IW Gazette 35

REPORTING ISLAND NEWS

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gazette the isle of wight

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Friday October 2, 2009

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COUNCILLOR ON ICE

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Fire Data Pack

IW Fire Service unveils state of the art technology

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ISLAND RAIDS SERVE A WARNING TO ILLEGALS

See page 13

THREE food outlets on the Island were targeted by the crack UK Border Agency team last night as a warning they intend to stamp out the use of illegal immigrant workers.

Premises in Newport, Shanklin and Ryde were raided by the Agency officers, following intelligence gathered by the their Portsmouthbased Enforcement team.

The Border Agency officers travelled from the mainland late yesterday afternoon to begin their stringent check, and

BY PETER WHITE The Gazette was given exclusive access to the military-style operation that lasted several hours.

The seven-strong team, headed by Trevor Pleydell, the Immigration Officer in charge of operations, visited Dalyan Takeaway in High Street, Shanklin, the Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant, Upper St James Street, Newport and Charcoal Grill, Union Street, Ryde.

The Turkish owner of

Dalyan, along with two Bulgarians were found inside the premises, but not working. They were given advice on the perils of illegal working by foreign nationals, which can carry a fine of up to £10,000.

The manager of the Charcoal Grill, a British citizen of Turkish origin , and two Bulgarians were interviewed at Ryde. One of the Bulgairna was a student, and is allowed to work up to 20 hours a week.

The other claimed he was not working, but was

warned that if he did so illegally then he could face a £1,000 fine.

But there was no call for any action at Ming Garden, where all the workers had the necessary paperwork and passports to carry out their duties. Officer Dave Jones described it as “a pleasing result” in an establishment that had “spotlessly clean kitchens, and good accommodation for employees.”

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BREAKING NEWS

Missing Boy

The police spotter plane was called into help look for a missing 14-year-old boy early this morning Friday after he had an argument with his girlfriend and ran off.

Officers carried out searches in the local Sandown area on foot and with the IW Police spotter plane Boxer, using the thermal imaging camera to try and locate the missing lad.

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

A RACIST IN OUR MIDST?

POLICE are exploring the possibility that a vile racist who has sent dozens of sickening hate mail letters is from the Island. Officers from Hampshire Constabulary have been working with seven other police forces to try to snare the racist letter writer.

Most of the 57 handwritten rants – some containing offensive cartoon like drawings and sexually explicit abuse – were posted from Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight Area. Forensic linguistics specialists who have examined the words and handwriting believe the letter writer is an older woman local to the Isle of Wight.

The writer takes offence at articles printed in the Daily Mail and posts cuttings along with letters in response to stories printed by the national newspaper to some victims.

Letters appear to have been written with the assistance of a ruler or straight edge and some words have been highlighted or coloured in with coloured pencils.

The letters are all pro-English, some are

sexually explicit and many use highly inflammatory racial terms aimed at Asians, black people and Scots. The perpetrator’s targets include schools, GP surgeries, hospitals, mosques, universities, private addresses all over the country and even prime minister Gordon Brown’s

“We have made some progress, but we need the public’s assistance” constituency office in Fife.

The writer regularly expresses anti-BBC views and accuses the corporation of racial bias. The suspect also targets the Scottish Parliament. Commonly used phrases in the letters include ‘English parliament,’ ‘exit Europe, ‘repatriation’ and ‘BBC shutdown.’

Police say the handwriting is in a ‘cursive script – a more elaborate way of forming letters that indicates the

author is probably an older person.

Letters were sent between January 2007 and July 2009 – the last being posted to a private address in Havant.

Hampshire Constabulary launched Operation Heron in January after realising the letters were linked.

They enlisted the National Domestic Extremism Team and Forensic Science Service and DNA tests have linked the letters to one person.

However the suspect is not logged on the National DNA Database.

Detective Inspector Donna Goff said: “So far during the investigation, we have taken hundreds of statements and the Forensic Science Service has examined hundreds of articles for fingerprints and DNA. “We have made some progress, but we need the public’s assistance in helping us find the person responsible for sending this nasty series of racially abusive letters – some of the recipients of which have been left extremely distressed by the content.”

Detective Inspector

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Donna Goff said: “From our inquiries so far, it is reasonable to believe that the letters are the work of one person. The cursive script used in some of the letters indicates that it may be the writing of an older person.

“Repeat phrases used also indicate this, especially reference to ‘working for 50 years’ and regular reference to pensions.

“The Portsmouth and Isle

of Wight postmark covers a huge geographical area in Hampshire, but from the local knowledge displayed in some of the letters, it would be reasonable to believe that the writer is local to Portsmouth or the Isle of Wight.

“We are hoping that someone will recognise the handwriting, or the particularly distinctive style of illustration used in many of the letters.”

If caught and charged with possession of racially inflammatory material, the perpetrator could face up to seven years in jail.

Anyone with information should call Hampshire Constabulary on 101, quoting Operation Heron. Callers from outside Hampshire should call 0845 045 45 45.

Alternatively telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

PARENTS ON BAND ALERT AT FIRST sight the cheap coloured plastic bracelets worn by children seem a bit of innocent fun. But in reality they are a shocking new craze for children as young as seven, and it will horrify parents across the Island. They are ‘shag bands’, which are worn in thousands of primary and secondary school playgrounds in the UK and can be purchased for pennies on any High Street.

The different colours – yellow, orange, purple, pink, red, blue, black and gold show how far the little pupils will ‘go’ if propositioned, from ‘hug a boy’ to ‘go all the way’.

Kids chase each other around schools and, if they break the band off the wearer’s wrist, the wearer has to offer the physical act that corresponds to the colour of the band.

A packet of “shag bands” costs just £1 - but the true cost does not bear thinking about. One 12-year-old girl said: “A yellow band is the best because all it means is you have to hug a boy. An orange means a love bite and purple is a full-on snog.”

We contacted four of the main schools on the Island

for their response and they told us that generally there was not a problem with these bands – yet. One school said there had been a problem around a year ago, but as they had a strict ‘no jewellery’ rule the craze had been nipped in the bud.

IW Council Cabinet member with responsibility for children Dawn Cousins said: “The council is aware of the recent media coverage relating to these wristbands.

“While it is for individual schools to set standards about the wearing of jewellery and wrist bands, we as a local authority do have concerns that underage children may be encouraged to take part in types of sexual activity.

“Schools provide excellent

health and sex education to pupils as part of the curriculum and they actively encourage pupils to speak to teachers if they have any questions regarding sex and health matters.

“The council is working closely with health and other partners through the Isle of Wight Children’s Trust and the Local Children’s Safeguarding Board to promote young people’s safety and wellbeing. The local authority, and no doubt many parents, condemn any active marketing of these wristbands and we would encourage schools to consider this should they have knowledge of the bands being worn by pupils in school.”

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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BORDER AGENCY HITS BACK

THE GAZETTE was last night (Thursday) given a vivid insight into the work being carried out by the UK Border Agency to try to prevent the use of illegal immigrant workers on the Island.

In an operation that was kept a closely guarded secret until just minutes before the Border Agency officers swooped, we were invited to witness three raids that took place on premises in Newport, Shanklin and Ryde.

No arrests were made despite vital information gathered by the Border Agency from police, members of the public and other government departments. But it was still deemed a satisfactory exercise, and a provided stern warning to anyone considering using foreign nationals in employment, or who are already giving them work illegally.

The seven-strong team of officers, travelling in two unmarked vehicles, arrived on the Island from Portsmouth yesterday afternoon, and we were asked to meet up for a pre-raid briefing on the outskirts of Shanklin.

Trevor Pleydell, the Immigration Officer in charge of the visit, explained his role and that of the UK Border Agency team in this exclusive interview. Trevor, 41, and a former car sales manager said: “I’ve been a part of the team for three years, and I joined because I wanted to something with some real meaning to it. If you work for a multi-million pound national company that makes money for someone you’ll never see doesn’t really mean a great deal. In this job

it is all about reducing harm to local communities.

“For every illegal worker that is working, it’s money that is being earned that isn’t being earned by a legal worker. And there is the criminality aspect of it because employers are breaking the law by taking them and any money is not going to go through the books because there is no national insurance number or tax and it will be cash in hand. A lot of the money that is earned is likely to be sent out of the country, and that is just the workers.

“You have the other aspect of illegal employment, where a lot of these people are employed by their own nationalities and it borders on slave labour, because the amount they get paid is very poor and they are living in terrible conditions. They are

being abused by their own nationals. There is a lot of bad stuff that goes on.”

The team checked out premises on the Island, because according to Trevor: “Illegal working occurs not just on big cities and towns but absolutely everywhere, in particular more areas where there is less skilled labour.

Bosses are taking the attitude that if you can pay people £50 a week for example rather than paying the minimum wage then the business is able to run at a lower cost and make products cheaper and undercut people that employ people legally. The Isle of Wight is no different from anywhere else.

“We will come back at anytime in peak season and off season. Wherever there are outlets and places of employment where the level of skilled employment is low, then people are likely to knowingly or unknowingly employ immigration offenders.”

He continued: “We are seen as being the best arrest team in the country which is nice.

We like to get the word out there because a lot of people have no idea who we are.

People do need to be made aware that we are out there doing a job.

“We do have empathy for people that come over to the country to work and improve their lives, however there are some people who come to the country to abuse our hospitality.”

The first visit, to Dalyan Takeaway, Shanklin was

quickly underway. No arrests were made, although two Bulgarians were discovered on the premises. Officer Pleydell said: “We entered the premises under Section 28 CA of the immigration act. We gave the first man some advice with regards to employing foreign nationals. There was the manager and two other people on the premises and accommodation with three beds at the rear that wasn’t particularly nice.”

The next stop was Ming Garden Chinese Restaurant, Newport, which was given a ‘clean bill of health’ after paperwork and passport checks on a number of staff.

Finally the team arrived in Ryde, and discovered the manager, a British citizen of Turkish origin, and two Bulgarians in the Charcoal Grill. One of the Bulgarians was a student and allowed to work 20 hours a week, while the other said he was not working.

The officers warned that any Bulgarian working illegally could be fined up to £1,000, before the team completed their enquires and headed back to the mainland.

