IW Gazette 32

REPORTING ISLAND NEWS

ta Ple ke as on e e

!

EE FR

gazette the isle of wight

Friday September 11, 2009

Your new look WEEKLY READ

SEE INSIDE FOR ALL THE LATEST NEWS AND EVENTS FROM ALL AROUND THE ISLAND

Bestival gets ready to rock!

Turn to page 22 for your FREE site guide

FAREWELL ‘FLETCH’

NEWS

SNAKES AND ADDERS A family take home more than just a stick of rock after a caravanning holiday to the Island

Page 8

EVENTS RYDE ILLUMINATED CARNIVAL A double page picture round-up of the last of our carnivals for this summer

Page 15

MOTORING HUGE crowds joined members of the emergency services to pay their final respects to firefighter Paul Fletcher, who died on duty.

Firefighters stood to

attention to honour their award-winning colleague, who suffered a suspected heart attack while answering a false alarm fire call at HMP Isle of Wight.

Continued on page 3

LISTEN TO BREAKFAST ON WIGHTFM - WWW.WIGHTFM.COM

MOTORCYCLE CLUB RALLY Smallbrook Stadium, Ryde was the venue for the 18th IW British and Classic Motorcycle Club rally, which drew a wide range of visitors

Page 27

PAGE 2

www.iwgazette.co.uk

2

NEWS

LOOK WHO’S BEEN READING THE GAZETTE 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 Rd, Sandown, Isle of Wight, PO36 9PH.

Dragon’s Den Duncan Bannatyne

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

No charge for flat fire

POLICE have confirmed that a woman from Wootton Bridge has been released from bail with no further action, following an extensive investigation into a house fire in which a man died.

Officers were called to a flat in Well Road, East Cowes shortly before 2.30am on Sunday, March 15, where the body of a man was found.

A 38-year-old woman was arrested at the scene of the fire, initially on suspicion of arson with

intent to endanger life, before being later arrested on suspicion of murder.

A spokeswoman for the Crown Prosecution Service said: “When considering whether a case should be prosecuted, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) applies the Code for Crown Prosecutors. This firstly examines the evidence and then the public interest.

In this case it was decided that there was insufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction and therefore

no charges could be made.”

Detective Inspector Philip Bateman from Hampshire Constabulary’s Major Crime Department added: “If further significant evidence becomes available at a later date, the decision may be reconsidered, and police can seek further advice from the Crown Prosecution Service.”

Hampshire Constabulary is now in the process of preparing a file for the IW Coroner who will hold an inquest into the death on a date yet to be fixed.

The Isle of Wight Gazette Address:

Reporters:

Unit B18, Spithead Business Centre, Jamie White Newport Road, Isle of Wight, PO36 9PH Telephone: (01983) 409928 Email: jamie@iwgazette.co.uk

News Editor:

Jason Kay Telephone: (01983) 409928 Email: jason@iwgazette.co.uk

Richard Collins Telephone: (01983) 409928 Email: richard@iwgazette.co.uk

Features Editor:

Peter White Telephone: (01983) 409928 Email: newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk

Jo Macaulay Telephone: (01983) 409928 Email: jo@iwgazette.co.uk

Penny Newnham Telephone: (01983) 409928 Email: penny@iwgazette.co.uk

Supporting the Earl Mountbatten Hospice through your generous donations when you pick up your free copy Published by: The Isle of Wight Gazette Ltd Sorry – the Gazette currently does not currently carry classified advertising.

Buses on for Bestival

THE PARENT place again today company of bus (September 11) and operator Southern Saturday (September Vectis, has said that 12). bus strike will not Spokesperson for affect travel to and Southern Vectis, from the Bestival.

Graham Craig, said: As we reported in “Despite industrial The Gazette last week, action by the RMT, many drivers went services to and from on strike in a dispute the Bestival will run over a wages freeze. as normal. There were Picket lines were around 75 drivers set up at bus stations who took part in the in Ryde and Newport action last week. Our in a bid to get a wage customers will not be increase, and strike affected by any strike action is set to take action.”

Design:

Sales Manager:

Colin Clarke Telephone: (01983) 402599 Email: gazettead@mac.com

James Rolfe Telephone: (01983) 402599 Email: jamierolfe@hotmail.co.uk

Dean Chick Telephone: (01983) 402599 Email: gazettead@mac.com

Sales:

Paul Mercer Telephone: (01983) 402599 Email: gazettead@mac.com

Sam Smith Telephone: (01983) 402599 Email: samsmith.iwgazette@yahoo.com)

Newsdesk:

Kate Slade Telephone: (01983) 402599 Email: kate.slade@hotmail.co.uk

(01983) 409928 Fax: (01983) 404189 Email: newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk

Accounts & Sales Administrator: Roxy Vaughan Telephone: (01983) 409928 Email: admin@iwgazette.co.uk

Got a story? Call the news desk NOW! T 409928

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

NEWS

GREAT LOSS TO ALL

BY JASON KAY Continued from front page Just after 1pm on Wednesday (September 9) the main entrance to Newport fire station in South Street opened, and colleagues from the IW fire service, police and paramedics formed a guard of honour in a full brigade service for the crew manager.

A fire engine emerged carrying Paul’s union jack draped coffin, topped by his helmet and a floral wreath of red and white flowers.

South Street fell eerily silent as the funeral cortege passed on its final journey to a memorial service at

the Minster Church of Sts Thomas, Newport.

As the cortege turned into St Thomas’ Square, scores of mourners - many openly weeping, watched on as Paul’s coffin arrived at the church, with rows of colleagues standing to attention to say a final goodbye.

Two IW firemen in dress uniforms, stood guard at the doors of the church, making way for one IW fire Service and one Royal Navy flag bearer, who held their insignias at half-mast.

Six of Paul’s colleagues from blue watch acted as pallbearers, taking the coffin, which had a yellow firefighter’s helmet on top of it, into the church, whilst wife Lisa, daughter Chloe and son Josh looked on.

Mourners gathered for the hour-long service conducted

by Rev Alan Swanborough who described Paul as a good man would never be forgotten.

IW Chief Fire Officer, Paul Street, paid an emotional tribute to Mr Fletcher.

He said: “The service that he represented is in total devastation at the loss of Paul. There is great sadness and a feeling of emptiness in his staff. Paul changed many lives, never doing things by half, always doing things at full steam.”

Mr Street described how Paul gave off electricity like a dynamo of energy and of how he wished to always do something better every day.

He went on pay tribute to the valiant attempts of the HMP IW prison officers, Fire Service, Ambulance and A&E staff who fought to save Paul’s life.

Speaking after the service

Mr Street said: “Paul’s service with the IW Fire and Rescue Service was exemplary and it was only fitting that his colleagues and the Island were able to pay their respects with an official brigade funeral.

“Paul will be greatly missed by his colleagues and friends both inside and outside of the fire service. He was instrumental in much of the work that helped bring about tremendous improvement in the service in the last few years.

“The greatest tribute we can now pay to Paul, is to continue to work to ensure the Island maintains a fire and rescue service of which those who serve within it - and indeed Island residents - are proud.”

Mr Fletcher’s family later attended a private service

Paul Fletcher with close friends at the IW crematorium.

Mark Watson, who employed Mr Fletcher as a doorman at Bogeys nightclub and later went on to work alongside him in the Fire Service, said: “I’ve known Paul for about 10 years and he was a genuinely nice guy. He had a great sense of humour and was always on hand to offer his advice, help

3

and support.

