheese Fries to Teriyaki Chicken Tenders) their latest culinary creation hails from somewhere a bit closer to home, offering a seasonal flavour from the Italian south. Warming, hearty, and just the thing when there’s a nip in the air, their ‘Nduja Mussels and Prawns combines top-notch seafood with spicy Calabrian sausage and a background note of fragrant Isle of Wight garlic.

gastronomycowes.co.uk September and October 2023

The Old Village Shanklin Isle of Wight PO37 6NU

Telephone (01983) 865500

Extensive Menu Serving Quality Dishes Home Cooked Sunday Roasts Real Ales & Live Music Try Our Homemade Cakes & Afternoon Cream Teas Served ALL YEAR! The Old Village SHANKLIN Isle of Wight PO37 6NU Tel. (01983) 865500

A Q U i TA N i A AT T H E S E AV i E W H O T E L The Aquitania is an intimate restaurant located at the front of the hotel that combines good food with modern unfussy service. The food offering features an array of local food. The style is very Modern British with a regional Isle of Wight twist. Our Chefs work hand-in-hand with many local producers crafting dishes such as Green Barn Farm goats cheese souffle with watercress veloute that is simply a taste of the Wight. The Aquitania has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes over six consecutive years.

To book a table call: 01983 612711 Address: The High Street, Seaview, Isle of Wight, England, PO34 5EX E-mail: reception@seaviewhotel.co.uk

A VISIT TO THE GARLIC FARM RESTAURANT Autumn is a great time to get outside for a warming walk and what better way to finish off than at The Garlic Farm Restaurant – where you can enjoy exceptional gourmet food in the award-winning restaurant and take a stroll in some their beautiful outdoor spaces. Or, if cycling is more your thing, they are situated on one of the Island’s most popular cycle trails – perfect for families and more energetic explorers.The Nag Stable is a separate dining space at the back of the restaurant. It is one of the oldest buildings

at the farm and still features the original mangers and stable ladders from its previous ‘nag’ occupants. This is a characterful and cosy space with a stable door providing access directly to the outside area. You can book ‘The Nag Stable’ for a private lunch party, breakfast with friends, or business meeting, with seating for up to 30 people.

from live music gigs to opera evenings, workshops to art exhibitions. No reservation is required to visit the shop and the main site is free to enter. Dogs are welcome too and must be kept on leads at all times on this working farm. Reservations are recommended for the restaurant.

What’s On At The Garlic Farm...

Visit their website for up-to-date details. thegarlicfarm.co.uk

As well as being open daily they host a regular events calendar featuring everything

For group bookings in The Nag Stable please email: hello@thegarlicfarm.co.uk

3 PROPER PUBS • 3 GREAT WALKS THE BARGEMAN’S REST NEWPORT

THE DAIRYMAN’S DAUGHTER ARRETON BARNS

THE STEAMER INN SHANKLIN

STYLE | Food

By Em ma Rober ts Photos by Sam Scadgell

AUTUMNAL WALKS & ISLAND PUBS

You’re never too far from an excellent pub on the Isle of Wight. Whether you fancy a gastro-pub for a full meal or want to enjoy a pint while taking in the view, you’ll have plenty of opportunities on our beautiful Island. 64

styleofwight.co.uk

Food | STYLE

Every bracing autumnal walk should end in a proper pub. When standing at the bar with rosy cheeks and chilly fingers there’s nothing quite like spying that coveted seat by the fireplace. The Dairyman’s Daughter in Arreton Barns is a proper country pub complete with authentic memorabilia. The three-mile walk around Arreton is flat, and should take no more than ninety minutes. It’s the perfect way to work up an appetite. If you’re in our county town of Newport and need to stretch your legs, the Cowes to Newport cycle path is a popular route. With The Bargeman’s Rest at the end of it, situated on the side of the Medina, it

feels like a reward for burning those extra calories. However, there is something about a seaside stroll and the sea air filling your lungs that makes you hungry. After your meander along Shanklin Seafront a stop at The Steamer is on the cards. Sea views, comfy seats, and a warm welcome, well why wouldn’t you? As you walk along Shanklin Esplanade the wind, on a chilly autumn day, can either feel like pins and needles on your face or just have that slight ‘fresh edge’ that has you reaching for a wrap rather than a coat.

At the end of the promenade, quietly nestled at the foot of the Isle of Wight’s most historic attraction, Shanklin Chine, you will find the Fisherman’s Cottage, a quaint little pub that literally sits on the beach. The pub itself is traditional in its look, with flagstone floors and exposed beams. Browse the menu and daily specials board for something warming and hearty to fill you up after your beachside stroll. The pub serves everything from sandwiches and jacket potatoes to the delicious moules mariniere and the Fisherman’s famous fish pie. On Sundays the home-cooked roast dinners are an autumn/winter warmer treat. Match that with a pint of the pub’s very own

September and October 2023

STYLE | Food

beer, Fisherman’s Brew, from local brewery Yates’, or a glass of fine wine from the handpicked wine menu, and you’re sure to feel satiated before you start your journey. Make a trip to the end of Shanklin Esplanade last a full afternoon with a visit to Shanklin Chine. A historic tree-lined gorge with an amazing main waterfall, tumbling down the cliff edge from 45 feet. There’s a second waterfall, which is equally pretty, falling from 29 feet. As you reach the top of the Chine, make your way out and explore the rest of Shanklin and the old village where you’ll find another superb thatched roof pub – The Village Inn.

styleofwight.co.uk

Holding onto its old-world charm and with a warm and friendly atmosphere, you’ll discover traditional pub food and real ales. Homemade pies are all handmade in the kitchen with real ale – Steak and Ale is a firm favourite on the menu. Chilled, laid-back entertainment regularly takes place in the evenings, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their Facebook page for details so you don’t miss out. For those warmer Autumn days, there’s a lovely courtyard area too if you’d prefer to sit in the fresh air. If taking a stroll through Fishbourne, nestled among trees along the shore is Quarr Abbey – offering visitors the chance to wander around the grounds and experience the

tranquil atmosphere. After spending time at the Abbey, take a 15-minute stroll to The Fishbourne Inn to sample their superb selection of fine wines and smooth ales. Situated close to the sea on the banks of Wootton Creek, this charming 1900s country pub is packed with character and guarantees a warm and friendly welcome. Another of our favourite seaside walks is at low tide taking a stroll from St Helens to Seaview and finishing with a visit to the Pump Bar within the Seaview Hotel. Entering the Pump Bar is like taking a step back in time! This traditional, time-honoured, old-style seaside pub can be found alongside a

Food | STYLE

fine dining restaurant and within an award-winning and highly esteemed hotel. Quirky, unique and certainly out of the ordinary, the Pump Bar offers variety which, in this case indeed, is truly the spice of life! With flagstones, floorboards, walls adorned with centuries of naval history and nautical themes, the Pump Bar is absolutely packed with character and charm. You can fine dine in the Pump Bar or enjoy pub grub from the award-winning chefs. The hotel has been awarded 2 AA rosettes for seven consecutive years, as well as a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its good quality and good value cooking. All its dishes incorporate the freshest, tastiest, and most incredible range of local produce.

Make sure you keep an eye out for their special deals too – Monday: Curry night, Thursday: Steak night, and Friday: Fish & Chips night – All £21 per couple. Finally, the four-mile circular walk around Bonchurch by the coast and over the downs with a stop at The Bonchurch Inn is our last recommendation for you. You’ll find Victorian villas, a pretty village, ancient woodlands, a Norman church, beaches, and a fishing harbour!

the Bonchurch Inn, with the name appearing in Kelly’s Directory of 1924/25. With the invention of the motor car, the stables and coach houses were no longer needed. The Tap was moved over the courtyard and became The Bonchurch Inn. There is now a main bar and a family room, with an outdoor eating area for the summer months. Very little has changed at the Bonchurch Inn, making it one of the most unspoilt pubs on the Isle of Wight.

The Bonchurch Inn is home of the ‘Life Changing Lasagne’! It began life as the Tap of the Bonchurch Family Hotel. The history of the building goes back to the early 1840s to Bonchurch carpenter Jonathan Jolliffe. The Tap continued in operation, becoming

September and October 2023

The Heron’s talented and masterful chefs, led by Alex Kimber and his team, have a passion for creating a unique and memorable dining experience. We are proud to boast all our fresh ingredients are locally sourced to ensure our delectable dishes reflect the season. Let us take you on a culinary journey of dining excellence, which has been recognised by our AA Award.

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Heron Lounge. A Cocktail Bar with live music and entertainment every Saturday evening plus a choice of small dishes at lunchtime from the Heron's kitchen. Our full story and opening times : www.heroniow.co.uk RESERVATIONS Call: 01983 567192 Email: booking-heroniow@outlook.com 2 Castle Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight. PO33 2EP @heron_iow

The pub on the beach

OPEN UNTIL 30 th NOV *WEATHER PERMITTING*

Conveniently nestled beneath Shanklin Chine and right on the beach at the end of Shanklin Esplanade, Fisherman’s Cottage Inn is the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast,lunch or dinner, including Sunday roasts.

fishermanscottagenn.co.uk | 01983 863882 bookings@shanklinchine.co.uk | PO37 6BN

CLICK HERE

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

Food | STYLE

Cavolo Nero

With Wi l l Stewa rd, Liv i ng La rder Cavolo Nero, or black cabbage as its name translates, is a popular Italian leaf from the brassica family that is very tolerant of frost and cold weather – not as hardy as kale but similar in characteristics. Available for much of the summer and autumn, we think it is at its best from September through to November when the leaves remain soft from the summer growth and our cooking turns more hearty. Great in soups and broths or the famous Tuscan dish of ‘Ribollita’ for which it is most well-known. When cooking for the first time don’t forget to remove the mid-rib.

Cavolo Nero Braised with Chickpeas Ingredients: 2 tins of chickpeas 100ml extra-virgin olive oil – a lot but it really adds to the flavour 50g mild pancetta, diced, or use Nunwell Home Farm streaky bacon 2 celery stalks, diced 1 onion, finely chopped 5 garlic cloves, grated 200ml chicken stock 400g fresh, ripe tomatoes

Method: Heat the oil in a sturdy saucepan over a medium heat, add pancetta, celery, onion and garlic and stir occasionally until soft. Add the chickpeas, tomato, rosemary and chilli, season well to taste, cover and cook on a medium heat until the tomatoes are broken down. Stir in the cavolo nero and the stock and continue to cook on a slightly higher heat until the stock is reduced and the cavolo nero is soft (20-30 minutes). Serve hot on its own with sourdough, or with mashed potatoes and sausages.

2 sprigs of rosemary Pinch of chilli flakes 1 bunch cavolo nero, coarsely chopped, mid-rib removed.

