Island Magazines April 2022 Cowes, Gurnard & Northwood Area by Island Magazines

FREE Cowes, Gurnard & Northwood Area

April 2022

Your Local Community Magazine

Out with the old…

With Spring now upon us the weather should start getting warmer and it’s time to start thinking about spring cleaning and decluttering. I’m by no means a fanatic but I do like this time of year when I can have a good clear out and a good purge. A tidy house is a tidy mind… or so they say.

All Exterior Decoration & Repairs Written quotes and straight forward advice.

Please call Carl on 07767 840 547 or email carlramm@mac.com

I like changing over my winter clothes for some spring/summer outfits. The main point to remember is when packing away the winter clothes if you haven’t worn it this season then put it in the donate pile, there is no point in keeping it and when lovingly unfolding the spring outfits, if it doesn’t feel like catching up with an old friend again it’s got to go and if you are hanging on to an item in the hope that you will lose weight let me give you one piece of advice… get rid of it… you’re never going to lose that weight. It’s harsh but fair!! Remember to keep a couple of jumpers and cardigans out as some days and evenings are still a bit chilly. Sorting out the wardrobe and shoes is no simple task and will probably take twice as long as you expect it to take but it will be worth it. The next area I work on is the kitchen cupboards, again you must be harsh but fair here. I’ve lost count of the number of times I have to remove the contents of a cupboard just to get to the pile of mixing bowls at the back. Get everything out on the counter and make a decision. Do you need it? Have you used it recently? Would your life fall apart if it was gone? For instance, how many frying pans, saucepans, baking trays and mixing bowls do you really need. Have you got utensils at the back of the cupboard you have never used? Once the clutter is gone you will feel much better… although you might regret it for a day or two, but life goes on. I love sorting the food cupboard and stacking the tins and cartons in order, so I know what I have of everything at a quick glance. I bet you could easily live off the contents of your pantry for a few weeks. If you are anything like me, every time you do a supermarket shop you buy a tin of tomatoes, baked beans, soup, pasta sauce and other staples that just get added to the cupboard. The next time you go shopping you will know exactly what you have and haven’t got. Although it seems boring, decluttering is very therapeutic. Don’t just stop at these, you probably have the contents of an airing cupboard or underbed storage that could do with some TLC and don’t get me started on the shed and garage. Remember it doesn’t all have to be done in a day or weekend. Do one job at a time and feel good for doing it. Happy decluttering and remember to sell, give away, donate, upcycle, or throw away.

Welcome to the April issue of ‘your local community magazine’. Our aim each month is to bring you the latest news and information for your area along with interesting articles and features. We have some great local businesses offering a variety of services and products, there is hopefully something for everyone. Like many others, I am extremely proud to live here, and it is amazing watching our communities pull together as one when another part of the world has been torn apart by war. The Isle of Wight, stepped up to the mark and rallied together donating items to be taken to the border of war-torn Ukraine and going one step further by opening their homes and offering shelter. When we all work together so much more can be achieved. Whilst writing this the weather outside is not feeling very Spring like, in fact it’s quite wet and cold. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that the sunshine is on its way, that over the Easter period we will be able to soak up some vitamin D, enjoy some picnics, and dare I say it get the BBQ out ready for the season! There are events happening in both the local area and across the island and our ‘Dates for your Diary’ section on page 18 has a variety of events listed. If you have an event happening in May, please be sure to email the information so we can include it in the next issue. I hope you all have a great Easter, whether it’s the time off or the chocolate you are most looking forward to. I hope it’s a great one and I look forward to catching up with you again next month.

Debbie 07880 587 931 islandmagazines@gmail.com www.islandmagazines.co.uk facebook.com/islandmagazines twitter.com/islandmagazines Island Magazines Mailbox No 6 Store it Self Storage Ryde Unit 1 Nicholson Road Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 1BE All information is correct at time of printing

My role is to hold space for you, to encourage, listen & align. You win, I win. I love my clients & adore coaching. Award Winning Transformational Coach

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Email: hello@maggiecurrie.co.uk

www.maggiecurrie.co.uk 01983 754 620

The views and opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers are their own and do not reflect the views of the Editor or Island Magazines unless stated otherwise. Island Magazines reserves the right to refuse or alter material where necessary. 3

