Island Magazines Freshwater, Totland & Yarmouth Area R CH
ISTMAS & H AP
PY
AR
NEW YE PPY
HA
YEA
R . ME R RY C
R
. MERRY C HR I AR YE
HR
S & H A PP Y N EW
W NE
MER RY
CHRISTM AS &
HR
RRY ME
MAS & HAPP IST Y
STMAS & H AP
YEA
MERRY C
HR
M IST
AS & HAP PY
AS &
W NE
W
R
CHRISTM
ER
S & HAPPY NE
A YE
MA ST
A TM IS
HRI
&
.
MAS & HAP IST PY
EAR . MERR YC
RRY
HRISTM AS RY C
NEW YEA R
ME
M
CHRISTMA S&
WY NE
R CH
RRY ME
PPY HA
NEW YEA R
MAS & HAPP IST Y
P PY HA
C RY
MER RY C
R YEA
HR
W NE
ME R
W YEAR NE
W Y EA R NE
ME RR
Y
PY
DECEMBER 2015
P HA
PY NEW YEA R.
Your Local Community Magazine
Dear Readers Welcome to the December issue. Yes.... that’s right Christmas is just around the corner. Firstly, I must apologise to everyone who does the puzzles. Unfortunately we had a gremlin in our system last month and there were three words missing from the wordsearch. We did not realise this had happened until they had been delivered. I hope it didn’t cause you too much confusion and be rest assured we have triple checked this months... Weather wise November hasn’t been that good. It’s been very wet and the temperature is starting to drop. All I seem to keep hearing is that we are going to be getting the worse winter in years, with months of snow and arctic temperatures. Personally I don’t think it will get that bad, although I am hopeful for a bit of snow but not on Christmas day as this will stop people getting to their families at this special time of the year. There is plenty happening across the Island in December and you will find details of these events on the ‘Dates for your Diary’ on pages 12 and 13. You will also find the regular news reports from our Councillors and Parish Councils who do a fantastic job of keeping us up to date each month. Finally I would like to wish every person that reads this, all advertisers and contributors a very Merry Christmas and I look forward to catching up with you all in 2016. Best wishes Debbie
text or call 07880 587 931 email: freshwatermagazine@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. 2
Blossoms of Yarmouth More than just a Flower Shop
Christmas presents and decorations now in stock Pre-order your Christmas flowers, wreaths & table decorations Call 01983 761888 or 07956 528862
2, Wheatsheaf Lane, Yarmouth
Building & Isola Renovations Most aspects of the building trade undertaken
Maintenance - repairs - pointing stonework - renovations
Free estimates - fully insured with qualified tradesmen No job too small - over 25 yrs experience - we cover the entire Island
Tel 01983 857021 or 07961 760474
email: isolamarc15@gmail.com www.isolabuilding.co.uk 16, Pier Street, Ventnor, PO38 1ST Public liability: ISCOMBL16973989
If you would like to promote your business in the next issue email freshwatermagazine@gmail. com for a rate card and details of special offers or call Debbie on 07880 587931
If you are aged 50+ then read on because 50+ Employment Learning Links Ltd is working as part of the Support Programme ‘Ageing Better’ initiative here on the Island Learning Links is working as part of the ‘Ageing and could be the life line that you are looking Better’ initiative on the Isle of Wight to reach out for. They are reaching out to support and support individuals aged 50+. Whether individuals who are either unemployed, at you are unemployed, at risk of redundancy and/or feeling isolated, become more active and risk of redundancy and/or feeling isolated positively engaged in something new in order to and are a great way of meeting new people, meet people and gain new skills. learning new skills & becoming aware of the The Programme consists of the following sessions: opportunities available on the IOW are - I.T. in the workplace All sessions th, ng le in - Networking s ur ho 8 ted over uc nd Setting up your own business co The programme is varied and each session is two 4 hour 8 hours in length and is covered over two 4 sessions This programme is for those that feel isolated, Our current volunteering hour sessions and consists of the following struggling to find opportunities: projects:employment and/or I.T. in the Workplace: Participants will be introduced to the fundamental I.T. skills required to function in the workplace. Participants will learn to set-up, access and send emails, learn to access and use the internet and produce, edit and save Word documents.
those in the process of becoming redundant
• Peer-to-Peer support • Employment Panel
New opportunities available in 2016. Start the New Year with a fresh focus. Contact Learning Links for new dates. For more info, please contact Lee Jones Tel (01983) 527 529 or lee.jones@learninglinks.co.uk
Networking: Participants will explore the varied approaches used to help promote themselves, either on paper, electronically and in person. I.T. will also be used to help participants produce or up-date their C.V, register with on-line Job Sites, and set-up a Facebook page and a Linked-in profile. Setting up your own Business: Participants will explore the varied skills, knowledge and experience needed to set-up their own business and become familiar with the local business environment. Participants will learn how to access additional opportunities to help them prepare for a way forward. There are also volunteering opportunities available; Peer to Peer Volunteer Project and Employment Panel and again both of these are great opportunities which are available in 2016. For more information call Lee Jones on 01983 527529 or email lee.jones@learninglinks.co.uk
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 3
Scott’s Property Maintenance
The perfect Xmas present...
• 1/2 day bowl turning course
• Full day bowl turning course
Scott’s Property Maintenance is a reliable & friendly business, working with homeowners & landlords on the Isle of Wight Services Include Garden Maintenance -
Lawns, Hedging, Clearing, Weeding, Patio & Decking Cleaning.
