IW Gazette 31

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REPORTING ISLAND NEWS

Driftwood Driftwood If you can, please make a donation to the hospice

Holly’s home

Your new look WEEKLY READ

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gazette the isle of wight

Friday September 4, 2009

WIN A TERRIFIC MEAL FOR TWO AT DRIFTWOOD, SANDOWN. SEE PAGE 22 FOR MORE DETAILS

R.I.P. LUKEY

Holly Clarke speaks out about her battle with leukemia. See page 9

Ryde ride out

Bank Holiday round-up of scooterists invading the Island for the annual rally.

See page 15

Madness at the castle Newport teenager Luke Cowan

Suggs and his Madness crew rock the grounds around Carisbrooke Castle. See pages 16 - 17

A BODY found in woodland near Luccombe has been named locally as that of

BY JASON missing teenager Luke Cowan.

KAY Police were called to Luccombe Road, near Shanklin, body was discovered close to the coastal path by a couple at about 7pm on Tuesday. The

walking with their dog.

A police spokeswoman said it is believed that the body had been there for some time.

Officers are awaiting results of a post-mortem examination; but they are not looking for anyone in connection with the death.

Inspector Kathryn Fowles from Newport police station went on to say that due to the remote location and weather conditions it was difficult to recover the body.

Continued on page 3

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The IW Gazette Contact Details Newsdesk: (01983) 409928 Fax: (01983) 404189 Email: newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk Address: The IW Gazette, Unit B18, Spithead Business Centre, Newport Road, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 9PH Display advertising: (01983) 402599 Sales manager: James Rolfe Sales: Sam Smith Sorry – the Gazette currently does not carry any classified advertising Published by: The Isle of Wight Gazette Ltd Reporters: Jamie White, Richard Collins, Penny Newnham, Peter White News Editor: Jason Kay Features Editor: Jo Macaulay Design: Colin Clarke, Dean Chick, Paul Mercer Accounts & sales administrator: Roxy Vaughan

The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

CAUGHT OUT TWO RESCUED OFF ROCKS

BY SEA

DUE to a low tide over the Bank Holiday weekend Ryde Inshore Rescue Services were called out several times by people being caught out and becoming stuck on the Sandbank.

The voluntary lifeboat service assisted 24 over the Bank Holiday weekend.

The calls ranged from marshalling a group of swimmers taking part in a swim across the Solent

from Ryde pier to Gosport, a speedboat with a fault to its engine, a sunsail yacht that stuck in the bank and another yacht that had ran aground.

The lifeboat stations that rely on donations have put out their own mayday for used paperbacks to help raise much-needed funds.

If you can help please contact the station on 01983 564564.

THE SANDOWN & Shanklin lifeboat and Bembridge Coastguard raced to the rescue of two men who got into difficulties in a kayak near Yaverland.

The alarm was raised after the family of the men, both aged 35, had not been seen for two hours after setting off from Yaverland beach on Sunday.

Sandown and Shanklin lifeboat coxswain Mark Birch said: “We started our search from Yaverland and around Culver and found them washed ashore at the end of

Culver.

“With the strong winds of force 6 to 7 we manoeuvred our vessel close in and retrieved one of the casualties and the kayak. The other man climbed the rocks and made his way to Yaverland and was met by the Bembridge coastguard team. Both men were cold but well.”

Mr. Birch added: “These guys were very lucky. One had capsized and filled his kayak with water, which was then very hard to manoeuvre.

He then drifted and was blown on to Culver Cliffs.”

Issue 31 September 4 2009 Supporting the Earl Mountbatten Hospice through your generous donations when you pick up your free copy

BUS DRIVERS TAKE ACTION BUS DRIVERS working for Southern Vectis have gone on strike in a bid to get a pay rise after the company announced it would freezing wage increases this year.

Several workers set up picket lines at bus stations in Ryde and Newport, and are planning further strikes for September 12 and 13.

Peter Gale regional spokesman for the National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) said: “We are striking for a pay rise. Their profits are up as are their passenger numbers, and the company have imposed a wage freeze this year. Southern Vectis are making money and we just want our share.

“There are a lots of drivers who have walked out and we hope that a lot more will join us. Passengers are going to be put at risk because the driver won’t know the routes that well and may only been taken around once. I wouldn’t like to be travelling on them while the strike was going on.”

Peter admitted that creating the picket lines at the bus stations was the last resort because of the disruption it would cause.

“It’s always the last resort to go out on strike. We didn’t want to make the passengers suffer, but this is where we are now.

“We’re not after a 15 per cent rise,

we just want some kind of increase.

Southern Vectis just pluck figures out of the air. We are asking for a reasonable pay rise, and we want them to make us an offer so that we can than take this to our members and see what they think,” said Peter.

There are further demonstrations planned for next week (September 12 and 13), to coincide with the Bestival weekend.

“We are hoping not to do this, and I am available to talk. By striking at the weekend it puts added pressure on the management to solve the problem,” said Peter.

RMT general secretary Bob Crow added: “Southern Vectis is treating it workers with complete contempt and RMT is proud that they have stood up and said loudly and clearly that they will not take this attack on their living conditions.

“An attempt to impose a pay freeze is a real slap in the face to the Southern Vectis staff after all the effort they put in. It is our members who are pulling out all the stops, doing more with less staff and this is their reward.

“The company is making big profits but is using fear over job losses and the recession to try and smuggle in a pay freeze and RMT members have shown that they will not be bullied.”

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

FAMILY MOURN LOSS OF LUKE

BY JO MACAULAY GRIEVING mother Michelle Knight, spoke of her anguish after the body of her son was found in dense undergrowth near Luccombe. The family had co-ordinated a high profile campaign to find the youngster who was a loving son and brother.

Teenager, Luke Cowan was found hanging, near to the cliff edge, exactly 11 weeks since he disappeared from home on June 16. His mother, Michelle, is blaming the legal high ‘Space E’ for contributing to his death. Luke, who was 17 when he disappeared, was acting totally out of character after a weekend at the Isle of Wight Pop Festival, according to Michelle.

“He wouldn’t have been found with a bible if he’d been in his right mind,” said Michelle. A note with the body spoke of an encounter with an angel and his intention to join them.

Although the body has not been formally identified, an order of service for Luke’s uncle’s funeral, Sam Cowan, was found with him. But Michelle does not think that it was just his Uncle Sam’s death, from pneumonia at the age of 44 just two weeks before, that had which pushed Luke over the edge.

“I think the legal herbal highs finished him off,” said Michelle. “His friend told me and the police that Luke had taken ‘Space E’. I think it’s terrible that so many people can buy it. I definitely think it contributed towards his death.”

His sister Chantelle agreed: “I think it’s a shame that so many people can buy it,” she said.

Luke was due to start a plumbing course at college in September and was a keen DJ. “He was a hard worker and he was good with his hands,” said Michelle. “Plumbing was what he really wanted to do. He was a real joker and he made everyone laugh. He always had a smile even when he was down.”

Before leaving he made his bed neatly and put his watch, phone and a necklace into a drawer.

The last confirmed sighting of Luke was taken by CCTV and showed him taking a bus to Sandown on the afternoon of June 16. “He was smiling on the bus, and as he got off he was looking at the ground and smiling,” said Michelle. “It was not like him at all.”

Luke was seen later the same evening at Chicago Rock in Newport with two women and two men at 10pm. There was an unconfirmed sighting of Luke at approximately 1.40pm on Tuesday, June 23, sitting at the Southern Vectis bus station in Landguard Road in Shanklin.

Other mothers on the Island have voiced concern about ‘Space E’, which was available at local outlets before a

recent police raid. As it is not yet illegal there are no restrictions on its sale, although many festivals and gatherings have banned it. Individuals are also buying it from internet sites.

The packet clearly states “Not for Human Consumption” and is sold as “exotic plant feeder” with directions for use: “Feeds four to five large plants.

For smaller fauna use less.

Respect your plants and do not overfeed. Water well after application.” The active ingredients are listed as 4-Methlmethcathinone.

When asked to comment on the affects of the drug Dr Krishna at the Cardiff Centre of the NPIS (National Poisons Information Service) commented: “Although very little is known regarding the toxicity of Mephedrone it may cause similar effects to amphetamines. In addition, there is very little information available regarding the psychiatric effects of Mephedrone use. However, amphetamine use has been linked to agitation, delusions, hallucinations, paranoia and aggressive behaviour. Paranoid psychosis from chronic amphetamine abuse has also been reported.”

A mother in Newport spoke of her alarm after her son arrived home under its influence. “It’s worse than street drugs, it’s altering your metabolism,” she claimed. “My son had a psychotic episode and I’ve never seen anyone like it. I felt like he might not come back (from his paranoid state),” she explained.

