Island Magazines November 2022 Newport & Carisbrooke Area

Newport & Carisbrooke Area

2022

Ester’s F t Health Clinic

Professional foot health treatments in your home.

cut and file

of Corns and Callus

Foot Care

massage

Contact Ester on 07789750307 or esterchunter@gmail.com

Offering 20 years of healthcare experience

ESTER CAMPBELL-HUNTER

BSc. DipCFHP, MPSPract ITEC Dip Fully Insured. Member of the Accredited Registry of Foot Health Practitioners

Look after your feet and they’ll look after you…

The foot is a complex part of the human anatomy, and it is important that it is not neglected as it not only keeps us independent, but it is also a major factor in our physical and mental wellbeing.

Ester Campbell-Hunter moved to the Island 3 years ago and with her she brought a wealth of knowledge having worked within the NHS for several years both on the hospital ward and within the community. Her most rewarding achievement was working with Marie Curie Cancer Care, and she has also worked within clinics for the over 75s health checks.

She is a qualified Foot Health Practitioner and her business Ester’s Foot Health Clinic is a mobile service and she visits clients across the island for a range of treatments in their own home. She is particularly passionate about diabetic foot care as she understands how important it is for anyone with diabetes to look after their feet. She can offer advice on many areas and can deal with ingrown nails, corns, thickened nails and much more. Ester has gained a degree and is a qualified aromatherapist and reflexologist and offers a great reflexology massage to totally relax and realign your mind and body.

With over 20 years’ experience and as a member of the Accredited Register of Foot Health Practitioner we are very lucky that Ester chose to move to the Island and open a professional foot health clinic.

For more information, please see her main advert or call Ester on 07789750307 or email on esterchunter@gmail.com.

Welcome to the November issue or as I like to refer to it.... the last one before the Christmas issue!!! I feel it’s safe for me to now mention Christmas, especially as the shops already have their shelves packed with decorations and presents for the festive season.

For information on events happening across the island including details of Christmas Fairs please go to our ‘Dates for your Diary’ section on pages 14 and 15. Remember to let us know if you are holding any community events in December and we can help promote them for you.

This month’s front cover is a little different for many reasons, firstly as it was taken by myself on my phone and I’m not normally very good with photos and secondly, you might be wondering where on the Island I took this, but if you look closely you will see that the Isle of Wight is actually in the background as at the time I was visiting Hayling Island. This ideal photo opportunity appeared, and it made me think that although the planets aren’t aligned it’s always good to have your seagulls all lined up... except there is always the one that won’t do as it should.

Firework season is upon us, although in some areas on the Island this strangely seems to be something that happens more than once a year. If you are a pet owner like me, you too probably dread this time of year. Please make sure you have your pets safely indoors as soon as it turns dark in the few days leading up to and after the 5th November. If you are having your own display, please do the right thing and just drop a note through your neighbour’s doors and even share the details on social media so all animals can be secured and kept safe so the stress to our pets is kept to a minimum.

Thank you for picking up and reading this issue and I hope you all have a great November and see you next month when Christmas will be one step closer!!

Debbie

Mailbox No 6, Store it Self Storage Ryde,

1 Nicholson Road, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33

information is correct at time of printing

Diana’s Showcase

Diana’s Showcase is an independent shop in the heart of Newport and its shelves are filled with everything you need to knit, crochet, or sew. The haberdashery section has everything from cotton reel, pins, needles, and ribbons. The wool section is a rainbow of colour, and you can be sure that Diana either has it in stock or can source it for you.

There is a good selection of beginner’s cross-stitch kits, which also make great Christmas presents and a good range of silk threads.

If you are looking for hand-knitted items such as baby and toddler coats, jumpers, ballet cardigan’s, hats, gloves, bed socks and also have a selection of dolls clothes for both baby and teenage dolls then Diana’s Showcase is where you need to go. With Christmas around the corner, you will find some great stocking fillers and novelties which will make perfect gifts along with the range of craft items.