Painting & Decorating -
Internal/External Painting, Tiling, Wallpapering & General Decor
With Andy Fortune RPT
www.mtwoodturnery.com Tel: 472696 or 07974 240870
Arreton Barns Craft Village, Arreton
NOW OPEN
The Green Barn Isle of Wight Dairy Goats Come and try our range of Goat Cheeses Goats Milk Goats Milk Fudge
All produced from our own herd of Dairy Goats. We also have a great selection of handcrafted gifts and embellishments for the home and garden.
Find us at Main Road, Bouldnor, Yarmouth PO41 0XN Tel: 01983 761310
www.thegreenbarn-isleofwight.co.uk If you would like to receive an electronic version of the Freshwater, Totland & Yarmouth magazine in your email in box every month please email freshwatermagazine@gmail.com and type in the word SUBSCRIBE 4
General Buidling Repairs - Windows, Doors, Drains, Facias & Gutters.
Call for a free quotation
01983 531829 07702680924
scottmacintyre@outlook.com
Scott Macintyre Toby Cottage Lynch Lane Calbourne Isle of Wight PO30 4JQ
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
BRINGING LONDON BUYERS BRINGING LONDON BUYERS TO THE ISLAND TO THE ISLAND WITH THE HELP WITH THE HELP OF OUR OF MAYFAIR MAYFAIR OFFICE OFFICE
Contact Sam Biles MRICS FAAV for a Free Market Appraisal
01983 527744
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
s ’ y hb s Aautos
Tel: 719193
MOT Station Servicing • Repairs • Tyres All garage services supplied Freshwater Garage, Afton Road, Freshwater
Joker Jacks Tattoo Studio Macky & Gemma would like to welcome you to their new venture. Having recently moved from the mainland to open our 4th tattoo studio, Joker Jacks in East Cowes, offering a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. We specialise in freehand tattooing for that exclusive one off tattoo design that many of our clients desire. Bring your design, artwork or ideas and Macky who has more than 25 years’ experience in the tattoo business will develop a tattoo you will be proud to display. We are always happy to offer advice on existing tattoos that you may want covering up or maybe even revamping and given a new lease of life, as well as any new ideas. Feel free to pop by the studio for a chat or contact us via our Facebook page or email. Look forward to seeing you soon
5
Fracking Five blocks of the Isle of Wight could soon be awarded licences for exploration and development of oil and gas extraction by conventional or unconventional methods such as fracking. Hydraulic fracturing or ‘fracking’ is a controversial technology used for extracting oil or gas resources which are otherwise trapped in shale rocks and similar deposits. Wells are drilled vertically then horizontally underground through these rock formations. Many horizontal sections, each typically over a mile long, can be drilled from each vertical well. Holes are blasted through the well casings ready for the fracking process which involves forcing huge volumes of locally sourced fresh water mixed with various chemicals and sand through these holes at extremely high pressure to fracture the rock. The sand keeps the fractures open allowing the oil or gas to flow to the surface. Only a proportion of the fracking fluid returns to the surface as ‘flowback’, typically 20-40%. No one can be really sure where the other 60-80% ends up. The fluid that does return to the surface contains varying quantities of radioactive materials carried from deep underground. Opinions are divided. Some believe it will be good for the economy, others are concerned about the increasing evidence of harm to the environment and public health, but many more remain unaware that this is happening at all. With Isle of Wight licence awards imminent we encourage everyone to educate themselves now so that informed decisions can be made when the time comes. Please help us to keep you informed of important local developments: Come to our public meetings. Facebook: Frack Free Isle of Wight Twitter @FrackFreeIOW Text ALERT to 07864668338 For email newsletters and further information: www.frackfreeisleofwight.org 6
The girls from Isle of Wight Flowers have been working really hard sorting and planning designs for their Christmas range. They know you are just going to love the Christmas Sleigh flower arrangement (see main advert) that proved very popular last year and makes an ideal gift or centre piece for your hallway or office desk. Isle of Wight Flowers are able to source all your seasonal foliage and sundries to help you create the perfect Christmas look, whether its for your table centrepiece, mantelpiece, door arches or side tables, their range of blue pine, noble fir bundles, holly with berries, pine cones, cinnamon sticks, contorted willow and many more fabulous pieces including tea lights in jam jars, ribbon and napkins will help you create the perfect look. Don’t worry if you don’t have the time to create these masterpieces yourself as Charlotte and Emma started taking orders for Christmas table arrangements from the 16th November and they particularly love the Christmas Cracker Shaped Table Arrangement and the Chunky Candle Table Wreath Arrangement. Pop in store and see them for yourself. If you are looking for the perfect gift they are now taking orders for their range of Luxury Hamper Gifts and traditional Christmas wreaths and they also have a selection of ready made and DIY wreath rings for all your Christmas crafting needs. For more information see their main advert or pop in and see Charlotte and Emma at Isle of Wight Flowers, Avenue Road, Freshwater. 7
Lost and Found It’s always good to hear how communities can work together for the good of others and here on the Isle of Wight there is a group of 6 people who work tirelessly behind the scenes 24 hours a day and 365 days a year doing everything they possibly can to reunite people and pets.
lost and missing dogs and they are in contact with other agencies both here and on the mainland. If you find a lost cat or dog they can advise you of the best option and put you in contact with people who can scan the animal to see if it is chipped.