“It’s not plant food – it’s nothing to do with plant food. My son lost 1 ½ stones in weight over a couple of months.

It took him quite a while to get the balance of his mind back too.”

Michelle did say that she had thought Luke was no longer alive from very early on.

“Both Chantelle (Luke’s sister) and myself had thought about planning his funeral, although we didn’t speak about it until today,” said Michelle. “When I hadn’t heard from him the next day I knew something had happened. We just wanted Luke back – dead or alive we wanted him back.

“Luke wasn’t right before he went away,” she continued. “Different things affect people in different ways but Luke was affected really badly and I don’t think they (legal highs) should be allowed to be sold.”

Luke put on old clothes before he left and “seemed as if he had something to do,” according to Michelle. “When Luke

disappeared Lawrence (Luke’s younger brother) and I went into his room quite late at night and at the end of the bed was a broken cross. I picked it up and then Lawrence took it and he said, “I feel all funny – we need to search the room for a note,” and I stood on Luke’s

Luke’s mother Michelle Knight

sofa and put my hand up under a coat and pulled out a note. “Love you all” was written on it with three big kisses, in a blue felt pen on purple paper. And then I walked into the kitchen and saw the blue felt tip pen. And I just knew.

“I had been waiting for that knock on the door and only five minutes before the police arrived I said “He’s dead, Luke’s dead,” said Michelle. “I feel the whole system failed Luke, even from school, but I think it was what Luke had taken that drove him to suicide.”

A Hampshire police spokesman refused to confirm the body was that of Luke but said the teenager’s family were soon told of the discovery.

He said: “Specialist officers were called in to remove the body and the coroner has been informed. At this stage, officers are keeping an open mind but the death does not appear to be suspicious.”

Police took Michelle and her family to the spot where Luke was found yesterday (Thursday 3) to see the tree where he died and to leave flowers.

Michelle left a moving and loving tribute to her son. It concluded: “Your loving smile made you.

I will always hold the memory with me forever. Rest in Peace Lukey.”

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

REVEREND’S WIFE CAN’T SEE THE LIGHT ENERGY saving bulbs maybe a good idea for saving the planet but Mrs. Brenda Ryder cannot be in their light because of her skin condition, an extreme form of Lupus. And she’s not alone – apparently up to 20 per cent of the population are affected by photosensitivity in some form and the new bulbs are ‘too blue’ for many sufferers.

Brenda, 56, cannot go out in the light because she comes out in a rash, gets icy cold and becomes dizzy and her joints become painful. Traditional light bulbs haven’t been a problem for her as long as she doesn’t sit too close to them, but the new bulbs have been causing her to acquire a reddish-purple rash on her skin and “continuous vomiting”, which can last for several weeks, making her “completely dependent” on her husband the Rev John Ryder, 54.

From September 1, the old-fashioned 100 watt incandescent light bulb are being phased out as part of a European Union drive to curb climate change and save on energy bills. Countries across the EU will start the mandatory phase-out of 100W and frosted incandescent light bulbs in favour of energy-efficient Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) following a voluntary phase, which started in 2007.

Rev John Ryder has stockpiled many of the old light bulbs and Brenda is pictured with some of their stash. “I became very ill in 1997 and I was told about daylight, and fluorescent light affects me very badly including the new light bulbs,” said Brenda. “Light has become a problem in itself, but Lupus sufferers have a problem with the new bulbs. It’s the blue light that harms us but older light bulbs are more orangeyyellow,” she explained.

In the house in Godshill that she shares with her husband Rev John

Ryder, the windows are all covered with a yellow film to prevent blue light from entering and the curtains are drawn in the sitting room, with a dimmed light bulb offering a little illumination.

Rev Ryder has to have a SAD light on in his office to top up on ‘blue light’ or he might begin to suffer with SAD (Seasonally Affected Disorder).

The new bulbs use up to 80% less electricity than standard bulbs, could cut a home’s annual energy bill by up to £37 and save 135kg of CO2 each year, according to the Energy Saving Trust.

David Price, of Spectrum, an alliance of charities working with people with light-sensitive health conditions, said the Government was “disregarding” public concerns as it took the lead in European efforts to cut down on energy-inefficient products.

“Health is important and it should come over anything else, but they’re not looking after ours,” he said. “They’re not listening to the public and aren’t talking to the actual sufferers.”

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defray) said it was working closely with organisations representing the 36,000 people in the UK who have a “special health interest” and only “a small percentage” of these would need specialist bulbs.

The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) said it would be a “real worry” if no exceptions were being made for people such as Mrs. Ryder.

Brenda hopes that the old style light bulbs may be available by prescription.

“I am housebound as it is, and the new bulbs would make my life even more difficult,” said Brenda who has to watch the television from 15 yards away. “We feel they shouldn’t withdraw these and we have the support of the British Association of Dermatologists.

PATHWAY PAVED WITH GOLD

WORK on a new footway costing £30,000 is underway in Freshwater, after calls from the local parish council and county councillor.

The footway in Stroud Road will provide a link from the existing footway in Jubilee Close to the one in Stroud Rd. The footway under construction will be 1.6m wide and provide a link to the town and a safer route to the local school.

The work is part of the council’s accessibility programme, which includes a number of schemes to improve facilities for pedestrians and cyclists in order to aid accessibility to local amenities and services across the Island.

Work has already begun on the project, which has been scheduled to take about five weeks to complete Cllr Edward Giles, IW council cabinet member for the environment and transport said: “This scheme is one of many that the council is undertaking

to improve pedestrian access alongside our highways.

“We feel it is important to continue investing ahead of the planned PFI programme, which will see all of the Island’s roads and footways improved.”

September 4, 2009

The IW Gazette

COUNCIL BLUNDER

A MOTHER is demanding to know how she was mistakenly given full, personal details of two children and their parents because of a clerical blunder at an Island Leisure Centre.

Kerriann Wilson, 32, who regularly visits the Island and has a property in Bembridge, described her shock and horror when she went to collect an application form for a summer activity at the IW council-run Heights Leisure Centre, Sandown, only to discover it had already been filled out by another family.

Amazingly, the same error occurred again when Kerriann’s mother later returned to the Heights for another form.

Kerriann explained: “I use the Heights Leisure Centre a lot, so I went to pick up a form to fill in so that my son Jason could participate in an activity session called ‘Art Splat’. They asked us to fill our child’s details, our details, our home address, phone numbers, place of work and other private information.

That wasn’t a problem.

“So I picked up the forms from the reception and just put them in my bag and left. It was only when I got home and went to fill it in that I realised that it had already been completed by someone else.

“There were names, addresses, doctors, next of kin, parent’s work places and contact numbers, and other information for someone else and their child.

BY JAMIE WHITE There was even a section asking ‘Is there anything else we should know about your child’, and an answer was written ‘He talks a lot!’

“I was horrified and shocked. This information could have been picked by absolutely anybody, and it could have been my son’s and my details that were given out.”

Kerriann continued: “My son didn’t actually attend the course in the end, because we all fell seriously ill, so we left it for a few weeks. Obviously Jason became quite upset that he didn’t attend the activity, so we looked at other courses he could on.

This time my mother went in to collect an application form, and we discovered that had also been completed by a family.”

Kerriann’s mother Tricia Wilson, said: “I just could not believe it when I picked up another form. Again I just put it in my bag without looking and when I got back I had another form with another child’s details on. I was just totally shocked.

“The majority of parents leave their children on the courses with instructors at the leisure centre. They do activities inside and also play outside.

In theory anyone with a child’s details

Kerriann, Jason and Tricia with the filled-in forms

could have walked by or gone in to the leisure centre and called their name and then told the instructor they were there to collect them. It is a terrifying thought.

“I had my identity stolen, and I know how awful that is. There is enough information on these forms for someone to copy their identity as well.”

GLOOMY OUTLOOK FOR SUNSHINE RADIO

THE ISLAND’S hospital radio station, Sunshine Radio is under threat of closure, after it was revealed that increasing financial pressures could force the station to go off air permanently.

With funds dwindling and the equipment needing to be constantly renewed, the station has said that it can only cover their overheads for the next eight months.

All members of the St Mary’s Hospital based station are volunteers, and donate a lot of time and effort to the station, which has been running for 37 years.

Volunteers will be out raising money for the station in an attempt to keep it running, on the evening of Friday September 4, as well as other planned events including Halloween and

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Christmas over the next few months.