Trevor Pleydell added: “We carry out numerous intelligence-led visits to businesses and residential addresses each week across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and we appeal for further information from the public so we can crack down further on those who are flouting the law.”

A tough, Australian-style points based system for managing immigration was recently introduced, ensuring that only those with the skills required by the UK are allowed to work here.

Fingerprint visas are being rolled out across the globe to prevent people coming to the UK on a false identity whilst ID cards for foreign nationals have recently been introduced.

Employers unsure of the steps they need to take to ensure they don’t employ illegal workers can visit www.ukba.homeoffice.gov. uk/employers or call the UK Border Agency helpline on 0300 123 4699. Anyone who suspects people that are working illegally should call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. * The perils of employing illegal workers - see next week’s Gazette.

PICTURES BY JASON KAY

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WHAT THEY DID WITH THE DRUNKEN SAILORS FOUR hours after originally going afloat Ryde Rescue One were about to return to station when they noticed a speedboat acting erratically in the Solent. Whilst in Ryde Harbour earlier that day they had seen the same v e s s e l and crew drinking and soon realised that this was the same, now intoxicated crew, out at sea. One engine had failed and they had no idea how to get back to their home port at Hayling Island.

At the same time another concerned sailor reported the same vessel after he witnessed them departing from Ryde Harbour in an unsafe condition. Once on scene Ryde Rescue One guided them out of the path of an oncoming tanker and it soon became apparent the lifeboat crew required assistance from a higher body.

Solent Coastguard in discussion with QHM tasked the MOD to launch ‘Richard

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

NEW GARDEN FOR FOYER THE ISLAND’S High Sheriff, Gay Edwards, has officially opened the new garden at the Foyer, Ryde.

The new outdoor space has been created by renowned artists Eccleston George, working with Foyer residents. Together they have created a bespoke patio with unique ‘nutshell’ seating which has been handmade using traditional earth casting techniques.

Foyer residents have

Masters’ who assisted Ryde Rescue One in returning the vessel and crew safely to their home port at Hayling Island.

“Drinking and then going out to sea is just as dangerous as drinking then getting behind the wheel of a car, the only difference is that at sea the law isn’t so clear cut,” said Michaela W h i t e C h a i r of Ryde Inshore Rescue. “By going out on a vessel in an intoxicated state not only did they risk their own lives but also those of other vessels that were in the near vicinity.

Drinking to excess when in charge of a vessel at sea is nothing but irresponsible, but at least we made sure they got home safely, it could have been a very different ending.”

Ryde Inshore Rescue are now ahead of their all time record for callouts after four separate taskings on Sunday afternoon.

“Drinking and then going out to sea is just as dangerous as drinking then getting behind the wheel of a car”

additionally researched, sourced and planted the new garden space with a range of herbs, aromatics and seasonal planting to add to the overall ambience and feel of the area. The project has taken a previously unused space in the Foyer grounds and turned it into an inspiring and innovative area to relax.

Rachel Jagger-Thomas, Project Manager at the Foyer, said: “Working with Eccleston George has been a great

opportunity for the residents to explore ideas and get creative, and the results speak for themselves with this fantastic new outdoor space.”

The project has been funded through Medina Housing Association’s annual ‘Prizes for Projects’ scheme, in which residents can apply for money to improve the area they live in. Foyer residents put together a bid for their garden and were awarded £6,000.

POSTIES STRIKE IS ‘LAST LINE OF DEFENCE’

PICKET-line postal workers on the Island claimed their act of defiance against Royal Mail was the ‘last line of defence’ against moves to privatise the institution claim workers.

Around 40 workers took part in the second wave of planned strikes across the UK. Island based posties walked out of the Newport sorting office downing letters on Tuesday for 24 hours.

Striking workers claimed industrial action was the only way to stop the postal service from “going the way of British Rail” – which was privatised in 1994.

Picketers said they feared that if the almost 400-year-old company is privatised its prices could be tripled by ‘profithungry firms’.

“In the past six years 2,500 Post offices have been shut and 40,000 employees laid off,” said one striking postman who only wished to be named as Ben. “Is that modernisation?

Modernisation in today’s world seems to be about getting rid of full-time staff and bringing in agency staff.

“It seems Royal Mail is intent on driving itself into the ground so much that there will be no choice but to privatise it.

“We are not just fighting for our livelihoods but for the customers too.”

A Communication Workers Union Member (CWU), who was among those on the picket line outside Riverway Mail Centre on Tuesday, said: “If the Royal Mail becomes private it will be one more national

institution gone that was once quite good.

“The railways used to be fantastic public service, but now they are private – and look what’s happened since.”

The workers’ comments preceded the end of a national ballot on more industrial action — the results of which are due to become public on October 8.

If the vote favours industrial action a strike will follow within 30 days.

A spokesman for Royal Mail said: “Royal Mail is a company that needs to modernise to survive, however the union, whilst on the face of it is saying it’s up for modernisation, is actually doing pretty much everything it can to frustrate those changes on the ground.

“Modernisation is

taking place on two fronts. One is changing working practices, which quite simply means asking people to work all the hours they are paid to work, working flexibly during those hours to match the workload and using the new modern equipment that we are providing.

“The second part is bringing in the new sorting machinery to handle mail more efficiently.

“Post Offices play an important social and economic role in the communities they serve.

“The network’s losses rose from about £2m a week in 2005 to almost £4m a week in 2007 and were likely to increase further unless action was taken to make the network more sustainable,” he said.

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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HARD WORK PAYS OFF FIRE SPARKS ALERT ON BOAT

THE NEWLY refitted aircraft carrier HMS Ark Royal suffered an engine room fire just hours after setting sail for the first time on Wednesday.

The 20,000-tonne warship sailed out of Portsmouth Naval Base last Friday to embark on two weeks of post-maintenance tests.

But within hours, as it sailed past the Isle of Wight, a sailor had to use a fire extinguisher to put out the blaze.

A Navy spokesman said: “It was a minor fire put out by a sailor with a fire extinguisher and a chemical spray.

“Ark Royal is on post-refit

trials at the moment and the whole point is to iron out teething problems, it is part of the course.

“We do not expect to have fires but sometimes with new equipment there is a risk and the ship’s company was aware of this.

“There was no damage, no injuries and no impact on the ship, which carried on with its programme.”

The ship’s engines were overhauled as part of the seven-month refurbishment work.

The upgrade work, carried out by BVT Surface Fleet, also included painting the

hull with new “Intersleek” paint, which enables it to cut through the sea more quickly.

This reduces fuel and emissions by 9 per cent and also increases the ship’s top speed by two knots to 30 knots.

Other work included new exhaust systems, an updated IT network and improvements to the sewage treatment plants, gearboxes and diesel generators.

Once the sea trials are complete, Ark Royal will resume its role as fleet flagship in the new year, taking over from its sister ship HMS Illustrious.

WIGHT KNUCKLE RIDE

ONLY a day after entering service Wight Ryder II, one of the two brand new catamarans on the Ryde to Portsmouth route, had to be withdrawn from service.

In a nightmare scenario for passengers, a large bang was heard just after the vessel left Portsmouth on the 2.40pm sailing and loud feedback was heard over the public address system.

One of the engines then belched smoke or steam and the ferry had to limp over to Ryde on one engine.

Emergency gangplanks had to be used to disembark the passengers.

At Ryde pier head there was skepticism from a spectator later that day. Linda from East Cowes had just watched

Wight Ryder I docking. “They made a pigs ear of trying to park it,” said Linda. “I’ve not been on it so I have to reserve judgement, but I’ve

just watched the man park it and quite frankly I don’t want to jump up and down like that. I think I’ll stick to the hovercraft in future.”

The naughty, faulty generator

NEWLY qualified Island NHS nurses celebrated getting their nursing badges with a graduation ball at the Holmwood Hotel, Cowes.

The students completed a three year course in Adult Nursing with Southampton University, and will celebrate with a further graduation ceremony in Southampton in December.

The course is 50 per cent theory undertaken at Southampton University

and 50 per cent practical experience, which the students have completed either at St Mary’s or in the community on the Island.

Altogether, 23 graduates, including two sisters received their badges at the ceremony.

Shane Moody, deputy chief nurse said: “This is an exciting time for the newly qualified nurses as they start their journey into employment.

I hope they will continue to work in the NHS and be at the

forefront of driving changes in their vital role as nurses.”

Gemma Cherry, who lives in Ryde, said: “The group have been fantastic, and we have all been so supportive of one another. This has enabled me to get through the past three years of hard work.

“I know many people including myself have said that they are excited about starting the next chapter of their life and starting a career within nursing.”

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

LOOK WHO’S MONEY STOLEN FROM ‘NEW LOOK’ BEEN READING THE GAZETTE HAMPSHIRE Constabulary has confirmed that detectives from IW CID are investigating a burglary reported at the ‘New Look’ shop, in the High St, Ryde.

It’s alleged cash was stolen from the shop sometime between 5.30pm on Monday, September 21 and 8.30am on Tuesday, September 22.

Police conducted house-tohouse enquiries in the local area last week, and investigations continue into other possible lines of enquiry.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Constable Chris Canavan by phoning 101 or 0845 045 4545. Give information to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

COUPLE ATTACKED ON BUS

Send in your pictures of you reading The Gazette and see yourself in print in this spot. Email newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or post it to us at B18, Spithead Business Centre, Newport Road, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 9PH. APOLOGIES to Mrs Virginia Wyatt.

In our feature on Barton Manor’s open day last week her caption should have read, Ginny Wyatt,

not Granny Wyatt. Mrs Wyatt is not a grandmother and we apologise for any inconvenience or embarrassment this may have caused.

POLICE are appealing for witnesses and information, after an alleged unprovoked attack on a couple travelling on a bus near Cowes.

A number one Southern Vectis service left Cowes town centre just after midnight on Saturday morning (September 26).

Among the passengers was a group of approximately eight to ten men, estimated to be aged between their 20s and

40s. They are alleged to have been abusive and offensive to other passengers.

When the bus reached the Northwood Garage area, a man and woman in their 30s from the Newport area, attempted to leave the bus.

It’s alleged that the couple was then assaulted by some of the group of the men.

The two victims received treatment in hospital for non life threatening injuries.

