Your Local Community Magazine
April 2021
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Welcome to the April issue of Island Magazines and thank you for picking up a copy. The year is slowly moving ahead and at the time of writing this we are following a Government roadmap which will gradually bring us out of ‘lockdown’ and let’s hope in the months to come we can start seeing a return to normal life precovid. Easter is early this year with Good Friday on the second of April and Easter Sunday on the fourth. I hope we are lucky weather wise and have the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors accompanied with a good dose of sunshine. It might even be a chance for either the first picnic or barbecue of the year. This is also a great time to relax and get stuck into our puzzle section on pages 10 and 11. The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust have launched a new ‘Waste of Space’ public appeal and need your help to turn unloved spaces in our towns and cities into vital natural space for people and wildlife. See page 13 for more information. As usual you will find this issue packed with news and information and we have a special middle pull out section for candidates standing in the upcoming election. I hope you have a great Easter and I look forward to catching up with you again next month.
Debbie
text or call Island Magazines on 07880 587 931 islandmagazines@gmail.com www.islandmagazines.co.uk facebook.com/islandmagazines twitter.com/islandmagazines Island Magazines Mailbox No 4, Unit B1 Whitecross Business Centre Whitecross Lane Shanklin, IOW, PO37 7EJ
Contact Lui Tel: 520522 Mob: 07795 363 534 www.primotechnical.co.uk primotechnical@gmail.com
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News Report from Cllr Wayne Whittle. Tel 07768 118766 Twitter @RydeAbide E wayne.whittle@iow.gov.uk Environmental Health has confirmed Avian Flu is still an issue on Canoe Lake since tests were carried out on the last swan that had died on the 17th February 2021. Therefore, the protection fencing around the lake has been recommended to remain in place until the end of March when DEFRA will review their position again. The Southern Water sewer repairs are ongoing and could take months to complete, the broken kerb stones and pavement on Canoe Lake Road have now been repaired and the road is now one way again and open.
the building into community ownership and purpose. Contractors moved the sand in early March that had once again built up and blocked access to and from Ryde Harbour. I have been advised that before this year’s summer season begins the sand will be moved from the Harbour beach and taken to East Appley or the Western beach and future MMO permissions are being sought to enable plans for annul permanent removal of Sand going forward from 2022 and beyond as a way to manage the continual problems caused by the ever increasing and blowing sand.
I was pleased to hear the good news that Historic England have agreed to fund Lastly I would like to thank all residents and the costs of emergency works to repair groups that have worked with me over the the malicious damage inflicted on Ryde last 20 years on Ryde Town Council and its Theatre. I voted in favour of saving the various badges and also those who worked Theatre along with fellow Ryde Town with me as Isle of Wight County Councillor Councillors via leasing the property, for the last 12, as I’m now stepping down since then we have had Hampshire and retiring from public service. County Council undertake a survey and Promoted by Wayne Whittle, Hunters Way, Binstead estimation of the damage and await their restoration and build costs, once in, further Hill, Ryde PO33 3RP improvement works can begin including “An excellent team the installation of a offering an security system to invaluable service” prevent any further break-ins. NEW! Book online www.mobilevetsurgery.co.uk Once this is carried out RTC can then insure the building and enter a three-year lease for the premises with hope of securing further funding to ultimately purchase and bring 4
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Giving your feet the care and attention they deserve Pain in your feet or lower limbs will not only cause a considerable amount of discomfort it can lead on to serious problems and in the long-term affect both your mental and physical health. Our feet take a pounding every day, yet they can often be neglected and problems can emerge. Corns, calluses, ingrowing toenails, athletes foot and fungus are just a few of the problems can that occur. If you suffer from diabetes it is important that you receive regular check-ups as an essential aspect of diabetes care. Although this all may sound doom and gloom, the good news is that local Podiatrist and Chiropodist Carolyn Wright can help with all aspects of foot health and care. Carolyn has over 34 years of experience and is registered with the Health Professions Council (HPC). Carolyn provides home visits which makes it a relaxing and comfortable experience. Full PPE is always worn and all Covid regulations are followed. She believes in taking the stress and worry away from all her clients and all she asks is that you sit back and relax whilst she takes care of your foot health needs. If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment call Carolyn on 01983 884467 or 07815 922160 and see her main advert.
