Island Magazines Cowes, Gurnard & Northwood February 2016 edition

Island Magazines Cowes, Gurnard & Northwood

February 2016

FREE Your Local Community Magazine

Dear Readers

Wendy Debenham Soft Furnishings curtains- pelmets - blinds Welcome to the February issue and I hope loose covers - cushions and your 2016 is going well so far and you haven’t all types of home furnishings. fallen victim to the germs going around which Made to order measuring are causing colds, coughs and fevers and service & free quotes generally making people fell unwell.

At the time of writing this there is no snow... but there has been plenty of rain!!!! and the temperature has dropped considerably. I’m every hopeful though that we will get a nice splattering of the white stuff. I know many of you don’t like it but I have a sledge in my shed which is just collecting dust. I need to give it a good airing!!!!

This months issue is packed with news and information and you can find out the story of the front cover picture on page 18 and there are a few events happening in February, and you will find the ‘Dates for your Diary’ on page 15.

The law is changing in April regarding microchipping dogs and you will find an article regarding this on page 12.

Please keep using the service of the advertisers and a big thank you again to the contributors who do a great job of supplying the latest news.

Until next month...

Debbie

text or call 07880 587 931 email: islandmagazines@gmail.com twitter @islandmagazines www.islandmagazines.co.uk The editor does not necessarily hold the same views as those expressed by contributors and advertisers and reserves the right to refuse or alter material where necessary.

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call 07870 915 824 or email: wendydebenham@gmail.com Now offering sewing classes for all abilities in dressmaking and soft furnishings at our new sewing room in Wootton. Call for more info.

G A Property Services EXPERIENCED•RESPONSIBLE•RELIABLE

Do you need help to keep your property maintained?

Gardening - regular maintenance and one off projects Storm damage repairs

Fencing, Painting & Landscaping

Please call Guy on 01983 532919 or 07531084727 References available on request

Joker Jacks Tattoo Studio 07783 082 900 Professional freehand tattoo artist from the mainland All styles of work undertaken Email - jokerjacks13@gmail.com Find us on Facebook 12 York Avenue, East Cowes, PO32 6QY

Private Dinner Parties • Small numbers - up to 50 • Superior quality • Private or Corporate • In your home or chosen venue • Business lunches

To discuss your individual needs contact 01983 300036 Gema 07932100796 Andy 07968868020 3

NORTHWOOD PARISH COUNCIL NEWS

By Chris Riddet

POLICE REPORT In the absence of any representative from the Local Safety Neighbourhood Team, the clerk read from the report she had received. Particular mention was made of the following: One crime had been recorded for the month of December. Unfortunately, no details had been provided so to enable any comparison to the number of crimes committed the previous year. It was also noted that the crime reports service had ceased. PCSO Howard had suggested looking at the website Police.uk. However, this site had not been updated since November.

Draft MOU with Northwood Community Partnership – Two copies of the revised MOU, together with a list of the Partnership’s known assets, had been sent to the Secretary of the Community Partnership for the signature of their Chairman and return to the clerk. This was now to be discussed at their next meeting.

The clerk advised that she had received an initial report from the builder of the Noticeboard, outlining its condition and the necessary works required to bring it back to its original condition. This would enable quotations to be obtained for its refurbishment.

MATTERS ARISING Chawton Solar Farm – The requested information had been supplied to Lightsource, on 8 December, with regard to their kind offer of a one off community benefit payment of £5K. As an acknowledgement and/or further information was still awaited the clerk was requested to make further inquiries.

Due to its poor state this work could potentially cost upwards from £350, although no firm prices were provided. In the meantime, the builder had offered to undertake a number of minor works, subject to a maximum cost of £20, to cover the necessary fixtures and fittings. This work would be completed on receipt of the formal agreement of the MOU.

Posts at the top of Uplands Road – Following the meeting in December, Island Roads had confirmed that an inspection of the posts had been undertaken and any necessary replacements would form part of their works programme. A white cross had been placed on a few of the posts, suggesting that they were to be removed and new ones inserted. The works were to have been carried out by the end of December. In a telephone conversation with Island Roads it had been advised that the posts were on order and their delivery due shortly.