Pat Norris, programme controller for Sunshine Radio, said: “The need to spend time in hospital can happen not only to ourselves but to our family and friends too. When it does happen, it can be a traumatic experience for the bravest of us.

“Our Island hospital radio has tried to provide a vital therapeutic and caring service to our hospital patient listeners, helping them overcome the tensions and anxieties they naturally feel at such a time.

“Although away from relatives and friends, many patients have told us we have made them feel part of a hospital family. We hope very much that our fellow Islanders will help us continue here at St Mary’s by supporting

our fundraising events.”

Presenter, Samantha Rickman, added: “I have been a presenter for Sunshine Radio for well over a year now, it gives me great satisfaction and is so rewarding.

If we can make just one patient’s time in hospital a little bit easier then we are doing exactly what we hoped to.

“Being in hospital is a difficult time for everyone and patients can spend a lot of time on their own. Our free radio station gives an eclectic mix of programmes and music to cater to patients and bring a little sunshine to their bedside.”

For any further information or if you feel you can help then can contact Samantha Rickman on 07825 566161 or email samantha.rickman@hotmail. co.uk

In response to the incident, the IW Council Leisure Facilities Operations Manager, Alex Minns, said: “The council is aware of an isolated incident several weeks ago at The Heights involving an application form that was handed out by a staff member in error.

Since the incident, systems have been tightened.”

MERRY GO ROUND

A FAULTY road sign has been causing holidaymakers and residents to go around in circles. The signpost, which is located at Beacon Alley near Ventnor has been sending driver in the wrong direction due to it swinging around in the wind.

One motorist who fell victim to the revolving signpost, said: “As I approached the sign, I was looking which way I needed to go towards Whitwell.

But then it suddenly swung

around to send me back in the direction of Godshill, which is where I had just come from. It was confusing to say the least!”

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

CELEBRITY HOUSE SWAP?

Atomic Kitten singer, Liz McClarnon, was on the Island over the Bank Holiday weekend enjoying some time away from her hectic schedule.

But she did manage to squeeze in some house hunting.

The talented female star, who won Celebrity Masterchef 2008, spent a few days on the Island, and was spotted in Holliers Hotel in Shanklin enjoying an evening out, after viewing several properties, thought to be in Cowes.

The glamorous 28-yearold, who’s next solo single is out in November, posted comments on her facebook page, and

it seems she is already getting to grips with the ways of the Island.

“I’m just leaving the Isle of Wight after a lovely weekend here! Everyone is so nice and I think I may have found a little place to buy. Well it’s not little actually, it’s Phenom!

“But it’s so funny, the gossip here spreads so fast! Someone came up to me yesterday and said, ‘I knew it was you, I got told you were here.’ And I was like...erm, huh? Too funny!”

So keep an eye out for any new celebrity neighbours that might be moving into your street in the near future.

Liz McClarnon (pink shirt) who was on the Island house hunting

SPLASH AND GRAB

IN THE early hours of Saturday August 29 thieves broke one of the large glass windows to Ocean World in Cowes High Street and stole clothing to the value of around £4,500.

“It’s just very annoying and sadly they stole everything that we’d prepared for the powerboat weekend, T shirts, expensive jackets, everything,” said owner Paul Bertie.

“The interesting thing was that the T shirts were printed in black and red on white, and we then printed more but in different colours. So if anyone is offered any clothing in these colours they ought to know it was from this robbery.”

The window will cost another £1,200 to repair as it is a particular shape that has to be made specially.

Luckily the company had a good weekend at the European Dressage championships where they sell equine themed merchandising.

“We did triple what we thought we would,” said Mr Bertie. “Although all of our yachting and boating events have been down on previous years, all of our equestrian merchandising has been up on previous years.”

The weekend helped to soften the financial blow of the robbery, which has cost the company nearly £6,000. If anyone is offered a powerboat weekend T shirt in black and red on white they should contact the police.

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

FRAUDSTERS ARE STILL ON THE PROWL

THE IW COUNCIL’S Trading Standards service is reminding businesses on the Island to still be aware of fraudsters.

The reminder comes after a number of local businesses reported receiving an email from a man claiming to be from HM Revenue and Customs, stating they are entitled to a tax refund of around £330 and asking for a form to be filled in.

There have also been reports of residents also receiving similar emails to their personal inboxes.

The form also asks for bank card details to be provided so money can

be ‘refunded’ back, and the council has warned that legitimate organisations would never ask for personal bank details via email or phone.

IW council senior fair trading officer, Julie Woodhouse, said: “These types of emails are a scam that are only designed to try and obtain your personal bank details.

They are very similar to so-called ‘phishing emails’ purporting to be from banks which also ask for your personal details.

“Any legitimate organisation whether that be banks, a government

department like HM Revenue & Customs or competition organisers would never ask for your personal banking details and under no circumstances should you ever give them out.

“If you do feel you are being targeted, please send us any emails you have so we can work together with our partners to continue cracking down on these scams.”

IW council Trading Standards can be contacted on 821000 or by emailing them at trading.standards@iow. gov.uk

CARS DAMAGED IN E.COWES POLICE ARE making a fresh appeal for information after it’s alleged a number of parked vehicles had number plates damaged or stolen in East Cowes.

The suspects are believed to be a group of people who walked along Clarence Road from the direction of York Avenue, and into Britannia Way, shortly before 2am on Tuesday August 4.

The East Cowes Safer Neighbourhoods Team

carried out house-tohouse enquiries in the area during the first week of August, and police would like to thank the community for their assistance. However, officers remain keen to hear from residents in Clarence Road and Britannia Way who may have further information.

These crimes were reported during the Cowes Week sailing regatta so it’s possible the area would have

been busier with both residents and visitors who may have noticed people acting suspiciously. Tackling anti-social behaviour is the force’s top priority this summer so police would encourage anyone with information to contact officers.

Information can be given anonymously by calling call the Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or the police on 0845 045 4545 or 101

SMASH CLOSES ROAD

EMERGENCY services closed Great Preston Road in Ryde for an hour on Friday after two cars had collided.

The road was closed whilst the fire service cut the roof off one of the vehicle, after the elderly driver and passenger complained of neck and back pains. Police

spokesman Duncan Smith said: “A Renault Megane collided with a Skoda Fabia.

“The man and woman from the Ryde area both received whiplash injuries and were taken by land ambulance to St Mary’s hospital. The driver Renault was unhurt.”

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

ASH TO ROCK VENTNOR IRISH rockers Ash will be playing Ventnor Wintergardens on November 17. Embarking on an A to Z tour to promote their mould-breaking A to Z singles collection, the 26 date UK tour includes a number of the country’s more remote live music areas.

Initially the band thought that Ventnor was Zentnor, according to John Curd who is promoting the whole tour - view it at www. ilikemusic.com. Ventnor

now fits the V slot, although it could have doubled for W as well.

In a bold move Ash have vowed to never release another rock album, and are releasing 26 singles, each with a corresponding letter, at two weekly intervals beginning with the release of True Love 1980 on October 12. “The rock album is dead. Its power has long gone,” said the lead singer Tim Wheeler.

Formed in 1992 the band have been inspired

by classic albums from the Beatles, David Bowie and Nirvana.

Home Grown presents Ash at Ventnor Winter Gardens, Tuesday November 17

Doors 7pm. Tickets £16.50 adv. 14+ show (under 18s to be accompanied by an adult over 21). Box Office: 857581 for in-person and telephone bookings or visit www.seetickets.com for online and telephone bookings

JAZZIE B RETURNS TO BESTIVAL JAZZIE B was looking forward to returning to the Bestival next weekend when we spoke to him.

Jazzie will be DJing in the Rizla Arena as part of the Invisible Players tour, but he was keen to stress that he’ll be bringing his vinyl.

“To me the serato thing, there doesn’t seem to be a necessity for it.

I don’t get that thing of having to bring your whole record collection on a computer,” said Jazzie.

Earlier this year Jazzie was awarded an OBE for his services to music. “I know Charlie (Prince Charles) very well, I’ve run the Princes’ Trust for two years in London,” said Jazzie. “So the ceremony was a little bit more friendly, but I was expecting the Queen. But I was invited to the Palace to meet her and had a great discussion about the Caribbean. I reside in Antigua a lot.”

Jazzie has his own festival Back II Life in Antigua, which he has run since 2004 and is also kept busy with the Rising Tide Project in Hackney’s Ocean Rooms, who run musical workshops where he helps out on the production side. He is also involved with

Midi Workshops in South London where he helps Wozzy Brewster to look after kids from the local community. “It’s something I enjoy doing.

The whole thing is about encouraging some of the artists,” said Jazzie. “You see the kids when they first start out, how timid

they are, some of the guys now have actually been on tour in different countries and stuff like that, it’s an amazing facility.”