Both were later discharged.

Detective Sergeant David Pilbeam of IW CID said: “It’s alleged this was an unprovoked and vicious assault on a young couple.

Police would like to speak urgently with other passengers who were travelling on this number one Southern Vectis bus, or anybody who may have information about what happened. I would especially

like to encourage anyone from the group of the men, who may not have been directly involved, to come forward.”

People with information are asked to phone Detective Sergeant David Pilbeam of IW CID on 0845 045 4545 or 101.

Information can be given anonymously by phoning Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

THE ONLY school to be given a chance for survival out of all the planned closures under the new two-tier schools re-organisations was Chale Primary School.

In a hurriedly typed leader’s amendment the school was given a further two months to try to forge a federation or to amalgamate with another school.

The decision by the full council followed a passionate speech from local ward member, Cllr William

Wyatt-Millington, although there has also been a strong local opposition group lobbying on behalf of the school.

The marathon six-hour meeting on Wednesday evening, which finished past midnight, saw councillors agree the biggest schools shake up on the Island since middle schools were introduced in the early 70s.

Primary schools will now take pupils to the age of eleven when they will move straight to secondary school, with no middle schools remaining on the Island.

Following a bid for new ‘providers’, two of the Island’s five secondary schools, Ryde High and Sandown

High, will become academies run by the Essex-based Academies Enterprise Trust. Cowes High will become a trust school run by the Cowes Pathfinder Partnership, with Carisbrooke and Medina secondary schools run as a federation by Medina Innovation Trust (MIT).

All three primary schools in Ventnor will close and a new CE/Catholic voluntary aided primary school will be established on the present middle school site. Brading and St Helens and Shalfleet and Yarmouth schools will merge to become ‘federated’ primary schools. A new East Cowes primary school will also be created, run by the East Cowes, Whippingham and Osborne (EWO) Community Trust as a trust school.

The decisions, which were passed by full council, are likely to be ratified by cabinet members on Thursday (October 1).

CHALE TO STAY?

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

WELCOME ABOARD!

THE IW Fire and Rescue Service (IW FRS) joined forces with Surrey Fire and Rescue Service (Surrey FRS) to unveil a new state of the art mobile data system.

After successfully developing one of the country’s most sophisticated data systems, Surrey FRS is allowing Island firefighters to experience the benefits that the device has to offer.

The new system will replace the current paper one on the Island, and when put to use across all stations it will enable them to provide a more effective response for residents and highlight potential risks for firefighters.

The integration of the new system is a part of the IW FRS ‘Model for Change’ process to help modernise the service.

The official signing between Surrey Chief Fire Officer, Russell Pearson, and IW Chief Fire Officer, Paul Street took place at Ryde Fire Station headquarters.

Also in attendance to witness the signing of the agreement were Justin Harden from IW FRS, Carl Walker, Systems IT Manager for Surrey FRS, and Councillors Barry Abraham and David Whittaker.

All the information is held on ‘Toughbooks’, which are tablet computers that can be removed from appliances if required and taken directly in to an incident. As well as risk information such as locations of hazards, the system holds critical safety information,

BY JAMIE WHITE including fire safety guidance, training videos, language translation, and details of buildings that have received fire safety checks.

Surrey developed the system with software supplier IMASS, which has been working with fire personnel to ensure the system meets the needs of the Island.

Justin Harden, Operational Planning Manager for the IW FRS, said: “We are delighted to be working with Surrey FRS and IMASS. Together they have great experience and we feel confident of adopting an existing system that is already proving successful in Surrey. It will enable us to provide vital information on every type of incident saving valuable time and enable safe systems of work.”

Paul Street, IW Chief Fire Officer, said: “We were in desperate need of a new system, and this all started with Russell (Pearson) and myself having a meeting, and Russell, being into his gadgets, had the Toughbook with him and showed it to me.

“He kindly said come and have a look at the system and it looked very nice. But it was a bit like an Aston Martin in the sense that it looked very nice but you don’t touch because you know you couldn’t afford it, and you

just walk away from it. But Russell goaded me in to it, and that was the start of the project. I was immediately sold on the idea.

“We’d had a partnership with Surrey before but nothing on this scale. It will take us forward as a fire service data it the key and making sure that we have got the tools at the sharp end, and is vital to the safety of the service.

“We couldn’t afford to wait a system to be implemented by the government, because that will never happen.

We have a duty to protect our firefighters and our community. It is fantastic that we are now joined together with something that was once just a vision. But now as small service we are effectively the 12th Borough of Surrey.”

Russell Pearson, Surrey Chief Officer, added: “The project provides proof of the concept for the remote operation of systems and has allowed us to generate savings of approximately £300,000.

“We have almost 450,000 homes in Surrey, compared to about 65,000 on the IW, and we’re getting new information added on to the system all the time. By sharing our knowledge and experience we’ve enabled our IW colleagues to implement the new system both quickly and efficiently at a time when crew safety is at the forefront of the national fire service agenda.”

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Chief Fire Officer Russell Pearson from Surry Fire and Rescue shaking hands with Paul Street, IW Chief Fire Officer.

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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BURST PIPE LEAVES HUNDREDS HIGH AND DRY TEACHER WAS CLASS ACT TRIBUTES have been paid to former Broadlea Primary School teacher Mark Lee, who tragically died from a head injury after falling from a ladder.

Messages of support to his family and memories from friends have been posted in a ‘Mark Andrew Lee 04.07.1950-23.09.2009’ group on the social networking site Facebook.

Some of the messages include, ‘such a sad and tragic loss to everyone who knew him,’ and ‘a lovely man with a

big heart! You will be forever remembered in our hearts.’

Mr Lee spent 23 years as headteacher at Broadlea Primary in Sandown, before retiring, and was also a governor of Medina House School.

More recently, he had been working with Chichester University as a mentor and was also involved with Sandown High School.

Mr Lee’s funeral takes place next Tuesday (October 6) at 2pm at All Saints Church, Queens Road, Shanklin.

FESTIVAL UP FOR AWARDS

A BURST water pipe left homes in Ryde, Nettlestone and Seaview without water for several hours.

The problem was spotted

by St Helens resident Vernon Stratton, who went outside to discover that his garden was under four inches of water.

“I went outside to feed my swans and saw what looked like a frost. I thought to myself that can’t be frost, and then noticed a big gush of water coming out of the ground,” said Mr Stratton.

It is the third time that Mr Stratton has suffered a flooded garden as a result of the pipe bursting.

“I have been living at the house for 18 years and it’s the third time it has happened.

Apparently the pipe was laid in 1879. I think it’s probably about time the pipe was changed.

BY JASON KAY “Southern Water came to the property this morning and turned off the stopcocks, but initially I think that they may have turned off the wrong one. It seemed they turned off the Ryde one instead of the Bembridge and St Helens.

“When I got over to my shed my tractor was under water.

The whole of the shed was under water. The water was gushing all over the place,” added Mr Stratton.

The water company discovered a 12-inch hole and started to repair it when a second burst occurred on another stretch of pipe.

Water was restored to all homes after a few hours.

Vernon Stratton on his tractor

THE IW Festival was a few months ago, but it still lives vividly in the minds of the thousands who turned up at Seaclose Park for the music spectacular.

Now is the chance for Gazette readers to vote on whether they think it really is the best festival of the summer.

The event won ‘Best Major UK Festival’ in 2007 and came close again in 2008.

Now it is back in the running to win again at this year’s UK Festival Awards. It has also received nominations for the best toilets and best headline performances.

The IW Festival isn’t the only Island summer spectacle to be recognised.

The Bestival, which took place in September, has also been shortlisted in the ‘Best Medium Sized Festival’ and has received nominations for the Virtual Festivals critics award, best headline performance, best toilets and best dance event.

Shortlisting from the first stage of voting is now complete. Voting closes on October 14...but here’s the really exciting bit! Everyone who takes part in voting is eligible for the ultimate festival prize-draw to win two VIP tickets to every winning festival.

Check out how you can vote on www.festivalawards.com.

10

NEWS

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

‘I HAVE GOT MY LIFE BACK’

Jean Sorbie with her husband Andy

SHANKLIN resident Jean Sorbie has launched an appeal for all Islanders to carry an organ donor card, claiming: “Without one I wouldn’t be here!”

Mrs Sorbie suffered from a heart condition for more than 25 years. Then suddenly she received the call she had been waiting for – and now after receiving a new heart at the world-famous Papworth Hospital she says: “I have got my life back.”

The 67-year-old has revealed exclusively to The Gazette not only how the operation has dramatically changed her life, but how important it is for everyone to carry donor cards.

She believes the importance of carrying cards cannot be over-emphasised, and urges everyone to consider the prospect, knowing that despite the tragedy that comes with losing a family member, someone else’s life may be saved –just as hers was.

She explained: “I suffered a condition known as

cardio-myopathy, which meant the muscles around the heart gradually stiffened and it made the heart difficult to beat. I first became aware of it in my early 40s, and it slowly got worse.

“When I went to Southampton Hospital for an examination I was told that if I sat around with my feet up I might last another 30 years, but the risk of sudden death was still very high.

“At one stage it became so bad that I couldn’t walk the 100 yards from my home to the post box without having to stop three or four rimes. In all I had three pacemakers fitted, but in the end I was told there as nothing more anyone could do for me, unless I had a heart transplant.

“I was 66 at the time, and thought I was too old to have a new heart. But I was reassured age is no barrier, just as long as you make the most of the new life you are given.”

Mrs Sorbie, of Cedar Drive, Shanklin, went on to

the waiting list just over a year ago. She and husband Andy even considered leaving the Island to move nearer to Papworth Hospital, but were told it was not necessary. If the right heart came up, they would ensure Mrs Sorbie’s safe passage to hospital.

She continued: “When I went on the list, Andy and I were told to pack a couple of overnight bags, and keep them handy – just in case.

“Then on the night of January 7. I got the call to say a heart was available that matched. It was a few minutes after midnight, and by 12.45am the taxi was at the door to pick us up. It was just as well we had the cases packed.”

By 3.30pm that afternoon Mrs Sorbie was heading for the operating theatre at the Cambridgeshire Hospital, and by 9.30pm that evening she had her new heart. She said: “Three days later I was out of bed and walking around, and less than three weeks later I was back home.”