Living Larder is a family-owned, Soil Association certified Organic farm. supplying local fruit and vegetable boxes. livinglarder.co.uk | Instagram: @livinglarder September and October 2023

INTRODUCING MULTI-AWARD WINNING EXECUTIVE CHEF Matthew Tomkinson LUNCH

Wednesday to Saturday

DINNER

Tuesday to Saturday

GARDEN

Open daily subject to weather

BAR

Open daily from 11am

Hambrough Road, Ventnor, PO38 1SQ Tel.01983 856333 www.thehambrough.com

VBG@Home Your garden designed, sourced, built and planted by Ventnor Botanic Garden

botanic.co.uk/about/vbghome | 01983 855397 | info@botanic.co.uk

Food | STYLE

Style Kitchen Masterclass Duck Three Ways: Duck Breast, Duck Leg Confit, Duck Liver Parfait

By Joel Yearsley of The Boathouse, Seaview Photos by Julian Winslow September and October 2023

STYLE | Food

Duck Three Ways: Duck Breast, Duck Leg Confit, Duck Liver Parfait Ingredients 1 Whole Wild Duck (Butchered) 100ml Mermaid Spiced Rum 500ml 3% Brine Solution (or make your own with 500ml of water and 15g of sea salt)

4 Bay Leaves

A Raw Beetroot

500ml Duck Fat

1 Bulb of Garlic

2 Filo Pastr y Sheets

1 Shallot

2kg Désirée Potatoes

1 tsp Chinese Five Spice

250g Salted Butter

1 Pinch of Cumin Seeds

A Bunch of Heritage Carrots

Equipment Cylindrical Pastr y Mould

3. Once the butter has clarified,

4. Place the beetroot in a pan with water and boil until sof t. Then place into a blender and blend to a smooth purée.

50g Wight Salt

Method:

1. Firstly, for the duck leg confit,

fill a large roasting tray with your duck fat, two bay leaves, the Chinese five spice, cumin seeds and garlic. Add the two duck legs, cover with foil and roast in a preheated oven at 120°C for around 2.5 hours (or until tender).

2. While the duck legs are

cooking, you need to star t the Pommes Anna. Begin by placing your block of butter in a pan to star t to clarif y (separating the milk solids from the butter to give a richer, clearer result).

styleofwight.co.uk

peel your potatoes and slice them as thinly as possible (ideally with a mandolin). Once sliced, wash under cold water to remove the starch, then pat dr y. Now you can star t to layer the potatoes in a greased baking tray, brushing on clarified butter af ter each layer and adding a sprinkle of salt, until all the potato slices have been used. Cover with parchment and foil and bake in the oven at 180°C for 30 - 35 minutes. Once cooked, leave in the fridge under a weight to ensure a true set.

5. Dice the shallot and place in

a pan to sweat off with as little colour as possible. Add 50g of butter and cook until melted. Add your duck liver and 50ml of rum and cook until the liver has browned. Place the cooked mix ture in a blender until smooth and then spoon into a piping bag ready for plating.

Food | STYLE

Chef Tip #1

Chef Tip #2

Always star t duck breast scored and in a cold pan. It stops the duck buckling in the pan and the slow introduction of heat allows the fat to render more slowly, giving a crisp, fat-free finish.

Always allow your protein to rest for at least the time you have cooked it for. This stops the flavour (and juices) leaving the meat, keeping it tender and flavour ful.

6. Once the duck legs are confit, remove the fat from the outside and shred the meat until you get a pulled consistency. Then set aside. Lay out one sheet of filo pastr y and brush with butter. Lay another sheet on top and brush again. Trim the edges so they are square and fit around the cylindrical mould. Roll the pastr y around the mould and bake at 170°C for 7 minutes. 7. An hour before you plan to

ser ve the duck breast, soak it in the Mermaid Rum and brine solution for 30 minutes. Pan sear

the duck, star ting off fat side down in a dr y cold pan. Once the fat has rendered nicely and coloured all around the breast, place in a 180°C oven for five minutes and allow to rest for a fur ther 5 minutes at least. Whilst the duck is cooking, place heritage carrots in a pan of boiling water and cook until tender.

8. Ser vice time. Fill the filo cigar with the confit duck leg meat. Trim the edges of the breast to show the beautiful blushing

centre. Por tion the Pommes Anna potato into rings and gently shallow fr y until coloured on all sides. Trim your carrots and halve.

9. To plate, swipe your beetroot purée across the plate and place the Pommes Anna with the rested duck breast in the middle. Decorate with heritage carrots before piping a line of duck liver par fait onto the plate. Finally, sit your filled filo on top and finish with the resting juices from the duck.

September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

The Style of Wight Guide to

Homes & Interiors With the 2023 edition of the Isle of Wight Homes and Interiors Show well on its way, we thought it was the perfect time to take a quick tour around our friends and partners in the industry - from soft furnishings in Lake and floorings in Newport to a vintage furniture seller in Ryde and well-loved art gallery in Yarmouth. We’ve also got two guestwritten pieces from our architectural friends at Modh Design and ERMC, as well as the full low-down on what’s to come with this year’s bigger, better and shinier than ever Isle of Wight Homes and Interiors Show. So, roll up those sleeves, pop those browsing glasses on and get ready to be inspired.

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Acacia Bay

‘An emporium of unexpected delights’ is how the owners of Acacia Bay describe their one-of-a-kind shop, and stepping through the doors to take a look, that’s just what you’ll find. Set on the gentle slope of Shanklin High Street, Acacia Bay has made a name for itself with its natural (and often quite sustainable) home accessories, made from materials including bamboo, jute, linen or rattan. Curated by owners Richard and Lesley, the simple, laid-back styling and earthy hues of their products have become something of a trademark, and one that’s certainly catching on locally.

‘Alongside our home accessory store, which we’ve been working hard to make into a space that inspires, we’ve also secured our dream location which we’ve started to transform into The Acacia Bay Woodland. There will be two cabins, available to rent for relaxing getaways, and we’re also hoping to offer a coffee shop, amongst the ancient woodland and scampering squirrels’.

Whilst their Shanklin shop is the place to be for picking up rattan peacock chairs and elegant soft furnishings, the couple have also been busy taking their brand in a new direction, as Lesley explains.

Keep an eye on our upcoming editions for further details. acaciabayiow.co.uk September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Bayliss & Booth

You can never go wrong with a trip to Bayliss and Booth, where antique trunks, sophisticated dining ware and statement ceramics (including glossy British-made ‘Gluggle Jugs’) come together in their immaculate Wootton showroom. Amongst the latest new season arrivals sourced by interiors-loving couple Peter and Carole, we find a clutch of stylish yet handy Anglepoise lamps as well as a rather classy (and bouncy) Harris Tweed sofa - part of a collection by award-winning Lancashire furniture makers, Tetrad. ‘Bayliss and Booth is synonymous with one-off finds’ Carole tells us.

‘We’re constantly sourcing new items, whether antique and vintage, or something for our ever changing homeware and accessory collections. We’re proud to be the Island’s exclusive retailer for brands including Tetrad, Lacanche Range Cookers and Maison Berger fragrances. Our team is passionate, knowledgeable and able to advise, guide and help you to source whatever it is you might be looking for’.

baylissandbooth.co.uk

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Dig For Vintage

Behind the columns of The Colonnade in central Ryde is Dig For Vintage, a tastefully assembled boutique, offering fashion, homewares, books and art from the 19th century right up to the 1980s. Behind the counter are Mike and Sarah who tell us it’s not just a love of vintage which motivates them in their business. ‘The climate emergency is with us now and the most sustainable way to shop to avoid the disheartening cycle of production, consumption and pollution is to buy vintage! We’re hoping our shop will encourage and inspire others to become part of the solution by shopping locally for antiques and vintage items that have stood the test of time’. Not only do the pair offer Art Deco tea sets and dressers fit for any kitchen, they can also help you repurpose or upcycle your existing furniture too. ‘Before you throw, give it another go,’ Mike tells us. ‘That sad-looking chair or shabby bedside cupboard can be brought back to life by using one of our chalk paints and a stencil from Annie Sloan. It’s simple, satisfying and saves money too’. digforvintage.co.uk

If a kitchen revamp is on the cards, then set coordinates for Linear Kitchen Design on Newport’s Dodnor Lane. Now in its nineteenth year, the firm specialises in quality, contemporary kitchens, beautifully designed and using only the very best suppliers. Initially, they partnered up with state-of-the-art German manufacturer Nolte (a relationship still going strong today) and have more recently introduced classy British-made Kesseler cabinetry too. To fill in the gaps, appliances from Miele, Neff Bosch and Siemens are also available, as well as Bora and Quooker (sales of which have been growing year on year thanks to their great functionality and efficiency).

Linear Kitchen Design

On standby to make your kitchen dreams come true are Alex and Helen who fill us in on what makes a trip to Linear so special. ‘We achieve timeless design using interesting textures, materials and colour palettes. Our clients are not only seeking good quality and value for money but also well-designed layouts to enable the kitchen to be the social hub of the home. Spending is always carefully considered; and good quality, functionality and longevity are essential, as are energy efficiency and sustainability too’. linearkitchendesign.co.uk September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Fox & Robin

Meanwhile, down Yarmouth’s charming Wheatsheaf Lane, a new outpost of classy homewares has just opened its doors. Welcoming visitors to Fox & Robin is owner Christopher Johnson who has brought together a hand-picked array of enticing goods - from locally printed lamp shades to antique copper pots and a selection of Yarmouth-themed mugs (made in the potteries of Stoke-on-Trent). Enjoying every moment of his new venture, Christopher tells us more about his love for interiors.

‘As someone who has always been affected by their immediate surroundings, I’ve been really aware of how changing your environment changes your mood. I’m not just talking about colour and lighting but the placement of furniture and how much warmth you inject your rooms with. That’s why I set up Fox & Robin, to offer beautiful things for beautiful homes, adding a cacophony of colour and a dash of style’.

1 Wheatsheaf Lane, Yarmouth | Instagram: @fox_and_robin

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Yarmouth Gallery

Just around the corner is Yarmouth Gallery, set up in 1997 by painter Anne Toms, ceramics artist Amanda Rachel Toms and photographer John Cleave. Beginning life on the upper floors of Foresters Hall, it now sits at street level, hosting stylish works from forty-five different artists in an inviting, informal interior.

‘Whilst a lot has changed over the years’ Anne explains, ‘what hasn’t changed is our commitment to promoting high quality, original art and craftwork designed and made on the Island and from around Britain. Having original, handmade artwork in your home adds a whole extra dimension to your living space, immediately

revealing something special about you and the way you see the world we inhabit’. Amongst the pieces currently on display in the gallery are chunky oak lamps recycled from old posts by Patrick Brockman, fired white clay figurines (reminiscent of Antony Gormley’s sculptures) by Gillian Clark of Newport and a large bronze ‘Mollusc’ sculpture by Dennis Fairweather. There are also seascapes by Anne Toms herself, as well as a card shop at the back of the gallery, nominated last year for a best small, independent UK card retailer award by RETAS.

yarmouthgallery.com September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Long Lane Carpets and Flooring

Perched on a hill above Newport is Long Lane Carpets and Flooring, home to a dazzling selection of glossy tiles, super smooth vinyl and classic solid wood flooring. Inside the showroom, their 15 years in the industry shines through, with a discerning selection of top-notch products as well as a skilful team of staff, ready and waiting to assist.

partnering with Roger Oates Design we feel we’ve been reintroduced to that classic heritage stripe. With their bold linear arrangements and artisan style, we think it’s time to reappraise that quintessential stripe once more’.