Pop in to 61 Pyle Street, Newport (by Grays Walk and Easy Weigh) and have a look around. Diana encourages you to come and browse at your leisure and to feel free to ask for advice.

News report from Cllr Andrew Garratt for Parkhurst & Hunnyhill

Email: andrew.garratt@iow.gov.uk - Tel: 01983 524623

In my last report, I noted that September’s Isle of Wight Council meeting had been cancelled due to the death of Her Majesty The Queen. This meeting would have considered the draft Island planning strategy. In early October, a specially arranged meeting took place at which councillors voted by 18 to 16 against approving the strategy.

I was one of those who voted against. I very much want a new strategy to protect against indiscriminate development. However, the proposals set out by the Alliance administration set an unreasonable housing target of at least 1,025 homes in the north part of Parkhurst and Hunnyhill ward and would allow development far too close to Parkhurst Forest. I consistently raised for several months with Alliance councillors. I hope that they will now properly take this into account.

The strategy is now in limbo having run out of time for a decision. This is the bizarre outcome of the council’s constitution currently only allowing three hours of debate, with no extension even for important and urgent business! The cabinet member for planning, Cllr Paul Fuller, has indicated that they will now wait till the council meeting in November for a decision. Hopefully the Alliance group won’t wait passively but will actively talk to all councillors about how their concerns can be addressed.

Also in my last report, I commented on the work being done to provide play equipment at the previous play area in Hookes Way. This is a collaboration between Newport & Carisbrooke Community Council and

Sovereign Housing Association, with additional funding from Isle of Wight Council.

Equipment is about to be ordered. Delivery from the manufacturer is likely to take a few weeks, but I’m hoping that installation will be under way before Christmas.

The community council is also looking to lease the green area from Sovereign. If this goes ahead, the community council will consult on other facilities that would make this an attractive place for all local residents to enjoy. Suggestions that have already been made include a small community garden.

Another service provided by the community council is local notice boards with information about local services and activities by community groups. I would like to hear from residents if a noticeboard would be useful in their area and, if so, what locations they would suggest.

Residents may also be aware that the community council has bought a property at 64 High Street. This will be more than a base for the council’s staff, and for its meetings. It will also have space for exhibitions, community meetings, and ‘shoplets’ for small local businesses.

Across the Island, it is noticeable how many roads and pavements have become badly cracked. Among those I’ve reported to Island Roads are Noke Common Road, and Hookes Way footpath.

News report from Cllr Andrew Garratt for Parkhurst & Hunnyhill

It seems likely that the cracks are partly a result of the extreme heat this summer. With climate change a reality, we are likely to get similar heat every year. So, I shall be pressing for the council and Island Roads to ensure repairs can cope with this, and any new surfacing takes this risk into account.

Finally, as ever, please get in touch with issues that I may be able to help with – however ‘big’ or ‘small’. My contact details are above. I’m also on Twitter at @AndrewCWGarratt and am happy to take up issues via tweets or direct messages. You can also follow my work as a councillor through my website at www.andrewgarratt. mycouncillor.org.uk

Carisbrooke

St Thomas of Canterbury Primary School

Friday - 5.30pm & 7pm

Saturday - 8am, 9.30am & 11am Call Kim on 07855 747893

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.

Are you new to the Island, recently retired or just interested in fun, laughter, lunches, walking, outings or something different? Then TG could well be for you and is a great opportunity to meet new friends and like-minded ladies in your area.

We meet monthly and have nine Townswomen’s Guilds at various locations and times across the island

We welcome you to come along to a no obligation meeting, to find out more. A warm and friendly welcome is guaranteed. If you would like to talk to someone before coming along, please ring 01983 759350 and we can chat and even meet with you before you come to a guild.