Lost Pets IOW is a group that started back in 2011 and thanks to Facebook has gone from Losing a pet must be one of the most heart strength to strength and are only just a few stopping moments you can experience and numbers away from reaching an impressive the Lost Pets IOW team understand this and 7,500 members. Back in the day the admin can help by being the glue that keeps you were excited when they reached 100 members together through this traumatic experience. and never imagined that this group would They go above and beyond the call of duty become so important to so many Island and on many occasions they are in contact residents. with the owners on a personal basis rather than the public forum. The whole team treat Lost Pets IOW does exactly as it says on the each lost animal as if it’s their own and on tin‌ and has been successful in reuniting some occasions those lost animals have been best buddies together again. Whether you theirs!!! have a wondering cat or an escapee dog, Lost Pets IOW can help. They can give you the The Lost Pets IOW team do this out of love information you need on who to contact and for the animals and although some of them which process to follow to ensure all angles are retired they still fit in all these hours into are covered. They are aware of hideaway their daily routines. There are no wages, no hotspots in different areas of the Island which big bonuses but they have the knowledge that some moggies are well known for visiting and they have helped so many distraught animals with the help of their members the net can be and people over the years. spread far and wide in the search for missing animals. If you are a pet owner then join the group as a member on Facebook by going to Lost Pets Members help in many different ways, by IOW and press the join button. If you should passing on information, putting up and find yourself missing your furry companion removing of posters, spreading the word and then put a post on their page in the first even doing nightly sit outs looking for these instance with photographs, details and as elusive pets. In some cases it is more than much information as you can. They have a list just a wondering pet and sometimes dogs of documents available to view online which have been scared off by noises (particularly contain all the vital numbers and information fireworks) and have disappeared. Obviously needed for the first few steps of missing on these occasions the dog will be scared animals and one thing you can be sure of is and may not answer to its name and may run the Lost Pets IOW team and all its glorious further away when approached but the team members will be supporting you and helping in are able to offer valuable advice in tracking any way they can in ensuring your pet returns home to you. 8
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
Rotary
Mill Road Garage
Tel: 01983 760436 Complete Bodyshop repair and repaint services for all those minor dents and accident damage.
CAR MOT FROM £30
Shoe Box Appeal
Island Magazines was proud to be able to help promote the Shoe Box Appeal for the Rotary in the October issue of the magazine.
Car Servicing From conditions apply £59 Short • £99 Annual • £195 Premium
Includes all parts, labour & VAT
Golden Hill Park, Freshwater, PO40 9UJ millroadgarage@outlook.com
All the shoe boxes have been handed in and totalled up and packed into big boxes and put in crates and are now on their way to disadvantaged children in Albania, Montenegro, Moldova and the Philippines. Thanks to the wonderful generosity of local people the Rotary are pleased to be able to advise that this year there was a total of 499 boxes from the Isle of Wight. We should all be proud of this figure and the knowledge that disadvantaged children will be receiving a Christmas present.
Totland Parish Council News Firstly, The Councillors and the Clerk would like to wish all residents in Totland a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. They would also like to thank the volunteers for their time this year, once again you have done an amazing job by keeping Totland flowering.
Remembrance Sunday: This year the Royal British Legion West Wight Branch Annual Service of Remembrance was held at St James Square, Yarmouth on Sunday 8th November. The Chairman, Councillor Vince Christmas Opening Times – The Parish Office will close on Thursday 17th December 2015 at Fennell laid a wreath and the Vice Chairman Councillor David Filby laid a wreath at Totland 12 noon and reopen on Monday 4th January War Memorial. 2015 at 9.00am. Rubbish Collections - From 1st November, Amey now provide the Waste Collection on the Isle of Wight. Collection days will remain the same and will continue with food waste collected weekly and recyclable and nonrecyclable waste will be collected alternate weeks. Calendars up to April 2016 are available from the Parish Office.
Skate Park: A new piece of equipment was designed by a local architecture student and completed a 72 hour challenge. The park was saw equipment updated and culminated with a skate jam which was attended by existing and new users. Dogs on Leads: This has been better lately, however, please keep your dogs on leads where required to do so and don’t forget to pick up after them. The Recreation Ground especially is used by children and if you do not pick up after your dog their excrement can cause serious health issues. This is a play area for children and consideration is needed. BE RESPONSIBLE. Spot checks are being held regularly and we urge you to report any witnessed dog fouling in our area. To report any incidents of dog fouling please contact 01983 821000.
Green Garden Bags; Changes have been made to the collection of your green garden bags. The bags are still available from the Parish Office at £1.30 each, but a dedicated lorry will now be used to collect the green waste for composting at Lynnbottom. They will be collected on your scheduled recycling day, rather than your black bag day as before. To pre-book this collection please telephone 823777 and give at least three working days’ notice to help guide the route. If you have any problems with this service please let the Clerk Open Spaces: One Horse Field was discussed at the November parish meeting and we are know. pleased to be partnership working with Natural Enterprise. Work on the blackthorn will be The ‘Household Waste Recycling Centre’ at Afton Marsh has also extended opening times, carried out before Christmas and further works they will open for 3 days Saturday, Sunday and will continue during 2016/2017. Monday and opening times at the moment are Colwell Common: The top area has now been 9.30am to 4.30pm. cut and there is still a mixed response to this area and how it should look. Please let the Christmas Refuse & Recycling Collections for Councillors know what you think by either Totland: writing a letter or emailing the Clerk. The Waste normally collected on: Monday 21st decision will not be made until July 2016. December will now be collected on Saturday 19th December. Everything else as normal
Totland Parish Council News
Have you got Gutter Clutter?