Over the past year or two, Long Lane’s selection of incredible geometric tiles from Ca’ Pietra has been all the rage, but in recent months a new trend has started to take off, as co-owner Victoria explains.

‘We’re really embracing, what was not so long ago seen as ‘old hat’ - striped stair runners. Since longlanecarpetsandflooring.co.uk

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

Anne Ginger Soft Furnishings

Our next destination is Anne Ginger Soft Furnishings, the place to go for plush pelmets, chic curtains and upmarket upholstery. Since its launch over 40 years ago, the firm has become one of the Island’s most trusted names in home interiors, providing a well-stocked library of the latest fabrics and wallpapers from their home at 6B Lake Industrial Way. Major design houses are represented by the likes of Sanderson, Harlequin and Designers Guild, whilst lesser-known and more exclusive designers are also on offer. Sustainable fabrics are taking off, with an increasing array made from 100% PET recycled polyester (produced from plastic bottles) as well as recycled wool and acrylic yarns too (made from fashion industry cast-offs). On our latest fabric-fuelled visit, we learn from Camille about an exciting new arrival

- a collaboration between Harlequin and celebrated interior stylist Sophie Robinson (who some may recognise from BBC’s Great Interior Design Challenge).

‘We are positively cock-a-hoop as we watch this new collaboration receive such a positive response,’ Camille tells us. ‘Sophie, the self-confessed ‘Queen of Colour’ is a match made in fabric and wallpaper heaven for Harlequin and the collection is a veritable feast of archive design and abstract prints’.

anneginger.co.uk September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Aritco Lifts

Meanwhile, if you want to elevate your home with a nifty way to go from floor to floor, then take a look at Aritco Lifts. This award-winning Swedish lift company has just unveiled its smallest and most compact home lift yet, designed with space efficiency in mind, it takes up as little as a square metre and can be customised with over 200 different colours. ‘All homes deserve the convenience and accessibility offered by a home lift, but many don’t have enough space for one’, says David Schill, Marketing Director at Aritco Lifts.

‘The solution is the new Aritco HomeLift Compact, our most space-efficient lift yet. Its Scandinavian design, customisable features, and digital connectivity 84

styleofwight.co.uk

ensure that there are no compromises, despite its compact size.’ To date, Aritco lifts have been installed in more than 40,000 buildings around the world since its foundation in 1995 and have won numerous awards for product design (including a Gold Medal at the European Design Awards). As you’d expect from top-notch Scandinavian quality, not only are their lifts sleek and stylish but rather sustainable too. 95% of all components in their HomeLife Compact are recyclable and it consumes less energy per year than a dishwasher or washing machine - even when used up to five times a day! aritco.com

Feature | STYLE

ERMC

So, here is why building and landscape design are really one and the same... Whilst there is a current, and welcome, surge in the inclusion of plants in our interior spaces, it is not just plants that humans positively respond to. It is the natural materials, forms, patterns, smells, sounds and movement that can establish feelings of improved wellbeing. Biophilic design is a holistic approach to bring shades, colours, patterns and textures into the places that we live, work and enjoy. Research confirms that the inclusion of greenery, light, water and natural materials into a building and internal spaces is proven to positively affect mood, concentration, productivity, relationships and memory. Modern life means that many of us spend our time away from nature and outside spaces, but contemporary design thinking and the need to waste less and simplify, is allowing us to reframe our values to prioritise connections with nature. As architects and facilities, estates and landscape managers, biophilic opportunities are everywhere. We are consciously considering and ‘designing in’ meaningful connections to nature, to improve urban design and master planning, and to take strength in the form and function of nature. ermc.co.uk

Making closer connections to nature could mean: · The views and glimpses of the natural environment around you. Don’t underestimate the happiness you can create in any environment if you can see birds feeding or grasses blowing in the breeze. · The sound of plants moving in the wind or water flowing can have a beneficial effect on stress, anxiety, and depression. Water features, big or small, can look and sound fantastic! · Consider sensory planting schemes around entrances and exits. The scent of botanical plants as you move past them adds to positive memory and reduces cortisol stress triggers. · Feeling air movement and having access to fresh air are important considerations in modern design, which allows for low-energy options that ensure a healthy environment. · Dynamic and diffused light - homogenous life is quite destructive to our circadian rhythms. Changing light levels, colours and intensities in our spaces and at different times of day is good for mental health and wellbeing. · Shapes, forms and patterns that mimic nature have been replicated by humans in their living spaces for millennia. Consider the use of this when you are planning storage solutions – honeycomb, for example, has strong and beautiful characteristics.

September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Modh Design

Modh Design Architects continues to go from strength to strength. Starting from humble beginnings in a garden office in 2015, we now practise from a beautifully converted stone barn in Calbourne with a team of six full-time members of staff, who specialise in architecture, design, technology, and interiors. We’ve won many commissions from new contemporary homes, barn conversions, listed building restorations and commercial projects such as the recently completed Royal Yacht Squadron Quarterdeck Bar and the ongoing Albion Hotel restoration project in Freshwater Bay.

modhdesign.co.uk

styleofwight.co.uk

SUCCESS Modh Design scooped many of the awards from last year’s RIBA and IOW Society Awards, including the coveted Martin Pearce Award for Architectural Integrity and the overall RIBA award, both for a skilfully crafted, modern barn conversion in West Wight. We have been featured in many design publications and are currently collaborating with some of the most celebrated and successful architects in the country, such as the award-winning Turner Works practice, for the Shademakers Packs Department renovation in Ryde.

Feature | STYLE

SUSTAINABILITY AND RESTORATION Whilst Modh loves to design and build many new, striking pieces of architecture, they understand the responsibility they have in the industry to respond to the ever-increasing concern and impact of climate change. They continually strive to direct clients towards implementing sustainable design within the projects, whether they are new builds, extensions and alterations or restorations. Modh has coined the term ‘ecovation’ as the process of significantly upgrading an existing building’s environmental performance and reducing its carbon footprint, through the combined implementation of sustainable technologies and other, more simplistic material considerations such as orientation, shading and building fabric. ATTRIBUTES AND WORKING METHODS

GOOD DESIGN FOR EVERYONE

Striking the balance between creative exploration and delivering projects in the real world is a tricky process. The Gaelic term ‘modh’ means ‘creative exploration’ and therefore it is central to everything Modh does. We appreciate the importance of exploring ideas, testing them, and ultimately arriving at the best solution for every project. When you combine this creative process with a strong technical background and growing experience in the industry, it has enabled Modh to deliver a high percentage of our projects, from inception to completion.

Our team insists that small interventions can have a high impact reward on how we live in our homes and we assert that good design shouldn’t cost the earth. Whilst many of us think that extending the spaces we occupy is the answer to our problems, Modh suggest that sometimes simple changes to the internal arrangements, coupled with innovative design solutions, can have a profound, positive impact on how we live in our homes and does not need to break the bank.

September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

The Isle of Wight Homes & Interiors Show Returns for 2023

Sunday 15th October,

East Afton Farm House, 10am to 4pm Even bigger and shinier than before, The Isle of Wight Homes & Interiors Show is back for 2023, following on from the spectacular success of last year’s event (with over 1,000 visitors through the door!) On Sunday 15th October, the gates of East Afton Farm House will open once again to reveal a unique mix of hand-picked homewares, sophisticated gifts, creative interior designers and talented architectural advisors. From renovation inspiration, to discovering your next statement piece, the quality collection of hand-picked brands exhibiting on-site will have you covered offering more design ideas than you could ever hope to pin to your mood board. The Events Barn takes pride of place, hosting the prime staging sites, whilst Island Roasted offers live barista workshops nearby and Isle of Wight Pottery will have their wheels spinning, giving you a chance to get your hands dirty. Over in the Farmhouse, interiors brands take over their own dedicated rooms, showcasing their irresistible products or involving visitors in interactive experiences, whilst Gastronomy will host a canapé making workshop in the kitchen. Stalls will also be popping up in the courtyard and exhibition

styleofwight.co.uk

marquee, whilst tempting street food is on offer from a collection of local caterers too - perfect to fuel that second round of buying and browsing. Entry is free - although VIP tickets are on offer (at £30 per person) giving guests access to complimentary champagne, tasty nibbles, a VIP lounge and goody bag filled with surprises and gifts from the event’s sponsors - including McCarthy and Booker, Acacia Bay and Hose Rhodes and Dickson. With plenty of parking, handy public transport links and bonus goody bags for the first one hundred visitors, you won’t want to miss this exciting autumnal event. Hoisting the marquees and choreographing the whole event will be local firm Black Swan Events and Promotions - a company with over 25 years in the industry. Director, Hannah Wilson, explains: “Last year was such a successful event and we couldn’t have wished for a better response from all our visitors and exhibitors. We’re thrilled to be coming back this year even bigger and better than before and can’t wait to unveil what we have in store!” Meanwhile, Style of Wight will provide seamless coverage and pre-event promotion as the event’s official media partner, with Creative Director, Christian Warren, adding, “The 2022 show was absolutely fantastic for the Island and East Afton Farmhouse is such a stunning venue. We can’t wait to see everyone again there this year”.

Feature | STYLE

Last years show bustling with interior ideas and show only offers - turn over page to see this year exhibitor list. September and October 2023

STYLE | Feature

Who Will Be There

McCarthy & Booker Acacia Bay ERMC XV Stripes

MODH design Wooldridge Interiors Hose Rhodes Dickson Gastronomy Long Lane Carpets and Flooring

Bayliss & Booth

Studio Jute

Celia Wilkinson Artist

AJ Wells / Charnwood Stoves

Pottery Workshops from Isle of Wight Pottery

Shed Soy Candles

BCM

Canapé-Making Classes with Gastronomy

Honeybourne Jewellery

Isle of Wight Pottery

Aritco Lifts

Travel Chapter

Vivus Interiors

... and many more!

For more information and a full list of exhibitors visit blackswanevent.co.uk or styleofwight.co.uk.

What Will Be Happening

Island Roasted

styleofwight.co.uk

Stalls to Browse and Buy From Barista Masterclasses from Island Roasted

Food Stalls in the Courtyard Interactive Experiences with Exhibitors

To enquire about remaining exhibitor spaces email hannah@blackswanevent.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

The pros of the ‘self-build’ on a budget are: • You will own your brand new property. • You will learn to manage money better. • The overall project cost can be less than expected. The cons are: • Stress: mainly over managing money and ordering the correct materials.

S E L F - B U I L D YO U R WAY TO A DREAM HOME By Thomas Dawson AssocRICS, Associate Partner, BCM Rural Specialists After many people telling us that ‘building your own home’ would never happen and that it is so stressful, at the age of 22 my partner and I decided to give it a go. We decided to project manage the build ourselves and achieved a wonderful energy-efficient new-build property in a lovely location at an overall cost over 20% lower than purchasing an average flat on the Island. We looked around the Island for properties in a nice location with parking but couldn’t find much in our price range — we were not tempted by the tightly squeezed new developments on the Island! We came across a plot in the West Wight, which had planning permission for a twobedroom detached bungalow with double parking and a good-sized garden. Our initial

offer was rejected, but our second was accepted and then we looked into finance. Finance for self-build properties is fairly simple, but takes longer than a standard mortgage. With a self-build mortgage, the lender looks to borrow on the land with planning consent usually around 80% of this value and then around 80% of the build costs. Therefore, we put down a slightly larger deposit of 20% in order to reach our target. Before the mortgage is approved, the land needs to be surveyed by a RICS Chartered Valuer and go through a process with the in-house Quantity Surveying team at your lender’s bank. You will have to provide a very comprehensive spreadsheet detailing your proposed build costs. You need supplier quotes on letter-headed paper to back up your figures.