“Paul and myself both got promoted to crew manager at the same time, and his professionalism helped me through.”

Mr Fletcher also had a successful spell at Shanklin Football Club.

A spokesperson for the club said: “Shanklin FC is shocked and saddened by the loss of a former player and friend to many. Our thoughts are with his wife, Lisa and his children. Paul was one of the best and will be greatly missed.”

On the streets, mourner John Richardson, 68, from Portsmouth, said: “The least I could do was come to pay my respects to such a brave young man. Today’s turnout shows what high regard they are held in.”

www.iwgazette.co.uk

4

NEWS

Aid the Air Ambulance

THE HAMPSHIRE and IW Air Ambulance is looking for volunteers to give talks and organise fund-raising events.

The organisation is looking for people who are comfortable talking to large groups, who can man stalls at events and perhaps do some administration work.

John Perry, chief executive officer for the Hampshire and IW Air Ambulance, said: “We are looking all over Hampshire and the Island for people interested in volunteering and who have a range of skills, which we will endeavour to support and enhance.

“We already have some fantastic volunteers, but we need more. Volunteers make such a difference to a charity.

Without them we couldn’t provide the service we do, so we aim to look after you while you look after us.”

The air ambulance provides services across Hampshire and the Island in response to emergency calls. Since the air ambulance became operational on July 1, 2007 it has undertaken over 1,735 missions, many of which have saved lives. It now flies seven days per week, being called to missions on average four to five times per day.

For this vital service to continue the charity must raise in excess of £92,000 per month.

The charity receives no funding from the Government or the National Lottery, and relies entirely on donations.

Anyone interested in offering their services as a volunteer can contact Kirsty Watts on 023 8033 3377.

Bad weather delays Cats

WIGHTLINK’S planned new catamaran service suffered another setback – due to bad weather.

The Maritime Coastguard Agency drill on board the vessel last week was abandoned due to the bad weather and therefore the catamaran did not obtain her passenger certificate.

New ‘cat’ timetables come into force on September 21, four days after Wight Ryder I and II are officially named.

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

EIGHT RESCUED FROM BLAZE

A FATHER and seven children were led from choking smoke by firefighters in a house fire in Sandown.

Sixteen firefighters in breathing apparatus fought the blaze that had ripped through a bedroom in the terraced house.

Father of seven, Peter Ralph from Halford Close, was given an early warning by a smoke alarm that had been fitted in the house.

A neighbour explained that Mr Ralph had tried to tackle a blazing mattress and bedding that had caught alight in an upstairs bedroom belonging to one of the children. Afterwards he’d made an attempt to move the mattress and bedding from the bedroom and into a nearby bathroom. But he had been overcome by the thick black acrid smoke.

IW Fire and Rescue Station Manager Julian Trout, based at Newport, said that firefighters from Sandown and Newport, with two high pressure hose reels, fought

the fire for 40 minutes before bringing it under control.

Neighbours were asked to leave their property for fear that the inferno might spread.

Station Manager, Trout, highlighted the dangers of trying to tackle a fire: “Thankfully he had a smoke alarm to alert him to the problem. However, he ended up having to be treated for smoke inhalation because he attempted to put the fire out himself.

We advise you not to attempt to put out a fire yourself b e c a u s e there is the potential that you will be overcome with smoke or get burnt. It’s best to get everyone out, if it is safe to do so, and call 999.”

Social services have now relocated the family after the severe damage to the upstairs bedroom and smoke logging to the house.

Police spokesman confirmed that they are not treating the fire as suspicious.

“But he had been overcome by the thick black acrid smoke.”

SAINSBURYS SNATCH

POLICE are appealing for information after Sainsbury’s Petrol Station, Newport was targeted by thieves who forced their way into the premises in the early hours of Monday morning (September 7).

The area was cordoned off by police tape and officers stood guard for much of the morning whilst scene of crime officers carried out a search.

Det Sgt Will Burns, of Hampshire and IW CID, said: “The exact amount and value of

items taken from the store has yet to be confirmed.

“We are appealing for information and would like to hear from anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the Hunnycross Way area of Newport on Sunday night (September 6) and during the early hours of Monday.

Anyone with information is asked to contact CID on 101 or information can be given to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

TWO HURT IN BUS CRASH

TWO people were taken to hospital following a serious accident involving a double decker bus and a lorry in Cowes.

One man was treated for a head wound whilst firefighters from Newport and Cowes used specialist equipment to free another man pinned between a bench and the lorry. It took firefighters 40 minutes to stabilise the lorry and to release him.

The serious accident happened just after 1pm yesterday (Thursday, September 10) in Carvel Lane, near to the Red Jet Ferry Terminal, as hundreds of Bestival goers were waiting for the shuttle service to the Robin Hill site.

Minutes before two men were sitting on a bench on the bend between W. Hurst’s store and the Co-op.

A 49-year-old local man became trapped by his legs as a result of the accident. He was transferred by ambulance to St Mary’s Hospital, Newport. His injuries were described as serious but not life threatening. The other man also required hospital treatment.

An employee at W.Hurst’s explained: “We were serving customers and then heard a loud crash and a bang. We thought it was something in the stock room falling over, but it wasn’t. Then we heard screaming. We are very lucky. The bus could have put the lorry through the wall of the shop.”

A worker from the nearby hairdressers said: “I saw the bus come down and heard a loud bang and then people just started screaming and shouting to call for

an ambulance, because a man was pinned against the bench. The driver of the lorry wasn’t in the vehicle because he was out delivering.”

Another person, who was nearby at the time, said: “I got there immediately after and just saw the lorry against the bench with people still sat on it. Everyone was trying to push the truck away and loads of people were calling 999.

It was awful.”

Workers from the nearby Co-op store rushed to the scene.

“We are having the front windows replaced on the shop and thought workers had dropped one of them, because we heard a loud smash.

There were a lot of people around at the time. The emergency services were quickly at the scene to try and help the trapped man,” said a member of staff.

NEWS

5

Kayaking for kids

A NEW kayaking course for young people is being launched by the IW Council, in partnership with the Island Youth Water Activities Centre (IYWAC) in Cowes.

It aims to give young people the chance to try the sport in a fun and friendly environment at a reduced cost of just £18 for a six-week course.

Cllr George Brown, IW council cabinet member responsible for leisure said: “We are keen to provide opportunities for young people to take part in a wide variety of sports and some which they don’t normally do during school PE lessons. By teaming up with IYWAC, we have been able to offer a low cost course which, if popular enough, will develop into a permanent junior kayaking course.”

The course runs on Mondays between 4pm and 6pm starting on September 14. All young people aged nine to 16 are welcome, regardless of ability or prior experience. All equipment will be provided, along with specialist coaching and safety cover.

All places must be booked in advance. You can contact the council’s sports unit on 823818 or sports.unit@iow. gov.uk.

Gas van hits OAPs

POLICE are appealing for witnesses after two elderly women were injured in a road traffic accident in Newport.

The pedestrians were attempting to cross Crocker Street when they were involved in a collision with a British Gas van.

One of the women, aged 89, received serious injuries and was taken to hospital.

The other woman, aged 87, received minor injuries and was taken to hospital before being discharged the same day. The van driver, a man aged in his 50s from the Island, was not injured.