Newport - Parish Centre, Town Lane, 2nd Monday at 2.00pm Wootton - Methodist Church, Station Rd, 3rd Friday at 2.00pm

Bembridge - Methodist Church Hall, 1st Tuesday at 7.30pm

Freshwater - Methodist Church Hall, 1st Wednesday at 2.00pm

Sandown - Broadway Centre, 3rd Wednesday at 2.00pm

Sandown - Broadway Centre, 2nd Tuesday at 7.00pm

Shanklin - Falcon Cross Hall, 3rd Wednesday at 10.30am

Lake - Lions Community Centre, 2nd Thursday at 10.30am

Ventnor - St Catherine’s Church, 3rd Wednesday at 2.15pm

From joy’s humble crumble kitchen

Now that autumn is with us there is nothing more comforting than a bowl of hot home-made soup. Here are a few suggestions to get you started. Serve with croutons, naan, crusty bread, flatbreads, a sprinkle of grated cheese, even a toasted cheese sandwich will add another level of indulgence! Use what you need and then freeze the rest for another day.

ROOT VEGETABLE SOUP serves 4

2 tbsp olive oil

800g/ 1lb 12oz of mixed root vegetables - any kind - peeled and cut into even smallish chunks

2 garlic cloves - crushed 2 chicken or veg. stock cubes. Fry the onions until soft - add the vegetable chunks - stir fry for 5 minutes.

Crumble the stock cubes and add 1 litre/1¾ pints of water to the pan - simmer for 20 minutes. Blitz until smooth, season.

LIGHTLY CURRIED CARROT SOUP

1 tbsp olive oil + 1 tbsp butter

serves 6

2 onions - chopped and 2 garlic cloves - crushed

500g /1lb 2oz carrots - peeled and chopped into small pieces

300ml/half pint chicken or veg stock

1 tsp ground cumin

1 tsp curry powder (m) thyme and seasoning.

Melt the butter - add the oil and gently sweat the onions, carrots and garlic until softened (5-6 minutes) - season.

Add the cumin and curry powder - cook for a further 2 minutes

Add the stock, thyme - Add ½ litre/1 pint water - bring to boil. Simmer for 20 - 25 minutes. Take off heat. Blitz until smooth.

LENTIL & BACON SOUP Serves 6

a little olive oil

3 - 4 good rashers of smoked back bacon - finely chop

1 red pepper and 1 onion - finely chopped

1 medium sweet potato, peeled and finely chopped

1 garlic clove - crushed

1 chicken/veg. stock pot

1½ ltr/ 2½ pt water 200g/7oz red lentils or use 2 tins lentils - well drained a little thyme and seasoning. Fry the bacon, onion, red pepper, sweet potato and garlic on a low heat until softened. Add the red lentils or the drained lentils to the pan. Pour in the stock, thyme and seasoning. Return to boil - simmer for 15 - 20 minutes. Either serve the soup with ‘bits’ or blitz if preferred.

CAULIFLOWER SOUP serves 4

1 tbsp. olive oil

1 onion - finely chopped

garlic clove - finely chopped

tsp. ground cumin

tsp. ground coriander

800g/ 1¾ quarters lb. cauliflower florets, roughly chopped

1 ltr./1¾ pints chicken or veg. stock 150ml/5fl. oz creme fraiche or cream. Fry the onion and garlic gently for 2-3 minutes. Add the cumin and coriander and stir fry together for a further 1-2 minutes. Add the cauliflower and chicken stock. Bring to boil then simmer for 8-12 minutes until cauliflower is tender. Take the pan off heat. Blitz until smooth. Add the cream - season. Return to pan and gently heat through.

houseproud

A lz he im e r C a fé IOW

Tel: 01983 220200

Email: info@alzheimercafeiow. org. uk Website: www. alzheimercafeiow. org. uk

East Cowes Alzheimer Café

East Cowes Town Hall York Avenue, East Cowes, PO32 6RU

First Tuesday of the month

2pm 4pm

Ryde Alzheimer Café

All Saints’ Church Hall Queens’s Road, Ryde, PO33 3AF

First Friday of the month

Totland Alzheimer CaféCowes Alzheimer Café

Football Club, Reynolds Close off Park Road, Cowes PO31 7NT Second Wednesday of the month