So how has it changed her life? She explained: “I

could do very little around the house. Even if I did a bit of shopping I couldn’t lift it out of the car and into the house. I simply could not have managed without the help of my husband, he was wonderful.

“Now I am enjoying life again. I can drive down to Hope Beach and walk along the revetment to Sandown and back. I cannot believe the change in lifestyle.

I have two children and three grandchildren, and they have all signed up as donors after seeing how it has benefitted me.”

Mrs Sorbie does not know the family of the donor who gave her a new life. The only thing she can do is write a letter anonymously through the hospital, and they will pass it on if the donor’s family wish.

“If they do not want to know, then that is something you have to accept. But I cannot begin to explain how thankful I am that this person was carrying an organ donor card. And that is why I feel it is so important that other people do the same.”

ROY’S MEMORY LIVING ON A WINDOW and a tree were dedicated in memory of Roy Westmore OBE at St Olave’s church last weekend.

In a packed service, the venerable Caroline Baston, Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight, dedicated both the new window to the right of the door and a Hawthorn tree in the corner of the new churchyard.

Roy Westmore was Church Warden at St Olave’s from 1947 until 2007 – 60 years in which he was a leading light in the community.

He was also instrumental in getting the land for the new churchyard where his

tree now stands, and past president of the Chillerton Horticultural Society who gave the tree.

Donations taken at the funeral services of Roy and his sister Dorothy made this memorial possible along with additional donations from the County Club.

Around sixty friends and family attended the dedication service and mingled in the churchyard after the service. Among them were Mrs Hilda Corbett and Mrs Joan Baker who were at school with Roy and his sister Dorothy Westmore in nearby Chillerton.

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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NEWS

SPOT OF BOTHER WITH THE HOVER

BOTHER with a couple of Hovercrafts on Sunday sparked a full-scale rescue involving Ryde Inshore Rescue with the further assistance of GAFIR (Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue).

The alarm was raised just after 1.30pm after a mayday call was put out by two hovercrafts that were taking on water in

DISTRESSED BEACON

Osborne Bay. One craft had suffered mechanical failure and the other had gone to try to help but had also broken down.

Ryde Rescue One and Gosport Rescue One were both sent to the area to recover the three youths and one adult and then the vessels and casualties were taken to Lee On Solent.

AN ISLAND man sparked a coastguard alert when he threw a distress beacon into a skip at Lynbottom Tip. The discarded beacon was accidentally activated and sent out an alert signal, which was picked up by a satellite and relayed to Falmouth Coastguard and Solent coastguard.

Officers were immediately informed and they managed to track down the owner as he left the recycling centre and de-activated the alarm.

FIRE RIDERS TO THE RESCUE RYDE Rescue One was flagged down by an 8ft angling vessel that had suffered engine failure and required a tow into Ryde Harbour. As they were completing this job they were flagged down by another vessel, also with engine failure, with a crew of two firefighters onboard. All desperate to get back to the mainland as they were due on watch at Swanage fire station in eight hours, Ryde Rescue One towed them to Gosport Marina.

BARCLAYS STAFF IN CHARITY RIDE A TEAM of 20 Barclays Bank staff from across the Island and Portsmouth are cycling from Haslemere to Ventnor, in a bid to raise money for charity.

The ride covers a distance of 55 miles, and it is hoped that £5,000 will be raised for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and St Mary’s Radiotherapy unit. Barclays have said that they will match any amount

that is raised.

The event takes place next Thursday (October 8), and is being held on behalf Barclays staff member Nicky Tweddle, who is terminally ill.

For those not participating in the ride, a series of events are taking place next week in every branch across the area.

If you would like to sponsor the ride you can call Simon on 07775 550137.

www.iwgazette.co.uk

12

NEWS

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

COLIN IS SKIPPER FOR A DAY FEARLESS Colin McArthur took part in a daredevil sea rescue to help raise funds for the RP Fighting Blindness charity.

Colin, 58, is registered blind and has amazingly already flown a plane and piloted a hovercraft in a bid to raise money for a cause that is close to his heart.

Colin, who lives in Sandown, was accompanied by the crew members of

BY JAMIE WHITE Bembridge RNLI and IW Radio pairing Michael Coombes and Paul Topping, who were also rescued as part of the daring stunt.

“It was a brilliant and wonderful experience,” said Colin, who suffers from a

blindness condition called retinis pigmentosa.

The rescue started with Colin, Michael, Paul and Christine White wading out to in to the sea before being rescued by the lifeboat crew.

But the action didn’t stop there. Once Colin was aboard the lifeboat, he got to skipper the £1m vessel in the calm waters just off Whitecliff Bay,Bembridge.

“It was great to be out there

“It was great to be out there and it was totally different to flying a plane.”

and it was totally different to flying a plane. The sea was very calm, and I think it would have been very different if it had of been in stormy conditions.

“The lifeboat crew do an amazing job and I really take my hat off to them.

It was very cold out there but they had me out of the water in no time,” said Colin.

Once the staged rescue had taken place, IW Radio’s

Paul Topping and Michael Coombes linked arms and jumped into the chilly water.

Michael said: “It was very cold out there, and I’m sure my dry suit had a hole in it!”

Paul added: “It was a great day and Colin and the RNLI were amazing.”

Over the weekend other events were held at Whitecliff Bay Holiday Park, and just over £4,000 was raised.

When I asked Colin if he had anymore fundraising spectacles coming up, he replied: “I am hopefully finalising another stunt very soon, so watch this space!”

CYCLING ON A HIGH

OVER £3,000 has been raised for the Hampshire and IW Air Ambulance as a part of the Recycle The Island 2009.

The Air Ambulance landed in the overflow car park at Tesco Ryde, and soon people were flocking over to see what all the fuss was Left to right: Jan Biddlecombe, Marie Gladdis, Store about as the pilots and manager Hayley Shepherd, Karin Tubb, Jayne Arnold paramedics chatted with Workers raised the money the chance to dress up again the public, showed them STAFF at the Co-op store in Mill Hill Road, Cowes have by wearing various types of as the cheque was presented around the helicopter and raised £1,400 for the Earl fancy dress every day for a to the representatives of the explained about some of the week. Members of staff took hospice.

Mountbatten Hospice. remarkable work they do.

FANCY DRESS FUNDRAISER

Not long after the Air Ambulance had landed, the Air Sea Rescue helicopter landed in the same car park, next to the Air Ambulance.

The Vectis Corp of Drums turned up to add to the entertainment as people were heading out on the course.

The 50-strong Bag It Up re-cycling team set off with several other people in tow, including Fraser Rowbotham, Air Ambulance Team Leader.

The Air Sea Rescue helicopter then disappeared to practice their winch training over in Sandown Bay followed by the Air Ambulance which was dispatched on a 999 call. The Air Sea Rescue returned in the afternoon and was joined

by Bazza the Bank and a Lemur mascot from the IW Zoo. All the cyclists returned safely and having raised a spectacular amount of money.

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

13

ICE SKATING REWARD FOR PUPILS

More than 1500 middle and high school pupils on the Island are being presented with free family ice skating tickets as a reward for attending every day of school during the summer 2009 term.

The scheme, which is run between the IW Council’s education welfare service and Planet Ice, aims to reward students who attend school while also helping crackdown on truancy figures.

It proved successful in Ryde where middle and high schools in the town took part in a trial scheme last year.

The results showed there was a 28 per cent rise in overall student attendance at the schools when compared to the previous year.

IW council leader David Pugh said: “It is very pleasing that so many students will be getting free family ice skating tickets.

“This scheme is about giving a little something

back to those who make the effort to go to school every day.

Every term since we began this scheme we have seen the number of students with 100 per cent attendances rise which demonstrates this scheme is

acheiving what it’s designed to do.”

Lorna Cotton, Manager of Planet Ice in Ryde, said: “Planet Ice is pleased to be running the 100 per cent attendance scheme for another year with

support from the council. With the figures that show over 1500 students will be getting tickets, I am very happy with the outcome and hope to improve on this in the forthcoming year.

“Planet Ice realises the importance of working with the community and offering the right incentives to young people to achieve greater goals. We have rolled out our 100 per cent attendance scheme in most of the areas local to our ice rinks and the results have been phenomenal.

“This term will show more positive results from our young people and it’s great to see this scheme take off and have such a positive effect.”

Support for the project is also provided by the Wightlink Raiders, with members of the team going into schools to present certificates and skating passes to students.

KIDS MAKE A SPLASH FOR LIFEBOATS

A lifeboat tow and fun day by Shanklin Church of England Primary School has helped raise more than £400 for Sandown and Shanklin Inshore Lifeboat (SSIL).

Staff, pupils and parents joined in the fundraising and took part in a sponsored lifeboat tow to help raise money for new equipment including dry suits and lifejackets for the crew.

Teacher, Jenny Bolt, said: “The idea to raise funds for the SSIL first came when I was sat on the end of Sandown pier fishing and not catching anything, when I saw the SSIL out training. I just thought they would be a good cause to support.

“We raised the funds by

doing a lifeboat tow and a beach collection around the holidaymakers. Of the funds raised, half went to school the other half to SSIL. “It was important for

was very good.

“We are planning to raise more funds by doing even being and better next year. We would like to thanks Alan at the café for the help that they did with putting out the collection buckets and more seating.”

Headteacher, Dave Kitching , said: “SSIL is the nearest boat to our school, and if we ever need it or the children ever need it we want it to be there.

“It’s important that the children understand that is a need locally, and by doing this it keeps it in their minds. People can offer there time but if they have not got any Coxswain Mark Birch (top left) with his Sandown funds to help do the job its not going to be there.” and Shanklin Inshore Lifeboat team us because SSIL is not funded by the RNLI and if we don’t look after them we are going to lose them. It was very good fun and there were a lot of children there which

SSIL Coxswain, Mark Birch, added: “I want to thank the school and everyone who took part in the day and helped raise money. It’s important to keep the community and the children involved to see exactly what we do.”

NEWS

14

FEATURE

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

CLASSICALLY BRITISH BIKES

Organiser of the British Bike rally last weekend, David Chiverton (Chivvy), was very pleased with the turn out.