• Money: it was very tight throughout the build, so I definitely advise having at least a 10% contingency. • Time consuming – it is essentially like having another job.

Throughout the build, we used local contractors; our foreman and electrician were from Ventnor, plumber from Godshill, superstructure from Newport, and heating engineers from Newport — even some of our furniture is from charity shops in Newport! If you are considering project managing yourself, you should seek professional advice throughout the process to make sure that you are complying with the planning permission and building control. You may pay fees, but professional advice is definitely worth it. Since joining BCM I’ve been able to use the skills learnt throughout the build in my professional career. If anybody is interested in completing a self-build for their first home, please get in touch.

Feature By BCM Rural property specialists | IOW office: 01983 828800 | bcm.co.uk September and October 2023

STYLE | Home

“ Try to leave a little piece of your present

“

to become part of your home’s history…

Peeling Back the Layers with Kayleigh Trott from Studio Jute

Being on site as a historic house reveals itself through generations-old wallpaper, hidden architectural detailing, and long-forgotten hardware is one of the most thrilling parts of a project. Often during our Interior Design projects, we uncover a time capsule of previous generations’ lives, stories, and tastes. Can we preserve some of these pieces to create a sympathetic restoration? The trick is knowing when to re-use and when to recycle. At Studio Jute we are always keen to incorporate some of the past into the present. That could mean reusing materials — for example, an original cupboard that was no longer practical was remade into bench seating for the porch, beautiful wallpaper carefully repaired, vintage curtains repurposed as cushion covers, or the real statement pieces such as original fireplaces, sash windows, and original floorboards carefully restored to their former glory. So much inspiration can be found in what has come before, and the care and attention that had been applied to these homes is something we strive to continue at Studio Jute — there is no space for poorly made furniture or throwaway schemes. We aim for future generations to be uncovering our work in years to come. It’s also lovely to find the hidden treasure and add that to the archive of your home. Newspapers found under lino that are over 100 years old give a snapshot of a life we can only imagine; a beautiful handwritten letter found in one of our projects will be preserved for the next custodians of the house to discover, whilst a note detailing Easter weekend activities from 1921 is eerily similar to the current owner’s weekend. As so many of us embark on renovations and restoration, we must remember that this is a fleeting moment in time, a snapshot of today’s tastes and lifestyles. If it’s done well the bones of it will still be relevant in years to come — try to leave a little piece of treasure for the future generation to discover.

Studio Jute offers a consulting service that can advise on all aspects of your project, from window treatments to layouts and paint colours.

Get in touch: Kayleigh@studiojute.co.uk / studiojute.co.uk /

styleofwight.co.uk

@studio_jute

Home | STYLE

September and October 2023

Osborne Chiropractic

6A Cross St Shanklin

Chemist & Perfumery

HEALTH SERVICES

Specialist treatment for spinal, joint, muscle and nerve conditions by an experienced chiropractor.

FREE NHS Prescription Delivery NHS Flu Vaccines Managed Repeat Service NHS Blood Pressure Checks * *(eligble over 40 years) NEW Online Or Mobile App Ordering Services Clinic (Travel, Ear Cleaning, UTI)

GET OUR APP scan with your phone camera >>>

For appointments email: info@osborne-chiro.com

or call: 01983 514 996

Get Re-Order reminders Place orders at anytime 24/7 We keep you updated Chat to your Pharmacist

34, Union Street, Ryde PO33 2LE Tel. 01983 562570 www.gibbsandgurnell.com

Lantern Clinic New private medical practice on the Island Precise medicine to get to the root cause of your symptoms.

PRIVATE GP SERVICES HEALTH CHECKS BLOOD TESTS FUNCTIONAL AND GENETIC TESTING GUT HEALTH AUTOIMMUNE DISEASES HORMONAL HEALTH

Own Your Health! Address: Gurnard Pines, Cockleton Ln, Cowes PO31 8QE

info@lanternclinic.com | Tel: +44(0)1983 685667 | lanternclinic.com

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Osborne Chiropractic

Embrace the Health Span Revolution

Relieving Neck Pain

Dr Margarita K itova-John, The Lantern Clinic

Dr Luther Moss, Osborne Chiropractic

In a world where we all yearn for long and fulfilling lives, the concept of longevity has taken centre stage. The desire to not only live longer but also maintain vibrant health and vitality has fuelled groundbreaking research leading to exciting advancements in the field of longevity and wellness.

The onset of neck pain can be sudden, often debilitating and without warning, leaving many patients confused as to why and how the injury has happened. In the vast majority of neck pain patients there is no acute injury or trauma, rather there is a long-standing dysfunction that has built up over time ‘silently’ and then finally — after a normal movement or a night of sleep — the pain appears. In most cases, this problem is due to poor alignment and flexibility in the neck. From an early age we sit down at desks, stare down at papers, look down at phones, or gaze for hours at computer screens. Over the years this results in poor posture where, when standing, the head is held forward of the body. This puts increased stress on the joints and discs of the neck whilst the muscles of the neck are forced to work much harder to keep you balanced and upright. With time, the muscles of the neck become tight and tired, and the joints lose their flexibility, meaning that it becomes difficult for us to return to a normal posture. A neck with stiff joints and tight muscles is vulnerable to injury, meaning that even the smallest movement can start an episode of pain. In severe cases nerves in the neck may become trapped by injury to the disc or joints, causing pins and needles, pain in the arms, and sometimes even weakness. Maintaining a healthy posture and keeping the muscles and joints of the neck active and mobile is the best way to reduce the chance of an injury occurring. There are also other potential causes of neck pain, which is why it is important to have a thorough assessment and establish a diagnosis if you suffer from this type of symptom.

For detailed assessments and diagnosis of neck pain or for advice on your posture feel free to get in touch: info@osborne-chiro.com

Epigenetics, the study of changes in gene expression that occur without altering the underlying DNA sequence, holds the key to understanding how our environment and lifestyle choices influence our genes. This has opened unprecedented opportunities to unlock the secrets of healthy aging and empower individuals to take proactive control over their well-being. Epigenetic therapies look at the “switches” that can turn genes on or off, influencing their expression and how they function within our bodies. These therapies seek to modify these switches and positively impact gene expression, to reverse any negative effects associated with aging or disease. Imagine switching on the genes that promote regrowth of healthy collagen in our skin! Looking younger without aesthetic procedures, just reversing aging! Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, stress management, and sleep patterns, have been shown to influence epigenetic modifications. By making positive changes in these areas, we can potentially enhance our health and well-being. This is where functional medicine plays a crucial role. Functional medicine addresses the root causes of health issues and emphasises personalised, patient-centred care. It recognises the interplay between genetics, lifestyle, and environment, aiming to optimise health by promoting a balanced approach to lifestyle modifications. By combining the principles of epigenetics and functional medicine, individuals can receive tailored recommendations and support to make targeted lifestyle changes that positively influence their genetic expression. These innovative therapies are already available on the Isle of Wight, in the Lantern Clinic. Discover the secrets to a vibrant life, read our blog www.lanternclinic.com/blog/health-span-revolution.

If you are interested in learning more about our services and would like to book an appointment, kindly scan the QR code or visit our website at www.lanternclinic.com September and October 2023

Feel Confident I N YO U R S K I N FACIAL TREATMENTS FOR ALL SKIN CONCERNS: Clearer, smoother, radiant looking skin with 3DVJUVE CAN TARGET: • Pitting of the skin • Pigmentation • Enlarged pores • Premature ageing • Sun damaged skin

• • • •

Lines & wrinkles Dull complexion Stretch marks Loose skin

Lift, Tighten, Hydrate. Target signs of ageing with 3D HydrO2 Facial. 7 ADVANCED T ECHNOLOGIES FOR : • Clearing skin • Skin tightening • Deep exfoliation • Even complexion • Skin brightening • Hydration • Skin lifting

Give your skin a fresh start. Sleeker, Smoother, Tighter skin with 3D Dermaforce. Revive and rejuvenate your skin with the revolutionary 3D Dermaforce Microneedling/ RF treatment - loved by celebrities! Minimally invasive with little to no downtime.

Helping you rest and recover

Give yourself a lift! Visibly fresher, but still 100% you. Achieve visible face lift results without the downtime, incisions or cost of surgery!

Allow our experts to help you look and feel good. BeCalmed Specialises in:

Wellbeing Treatments • ESPA • Beauty Therapy Pre-Natal Treatments • Anti-ageing treatments

FACE & BO DY CO NCERNS:

• • • • • • • •

Lines & wrinkles Overall skin texture Pigmentation Sun damaged skin Pitting of skin Brightening & tightening Sagging skin Stretch marks

NO N-SURGICAL FACE LIF T:

• • • • • • •

Formation of new collagen to lift & tighten the skin Skin rejuvenation Brow & jowl line lifting Treats both face & neck One off treatment Safe alternative to surgery Results develop over 2-3 months & last for up to 24 months

AlumierMD Advanced Skin Treatments We can customise your program of treatments to target your speciﬁc skin concerns whether it be ageing, pigmentation or acne.

A tranquil oasis in the heart of Cowes 01983 296655

8 Birmingham Road • Cowes • P031 7BH info@becalmedincowes.co.uk • www.becalmedincowes.co.uk

Get Your Personalised Skincare Plan:

01983 532 275 @thebeautyspotiow Unit 2, 128 Pyle Street, Newport, Isle Of Wight, PO30 1JW

Health and Beauty | STYLE

With Ca rol i ne Hu rley Wel lbei n g P ra ctitioner at BeCa l med a nd Hea lt hwel l Solutions

IS YOUR HOME A PLACE OF HARMONY?

odern living is often busy and filled with pressures and distractions, which is why it is so important to have an oasis to come home to. Mindfulness has proven to be an important tool for managing the busy nature of daily life and improving our wellbeing, helping us to focus on the present and what is around us. It is important that this starts from home. Here are some tips on how to turn your home into a place that can help you relax and improve your sense of wellbeing. 1. Before you get up each morning, set an intent for the day. The Dalai Lama said, “Every day, think as you wake up: today I am fortunate to be alive, I have a precious human life, I am not going to waste it”. Setting a daily intent makes a huge difference to our mindset. Your daily intent could be something as simple as “today I am happy” or “today I am positive”. 2. Make your bed. This short task is one of the simplest habits you can adopt to positively impact your happiness.

3. Display happy memories around your home. This can give you a real sense of peace and belonging. The cycle of planning an experience, looking forward to it, enjoying the experience then the memories after gives many a feeling of happiness. So, a few choice photos or objects around you can evoke these happy memories. 4. Start a gratitude journal. At some point in the day, simply jot down one happy memory from that day. Reflection is an important part of happiness and pausing to reflect on a positive event from each day cultivates gratitude. 5. Bring aromatherapy home. Aromatherapy is a proven stress reliever. It is a nice tool for stress relief and what better way than filling your home with beautiful scents allowing you to destress while doing other things? Lighting a candle is probably one of the simplest ways to scent a room, so get some aromatherapy candles and let them burn. Candlelight also creates a more soothing atmosphere, or a focal point for meditation.