Sandown Alzheimer Café

The Broadway Centre 1 Broadway, Sandown PO36 9GG Fourth Wednesday of the month

2pm 4pm

St Saviours Holy Family Centre

If you are worried or concerned about memory loss, please come along to an Alzheimers Café for information and informal education about memory loss and dementia. You do not need to have a diagnosis to attend, everyone with an interest in dementia or memory loss is welcome. 2pm 4pm

11am 1pm 2pm 4pm

Weston Lane, Totland PO39 0HE Third Wednesday of the month

Newport Methodist Church Quay Street, Newport, PO30 5BA

Last Wednesday of the month

Newport Alzheimer Café 6pm 8pm

Newcomers very welcome No booking required

An Alzheimer Café is a meeting place giving informal education about dementia, guidance and signposting to other services. We welcome people with dementia, their families, carers, professionals and anyone with an interest in dementia.

Charity Number CIO 1171437

It’s a Café with a difference!

Alzheimer Café IOW is an Isle of Wight charity that is a lifeline for people with dementia, their carers, family and friends. Alzheimer Café IOW started in 2009 and has 6 cafés across the island but is not like your conventional café as they have the role of providing accurate and appropriate information relating to dementia in a stress-free environment.

Anybody can go along to these ‘meet ups’ so I went to the East Cowes Alzheimer Café to find out what it’s all about. As I walked through the doors I was met with a smile and friendly greeting from the volunteers, which immediately put me at ease. I explained that I had come along just to find out more about it all, and this wasn’t questioned, and I was offered a seat. It was lovely to watch the interaction between visitors and volunteers – name tags were given, and tea and coffee was served.

All the cafes are overseen by different co-ordinators, and I met Lizzie and Barry the coordinators of this particular café. I also met with Anna Roberts (Charity Liaison Officer) and Floss (volunteer at East Cowes, Cowes & Newport), who made sure everyone was catered for, tea and coffee wise. All the café’s follow a rolling programme which enables them to touch on key topics throughout the year as there is no ‘one-size fits all’ and Barry who gave this month’s presentation on ‘Why Life Stores Matter’, is co-ordinator for the Dementia Awareness Partnership IW, the training arm of the Alzheimer Café IOW.

All the café’s use the same format and language while still having their own distinctive characteristics and they all work with various agencies across the island including Memory Service and Carers IW to ensure the best support is available for everyone.

The whole dementia area is new to me and I was shocked at some of the statistics I found out especially that a probable diagnosis of dementia requires confirmation from a Memory Service psychiatrist before accessing government support, however the IW Trust has been unable to appoint replacements for many months and the number of referrals have been averaging 60+ per month with a waiting time in excess of 12 months and growing and this is why the Alzheimers Café is such an important part of the community offering informal dementia education and information and signposting to other services.

Alzheimer Cafés welcome anyone who is worried about their memory, has a diagnosis of dementia, or would like to find out more about dementia. It is clear that families come to an Alzheimer Café because they are seeking support and looking for answers and for many, diagnosis is a mixed blessing… An illness is given a probable diagnosis, but no onward care is currently available. The future isn’t just uncertain it’s fearful!

There are currently 2,655 people over the age of 65 living with dementia on the Island and this number is likely to increase to 3,920 by 2030 – Isle of Wight Dementia Strategy.

You can find details of all the Alzheimer Cafés on the opposite page.

from

-

& Gunville Mobile -

Email - joe.lever@iow.gov.uk Facebook - @CllrJoeLever

November incoming (where has 2022 gone?!)…

At the time of writing this, notice had been given about the latest planning applications behind Forest Hills/Arthur Moody Drive (Gunville) coming into planning committee on the 25th October. I’ve been in conversation with local residents about these applications and we share concerns that the revised applications still don’t alleviate the issues we saw with the previous applications. I’ll be speaking at the planning committee on the 25th and by the time this update goes out we will know the outcome. I’m hoping the planning committee is consistent in their reasoning and decision making which would see these applications refused.