“We’re the BSA 100s group and we belong to the BSA national club and we invite other clubs down to this rally. It’s not just the BSA, we’ve got Triumph, Norton, Royal Enfield and Ariel, so basically it’s any old English bikes,” said David.

“We encourage women. Most of those here know about the bikes and

can do them or their boyfriends can fix them. We do our own repairs, we don’t take them to a garage or anything. We know the works inside and out.

“The ride out went well. No-one got lost or broke down and we went to the Needles and came back all right. We had a good run. Generally it’s a problem with the traffic and a car comes and splits you up but this year is wasn’t a problem.

“We collect tickets for the best bike

and we’ve made some trophies. We do the long distance, the best bike, the worst bike and runners up. The worst bike is generally a working bike, a courier’s bike that has been used and abused with an old fashioned look to it. - wear and tear.

“This year is our fourth rally and we’ve got a lot of local people who want to join. We were at the classic car rally last weekend and the pictures in the paper helped and we also handed out flyers.

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

15

FEATURE

JIM KEEPS IT IN THE FAMILY

Jim Dunford was pleased to show off his bike at the classic bike rally at Smallbrook Stadium. “It’s a BSA combination – I’ve had it 18 months. I started riding when I was 16 on a BSA and when we got the family business out of the way in 1994 I took it up again. I’m a motor mechanic. It’s become a pastime and the wife’s taken to it because it’s the only way to get a holiday,” he joked.

Jim’s wife was very supportive. “I quite enjoy it really. He always wanted a combination. I’ve got a C15 – he’s got me into it. I’ve only once ridden the bike where he sat in the sidecar and I rode from Northwood

to Yarmouth but he kept on too much about the gears.”

“It’s down to the bike, not the rider,” said Jim supportively. “It doesn’t slip into gear quite how you’d like it to.

“My friend led the ride out today and I was behind him,” he continued. “It went very well. Everyone did what they were told.

One gentleman had a wasp down his shirt and it stung him quite well.”

Jim’s children were also at the event and thought the bike was ‘wicked’. Jim’s father James senior said that he no longer rode although he had when he was younger. “I’ve been in the sidecar. He’s pretty good. He’s covered a few

miles in it now. I got rid of mine back in the 50s – I had a Norton 500 with a girder frame. My wife used

to go out with me. This is a good idea,” he added he said of the rally. “I didn’t go on the ride out though.”

James Dunford Snr.

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Call our newsdesk now on 409928

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NEWS

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

CAPTAIN WAS A TRUE HERO

THE town of Bembridge is mourning the passing of one of its true characters following the death of Captain B J B “Bill” Sloley VRD, at the age of 87.

Capt. Sloley, always known affectionately as Bill, was a prominent member of the Bembridge society, with a strong affinity to Bembridge Sailing Club. But that was only one small part of a remarkable life of a man who was part of one of the lead British units to land in France on D Day. He was officer in command of P Troop that was in the first wave that went ashore at Lion sur Mer on June 6, 1944.

Having been commissioned into the Royal Marines as a Temp 2nd Lieutenant in 1941,

he joined the 2nd Battalion later in the year and became the Gas & Entertainment Officer! He was promoted to full Lieutenant in December, 1941 and later volunteered for the newly formed Royal Marine C o m m a n d o s .

After completing his Commando training he joined the 450 strong 41 (Royal Marines) Commando in early 1943.

The unit was, at that time, based here on the Island with the majority billeted with families at homes in Bembridge, Ryde, Seaview, St Helens and Nettlestone while they undertook training, much of which was based from Ryde Pier. Bill was initially billeted in Dover Street Ryde and ended up for the final few weeks at what was the Ryde Esplanade Hotel.

The Commando then embarked and sailed to North Africa. It was one of the lead units to land in Sicily, and subsequently went onto Italy, where early on during the landings at Salerno Bill was shot in the knee.

However, he remained in Italy convalescing and returned with the Commando to UK via North Africa in 1944.

Although wrongly put ashore on Red Beach on D Day, his P Troop swiftly moved across to White Beach and within minutes were heading for their first

objective a little way inland.

P Troop, still with Bill in command, landed on November 1, 1944 on the Westkappelle dyke.

The German’s put up a strong resistance but after a prolonged period of intense fighting, the Commando secured most of the key areas on the Island.

In February 1946, Bill was informed that he had been “Mentioned in Dispatches” for services rendered in NW

Hospice News Choirs Sing Out for Island Hospice October is certainly a good time to be on the Island if you like Choir music and wish to support the Hospice.

On Thursday October 8 at 7pm at the Winter Gardens in Ventnor there is a free concert featuring Ventnor Voices, Bonchurch Village Singers and Wight Satin Ladies Barbershop. They will be performing songs from the shows and sacred music.

The event is free but places are limited so please call the Ventnor Winter Gardens to reserve you free tickets. Tel 857581.

Meanwhile on Saturday October 17 there are two very different choirs performing on the Island for the benefit of our hospice.

At St Mary’s Church in Cowes at 8pm the Newquay Male Voice Choir will perform an eclectic mix of musical numbers.

Cornish pieces such as “Home, Home

Europe. He was demobbed on April 23, 1946. But he retained his close affinity with 41 (Royal Marines) Commando and was one of the founder members of the Officers Dinner Club, and was its Honorary Secretary for 22 years.

H a v i n g honeymooned back on the Isle of Wight after the war, he and his wife Heather returned to Bembridge in the mid-1960s for family holidays and moved over to live permanently in the early 70’s.

He was persuaded in 1990 to take on the task of honorary secretary, which he did with great success for four years. Indeed he became so key to the Club’s welfare that he was subsequently asked to also cover the job of Rear Commodore Administration from 1992 to 1995.

Five ex-commodores of Bembridge Sailing Club were among around 200 who attended his funeral in Bembridge. He is survived by widow Heather and children Richard and Anna.

Hospice Fundraising: Telephone - 528989

from the Sea” will blend with a range of international love songs and even an African prayer.

Tickets are £5 each and are available from the Fundraising Team at the Hospice by calling 528989.

Finally at The Winter Gardens in Ventnor on Saturday October 17 at 8pm The Wonderyears Choir, one of the UK’s leading senior citizens rock choirs and band will be performing a wide range of hits and classics. To reserve your place please call the Winter Gardens on 857581.

at the Hospice and let us know what you have decided to do.

Two of the first companies to sign up to Hospice Go Yellow Day are Bon Marche in Newport, who are holding a Gorgeous Grand-daughter competition and Gary Hall’s Plaza Ice Cream business which will be giving away ice cream for donations on Friday October 9.

It’s not too late for you to get involved with Hospice Go Yellow Day – simply ring the fundraising department on 528989 and we will send you a pack.

Hospice Go Yellow – Please tell us How you are taking part

Dogs Walk the Wight Fundraising Dog Walk Sunday October 25.

Hospice Go Yellow Day Friday October 9 has really caught people’s imagination.

If you have signed up to “GO YELLOW” please give the fundraising team a ring

Join the Hospice in Parkhurst Forest on Sunday October 25 at 10am for a charity dog walk in aid of the Island’s Hospice.

For more details please call 528989.

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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NEWS

RIDING HIGH AT SOMERTON

Almost 100 horses and riders enjoyed strong competition jumping round Mr and Mrs David Biles’ excellent cross-country course at the Somerton Two Day Event and Cross Country.

On the last three occasions, the event, which is run by the IW Hunt Supporters’ Club and forms a major fund-raiser for the IW Foxhounds, has included a two-day event for teams or individuals comprising dressage,

show jumping and cross-country.

The dressage and show jumping sections are held at Somerton Farm before the cross-country, which forms the final phase.

On day one, a mock hunt was held at Somerton Farm, which gave many competitors the opportunity of a first look at the jumping course and those not competing in the event enjoyed a gallop across the farm. The mist settled in the valley to produce a

perfect hunting morning, although hounds were left safely in the kennels on this occasion.

Huntsman Rick Dolphin blew his horn in the far corners of the farm and the field jumped its way towards him as the sun came up.

Later that day, the first riders contested the dressage and show jumping phases of the two-day event.

The dressage arena with its perfectly prepared turf, surrounded by flowers, white dressage boards

and markers looked fit for Badminton or Burley. Alongside it was the Grays Traditional hospitality marquee, where 40 guests gathered the following day for lunch and an overview of the day’s cross-county action.

Worthy winners of the Open Cross-Country, jumping the most challenging course of the day was Jodie Warwick with Final Dream. Later in the day, the Minimus and Novice classes attracted a big entry

and provided lots of fun and a great experience, with Stephanie Webb taking first place in the Minimus category and second place in the pairs, with her sister Kirsty.

The Goonies Team won the Novice Two Day Team Event, and Vicky Dwight was the highest place individual competitor.

Helen Falconbridge took the Intermediate section and the prizes were presented at a formal prize giving at the Chequers Inn, Rookley, on October 2.

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18

FEATURE

KEN PUTS HEART AND SOUL INTO BUSINESS

It’s almost twenty years to the day since Ken Hartill opened Computer Plus in Scarrots Lane, Newport and he’s celebrating in style, offering two brand new Epson printers for readers to win.

“When I first started on Friday October 1, 1989, I had a little shop up the road that was 10ft by 16ft, selling Amstrad, Commodore and Sega machines,” said Ken. “If you got four customers in the shop you were full. At the time there was no-one doing games and we were the largest independent.

In December 1992, we moved to larger premises a few yards away.

“I had to diversify when the big stores appeared, such as Game and HMV, and I became a business centre like Staples.

The whole shop was full of computers and office supplies,” said Ken who still repairs and upgrades computers. “At present we offer a complete wipe clean and reinstall of a

computer for only £25,” said Ken. “One of the biggest things to happen for me was seeing the Epson stand at a trade show. We started selling Epson printers and computer upgrades. Then six years ago, in 2003, I was

approached by Epson to open an Epson Express Centre,” said Ken. “I had a day’s training at Epson and we became ‘Centre 34’, one of the first ones in the country,” said Ken proudly.

“We’re the only one on the Island and if anyone has a problem with their Epson they get sent straight to us. If it’s under warranty and we can’t fix it within 20 minutes we have to offer a replacement. “ If you buy a new Epson printer from Ken, your old one will be completely recycled by Epson too.