Police want to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the collision, which took place shortly after 11am on Wednesday, August 26.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Rob Quick at Shanklin Police Station by phoning 101.

Information can be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or the police on 0845 045 45 45 or 101.

www.iwgazette.co.uk

6

NEWS

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

OLDIES BUT BESTIVAL GOLDIES

NEWCHURCH Male Voice Choir will be first on the stage at the Bestival this Saturday, opening a day’s entertainment that will culminate with the pioneers of electronic music Kraftwork headlining later.

Rob Da Bank, Bestival curator, is well known for his eclectic taste in music, so it’s no surprise that this year he has invited the Newchurch Male Voice Choir to open the main stage at 11.15am.

Their 15 minute set at Robin Hill will begin with the rousing Rhythm of Life followed by a Nice ‘n Easy Perry Como medley (Magic moments; And I love you so; Catch a falling star), ARoving, Unchained Melody and finishing with the popular You’ll Never Walk Alone.

“Richard Knowles, a member of the choir and an NHS manager, approached Rob Da Bank and he asked us to go and sing for him.

We expected to be singing at the WI Tent but they put us on the main stage,” said chairman Don Leahy. “We’re all really excited.”

Under the conductorship of Roy Bevan, and with Jenny Riddell on the piano the choir will be resplendent in their

maroon blazers, white shirts and ties and black trousers.

It’s all a far cry from the white smocks, red neckerchiefs and string gaiters the choir wore

when they began in 1967 as the ‘Hart’s Ash Male Voice Choir’.

Having cut their very first vinyl disc ‘Village Voices’ in

FAMOUS paddle steamer The Waverley played a major part in the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society.

To mark milestone, The Waverley made a special cross-Solent cruise.

Chartered by the Wessex branch of the PSPS, The Waverley retraced a course it has taken many times when it set sail from Yarmouth on a return journey to Southampton Docks.

It was a nostalgic voyage

for in the summer of 1959, the founder and now PSPS president, Prof Alan Robinson, was crossing from Yarmouth to Lymington aboard the paddle steamer ‘Freshwater’ when he was told the vessel was to be taken out of service.

The news of its withdrawal prompted Prof Robinson to write a letter to a national newspaper, drawing attention to the dwindling number of paddle steamers in service and suggested that a group be formed to save an example of one for the pleasure of future generations.

That led to the formation of the PSPS, which now boasts over 3,500 members and has been involved in successfully preserving The Waverley and the former Red Funnel vessel ‘Balmoral’, which recently visited Cowes and made a round-the-Island cruise to mark the 60th anniversary of its launch.

the late sixties, it was some 40 years later in 2007 that the choir produced their 40th Anniversary CD ‘Stout Hearted Men’.

Ranging from age 40 to 84, the choir has 41 members although around 34 will be singing at the Bestival. “The grandchildren of many of

our gentlemen already think taking part in the Bestival is pretty much the coollest thing Grandpa has ever done,” said Mr. Leahy.

FIFTY FANTASTIC YEARS

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

NEWS

7

‘I’VE DONE NOTHING WRONG’

MARTIN WHITE, owner of Spaced Inc, has spoken exclusively to The Gazette about his arrest and raid by the police and Trading Standards.

We contacted Martin about the ‘legal highs’ that are available for purchase in his two outlets in Newport and Ryde after concerns were raised about ‘Space E’ plant feeder.

Asked if he was still selling Space E in his outlets, Mr. White said: “No, I have stopped selling it because I have a suspension order from Trading Standards until the end of September.

Both shops were raided and myself, and the guy who runs the shop in Ryde were arrested, and a lot of paperwork and herbal highs were taken on the Friday (July 31).

“The actual charge on the charge sheet is actual bodily harm (ABH) but I didn’t get told against whom.”

Martin continued: “I then got a phone call asking me to be at Newport Police Station and they gave me all my stock back, except for the Space E, which the police say they are not pursuing but Trading Standards say that they are,” he added.

When asked about the Space E he told us: “It is not marketed as a herbal

BY JASON KAY

high, it is clearly labelled as a plant feeder, not for human consumption and the directions and ingredients are on the packeting.”

But did Mr. White think that he was doing anything wrong in selling it? “People are buying it through the internet. I could give you to

50 or 60 websites that sell it.

“And we are not marketing it at all – we’re selling it as a plant feeder not for human consumption,” said Martin.

“It’s not sold to anybody under 21 and the shop is for over 18s only. There is a sign in the window. We enforce ID for Rizlas for 18 and that product was not sold (to under 18s) along with other products.”

Asked if he would be selling the product after the suspension period, Mr. White said: “That depends on when I answer my bail on September 24 (for ABH). My solicitor has had clients that have been arrested in possession of the product and it depends on whether the Crown Prosecution wants to pursue it.

“I’ve done quite a lot of research on it.” said Mr White, who also admitted that he had consumed the substance. “It’s been available in Russia and other countries for about 20 years,” he told us.

When asked if he were to find out that this plant food was being consumed and doing damage to teenagers would he still sell it, Mr. White said: “No, but I’m basically being given no information at all. There are five outlets on the south

“Mental Health Services have expressed concerns over the effect Space - E can have on people’s mental health.”

coast and it seems I’ve been singled out on the Isle of Wight. The last I heard from Hampshire Constabulary was that they are helping Trading Standards with their enquiries.”

A spokesperson for IW NHS said: “We have not experienced an increase in the number of admissions to hospital as a result of people taking Space - E, however Mental Health Services

on the Isle of Wight have expressed concerns over the effect Space - E can have on people’s mental health.”

Anyone with concerns about the taking of illegal or legal substances of any kind for the purpose of gaining an ‘artificial high’ should contact the national helpline on 0800 77 66 00 or visit the website www.talktofrank.com.

Hampshire Constabulary can confirm two men were

arrested and bailed in relation to an investigation into the alleged supply of drugs known as ‘legal highs’.

“A 49-year-old man from Newport, Isle of Wight and a 32-year-old man from Shanklin, Isle of Wight were both arrested on July 31, 2009 on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm (ABH) and bailed until September 24, 2009 pending further enquiries.”

www.iwgazette.co.uk

8

NEWS

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

SNAKES AND ADDERS A FAMILY took home more than just a stick of rock when they visited the Island for a holiday recently.

Paul and Jacqui Ferrett from Malvern, Worcestershire, had been on the Island for a two week fun packed camping holiday with their three sons, Aidan, aged nine, Lawrence, seven, and Harry, three.

But Jacqui had the fright of her life when she was unpacking dirty washing from Lawrence’s bag and found a baby snake had hitched a lift back home with them.

“Jacqui started clearing up toys from the floor which were lying around, including, ironically enough, some rubber insects.

She saw what she thought was another toy and then realised it was moving,” said Paul.

The 20cm snake, identified as an adder by Jacqui, must have crawled into Lawrence’s bag while it lay open at a campsite.

“The boys panicked slightly.

Luckily, it was on a mat, so I could scoop it up,” said Jacqui.

Adders are the only venomous snakes native to the UK. They are not aggressive snakes, and will only attack if harassed or threatened.

“One campsite we stayed at was surrounded by woodland and long grass. I suspect that it was an adder hotspot,” added Paul.

Although an adder’s venom poses little danger to a healthy adult human, the bite is very painful and requires urgent medical attention. The family found a wooded area to release their new guest, but made sure it wasn’t too close to their house.