Recently I’ve had residents contacting me asking about the council-owned Thompson House site. The Isle of Wight Council recently sent out for expressions of interest and the deadline closed in early October. At the time of writing this update, the IWC were reviewing these EOI and coming to a decision. I’m not part of the selection process or privy to the list of EOI, however, after speaking to residents I have expressed the view to council leadership that proposals that make use of the existing building and minimise impact on (or preferably enhance) the surrounding environment are preferable. I await further information on this matter but just to note that - it’s my understanding - any accepted EOI will then need to proceed through the usual planning processes/ applications depending on the proposed site use.

Now for some clarification on what I believe to be poor communication from government and national media. For context, I’ve spoken

to Islanders recently who were confused regarding the announced energy price cap. They had - understandably - misunderstood the communicated £2,500 cap figure as a total bill maximum rather than what it actually is, which is a cap on the unit rate and standing charge. Meaning, if you use more, you’ll still pay more. If you want a clearer explanation on energy-related announcements, Martin Lewis always gives good guidance, and the Footprint Trust may have some good tips.

(My apologies if this information is irrelevant at the time of reading. I was reluctant to write anything regarding national government announcements as, well… they’re changing day-to-day at the moment, but this seemed a particularly important point to hit home, as we move into winter.)

And on that energy note, here’s a reminder of some local organisations that may be able to help if you run into difficulty, even if just offering advice and information for your own personal situation:

‘IsleFindIt’ by Citizens Advice www.islefindit.org.uk

An online directory for Island-based advice, services and events. For those that aren’t online, Citizens Advice runs a free advice line on 0800 144 8848.

Help Through Crisis 01983 823959

A limited fund to provide immediate emergency help with food, gas and electricity. Bear in mind, this can only be offered to those in the most need and as a last resort.

Footprint Trust 01983 822282 or info@footprint-trust.co.uk.

As always, if you need to get in touch, please use the contact details at the top of this page.

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dates for your diary

Friday 4th November - Bembridge Fireworks Night from 6.30pm – 8.30pm at Steyne Park. This year we have stalls in the hall, food stalls outside, DJ and the bar will be open all night with fireworks at 7:30pm. Please don’t bring any sparklers or fireworks into Steyne Park on the night and remember the car park will be closed and there will be ‘no waiting’ cones along Steyne Road. It’s free entry but we are asking if everyone would be kind enough to make a donation on the night, all monies raised will go to the BYCC and this great village event.

Friday mornings from 4th November to 2nd December - Tommy’s Tree Adventurers. Weekly Forest School sessions in Carisbrooke for pre-school children accompanied by a parent/carer. Bring your child along for a morning of fun and exploration, including woodland crafts, games, trails, campfire cooking and lots more. For more information or to book a place (trial session £5), contact Julia at pineconeslearning@gmail.com.

Saturday 5th November – Yarmouth

Fireworks are back! Join us in the town square from 6pm, where there will be food and drink outlets open. A procession will then lead to the lit beacon and display. Display to start approx. 7pm.

Saturday 5th November – Vectis Radio

Coffee Morning is from 10am to midday in the studio at the Riverside Centre. Maybe you would like to join our team of volunteers, whether that is presenting, marketing, collating news or something else. Come and have a general chat. We will have tea and coffee for you, and some biscuits, plus we have been promised homemade cakes. All we ask is for a donation in the bucket to help us keep going. Or we have a card machine if you have no cash.

19th November – 23rd December – I Love Wight Artisan Christmas Pop-Up Shop and Mini Market at The Garlic Farm, Mersley Lane, Newchuch from 9.30 – 4.30pm. Local handmade products from Isle of Wight artisans along with some great musicians and performers.