Soul II Soul Productions, Jazzie’s production company, also keeps him busy along with his DJing live and on Radio London, being heard in Britain and worldwide.

And next weekend he will be leaving the North Island to come and visit the Bestival once more.

“I grew up in the 70s and most of us were exposed to such fantastic

music through that era,” he remembered.

“Recording James Brown’s last album – that was the highlight of my career. And working with Fela Kuti two years before he died,” he added.

Playing from a unique musical van, a recreation of the original Rizla touring van of the 1920’s, The Invisible Players will play spontaneous and inspiring sets from a diverse record collection. There are no prepared set lists, just pure improvisation and the creation of a unique vibe in the Rizla Arena.

The sound could vary from Dub, Electro, Dancehall, Funk, Hip Hop, Breakbeat to Northern Soul and Acid House – the roots of popular music as we know it.

In the 1920’s, Rizla toured the UK with a musical van hosting impromptu parties and playing tunes to the masses. As festival pioneers and arguably the originators of pop up raves, Rizla and the van grew in popularity and achieved critical acclaim in local media wherever it travelled For more information on Jazzie B check www. soul2soul.co.uk

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

Hospice News

Hospice Fundraising: Telephone - 528989 Hospice launches ‘Hospice Go Yellow Day’ 2009 Friday October 9

HOLLY COMES HOME

At the Donkey Sanctuary last weekend the Gazette spoke to Cherryl and Holly Clarke (15) about Holly’s recent health scare. Three weeks ago a life changing experience occurred for Holly Clarke when she was diagnosed with Leukemia.

Holly felt unwell and Cherryl thought she had caught the Swine Flu that she had been suffering with herself. But after taking blood tests, doctors informed the stunned family that Holly had Leukemia and she was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital “I had to spend two weeks in Southampton General Hospital where they had to draw fluid from my spine. The treatment that I am on is going to last two years. The treatment of radiotherapy getting is progressively stronger and stronger over time and the drug that I am having to take makes me really tired and I feel weak sometime,” said Holly.

“It was really good to be able to arrive in a limo today to help draw out the ticket for the raffle winner though,” she added.

“I’m just glad that I was strong enough.”

The leukemia had been causing Holly to find it hard to breath and had turned her blood to jelly. “I’m going to be restricted

but I want to try and lead a normal life,” said Holly.

“I know the tiredness and the sickness may put a strain on Holly,” said Cherryl. “It has put us under a lot a pressure and we could not have managed if everyone hadn’t rallied round to help us because we have got such a big enterprise.

“Holly is going to need a lot of care. We are planning ahead as best we can. There is a lot going on at the moment and there are lots of changes with the treatment program that Holly is on.”

“We have to take every day at it comes,” said Holly. “It’s effected my day to day routine a lot because I have to get up and take my tablets my temperature.

I have to very careful of what I eat and where I go because I now have a weak immune system.

“I am about to start my exams but it is going to affect school and my school work, but they send teacher in to teach which will help. School has said that they will really help us where they can. The treatment will also effect my concentration.

“I didn’t even know that I had leukemia. I felt unwell and my mum kept telling me to go to the doctors. I went and had a blood test and then at about teatime we got a call. The doctor said

that they had been trying to call since two in the afternoon. Forty minutes later we were down at St Mary’s and the doctors didn’t realise how badly ill I was. There was a helicopter was waiting to fly me to Southampton.”

Mum Cherryl was way in London at a meeting when Holly was rushed over to Southampton. “All I kept getting was phone calls saying that Holly had been put in a helicopter and she was sick. I had to rush back from London. I was so worried and I didn’t know what to expect.

“I was feeling as a parent that I should have known that it was more serious. Holly needs to take things easy now.” The chemo is fed via drip bag for an hour. “I have to go over to the mainland to have it, and I am also taking lots of tablets as well, to keep me stable,” said Holly.

“I have spine fluid taken out every week and have chemo put directly into my spine to stop the leukemia from spreading.

I’m going to be strong on this.

I’m not allowed to do anything with the donkeys because of the risk of infection. I am keeping positive about the treatment because I want it to work. If it doesn’t work I will have to have a bone marrow transplant. I am just hoping that it’s not going to go that far.”

THE ISLAND’S hospice has launched its brand new fundraiser “Hospice Go Yellow Day” which this year is on Friday October 9th to coincide with the week of World Hospice Day. The Hospice has fundraising packs ready right now for everyone who wants to do some yellow fundraising and the Hospice is keen that this is seen as putting the “fun” into fundraising.

You could decide to get your friends to sponsor you to dress up as your favourite yellow TV character or you could make an entirely yellow packed lunch for your children and donate £1.

Maybe you’d like to have a look in our charity shops and put together a crazy yellow outfit. It really is up to you.

‘Hospice Go Yellow Day’ certificate’s of support now on sale THE HOSPICE is proud to announce that personalised Certificates of Support for Hospice Go Yellow Day are now on sale for £10 including p&p. The certificates can be displayed in any window and shows that a family, business, group, church or anyone at all is supporting the Hospice.

Certificates can be ordered by using the form in the fundraising packs or by calling the fundraising office on 528989. The name of an individual or group can be put on each certificate.

Schools & ‘Hospice Go Yellow Day’ ALL Island schools have been sent their own Schools

Fundraising packs including details of The Big Yellow Art Project. The Hospice is asking teachers and students to produce a piece of art that represents how the school feels about the Hospice.

It could be a painting, a sculpture, a poetry wall – anything at all in fact. The Hospice is asking that the art is put on display at the school on Friday October 9th with a collecting tin. In the pack schools will also find lots of other suggestions about how schools can have fun and do some fundraising. If you have school age children don’t forget to encourage their school to become involved – the more the merrier.

Big Yellow Business Competition IF YOU work for a business on the Island please ring in on 528989 and ask for your free fundraising pack.

There is a chance for every business that does some fundraising to be entered into a competition to win £1000 of on air advertising at Isle of Wight radio – the hospice is looking for the most imaginative fundraising idea. Just tell us what you will be doing to raise money on the form in your pack and return it to the Hospice.

Fundraising Packs available free for anyone IF YOU would like a fundraising pack or if you could display a poster promoting Hospice Go Yellow Day please give the Hospice a call on 528989.

From everyone here at the Island’s Hospice have fun and go yellow on Friday October 9th.

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September 4, 2009

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

ST. HELENS CARNIVAL ONE of the shortest routes in the IW carnival diary, although it circumnavigates one of the largest village greens in the country, St Helens carnival brought hundreds of people out to line the streets on Bank Holiday Monday.

Beginning with a special delivery from Postman and his Cat, the hot Bank Holiday Monday moved into a balmy summer evening as the procession made its way around the village green.

“It was a good night. One of the best we’ve seen in years,” said event organiser Chris Drewery. “It was really nice to see the village people supporting us, particularly lots of people from the mainland who were taking part.”

Have you got a story for the Gazette?

Call our newsdesk now on 01983 409928

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

STEAMY WEEKENDER THE 35TH ANNUAL Steam Railway show at Haven Street attracted scores of visitors over the Bank Holiday weekend.

There was plenty to see and do at the popular attraction, including a demonstration by Bob Hogg and his sheepdogs. There was also a re-enactment of a medieval battle by The Knights of the Crusade combat group.

The show had a

fairground with a hall of mirrors and a shooting gallery and an organ, and with the vintage car show with an array of classic and vintage cars, many of which date back to the last century, also impressing visitors. The real ale bar gave punters a chance to sample some of the many real ales available on the Island.

There were military vehicles from over the last 50 years, along with other tents, marquees

and food areas.

A steam train service also ran, which left Smallbrook Junction, before stopping at Haven Street and Wootton stations, giving people a chance to enjoy the real steam railway experience.

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DONKEY CONGA

THE GRAND Donkey Day(s) Out, at Wroxall’s Donkey Sanctuary, proved a hit not only with the visitors but with the donkeys too.

The two-day extravaganza had a twist in its donkey tail this year after sanctuary manager Cherryl wrote the donkey conga.

The cheesy treat went down a storm with the visitors, who joined in on the stage and formed a conga line.

Despite a slow day on Sunday, because of the weather, kind hearted donkey and-music loving supporters helped

raise over £3000 for the charity. In addition £8,000 was raised with the Grand Summer Raffle that was drawn on Monday by Cherryl’s daughter Holly who had just returned from hospital.

The Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary was started in 1987 by Charlie and Cherryl Clarke after Charlie brought home a donkey called Dylan, and the rest is history. The centre, which now has over 100 donkeys, cares for animals in distress or those in need of care and attention and offers a safe and permanent home for all their charges.