Aromatherapy diffusers take essential oils and evaporate them through the air. No flame is involved so you can place them around the home and allow them to work all day creating a soothing atmosphere. I personally like the diffuser by ESPA, a great companion for modern living. You plug it in, choose the essential oil that is best for your mood that day and allow the air around you to be infused with a beautiful aroma that balances your mind and body. While you breathe in the benefits of the individual blends, use the diffuser’s light settings to cast a subtle glow over your room making it ideal as a nightlight, to create a calm, soothing ambience for meditation, or just a way to signal some ‘me time’. Our homes are an extension of who we are, so what we do within their walls shapes our mood, affects our productivity, and influences our outlook on life. Scientific studies have shown that adjusting the tiny habits in our daily lives can have a positive impact on our happiness.

September and October 2023

OPENING IN SEPTEMBER... WWW.RYDESCHOOL.ORG.UK/WESTHILL-NURSERY

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Revitalise your skin this autumn By Doctor Hayley Elsmore TH E COU RT YA RD A ESTH ETIC CL I N IC

As we wave goodbye to summer, you may have started to notice the impact it has had on your skin. Whilst we have been out enjoying our beautiful Island and having summer-time fun, it can start to take its toll on our appearance. No matter how hard we try to protect ourselves with the use of high SPFs or sun hats, UV rays still seem to make their presence known on our skin. Too much sun exposure leads to freckles, sunspots, and overall discolouration. It also affects the deeper layers of our skin and, over time, too much exposure can make the skin less elastic. Skin may appear wrinkled, leathery, or thinned making us appear older than we actually are.

INTRODUCING - OPTIMAS by INMODE Offering a variety of professional-grade aesthetic procedures, Optimas by Inmode is equipped with intense pulsed light, laser, and radio-frequency capabilities for skin remodelling, hair removal, and treatment of skin discoloration. What can Inmode do for you? Morpheus 8 – Skin Tightening/Anti-ageing We are the only clinic on the Island to offer the celebrity favourite, Morpheus 8. It is powerful subdermal fractional microneedling plus radio frequency technology which has the power to achieve superior skin tightening results by restoring and boosting natural collagen and elastin. You can expect to see a lifting and tightening effect as it penetrates the deeper layers of skin and fat for a more desirable smooth and contoured appearance. Lumecca – Complexion Renewal & Clarity Lumecca is Intense-Pulsed-Light (IPL) therapy that reduces the appearance of age spots, sun damage, rosacea, freckles, and thread veins, restoring a rejuvenated skin tone and clear complexion. After just one treatment, clients can expect to see significant improvements in the clarity of their skin. It can be used on all areas of the body, with the most commonly treated zones being those that are regularly exposed to the sun.

Diolaze XL – Laser Hair Removal – NEW TO THE CLINIC Were you fed up with shaving continuously this summer? Perhaps it’s time to look for a longer-lasting solution… Diolaze XL is an advanced laser hair removal procedure that safely and gently eliminates unwanted hair. It has one of the largest treatment spot sizes, making treatments convenient and fast. It is a leader in laser hair removal and is powerful enough to treat stubborn hair. The number of sessions will differ depending on your hair colour, body area, and skin tone. Unlike traditional methods of hair removal (waxing, shaving), Diolaze XL laser hair removal impacts the root of the problem, leaving you with smooth, hair-free skin.

We invite you to…. An evening with Inmode Wednesday 27th September 5pm till 7pm at The Courtyard Aesthetic Clinic Join us for a fun evening showcasing everything Inmode! With LIVE demonstrations and a chance to chat to our friendly team about these award-winning treatments. We will be joined by Inmode’s regional specialist Camilla Sanderson, who will show you everything Inmode has to offer. We will also have a HUGE raffle giveaway for anyone who books a treatment on the day with some fantastic prizes to be won. Head over to our website and keep an eye on our socials for full details. thecourtyardcliniciw.co.uk

September and October 2023

NEW SE A ARRIVASON LS IN STOR

E NOW

* RALPH LAUREN * BARBOUR * PART TWO * LEVIS * FRED PERRY * * FRENCH CONNECTION * DIESEL * GANT * NUDIE JEANS * * NYDJ * LYLE & SCOTT * YAYA * MARC DARCY * TED BAKER * * SCOTCH & SODA * TIMBERLAND * LOAKES SHOEMAKERS *

MENSWEAR 21 Holyrood Street, Newport, Isle Of Wight PO30 5AZ Telephone: 01983 821908

CHRISTOPHER'S OF NEWPORT 6/7 Watchbell Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight

LADIES WEAR 3/4 Watchbell Lane, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5XU Telephone: 01983 525665

www.visualimpact.co.uk

Fashion | STYLE

For Autumn/Winter 2023 we saw a return to wearable trends – and we can’t wait!

Rather than runways filled with avant-garde clothing that few could ever wear, designers homed in on classic styles that offer versatility and will stand the test of time. Let’s celebrate a wearable wardrobe full of investment pieces with our key trend pieces available from Visual Impact this coming season.

Less is more There’s a plain-speaking chic about the season’s most wearable looks. This trend is really focused on these wardrobe building blocks, so we’re talking basic white vest tops and crisp white shirts with straight-legged jeans. We love the 724 High-Rise Straight Jeans that are designed to flatter, hold and lift — all day, every day. From £95 available from Ladies Visual Impact.

September and October 2023

101

STYLE | Fashion

Winter Blooms Florals have taken on a faintly gothic feel. Opt for deeper shades, frill details and more abstract designs. This uplifting floral print flourishes across a flattering silhouette fastened by front buttons and framed by voluminous sheer sleeves with feminine frill trims. It ticks all the boxes. £110 available from Ladies Visual Impact.

Loose Jeans

Soft Touch

102

Textures play a big part this season, especially shearling. Looking for a textured go-to piece? Look no further than this Shearling Crossbody Bag. This practical accessory presents itself in soft-touch shearling, and makes a versatile statement alongside every ensemble.

One minute you’re squeezing into skinny jeans tight enough to cut off your circulation. Next, it’s all about baggy denim. Try these Levis 501 Block Crusher.

£55 available from Ladies Visual Impact.

£100 available from Men’s Visual Impact.

styleofwight.co.uk

Fashion | STYLE

Long coats A blend of fashion and function is sure to make a practical and versatile addition to any modern gent’s wardrobe. Ted Baker Raydon wool overcoat in tan — £325, available from Men’s Visual Impact.

Beanies

Quintessentially Preppy

Fact: hats are a wardrobe essential. They are actually the easiest way to seal your desired style move: whether you want to tone down your tailoring through a casual touch, inject a pop of colour for a sophisticated amount of statement, or bring a little dose of print to your look. Barbour Dunford Beanie — £12, available from Men’s Visual Impact

Preppy style can simply be tailored basics with hints of colour to add a bit of flair to your outfit. A great way to interpret it now is with a striped oxford shirt, combined with chinos and a pair of loafers. Ralph Lauren Stripe Oxford Shirt — £135, available from Men’s Visual Impact.

All styles available in-store or online at www.visualimpact.co.uk September and October 2023

103

New designs added weekly. Browse online or visit our showroom Blue Sapphire & Diamond Ring Bespoke ring commission crafted in 950 Platinum. Set with a 2.71 carat blue Sapphire birthstone for September. Includes 0.60 carats of natural brilliant cut diamonds.

Classic Diamond Stud Earrings

Custom Engraved Wedding Ring

Simple and timeless diamond stud earrings, available in a wide range of styles, set with a choice of natural or lab-grown diamonds suitable for most budgets.

Discover plain and diamond set wedding ring styles, all available with engraving. Choose a date, fingerprint, handwritten message (shown) or heartbeat—just some of the options available.

Kensignton 1 Carat Diamond Engagement Ring

Green Tourmaline and Diamond Necklace

Features a 1.03-carat lab-grown diamond, graded F colour and SI1 clarity, set into a modern four-claw ring design. 18ct White Gold. £2160.00

Individual, limited edition Tourmaline and diamond halo necklace. Set with 1.95-carat natural green Tourmaline, surrounded by diamonds. Just one available from our showroom and website. £2160.00

925 Silver Moss Agate Necklace

Yellow Beryl Earrings

Limited edition necklace, available online and from our showroom. Each Moss Agate gemstone features a unique arrangement of plant-like inclusions. Handcrafted for the Serendipity Diamonds showroom. £250.

One-of-a-kind pair of natural yellow Beryl earrings crafted in Yellow Gold. Available online and from our showroom. Just one pair available crafted exclusively for our ready-to-wear collection. £1165.00

Enjoy friendly help and guidance from our team of jewellery experts Browse designs online or visit our showroom Monday to Saturday www.serendipitydiamonds.com/uk chat online or call 01983 567 283

STYLE | Home

BIG IDEAS FOR S M A L L S PAC E S Ventnor Botanic Garden Curator Chris Kidd The standard gardening concept of making a small garden seem bigger relies on pots and magicians’ tricks, but actually in a small garden more is certainly more. Designing a garden can become hamstrung by drawing a plan on paper only in two dimensions; our gardens are clearly in three dimensions. In fact, they are often bigger in the vertical dimension than you realise; there is a whole column and more, figuratively, besides. False perspective is therefore your friend in a small space, so put away the set square and embrace the geometry of the trapezoid. Carefully plan straight lines and borders to converge at points far beyond your walls. Perhaps indicate vanishing points in plane above the flat to give an illusion, an inviting acclivitous sensation.

106

styleofwight.co.uk

Home | STYLE

ENGAGE YOUR SENSES Encourage tactile engagement. Even the tiniest plot can be viewed from more than one point; draw the visitor into your realm, make them turn or twist, to lift a branch or giant leaf to gain access. The most under-utilised sense in gardening is that of touch. Picture entering a secret garden, pushing aside the overgrowth to gain entry. A space feels so much bigger if you are able to explore it. Hide the boundaries behind plants; a level of uncertainty is the bedfellow of wonder. Mix the surfaces for the feet, will they be grass? Or woodchips? Or pebbles? Meandering through plants carefully chosen to excite all of the senses is deeply satisfying, whatever the size of your garden.

BUILD IN LAYERS Layer planting through your airspace. Mix taller thinner plants through mid-height plants, allowing the mix of vertical and horizontal to create a sense of volume. Contrast these shapes by colour and leaf type; such aerial clashes set a frisson that appeals and draws the eye into regions above the usual eyeline. Beware the use of the climber as stringy bare lianas will distract and make a muddle like a cloud of knots. Keep climbers to edges. Look up into hanging flowers, usually with hidden runway lines, attracting bees and insects to your garden.

BUILD IN HEIGHT Think outside of your (garden) box. Careful planting of taller plants will throw shadow away from your patch, allowing valuable light to fall lower and spill over into surrounding spaces with branches, adding value to your surroundings as well as the immediate vicinity. Your garden becomes bigger than the imagined column arising from its footprint.