Ken’s son Matt opened the internet café seven years ago and this year he extended into the first floor. Downstairs in now for general internet users and upstairs tends to be dedicated to the LAN gaming that the café is famous for.

“The next phase of the business will be a small business centre offering printing, scanning, faxing and copying. “In conjunction with the internet café we can now burn photos onto CDs and copy documents to be sent out from computers,” said Ken. The shop can now also organise Western Union money transfers.

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

WIN!

Epson SX400 and SX100 Colour Printers courtesy of Computer Plus & Epson

This week Epson and Computer Plus have teamed up to give two lucky readers the chance to win one of two colour printers.

To be in with a chance of winning, simply answer the question below.

Question: In which year did Ken Hartill’s business become an Epson Express Centre?

Answer:

Name: Address:

Tel no:

The prize will be awarded to the first correct entry opened after Wednesday October 15th, 2009.

Terms and conditions apply. Employees and their immediate families of Computer Plus and The Gazette are not allowed to enter. The editor’s decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into.

Epson SX 400 & SX 100 Colour Printers

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

DON’T FORGET THE PARTY!

It may seem a little premature, but it is really now that you should be thinking of booking your Christmas party or you may find that all of the best

the answer.

You need a venue that is large enough to contain all of your guests – it may sound obvious but do not underestimate your

venues have been taken.

Ever wondered why some businesses end up having their Christmas party in January – this could be

numbers. If our guests can’t get in the door, they aren’t going to stick around.

For this reason it is

often advisable to have at least two rooms – a bar and a restaurant or a reception area and a main ballroom or disco room.

Not everyone will want to be in a noisy environment all of the time. Make sure you have a ‘chill out’ area for later on in the evening too.

Don’t book a cavernous venue and then find you have only twenty guests. And if you’re booking a restaurant find out if you have the whole room or only part of it. You could end up sharing your Christmas party with the local rugby team – make sure you

Jo Blogs

I do not like b e i n g winge of the week!

But at this time of the night on deadline day I feel wound up like a clock, so positivity is possibly not on my agenda. The moral of this story is clearly to write this column earlier in the week, when the sun is shining and my mood is as light as an autumn leaf, falling gently to the forest floor.

Autumn, now there’s a topic. Why do I feel this sense of foreboding every year at around this time?

Is it because for the best part of seventeen of my formative years in September/October I would look out of the window of a classroom or lecture hall and wonder why I was back behind a desk instead of outside in the exciting wide wild world, and feel trapped?

Or is it because of the darkness?

I just don’t think it’s that simple.

I think it’s because I’ve forgotten how to look forward to the winter with anticipation and the darkness enfolds me as I plod into a mire of my own making.

I no longer look forward to Christmas because it’s going to be a fun time with the children and friends. Instead I think of all the negatives: not having enough money to buy the things they want, not having my parents to share Christmas with anymore, not being slim enough to fit into my winter clothes. You name it; I’ll find a reason not to be happy about

winter if I can.

So this year I’ll try looking forward to Halloween for starters. We can cut out pumpkin lanterns and even try a spooky walk somewhere.

Next its Firework night and I’ve already decided to build a bonfire – maybe I could symbolically burn my woes. And Christmas this year needs planning right now – If I don’t arrange what I’m going to do then I won’t have anything to look forward to.

Maybe I’ll even have a party. But to kick it all off I might just head on over to Whitwell to the Haymakers Ball this Saturday night from 6.30pm till late or to the Sunday Joint next day from noon till six – or both. And if you’re looking for a right old hoedown this weekend then head for Joe Brown’s Meadow in Whitwell.

Billed as the end of summer event, organised by Blunt Events who helped to bring us Madness and The Stranglers this summer, the dress code is ‘Optional Bumpkin Chic’ with a prize for the best outfit. Soultone and STD play on the Saturday and on Sunday lead singer of the Foxes, Nigel Thomas, tops a bill that includes Acoustic Originals on tour from their home at the Quay Arts. See ya pardners!

A FUN quiz is being held at Harry’s Bar, Shanklin Old Village on Wednesday (October 7) starting at 8pm. All proceeds from the event will be donated to local charities, and teams are welcome.

know what you’re getting.

Sort out arrangements for leaving coats or other personal belongings. If these are to be left in a separate room you need to let people know and you may need to arrange for someone to be cloakroom attendant.

If your venue is not in a town then it is a very good idea to arrange transport for your guests – especially for an office party. Minibuses can be ordered and paid for at the office long before the night in question and will work out a lot cheaper than individual taxis.

A themed party is fun, fancy dress can be hilarious and foam parties are for teenagers.

Pick a theme that fits your guests – it’s always worth sending around a questionnaire if you’re planning a work do, to ask for other people’s ideas.

This way you can always blame it on someone else.

19

FEATURE To Advertise Your Xmas Parties or Events Telephone James NOW on: 402599 Issue dates: 16th October, 30th October 13th November, 7th November

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20

FEATURE

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

GET YOUR GARDEN READY FOR NEXT YEAR

Anne Ginger

Est. 1980

Manufacturers of fine soft furnishings

Curtains - Blinds - Loose Covers - Headboards Extensive library of designer fabrics and wallpapers FREE ESTIMATES

Everything for a stylish interior 4B Lake Ind. Way, Newport Road, Lake Tel: 01983 407730 Web: www.anneginger.co.uk

Now is the time to take a long look at your garden and decide how to improve its look for next year. Some things cannot be done when your plants are in full bloom, particularly putting in fencing, trellising or building a decking area.

Cut back your dying perennials and see what’s going on behind them.

You may need to replace existing fencing or extend upwards. If you’re trying to train a climber along your fencing you could add a trellis extension to the top.

Trellis pieces could be attached to walls, an

archway could be put in place for a clematis or climbing rose or a pergola could be put in place for a vine or Virginia creeper.

The autumn is the time to plant any trees or, if you are installing fencing, you could run a hedge along your side to add interest, but make sure the fence is in place first or you’ll damage the roots.

County Fencing in Brighstone will be able to supply all of your fencing, decking and garden structures but can also supply gates, posts and security fencing too.

Whether for your home or business, County Fencing are likely to have what you’re looking for – just pop over to Brighstone for a look.

On the bend as you enter Brighstone from the Newport direction, travel down Broad Lane, over a small bridge and County Fencing is just on your right on Waytes Court Farm.

This small family run business has been trading for around 15 years.

Started as a sideline to his cereal, potato and beef farm, John Wannop decided to diversify and

daughter Julie Wannop Corney joined him later.

“You’re welcome to come and have a look to get ideas,” said Julie. “We’re always available to give advice, you can see all of the stock and we have many catalogues too..”

County Fencing can arrange installation, as they did with these driveway gates (in photo), they deliver Island wide and quotations are free.

As they are independent traders you may find a wider range of products and be surprised by their prices.

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

Rose print fabric from Bennison

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Blue toile ‘Asticou’ by Nina Campbell

SOFT FURNISHINGS APLENTY

Walk into Anne Ginger’s showroom in Lake and you walk into a hive of industry and a fantastic range of fabrics.

Every wall has a sumptuous curtain hanging on it and through the archways on either side of the showroom are large airy workrooms with enormous tables on which the curtains are being made.

Top designers are featured among the fabrics on offer from companies such as Osborne and Little, Colefax and Fowler and Sanderson including Jane Churchill and Nina Campbell.

Romo is also popular with their large prints, stripes and checks.

Toile is always in fashion and the blue and white version in this photograph has a Chinese feel.

Some of the fabrics have matching wallpapers too – you could have a feature wall with matching curtains. You can have the full service of measuring and making your curtains or just purchase fabric for personal use.

When you come into the shop there is help and advice from experienced soft furnishings specialists.

Anne Ginger has a Luxaflex

shop-in-shop blind centre, to the far left of the showroom. Being an Inspiration dealer she is able to offer something innovative and special. Choose from the more traditional fabric blinds, plisse blinds or silhouette blinds in which the drops are suspended in a net fabric. Panel Glides are Japanese styled screens that slide across your room, that can be stacked behind each other – ideal for making rooms smaller or larger.

Luxaflex also have a wide range of wooden shutters in many colours and designs. Awnings for homes and businesses are also available to order.

Anne has a very personal service, visiting clients and advising them and has many second home owners on the Island as customers. But Anne’s clients come from all over the UK particularly in and around the London area, and as far afield as Scotland. Orders from Germany and Canada have been taken via the website at www. anneginger.co.uk The showroom on Lake Industrial Estate is open 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 9.30am to 4.30pm on Saturdays.

To advertise with the Isle of Wight Gazette Call: 402599

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

DAVE GOES ISLAND HOPPING Colonel Bogeys is a man down as of this week.

Dave Hollidge who has been with the club for the past 19 years has quit to take a new job in Guernsey and the club was packed for his goodbye party last Friday.

Swapping one sunny Isle for another, Dave is taking to the turntables in his new role at the Barbados Beach Club in St Peters Port.

“They want more pop, commercial dance and cheese,” said Dave who has been a regular DJ at Bogeys 80s nights, although he’s also been general manager.

“I wanted to do a bit more DJing before I get too old,” said 41 year-old Dave.

“Also I get more time off,

especially during the day, which means my kids will be able to visit.

“It’s a bit of a challenge.

I was approached through Matt James who also used to DJ at Bogeys who had met one of the agents.

I went over and did an audition and they offered me the job there and then.

“I started on Tuesday, which is one of the quieter nights. The club is smaller than Bogeys – it only holds 400 people.

Ian Moody and Jordan Peak will be manning the turntables at Bogeys now that Dave has sailed off to sunnier climes. “I’m told it gets pretty stormy here in the winter though,” said Dave.

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

BACK TO THE FIFTIES

AND SIXTIES AT BELLAMY’S Good fresh cooked food in comfortable and homely surroundings with more than a hint of the 50s and 60s is what you’ll get at Bellamy’s in Sandown High Street. This popular bistro is very popular with locals and holidaymakers alike.

Yvonne Richardson and her partner Simon Phillips were going to move to Portugal but a deal fell through at the last minute. Taking a day trip to the Island then changed the course of their lives when they spied this premises, and last July they opened Bellamy’s to the public.