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THE BANK Holiday weekend saw the return of thousands of scooterists to the Island, with riders travelling from all over europe.

The weekend, which is thought to be the biggest scooter gathering in the UK, has been popular with scooterists for several years.

Many of the scooter lovers camped out at Smallbrook Stadium and enjoyed a range of events that took place over the 3-day spectacle, culminating with the Madness concert at Carisbrooke.

Eddie Harris from Southsea has been coming to the Island for 24 years to enjoy the rally.

September 4, 2009

“I have been coming over since I was 16 years old and I love it. I always attend the rally, and I love all the Motown and soul music, it’s now just a part of me.”

“I refuse to paint my scooter though, because I think the unpainted free rust style is the look that people are after.”

Josh Coombes, from Ryde, also joined in the fun at the scooter rally. His mum, Sara, said: “We love the weekend. It has been great and Josh has been on other peoples bikes and had photographs taken. I think he’s still a bit young to do the ride out but I’m sure he would love it.”

Chris Mott, who has been

September 4, 2009

The IW Gazette

RYDE RIDE OUT TO ARRETON AND BEYOND

riding for seven years, got involved in scooters with the help from his father. “I suppose it was my dad that pushed me into it. I have been over to the Island every year for the past four years.

“My dad appeared in the Mod book so I thought that I would put the picture of him on the side of my bike.”

IW resident, Tony Williams, from Haylands, regularly attends the rally and has called on the council to help the riders out.

“It’s an accident just waiting to happen and

someone is going to get hurt. There are too many cars coming through whilst the scooters are trying to go for a ride out. It has got bigger and bigger.

The council needs to sit down with the organisers and sort something out.

“We are a holiday Island and we should be welcoming these people. I wouldn’t have a problem with the council spending money on making this safer. It’s good for shops and businesses, and I and many others really look forward to the event taking place.”

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September 4, 2009

MADNESS ARE KINGS

the note we’d given him, asking Luke Cowan to contact his Mum or the police and read it to the somewhat stunned crowd.

Then they YOU’VE got to hand it to rocketed back Madness, they can still get into the set and the crowd rocking, bopping it was absolutely and generally having the blinding. Maybe most fantastic time. They it was the sombre are the most consummate of note at the performers, they’re funny and beginning, maybe they’re witty and they really we were all thinking know their stuff. how lucky we were to And Suggs is fantastic, have our families or maybe a really nice bloke and a it was just Madness’s spell – master of ceremonies to beat they were, after all, on a high all others. Resplendent in a after headlining at Rock en sparkly silver sequined suit Seine where Oasis did not with matching bowler hat, he appear due to their recent took to the stage like a duck to split. water – pardon the pun but it Suggs made several was getting pretty wet by the references to Oasis, time Madness burst into view. dedicating a couple Behind the guys an illumiof numbers to nated back screen spelt out them. He also ‘Madness’ in an array of white made a specific lights on a black background, dedication to and most of the audience were the promoter dressed in a combination of of Summer black and white with some Madness. “I don’t amazing costumes. There know if you know were far too many fezzes’ John Curd, but he to mention – Suggs had a put all of this on,” said penchant for a red fez back in Suggs. “And he put us on in the day.

Camden in the early days, Launching into the set the when we were unknown, and guys seemed a little phased I’d like to dedicate this song to begin with and at one to him,” and his next words point Woody, the drummer, were, “There is a man…” from wandered down to Suggs “Bed and Breakfast man.” with something to say. “We’re Songs from the recent about to have a fight up here, Liberty of Norton we’re having some technical Folgate were just difficulties,” announced Suggs as good as earlier – apparently there was some numbers too. interference on the radio mics. “The album Then he took from his pocket can be found in

BY JO MACAULAY

September 4, 2009

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OF THE CASTLE...

bargain bins nationwide,” said Suggs somewhat self depreciatingly. That is what is so nice about this bloke – he’s an ordinary guy, he’s up for a laugh, and he connects with the audience.

Everyone loves Suggs.

Towards the end of the set, the whole crowd were on their feet, jumping up and down in true ska fashion with arms punching the air. “Madness, they call it Madness,” could hardly be heard above the singing of the crowd near to the stage.

For their encore, the final number “Last Boat Along the River Nile’ had everyone dancing in time, with those Egyptian moves included, and it made an absolutely blinding finale with everyone left happy and satisfied as they made their way toward the exits.

It could have been less wet, but it couldn’t have been better.

WITH A FEW OTHER RASCALS

SAWDUST CAESARS, London’s top power mod group were first on stage followed by Gentleman’s Dub Club; a popular choice for the ska fans with their chilled out style.

Geno Washington and the Ram Jam Band were in fine form.

In between acts Jerry Dammers, founder of The Specials, was spinning an eclectic collection of singles, which also went down extremely well. Jerry’s parents apparently used to have an ice cream parlour on the Island when Jerry was a lad – we hope to find out more about this later.

Kid Creole was the consummate entertainer he always was, and is, with

three stunning coconuts in Flinstone style bikini outfits.

“These are not the original Coconuts, these are the children of the original Coconuts,” said the Kid before launching into the 1982 number “I’m a Wonderful Thing Baby.”

Taking a couple of changes to his brightly coloured zoot suits, August Darnell seemed to have hardly aged since “Annie, I’m Not Your Daddy” raged through the 1980s charts.

THUMBS UP FOR HOME GROWN

TOWARDS the end of the clear up operation at Carisbrooke Fields, promoter John Curd was pleased with how the event had panned out although he wished that the weather could have been as good as it was on Bank Holiday Monday.

“There were a couple of small things that we could have done better, but on the whole it went very well and we’ll learn from our mistakes,” said John on Tuesday as the final

pieces of the stage were being dismantled.

One of the small things was the ramp, which straddled the hedges and footpath running across the two main fields.

Although all the ramps were passed by Health and Safety, they had been asked to rebuild this structure. It then began to come apart just as the gates were about to open, but emergency work saved the day.

Some of the local residents,

who had previously complained, had turned up with cakes and breakfasts for the production crew as they built the event and only two complaints were received on the day.

The event shut at exactly 10.30. “Madness had to cut a number from their encore to accommodate the licencing demands – we didn’t want to over run,” said John Marsh of Homegrown Events. “We kept within the 80db to 85db

level stipulated and we had an independent bloke monitering it,” said John.

“We hired some hippy trippy guys to clean up afterwards and they did a fantastic job,” said John. “And Stewart (Dungey, owner of the farm) is a beautifully laid back lovely guy.”

“I’m jealous that John Giddings has got his festival and there’s the Bestival and I’m an Island resident and I thinking there’s room for something in

between. A bit rocky, but not too heavy, aimed at the 40ish age bracket,” said John.

Production Manager Paul McGuire thought that the event could be a two day festival but there are no plans to ever provide camping on site. This could be a bonus for local bed and breakfasts, hotels and private campsites in future years if the event does stretch over two days like the Osborne House gigs in July/August.

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

JOHNSON PRAISES MEDICS

WIGHTLINK Islanders’ speedway star Brendan Johnson has paid tribute to paramedics and hospital staff after they saved his career-and his life.

The 17-year-old was involved in an horrific accident at whilst racing at the Wave 105 Smallbrook Stadium.

Johnson and Mildenhall’s Jamie Birkinshaw collided as they sped down the back

straight, before crashing heavily.

Speaking from hospital, Johnson said: “I really have to thank the medical crew for their swift action and treatment at the circuit on the night. It was a very scary experience but the team really looked after me.

“The guys at St Mary’s Hospital were fantastic as well, I really have to thank them for their professionalism which proved

vital and saved my life.”

The teenager continued: “I also want to thank everybody at the Wightlink Islanders for their help and support, and all the messages of support from friends and fans. That has really helped me get on the road to recovery.

“I want to get racing as soon as I can, but realistically I think it will be at least six months before I get back on to a bike.”

BACK DOOR BREAK IN

POLICE are renewing an appeal for information after a burglary was reported at a house in Ryde.

It’s alleged entry was gained through an insecure back door at a property in West Hill Road sometime between 4.15pm and 4.45pm on Friday, August 21.

A brown leather shoulder bag containing a number of personal items was stolen.

Investigating officer, PC Dave Dovey, of Hampshire Constabulary’s IW Targeted Patrol Teams (TPT) said: “Police have carried out

house-to-house enquiries in the area over the past week but there remain a number of local residents we would like to contact. I would also like to remind householders to check their doors and windows are locked when they’re not at home.