What’s happening in our area by ‘Local and Vocal’ Lora Peacey-Wilcox COVID: It’s still got its grasp on us! Please be so very careful. People that have stayed well for over 2 years are now falling like flies with this vile virus. Mask up; gel; space. VISITING ST MARYS: From Monday 14th March patients will be able to have one daily visitor for up to an hour. With the EXCEPTION of Intensive Care Unit. HAVE YOUR SAY ABOUT HEALTH CARE: As we know our Health is paramount in all that we do. A new plan will be drawn up for 2022-2025. Make sure your view is in there: www. iowhealthandcare.co.uk/conversations or call 01983 822099 ext. 6175 VACCINES: Are said to have saved over 120,000 lives in England alone. If you have not had yours, and you’re still eligible contact St Marys to book online. JOB VACANCIES: From Ambulance operatives to registered nurses. St Marys are recruiting. Look on their website for details. PATIENT COUNCIL MEMBERS: Required. Make your experience count email iownt.comms@nhs.net or 01983 822099 press 1 then extension 6175 VOLUNTARY COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS: Urgently needed in West Wight, Brighstone, Shorwell, Wroxall and Rookley. ARCTIC ROAD: From Smithards to PD Wharf will be looked into about parking 4

permits. As soon as the results are known I will contact you. Likewise: BERNARD ROAD: residents have also requested looking into parking permits. SHAMBLERS COPSE: Sadly, I didn’t win the lottery so was unable to buy it! Not had any further updates. Stay vigilant my fab residents! DERELICT, EMPTY PROPERTIES: If you know of any in your area, then let me know. DOUBLE YELLOW LINES: Despite these going in for safety reasons around Lanesend, parents are still parking on them causing obstructions. Traffic Wardens will be out in the area to keep pedestrians, children and other road users safe. VANDALISED TOILETS AGAIN! Seriously, what is the matter with some people? Dreadful vandalism in the ladies toilet block up at the Rec. If you see or hear any incident happening, call 999 for immediate response. As always, you are my extra eyes and ears. Keep me posted and A MILLION thanks for your continued love, support and messages - they keep me going! xx Lora08@sky.com

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Walls & Ceilings Flattened General Repairs Coving

Interior & Exterior Work Undertaken / Fully Insured References Available / Islandwide CONTACT DAN FOR YOUR FREE QUOTATION Telephone: 01983 408716 Mobile: 07816 545283 Email: td.decors@hotmail.co.uk www.tddecors.co.uk

subscribe Never miss out on reading a copy of Island Magazines. If you can’t get out to pick up a copy from local distributors you can subscribe to either our ‘DIGITAL’ or ‘PRINTED’ edition each month. For DIGITAL subscriptions please email cowesmagazine@ gmail.com and include the words ‘subscribe digital’ in the email, then sit back, relax and wait for the next issue to drop into your email inbox. For PRINTED subscriptions there will be a small charge of £1.20 per month payable 6 months in advance. Email islandmagazines@gmail.com with your name, address and which area you would like or call us on 07880 587931. 5

Easy-going Spanish conversation sessions

• Are you learning Spanish? For holidays, business or other reasons. • Keen to improve your confidence & listening/speaking skills. • Research shows that speaking a language is the best way to learn • Relaxed conversation focused on your current level of Spanish and your specific objectives. • Spanish is my second language, I became fluent by living there. • Home-based or a coffee somewhere convenient to you. • Call Ginny on 07976 883165 or ginny.duffield@btinternet.com to discuss your needs.

Broadway Landscaping & Home Improvements • • • • •

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Mobile 07766 001152 www.broadwaylhi.com email: broadwaylhi@gmail.com

Espero que hablemos pronto!