WELCOME TO NORTHWOOD BOOKLET An example was shown for the proposed new parish map, to be used in the revised “Welcome to Northwood” booklet and updated Parish Plan. Councillors unanimously supported the idea that a quote be obtained for a digital copy, which could then be uploaded onto the new parish council web. It was agreed, that due to the specialised nature of providing the proposed parish map, Financial regulations be suspended and only one quotation be obtained. The cost of a new parish map be financed from the Parish Plan update budget.

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Call 01983 216121 or 07590 277298

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Island Dental Services New patients always welcome at our friendly private clinic

Snoring/Apnoea Problem?

We can help Call 291423

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in Gurnard, Cowes & East Cowes Reflexology Aromatherapy Massage Indian Head Massage

Phone Judith for details 716144 info@judithdidham.co.uk www.judithdidham.co.uk Judith Didham Yoga PHYSICAL EXHAUSTION TOXIC RELATIONSHIPS LOW MORALE STRESS

All these emotions cause damage and can make you feel invisible.

By working with me and the three principles you will begin building the foundations for your POSITIVE future

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Email: hello@maggiecurrie.co.uk

If you would like to promote your business in the next issue email islandmagazines@gmail.com for a rate card and details of special offers or call Debbie on 07880587931 5

Revamp your wardrobe – live in the present

By Maggie Currie – Life Coach Change how you feel about yourself with the practical task of revamping your wardrobe. This can really help to get rid of those winter blues and the aftermath of Christmas and the New Year.

By ridding yourself of the unwearable rubbish, paradoxically you will find you have more of everything.

• More wearable, worthy clothes • More time - you’ll get dressed so much quicker!

• More money - no more impulse buys • More confidence • More control To totally revamp your wardrobe, you will need: • Best part of a day, uninterrupted • Bin bags, boxes • Coat hangers • Good, uplifting music (anything you like that motivates you) • Loads of energy and a positive attitude First, take every single thing out of your wardrobe. Make sure the whole thing is empty. Put everything on the floor or bed. You need to clear the decks.

Next, create a reject pile and cast aside EVERYTHING that is: • Broken • Stained • Doesn’t fit and never will.

• Baggy and shapeless • You have not worn for a year at least (be honest) • Does it still fit?

• Is it flattering?

• Totally not you.

Take a step back and have a really good look at what is left.

What are your clothes REALLY saying about you? Do you like what you hear? Is there anything not reflecting your true personality? If there is, add it to the reject pile.

Be ruthless. Resolve now to live in the present. Let go of these clothes and make room for your new life.

Bag up your rejects right now and take them away. No regrets. Look to the future! Go and buy a few items that reflect the new you and you feel comfortable in. Add to these as and when you can afford to.

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Isola

Building & Renovations

Most aspects of the building trade undertaken Maintenance - repairs - pointing stonework - renovations landscaping - period restorations

Free estimates - fully insured with qualified tradesmen No job too small - over 25 yrs experience - Islandwide coverage Tel 01983 567566 or 07472 738126 email: isolamarc15@gmail.com www.isolabuilding.co.uk 16, Pier Street, Ventnor, PO38 1ST Public liability: ISCOMBL16973989

Do Something Amazing...

Become A Blood Donor There are 2 sessions available over the next couple of months in Cowes and Newport as detailed below.

operty maintenance • Landlord certificates Boiler Servicing •• Central heating Landlord Certificates •• Electrical TechnicalServices Services Ltd Ltd Technical • Boiler Replacement/Installation And much more... operty maintenance

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• Plumbing • Central Heating Contact Lui Tel: 520522 • Electrical Mob: 07795 363 534 • Property Maintenance www.primotechnical.co.uk and much more...

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Wheelers Solicitors Buying or Selling Property Wills - Probate Lasting Powers of Attorney Friendly Professional Service Home Visits Tel: 01983 533938

69a High Street Newport www.pwsolicitor.co.uk

Helping you Achieve your Aims in Life

On Tuesday 2nd February between 1.15pm Helping you Achieve and 5.15pm at Cowes Yacht Haven Vectis your Aims in Life Yard, High Street, Cowes, PO31 7BD or Tuesday 1st March between 1.30pm and 5.30pm at Church of Latter Day Saints, 44 Shide Road, Newport, PO30 1YE

If you’ve never given blood before you’ll probably wonder what the Blood Donation Sessions are and what happens there. They can take place at regular intervals at your local community centre, church or sports club.