Over flowing gutters can cause Police Beat Surgeries: Beat Surgeries continue problems with damp, erosion and you are urged to drop in and speak to your & even subsidence. We can local Neighbourhood Policing Team if you have quickly clear guttering up to 12 meters from ground level, using the latest any concerns between 11.00am and midday technology of the SkyVac Gutter Clearer on Monday 14th December. Pictures provided to show the results. Prices start from just £20 West Wight Arts Association - tickets can be WE ALSO OFFER
purchased or reserved from the Parish Office for monthly concerts held in the Memorial Hall.
External Surface Cleaning of drives & patios Decking, fence and garden structure treatments Domestic & Commercial
Call 01983 216121 or 07590 277298
Email info.igtc@gmail.com @IslandGTC www.facebook.com/islandgardentimbercare www.islandgardentimbercare.co.uk
CONTACT DETAILS: Parish Clerk – Mrs Helen Gibbs - Telephone 756028. Totland Parish Council, Winchester House, The Broadway, Totland Bay, PO39 0AX. The parish office is open Monday - Thursday 9am–12 noon. Email: totlandparishco@googlemail.com or follow the Clerk on Twitter @TotlandClerk We have just started a Facebook page which will keep you updated on what is going on in Totland. Ward Councillor John Howe Telephone 753414 or email: john.howe@iow.gov.uk
The Parish Council meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month, except August, and all residents are welcome.
Solar, Wind and Hydro Power: index-linked, income tax free. The best investment you’ll find Commercial, domestic and not-for-profit systems from the Island’s experts
Accredited for the Feed-in Tariffs for Wind & PV r e d i01983 t d 247981 f o r t hmail@engenius.co.uk e F e e d - i n T a r www.engenius.co.uk i f f s f or W i n d & e 11
Dates for your Diary Saturday 5th December – Women’s Day on the Isle of Wight at Unitarian Meeting House, High Street, Newport. 10am – 4pm. Enjoy a break and a little ‘me time’. Meet friends, explore holistic therapies, organic cosmetics, yoga teachers, angel readings, gifts and jewellery and much more. Sunday 6th December – Hospice Santa Dash – 11 am Entry into this year’s event is only £15 per Santa over the age of 12 years old, and £5 for all Santa’s under 12. This entry fee includes your Santa Suit to run in and take home, along with festive refreshments. For more info go to www.iwhospice.org or call 528989 Tuesday 8th December – Action on Hearing Loss Sensory Service open day. 10am – 2pm at 17b River Way, Newport PO30 5UX. Learn more about the free services and information available to support those living with a sensory loss and their friends and family. Hearing aid maintenance & hearing checks, equipment for hearing and sight loss. See how our Befriending Service helps the community. Take a chance on our Tombola. Tel: 01983 529533 for more information
Football Club. 7.30pm – 10.30pm. Teams of up to 6 people. £2 per person to enter. There will be a raffle, licenced bar and free car parking. All money raised goes to Wessex Cancer Trust. Phone: 01983 527957 Saturday 12th December – VENTNORVILLE - for crazy Christmas capers, celebrate the festive season in Ventnor style, with the Grinch, fake snow, panto and much more. Meet the Grinch – The Grinch will be in Upper Ventnor by St Francis School at 10am to see his fans! Riding his Sleigh down into town at 10.30ish! ARTS & CRAFTS MARKET will take place from 10.30 – 4.30pm. We are holding an Island FOOD MARKET at Ventnor Central (old youth centre ) There will be a travelling tea room with scrumptious cakes and stalls with Sticky Sweet goodies, Christmas Theme chocolates, Candy Floss and Popcorn etc. LIVE NATIVITY SCENE – come and see the traditional Bible Story scene in the stable will be Live Animals and characters from the story, maybe even a lobster! This will be at the Spar, Victoria Street. Children’s Fancy Dress Competition will be taking place at St Catherines Church at 3pm – come dressed as your favourite Disney Character, Cash Prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place.. Santa’s Grotto £1 entry and every child gets a present. The Winter Carnival and Lantern Parade starts from Dudley Road at 4.30pm, around the town finishing at the park . Family Carol Service at our prize winning park with commence at 5.15pm approx. with Hot Drinks & Mince Pies provided by Ventnor Enhancement Fund
Thursday 10th December until Sunday 13th December. Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival. Over 150 theme decorated trees displayed in seven venues in or near Brighstone. Free admission open from 10am – 5pm. Free park and ride from The Isle of Wight Pearl and Brighstone Holiday Centre on the Military Road. For further information contact Chris Goodman on 07808 132585 or go to www.bxtf.org Saturday 12th December – Frosted Fantasy Land 12pm – 5pm at Salvation Army Hall, Pyle Friday 11th December – Charity Music Quiz Street, Newport . A magical frosted land for in aid of Wessex Cancer Trust at Newport your little ones to enjoy! Come as a 12
Dates for your Diary winter fairy or pixie, an enchanted princess or prince, santa’s little helper, a snowman, an angel or anything your heart desires and join in the fun. Take part in the workshops and make your very own Bauble to take home and hang on the tree...or perhaps a Christmas card for someone special! Decorate a homemade gingerbread man to keep. Hang your Christmas wish list on the tree for the fairies to take to Santa. Take a photo with a real Christmas fairy in a beautiful snow scene. Join in with games and sing along. Have a look round some pretty stalls in a tiny village and perhaps find some last minute presents. Feast on a plate of frosted fantasy nibbles (included in ticket price per child) £10 per ticket on arrival (child only - mummies and daddies are FREE)