Spanish Conversation Sessions

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Ginny developed a love of Spain in her islandmagazines@gmail.com early 20’s when she found a job in a bar or call 07880 587931 in a little Town in the Costa Brave region of Spain. She then met a lovely lady who ran a club in a Ski resort in the Spanish Pyrenees. It was a huge adventure going to work up in the beautiful Pyrenees, where she learnt to Ski and to speak Spanish. Ginny says, ‘ No one was allowed to speak to me in English, so I had no choice but to learn their language!’ After 7 years of living immersed in the Spanish culture she returned to the UK, but she never lost her love of Spain and retained many Spanish friends, her daughter then moved to Mallorca and has lived there ever since. Ginny feels a passion for the Spanish language and wants to help other people who want to practise their spoken Spanish. Ginny says, ‘I can help with pronunciation and generally chat in the real way that Spanish people speak, not the way they are taught from a text book’! She has taken a Spanish Diploma with the Open University too. Ginny is happy for you to come to her home and chat in a relaxed way over a coffee. Or she can visit you at home or in a café. See her main advert above for more information and contact details.

Alexandra’s Africa By Alexandra Gillies

THE ISLE OF WIGHT PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP

“Alexandra’s Africa was established in 2012 Are you interested in volunteering to as a sustainable, hosted safari and retreat tour help our Support Group? operating company…we have never been anything else…” We need a Secretary to work with our team of volunteer Trustees starting from April. Alexandra’s lifelong passion for Southern You will need some word processing skills Africa and the conservation of its wildlife, and be able to take the Minutes of our culture and local communities is the driving Trustee meetings once a month. force behind ‘Alexandra’s Africa’. For 10 If you would like more details, please years we have been hosting eco-cultural contact our Chair, Alan Taylor by email at safaris and retreats across some of the most iwpcsg@gmail.com or call 075682 45124 beautiful regions of South Africa including the Limpopo province, Botswana, Southern Cape, and Namaqualand. Our trips promise to tread lightly on the environment and create local opportunity, whilst providing guests with a unique ‘Out of Africa’ experience. Alexandra is committed to delivering a safe and inclusive experience for mature travellers to enjoy, ensuring you are guided throughout the entire process from booking until you arrive back home. We offer a selection of carefully handcrafted Safaris or Retreats to suit your pace, interests and sense of adventure, the choice is yours! Our small group Hosted Safaris: The Classic and The Explorer, take you on a longer journey combining wildlife, art, culture, legacies, and landscapes to create a unique experience that is personal, meaningful, and memorable. If you have limited time… our Getaway range offers a slightly shorter option.

Celebrating an anniversary, retirement or milestone birthday? Join us on a sustainable learning journey in Southern Africa!

- Hosted Safaris - Retreats - Tailored Safaris -

info@alexandrasafrica.com alexandrasafrica.com

Our Retreats offer a more self-reflective learning experience centred around yoga, visual storytelling and singing. If you are looking for a more bespoke trip, our ‘Tailored Safaris’ give you the freedom to venture deeper into Africa, choosing your dates and locations. Invest in memories!

Limited spaces available on our 2022, 2023 and 2024 trips.

April Facts and Historical Events. We know it is the fourth month of the year, but that’s only by the Gregorian calendar that we adhere to now. It was previously the fifth month in the earlier Julian calendar. April also only had 29 days, but a 30th day was added when Julius Caesar established the Julian calendar. The etymology behind the word “April” comes from the verb “aperire,” which means “to open.” It’s commonly believed that the word refers to the season of trees and flowers begin to “open” or bloom. Those who were born in April have a diamond as their birthstone, which represents innocence. Their birth flower is either a Daisy or a Sweet Pea. There are two zodiac signs in April. Aries, which is until April 19th, and Taurus, which is April 20th and onwards. April is a great month for meteor showers. One of which is the Lyrids meteor shower, which appears from April 16th to April 26th each year. There are quite a few notable historical people born in April, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Shakespeare, and Queen Elizabeth II. On April 14, 1912, the famous Titanic ship hit an iceberg and sunk on her first and only voyage. George Washington was inaugurated as the First President of the United States on April 30, 1789. Of course, one of the most well-known dates of April, is April Fools’ Day on the 1st of the month. No one is sure where this originated from, but some believe it to be inspired by Geoffrey Chaucer’s story in “Canterbury Tales” called “Nun’s Priest’s Tale.” On April 11, 1970, Apollo 13 was launched and ran into difficulties about two days later. It was then that the famous line “Houston, we’ve had a problem here” was said, and is today usually misquoted. After a 1,500 year break, the first Olympics of the modern era took place on April 6, 1896, in Athens. The explosion of the Chernobyl nuclear plant in Ukraine occurred on April 26, 1986, which forced everyone within a 300-mile radius to be evacuated. And of course, as we all know, “April showers bring May flowers,” so if the rain of April ever gets you down, never forget the silver lining! Source: thefactsite.com

Shape up for Summer with Pilates By Dawn Middleton “With every sunrise we are given a fresh start. As yesterday fades a new dawn begins. Change your body today into what it needs to be to carry you through many tomorrows.” Spring is here, summer is on the way (hopefully!) so if you’re looking to tone up and get fitter for the ‘shorts season’, why not join us on the mat.