You can book an appointment to attend by booking online using the venue finder on the website www.blood.co.uk or by calling their Helpline on 0300 123 23 23.

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Cowes Chiropractic Clinic ... helping your body to heal itself ...

McTimoney Chiropractic Remedial Massage Sports Therapy Skincare Reiki Five Element Acupuncture

Locally sourced hardwood and softwood timber cut to size Main I.O.W agents for Record-Power woodworking tools and equipment and Chestnut finishing Products

one-to-one beginners bowl turning courses Wood turning tuition with Andy Fortune RPT

www.mtwoodturnery.com Tel: 472696 or 07974 240870 Arreton Barns Craft Village

Homeopathy

Tel: 01983 282810 83 Mill Hill Road, Cowes, IW PO31 7EQ www.coweschiropracticclinic.co.uk

DIANA’S SHOWCASE

Knitting Wool & Haberdashery

Knitting & sewing accessories, including babies knitwear, dolls clothes & much, much more.

NOW OPEN AT 9 York Avenue, East Cowes (Next to Library) Mon - Sat 9.30 - 4.30

...stationery y leaflets y flyers y posters y display print y multi-part forms y banners y and much more...

For more information or a quote, please contact us on 01983 534440 or printdept@gmail.com

The Islands Premier Window Cleaner

07955 352 126 or 01983 296445 Traditional & pure water cleaning • windows, sills, gutters, fascias, doors & under eaves • Up to 4 storey houses • Free estimates • Fully insured www.isleofwightwindowcleaning.co.uk follow us on 8

If you would like to promote your business in the next issue email islandmagazines@gmail. com for a rate card and details of special offers or call Debbie on 07880587931

EastCowesAd_Jan2013:Layout 1

22/9/14

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What’s happening in our area by ‘local and vocal’ Lora Peacey-Wilcox ACCIDENT MILL HILL/VICTORIA: Once again, a nasty accident on this corner. Despite having to ask for accident reports under freedom of information from the Police and the evidence we have of the ‘black spot’ that junction is, we are informed that almost all accidents are due to ‘driver error’. I will continue to push to improve the safety…….

FLORAL TRIBUTES AT CEMETRIES: If you did not remove them by 17th January the IW Council have said they will remove them.

WASTE MEETING AMEY: I have been attending these meetings; it is an opportunity to hear ’straight from the top’ about the new contract. If you have any enquiries about how it will operate, and the new gull proof bags etc, then please get in contact. I will do my best to assist.

JOBS/VOLUNTEERING/TRAINING/ADVICE/ HELP/FINANCE: A new group called Community Action Isle of Wight has started up - and gosh is it full of information.

Call them on: 524058 or check out their website: www.communityactioniw.org.uk WATER BILLS: Southern water have staff members who try to help people in severe financial difficulty. They have a tariff called ‘Essential Tariff’. Read their website to find out more: www.southernwater.co.uk or contact me.

AGE FRIENDLY NEWSLETTER: A brilliant, quarterly publication with so much information. Call 525282 or www. agefriendlyisland.org for more information.

SPRING CLEAN?: Don’t just throw it, ask the storeroom if they are interested in taking it, 10

from linen to wardrobes, most items gratefully received. Don’t forget you can also purchase some pretty fabulous bits and pieces from their store at Somerton Industrial Estate. Call 298679 MEDINA VILLAGE/HARRISONS SITE: I have met with concerned business owners using the site. It goes without saying, we are all VERY concerned for the loss of marine business’ on the site. We are all working to solve or come up with a compromise to the situation.

MILL HILL ROAD/LOVE LANE ZEBRA CROSSING: I received complaints about the amount of traffic that does not stop for pedestrians when crossing, particularly the very young children going to school. Please be extra careful/vigilant/slow down on this dangerous stretch of road.