Lawrence, 7, and Aiden, 9, found a suspected poisonous snake hitchhiking in their luggage

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

NEWS

9

WHOSE MULTI-MILLION POUND YACHT WAS MOORED OFF SANDOWN?

Previous owner Roman Abramovich and his girlfriend

LIB DEMS SUPPORT TURBINES THE ISLAND’S Liberal Democrats have confirmed they’re in favour of land-based wind turbines on the Isle of Wight.

With two applications due to be debated imminently one for a mini wind farm near Shorwell and another smaller development at Ventnor Golf Club, the local party have voted in favour of supporting both applications by a large majority.

“Our national policy is to support renewable energy but we hadn’t discussed how we might implement it at a local level,” said Jill Wareham, prospective parliamentary candidate for the Liberal Democrat party on the Island. “Cheverton was fairly contentious but what we feel is that we have to do something now.

“It’s all very well saying offshore and marine turbines are better but we feel we should be acting now. And they (the wind turbines) are not going to be there forever. Young people are generally supportive and they’re the ones who are going to be here – not us.”

At a meeting this week experts gave presentations to party members on wind, wave, hydro, solar, gasification and anaerobic

digesters.

Members also supported the idea that the Island could be an unparalleled centre of excellence for research, development, experimentation and implementation of renewable energy systems.

Jill continued: “We feel passionate about our Island, our young people and the future of our planet. We believe the council’s vision of Eco Island is just that - a vision; their target of 10% renewable by 2010 is way off the mark. Our members have agreed on a number of proposals, which include supporting wind turbines on the Island plus the development and implementation of other renewable technologies.

“In order to meet the challenges of climate change, fossil fuels running out and the knowledge that our gas and oil supplies coming from unreliable sources we recognise the need to take action urgently,” she added.

THE EYE-CATCHING yacht moored in Sandown Bay for a couple of days last weekend used to belong to Roman Abramovich, multi-millionaire owner of Chelsea Football Club.

No one was sure who was on board, and why it had suddenly decided to drop anchor in such a public spot. But there were rumours that Dragon’s Den panelist Duncan Bannatyne may have been spending time on it during his flying visit to Sandown.

Le Grand Bleu’s arrival in Sandown Bay was not without mishap. In the Solent, the mega-yacht made contact with the Prince Consort buoy off Cowes. It suffered slight paint damage, and THV Patricia was sent to to ensure there was no serious damage to the buoy.

The highly impressive Le

Grand Bleu is one of the largest private yachts in the world at 370 feet in length.

It was built at the Vulkan yard in Bremen, Germany, and was launched in 2000.

Previously owned by John McCaw Jr., an American businessman, it was sold to Russian Abramovich in 2002. He had it refitted to his own preferences by HDW in Kiel, Germany, which included an internal refit and the addition of a 16ft swim platform.

In June 2006, Abramovich “gave” Le Grand Bleu to friend Eugene Shvidler, who maintains ownership of Le Grand Bleu.

The vessel is powered by two 3,600-hp Wärtsilä engines. Details about the interiors are scanty as Abramovich is protective of his family’s privacy and highly security conscious.

USE FOR SEAWEED

UNSIGHTLY seaweed, washed up on Shanklin beach during freak weather conditions, is at least being put to good use on the Island.

Shanklin sand became engulfed in several feet of seaweed, brought in on the tide following strong winds.

Neil Cole, who began working on Shanklin beach when he was just eight, and has had a deckchair pitch since 1976, described the conditions as among the worst he could remember.

But the IW Council acted swiftly to remove the seaweed, much of which

will be used by local farmers to improve their soil.

Edward Giles, IW Council cabinet member for environment and neighbourhoods, said: “As a result of weather and tide conditions, a large quantity of seaweed was washed up on to the beach at Shanklin.

The council is currently in the process of removing this and local farmers have agreed to take the seaweed for use as fertiliser.

“We are pleased to have been able to resolve this issue swiftly - and also to the benefit of local farming.”

www.iwgazette.co.uk

10

NEWS

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

THE HOUSE THAT TWITTERS

A 16TH-CENTURY cottage in Southdown Lane Ventnor has been reinvented for the 21st century by sending its own messages on the Twitter social networking system.

Despite its thatched roof, it sports many things to please gadget enthusiasts such as sensors to control temperature, lights and even the heated bathroom towel rail.

The whole idea of this “smart” house arose because of efforts to cut electricity consumption, explained owner Dr Andy StanfordClark, who described the cottage’s hidden special features, including the ability to receive a text message to switch on the reindeer Christmas lights in the front garden.

An engineer and inventor working with IBM, he addressed a session at the British Science Association’s Festival of Science yesterday on the subject: The house that twitters.

The house boasts about 700 Twitter “followers” who

get regular updates about how hot the greenhouse is, or whether a door or window has been left open.

Then there are the notices every time the occupants consume another 100 litres of water, or the tweets that tell followers another fiver’s worth of electricity has been used up.

Hoping to save money by using less electricity, Dr Stanford- Clark began to install wireless sensors on windows and doors, and others on light switches and heating systems.

As his project grew he installed devices to monitor electricity and water consumption and built electronic mouse traps to catch unwanted guests should they appear.

All these were overseen by a small computer, which could receive messages sent from his mobile phone to enact orders to turn on the water fountain or switch off the living room lights or television. “You can save yourself pounds) five a night if you turn things off,” he said. “In theory, I

could control anything in the house.”

He built more intelligence into the cottage, for example having the study send him a greeting on his arrival, provided, of course, his Bluetooth phone was on.

At this stage the electricity savings were building up. “I have reduced it [consumption] by about a third,” he declared. “The system basically paid for itself in less than a year.”

What better way to proceed then but to put the house itself online by having sensors send out Twitter announcements to the wider world.

This social networking system allows short 140-character messages to be sent by computer or mobile, and those so inclined can declare themselves as “followers”, receiving these notices as a way to keep up with the sender.

Celebrities attract thousands of followers, but the house managed about 700, more, Dr Stanford-Clark points out ruefully, than he managed to attract himself.

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

11

CHARIOTS OF FIRE

FIRE raged through a double garage of a property in Whiteley Bank, destroying a top of the range 1995 Aston Martin 550 Vantage and a Bentley Continental GT. Firefighters were called to the home on Monday afternoon, where three appliances and up to 16 firefighters put out the fire, which quickly took hold.

“I think the firefighters that quickly arrived from Shanklin are fantastic. They were here

within minutes. Any longer and the house would have gone up. It shows the importance of having a local fire station,” said homeowner Paul Sturrock.

“I tried to put it out myself with a fire extinguisher and got a hose and left it running under the cars - under the petrol tanks.

“I did my utmost to save my home. That was my main worry. I went outside because I couldn’t breathe any longer

and the heat was immense.

Then the firemen arrived and I was put on oxygen for about an hour and a half. They really do a superb job. I also want to thank the paramedics who arrived at the scene and stayed with me to make sure I was okay, because I didn’t want to go to hospital.”

“I spent over half a year looking for it (the Aston Martin). It’s a very rare car – it was my pride and joy.”

Above the garage was a playroom, which was also damaged, and luckily there was nobody in the house at the time of the fire.

“There were loads of things that were destroyed that we can’t replace – things the children have made and their toys.

“I’ve lost a model plane that my grandad gave me as a kid – and I can never replace it, it was unique and priceless to me,” said Mr Sturrock.