Mrs C. A. Wright Podiatrist/Chiropodist FSSCh Dip. Pod. Med. FBChA FRIPH
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Mind the Gap Re-build feelings of self-worth and get back your confidence. The new ‘Mind the Gap’ courses via Zoom begin on the 27th April for women and 28th April for men at 10am. Their Zoom based sessions have been very successful and the FREE course is able to create and deliver coaching, mentoring and support to women and men who are suffering from abuse in any form. The 10-week course is for everyone to learn how to rebuild their confidence and move forward positively in their lives. The sessions help build support networks, learn new skills and increase self-belief. They help individuals and groups to gain the courage and confidence to stand up against oppression, control, abuse etc. If you would like to book a place on an April course email hello@breakthecycle.org.uk. www.breakthecycle.org.uk
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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.
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MEET THE CANDIDATES Local elections are taking place on Thursday 6th May. Although Island Magazines has no political agenda, we thought it only fair to make space available to all candidates to advertise their campaigns (should they wish to). Not all candidates took up the offer but for those who did we have produced a handy section for you to pull out and keep.
If you are worried about leaving home to attend the polling station there is still time to apply for a postal vote. You have until 5pm on Tuesday 20th April to apply. Either call 01983 823380 or email electoral.services@iow.gov.uk or go online and download, print, and fill out a postal vote application form at www.iow.gov. uk/Council/OtherServices/ElectoralRegistration/Postal-Votes. Once you have completed the form and signed it, you need to send it to Electoral Services, County Hall, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1UD.
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Vote Charles Chapman as your Parish Councillor for Ryde Monktonmead on the 6th May. PUTTING PEOPLE BEFORE POLITICS You will be asking “why vote for Charles Chapman?” Answer: I believe that I have shown residents of Ryde that I care for our town and its future from the very young to the very old. I have lived and worked here, with my family, for over forty years. The way forward for Ryde is through its Parish Council. The Government has devolved great responsibility, but no money to this group. We have to get out and search for funding to protect our town, our jobs, our schools and our future. I have worked for Ryde for over thirty years and will continue to work with organisations and groups raising funding. We need to rebuild the damage done by a lockdown. We need new furniture and fittings for the seafront, our children's paddling pool and the lake urgently require revamping. Saving our heritage for future generations and as a continued tourist destination. After the rest of the world ‘opens up’. We need to ensure long-term gains not short-term fixes. We need money for our Victorian heritage: Buildings like the Town Hall, Vectis Hall, St. Thomas, seafront attractions, walks and more.
Every Vote Counts
I am passionate to get the ‘best deal’ for Ryde. Affordable housing for locals, not second home, schools which meet the needs of our children, tourist destinations which are interesting and leave tourists wanting more. Plus, vibrant local shops employing local people
The views and opinions expressed by candidates and their parties are their own and do not reflect the views of the Editor or Island Magazines.
ALL THIS NEEDS TIME and COMMITMENT. THIS I PROMISE IF I GET ELECTED Promoted by Charles Chapman, 40 Newport Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 2QB
W O R K I N G TO G E T H E R F O R T H E RYDE AND WOOTTON BRIDGE AREA BINSTEAD & FISHBOURNE
HAYLANDS & SWANMORE
RYDE APPLEY & ELMFIELD
RYDE MONKTONMEAD
Ed Hopper
Vanessa Churchman
Tiarnan Finney
Rhys Wright
RYDE NORTH WEST
RYDE WEST
WOOTTON BRIDGE
Steve Sheridan
Lou Temel
Barry Abraham
Isle of Wight Council elections Thursday 6th May
Promoted by David Pugh of the Isle of Wight Conservative Association, 58 The Mall, Carisbrooke Road, Newport, PO30 1BW on behalf of the candidates named above for the Isle of Wight Council elections on Thursday 6th May, all at the above address.