Please contact me with any enquiries, comments or if you wish to have further details: lora@onwight.net or 149 Newport Rd, Cowes. PO31 7PT

Louise Aitken

Massage Therapist at Cowes Chiropractic Clinic

Relax and de-stress and feel the benefits of a massage Experienced in dealing with conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, Diabetes & Arthritis and Pregnancy Massage Tel: 01983 282810 83 Mill Hill Road, Cowes www.coweschiropracticclinic.co.uk

VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.islandmagazines.co.uk ANAGRAMS

SUDOKU

Unscramble the letters to see what the words are, ‘Tis the Season’

Place a number from 1 to 9 in each empty square so that each row, column and 3x3 block contains the numbers 1 to 9 with no repeats

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WORDSEARCH ‘IT’S A GAMBLE’ D F G Q B S P T O P K C A J C

O R R R U X P L E G N A R O E

U E V U A N M I A E C H I G H

B N S S I P E C N Y F N B O A

L L S W L T E W H M S L O E E

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L S R M E N E L N E R E E D B

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M R L T K N D A X R A N Y L A

H C T A M G R E D A C R A O G

N U U K E S L O T T C A S H M

Last Months Answers:- ANAGRAMS - Julia, Debbie, Shirley, Rosemary, Catherine.

MISSING LINKS - ARMCHAIR, arch, root, mint, chip, hair, air, imp, rose.

B B S L O B M Y S E G N A H C

ARCADE BAR BELL BUTTONS CASH CHANCE CHANGE CHERRY COINS DOUBLE FRUIT GAMBLE GRAPES HIGH HOLD JACKPOT LEMON LINE LOSE

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The New Microchipping Law From 6 April 2016 all dogs in England will be legally required to be microchipped and their details registered on one of the authorised databases.

Shockingly the National Dog Warden Association advises that around 40% of dogs it deals with that are already chipped have missing or inaccurate information. People must be encouraged and be reminded to Under the law you are obliged to keep your keep their details up to date to give this law details up to date on the database. Police and some force to do what it is intended for. local authority employees will be issued with microchip reader scanners so that instant To get ready for the 6th April 2016 if you enforcement of the law can be carried out. A have not already had your pet microchipped time window will be allowed for the owner you can easily get this done by your vet and to get the chipping done if their pet is caught many organisation. There is a FREE dog without a chip. After which a £500 fine for microchipping event on Sunday 14th failing to comply will be issued.

February 2016 between 10am and If you sell or otherwise pass the dog on, you as the previous keeper are required to register the new keeper (the wording used is ‘keeper’ rather than ‘owner’ with regard to microchips).

Similarly if your dog dies, you must inform the database that holds your pet’s details.

Puppies must be chipped at their second set of vaccinations – and around the time they are weaned - at 8 plus weeks.

With microchipping, keepers and their dogs will have an official relationship, rather as they did under the old dog licence.

Additionally, the modern technology of microchipping will not only help lost dogs be re-united with their families, it will also connect liable human beings to abused animals. Mistreatment of animals will still happen even if dogs are micrcochipped, but now there will be some redress against the perpetrator on behalf of society and – equally importantly - on behalf of the dog.

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12noon at Avenue Road Car Park, Freshwater. This event is open to all Island residents. There is no limit to the amount of dogs you bring.

Of course cats and other animals that are large enough to take the chip can be microchipped too, in case they get lost or stolen, and this is recommended by welfare charities. There will though be no legal obligation to have your cat - or rabbit or guinea pig - microchipped.

Call: 0800 1182484

Portable Appliance Testing (PAT Testing) Telephone sockets & Faults Data cabling Sound Equipment Hire and more

Full Island Coverage www.westwightaudio.co.uk info@westwightaudio.co.uk

Tuesday the 9th of February is Shrove Tuesday which always falls exactly 47 days before Easter Sunday and the date can be anything between 3rd February and 9th March inclusive.

In the UK, Ireland, Canada and Australia, the day is known as “Pancake Day” as it is a common custom to eat pancakes as a meal. Pancakes are associated with the day preceding Lent because they were a way to use up rich foods such as eggs, milk, and sugar, before the fasting season of the 40 days of Lent. The fasting emphasised eating plainer food and refraining from food that would give pleasure: in many cultures, this means no meat, dairy products, or eggs.

Shrove Tuesday was once known as a “half-holiday” in Britain. It started at 11:00am with the ringing of a church bell. On Pancake Day, “pancake races” are held in villages and towns across the United Kingdom. The tradition is said to have originated in 1445 when a housewife from Olney, Buckinghamshire, was so busy making pancakes that she forgot the time until she heard the church bells ringing for the service. She raced out of the house to church while still carrying her frying pan and pancake, tossing it to prevent it from burning. The pancake race remains a relatively common festive tradition in the UK, even today. Participants with frying pans CONTACT DAN FOR YOUR FREE QUOTATION race through the streets tossing pancakes Telephone: 01983 862695 Mobile: 07816 545283 Email: td.decors@hotmail.co.uk www.tddecors.co.uk into the air and catching them in the pan while running.