Saturday 19th November – Day of Christmas from 9am – 6pm in Newport Town Centre and The Quay. This year, the event organised by NCCC alongside Market Days CIC and SKATES promises to be even bigger than last year, which was one of the busiest days in Newport’s history. The Quay will host an ice rink as well as inflatable assault course and snow globe (weather permitting), a circus workshop and food stalls. A bustling Christmas market will bring festive sights and smells to St Thomas’s Square once again this year. Characters including the Grinch, will be walking around throughout the day and local school and community choirs will be performing. A large stage will be in St James’s Square providing a variety of entertainment throughout the day until 5.45pm when a magical circus-themed show ‘The Greatest Snowman’ will switch on the town’s Christmas lights!

Sunday 20th November - IW Donkey Sanctuary Winter Market. Again, we will have plenty of stalls to look round with a wide variety of products. There will be live music on the day to get you into the festive spirit, as well as a festive menu in Grazers Café! Santa will also be making a special visit to see our donkeys and also all of our visitors. This year our on-site car park is restricted to disabled badge holders only. Instead of general parking being on site, we are going to have a number of park and ride

over the page

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

EVENTS AT LORD LOUIS LIBRARY dates for your diary

services available. There will be a park and ride service from The Old Smithy in Godshill, The Free School in Ventnor, and St. Francis school across the road in Ventnor as well. These will have regular services, and both are under 10 minutes from us.

Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th November

– The Wildheart Trust Christmas Market from 10am – 4pm. We have lined up a beautiful, bespoke collection of stalls selling perfect gifts and decorations from local Isle of Wight designer makers and artists. With Father Christmas launching his wonderland grotto plus carols, festive food and mulled wine, the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary is the perfect place to kick off your Christmas shopping and find that perfect gift. It is a wonderful weekend to meet our animals and start feeling those first flutters of Christmas magic. Normal admission prices have been held for the weekend so either book ahead or turn up on the day.

Saturday 26th and Sunday 27th NovemberThe Northwood House Christmas Fair from 10am – 4pm. Featuring a selection of over 40 of the best Island gift exhibitors in art, craft and produce, it’s the perfect inspiration for unique Christmas present buying for those seeking something unique and original for their friends and loved ones! Free entry to Fair. Children can have a meet and greet with Father Christmas in the snow cave and write him a letter to give to him in person, with a chance for parents to take photos. There will also be the return of Santa Paws…the father Christmas for dogs, who’ll be delighted to wish your four-legged friends a Merry Christmas and have a photo for a charitable donation to Northwood House. This will take place in a marquee in the rotunda car park.

Friends of Lord Louis Library Book Sale – Saturday 5th 9am-4pm

Tea and Chat for the Over 60s - Monday 14th and 28th 10.30am-12pm.

Dying Matters Café – Tuesday 1st 1011.30am

People’s Library – Rent a human book or just come for a chat – Monday 14th 10am12pm Knit and Natter - Thursday 3rd at 10am12pm & Thursday 17th at 2-4pm

Reading Group – Thursday 3rd 5.15pm

Jane Austen Reading Group – Thursday 24th 3-4pm

Digital Support Sessions with Age UK IW, drop in Thursday 10th & 24th at 10.3012.00pm

PA drop in – Find out about becoming a personal assistant Friday 18th 10am-12pm

Children

Rhymetime - Every Friday 10am and 11am Lego Club (age 5+) - Tuesday 1st & 15th at 3.30-4.30pm

Duplo Group for toddlers - Every Tuesday at 10.30-11.30am

Home Ed Lego Club (age 5+) – Monday 14th 10.30-11.30am

Dungeons and Dragons – for children aged 10-15, we have a few spaces at the group that meets 9-10.30am every Saturday. Ask at the library if you are interested.

Please note that some of these events may be subject to change due to the proposed building works due to take place at the library.

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

Please help support this great cause to get filled shoe boxes to the Ukrainian Soldiers.

Nigel Watson from Sandown is going to Ukraine before Christmas and he will deliver shoe boxes to Ukrainian Soldiers, reminding them that we have not forgotten them.