WHERE WAS RYDE RESCUE?

THERE were problems at Ryde Illuminated Carnival last Saturday when Ryde Inshore Rescue were prohibited from leading the parade. Chairperson, Michaela White said: “Ryde Inshore Rescue would like to apologise to all of their friends and supporters for not being able to thank them as usual during the Ryde illuminated Carnival on Saturday.

We were scheduled to attend, however, due to the position we were given in the procession,

it would not have been possible for us to react in a suitable time frame had we received a request from the coastguard to launch to the aid of someone in trouble on the Solent.

“We are normally allocated a position somewhere near the front so we can still maintain a good response time, but even after negotiation with the Carnival Committee, we had to make that difficult decision to pull out. We know and understand that the

Carnival in a community event, but we cannot and will not put lives at risk by delaying a launch”.

Jonathan Lamb,Chairman of Ryde Carnival Association said: “Everyone likes a bit of variety and as Ryde Inshore Rescue had been very close to the front of the main procession (position 4) we allocated them a place near the rear (position 34) in the Illuminated procession.

Upon arrival that evening they disputed this placement, arguing

that they would be unable to escape from the parade in an emergency if caught up in the vortex of the dissipating crowd.

In the subsequent negotiations they were offered position 19, well within the first half of the parade, which eventually comprised 42 entries including late arrivals. They would not accept this, holding out for a place in the first 10.

We were very disappointed when they decided to pull out.

There was no need for it. It would have been no more difficult to escape in an emergency from position 19 than from position 9. Ryde Inshore Rescue is a popular and highly respected group of brave men and women and deserve our respect. They are also a disciplined body, who should be capable of acting under instruction.

We would welcome them back in any future carnival, but they must accept, as everybody else does, the Procession Officer’s instructions.

NEWS

www.iwgazette.co.uk

12

NEWS

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

RYDE TOWN HALL TO BE SOLD?

RYDE Town Hall is now under offer according to the council, and no longer open to new bidders.

According to our sources the property is for sale, however two offers have been made and no further discussions will take place with any other interested party. If the sale does not take place the property will be back on the market.

Isle of Wight Council Deputy Leader George Brown said: “The process to identify a preferred bidder for Ryde Theatre is a commercially confidential

one and therefore we cannot comment on the identity of those who have expressed an interest in running or purchasing the theatre.

“However, a full report on the future of Ryde Theatre will form part of a Cabinet report in the coming months once negotiations have been completed.”

We were also informed that a very precious organ forms part of the fixtures and fittings of the building.

According to sources this organ could be worth up to £200,000 and a recent

offer was made for the instrument.

Isle of Wight Council Head of Property Services Barry Cooke said: “Several years ago, representatives from Quarr Abbey approached the council wishing to explore the possibility of purchasing and subsequently moving the organ at Ryde Theatre to the Abbey.

“However, the Abbey decided not to pursue this proposal and the council has not received any subsequent offers or enquiries about the organ”

How Ryde Town Hall might look

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

13

SWIM ATTEMPT HALTED Hospice

PLUCKY Richard Beardsall’s attempt to swim solo around the Island ended in frustration after he spent more than 18 hours in the water, covering 50 miles non-stop.

Richard had to contend with rough seas and strong winds, which eventually took their toll.

After swimming for a staggering 18 hours, covering 50 miles non-stop, the tides turned against him and a highlyfatigued Richard had to be pulled from the water before completing the challenge.

The 44-year-old was hoping it would be third time lucky. The Islander first attempted to swim two years ago, covering 41 miles before being beaten by fatigue and tide. Then last year he was hit by appalling weather conditions that limited him to 33 miles.

Even so, he has still raised more nearly £1,400 for the Island-based UKSA’s projects with Medina House School to give even more young people the opportunity to experience a new environment, meet new challenges and develop skills for life.

In his latest attempt, Richard entered the water on Saturday at 9.26pm and ended his swim in Sandown bay at 14.45pm on Sunday. He faced winds of around 14 knots from the west, reducing to 8-10 knots from the south west throughout the challenge.

With the tide turning against him at Sandown it was calculated the swim would take at least another six hours and so the decision was taken by the support team to pull him from the water.

Jon Ely, Chief Executive at UKSA was with Richard throughout the whole challenge, and said: “What

News

Hospice Fundraising: Telephone - 528989 Your chance to parachute for the Hospice

Richard achieved was truly amazing. The distance he swam was equivalent to swimming the channel twice. He has shown that if you have a dream you should go for it and we are delighted that he attempted this phenomenal challenge for UKSA.” Richard was helped in his challenge by a group of supporters that included pupils from Ventnor Middle School, a group of volunteers, Southampton VTS and the Solent Coast Guard. Richard was also heavily supported along the way, with a canoeist, fishermen who took in their nets to let him pass, spectators all the way along the coastline, and a helicopter.

This is how his amazing attempt unwound during his 18-hour marathon: Saturday: 7.30pm: a seal swims past

the boat just as Richard gets into the water.

9.26pm: Ryde Pier and a quiet swim in flat water.

Ventnor school children take a trip afloat to help him on his way.

12.00am: In Cowes Richard faces rough seas and fresh winds making progress hard work.

Sunday: 04.15am: swimming between the Needles rocks, lit only by the moon!

06.00am: St Catherine’s Point – Richard faces very rough water and boat stands close by.

2.45pm: after 18 hours of swimming Richard reaches Sandown Bay and swims close to the Beach. The tide has turned against him and the back-up team estimates the swim will take until 9.00pm to finish. So he is reluctantly pulled from the water.

THE ISLAND’S Hospice still has some places available for its final parachute jump trip this year to Salisbury airfield on October 31.

In the last two years thousands of pounds has been raised by hospice supporters who have taken part in sponsored tandem parachute jumps.

If you are interested in doing a tandem parachute jump please call the fundraising team on 528989. They can answer all your questions and provide you with a fundraising pack and sponsor forms. All we ask is that you raise a minimum of £365 in sponsorship – this will cover your jump and include a donation to the Hospice. A deposit of £100 will need to be received by the hospice prior to the jump.

to use, and the savings made from switching off appliances that are often forgotten, such as lights and computers. Because users can see the amount of energy being used, they can take more control of how much they spend.

The Standby Saver works like a multi-plug socket, and can help to reduce electricity bills by up to £33 a year. The saver detects when you switch off your TV with the remote control.

It automatically cuts the power to everything else that is plugged in, saving electricity that would be wasted on standby. Once the TV is turned on, all the other appliances are ready to use again.

Chair of the group, Valli Van Zijl, said: “The interests of our residents are at the centre of what we do. By collaborating with suppliers, our residents and staff, we can support people in our communities and help to reduce our collective impact on the environment.”

So far 90 new homes have been awarded EcoHomes excellent standard, and over 90 percent of existing homes have met the Decent Homes standard for better energy efficiency.

The Strategy identifies how the Group will: • Achieve energy efficiency in running its offices,

Friends, Unity Stompers and the Lonesome Valley Boys. As usual, there will be a BBQ from Vectis Sunrise and the Coffee Shop & Gift Shop will be open.

Barton Manor will open at 10am and run until 4pm. There is easy car parking, music, food and a bar. A great day out in this exclusive setting with money raised going to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice.