For a caring and compassionate service

40 Place Road, Cowes. Tel: 292932 www.geoffleather.co.uk Place Rd Newport

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The traditional pancake is flavoured with sugar and lemon but over the years this has evolved and the filling/topping varieties are endless and are no longer just thought of as a sweet as many people make pancakes with savoury filling on Shrove Tuesday and other days of the year.

Client Parking Private Chapel of Rest Personal Service Pre-Paid Funeral Plans 13

Adrian Kensit Garden Services Garden Maintenance

Tree Surgery

• Crown lifting & • Maintenance & thinning pruning of shrubs • Reduction & shaping • Cultivation & cleaning of borders • Dead wooding • Grass cutting • Tree felling • Hedge cutting • Stump removal We can offer a one-off visit or regular maintenance visits For further info call 07850 489754 or 404720, or email adrian.kensit@btinternet.com

GreenPaws

Landscaping & Gardens From a broken slab to a complete transformation • • • • •

trade price on materials no VAT on labour hour rate from £12 ph free estimates/quotations handmade gates & featheredge panels made to order You can view photos and see reviews from customers on

Cutting Costs Not Quality Industrial & Catering Disposables including cleaning chemicals, tissues, paper rolls, toilet rolls, disposable gloves, washing detergents and fabric softeners to name but a few

Wiper Rolls

FREE ISLAND DELIVERY FOR BUSINESSES

Now offering a Contract Cleaning Service

Contact Details: 01983 882472 / 07710 392313 Email: wiperrolls@outlook.com Units 5/7, Bumbles, 40 High Street, Wootton

If you would like to receive an electronic version of Island Magazines in your email inbox each month send an email to cowesmagazine@gmail.com and type in the word SUBSCRIBE

All Electrical Work Undertaken Domestic and Commercial

GreenPaws Landscaping IOW

07944947662 SIMON MAC

Traditional Painting & Decorating Private & Commercial

“for a professional, reliable & high quality tradesman” Complete Kitchen Makeovers and Kitchen Door Specialist Tel: 294020 or 07769 967 140 Email si.mcm@hotmail.co.uk

Fully Insured - References - Free Estimates 14

Design / Installation / Improvements Home Automation Inspection & Reports Fault finding & Repairs All Types of Lighting Computer Network Cabling �������������������� ������������������� ������ ������������ ������������������������������

Dates for your Diary Friday 5th February (and every Friday thereafter) Baby and Toddler Group @ YMCA Nursery Newport. 1.30 – 3pm . For children aged 0 – 2 years old. Only £1 per family. First visit free.

Friday 5th February – Charity Race Night at The Sun Inn. Fun and friendly night with Greyhound racing videos – starts at 7.30pm.

Make a night of it with meals at just £10 each.

All proceeds from the evening including food and entertainment go to Ability Dogs 4 Young People IOW.

Saturday 13th February – Charity General Knowledge Quiz Night at Newport Football Club. 7.30pm – 10.30pm. In aid of Cats Protection Isle of Wight Teams of up to 6 people and costs £2 per person entry. There will be a raffle, licensed bar and plenty of free car parking available. Come and help raise the kitty for the kitties

Sunday 21st February – Sandman Snowman Come to Small Hope Beach, Shanklin and build a sandman / snowman. Whatever the weather! We bring hot chocolate, carrots and coal, you bring a spade and your silly ideas! Suitable for adults and children.