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Last month’s Kriss Kross answer
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News Report from Wootton Bridge Councillor Barry Abraham 07800736557 | Email:- barry.abraham@iow.gov.uk At last, there seems to be some positive news on the pandemic, with half the adult population being vaccinated and the rates of infection coming down, there does seem to be reasons to be optimistic. My wife and I have now had our first AstraZeneca vaccinations. We did suffer minor symptoms for a couple of days, but I would rather that than the full blown Covid-19 which has caused such heart break for some families. Hopefully with the gentle roll back of lockdown there will not be a need to go into full reverse again. It is good to see the schools re-open again and I really feel for the young people whose schooling has been so adversely affected, especially those who should have sat exams last year and this. It can only be hoped that with all the hard work they have put in, they will get the results they rightly deserve. Last month I mentioned it has been reported that litter had been left on Lushington Hill and by the Crematorium roundabout. Well, some kind soul decided that Firestone Copse Road was looking too clean and dumped some rubbish in one of our field’s gateways. Unfortunately, there was nothing to indicate who the individual was and as it is on private land, we had to clear it up. We have in the past had furniture and old televisions left. When you consider how close they are to the tip, you have to wonder why they do it. The council does get criticised for charging commercial businesses to use the refuse sites but there is a reason everything that goes into landfill is taxed including domestic waste with what is known as Landfill Tax. It
was brought in about 1996. Councils have to pay it, which is why there is so much effort put in to make everyone recycle as much as possible and I have to say I am a great supporter of recycling. If you have to have some business to move waste to the tip, make sure they are licenced to carry waste and insist they give you a waste transfer notice and do keep hold of it, it does prove you have disposed of waste correctly. I was alerted to plants being cut on the recreation ground in the middle of March. The plants were due to be pruned back this year through January and February, they should not have been attacked with a flair cutter especially after the first of March which is seen as the start of the nesting season. Residents were quite rightly angry that such action could happen, unfortunately I found out too late. I have spoken to council officers to find out what happened, and I am waiting for some answers. The council as custodians of such places as the recreation ground should not allow things like this to happen. On the brighter side the council with Island Roads have decided on a plan to manage the grass verges with nature at the centre of the plan which will leave the majority of the verge uncut, and it is hoped wildflowers will take over and become home to mini beasts. Other counties have taken this approach which has become popular with residents. Clearly some parts of verges will be trimmed for safety reasons. Promoted by Barry Abraham, Firestone House, Kite Hill Farm, Wootton Bridge, Isle of Wight, PO33 4LE.
Waste of Space Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust launch public appeal to help turn unloved spaces in our towns and cities into vital natural space for people and wildlife. Natural and wild places have provided a lifeline for people across the Isle of Wight and Hampshire over the past year, providing essential outside space to relax, exercise, play and spend time with friends and family. Access to these wild spaces and connection to nature is known to benefit people’s physical and mental health, leading to reductions in depression, anxiety and obesity and strengthening people’s immune systems. However, the pandemic has highlighted vast inequalities in access to green and natural spaces. One in eight households have no garden and rely entirely on public open spaces, particularly in urban areas. In a survey conducted by the Trust in June 2020, over 96% of people said that nature played an important role in relieving stress during lockdown and expressed a need for more natural space in our towns and cities. Urban wild spaces create healthier communities, reduce loneliness and social isolation and provide safe places for children to play. They also provide cleaner air, combat climate change, help reduce flooding and act as havens for wildlife as part of a county-wide Nature Recovery Network. The Trust is asking local people to map the ‘wasted space’ in their communities, the unloved scraps of land around our houses and streets that could, and should, do much more for people and nature. This could include tall buildings with the potential to have swift boxes on, paved over surfaces which could be filled with colourful planters or simply a space which needs a litter pick and a place to sit to transform it. The Trust want local people to help find creative ways to make space for nature within our towns and cities. Debbie Tann, CEO of Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, says: “Wildlife has been squeezed into smaller and smaller spaces just at the time when people need nature more than ever for their health and wellbeing. Our Wilder 2030 campaign is calling for 30% of land and sea to be restored for nature by 2030, and for people to join us in taking action for wildlife. This must be the decade of nature’s recovery and rewilding our lives. Any area, no matter how small, will contribute to a Nature Recovery Network, and help rewild where we live. This will help transform towns and cities into places where wildlife can thrive and people are happier and healthier.” “Our Wilder Communities Officers, will provide support and advice, including how to talk to your local council, ways to identify what wildlife might already be living in your community, and how to make a space that benefits people and wildlife. We’ll also be engaging with local councils and landowners to get their support so they can work together with communities to make changes which create better urban spaces for everyone.” Together we can rewild where we live. Record your Waste of Space at www.hiwwt.org.uk/waste-space