Barton Manor is located on Whippingham Road in East Cowes. For more information please contact Hospice Fundraising on (01983) 528989

Music quiz at Newport football club THE NEXT music quiz at Newport Football Club will be held September 25 at 7.30pm.

There is no need to book your place, simply turn up and play.

The cost is £10 for a team of 4. There will be a prize for the winning team and a raffle during the evening. All the proceeds go to the Hospice.

“Hospice Go Yellow Day” fundraising packs now available

GREEN GADGET GIVEAWAY

THE SOUTHERN Housing Group is offering green gadgets worth £60 to each of its 3,143 social rent homes on the Island, to try and help residents reduce electricity costs and help the environment.

The group has teamed up with British Gas to give away Real Time Electricity Monitors and Standby Savers, which enable residents to monitor and subsequently reduce their electricity use.

The giveaway complements the group’s environmental sustainability strategy, towards a greener 2011.

The free monitor allows residents to see how much electricity costs

NEWS

Barton Manor fashion and beauty open day THE NEXT Barton Manor open day is on Sunday September 20 maintaining residents’ with the theme being Fashion & homes and developing new Beauty. There will be a selection of great clothes, accessories and properties • Work to tackle fuel beauty products. There is also live music from Nick Cane and poverty • Improve the social and economic sustainability of its neighbourhoods by taking ownership of environmental issues • Raise awareness and promote behavioural change in individuals, communities and staff

HOSPICE Go Yellow Day is on Friday October 9 – we’re asking everyone to take part by wearing, doing or making something yellow and giving a donation to the Island’s Hospice. We’ve got a fundraising pack suitable for everyone so if you would like to “Go Yellow” please give the fundraising team a call.

All Island schools should now have received their own fundraising packs with lots of ‘yellow’ ideas for some fun-fundraising within schools.

Businesses too can be sent their own fundraising packs with details of how to enter a fundraising competition to win £1000 of radio advertising. If YOUR business would like a fundraising pack full of good ideas for fundraising on Friday October 9th please give the fundraising team a call on 528989.

www.iwgazette.co.uk

14

FEATURE

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

RYDE CARNIVAL ROCKS! THOUSANDS of people lines the streets of Ryde to watch the flamboyant Ryde Illuminated Carnival.

The spectacular event had people of all ages taking part, with a range of dancers, stilt-walkers, marching

bands, carnival floats-and of course the carnival queens.

Local schools and community groups also joined in with very imaginative themed displays.

This year, Ryde Carnival celebrated its 121st year, and

is thought to be the oldest carnival in the country.

It’s believed that the first English carnivals began on the Island around 1880, in the era of Queen Victoria, and they are as popular now as they have ever been!

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

15

FEATURE

www.iwgazette.co.uk

16

FEATURE

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

THE PERFECT DAY

AS CELEBRATIONS go, there isn’t going to be a bigger bash than your wedding day. It’s the day when you pledge to exclusively love your soulmate – the person with whom you have agreed to spend the rest of your life. So you have to get it just right.

Choose your venue with care.

You can now get married at the location of your reception but is that what you want? It may save you money – a church will want a donation and the larger the church, the larger the donation.

The organist will also need to be paid, the choir will cost extra and it will cost more for flowers too.

At Bourne Hall you can be married in any of three different rooms in the hotel: the large airy drawing room, the more intimate bar room, or the fresh green Cameron Room, which has a draped tunnel leading down to the function/nightclub style outdoor ‘room’ - a clear-

span marquee.

But if you are opting for a marquee or an outside event, Island Marquees have just about every option on the market.

You could choose a stunning traditional canvas marquee, with guy ropes, from their Grays’ Marquees range, a stand-alone clearspan marquee or the

stunning new Capri marquee from America.

For loads of wedding ideas, and to see representatives from many of our advertisers here, make sure you get along to the Bridal Fair at Lakeside Country Park in Rookley on September 27 from 11am until 4pm. Organised by That’s

Service Party Shop in Shanklin, admission and parking are free and at 1pm there will be a catwalk show from Elizabeth Smith bridal gowns.

Our next Bridal Feature will be in our October 9 issue, focusing on Gems’ tenth anniversary Bridal Fair at Cowes Yacht Haven on October 18.

HOW TO ARRIVE IN STYLE IF YOU want to be a princess for the day, you have to arrive at your wedding in the back of a horse drawn carriage with liveried coachman and groom.

Regent carriages of Shanklin have a selection of superb carriages, drawn by award winning carriage horses, and their prices are surprisingly reasonable.

For your fee you have the use of the carriage for the whole day if you require, with the option to visit a specific location for photographs such as Godshill featured here.

This must be the most

elegant way to arrive - a traditional bespoke carriage, professionally prepared and fully insured with fully qualified and experienced coachmen. You can have an open carriage or a hooded style and decoration with ribbons and flowers is included - the ribbons can be matched to a swatch of your bridesmaid dresses if you wish.

Anniversaries and prom nights are perfect calls for a horse and carriage and they’ve also been used in film work too. Call Regent Carriages on 862984 for further details.

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

CASINO AND CHOCOLATE FOUNTAIN FROM SHUFFLES

IMAGINE the reaction of your wedding guests when you they see and smell rich, creamy Belgian chocolate cascading down a decorative fountain.

With bowls of succulent strawberries, pineapple and grapes, fudge and Turkish delight cubes to dip into the luscious cascade, this would make an ideal alternative sweet or could even be your wedding cake, especially if you opt for white chocolate.

On a beautifully presented light up base surround, a chocolate fountain from Shuffles Events will be the talk of all of your guests.

Their chocolate fountain is arguably the biggest and best make on the market.

Standing 44 inches high, and made from high quality food grade stainless steel, Shuffles only use highest quality Dark, Milk or White Belgian Chocolate in their top of the range fountain.

It’s almost a form of entertainment in its own right. And this month they have a special offer with £100 off of the hire of your

very own fountain.

Shuffles Events are the Island’s leading fun casino operators and can make your reception a cut above the rest with their gaming tables and full casino, giant games such as Connect 4, Jenga and Draughts, chocolate and Champagne fountains, wedding favours and selection of two beautiful wedding cars: a 1993 Rolls Royce Silver Spur and an Excalibur.

The factory original commissioned Excalibur, a real classic not a kit car, is guaranteed to turn heads and will make you feel like a million dollars on this, the most important day of your life. It is a policy of Shuffles to guarantee that each car hired will only be used for you wedding on that day. Therefore you are free to take as much time and as many photos of the car as you wish.

The wedding car comes complete with decorative flowers and wedding ribbons, which are colour co-ordinated and at no extra charge, and bottle

of Champagne. Shuffles rehearse each wedding route approximately two to four weeks prior to the wedding date to ensure there are no road closures

or potential problems that may occur on your special day and suggest you give as much notice as possible.

One fixed rate is quoted for your convenience.

17

FEATURE

www.iwgazette.co.uk

18

FEATURE

CORNISH HONEYMOON FOR GRAHAM AND RACHEL

FRIENDS and family travelled from as far away as Australia to attend the wedding of Graham Shanks and Rachel Brown.

The bridegroom, who works as a Facilities

Officer at the IW College, had good friend, Ian Porteous, as best man.

The bride also works at the IW College as a Catering Tutor, and had Stephanie

Ratje, and her nieces Charlie Jackson and Gabby Strickland as bridesmaids. Morgan Jackson was pageboy for the day.