Saturday 6th February –Charity Auction in aid of The Joe Ellis Fund. At Newport Football Suggested £2 per person donation to Gift To Nature. More details 01983 201565 Club at 7pm. The auction will be held in 2 parts, the first part will be the fun part where Sunday 28th February – 12th Annual ‘Mum’s we auction people. But these people have Memory Day’ Antiques and Collectors Fair to provide a service such as gardening, DIY, cooking, car cleaning, dog walking etc or even at Northwood House, Ward Avenue, Cowes teaching a hobby or skill they may have. (they 10.30am – 3pm Over 25 stalls selling a range of goods from quality furniture, books, are still looking for volunteers) The second part will be auctioning items that have been silver, jewellery, vintage items, vinyl records, garden antiques, china, glass, militaria and donated from various sources for cash. much more. Tea/Coffee and delicious light snacks available to purchase. Entrance £2 Tuesday 9th February – Pancake racing in Kings Square, East Cowes (outside Waitrose) per person. Children Free. In aid of the IOW ECBA has organised this event in conjunction Branch Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association with Holy Cross Primary School and Queensgate. Starting at 2pm Races are being held for Reception and Years 1 through to 6, Friday 4th March – Women’s World Day of Prayer is at 11am at All Saints Church, with a trophy being awarded to the school Gurnard. The theme is ‘Receive Children. with the biggest medal haul! In addition to Receive me’. This will be followed by this, it would be great if as many people as refreshments – Cuba style! (service lasts possible could come along and cheer the approximately one hour). Drop in for as long kids on … and take part in the adult races afterwards! We’re looking to make this as fun or as little as you like. All welcome, men, as possible, so don’t be shy, just bring a frying women and children of any age. pan and we’ll supply the rest!

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News Report from Independent Isle of Wight Cllr Paul Fuller - 74 Wyatts Lane, Cowes, PO31 8QA. Telephone: 01983 289595 - Email: paulfulleriw@gmail.com Road Works - First the Good news! I’ve been advised that following perseverance and support, Island Roads have moved forward their resurfacing schedule for Parklands Avenue from 2017 to September 2016.

Financial settlement, the impact of the living wage, increasing Adult Social Care costs, and the extent to how local authorities can raise Council Tax is being analysed. This will impact on next year’s precept, which is suggested will increase to its maximum level (3.99%)

Last month, I requested that the gully drainage New means, such as devolution are being and ponding which exists in both Parklands explored on how Councils operate in the Avenue and Baring Road is investigated and future. Unless new solutions are found, action taken. authorities including the Isle of Wight will fail to fulfil its statutory duties beyond 2017.

Elsewhere, I received calls concerning roadworks being undertaken by utility companies. Initially this was raised concerning In meetings I’ve attended with Parish and Town Councils, it was made very clear for the closure of Three Gates Road, however all Council’s to work together to ensure similar issues have been reflected following the closure of Worsley Road and Shore Road at those services considered most important the same time in Gurnard. Following concerns, are safeguarded. From my perspective, local councils fully understand the challenges faced I spoke to Contractors and Island Roads. and want to more to assist. When transferring Subsequently, I’m advised it was necessary services from Local Authority to Town/ Parish to close Worsley Road due to the depth of Council’s, I’m working with colleagues to excavations and the narrowness of the road required for contractor to operate within HSE ensure this can be pursued in an easier way. legal requirements.

In light of this our Council Leader, Jonathan Bacon and our MP are again meeting with Cllr John Nicholson and I will be addressing Ministers to underline what we believe is a issues concerning the New Roads and Street unique case for our Island.

Works Act 1991 with our MP. Of concern to us, is how this piece of legislation can Medina Yard - Meetings took place between be potentially abused by Utility Companies businesses, Executive Members, and key undertaking ‘Emergency works’. A recent example of bad practice was when Park Road officers to provide an insight as to challenges being faced. From my point of view, it’s was dug up following resurfacing by Island important for the IW Council to understand Roads. the needs of businesses to ensure they receive focused support.

Isle of Wight Council Budget 2016/7 - I’ve attended briefings linked to next year’s Budget, and how reduced Government funding I received some criticism for not opening up the meeting to more Councillors. In this continues to impact upon how and which instance, I felt compelled that businesses had services the IW Council delivers. the opportunity to be open and frank with Council leaders, and these views were in no Proposals on the future of the New Homes Bonus grant, discontinuation of Governments way diluted.

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News Report from Cllr Paul Fuller continued Volunteer Drivers: Support Needed! - There is a shortage of drivers from Cowes and Gurnard.

The Optio Voluntary Car Service are seeking drivers to support less mobile residents accessing transport to attend appointments at St. Mary’s Hospital and Cowes Medical Centre.

Because of the shortage of drivers this is receiving is of priority for Optio.