Saturday 19th December – Cowes Christmas Festival at Cowes Yacht Haven. 10am – 4pm The Festival includes: Live cookery demonstrations at our interactive Cookery Theatre featuring top local chefs Food tastings and samplings Over 50 food, drink and gift stalls Festive entertainment including The Vox Pop Choir Vintage Vacation Santa’s Grotto Free Children’s Christmas Crafts With a host of great quality exhibitors and festive entertainment, it’s an event you don’t want to miss. Free entry
Saturday 26th December – Ventnor Boxing Day Swim. Join over 100 people who brave the cold winter waters for a dip in the sea this Boxing Day! Sponsor forms for the 32nd Boxing Day Swim are available from The Ale and Oyster on Ventnor Esplanade or Monday 14th December - Friends of Inspirations (formerly A and B’s Emporium) Freshwater Library Christmas Party with The High Street Ventnor or by phoning Brighstone Barnacles. 7pm - 9pm. Come 857174/855519. This is an organised event and join in the Christmas Fun. Refreshments by PATCH a local cancer charity which helps available. patients with the costs incurred through their illness. Lots of fun so come and join in. Thursday 17th December - The Rotary Club of Cowes is staging its traditional Christmas Concert at St Mary’s Church in Cowes. As always, proceeds will go to the Church, the Isle of Wight Concert Band who will be providing the music, and to help local causes Island wide coverage via the Rotary Trust Fund. This concert is City & Guilds qualified tradesman always a great way to get in the mood for Fully insured Christmas and it helps others at the same All aspects of property maintenance time. Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7.30 pm start and tickets are £5 for Adults and £1.50 Established since 1987 for children. Seasonal refreshments will be Insurance estimates undertaken served during the interval and there will be a raffle too. Tickets may be obtained from For a free estimate or advice call Mark Allen on Beresfords of Cowes, Under the Umbrella 07341 668357 / 01983 754459 Tree of East Cowes or by ringing 280839 or email:- allens.building1@btinternet.com
Allen's Property Maintenance & Decorating
13
Report from Stuart Hutchinson: West Wight Ward. White Acre, Main Road, Wellow, Yarmouth PO41 0TD Tel:760048 email stu.hutch@btinternet.com. This month I return to the topic of devolution. I know some will groan, because its not a subject that is popular or well understood. But the things that are agreed at regional and government levels have a local impact. A case in point is the recent and sudden closure of Weston Academy School. Funding for schools follows pupil numbers and with fewer pupils the school became financially unsustainable. The decision to close it was taken by the trust running it and the Department for Education. That is because it is an Academy and local democratically elected representatives, like Councillors, had no say.
delivering business-led skills and training initiatives, we need to have an organisation which is bigger than the Island Council, or even Hampshire Council, but still more local and responsive than national government, and represented by people who you elect locally and who understand and can champion the needs of the area. That’s what our bid for decision making to be devolved from Government is all about. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight (HIOW) bid also includes all the district councils in the area and the two cities. It’s supported by other organisations, like the National Parks Authorities the two Local Enterprise Partnerships.
Contrast that with the suggested closure of Carisbrooke, a school which has had some difficult times recently, but under its new head teacher, is rapidly improving. The decision to continue to support it was taken by councillors who listened to the concerns and impassioned pleas of parents, children and teachers. The decision to keep it open was made because we could.
There’s too much information go into detail here, but if you want to learn more there is a full prospectus about the devolved powers we seek, and what we expect to deliver with them, on the Council’s website. Discussions with the Secretary of State took place in late November, and an extraordinary meeting of the Council to take any decisions to carry this forward has been arranged for 15th December.
That’s an example of why getting decision making away from government and closer to home is more likely to deliver what local people want. Even if, eventually, Weston had had to close – one thing we can’t deliver is enough children to keep a school open indefinitely - the change would have been managed slowly, carefully and sympathetically, with those affected being given plenty of notice and preparations made for the schools receiving the children to be properly equipped and funded to take them.
On a much more local issue, I was delighted to be able to take a trip on Scoot, the new ferry service running from Yarmouth to Lymington. A very fast service, friendly crew and straight into town quay. I understand there’s to be an onward bus connection to pick up the train at Brockenhurst.
But we have to balance local decision making with effective finance and management, and for some things such as regional planning, major economic development proposals,
Their service on a new route from Cowes to Portsmouth started about a month ago. It’s good to see some competition for the big ferry operators and I wish them every success. It’s an Island owned firm, employing Island people and using boats made and serviced here. Finally, my best wishes to all readers for health and happiness in this festive season!