The wedding took place at St Paul’s

Church on Staplers Road, Newport, followed by a reception at Cowes Corinthian. The couple went on to enjoy a week-long break in Cornwall.

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

19

NEWS

DUNCAN STOPS SANDOWN BUSINESS FROM SLIDING

DRAGONS’ DEN entrepreneur Duncan Bannatyne was back on the Island to unveil the new makeover he has helped with at Sandham Rides in Sandown this week for a new television series.

Outspoken Bannatyne, who started his first business with an ice-cream van costing £450, later selling the business for £28,000, explained that he was working on a new television project. The series looks at seaside attractions – everything from unbalanced books to rickety rides - in the hope of putting faltering seaside attractions back on track.

“The main thing is helping out at the attraction and making it feel warm,” said Duncan. The restoration work on Sandham Rides’ rollercoaster has been done

by Island firm, TG Painting and Decorating.

The Island is one of six different places that Duncan and the team are visiting.

Others are Barry Island in the Vale of Glamorgan, Westcliff Leisure Park in Kent and attractions in Felixstowe, Ramsgate and Torquay.

Duncan explained: “It’s about going back to the old roots of going on holiday in the UK. By helping out at the attraction we are hoping that it will bring more people to Sandown for a holiday.

me was that I found out that I could make money, and that is how I built up my business.”

Sandham Rides attraction owner Ross Edgerton said: “Duncan’s involvement I think has helped us a lot and the television company have put some money into it.

“It’s a bit like the real Dragons’ Den. We are really going to have the edge with the advertising through the television programme.

“If we can get the extra bit of land that we have been promised, we are going to extend the park and Duncan may have something to do with this,” he confided to the Gazette.

“We will put more rides in on the racing theme. We are hoping to get the main part of the park done as soon as we can, before we close for the winter. But we might open for something special over the Christmas festive season.”

“Life is like a pack of cards, and if I hadn’t of turned the corner I could have ended up in prison.”

It’s important to give young people something to do, and this the best way to help kids enjoy themselves.

“When I was young I used to get in a lot of trouble.

Life is like a pack of cards, and if I hadn’t of turned the corner I could have ended up in prison. What changed

20

FEATURE

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

WONDERFUL WOLVERTON

GEOFFREY HUGHES was on hand to help with the very popular auction at Wolverton Manor Garden Fair where a TENA show garden with its summerhouse and aromatherapy plants was first prize.

The fair was hailed as a resounding success with the weather ideal and lots of plant and gardening items on offer from Island and mainland nurseries.

Cookery demonstrations, from top chefs such as father and son duo Mark and Jack Young, from St Helen’s Restaurant, and Charlie Bartlett from the Garlic Farm were also well received.

The Women’s Institute marquee was also a great draw as was the Wight Wildlife marquee. The Elizabethan re-enactment group demonstrated life as it would have been when the manor was built and the Irish band Last Orders brought the proceedings to a festive close on the sunny Sunday afternoon.

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

21

FEATURE

22

FEATURE

Bestival curator and Radio One DJ Rob Da Bank

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

BE HAPPY, BE BESTIVAL!

IT’S BESTIVAL time again and everyone is getting really excited about finishing off the summer with a wonderful weekend of fancy dress and fantastic music.

Crossing our fingers and toes the weather forecast looks pretty fine for the next three days and as we go to press the sun is shining.

Taking a view on the unfortunate rain storms last year the Bestival crew have taken a few measures to make the Bestival experience safer. The biggest of these changes has been to move the main stage into the bigger ‘Outer Space’ field, which is the larger field beyond the woods and before the campsite.

Situated at the higher south west corner of the field, the main stage now much more room in front of it and loads more to do.

In the opposite corner of this field is the Big Top and it also has the ‘Come Dancing’ Spiegeltent, the Pamper Lounge, the Black Dahlia cocktail lounge, Bestival Radio and, wait for it, Pizza Express and designer outlet TK Maxx.

Back just next to where the main stage used to be is the Inflatable Church, the White Wedding Disco and Blastival.

Also in this area are the

Afterburner, The Wonderland Inn, the Big Wheel and the Helter Skelter.

Moving toward the Outer Space field, beyond the lake, are Lost and Found, the Farmer’s Market, Time For Tease, the Bollywood Tent, the Pink Flamingo cocktail bar and the Dressing Up Area.

Just before you go through to Outer Space is the Rizla Arena where the Invisible Players include Jazzie B and Little Boots on the turntables.

Over in the Village are all the usual favourites: The Bandstand, the Bestival Inn, the Sushi Yurt, the Sunday Times, the WI Tea Tent and another Farmer’s Market. And just before you walk into the woods is the Quay Arts Marquee with loads of fun arty ideas. The area stretching down from here to the lake is now out of bounds.

The Magic Meadow has moved to the west, away from the lake and with easier access to ‘Outer Space’. This is where you’ll find the Comedy Tent, the Insect Circus, the Oxfam DIY tent, Save the Children, Nokia Pie and Mash Up and Solace – free coffees, teas and cake from the Island’s Christians.

Column, schmolumn, I’m so tired I can’t think straight, let alone write something intelligible.

And I’m supposed to have set up a workshop at the Bestival – it’s gonna be late mates, that’s all I can say.

Make Bunting Not War started after my breast cancer lumpectomy in 2004. I contacted the nice Bestival people and asked if I could do a fundraising stall for the breast cancer nurses – to raise money for much need equipment in the department.

I was asked if I could make bunting – well anyone can do that can’t they? Could I get a yurt and have bunting flying out from it? Naturellement.

A few weeks later I was installed in a teepee (yurt not forthcoming) and asking Bestival goers to paint a piece of (recycled) fabric and to

add it to the growing lines of flags.

Now I have miles of personally painted bunting from hundreds of Bestivalites and I still have to put all of them up – and it’s Thursday evening…

Last year we joined the Quay Arts marquee, thankfully, and it was a very welcome haven from the rain. If I had been in my tepee at the bottom of the hill I would have surely sailed away.

So if I manage to get up to the site and unload my kit and set up my tables, you’ll find me in the Quay Arts marquee again this year. Do come and find us and paint a flag to add to the Bestival Bunting.

Make Bunting Not War is our motto and you can make a donation to the breast cancer unit if you wish, although it’s not mandatory. They still need another £350k for an intra-operation radiography machine.

And party on dudes.

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

23

FEATURE

www.iwgazette.co.uk

24

NEWS

TRIBUTE TO LUKE COWAN FROM HIS FATHER LARRY

MUM’S THANKS

“I WOULD just like to thank everybody for the love and support they’ve given me throughout the last three months. I would never have got through it without everyone.

“Luke will always be with me even though he’s passed away.

“Thank you everyone for the support on Facebook. I just can’t thank everybody enough.

I wish Luke hadn’t died but I always had a deep-seated

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

THE FATHER of Luke Cowan, Larry, aged 46, of Chale Green, Isle of Wight said: “Luke was a loving and caring son with a bubbly, friendly personality. I remember him as always laughing and joking when he was growing up. He could be mischievous, but was also a deep and thoughtful young man.

“My fondest memories of Luke are the times we spent together when he was a child.

We used to go

fishing regularly at Compton and Yarmouth. Luke always loved camping, and going on holiday to Dorset.

“Luke had a close friendship with his uncle Sammy who

feeling that he’d gone.