September and October 2023

107

We are an independent florist in the centre of Newport with island wide delivery. We offer a wide selection of stunning fresh flowers, indoor and outdoor plants and a beautiful range of homeware, all available online or instore.

Flowergardeniow.co.uk Telephone: (01983) 524 061

Art | STYLE

Use your Hallowe’een pumpkin to create an autumnal flower arrangement

Flowers by Ellie

Take your pumpkin from spooky to spectacular with this novel idea.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

- A flower dish

Once Halloween has finished and you no longer need your carved pumpkin sitting on your doorstep anymore, bring it inside and use it to create a wonderfully seasonal flower arrangement. Not only does it look great, but it gives your pumpkin a second life too. Start by measuring the width of your flower dish and then cut a hole to that diameter in the top of your pumpkin so the dish will fit snugly.

- Oasis floral foam - Floral tape - Secateurs/floristry scissors - A measuring tape - A carving knife - Seasonal foliage - A selection of flowers

Next, soak your oasis floral foam in a big bowl of water and let it soak up as much of the water as possible. Once soaked, tape it to the bottom of your flower dish and then sit the dish inside the pumpkin. If you’d prefer an eco-friendly alternative, you could find a small bowl to fit the bottom of your flower dish. Carefully fill with water and add a bundle of scrunched-up chicken wire to hold the flower stems in place. Just be sure to keep topping up the water!

Now, the fun part — flower arranging. As a pumpkin is round, make sure you arrange your flowers and greenery so they can be seen from all angles. Imagine your pumpkin needs a hat; that’s the size of arrangement I would go for. Start by building up your foliage and then add in your flowers afterwards. To go with the orange of the pumpkin, white and yellow flowers make a particularly nice contrast — such as daisies, sunflowers, and white roses. Pop into Bembridge Flowershop to see what we’ve got on offer. Once complete, place somewhere prominent and make sure to keep watered every day or two so the flowers stay looking nice and fresh. And there you have it, a simple seasonal floral showstopper, made with a recycled pumpkin base!

bembridgeflowershop.co.uk September and October 2023

109

Home | STYLE

P OW E R TO T H E P E O P L E : T H E I S L A N D ’ S O N LY C O M M U N I T Y- OW N E D S O L A R FA R M O P E N S I T S S E C O N D S H A R E R A I S E Amongst the green, tree-lined fields just outside Shalfleet, you’ll find the Homestead Solar Farm, a community-owned producer of clean energy whose neat rows of solar panels quietly generate enough power to supply 1,525 homes (and will save 31,000 tonnes of carbon over their lifetime!) Behind this pioneering project is Wight Community Energy (WCE), an Isle of Wightbased community benefit society set up to share the benefits of solar energy and speed up the roll-out of essential lowcarbon technologies. Founded in 2015, within a year they held their first share offer, allowing Island people to invest in their project, as they brought the 4MW Homestead Solar Farm into community ownership. Now, at a time of record-breaking temperatures and an increasingly worrying climate emergency, WCE has opened its second share raise, offering a new opportunity for locals to purchase a stake in the Island’s only community-owned solar farm. Not just good for the planet, the farm is projected to generate £2.5 million over its lifetime in surplus revenues which will go directly towards WCE’s core missions: tackling fuel poverty and accelerating the Island’s transition to a low-carbon future. So far, these surpluses have already enabled grants to local fuel poverty experts, The Footprint Trust, and helped fund the launch of Keert (the Island’s electric cargo bike business). They’ve also assisted with

the set-up of the Going Electric show (the Isle of Wight’s biggest electric transport and green technology event). In addition, WCE has teamed up with five other community energy groups across the country (including in Shropshire, Kent, and Swansea) as part of Community Energy Together (CET), with four of the groups also launching share offers to fund the transfer of solar farms into community ownership, and a fifth on the way very soon. By joining the group (and sharing some of the risk), WCE offers a more reliable investment, aiming to pay 6% in return annually to all investors. Investments start at £250 and as well as financial return, each investor becomes a member of WCE too. As Colin Palmer, director and shareholder at WCE explains: “This is a unique opportunity to be part of a clean energy company that will deliver millions into the local economy. We are very excited about the future, and we hope that many people across the Island will join us as a shareholder and member of Wight Community Energy.” To find out more visit: iowcommunityenergy.org

6% - estimated return for WCE investors £2.5 million – the estimated surplus that will be generated to tackle fuel poverty and invest in green energy 1525 – number of homes the project can supply with electricity 31,000 – tonnes of carbon saved over the project’s lifetime

September and October 2023

111

Feature | STYLE

P h o t o g ra p h b y J a c k M o r e h

By Dale Howar th BUSINESS MENTOR AND CONSU LTANT

W H AT G OT YO U H E R E , M AY N OT G E T YO U T H E R E

here is a common fallacy that if we start successfully in something and it grows, this will continue and work at scale. But there are some real issues in this belief that those in business need to consider if they are to avoid the pitfalls and make the right choice. 99.2% of businesses start really small. Often from a second job, a hobby, forced by redundancy or disillusion with corporate life. For example, it may be that you have a real talent as an electrician. You start by doing work for family and friends, they refer you to others, and you get busy. So, you launch a website, start to advertise on social media, get business cards and network, get a sign-written van, and place a few small ads. Your business continues to grow until you have a full schedule of work ahead. Life is turning out pretty well for you, so you think of expanding. But what got you here may not get you to the next step, which requires you to acquire finance to fund your expanding team of

electricians, their vehicles, equipment, and stock. Plus, you’ll need an admin team to support them, and premises to accommodate all these people and a growing parts store. You also need to develop business plans, manage cash flow, and increase marketing activity to keep all those new people and resources busy. Spending more time in the business, than on the business. When you were on your own this all came easy, as you only had yourself to look after. But when you look to grow you have to learn a whole lot of new skills around business management, marketing, recruitment, finance, fleet management, inventory control, and more. The default expectation in business is that “growth is good”, growth signals success. But bigger is not always better. Smaller means you can be selective with your customers and projects, you can enjoy more time with family and friends, avoid the complexities of growth and be fully in control.

So, before you look to grow beyond what makes life good for you, consider if you need to — what are you looking to achieve? If you decide to grow, take time to prepare and plan, clearly understand your aims and what success looks like, what the milestones are, and how to quantify them. Planning is a key component in achieving business growth and success, helping to ensure that you wake up each morning with purpose and eliminate the Decision Dilemma — “What do I do next?” A plan works to identify what you want to achieve, when, and importantly how you are going to achieve it. Growth for the sake of growth, is not really a plan. As Howard Schultz said: “Success is not sustainable if it is defined by how big you become or by growth for growth’s sake. Success is very shallow if it doesn’t have meaning.”

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 September and October 2023

113

Business | STYLE

By Ben Silk ROUSE LIMITED

W H Y I S E S TAT E P L A N N I N G I M P O R TA N T F O R E V E RYO N E ? Estate planning is about two sides of the same coin: life and death. However, the general perception of estate planning seems to be that it’s something only wealthy, asset-rich people would need and that it’s also not something to think about until later in your life. We would beg to differ on both counts. Estate planning is as much about exercising control over your life as it is about getting things in place for when you die. Although the focus of what’s important to you will change as you get older, there are some basics you should put in place whatever your age.

Protection There is a variety of insurance options that can help make things easier for you and your family if things go wrong. It’s always best to take advice to help you make the choice that’s appropriate for you but you could consider income protection, critical illness cover, and life insurance.

Powers of Attorney It’s normally considered the preserve of older people to be concerned about physical deterioration and ill health but anyone at any age can get ill or injured. You should consider who would make decisions for you should this happen and you couldn’t make them for yourself. Setting up a Lasting Powers of Attorney means you have someone you trust to act on your behalf. If you had no Power of Attorney in place and you had an accident that meant you weren’t able to make decisions for yourself, no one would be able to access your money or assets. A lengthy, and costly, court application would be required to appoint someone (not of your choosing) to run your affairs.

We often see trusts set up in Wills. Trusts can be great for providing for vulnerable or young beneficiaries, protecting family wealth, and tax planning. However, the tax implications and administrative requirements can be complicated, so it’s crucial to take advice.

A pension As a savings plan that can provide you with an income in retirement, help reduce your Inheritance Tax liability, and potentially provide your dependants with an income after your death, your pension pot is pretty much an estate planning superhero. All it asks for is time. If you’re in work you’ll usually automatically be enrolled on your company’s pension scheme. You do have the right to opt out but this is actually a great place to start your pension fund. Because you can’t access a pension fund until later in life, if you are able to, it is a good idea to have other savings and investments as well, such as a Stocks & Shares ISA. ISAs are tax efficient and can be as flexible as you need. It is always best to take advice so that your plans work for your individual set of circumstances.

A Will Dealing with the estate of someone who has died is often a difficult process. Not having a Will can make this much harder. If you have assets, for example savings or property (such as your home, car, animals etc) you need to identify who would inherit, or be responsible for, them should you die. If you’re a young parent then you would also need to consider naming a guardian for your children should you die before they reached 18 years old.

The key estate planning tools: • Income protection

• Life insurance

• Powers of Attorney • Pensions

• Wills

September and October 2023

115

Ultra-luxury Winter Sunshine

Fascinating cultures that reveal new perspectives, Natural beauty that defies description. Luxury that knows no bounds. All this and more await as you explore the world’s most captivating winter destinations with Seabourn. Welcome to the world’s finest ultraluxury resort at sea. Seabourn’s Captivating Caribbean

Seabourn’s Extraordinary Asia

Hidden gems await among the islands

On Seabourn Encore discover Asia in all

of the Caribbean Sea, secluded spots

its glory from bustling cities to golden

that are off the beaten track and offer

temples, with extended overnight stays

a glimpse back in time, into unspoiled

for deeper explorations. Designed with

paradise. Enjoy the comforts of the

300 ocean-front veranda suites, your

300-suite Seabourn Ovation, as you sail

intimate, all-inclusive hotel at sea will

from Barbados to a collection of beautiful

offer the most immersive destination

Caribbean islands. There’s something for

experiences – from sailing up the

every traveller. Relax on a perfect white

Saigon River into Ho Chi Minh City to

sand beach or snorkel in clear turquoise

‘Caviar in the Surf’ on an idyllic beach in

waters. Discover the fascinating stories

Thailand. Explore the incredible temple

and cultures of islands such as Antigua

complex at Angkor Wat in Cambodia on

and St Lucia and spend a day with our

an optional overland adventure or sail

chefs shopping for seafood and spices

the “spectacular seascape of limestone

in local markets. Wine and dine alfresco

pillars.” at the UNESCO heritage sight

or within a choice of restaurants. Then

of Halong Bay in Vietnam. Contrast the

there’s the ultimate beach barbecue with

ultra-modern skylines of Hong Kong or

lobsters on the grill and caviar served in

Singapore with the coasts of Ko Kood in

the waist-deep surf.

Thailand.