The Blue Crab Fish Restaurant High Street Yarmouth PO41 0PL 01983 760014 www.thebluecrab.co.uk Open Tues – Sat 11-3 & 6-11
Come and try our Luxurious Fish Pie, Seafood Lasagne, Scallops with our homemade pesto, or our lovely Smoked Haddock & Leek Omelette. We can easily cater for allergy sufferers Special Offer 2 Courses for £10 Available Nov & Dec. Please book for this offer Starters Crab & Spinach Pancakes Grilled Halloumi with Pesto Salad Breaded Whitebait fillets with tartare sauce
Mains ½ Pot Roast Thorley Pheasant Grilled Cod with Champ & a Mussel Sauce Roasted Tomato & Courgette Pasta with Olives Homemade Deserts Bitter Chocolate Tart Lemon & Raspberry Mousse Poached Pears in Mulled Cider
IVORY
4 High Street, Yarmouth Tel 01983 760994
SALON & NAIL BAR
IVORY
Beautiful boutique style salon in the heart of Yarmouth, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Cutting and Styling for Ladies and Gents, UNISEX SALON &Waving, NAIL BAR Kebelo Smoothing, Coloring, Bridal Work and Hair Up Specialist's.
Nail Bar: Gel Nail Extensions, Gel Overlay's, Nail
Art, Manicures, Pedicures, Waxing & Threading
Joico Hair Care, Matrix Color & Ghd Stockist
2 High Street, Yarmouth Tel 01983 760994
Beauty and Holistic Hand and Foot Treatments • Gel Overlay's • PHD Waxing • Lash and Brow Treatments • Facials • Massage • Reflexology • Indian Head Massage and Aromatherapy Pamper Packages and Vouchers available for a beautiful well presented Gift. Burt's Bees Stockist. Like our pages on Facebook and see all Offers. Experience peace and tranquility as you step through the door 16
Unlock your future. Build your new foundations now.
Maggie Currie Coaching will help you to get bigger results by showing you how to think more clearly and perform better. You will learn how to reconnect with YOU. Coaching Work with Maggie Currie, an established is frequently life changing. Maggie uses freelance coach, mentor, consultant, the three principles (mind, consciousness, speaker, author & survivor. Coaching is thought) to help you rediscover you, often life changing, Maggie encourages become content being you and to move you to step out of your comfort zone. forward to where you want to be. That is a 01983 754 666 good place to be. Get in touch www.maggiecurrie.co.uk today Email: hello@maggiecurrie.co.uk Maggie works with clients face-to-face, over the phone and/or via Skype. The very first session is carried out over 2 hours (either in person or via Skype). Following that she will work with you via monthly sessions for a minimum of three months. Your investment is both monetary and time. You can contact Maggie for a free 15 minute chat to discover how she will support you through the changes you want to make. She will deliver the goods and help you get the results you want. It is time to really invest in yourself. Call Maggie on 01983 754666 or see her main advert
For a FREE can of SPOT REMOVER
Go to our Website www.chemdryfirst.co.uk Who can you Trust to Clean your • Carpets • Upholstery • Drapes
First
A “Which Trust Trader”
Call now on 01983 295518 quoting reference number IM12/F
for a free quote or advice
Carpet Dirty? Get Chem Dry First to clean them we’ll also include FREE carpet protection. Upholstery Not Looking It’s Best? Get Chem Dry First to bring back its freshness and luster. Rugs Lost their Bounce? Have Chem Dry First put the bounce and freshness back in. Curtains and Drapes Looking Drab and Lifeless? Chem Dry First will bring back the life and freshness to them. 17
VISIT OUR WEBSITE www.islandmagazines.co.uk WORDSEARCH “CHECKMATE” C E R A U Q S K H C T A M D B
H T Q U W K B U I N X O I N L
E I L E C A N S W N V A E X A
C H A A M A R A E E G E T E C
K W T P C A P D R O U N J H K
M T N I A K G T N Q E X E R E
A A O E S C F A U N D S O P C
T M Z C T A L E O R S N O P N
E K I E L B M P A E E H L L E
O O R S E I P O L E S J U A F
K O O W T O B K N I G H T Y E
R R H K C O L C B R U L E S D
ATTACK BACK BISHOP BLACK BOARD CAPTURE CASTLE CHECKMATE CHESS CLOCK DEFENCE DIAGONAL DRAW GAME HORIZONTAL KING KNIGHT LOSE
MATCH MOVE OPPONENT PAWN PIECES PLAY QUEEN RANK ROOK RULES SQUARE TIME WHITE
Anagrams Unscramble the letters to see what the words are, are they stoned.
TEAGA TANGER LEAMDER HASPIPER MENOTONSO 18
MISSING LINKS Find the missing words in the middle so as each one will connect to the words on either side (eg – wishing – well – done ). The first letter of each missing word read from top to bottom will spell out a popular play.
APPLE MAIDEN FORT FALSE TAKE FULL STEAM BUTTER TAKE IT
REPORT SALLY LIGHT DECAY FILL LIGHT BAR MAID CHAIR
Last months answers:ANAGRAMS - legal, lawyer, justice, innocent, barrister. MISSING LINKS - FLAMENCO, fish, link, after, milk, east, name, cream, open.
10YEAR
Call to arrange your FREE QUOTATION GUARANTEE
WISHING YOU ALL a MERRY CHRISTMAS & a PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR 2016
Call to arrange your FREE QUOTATION
Resin Stone Driveways Resin Stone Driveways Beautiful Surface Overlays - for your driveway Beautiful Surface Overlays - for your driveway
What is a Resin Stone Overlay? Resin Stoneis Overlaying is effectively surfacing over your existing block-paved, tarmac or What a Resin Stone Overlay? concrete driveway, path or patio. Resin Overlays provide a highly cost-effective and quick
BEFOR BEFORE E
Resin Stone Overlaying is effectively surfacing overDriveway. your existing block-paved, tarmac or way of replacing the surface in the Garden or on the As well as being aesthetically concreteand driveway, path or patio. Resin Overlays provide a highly cost-effective and quick pleasing highly durable, the benefits include: Being both solvent and odour free, way of replacing the surface in the Garden or on the Driveway. As well as being aesthetically during and after application - Restricting growth of weeds - Eliminating loose stones pleasing and highly durable, benefits include: Being both Drainage solvent and odour free, Being environmentally friendlythe - Compliance with Sustainable Systems (SuDS). during and after application - Restricting growth of weeds - Eliminating loose stones Being environmentally friendly - Compliance with Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS).