New Class Schedule St Mary The Virgin Church Hall Church Road, Cowes Mon: 10.15 - 11.15 (improvers/intermediate) 11.15 (beginners/improvers) 17.30 (mixed ability) Fri: 10.00 - 11.00 (improvers/intermediate) 11.00 (beginners/improvers) For info and to book call 07539 544865 email: dawn.e.middleton@gmail.com dawn.pilates.iow

Pilates is for everyone, whatever your level of fitness, and it’s never too late to start. As Joseph Pilates said, “Every moment EVERYTHING YOU WOULD EXPECT AND MORE... of our life can be the beginning of great 4 THE ARCADE, COWES things.” Everyone can drastically improve • Newspaper delivery service in Cowes & their physical and emotional well-being through Pilates. JP also said, “You will feel Gurnard better in ten sessions, look better in twenty • UPS access point sessions, and have a completely new body in thirty sessions.” The health benefits • Open daily for newspapers, magazines, are many, including improved flexibility, confectionery, hot and cold drinks. muscle strength and tone, posture and spine stabilisation, joint strength and mobility. It requires concentration, focussing on your ‘centre’, breath, and control hence it’s great for stress management. Pilates lengthens and strengthens all the major muscle groups in a balanced fashion. It also helps improve performance in other sports such as swimming, sailing, horse-riding. Originally designed for dancers and gymnasts it has been adapted over the years so that everyone can benefit from it.

DACK’S NEWSAGENTS

I am a Level 3 Mat Pilates instructor and hold certificates in Pilates with Small Equipment, Pilates for Common Orthopaedic Problems and Pre and Post Natal Exercise. I am registered with CIMSPA, fully insured, DBS checked and have completed a Covid Awareness course. I currently run group Pilates classes in Cowes and private 1:1 tuition is available. Group classes are friendly with everyone working at their own pace/level and there are always lots of options given. So, if you fancy a try, come along and join us, you can call me on 07539 544865, send me an email for more info or to book and see my main advert above. 9

Alzheimer Alzheimer Cafés Cafés

Tel: 01983220200 220200 Tel: 01983 Email: info@alzheimercafeiow.org.uk Email: info@alzheimercafeiow.org.uk Website: www.alzheimercafeiow.org.uk Website: www.info@alzheimercafeiow.org.uk East Cowes Café East CowesAlzheimer Alzheimer Café

Ryde Alzheimer Cowes AlzheimerCafé Café

East Cowes Town Hall York Ave, East Cowes PO32 6RU First Tuesday of the month 2pm—4pm 2pm 4pm

Football Club, Church Reynolds Close All Saints’ Hall Queens’s Road,Cowes Ryde, PO31 PO33 7NT 3AF off Park Road, First Friday of the Second Wednesday of month the month

Cowes TotlandAlzheimer Alzheimer Café Café

Totland Alzheimer Sandown AlzheimerCafé Café

The Close StFootball SavioursClub, HolyReynolds Family Centre off Park Road, Cowes PO31 Weston Lane, Totland PO397NT 0HE Second Wednesdayof of the the month month Third Wednesday

2pm 4pm 2pm—4pm

Ventnor NewportAlzheimer Alzheimer Café Café IOW College, Medina Gardens, Way The Green Room, Salisbury (Conference Rm, PINK Building) Dudley Rd, Ventnor PO38 1EJ Newport PO30 5TA Third Wednesday of the month

Last Thursday of the month 6pm 8pm 6pm—8pm

Newport Alzheimer Café Newport Methodist All Saints’ Church Church Hall Quay Street, Newport, PO30 5BA Queen’s Road, Ryde PO33 3AF Last Wednesday of the month First Friday of the month 6pm 8pm 11.30am—2pm