THE SEABOURN ALL-INCLUSIVE DIFFERENCE ●

All veranda suites luxuriously appointed

●

Intuitive, personalised service provided by staff passionate about exceeding guests expectations

●

Complimentary premium spirits and fine wines

●

Welcome Champagne and complimentary in-suite bar stocked with your preferences

●

Tipping neither required, nor expected

●

World-class dining, enhanced through a partnership with Chef Thomas Keller

●

All dining venues complimentary, dine where, when and with whom you wish

With the Compliments of Seabourn Caviar in the Surf^ & Marina Day with Watersports^ Relax on a white sand beach, complete with a gourmet barbecue, as crew members wade waist-deep through turquoise waters to serve chilled caviar and ice-cold champagne… Your captain may also deploy the ship’s retractable marina for a Marina Day®^ with complimentary watersports for a day of play like no other including water skiing, pedal boats, snorkels and windsurfing. ^Caviar in the Surf takes place in Carambola Beach (St Kitts & Nevis) and Ko Kood (Thailand) subject to weather conditions.

FACT BOX To discover more about Seabourn’s ultra-luxury worldwide cruise holidays, or to request a brochure, call 0344 338 8615 or visit www.seabourn.com

DON’T MISS OUT UR BOOK YO G IN W IE V TODAY!

B R A MBLE D RI VE N iton

RESERVATIONS BEING TAKEN NOW

Energy Efficiency Rating Current Very energy efficient - lower running costs (92+) (81-91) (69-80) (55-68) (39-54)

A B C D E

(21-38) (1-20)

F G

Notenergy efficient - higher running costs

A BEAUTIFUL DEVELOPMENT OF ENERGY EFFICIENT A-RATED 2, 3 AND 4 BEDROOM DETACHED HOMES Book your viewing today, contact Hose Rhodes Dickson New Homes on: 01983 538080 or email newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk All imagery (photographs or computer generated) are for illustrative purposes only and computer generated images including final elevations and landscaping could differ upon final completion and should not be relied upon. Imagery shown is to be used as an example and may not be available, for availability of plots please enquire.

Home | STYLE

Kingston Farm Lane

elcome to Kingston Farm Lane, a charming collection of family homes situated on the outskirts of East Cowes, a town steeped in history. These homes occupy an ideal location, providing easy access to both the town and the serene Isle of Wight countryside or alternatively to the mainland through various transportation options depending on where you wish to travel. The setting of these homes offers a modern lifestyle within a convenient environment. One of the standout attributes of these properties is their intelligent design, maximizing the utility of their space. The living area is thoughtfully proportioned and seamlessly connects to the rear garden through double glazed doors. The kitchen comes equipped with contemporary appliances, including an oven, hob, sink, and dishwasher. Also to the ground floor, you’ll discover a downstairs cloakroom adjacent to the hall, with stairs leading up to the first floor.

On the first floor, the homes encompass two double bedrooms and an elegant family bathroom. If you choose a three-bedroom home, you’ll enjoy a master bedroom located on the top floor, complete with its own en-suite shower room. Certain homes even offer glimpses of the River Medina. Parking is readily available, as each home includes two designated parking spaces. Each home has a turfed garden, providing space for outdoor activities and gardening enthusiasts. A patio area is also at your disposal for entertaining guests or enjoying al fresco dining. Kingston Farm Lane signifies more than just a housing development; it is family homes that harmonizes modern comforts with a touch of tradition. These homes are exceptionally well-suited for families of all sizes. Through meticulous planning and considerate design, these homes offer contemporary living while being in a convenient location for the local area, access to other Isle of Wight locations and access to the mainland if required for commuting or leisure.

All imagery (photographs or computer generated) are for illustrative purposes only and computer generated images including final elevations and landscaping could differ upon final completion and should not be relied upon. Imagery shown is to be used as an example and may not be available, for availability of plots please enquire.

For further information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Hose Rhodes Dickson New Homes Department on 01983 538080 or alternatively email newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk

New Homes

September and October 2023

119

Part of Hose Rhodes Dickson

Island Holiday Homes | 37 Regent Street | Shanklin | IW | PO37 7AF

Home | STYLE

8 Port – St.Helens

EXPLORE ISLAND HOMES THIS AUTUMN… Searching for your dream home? Step inside these beautiful Island properties, hand-picked by our trusty local agents.

Agent: Spence Willard A beautifully refurbished townhouse in a prime position on the water’s edge of Bembridge Harbour with a private roof terrace and incredible, diverse views of the sea and surrounding countryside. Following a comprehensive and exceptional refurbishment and remodelling with architecture, interior design, and construction by renowned local company Coast IOW Ltd, this luxurious lifestyle home has the option of a boat mooring right outside the property and enjoys views of the harbour entrance, eastern Solent and across to the mainland. On the southern side, there are unique rural views over the RSPB nature reserve and toward Culver Down. Boasting a wealth of high-specification finishes, features and modern materials that are characteristic of Coast’s high-end approach, this executive property incorporates App-controlled zoned underfloor heating on all levels. It also benefits from sleek directional LED spotlighting, glazed balconies, low-maintenance cedar-clad exteriors and a range of luxury brands in bathroom interiors and kitchen appliances. Number 8 provides an ideal family home or ‘lock up and leave’ holiday home or let residence. Spencewillard.co.uk

September and October 2023

121

STYLE | Home

5 Thornhill – Cowes Agent: McCarthy & Booker A light, bright apartment that is immaculate throughout. Located in the prestigious Old Town of Cowes, close to The Royal Yacht Squadron with fabulous views across the Solent. This delightful top floor residence has a large double bedroom, recently installed new kitchen, and refurbished shower room. With allocated parking, a bike shelter with additional storage space and communal gardens, it is a perfect lock-up and leave property or a low-maintenance permanent home. Located in an elevated position,

122

styleofwight.co.uk

Thornhill is a period property that has been tastefully converted into separate apartments. The large, gravelled car park leads not only to the main building but also to the secure bike area with shared storage. The main entrance, reached from the car park, opens into a stairway leading up to the second floor. Before you reach the internal door there is a useful personal storage area for the apartment. Marvellous views look out towards The Squadron and the sea vista. A wonderful space to sit and watch the world, and seafarers, go by! Mccarthyandbooker.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Strathwell Crescent – Whitwell Agent: Hose Rhodes Dickson Located in the bucolic village of Whitwell to the south of the Island, Strathwell House is discreetly tucked away in a sheltered half an acre plot within the centre of this popular village community. Completed in August 2022, the Grand Design property is a bespoke home, designed by the RIBA award-winning Architect Lincoln Miles in conjunction with the current owners and built by local builder Richard Dowers. Lincoln has featured twice on Channel 4’s Grand Designs and was voted one of Kevin McCloud’s top ten architects. The property beautifully combines contemporary open plan living with a 70s California accent. The accommodation occupies about 3000 sq foot and has been thoughtfully designed to offer generous openplan living accommodation and private bedroom suites. All these enjoy framed outlooks across the surrounding countryside as the design of the property has utilised the gently sloping topography of the plot to its best advantage. Electric gates open onto the gravelled drive, providing plenty of parking and access to the property and detached double garage. The discrete, wooden-clad exterior belies the substantial accommodation on offer, which is evident as soon as you walk through the front door. Hose-rhodes-dickson.co.uk

Greenwood – Yarmouth Agent: BCM A spectacular coastal home, recently modernised to a high specification, in a secluded position enjoying magnificent Solent views. Situated on one of the most sought-after and secluded areas of the Island, Greenwood enjoys superb coastal views across The Solent, towards the New Forest National Park. Greenwood is situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and on the edge of an ancient woodland. It is only a short walk to the National Trust-managed Newtown Nature Reserve – perfect for sailing, swimming, and bird watching. Constructed in 1993, Greenwood has recently undergone major improvement. The house now enjoys underfloor heating to all bathrooms and kitchen, spotlights throughout, double glazing with aluminium windows and doors, new UPVC soffits, gutters and fascias, timber, glass and steel staircase, Hive System, new central heating system with aluminium slimline radiators in each room (including the annexe), and Arlo CCTV system. Greenwood’s neighbour is the iconic ‘Campeillo’ – a neo-gothic folly constructed directly to the East (although it can’t be seen from the house), which sailors on the Solent often use as an important landmark. Bcm.co.uk

September and October 2023

123

@STUDIO _ JUTE WWW.STUDIOJUTE.CO.UK

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.

MOUNTBATTEN REMNANT FABRIC SALE

Friday the 13th October 10am to 3.30pm Lovely Fabrics available - all proceeds to Mountbatten Hospice

www.anneginger.co.uk

considered design for modern living

DIG FOR VINTAGE

Offering monthly painting technique Vintage lifestyle through Find out more in-store the decades, fashion, iconic workshops. and on our Facebook page. furniture, fabrics, ceramics, DIG F ORV O. U K art and classic books. I N TAG E . C Book a painting The Colonnade, Lind Street, experience with Everything you need to create a us today! Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 2NE Tel. 01983 719433 gorgeous vintage look for your home. The Colonnade Ryde PO33 2NE

T 01983 719433 E info@digforvintage.co.uk

tel. 01983 407730

Feature | STYLE

From Cover to Cover with Babushka Books This issue, we’re back behind the crisp, freshly renovated shopfront of Babushka Books in Shanklin to meet framing manager Lynn Pearce, who soon takes us downstairs to where she claims ‘the magic happens’. From tapestries and oil paintings to woodcuts and engravings, she knows just the materials to show off each and every piece at its finest. Wanting to find out more, we look over her latest projects (including some free-motion embroidery from Elaine Hinnells), settle down in a chair and ask Lynn to tell us more about the world of tailor-made picture framing. When did you first assemble your craft knives, wood glue and mounting boards to make a bespoke picture frame? Despite being at the helm of the entire bespoke framing schedule at Babushka Books for more than two years, my experience reaches back more than 40 years. Largely self-taught, I began my career in Sydney, working on behalf of top-end furniture outlets and independent galleries. It was before computerised machines entered the market, making my ‘old school’ experience a boon for Reuben. Of all the pieces you’ve framed to date, which has been the most memorable? There have been thousands of pieces but the two most memorable are miniature and monumental. I was presented with a petrified bird’s egg, completely intact and nestled in cotton wool brought back from the Sahara Desert by a dedicated adventurer. He wanted to view it from the front and back, but my challenge was to stabilise it, handling the almost transparent artefact as little as possible. My monumental project covers the stretching and framing of sixteen indigenous canvases, four metres by six metres long. I had an eight-week timeline and, once completed, they were packed with care and freighted to Britain for Sir Elton John who was touring Australia at the time. Presented with an antique watercolour or historic pencil sketch, what frame-making steps would they go through before they’re finished and ready to return? Any original works on paper should be hinged with acid-free tape behind an acid-free mount and backed with conservation-standard board so there is no contact with the glass. Without that small layer of air, any moisture can generate damp which will invariably form mildew, which then leads to ‘foxing’. These are the brown spots you find on older works on paper. After that, I would select a frame sympathetic to the nature of the artwork. Have you any expert framing recommendations we should keep in mind when picking our mounts and frames? One of my pet peeves is the width of the mount around artworks. I understand wall space can be limited but the purpose of the single mount is often to provide a visibly quiet median between the frame and artwork, thus emphasising a focal point to the image. How the artist has partnered their colours is often a good guide in how to complement the framing of the work. My advice? Don’t be bashful about wider mounts with your frame. Babushka Books | 67 Regent Street Shanklin | Tel.01983 652880 September and October 2023