Gifts can be left at All Saint Church Gurnard, Tuttons Hill, Gurnard, Cowes PO31 8JA between 10:30AM - 4PM or give to a parishioner.

Closing date 25 November 22.

For more information ring Joan on 298643

New thick socks, T shirts, vests [possibly thermal], new underpants, neck warmers, scarves, warm pull-on hats, balaclavas and men’s thick gloves.

ALL CLOTHING ITEMS TO BE DARK COLOURS PLEASE – BLACK, NAVY, BOTTLE GREEN

Paracetamol, throat sweets, plasters/bandage + safety pins, toothbrush/paste, shaving foam, razors and deodorant.

Playing cards/games, chewing gum, sweets/chocolate, biscuits/small cakes, nuts/dried apricots/tropical mix/nibble, pot noodles, savoury biscuits and a Christmas card.

If you can spare £2 which will help towards transport costs.

on

Island’s largest

of

Street, Newport. (behind

instore at 3-5

at

Wight Photographic Group

A friendly

a

Revive Newport and the Churches in the Parish of

and Carisbrooke (church halls) are working together to create ‘Heat Hubs’ - warm spaces to go to keep warm in the colder months, to relax and chat, with cheap or free refreshments! Come along to a warm space in the week, and to try somewhere new and meet

Mondays - St Mary’s hall, Carisbrooke, 10am – 12.30pm (Mondays start from 7th

Wednesdays - St Mary’s hall, Carisbrooke, Parson’s Pantry, 10am -12.30pm

Fridays - The Parish Centre, Town Lane, Newport (opposite Subway), 10am – 12.30pm

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One Careful Owner

It’s been that time of year where I pack away spring and summer clothes and bring out my autumn and winter wardrobe. I like having a clear out at the same time and then I donate to local charities either via the shops or recycling bins in the area. All the clothes I donate are clean and in good condition and have basically had one careful owner (me).

I recently read an article about the severe environmental impacts of the fashion industry and what is termed as ‘fast fashion’ and according to the UN Environment Programme, the fast fashion industry is the second-biggest consumer of water and is responsible for 8-10% of global carbon emissions – more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined. The term refers to ‘cheaply produced and priced garments that copy the latest catwalk styles and get pumped quickly through stores in order to maximise on current trends.

The fast fashion model is so-called because it involves the rapid design, production, distribution, and marketing of clothing, which means that retailers are able to pull large quantities of greater product variety and allow consumers to get more fashion and product differentiation at a low price.

This information alone was enough to get me thinking and then I thought about how much money I spend on new clothes, and like everyone I should be looking to save money. It was time to be a recycling consumer rather than just a donator!!!

In my hunt for some pre-loved clothes, I have been visiting the many different charity shops on the island. I like the ones set up like a boutique, all the dresses together in size order, the tops all neatly in one section and coats kept together. I am not a rummager by nature, but I know some people enjoy it. I like to go to my size and see what is available and that’s me done. I have found some great items, dresses for £3 or £4 pounds, I got a new skirt for £7 which still had the original tag on at £34.99. I picked myself up a lovely Gisela Graham bag for £4.99 and last week I got myself a Per Una casual winter jacket for £4.99 saving myself at least £50. But… and I have saved the best to last, I have been wanting a faux fur gilet for a while, what I was looking for was quite specific and I have been searching online. I found one but it was £39.99, and I had held off buying it and now you probably won’t believe this, but this is a true story. I popped into my favourite charity shop and there like a shining beacon was the gilet of my dreams… I went from 0 - 60 in 2.1 seconds to get my hands on it and lo and behold it was the perfect fit and it only cost me £4.49.

What I do love about shopping like this is if you buy something for a couple of pounds and you get it home and it doesn’t look quite right you can just donate it again as you know the money has gone to a good cause. We all love a bargain and for me this is the perfect way to make a difference to the world we live in while at the same time looking forward to some new outfits.

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