2pm—4pm 11am 1pm

St Saviours Holy Family Centre The Broadway Centre Weston Lane, Totland PO39 1 Broadway, Sandown PO360HE 9GG Third Wednesday month Fourth Wednesdayofofthe the month

2pm 4pm 2pm 4pm 2pm—4pm

Sandown Alzheimer Café ACE7 Alzheimer Café

The Broadway Centre Carers IW, Riverside Centre 1 Broadway, Sandown PO36 Newport PO30 2QR 9GG Fourth of of thethe month 2nd and Wednesday 4th Tuesdays month

2pm 4pm o’clock 10.30am—12.00

ACE7 Alzheimer Café Newcomers very welcome

for people with early onset dementia aged 45-65 yrs

Riverside Centre Booking only necessary Newport PO30 2QR when Covid-19 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month restrictions apply 10.30am 12.00 o’clock

verygiving welcome An Alzheimer Café Newcomers is a meeting place informal education about Booking only necessary when Covid-19 restrictions apply dementia, guidance and signposting to other services. An Alzheimer Café is a meeting place giving informal education about dementia, We welcome people with dementia, their families, carers, guidance and signposting to other services. We welcome people with dementia, professionals and anyone with an interest in dementia. their families, carers, professionals and anyone with an interest in dementia.

What is an Alzheimer Café? An Alzheimer Café is a meeting place that provides informal education and information about the issues surrounding dementia. Alzheimer Cafés welcome everyone who has an interest in dementia; people with dementia, their families and friends and people in the community, who would like to learn more about dementia. Alzheimer Cafés provide an informal, safe, and sensitive environment for, sharing feelings, giving, and receiving support and guidance, and provides the opportunity to make new friends with people in similar situations. Alzheimer Cafés have a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Each month there is a speaker who presents information on a dementia related subject, sometimes from another service, and welcomes professionals and visitors’ who provide updates and information on their areas of expertise. The Alzheimer Café Team will give you a warm welcome, ‘a listening ear’, provide refreshments and signpost people to other services and agencies, where appropriate, to access information and services. There is no need to book to attend an Alzheimer Café, you are welcome to come along to any of the Cafés across the Island (ACE7 is for younger people with dementia aged 45-65 years). There is no charge – but we welcome donations in the orange collection boxes. (Booking is only necessary when Covid-19 restrictions apply.) For further information, please leave a message on the message service – 01983 220200; or email: info@alzheimercafeiow.org.uk

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All Electrical Work Undertaken Domestic and Commercial Design / Installation / Improvements Home Automation Inspection & Reports Fault finding & Repairs All Types of Lighting Computer Network Cabling

News Report from Cllr Richard Quigley - Cowes North Email: richard.quigley@iow.gov.uk The nights are getting lighter and I’m sure we are all ready for some Spring sunshine. With all the issues in the world right now, I feel very privileged to live and work here. Residents on Market Hill are still progressing the issue of the unkempt land. Mavis Paterson is working tirelessly to make something happen For what appears to be the first time, possibly ever, the council budget passed with near 100% support. The good news is that the entire council is now focused on providing truly affordable homes. I am sure I am not the only one that has had tenants contact them regarding the state of the properties they let , the rent and the none return of deposits. I am working with Cllr Stephens to set up a private renter’s forum, so that issues can be raised and dialogue with agents and landlords started to improve the quality of accommodation.

Both companies will consider a refund to patients that don’t have time to book in advance. Whilst outside of my ward, I have been contacted by Wight Tricks, regarding the extension of their operating hours. Whilst I appreciate residents’ concerns, there are over 400 children on the waiting list to take part in classes. We have all pointed out that there aren’t enough activities for youngsters, so this seems like a good opportunity to support the younger members of our community. And again, I have had too many residents approach me with concerns over “heating or eating”. I have qualified as a citizen’s advice first aider and urge us all to point people in their direction. www. citizensadviceiw.org.uk 08001448848. Please remember that the Footprint Trust offers practical help and action on how to stay warm without it costing a fortune. www.footprint-trust.co.uk