How is it done? We initiallyis prepare the existing surface using a high-pressure jet washer system and primer, How it done? before applying your chosen resin stone combination. The overlays typically take 1-2 days with
We initially prepare the existing surface using a high-pressure jet washer system and primer, minimal inconvenience. before applying your chosen resin stone combination. The overlays typically take 1-2 days with minimal inconvenience.
Finishing We also offer a range of natural or blended stone and surrounding landscaping options Finishing including moon stone to truly personalise your resin installation.
We also offer a range of natural or blended stone and surrounding landscaping options including moon stone to truly personalise your resin installation.
BEFOR BEFORE E
““
Loved the chaps from Angel Coatings, they were jolly, friendly and a joy to have Loved the chaps Angel Coatings, around, as well asfrom highly professional! they were jolly, friendly and a joy to have as well as Ifaround, you’re thinking of highly havingprofessional! your drive or pathway done, call Angel Coatings. If you’re thinking of having your drive or can’t pathway done, call Angel Coatings. We recommend them highly enough!
AFT AFTER ER
““
We can’t recommend them highly enough!
Mr & Mrs C. Morley Mr & Mrs Newport C. Morley Newport
AFTER AFTER
Supporting We proudly support the Supporting Earl Mountbatten Hospice
Over the past year! We£1500 proudlydonated supportinthe Earl Mountbatten Hospice Over £1500 donated in the past year!
Order a driveway to be laid in 2016 and you’ll receive a Busy Bee
Find usFind at us at
Christmas hamper in time for Christmas! Order in November and receive a Christmas hamper from Busy Bee, Ryde * *TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY
our wall or roof coatings contact us: For more inf our wall869 or roof 01983 030coatings contact us: www.angelcoatings.co.uk
01983 869 030 www.angelcoatings.co.uk
We cover all areas of the Isle of Wight We cover all areas of the Isle of Wight 19
Isle of Wight Night Shelter Being homeless and having nowhere to go must be one of the hardest challenges to face and many people believe that there isn’t really a problem on the Island and granted its not as bad as some of the big towns on the Mainland but the Isle of Wight does have a small group of 100 – 150 homeless. The advantage to this number is between us all we should be able to help these people, because they are people just like us. They range from 18 years old through to 74 years and with winter fast approaching the worst time for being homeless is drawing closer. There is a Homeless Shelter on the Island at Downside School, Pan Estate, Newport. This shelter is open from the 1st December until the 31st March and is open from 7pm until 8am, 7 days a week. Anyone arriving at the shelter will be given a hot meal, shower, bed for the night and washing facilities for their clothes and some clean ones if needed and they will also be given breakfast. Last year they had over 65 people coming through their doors from all different walks of life. We can all help and do our bit, whether its donating warm jumpers, jeans, warm coats, clothes, toiletries, and new underwear and 20
socks which can be handed to people using the shelter. Or perhaps you are able to volunteer one night a week and even stay over as more volunteers are desperately needed, especially men. Donations can be dropped off at Downside Community Centre, Pan Estate, Newport between 8am and 4pm Monday to Friday. The shelter is run by Andy and Ruth Davis and a team of volunteers on behalf of the Isle of Wight Council and has been open for 4 years but unfortunately this is the last year it will be operating as the Council have plans to turn it back into a school. This is devastating news for the team and also for the homeless people and Andy and Ruth are looking to the future and want to be able to buy their own building to be able to fully support this project. Obviously as you can imagine money is a major issue so if anybody would like to give a money donation to help move this project forward, it will be greatly received as they would like to plan to be open all year round and not just the winter. If you can help in any way at all then please either drop off donations or you can contact Andy on 07811 003361 or email him on andy@iwnightshelter.org
All Electrical Work Undertaken Domestic and Commercial CONTACT DAN FOR YOUR FREE QUOTATION Telephone: 01983 862695 Mobile: 07816 545283 Email: td.decors@hotmail.co.uk www.tddecors.co.uk
Design / Installation / Improvements Home Automation Inspection & Reports Fault finding & Repairs All Types of Lighting Computer Network Cabling �������������������� ������������������� ������ ������������ ������������������������������
...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
If you would like to promote your business in the next issue. Email freshwatermagazine@gmail.com for a rate card or text/call Debbie on 07880 587931
Greenwood
Complete Property Maintenance for your Home and Garden
No job too small. Friendly, competent service you can rely on.
Please call John on 760007 or Adrian on 721832 john@droupin.plus.com All work guaranteed
21
FRESHWATER PARISH COUNCIL NEWS Despite the thoughtless subsequent actions of a few, our Skateboard Park has had an upgrade with new ramps and jumps. All the action was filmed and is available to view on this website address https://goo.gl/FcDQvN
funds to meet this provision. This is done through what is known as the Precept. It is important that we hear your views and make it abundantly clear where you wish your money to be spent.