Remembering simple precautions can reduce the risk of opportunist thieves targeting your property.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Ryde Police Station on 101 or 0845 045 4545 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

HIGH SPEED FIRE ACTION ANYONE who thinks their vehicle is simply for getting from A to B has never seen Scott May in action.

The stuntman showed how to bend the laws of physics with an internal combustion engine when the Scott May Daredevil Stunt Show came to Smallbrook stadium.

He and his team of adrenaline junkies performed gravity and even death-defying manoeuvres in front of a

gob- smacked crowd of 2,000 youngsters and adults at Smallbrook.

The air was thick with the smell of burning rubber and pierced with the screech of metal on metal as the fearless troupe pushed dirt bikes, quad bikes, cars, lorries and even monster trucks to the limit.

These guys really knew what they were doing – the second best two-wheel car driver in the world drove an old

Ford around the stadium at a 45 degree angle like he was nipping out to the shops.

That would have been enough for the wide-eyed crowd, until they witnessed a 7.5 tonne lorry also trundle down the track diagonally and a quad bike momentarily perch on just one tyre.

How do you top that? Simple: put trained professionals in peril. Cue dirt bike riders smashing through flaming

wooden slats with their heads, and others dragged along the ground clad in carpets.

All that seemed impressive until the world’s youngest female human cannonball was blasted through the air in to a well-placed safety net.

Scott’s teams showed an unshakeable faith in his abilities as they lined up for their fearless leader to weave between them blindfolded, or take off from a ramp and fly

over them, on a dirt bike.

He also showed why he is the world number one at precision parking, using hand-brake turns to slide a run-of-the-mill Ford Fiesta into space only inches longer than the car.

The highlight of the show was the most destructive part, when a Thundertrax all-terrain vehicle and Bandit monster truck drove over a pile of scrapped cars as if it was a molehill.

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

ISLAND GIRLS PARTY WITH THE STARS

VIP winners Ellisha Ford and Hayleigh Fuller

Natassia Richardson and Zoe West

OCEANA nightclub in Southampton was the venue for this year’s Galaxy FM Love Music event, with guest appearances from Alesha Dixon, Booty Luv, Tinchy Stryder and JLS. For weeks prior to the event the popular south coast station gave listeners the chance to win tickets on several of its shows.

The Gazette managed to catch up with some Islanders who made the trip over the Solent for what turned out to be a night to remember.

Hayleigh Fuller and Ellisha Ford, both from Ryde were winners of exclusive VIP tickets. “We won VIP tickets through Galaxy FM on Ben Glover’s drivetime show.

Ben actually phoned me up and said ‘Hi it’s the bank’ and I actually believed him!

I even went and got my bank statement.”

“But then he said he was only joking and announced that we had won two tickets.

I was really surprised and very excited. We had a wicked night!”

Natassia Richardson, from Brighstone, also attended the event with her friend Zoe West, who lives in Freshwater.

“We tried winning tickets by listening to Galaxy FM, but unfortunately we were unsuccessful, so we just bought the tickets in the end.

But we didn’t mind, we had a great night’” said Natassia.

“We travelled over from the Island and went back over after the event. We really enjoyed Booty Luv, and JLS were also really good,” added Zoe.

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

FUN IN THE FOAM!

The Balcony nightclub in Ryde was the venue for a foam party with hundreds of partygoers enjoying the night.

Galaxy Fm DJ Ben Glover played out a

mix of dance and RnB tunes to make sure the evening went off with a bang.

“It was a great night and it looked like everyone had fun. I saw people walking around

covered in foam from head to toe. It was fantastic!

“I even managed to get a photo of me in the DJ box as a part of ‘The lying down game’, the craze that is sweeping

the world where people have to get photos of themselves or friends lying face down on the floor in the most bizarre places they can.

I love it, it’s great fun!” said Ben.

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

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THE LEGEND RIDES ON From the ashes of the

classic Vespa PX Scooter

The LML Star Deluxe in stock now to view at Isle of Wight Motorcycles, Zeta House, Daish Way, Newport. Phone 522675

SCRAPPAGE SCHEME GOING STRONG Staff at Harwoods Renault are preparing for what is expected to be a busy September with the release of the new 59-plate registration.

There has been continued interest in the government’s car scrappage scheme and exclusive offers available until the end of the month.

The aim of the scheme is to kick-start the motor industry and encourage consumers to buy new cars and also to

introduce more less-polluting cars onto the roads.

The scheme gives customers £2,000 towards the purchase of a new car or van when they scrap a car of 10 years old or more, with £1,000 being provided by the government and £1,000 from the manufacturer.

Paul Hunt, sales director at Harwoods, said: “We’re anticipating a very busy September and beyond. Motorists will be aware that there’s now a twiceyearly change to the registration plate meaning that those issued from September 1 will read “59”.

If the recent Isle of Wight Advertising Feature Scooter rally piqued also made many of the your interest in scooters components used by Vespa then here’s some great in Italy, including the news about an exciting scooter range Isle of Wight engines.

The 2009 LML Model Motorcycles in Newport has revised badges, new can now supply. style speedo & halogen The LML Star Deluxe headlight. There is a large represents the timeless colour range available style of scootering that and accessories are generations remember. stocked in the Newport It is the only new showroom. Prices start model scooter today from just £1,995 including in circulation, to have government charges. a 4-speed manual Isle of Wight gearchange and a two Motorcycles is the only stroke engine that approved Vespa and complies with Euro 3 Piaggio dealer on the emission controls.

Island and is able to The 2009 LML is based supply parts and service on the Vespa’s PX125. for scooters in accordance LML built the Vespa PX with the manufactures in large quantities in specifications. cooperation with Vespa Isle of Wight Motorcycles for several years prior to parts department are Piaggio Vespa phasing agents for tuning and out the model in 2007. aftermarket components, These later PX’s were such as big-bore kits, badged “Vespa” and sold exhausts, reed valves in many countries. LML batteries, cables and not only built some of chrome kits. the PX models, but they

Standard LML Star Deluxe Features Include: • Electric & kick start • 4 Speed Manual Gearbox • Front disc brakes • Spare Wheel • Classic 60’s Italian Styling • 2 Chrome Mirrors

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September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

JO MACAULAY: WORDS FROM THE HEART I’VE JUST been out for a ‘goodbye’ meal with my eighteen year old daughter because she’s off to university tomorrow. Our whole family of five in a restaurant and nobody fell out – amazing. There was even the sound of laughter heard more than once.

And today, of all days, I feel privileged to be able to be with my family and to celebrate my eldest child’s farewell.

Michele Cowan did not have that chance – her son just walked out and never came back. I can’t even contemplate how she must feel – or how she felt when she discovered he had gone.

When Suggs made the appeal for Luke on the stage at Summer Madness this weekend, we little knew that Luke’s body would be discovered just two days later.

Michele was so pleased that Suggs had made time for her and everyone clapped.

I don’t know about anyone else at that gig, but at that time I just felt happy and secure to know that I had a family who, as far as I knew, were safe and well.

And now this. Michele’s worst fears realised, although she had a mother’s intuition that he was no longer alive.

My thoughts are with her at this time and I know that her lovely extended family will be with her, share and help her and bring her through this terrible time.

My daughter will also be back very soon – she’s working at the Bestival next weekend. And I will be there too, not taking any legal highs. We’ll be reporting more on them in our next issue and I really hope that anyone out there reading this takes note of the dangers of taking them. They may be legal but that does not make them harmless. Being able to take your drugs, just like being able to take your drink, may make you cool, hard or fly but is it worth losing your mind for? Or your life?

Endless Summer at Driftwood Advertising Feature

CRAFTY IDEAS AS EVENINGS DRAW IN WIGHTCAT wools try to encourage and inspire people to try new projects such as socks, felting & toys as well as garments and display lovely examples of by finished projects around the shop.

They have a range of yarns to suit all budgets including Sirdar, Patons & Regia and almost all their yarns are at less than RRP (recommended retail price). They have baby 4ply & DK, machine washable wool, sock yarn, felting wool, chunky

Advertising Feature

creative craft supplies for Card Making, parchment craft, scrapbooking and yarns and super chunky stamping along with the yarns as well as specialist essentials such as glue, yarns such as Artesano card blanks, paper, card Hummingbird Alpaca and and embellishments Cornish Organic Wool in and an extensive array the latest season’s colours. of products including Wightcat Crafts pride fimo, felt, stencils & themselves on stocking dies, polystyrene shapes, different and hard to ribbons, paints & inks, find products, including decoupage & die-cut Pergamano, PCA, decoupage.