If you (or somebody that you know) might be interested in volunteering, or wish to know more about this rewarding and valuable service, please call 01983 522226.

Gritting/Salting routes are: In Cowes (West) these are: Place Road, Park Road, Ward Avenue, Baring Road and Crossfield Avenue.

• Cowes Golf Club, Crossfield Avenue Cowes.

• Westwood Park, Reynolds Close, Cowes, • Sports Field, Isle of Wight Community Club, Park Road, Cowes.

• The Green, Crossfield Avenue, Cowes.

• Mornington Wood and Mornington Green, Mornington Road, Cowes.

• Land adjacent and north of Blackberry Lane, Cowes.

• Grass verges/ open space within & opp.

Magdalen Crescent, Crossfield Avenue, and west of Churchill Road, Cowes.

• Retention of land for Employment use at: • BAE Systems, Northwood.

• Medina Yard, Cowes. (ensuring deep water and water frontage is maintained for marine and maritime industries)

In Gurnard these are: Woodvale Road, Shore Road, Worsley Road and Tuttons Hill.

• Supporting the Medina Estuary is designated as a Local Enterprise Zone.

If you’re concerned Gritting/ Salting does not • Supporting the creation of small scale development, prioritising the local need for 1 take place, let me know! Alternatively, Island Roads are available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week and 2 property units. on 01983 822440.

Also last month: Action was requested and reminders chased up Medina Valley Area Action Plan to repair the street light, Winding Way. Because Public consultation on this local area action plan ended last month. Issues which I flagged of the complex nature of the repair it was necessary to close Shore Road early this month. include: • Removing the settlement boundary from Bonfires continue to cause major concern.

Gurnard.

Last month, it was necessary to request • Safeguarding the Jordan Valley Green Gap, as a means to protect both the Cowes intervention from Environmental Health and and Gurnard communities from settlement action taken which has (so far) resulted in no further bonfires being lit. coalescence.

• Requesting protection of other green spaces from development These include: • Dormers Copse and Land south of Princes Esplanade, Gurnard and Egypt Esplanade, Cowes.

• The Luck Valley bounded by Pallance Road, Cockleton Lane, Marsh Road and Rew Street, Gurnard,

Planning enforcement action is being pursued regarding air-condition planning conditions at Mornington Mews.

Work is due to commence on the Range store, in Place Road. Residents have approached me concerning this how Planning conditions relate to this development.

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The Isle of Wight is home to many different available within the organisation and you can species of wildlife and we are especially lucky find out more by calling Helen on 611003 or to be home to the red squirrel. email wightsquirrels@hotmail.com The Wight Squirrel Project and The IOW Red Squirrel Trust both work together playing an important role in the conservation of the squirrels. Founded and currently voluntarily managed, by Helen Butler BSc MBE, the Isle of Wight’s leading Red Squirrel expert.

The project is run throughout by volunteers.

More recently The IOW Red Squirrel Trust have opened a shop in Ryde High Street, (opposite the Catholic Church Garden, just up from Iceland) where they sell animal themed products along with items made from wood. IOW driftwood products are very popular and they also sell firewood from a woodland they have leased and another they manage for the conservation of red squirrels.

The shop is manned by volunteers and the project desperately needs more volunteers in order for them to open for longer. No experience is necessary and you can choose your times. All that is required are 2 references. If you would like to join the team either pop into the shop for an application form or email redsquirrelshop@hotmail.com for more info.

There are also other situation vacant posts 18

Another vital part that the Wight Squirrel Project is responsible for and for which needs your help is reporting a red squirrel sighting. This can easily be done by going to their website www.wightsquirrels.co.uk and filling in the squirrel sighting form. This information is vital in helping to monitor changes in squirrel behaviour and in planning conservation work.

You can also become a friend of the Red Squirrel via a small donation of ÂŁ5 or more and you will find details of this on their website The Wight Squirrel Project does a wonderful job in protecting the squirrels and you can find out more information about the project and also The IOW Red Squirrel Trust by visiting their websites www.iowredsquirreltrust.co.uk and www.wightsquirrels.co.uk where you can also download the latest newsletter and learn about these wonderful animals and details of future events including woodlands visits and tips on how to see red squirrels in the wild.

I hope you also like the front cover which shows just how adorable and inquisitive the squirrels are and was sent in by Helen Butler.

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