“I wanted to give the bistro a nostalgic feel and chose the 1950s and 60s. It’s the Island’s sort of era,” said Yvonne who named the restaurant after her

family name. A chef by trade, Yvonne has even added little touches like a cuckoo clock – you must remember how popular they were back in the 60s.

With background music from the era and freshly cooked favourites such as steak and kidney or chicken and mushroom pie you can also order pasta dishes – we were just discovering pasta in the 1960s if you remember.

Home made soups will be on the menu for the winter and home made stews and hot pots. All dishes are made on the premises from fresh produce – Bellamy’s buy their fruit and vegetables from Barrow Boys around the corner.

“We do good food at a reasonable price,” said Simon Phillips. “We’ve got

a good team working for us and a good local following.

We’ve had a lot of repeat business from holidaymakers too.”

For Halloween a special menu is planned: pumpkin soup, toad in the hole and swamp mud pudding.

Through the winter Thursdays will be pasta night with two meals for £12, Fridays will be fish night with two cod and chips for £10 and Saturdays two 10oz rump steaks with onion rings, mushrooms, peas, tomatoes, chips or potatoes will be only £22.

House red, white or rose wine can accompany your meal, or you can choose from Carlsberg, Stella Artois or St Miguel beers or Bulmers and Strongbow ciders.

Last meals are to be ordered by 8pm.

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

FEELING FRUITY?

For absolutely excellent quality and value fruit and veg you must make a trip to Barrow Boys in Sandown. Just off the High Street in York Road, you’ll have a warm welcome at this fresh green and white shop with its jaunty striped awnings.

Amazingly the full bowls of produce arranged on the tables outside are only £1 per serving – ten apples for a pound or three enormous sweet potatoes are also only £1.

This week there were braeburn, royal gala, granny smiths and pink lady apples, all at only £1 per bowl of ten. Also on offer were bowls of tangerines, grapes, pears and mushrooms.

For those who are

concerned about our environment this is the ideal way to shop. Just bring your own bags and your purchases can be put straight into them with no wasteful plastic packaging. And if you don’t want a deal you can buy exactly the number you want.

The ‘boys’ are Les Shaverien and his son James who moved down to the Island from London nine years ago.

Les has been ‘in the game’ for 30 years and James joined him when he was only 13 – helping out on the market stalls.

In fact you’ll still catch them running stalls – St George’s car boot sale on Sunday is one of their favourite pitches.

All of the produce is hand selected from the early markets in

Southampton, although James does add in some Island produce if it’s the right price and quality.

“We buy it with our eyes, because you buy it with yours,” said James, “and that way we get the best stock.” Just pop into the shop and you will see exactly what he means; plump cauliflowers and pert stalks of sprouts, shiny perfect apples and juicy grapes.

“We’ll have pumpkins arriving shortly – at the moment they’re a bit on the small side – soon we’ll have the bigger ones for cutting into lanterns. Moving up towards Christmas we’ll have mistletoe and holly wreaths,” said James.

Barrow Boys is open from 8.30am till 5pm from Tuesday to Saturday.

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FEATURE

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26

JOB SEARCH

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

FIND YOUR WAY BACK TO WORK WITH JOBCENTRE PLUS PART OF THE DEPARTMENT FOR WORK AND PENSIONS Job title Location Description

Wages Duration

Jobcentre Plus Reference Number.

How to Apply:

Store Manager

Ryde

To manage the day to day operation of the store whilst ensuring costs are contained within targets.

Competitive Wage plus benefits.

39 hrs per week.

5 days from 7.

Permanent

RFM/5934. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number.

Morning Cleaner

St Helens

Applicants with previous experience are preferred. Duties will include cleaning shop premises and toilets.

£6 per hr.

10 hrs per week.

Mon-Fri between 7am-10am.

Permanent

RFM/5933. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number.

Head Chef

Shanklin

Must be able to work under pressure in a busy pub environment with an emphasis on quality and freshly prepared food.

Negotiable wage depending on experience.

40 -45 hrs per week.

Shifts to be agreed.

Permanent

RFM/5929. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number.

Senior Carer (Nights)

Sandown

Applicants must have previous experience and NVQ qualification 2 or 3 is essential. You will be required to lead a shift.

£6.25 per hr Full time hours – Nights

Permanent

RFM/5844. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number.

SIA Licensed Security Officer

Newport

Must be SIA licensed. Will be required to carry out regular patrol and check calls. Providing a visual deterrent.

Exceeds National Minimum Wage.

48 hrs per week.

4 days or nights from 7.

Temporary on-going

NIW/9432. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number

Alteration Hand

Newport

Duties will include carrying out alterations on uniforms, curtains and related items and handing out uniforms. Must have experience.

Meets National Minimum wage.

20 hrs per week.

Mon-Fri 8am – 12 noon.

Permanent

NIW/9463. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number

Mobile Vehicle Technician

Newport

Must have worked in a service environment and ideally have experience in the fast food industry.

Must have a driving licence.

£14,790 per annum plus benefits.

44 hours per week over 5.5 days.

Permanent

NIW/9445. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number

Kitchen Assistant

Sandown

Previous experience and food hygiene certificate is essential.

£5.97 per hr.

13hrs per week.

Sat and Sun 10.30am -5pm.

Permanent

RFM/5924. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number

Cleaner

Merstone

Previous experience preferred. Duties to include general cleaning within a large listed building.

£7 per hr.

15 hrs per week Mon-Fri 9am-12noon.

Permanent

NIW/9474. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number

Supervisor

Newport

Previous retail supervisory experience would be preferred although not essential as training can be provided. Must have good customer service skills.

£6.03 per hr.

16 hrs per week over 3-4 days between 9am-6pm.

Permanent

NIW/9453. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number

Chef

Ryde

Must have experience and a Basic Food Hygiene certificate. Must be able to prepare all types of food

Exceeds National Minimum Wage.

30-40 per week, 5 days from 7, between 11am – 10pm. (hrs may be less in winter months)

Permanent

RFM/5870. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk or call 01983 276083 to speak to an adviser quoting the reference number

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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Classifieds FIA TRAINING Low price of £110 lowest price on the island. Various times and locations to suit. Starting October2009.

Please contact Zara on 07805757960 or zara@armadaprotection.co.uk

HOTEL CLEARANCE SALE Royal standard hotel in school green road Freshwater.

Furniture beds etc. on friday, saturday and sunday Tel: 07999828879

Classified Adverts with The Isle Of Wight Gazette

25 words only £5 or book 6 issues for £25

To place your ad:

By Hand: at our office 9 - 5 Mon - Friday.

By post: The Isle of Wight Gazette, Unit B18, Spithead Business Centre, Newport Road, Isle of Wight, PO36 9PH. (Cheques made payable to: i.w. Gazette ltd)

All major Credit cards accepted Or call our Sales Team on 402599 Deadline: Thursdays 12.00 pm Email: sales@iwgazette.co.uk

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CLASSIFIEDS

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FEATURE

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

29

MOTORING

RENAULT STEPS UP A LEVEL

Featuring a new, more aggressive design, increased power and a wide choice of personalisation, Clio Renaultsport 200 takes the Renaultsport favourite to the next level.

Building on the existing qualities of Clio Renault sport 197, the latest version of the brand’s best-selling model resumes its status as the most popular hot hatch in its

class and the benchmark by which all others are judged.

The impressive new look incorporates frontal aerodynamics to improve performance both on the road and on the track while the rear diffuser, normally only found on high-end sporting cars, sucks the chassis to the ground, reaffirming its racing pedigree.

Under the bonnet, it is

powered by the latest 2.0 16V engine, delivering an extremely high level of performance for the hot hatch segment. Peak power has been increased by 3hp while the low-end torque has been boosted by an impressive 20 per cent.

First, second and third gear ratios have all been shortened for punchier acceleration delivered through a manual

six-speed gearbox and powering the Clio from 0-62mph in just 6.9 seconds and on to a top speed of 141mph. Despite this, both its fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced, returning 34.4mpg in the combined cycle.

The Clio Renaultsport 200 range is also once again offered in two distinct versions: Clio Renaultsport

200 Cup – for enthusiastic drivers who are passionate about their driving, and Clio Renaultsport 200 – for those seeking a well-equipped performance car yet still with the option of the Cup chassis.

To meet customer demand even more closely, the Renault i.d. range of personalisation offers customers a wide choice of customisable options

including the addition of three new exterior colours in the form of Alien Green, Mercury and Pearlescent Liquid Yellow. In addition to the exterior, the interior can also be tailored with a new range of finishes and upholsteries with other options including the new Carminat TomTom®, the first integrated GPS navigation system.

Want to learn to ride a motorcycle or scooter?

Life’s Better On Two Wheels, national campaign ‘Get On’ is brought to you by most leading motorcycle manufacturers and Isle of Wight Motorcycles Ltd. The campaign is aimed at anyone who is eligible to hold a UK driving licence and would like to learn to ride a scooter or a motorcycle, or if you’re getting back on one after a bit of a break, you can visit Isle of Wight Motorcycles Ltd in Newport for more information or you can follow the website link on HYPERLINK “http://www.iowmc. co.uk/”www.iowmc.co.uk First step The first thing you have to do is get yourself a trainer. Isle of Wight Motorcycles Ltd recommends MOTAG as your CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) provider, based on the Island you can book your course by calling freephone 0800 652 0677 - Don’t worry if you don’t have your own bike you can hire one.

Taking your CBT On the day, Wear something suitable for riding - don’t turn up for your CBT in shorts and a t-shirt. Also avoid wearing trainers or soft shoes. A decent jacket, boots, gloves and jeans are the minimum. If you visit Isle of Wight Motorcycles Ltd in Newport they offer free advice and stock a huge range of suitable clothing, helmets and boots What the CBT involves

The course is divided into 5 sections, which you’ll be assessed on during the day.

There is no time limit, but each one must be completed before you can move on. Toward the end of the day you will spend at least two hours on the road with your instructor, with a de – brief at the end of the ride.

What you can expect: Introduction The instructor will take you through what you could expect during the course, as well as cover all the legal aspects of riding on the road.