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There are many issues residents have with the ferries, some of them have a resolution. I have met with both CEOs to discuss the NHS discount. It is necessary to make the For a caring and compassionate service booking by phone, 40 Place Road, Cowes. Tel: 292932 with proof of an www.geoffleather.co.uk appointment. The appointment does not Client Parking Place Rd need to be for the driver Newport Private Chapel of Rest s Rd if the patient requires Node Newpo Personal Service rt Rd someone else to drive Pre-Paid Funeral them there. R ate

Plans

Adrian Kensit

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A reminder from Trading Standards

Fitness with Ginny... • Fitness programmes tailored to YOU • Let me create a fun fitness programme built around your lifestyle, your objectives and your current level of fitness • From someone just starting out and wanting to make small steps toward a fitter lifestyle, to more advanced fitness fans of any age • Achieving and maintaining a degree of fitness can seem daunting at first. I help by coaching, encouraging and motivating you to make small improvements. Before long you won’t believe how much better you feel. I make it fun too! • Home-based or at your/my gym, wherever you feel comfortable (I’m in Cowes) • I am CIMSPA level 2 qualified and have over 20 years experience in fitness, suppleness and wellbeing. I am easy-going, friendly and reliable • Please get in touch on 07976 883165 or ginny.duffield@btinternet.com and let’s chat about what might work best for you

Contact Lui Tel: 520522 Mob: 07795 363 534

• We are seeing increasing reports about rogue traders knocking on doors and www.primotechnical.co.uk trying to carry out work. We suspect this primotechnical@gmail.com is following on from the storms last month and rogue traders are coming over from the mainland to prey on vulnerable residents. It might seem very handy to have someone knock on your door and offer to do repairs however ask yourself why are they free to be able to work on yours and your neighbours property – reputable businesses will have to look at the job, price it up and provide you with a quote and then book you in and will generally be too busy to drop everything to do your job right now! Rogue traders will offer to do work for what seems like a reasonable price but will invariably find problems halfway through the job and the price will escalate. They will rarely be trained or qualified in carrying out the services they offer which means a poor job - you will then have to pay more to a reputable trader to correct the problem. They will quickly turn from being very nice to using intimidation and threats. 13

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Wordsearch ‘Human Bones’

ANAGRAMS

Can you work out the name of each creature from the following anagrams? 1. TIP UP SHAMPOO (12) 2. A LONE PET (8) 3. ANY CAR (6) 4. SO EMU (5) 5. AT GORILLA (9) 6. MAIN GOLF (8) 7. RAPTOR (6) 8. NIP HOLD (7) 9. GREAT DRIP (9) 10. A MALL (5) 11. A PENCIL (7) 12. OR BELTS (7) 13. PAROLED (7) 14. FIG FEAR (7)

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Lest month’s anagrams answwers:- 1. AUSTRALIA 2. BELGIUM 3. SCOTLAND 4. GERMANY 5. ICELAND 6. NETHERLANDS 7. NORWAY 8. SPAIN 9. ARGENTINA 10. SWITZERLAND

News Report from Cllr Paul Fuller - for Cowes West & Gurnard Tel: 01983 289595/07935 090835 - Email: paulfulleriw@gmail.com Princes Esplanade Land Clearance by SGN. Planning Enforcement are taking legal action following the devastation undertaken by SGN on land protected under Site of Importance for Nature Conservation and Woodland Tree Preservation regulations.

Any other queries, questions and suggestions: Please let me know your views!