Cllr Krissy Lloyd deserves thanks for her efforts in coordinating this Project. As part of this filming, the use of a camera ‘drone’ has meant that there is also some fantastic aerial footage of Freshwater which we are hoping to put on our web site shortly.
As an example, last year West Wight Sports and Community Centre lost an IWC subsidy of £78000 per annum. This basically meant that the facility would close.
Another busy month where lots of time and effort has gone into endeavouring to work with Isle of Wight Council to examine possibilities whereby certain services and facilities could be run in the future by Freshwater Parish Council in some form.
You will know how Clare and her team have worked their socks off to develop the service they provide.
After listening to the views of our community FPC last year decided to support WWSCC to In the Parish Office we have now put the last the tune of £30000 per year for three years touches to getting the Christmas decorations in order that this important facility would organised. I sure we will see the benefit this remain and grow. Hopefully, ultimately to be year throughout the Village. self sufficient.
It is a lot of money and represents approximately £1 per month from every property in Freshwater. Totland PC also made It is clear that the Isle of Wight Council will a great contribution and a number of our not have funds in 2016-17 and subsequent other neighbouring councils also were able years to provide many of the services that we to help. associate with them. Despite the natural protestations that, ‘We It is therefore clear that in order for those pay our Council Tax. Why do we need to pay services to continue we must explore all again for services?’ the reality is such that options including working with other local reduced funding from Central Government Councils. We are fortunate that FPC is promeans that the IWC will not have sufficient active and welcomes the potential for our funds to provide any services beyond those community to support services and facilities that it has a statutory responsibility to that it values. provide. Our next big challenge is ‘Freshwater’, or It is limited by how much it can raise Council should it be ‘West Wight, Library.’ Tax to 1.99% but at this time local councils, such as Freshwater PC, are still able to raise IWC have recently given approval to negotiate with FPC over the continued provision of the library service in Freshwater. We are anxious 22
FRESHWATER PARISH COUNCIL NEWS to secure tenure of the existing building and site in order to extend the services that we can provide. There will also be negotiations over the future of Public Conveniences. There will be cost implications and Freshwater Parish Council will be holding a Consultation Day and Public Meeting in January in order to hear your views on proposals. We are also getting close to undertaking, in partnership with IWC and Island Roads, some upgrades within the current financial year, to Avenue Road. These will include increased on street parking, provision of pedestrian crossing points, footway widening and other safety features together with some enhancement. These proposals are yet to be finalised and we will again consult with our community. Watch this space!
Yarmouth Garden Machinery Est. 1982
Tel 760466
• Repairs & Servicing • Spares (all makes) • Collection Service • New Machines & Accessories Main Agent for Rock Oil Motorcycle Products
Unit 2B, Golden Hill Park, Freshwater, PO40 9UJ
Stephen Hatherall
Painter, Decorator & Home Maintenance Over 35 years experience
Wallpapering • Artexing • Tiling Pointing • Plastering • Painting Garden Fencing and more Call 07713923245 or 01983 761888
Sorry this has been a bit wordy but lots to tell you about. Finally on behalf of Freshwater Parish Council can I wish you all a Merry Christmas? I reckon it will snow!
Mike Wheeler Chair Freshwater Parish Council
General Plumbing, Repairs and New Ace Plumbing Installation work Services is a locally based including family run Bathroom Suites business. & Showers. Phone: 759794 Free Estimates. or Reasonable Rates 07814605938
Adrian Crilly - Plumber
Email: AdrianPlumber@aol.com 23
Your Local Minibus Service
DECEMBER 2015
PLEASE NOTE: FYTbus SCHEDULED SERVICES operate to THREE scheduled timetables – Route A (between Freshwater Bay and Yarmouth) and Route B (around Freshwater, Totland, and Colwell) in the mornings, and Route C (between Yarmouth, Freshwater Bay, Freshwater, Totland and Colwell) in the afternoons. Catch us at our bus stops, or just hail us on those parts of our routes which do not have stops. Free bus passes are accepted. Timetables are available on our buses, or you can pick one up from our Totland office, as well as the health and leisure centres, libraries, newsagents and pharmacies in Freshwater, Totland and Yarmouth. DECEMBER EXCURSIONS. As usual, these will be on a door to door basis, with the minibus picking you up from and delivering you back to your home. If you would like more information, do not hesitate to give us a call, between 09.45 and 12.30 any weekday, or leave a message on our answering machine and we’ll call you back. Remember to book early if you would like to travel on one or more of our trips, by phoning our office on 01983 752917. If a minimum number of bookings is not achieved for an excursion, we might have to cancel it (as you will appreciate, we have to cover our costs), but we will always let you know. Excursions will be confirmed (or cancelled) by phone, one day before departure. Please note that bus passes are not accepted on our excursions. DECEMBER EXCURSIONS
OUT
BACK
FARE
5
Sainsbury’s/Morrisons/M&S/Lidl
09.30
13.00
£5.50
12
Sainsbury’s/Morrisons/M&S/Lidl
09.30
13.00
£5.50
12
Cowes & Waitrose, E.Cowes
09.30
13.00
£7.00
13
Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival
13.00
16.30
£5.50
19
Sainsbury’s/Morrisons/M&S/Lidl
09.30
13.00
£5.50
Wight Community Access – FYTbus, Winchester House, The Broadway, Totland Bay. PO39 0AX Tel: 01983 752917
Web: www.fytbus.org.uk
Email: info@fytbus.org.uk