Spellbinders, Cuttlebug, Weekly workshops for Flowersoft, K & Co, Basic parchment craft and card Grey & Folk Art One making are run and there Stroke Paints. They stock is a regular knitting club.

IF YOU are looking for a relaxing afternoon in the sun with a cold beer and fine food, then look no further than the Driftwood Bar in Sandown.

And now the Driftwood has introduced its new ‘Endless Summer’ evening menu, keeping some of the old favourites and introducing some tempting new dishes.

The new favourite is the ‘Big Kahuna’ chicken burger, which comprises an 8oz butterflied chicken breast freshly battered, topped with cheese and bacon and served with onion rings, mushrooms, side salads and with a choice of potatoes.

The ‘Endless Summer’ menu is available from this Saturday September 5. Table bookings are advised, and are available between 6pm-9.30pm Friday and Saturday, and 6pm-9pm Sunday to Thursday.

The ‘Almost Legendary’ Driftwood Steak Night is served every Friday from 5pm-9.30pm, where all steaks come direct from Island cattle at Kemphill Farm in Haven Street.

See page 22 for a terrific competition where you can win a meal for two at Driftwood.

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The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

AND THEY’RE OFF!

HONDA FORMULA 4-Stroke Association (F4SA) the world’s largest two class powerboat race series staged the fourth leg of their 2009 championship race season in the line up for one of the Cowes-PooleCowes races, as a part of the legendary CowesTorquay-Cowes race.

Spectators gathered at the Royal Yacht Squadron Line to watch the Honda F4SA powerboats set course for Poole Bay amongst other competitors in V24 and Class 3, the larger Marathon classes headed directly to a Torquay turning mark.

The Honda race, which consisted of seven legs totalling 39 nautical miles with one lap of Poole and Christchurch Bay, finished in a little over an hour.

A few Honda boats suffered some damage, but nothing that prevented any of them from completing the race. The full fleet from both classes 150hp and 225hp were in attendance with the exception of one 225hp Vortigern.

As the race came to a finish the crew of Heights of Abraham 225hp returned with their heads held high when they came first overall out of the Honda fleet.

Driven by Rupert Pugh and navigated by Daniel Whapples the pair were delighted with their victory.

The crew of Hydrex, the 2007 championship winners, rolled over the finish line in their Honda 150hp after miraculously over taking a few of the

faster Honda 225hp boats.

Putting their achievements down to skill and an appreciation of the rough conditions Jak Cockman, driver and Andy Phipps, navigating, had aimed to please the crowds and certainly managed to prove that the performance of a Honda engine is not to be reckoned with.

F4SA’s race organizer, Brian Wheeler, said: “I have to say that this has been the best race of the season so far.

Everyone enjoyed being part of something a little different and it really went a long way to separate the men from the boys, and the women from the girls with our entire fleet battling it out together.”

September 4, 2009

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The IW Gazette

WHAT a powerboat enthusiast needs for a good day’s racing is sun, sea, and of course big waves. And Cowes had all this!

I was offered a navigator place in the Honda F4SA 150hp race which starts at Cowes then heads to Poole before coming back again. As I couldn’t make the race briefing (some people do work in the daytime you know), I was consolidated by having a place on the Construction Racing Team’s RIB. This was a chase boat that would follow team manager Marcus Bradshaw right from the start.

When talking to Marcus, a man whose experience goes before him, alongside his bobbing orange and white boat, it seemed he was well up for the race. I couldn’t help but feel a bit jealous in the fact it should have been me in that boat.

As the chase boat left behind Red Jet 4 after a delayed start, we were off. It was hard to make out where Marcus was as there were so many boats on the water. It was like trying to find my missus in IKEA! The wake

left behind by the boats was causing us to gain air too. Now, I am off sea stock and being qualified to ride power boats I was used to the high waves but my word, these were big! At one point I saw one boat po-go on its rear across the waves.

It became too rough for our RIB so we sheltered in at Yarmouth for a pasty and a cup of tea. As I was heading back to the boat we saw Marcus fly back down the water. And when I say fly I really mean fly. The waves were certainly giving us some spectacular footage.

Back at Cowes Yacht Haven it was clear how tough it was for some of the teams. Some dodgy backs, a few limps and one experienced driver pretty much up for swapping with me in the chase RIB. Ever hit concrete?

That’s what it can feel like in a power boat.

There is no suspension just you and the raw

elements.

All in all Marcus and the team finished in the top five and were in the beer tent within 10 minutes of signing off. He wasn’t the only one.

Honda have felt the brunt of the recession and pulled out of all motor sports across the globe. It seems a shame as Cowes really is the best place for this type of sport. However, it isn’t the end… watch this space…or water!

BY BEN GLOVER

30 sport

The IW Gazette

September 4, 2009

SPORT COURSES RETURN

THE IW COUNCIL’S ‘Return to Sport’ courses will be taking place in September, providing an easy and low-cost way to get active and fit in a fun and friendly environment.

Courses in netball, golf, running, racketball, sailing and pilates are available, and are being organized by the council’s sports unit in partnership with the community and family learning service.

Whether you want to try something new or are

IW DOMINATE IN GOSPORT

returning to a sport you took part in years ago, anyone aged 16 or over is invited to get involved.

Course places are limited, so people are encouraged to book quickly to avoid disappointment.

Cllr George Brown, IW council cabinet member responsible for leisure said: “It can sometimes be daunting returning to a sport you may have played in younger years, but these courses are designed to reintroduce you to your

A WRIGHT VICTORY

Picture by David Valentine

FRESHWATER’S Golf Club’s Weekend Medal proved a close-fought contest in Division One and Two. In the top division Keith Wright, playing off eight, THREE RINKS of the IW Bowls team three Island teams had reached the scored a net 65 to beat Barry Crook on comprising of Adam & Kieran Clark, semi-finals. countback. Richard Frost, playing off Josh Berry & Paul Attrill and Travis The first semi-final was Adam’s six, finished third with a 67.

Meller, Jack Berry, Peter Wheeler & rink against a strong local club side.

Division Two was even tighter with Ryan Trigg competed in the annual Ron However, after the ten ends they three players tied on 68. Gary Cooke, Sellwood Open Bowls Tournament at narrowly lost by a single shot. a 14-handicapper, took first place on the Gosport Bowls Club, along with a Travis’ rink was drawn against count back, with second place going rink of Richard Lovell, junior – Liam Richard’s rink and with the youngsters to Cliff Sanders off 20,whose round Jones, Brian Ayres & Les Benford. bowling well this was going to be a included a hole in one at the third. Tony All the rinks won their first round tough game for the old hands. Travis, Black (15) finished third. matches giving them a good start Jack, Peter & Ryan kept up their The Sunday Stableford also went to against what turned out to be some standard of play to take the lead after very strong opposition. Adam’s rink seven ends. Richard’s rink then drew on count back. Tony Keen (10) came out on top with 35 points ahead of Russell won their second game and having their experience to win the next three scored heavily in both games they were ends and take the game to an extra end. Macgregor (18) in second with the same guaranteed a place in the semi-finals.

With Richard’s rink holding shot wood, score with Brian Friend (16) third on 34 points.

With Travis’ rink losing their second Travis was unlucky not to draw the The midweek Stableford saw Tim Rees game, they managed to get a good winning bowl, dropping just short. carding 30 points in difficult conditions result in their final game and they went Richard’s rink went on to the final off his 25 handicap, to secure his first through to the semi-final stage. and with all of the team playing some Richard’s rink drew their second excellent bowls they went on to win the victory. Second place went to John Davis (16) on 26. game and with their next opponents competition by seven shots to six. * * * on two wins, they had to win their final The Ron Sellwood Cup was presented YOUNG Tommy Robinson scored a game in their group-which they did. to the winning team by Ken Kingston, double success at Shanklin and Sandown This meant that for the first time all President of the Gosport Bowls Club.

Tris Winterburn & passenger William Brown crash out

chosen sport in a fun and safe environment.

“As a council we are keen to promote healthy activities and hope residents will take advantage of these introductory courses to rediscover their sporting skills or to try something new.”

All places need to be booked in advance, details can be found at www.iwight.com or by calling or e-mailing the sports unit on 823818.

Golf Club, winning the Junior Centenary Trophy and the Junior Stableford, scoring 41 points on each occasion.

But even Tommy could not match the adult Centenary Trophy winner Chris Teague, who came in with a highly impressive 46 points, holding off Guy De Belder, Tony Williams and Jason Kwan, who all scored 40.

Alan Winter won the Marsden Memorial Trophy Division One – a bogey competition - with a score of five, while Graham Stewart won Division Two with six.