Residents Drop-In, Gurnard Pines. Thank you to everybody that joined the recent residents Drop-In which took place Following the clearance, I am supporting the planning enforcement team by gathering at the Food Shack and Bar, Gurnard Pines. A big thank you to Stuart for the various evidence of habitats and wildlife use of his café, Gurnard Parish Council that uses this and the adjoining site (which for their support through sponsorship was cleared without permission). In light and to the Citizens Advice Bureau and of this, if you have information that will Footprint Trust for supporting the event. support the IW Council, please can you let me know so that I can forward this to the To note the Footprint Trust (Tel: 01983 relevant officers. 822282) and CAB (03444 111 444) offers In the meantime, I am following up further 1-1 support. concerns over the increased drainage from Weeds. the cleared site and further to resident’s Following complaints concerning feedback looking into the potential of seeing this land further safeguarded through highway weeds and the damage caused, a more sympathetic approach and the designation of a local nature reserve. sustainable alternatives to Glyphosates are being sought by the IW Council. Accessibility Survey. The Isle of Wight Local Access Forum Several years ago, Cowes Town Council wants to know your views on creating initiated a RHS alternative for use better access to the countryside and Rights in Northwood Recreation Ground. of Way. We would like to know what you Although there are alternatives, these would like to see done to improve access/ are not always effective in removing the remove barriers. roots of weeds. Cowes Town Council are liaising with Island Roads regarding Please tell us your five priorities to support alternatives. those with mobility issues, for those with pushchairs, children, older residents and Ukraine Appeal. those with disabilities. The deadline for I am advised the Association of feedback is 5pm, Friday 23rd April 2022. Ukrainians in Great Britain- www.augb. co.uk (for updates and donations) and My/our five priorities to improve mobility the Red Cross www.redcross.org.uk are access to local services, facilities and the good organisations doing great things to countryside are: support the lovely people of Ukraine. 16

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News report from Cllr Paul Fuller Cowes, Northwood and Gurnard Local Cycling, Walking Infrastructure Plans (LCWIP) I have attended a number of meetings following resident feedback to ‘People Powered’ alongside Parish Councillors from Cowes, Gurnard and Northwood. The purpose of the LCWIP (which is funded by the Government) is to improve pedestrian and cycle access to local hubs. Within the consultation and residents feedback a number of issues have been raised, with priorities being considered by Parish Councils this month. Annual Report. Normally at this time of the year, I circulate my annual report to all households. Unfortunately for this year this will not be possible due to the time that it takes to deliver these. However, there will be a report which I hope can be issued both online and in hard copy form that will be made available from usual outlets! Worsley Road parking. Enforcement action has been requested to prevent parking at the Bus Stop outside Bucklers View. To note, parking in this ‘Bus Stop Clearway’ means that Blue Badge Holders are NOT allowed to park in this spot as any parking makes it difficult for those accessing the community bus. Please, please can motorists park tight to the kerb in Worsley Road to allow wider vehicles to pass. Church Road. I am ever hopeful that the delayed Church Road Traffic and Parking Survey will take

place this month. If you are ready, willing or able to support the collection of surveys please let me know! Exceptional Hardship Support. The IW Council has in place support for residents finding it difficult to keep up with Council Tax payments. If this applies to you, or you know somebody that may require extra support please visit: www.iow.gov.uk/Council/OtherServices/ Local-Council-Tax-Support-Entitlement/ Exceptional-Hardship-Fund Local Planning Issues. There are a number of planning applications that are under consideration locally. These include proposals for land adjacent to 77 Place Road and the Glamping application in Rew Street. The most recent proposal to develop on land adjacent to the Stables, Woodvale Road was approved. Other Planning Matters. Annual Monitoring Report The annual monitoring report for 2020/21 has been completed. Key statistics below highlight the following: •

86% of 1,088 planning applications approved. • 493 units granted permission, 445 completed of which 123 were affordable. • Above national targets for determining majors, minors and other apps. • 38% of units permitted on brownfield land. 17

dates for your diary Every Wednesday – Mountbatten Community Choir is meeting again at the hospice from 6pm – 7.45pm for a weekly uplifting sing. Everyone is welcome to come and join in. No need to be able to read music and no previous experience necessary. For more information contact Fraser Simpson (choir director) on 07834 322316 or email fraser.simpson@ mountbatten.org.uk Saturday 2nd April – St Mary’s Church, Cowes is holding a Spring Fair from 10am – 2.30pm in the parish room. Tea, coffee, cakes served all day with light lunches, sandwiches, etc. Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd April – Isle of Wight Speed Trials – Island Car Centre Sandown Sprint at Culver Parade, Sandown from 9am – 5.30pm. So This car sprint will be one of the first speed events run on closed public roads in England under the new UK regulations. Set against the spectacular backdrop of Bembridge Down and Culver Cliff in Sandown, spectators will be able to view the track along Culver Parade from an elevated spectator viewing area. There are a 100 cars entered for the Sprint. For more information and tickets go to ww.isleofwights peedtrials.co.uk Saturday 2nd April – Coffee Morning at Vectis Radio, The Riverside Centre, Newport from 10am – midday. Meet some of the presenters and other listeners. Find out more about volunteering. All visitors must have a negative lateral flow test before entering the studio and if you are not drinking or eating please wear a face mask. Tea, coffee, biscuits and homemade cake available for a small donation. Monday 4th April – Isle of Wight Family History Society open meeting at Arreton 18