125

The Helly Shop Commercial Printing and Embroidery

Home of Branded Helly Hansen Workwear

01983 528088

HELLY

Shop.co.uk

e-mail salesteam@idml.com

Feature | STYLE

M A K E A W I L L T H AT R E F L E C T S ‘EVER CHANGING TIMES’ By Hannah Lisseter PARTNER , CH U RCHERS SOLICITORS Like many people, I have been fascinated by the recent legal dispute in the US over the wishes of the late soul singer Aretha Franklin. A jury ruled that a handwritten note found underneath her sofa can be used as her legal last will and testament. She had left no formal Will. However, two separate handwritten notes were discovered by her niece following her death — one dated 2010 and one dated 2014 — which named different sons as executors of her estate. The note from 2010 was discovered in a locked cabinet at the late singer’s home, naming Ted White II as the executor. Meanwhile, the document from 2014 was discovered under a cushion on the sofa, and saw Ted White II’s name crossed out, with Kecalf Franklin named in his place. According to that document, Kecalf and her grandchildren would inherit her main home,

which was valued at $1.1m (£850,000) when she died but is worth much more today. It took less than an hour for the jury in Michigan to deliberate and decide in favour of Kecalf and his brother Edward. Franklin’s oldest child, Clarence, lives with special needs in an assisted living facility and was not involved in the dispute. A settlement was reached that gave Clarence a percentage of the estate without regard to the outcome of the will contest. Given the complexity of the estate and the specialist advisers she would have had around her, I find it strange that Aretha did not have a formal Will. The family had to resort to costly litigation for a Judge to decide who would benefit from the estate. Whilst most people don’t have the fame and funds that she had, making sure our

loved ones are taken care of is important to all of us. The best way to do that is to take specialist advice from a qualified solicitor who can make sure your Will is valid and sets out your wishes. Wills can also be drafted in such a way to reduce your inheritance tax bill and exposure to care fees, and to mitigate the risk of remarriage on your children. Those at greatest risk are cohabitees who are not entitled to receive anything from a partner if they die without a Will.

I am a Partner at Churchers Solicitors in Ryde, available on 01983 562201. So in the words of Aretha herself ‘Think’ ‘Jump To It’ and ‘Call Me’!

Over 150 years of delivering expert legal advice At Churchers, we pride ourselves on delivering legal advice that’s free from jargon and easy to understand. We have a new office at 18 Melville Street in Ryde, where our team of experienced and knowledgeable solicitors are on hand. To speak to a member of the team, please call 01983 562 201 or visit our website www.churchers.co.uk.

Cowes

Ryde Ryde

Newport

Shanklin

Freshwater

September and October 2023

127

STYLE | Feature

A Forgotten LGBTQ+ Poetess with Isle of Wight Connections Words & Research: James Rayner Illustration: Lauren Fry

128

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

ABOVE: Newport High Street - showing the Bugle Inn on the left (with white awning), a pub owned by Charlotte’s grandfather Henry

Charlotte Mew in later life, dressed in her signature masculine style.

Early one evening, at The Poetry Bookshop in Bloomsbury, Alida Klementaski sat awaiting the arrival of Charlotte Mew, due to give a reading of two of her poems. At five minutes to six the door opened and “out of the autumn fog came a tiny figure, apparently a maiden aunt, dressed in a hard felt hat and small-sized man’s overcoat. She was asked, ‘Are you Charlotte Mew?’ and replied, with a slight smile ‘I am sorry to say I am’.

espite this humble and selfdeprecating introduction, Charlotte Mew was one of the most celebrated poets of her time, with famous fans including Siegfried Sassoon and Thomas Hardy — whilst Virginia Woolf described her as “the greatest living poetess”. However, today, this talented, distinctive, and totally individual writer is almost forgotten — and her connections to the Isle of Wight are in need of rediscovery. Charlotte’s story began at 30 Doughty Street, London, where she was born in 1869, the daughter of Frederick Mew and Anna Maria Marden. Her father Fred was an Isle of Wight native, the son of Henry Mew who owned the Bugle Inn on Newport High Street (these days occupied by Waterstones). His grandfather had been a well-known brewer, whilst his uncle Richard farmed at Newfairlee, a farm set on a gentle slope between Staplers and Fairlee Road, still accessed today by a rustic track called Mews Lane. Fred was shipped off to London at the age of fourteen to start training as an architect, soon moving to the firm of H.E. Kendall in 1857. Six years later he had married his boss’s daughter Anna and moved to Doughty Street, where Charlotte would later be born. Growing up, Charlotte and her siblings would

pack up their things and set off for the Island every May or June, in company with their loyal family servant Elizabeth Goodman. They were met at Newport by relatives from the farm, with a wagon waiting for their luggage and a carriage on standby for the children, soon whisking them away for a summer at Newfairlee Farm. Charlotte was “intoxicated by the open air and fields of corn”. She travelled all over the Island and learnt the local dialect too. She’d walk along the field-path to the family’s church at Barton and sometimes stayed long enough into the year to see the midSeptember ‘Bargain Zadderdays’ in Newport — a hiring fair where hundreds of men and women crowded the town in the hope of harvest work. These visits to the Island during her “magical childhood” were deeply influential for Charlotte in later life and inspired a number of her most successful poems — including The Farmer’s Bride, which she wrote completely in the Isle of Wight dialect. Carisbrooke seems to be the “old and very steep” town, with a “gabled house facing the castle wall” in the poem Ken, whilst another, Saturday Market, with its “pitchers and sugarsticks, ribbons and laces” seems to be set in the hustle and bustle of Newport on a market day. These poems, though often tragic

(dealing with topics including mental illness, unhappy marriages, and abortion), helped Charlotte become one of the most popular writers of her day. However, deep down she was struggling. She felt an outsider for her whole life, in part, no doubt, due to her sexuality. A number of historians describe her as ‘lesbian’, but she could have just as easily fallen into other parts of the LGBTQ+ spectrum. She chose to cut her hair short, roll her own cigarettes, and increasingly wore masculine clothes in later life. We know she fell in love with two women, both of whom unfortunately rejected her when she expressed her true feelings. Sadly, it’s also possible she considered her orientation a symptom of the mental illness which ran in the family (two of her siblings developed schizophrenia, with sister Freda spending sixty years in an Isle of Wight mental hospital). Things took a turn for the worse in 1928 when Charlotte descended into a deep depression and was admitted to a Marylebone nursing home where she later committed suicide by drinking disinfectant, aged just 58. Having been an outsider in her own lifetime, it seems all the more important to give Charlotte the recognition she deserves today. If only she had lived in a time, like now, when same-sex relationships were accepted and mental health treatment more advanced, there’s no telling where her incredible talent could have taken her.

Charlotte Mew’s poetry can easily be found online, and Penelope Fitzgerald’s 1984 biography of Charlotte is available to borrow from the Isle of Wight Library Service. Images courtesy of Steve Holden, Peter Facey.

September and October 2023

129

Style speaks

to the Loca l Pop Rock A rtist Lauran Hibberd During lockdown, you wrote three EPs and two albums. Do you always find it so easy to write new tracks? Not always! I think having nothing else to focus on made me weirdly creative. I found the lockdown mostly cathartic, and it was strange to analyse life in that headspace. Sounds stressful, but it was GREAT for writing songs.

This issue, we chat to prolific Island-born singer-songwriter — and queen of nostalgic noughties pop — Lauran Hibberd to talk gigs, fossil cleaning, and the highs and lows of a career in music. You were born on the Isle of Wight in 1997, studied music at Platform One, and once worked at the Dinosaur Farm Museum, cleaning old fossils with a toothbrush. How do you think your unique Island upbringing has influenced your style of music? I think there’s a creativity that comes with growing up in a small place, especially on an island like this where you feel somewhat detached from the rest of the country. I definitely feel like this has impacted the music I make and it may be one of the reasons I started doing it anyway. It’s a cool place to grow up and that’s definitely fed into my coming-of-age style first record ‘GarageBand Superstar’. Apparently, your very first gig was at the Isle of Wight Festival after your stepdad did some last-minute fencing for festival founder John Giddings. Did it help turbo-charge your music career after that? Yeah, I love that story, ultimate stepdad points! It definitely didn’t turbocharge my career though; I’ve learned the industry is much harder than that to crack, but it was a very cool experience and was fun to impress my family with.

130

styleofwight.co.uk

We’ve heard you’ll be touring the US and Australia later this year with American rock band All Time Low. But up until now, what has been your favourite gig so far? Yes, I’m so excited — it’s going to be so much fun. My favourite gig so far was for sure playing Wembley Arena earlier this year; that was a true bucket list gig. It was so good to support All Time Low there, so to be going round the world with them this year is a dream. In July you released your new break-upthemed single ‘Honda Civic’, described by the Evening Standard as having ‘an instant replay factor’. Tell us more about it… and why taekwondo features so much in the music video. Honda Civic was funnily never supposed to come out, I started playing it live on tour earlier this year and I’ve never had so many messages asking where a song is before, so that was really cool. The music video was awesome to shoot, I had this vision of me and two younger girls scaring my ex-boyfriend. It worked really well to involve taekwondo and theme the video around that. I’m so happy with how it turned out. It took me a few weeks to nail the moves, especially next to two black belts who were half my age. You’ve described your music career as ‘like constantly drowning, and then just before you quit you get this massive breath that fills up your lungs and it’s the best feeling in the world’. What’s kept you going through the tougher times? Wow, I must have been in a good mood that day! Good analogy though, and it is true I guess. It’s hard, but I think anything worthwhile is. I just know that I am in love

with it, and making music and doing this as my job is the most fulfilling thing I could do. I can’t see my life without it. Studying at Platform One and performing on the Island you must have crossed paths with other local talent such as Wet Leg, Plastic Mermaids and Coach Party many a time. Why do you think Isle of Wight musicians are having such a successful time right now? I think there’s always been an awesome music scene here — for as long as I can remember, having festivals on your doorstep influences that. Having a music college here makes doing this feel like an option too. There’s a lot of talented people here and it’s sick to be a part of this wave right now. You still call the Island home today. What are the things you love most about it? And how do you like to spend your time here? Having travelled quite a lot now, I honestly just think it’s a beautiful place. And I love coming back here after touring. I guess I spend my downtime here mostly, so I write a lot, walk a lot, and hang out with my dog.

Lauran’s music is available to stream from YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music and more.

LIVING

DINING

SLEEPING

Furniture for every room of your house. THE ISLAND’S HOME DEPT. STORE® OPEN MON - SAT • FREE PARKING • ISLANDWIDE DELIVERY

The Isle of Wight

homes interiors

SUN

SHOW 15

A unique event, hosting a curated collection of handpicked brands and quality exhibitors, set in the stunning, natural countryside of West Wight

www.blackswanevent.co.uk

10am - 4pm

East Afton Farmhouse (adjacent to Tapnell Farm)

OCTOBER

free entry

CURATED EXHIBITORS • LIVE KITCHEN DEMOS • INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS • FREE ENTRY GOODIE BAGS FOR FIRST 100 ENTRANTS • VIP AREA • STREET FOOD VENDORS • ARTISAN COFFEE headline sponsors