In the Ladies EWGA Medal, the Silver winner was Beverley Carroll with 67.

Lynne Maidment won the Bronze 1 event with 70, and the Bronze 2 was claimed by Pearl Robertson (75), while Jan Hill won the Alternative Stableford with 32 points.

Ashley Lawrence took the honours in the Open Medal Division One with a superb net 61, with Division Two going to Paul Cock (70). Winners of the Isle of Wight Trophies Knockout were Tony and Fran Cole with Mo and Lesley Ismail runners-up.

WINTERBURN AND BROWN CRASH OUT Continued from page 32

injured.

But, amazingly, both Tris The meeting got off to a and Liam were able to get to spectacular start when Tris their feet much to everyone’s Winterburn and Liam Brown relief, although it signalled overturned their 1000cc the end of their racing night, machines at high speed, as mainly due to their machinery they hit the safety fence as suffering much damage as a they crossed the finishing result of the impact. line in heat one.

Thankfully there were no Both driver and passenger further crashes of a spectacuwere flung into the air like lar nature in an exciting rag dolls and medics raced to night of racing. One or two their aid as a hush descended outfits did briefly catch fire on the terraces with at the end of races, but they spectators fearing that either were swiftly extinguished by trackstaff. or both might be seriously

September 4, 2009

sport 31

The IW Gazette

Isle of Wight Divisional Football Association The Saturday League Fixtures and Match Officials for Saturday September 5 Hampshire Saturday Intermediate Cup Round 1 Kick off 2pm

AFC Portchester Res Binstead & COB Crusaders Fleet Spurs Res Frimley Newchurch Niton St Helens BS Sandhurst Sports Shanklin Sholing Sports West Wight

v v v v v v v v v v v v

Brighstone QK Southampton Northwood St Johns Cowes Sports Res GKN Carisbrooke United AFC Hiltingbury Ringwood Town Reserves Sandown Christchurch Reserves Oakfield Infinity

Division 1 Division 2

DERBY DELIGHT FOR PORT A BRACE from Iain Seabrook gave Newport their first league win of the season in the Bank Holiday derby at Brading.

The gifted striker put the visitors ahead with a neat strike on the angle, slotting home through goalkeeper Joe McCormack’s legs.

Newport dominated the first half play with the home side under increased pressure.

Brading did have a chance to pull level when Darren Williams was through on goal, but he was stopped by Craig Insley. The resulting corner was headed off

the line by defender Ross Gregory.

The lead was doubled for the visitors in first half stoppage time. Seabrook struck a sweet 25-yard free kick in to the bottom right hand corner of McCormack’s goal.

The second half started as the first finished, with Newport in the ascendency. However, the away side were reduced to 10-men on 55 minutes, when Charlie Smeeton was sent off after picking up his second booking of the afternoon.

Newport keeper Gary Streeter then pulled off a good save from a Joe

Rayner header, as the Romans desperately tried to break down the Newport defence.

Gregory and Tom Scovell both received yellow cards late on for the visitors, but they held on to record their first Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division victory of the season, and claim the local bragging rights.

In the days other games featuring Island sides, Cowes Sports suffered a heavy 6-2 home defeat by Totton and Eling, while East Cowes Vics lost 4-0 to Horndean in Division One.

Goalscorer Iain Seabrook starts another attack for Newport

Brading Town Res Kyngs Towne Rookley Ryde Saints Shanklin VYCC W & B Sports

All matches kick off 2.30pm, except those listed v v v v v v

East Cowes Vics Res Kick off 1.30pm Yarmouth & Calbourne Kick off 1.30pm Ventnor Arreton Athletic Seaview Wroxall

Division 3

Cowes Old Boys v East Cowes Youth OB’s v Pan Sports v No Game

Gurnard Sports Wakes Osborne Coburg Bembridge

All matches kick off 2.30pm, except those listed

Combination 2

All matches kick off 2.30pm, except those listed

East Cowes Vics A Kyngs Towne Osborne Coburg Seaview Ventnor

W & B Sports Binstead & COB Shanklin St Helens BS Ryde Saints West Wight GKN & Newchurch

v v v v v

Binstead & COB Newport IOW Reserves Niton Sandown Shanklin West Wight 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

All matches kick off 2.30pm

Combination 1

Brading Town A v Brighstone v Carisbrooke United v Northwood St Johns v Oakfield v Sandown v No Game

POS

No Games

Shanklin VYCC Yarmouth & Calbourne Bembridge Niton Wakes

Kick off 4pm

Kick off 4pm

Results from August 29 Division 1

West Wight GKN Binstead & COB Brighstone Newchurch Oakfield Carisbrooke United Newport IOW Reserves Northwood St Johns Shanklin Cowes Sports Reserves Niton St Helens Blue Star Sandown

2-2 2-3 0-4 0-1 3-3 4-1

Newchurch GKN Carisbrooke United Brighstone Oakfield St Helens Blue Star

P

W

3 3 3 3 3 3 2 3 2 3 2 3 2 3

3 3 2 2 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

D 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 2 1 1 0 0

L

0 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 1 1 1 2 2 3

GD

PTS

7 6 5 2 -1 -3 2 0 -1 -1 -1 -5 -4 -6

9 9 7 7 4 4 3 3 3 2 1 1 0 0

Division 2

East Cowes Victoria Athletic Reserves Ryde Saints Seaview Shanklin VYCC Ventnor Yarmouth & Calbourne

0-2 3-1 6-0 1-1 6-2 2-4

Whitecroft & Barton Sports Wroxall Kyngs Towne Brading Town Reserves Arreton Athletic Rookley

POS

P

W

D

L

GD

PTS

1 1

0 0

0 0

1 1

-4 -6

0 0

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12

Seaview Ventnor Rookley Ryde Saints Whitecroft & Barton Sports Brading Town Reserves Shanklin VYCC Yarmouth & Calbourne Wroxall East Cowes Victoria Athletic Reserves Arreton Athletic Kyngs Towne

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1

6 4 2 2 2 0 0 -2 -2 -2

3 3 3 3 3 1 1 0 0 0

32 sport

Sport

The IW Gazette

the gazette

September 4, 2009

Send your sports news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk

POWERBOAT JOY FOR SIR ROBIN certainly adds to his already remarkable list of achievements. Shelley was also awarded the Motor Boat & Yachting Trophy for being the fourth placed driver.

The race started

BY JAMIE from the Solent in very choppy seas, WHITE and as the fleet of 20 of the world’s fastest powerboats headed towards the Needles, the weather provided one of the toughest courses in recent times.

Short choppy seas across Poole and Bournemouth Bay were followed by a big swell around Portland Bill and into the notorious seas of Lyme Bay. The competition was intense, with the lead changing a number of times. In the end the conditions proved just too much for some of the leading boats who fell by the wayside.

As he stepped off the boat Sir Robin commented: “It was an interesting

Sir Robin Know-Johnston and Shelley Jory

experience and one I won’t forget. I will definitely be back next year – but as a spectator!”

Shelley added: “I thought the boat was amazing and I have to pay tribute to Robin and the rest of the crew for their

SIDECAR ACTION HOTS UP

EVEN though the summer may have come and gone and the nights are getting colder, the atmosphere at the Wave105FM Smallbrook Stadium was red hot, as the third round of the 2009 British Sidecar Speedway Championship came to town.

And with an immaculate display in the final, meeting winners Mark Cossar and passenger Andi Wilson, plus runners up Ivor Matthews and Rick McAuley,

stamina and contribution to getting the boat back to Cowes”.

Only nine out of the 20 boats that crossed the start line made it home, after a terrific day of racing for spectators and competitors.

served notice of defending champions Matt Tyrell and Shaun Yates that this year’s title is still up for grabs.

Tyrell and Yates had to settle for third place in the final, meaning that it will be a battle royale between the three leading crews in the final round of this year’s title race that takes place at Birmingham.

Continued on page 30

Team Skeleton Rich Moore & Rob Winspear lead Ivor Matthews & Rick McAuley

Picture by David Valentine

THE BRITISH powerboat racing champion Shelley Jory and her navigator, sailing legend Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, finished fourth place overall and first in their class, in the grueling Cowes-TorquayCowes Powerboat classic.

Racing as Team Scorpion, the pair completed the 170-nautical mile course in their 10m Scorpion Sting RIB in a little over four hours. The time was deemed as an incredible achievement given the extremely challenging weather conditions, and the fact that Sir Robin had never before competed in a powerboat race.

Shelley was also awarded the Ladies Trophy by Lady Aitken whilst Sir Robin, aged 70, received the MEMA Trophy for being the oldest competitor. This is an award that he may not necessarily have chosen to win, but one that