Community Hall, Main Road, Arreton. A talk by Kier Foss “Newtown Stories”. Doors open 2pm and talk starts 2.15pm and lasts for 45 minutes. Everyone welcome. Admission for members £1, non-members £2. Parking on site available. For more information go to www.isle-of-wight-fhs.co.uk Friday 15th and Saturday 16th April – Isle of Wight Spring Art & Garden Fair at Northwood House, Ward Avenue, Cowes from 10am – 5pm. Tickets are £3 per person or £5 per couple with children under 16 free. Proceeds from the event will go to Northwood House Charitable Trust. Saturday 16th April – Easter Egg Hunt at Brading Roman Villa from 11.30am – 3.30pm. Egg hunt £3 a child. Lots to see and do. Tombola, free balloon models, bonnet and egg competition, face painting, huxley magic, stalls, vintage rides and much more. Proceeds in aid of Daisy Chains IW. Saturday 16th April – Aspire will once again be holding its Easter Duck Race at 12 noon. The ducks will be launched into the river at Shide, they will travel down the river to a fast-flowing finish! There are 1,000 ducks and they cost £1 each - you can buy as many ducks as you like. Go to www.totalgiving. co.uk/mypage/duckrace22 and buy your duck and Aspire will email you your duck numbers - first prize is £50 and many other prizes. For more info phone 01983 716020 Saturday 16th April – Open Day at the Royal Solent Yacht Club in Yarmouth from 11am – 2pm. Everyone welcome. Enjoy a tour of the clubhouse by the sea, find out what’s on offer to members both on and off the water. Call 760256 for more information

All event information was correct at time of print but could be subject to change at any time.

Quick Tips to Save Energy and Money

WENDY DEBENHAM Soft Furnishings

For months we have been warned that curtains- pelmets - blinds energy prices are going to increase loose covers - cushions and dramatically on the 1st April and although all types of home furnishings. Made to order measuring we are moving towards the warmer months, service & free quotes meaning the heating will be turned off call 07870 915 824 or 401411 there are still many ways in which we can email: wendydebenham@gmail.com make little changes around the house to Come and see us at our showroom in save a few pounds here and there. We must also take into account that inflation seems Brading for all your soft furnishing needs. to be everywhere except on our wages, so hopefully we can continue to bring you some money saving tips each month. 1. Do full laundry loads - Half-load settings save very little energy, so a full load is much more energy efficient. Do fewer (but fuller) – wash loads instead and with the warmer weather heading our way put the washing outside on the line or on airers and say goodbye to the energy guzzling tumble dryer. Go one step further… with today’s effective washing machine detergents, there’s often no need to run your washing machine any higher than 30°C – clean clothes, energy saved, job done! 2. Use the eco setting - On your dishwasher or boiler, the eco setting heats water more slowly, using less energy. You get the same results; it just takes a little longer. 3. Don’t use standby mode - Unless switched off at the wall, appliances like your TV continue to use energy. The same goes for the kettle, coffee maker, and food processors which are all easy to unplug. The digital clock on your microwave is using energy. 4. Careful with that kettle - When making tea or coffee, most of us fill the kettle right up. By filling your kettle just to the level you need, it could save you up to a third of the energy you have been using. 5. Switch to LED bulbs - Traditional bulbs are extremely inefficient. Modern LEDs are the opposite, and also last longer so are less wasteful too. 6. Use your microwave more - You’ll save energy because it’s quicker than using the oven or stove. It’s worth considering a slow cooker too, as they’re one of the most energy-efficient kitchen appliances.

7. Unplug all your chargers - Across the country, people are unnecessarily overcharging their mobile phones, MP3 players, and laptops. Instead, as soon as your device is fully charged, try to get into the habit of unplugging it. Not only will this save energy, but it 19 also prolongs battery life.