Practical on site training This is where you’ll actually get into contact with the bike. You’ll be shown the controls and you’ll be taken through some of the basic checks that you need to do each time before riding, as well as shown how to start the bike.

Practical on site riding This is where the real fun begins! You’ll move onto an off road area and start riding.

Starting off with learning how to use the clutch to move off, if your bike is a twist-andgo, moving off smoothly, followed by some exciting things like emergency stops and turns.

Practical on road training If the instructor is happy with your progress, you’ll get a pre–road ride briefing, covering the Highway Code, how to stay visible, speed control, road signs and how to

how to ride defensively, this is to reduce the risk of driving by anticipating dangerous situations, despite adverse conditions or the mistakes of others.

Practical on road riding This is what you’ve been waiting for. You’ll be taken out on the road for a ride.

Your instructor will start you off on quieter roads and then move you onto faster, busier roads. Once your instructor feels confident that you’ll be safe when riding on your own, you’ll be issued with your CBT (DL 196 Certificate) its valid for 2 years.

For more information visit www.iowinc.co.uk

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SPORT

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

SUCCESS FOR JUNIORS A team of 13 members of the Wightlink sponsored Ryde Rowing Club’s junior squad competed at the Itchen Imperial Rowing Club Junior Regatta in Southampton.

The best performance of the day came from the Boys J13 Coxed Quad ‘A’ crew of Sam Corney, Dale Buckett, Max Reeve and Christian Lacy, with Bryony Reeve coxing, who, fresh from their second place at the South Coast Championships Junior Regatta, went one better winning with this race with comparative ease. They were chased home by the club’s ‘B’ crew of Harry Batchelor, Harvey Kirkby, Andreas Hicks and Emily Rose with Coach Graham Reeve coxing, who finished in second place.

Further second places came from Harvey Kirkby in the J12 Single Scull’s and Sam Corney in the J13 Single Sculls, where Max Reeve finished in fourth place in the final following a dead-heat in his semi-final and where Dale Buckett reached the semi-final.

Sam Corney and Dale Buckett then paired-up to compete in the J13 Double Sculls ‘A’ event for experienced Scullers, where another second place was achieved. This axchievement was repeated in the ‘B’ event for the less experienced Scullers, where Harry Batchelor and Harvey Kirkby came second with Max Reeve and Andreas Hicks and finishing in third place.

The club also had some of

their junior girls competing, with Holly Evans and Bryony Reeve finishing second in the J15 double sculls. They then joined Leona Fisk and Emily Camm with Dale Buckett coxing, to race in J15 Coxed Quad with yet another second place achieved.

Emily Rose and Lily Gray competed in the girls J12 Double Sculls reaching the semi-final.

The Ryde team of 13 juniors was the largest group the club has taken to a junior event this year, illustrating the success and continued expansion of junior activities at the club. The team included two members – Lilly Gray and Andreas Hicks who were making their racing debuts for the club.

OUT WITH A BANG

Ventnor brought the curtain down on the 2009 cricket season in glorious sunshine as they entertained Brian Gardener’s President’s XI at Steephill.

The visitors won the toss and decided to bat first.

Bashley’s Shaun Lilley fell victim to a brilliant Charlie Freeston slip catch, while former Ventnor and Shanklin man Nick Holland made just 14 as early wickets fell to Rob Snell and Marcus Toms.

Lymington’s James Lucy land Shanklin’s Andy White led the recovery for the visitors, scoring 63 and 48 respectively, to reach 168-4 from 40 overs.

Ventnor were given a fine start by the impressive Adam Hose (59) and went on to win comfortably by six wickets. Mark Price (27) and Ian Hilsum (29 not out) were the principal run scorers for the home team.

The final Sunday game of the season for Ventor ended in a three victory for the visiting Old Tauntonians & Romsey.

Adam Hose again top scored for Ventnor in a fine knock of 70 and with David Beven making 63, the home side totalled 222 from their allotted overs.

The away side successfully chased down the target with four overs remaining.

Chris Gould, Sue Keen and Julie Miller

LADIES DAY RAISES £4,000 FOR HOSPICE A ladies golf day held at Freshwater Golf Club helped raise over £4,000 for the hospice.

This year the EMH Butterfly Trophies were played in glorious conditions with John Rickard, Trustee of the Hospice, presenting the prizes but more importantly receiving a cheque for £4,404 raised by the Island’s lady golfers.

This year’s winners were Julie Miller and Chris Gould from Shanklin, who returned 41 points to head the field of 52 ladies, while second place went to home pair of Janet Hurd and Sheila Francis with 40 points.

Third and fourth places were decided

on count back, with Maggie Ankers and Janet Roberts of Cowes easing out Liz Morris and Ann Smith from Freshwater, with both pairs scoring 38 points. Nearest the pin on the third was won by Francine Cole, and Cheryl Hewins on the fourteenth.

The event was supported by the ladies sections of Freshwater, Osborne, Newport, Shanklin, Ryde, Cowes and Westridge. The trophies were donated by Kath Harding, who used to work at the Hospice.

The event is played at a different venue each year, and next year is the turn of Newport Golf Club to play host to the tournament.

The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009

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Sport

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SPORT

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RICHARD FULFILLS

RACING DREAM

By Jamie White

Wightlink Islanders regular clerk-of-the-course, Richard Lewin, fulfilled his long held dream and rode in a competitive speedway meeting at the Wave105FM stadium.

And not only did he ride in the latest meeting of the country’s top amateur speeedway organisation, the Southern Track Riders Association, but he claimed third place in the ‘Novice’ class, which gained him the ‘rider of the meeting’ award from the association’s officials.

He was certainly difficult to pass once in a points scoring position although announcer Bryn Williams joked that was probably due to those behind him not being able to see past him because of his sheer bulk.

A good sized crowd attended the event and were treated to some fine racing, with no less

than 30 races taking place in under two hours.

Another highlight of the night, Richard’s heroic efforts apart, was the final race that saw ex-league rider Robert Hollingworth, who retired from

WELLINGTON MARCH ON

Sandown and Shanklin rugby team suffered a comprehensive 16-0 defeat at the hands of Wellington College.

It was the first time the Hurries had faced their mainland counterparts, and fielded a side with an average age of just 21.

The hosts kicked off and took the lead after five minutes when some early pressure, forced the Hurries to stray offside at a ruck, giving Wellington a 3-0 lead from the penalty spot.

This gave Hurries the injection they wanted. Captain Joe Rees picked up from a scrum, and the ball was passed several times between players as the hosts retreated to their line. Richard Booth took the last pass and dived for the corner only for a defender to

tackle him bending the corner flag.

The next 15 minutes was the best period in the game for the Hurries.

Possession and pressure rugby, with the hosts making panic clearances.

But a lesson to learn, you must come away with points. As did the hosts, when soon after, from a line out, the ball was spun out and allowed them in for a converted try.

The Hurries again worked their way up field, with some strong runs from Wightlink man-of-the-match fullback Mat Jones. But to often possession was kicked away or the hosts were allowed to capitalise on errors. The hosts kicked another penalty giving a half time score of 13-0.

After the break, the play was mainly in the centre of the field. The Hurries

VENTNOR CLAIM EASY VICTORY

professional racing in 2004 having raced at Premier League level for several teams, snatch victory right on the finishing line to clinch victory in the final of the ‘Open Class’.

Ventnor travelled to Lytchett Minster and came away with a comfortable victory.

The visitors stepped up the intensity from last week’s disappointment and dominated right from the off.

The forwards gave no space or time for the Lytchett pack to take part at the break down, line out, or scrum.

The Ventnor pack dominated their opponents, driving them relentlessly

in mauls and never let them build up ahead of steam.

This enabled the skillful fly-half Marriott and his back line to cut up the midfield. In fact Marriott had a great afternoon scoring, and setting up tries for Cooper and Williams.

Berry, with one try, directed his forwards brilliantly giving orders at every moment. Riches who led from the front scored a hat-trick and

TOP PERFORMERS AT FRESHWATER

Three Stableford competitions in a row at Freshwater Golf Club resulted in some excellent scoring.

The highest points came from Myles Taylor (5 h’cap) and Peter Dawson (22) in the midweek competition, both players returning 44 points as the CSS dropped to 66.

Myles took first place in Division 1 from Chris Edmond-Smith (16) in second on 41 with third

throwing everything to break the line, but the defence could not be breached.

The hosts worked there way up field with forward rucking and after some slick passing were going over in the corner for a try when Luke Chandler, from the opposite wing, made a try saving tackle to prevent the score.

The Hurries never gave up, with Vikoma man-of-the-match captain Joe Rees losing the ball just short of the line, and Wil Baxandall and Dan Robinson trying to breach the defence in the centre of the field.

But the breakthrough never came for the visitors, and in the closing minutes the hosts made it a final score of 16-0.

Hurries are away to Brighton RFC in the National Cup this weekend.

place going to Gordon Day (15) carding 40 and pushing John Crosbie (10) in to fourth place on count back.

In Division 2 Peter Dawson’s 44 was ample to take first place with Tim Deville (24) in second on count back from Norman Cramp (28), both players returning 40 points.

Fourth place went to Frank Gregory (25) with 39.

The Saturday Stableford had 38 entries, with John

Crosbie returning another plus 40 point round to take first place in Division 1 this time off of 9 handicap.

James Sanders (7) also scored 41 points but lost out on the back nine with Steve Ryan (12) on 40.

Kev Miles had the best score of the day returning 42 points off his 15 handicap to take first place in Division 2 followed by Cliff Sanders (21) second on 39 and Gary Holmes

(16) third with 37.

On Sunday Jim Whitehead took the honours in Division 1 carding 43 points off of 8 with Malc Williams (16) and Hugh Morrison (14) finishing in second and third places respectively, both players scoring 39 points. Richard Couse (17) finished first in Division 2 with 42 points ahead of Stephen Mew (24) in second on 37 and Chris Tansley (19) third on 36.

inspired his fellow forwards Jesney and the athletic Jackson to further tries.

Ventnor are back to winning ways playing with confidence and are determined to carry on this performance this weekend, when they entertain Fareham Heathens in the Junior vase at Watcombe Bottom.

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The Gazette, Friday, October 2, 2009