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News Report from Councillor Charles Chapman for Ryde South Email:- Charles.Chapman@iow.gov.uk | Mobile number 07970 009608 My ‘Standing’ as a Councillor some thirty years ago, was a decision that I took very seriously. After living in many different areas of the island, and then over forty years in Ryde town centre was the start of my ‘love affair’ with Ryde. It’s Victorian heritage and the grandeur of its seafront with the beauty of its sands and walkways which are so often under threat from developers and our county councillors, made me feel as though I ‘could make a difference’. I take ‘walking my Ward’ very seriously. Even during this pandemic, it’s been a part of my exercise regime which has enabled me to respect the letter of the Law whilst still doing my job. I try to listen to what my Ward tell me and use my experience to ensure that Ryde gets the best deal that we can possibly get to ensure its future as a vibrant small town, local employer and progressive tourist destination. St Thomas’ Church has successfully been purchased for community use. Scaffolding is up, as many of you will have seen, and external repairs underway. This is being done by grant aid including Heritage England, at no cost to precious local funding, which can now be used elsewhere. St. Thomas is part of Ryde’s Victorian heritage and includes many artefacts and unique stained-glass windows. My point being, that it is up to all Ryde residents, to ‘show off ’ the many facets of Ryde, it’s businesses, entertainment and places of interest. Investing in our heritage for example, Vectis Hall in Cross Street, was the first Free School in Ryde, is now owned by us, Ryde residents, and it now has a future. Ryde Town Hall in Lind Street, is a magnificent grade II listed building and we 14
are going forward with Heritage Funding, which will enable the Town and Parish Council to get further funding for this building. Ryde is not just about the preservation of existing sites, it’s more than that. It’s about building a future for us all. Keeping greedy developers out! We might need to keep one foot in the past, but we also need to build a modern and vibrant future. The extension of WightFibre into our homes providing better broadband and faster connection ensures that Ryde will be able to provide for those who will continue to ‘work from home’, once the pandemic has passed. Working from home is now a permanent fixture in our lives thus reliable, uninterrupted internet with instant downloads is a necessity and no longer just desirable. Ryde is looking to the future whilst respecting the past. Improvement to our local railway, although in my opinion not going far enough, will bring further investment and local jobs. Just a last footnote: fly tipping is of major concern at present, littering doesn’t help our image. I am doing all that I can to get it cleared up and a thank you to those who have promptly reported it. Car parking, in the Ward, especially cars being driven the wrong way up one-way streets is dangerous. It might seem amusing, but the problem is that it will lead to serious accidents. Parking Wardens have been asked to be alert to the situation. Hoping you all have a good Easter and take care to keep social distancing and wear your mask where necessary. Keep safe! Promoted by Charles Chapman, 40 Newport Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 2QB
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WELCOME BACK - WE HAVE MISSED YOU As we write this the ‘road map’ out of lock down means that many businesses can get back open on April 12th. We cannot tell you how much our small shops and services are looking forward to opening their doors once again. What a long 12 months it’s been, and we truly hope that this is the beginning of the end of this turbulent period. In Ryde we are so lucky to have dedicated business owners, showing such determination, resilience and a real commitment to the town. During April we will be welcoming a number of brand-new businesses and seeing some of our established shops expanding. We believe this shows just how great Ryde is as a town for shopping and leisure time. We couldn’t be prouder to be part of it. There is however a long way to go, and it will take a collective effort to ensure that everyone can get open and stay open. We ask that people remain mindful of the rules that will help continue to keep everyone safe, respect the business owners who will be having to continue to implement Covid safety, and most of all please use the businesses that are on your doorstep. Long after lockdown, shops, bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues will be attempting to make up for months of lost revenue. We really appreciate you shopping local.
Here’s to much happier, healthier, and prosperous times. Zoe Thompson – Chair: Ryde Business Association Find us on: Facebook @RBAIsleofWight Twitter: @RBASSOCIATION1
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Island Magazines is printed by Beardsalls, 35a Orchard St, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 1JZ