“Every ten minutes the door or the phone goes, but it’s lovely.

“I have so many special memories that it’s hard to pick one out. He was just the most beautiful, kind, blue-eyed boy who would do anything for anyone and I love him. He’s irreplaceable. My memories of him will be with me forever. I do believe he’s with me now – I feel him around me.”

died recently at the age of 44. Luke loved my brother very much. They both liked adventure and exploring with Sammy taking Luke and his younger brother Lawrence for nature walks on the Island.

“I felt extremely proud of Luke when he helped to rescue two of my neighbours from a fire in a block of flats. Luke had his hair singed by flames whilst assisting one neighbour on the ground floor. He threw a stone against a window to wake up another neighbour upstairs, and found a ladder so the neighbour could climb down to safety. The neighbours could not thank him enough.

“The full impact of Luke’s death has not hit me yet. I thought he was still alive because I thought he was like me. I had left home when I was 17. I’ve visited the place where his body was found several times, and I’ve been trying to keep my head together by talking to family and friends. I would like to thank them and the Police for everything they have done to support me.

“I hope Luke can be remembered by all those who knew him as a bright, smiling boy who was full of energy.

Wroxall Motors Ltd

Low cost quality car repairs and servicing, MOTs and repairs Electrics Inc ECU code reading, 24 hour breakdown and recovery, clutches, brakes, timing belts, welding, valeting, accident repairs and general bodywork restoration, collection and delivery service, No VAT charged Te l :

01983 855455

Out of Hours Mobile:

07501 475 456

Castle Works, Castle Road, Wroxall Industrial Estate, IOW, PO38 3DS

www.wroxallmotorsltd.com

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

25

NEWS

Have you got a story for the Gazette?

Call our newsdesk now on 409928

LUCID DREAMS OF SUCCESS

TOP Island band ‘Lucid’ performed to over 500 people on Bank Holiday Monday at Rhylstone Gardens, 95% of whom stayed for the whole two hour concert.

The band, consisting of twins Sunny and Blue Brown, Ollie Ducie, Nik Potts and Joe Redston, performed a mixture of their own songs from their last two albums ‘Jigsaw Dreams’ and the latest ‘No Reflection’ and some splendid covers ranging from Michael

Jackson’s Earth Song to Pink Floyd’s Comfortably Numb, and the effortless vocal harmonies had the audience stunned during some songs such as Eva Cassidy’s version of ‘Song Bird’ when you could hear a pin drop.

Lucid have had an extremely busy season, having played at the Old Gaffers Festival, Garlic Festival, Folk Festival, IW Festival, Cowes Week Marina and Parade and next week the Bestival.

They also have two gigs

in London booked for September and November and are at the moment on a week’s tour of Cornwall.

Said spokesman Ollie Ducie ‘Yeah, we have had a busy season, but the gig at Rhylstone topped them all, it really was quite humbling that so many people turned out, we expected 100 maybe 200 at the most, but to have so many people in the audience who had come solely to see us really was overwhelming, and it was great that lots of them

Wide eyed and Legless again

ULTIMATE guitarist to the stars, Andy Fairweather Low, is set to play Ventnor Winter Gardens on September 17 – once again putting Ventnor on the map as the place to see major music talent.

Graham Perks, who is organising this show, said: “I’ve always been a great fan and couldn’t resist the opportunity to bring this great guitarist down to Ventnor. I know it is mid-week but this promises to be a great night.”

Andy rose to prominence in the 1960’s as the front man and guitarist for chart topping teen idol band Amen Corner.

They scored six memorable hits between 1967 and 1969 with ‘(If Paradise is) Half As Nice’ reaching number 1 in January 1969.

‘Wide Eyed & Legless’ is probably Andy’s best known solo hit, released late in 1975.

With Fairweather Low in September and then Johnny & Cleo in October, Ventnor is

sparkling with stars thanks to local business people. Don’t miss out!

Tickets for: Andy Fairweather Low 17th September 17 (£17 or £20 on the night) and Cleo Laine & John Dankworth with Friends on October 30 and 31 (£38) and are available from: The Bar at Ventnor Winter Gardens (Tel: 853336) The Music Shop, Pier Street, Ventnor (Tel: 856200)

took our new CD away with them. Rhylstone have already booked us to do it again next year, so we look forward to that”.

If you would like to see Lucid at the Bestival they are playing at 2.00pm on the bandstand on Sunday, or maybe catch them at any number of pubs they play at around the island.

Anyone can purchase their Cds from their website www.lucidband.co.uk.

Or if you would like to contact Lucid, please telephone 865121.

26

GREEN PAGE

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

GET WARM AND GREEN BY INVESTING IN INSULATION

OUR money is not going as far as it did. Rising domestic fuel prices along with increases in food have put a strain on family finances.

With banks offering pathetically low interest rates just how should you be getting your money to work for you?

The answer could be to spend around £400 and insulate

your home. You will get back your investment within two cold winters and after that you’ll be making money. Loft insulation material is cheap and can be bought from B&Q or any builder’s merchant.

An average loft can easily be insulated for around £90 if you DIY and take advantage of special offers. Alternatively you could pay around £160

under the Footprint Trust’s Warmahome scheme and get someone else to do the dirty work.

How much would you expect to pay for cavity wall insulation for a three-bedroom semi? The answer is only about £200.

Both loft and cavity wall insulation is subsidised and is available to most

householders. You can do your bit for the planet and save yourself a fortune. In some cases those in receipt of allowances and benefits can get insulation free.

Don’t wait until we have a repeat of last year’s freezing weather. Contact the Warmahome project at the Footprint Trust and get details of these offers plus free

guidance on energy efficiency.

Telephone 82-22-82.

You can also come and talk with the Footprint Trust at the Future Energy events taking place in October half term. The Gazette will be going a special ‘monergy’ pullout - focusing on energy saving tips - which you can keep as a handy reference.

Copies of the Gazette will

be available at the events and will be given away by the Footprint Trust at its other activities. We intend to show how the average island family could be saving over £200 a year by being green.

The Gazette wishes to do its bit in helping to fight fuel poverty on the Isle of Wight as well as helping to reduce greenhouse gases.

FAT HARRY’S GO ECO-FRIENDLY

FAT HARRY’S in Sandown have resorted to pedal power in a bid to lower their carbon footprint whilst getting the message across that their fish and chips are the best.

The popular fish and chip shop on Sandown High Street has hired Victor Isac to peddle his way around the Sandown area, towing his self-styled 2” by 5” advertising Fat Harry’s fish and chips.

Enterprising Victor is hoping to attract more customers to use his green machine for advertising their businesses. “Newport

would be ideal,” said Victor although he wasn’t too keen on the idea of cycling around the hills of Ventnor!

“We’re really pleased that Victor has agreed to advertise our shop,” said owner Gary Beaumont who bought the shop 18 months ago. Inside the spacious chippy are sturdy pine tables and ‘Christine Keillor’ style chairs with delicious cooling fans for this end of summer heatwave.

Fat Harry’s pride themselves on their fresh fish and fat Maris Piper

potato chips, but also sell sausages, chicken, burgers, jacket potatoes and a whole range of pies, pasties and savoury puddings. Fish cakes, spare ribs, mini breakfasts and, of course, mushy

peas are on the menu with many other extras.

“People come from all over the Island for my fish and chips,” said Gary who offers a gluten free batter for those with celiac disease.

www.iwgazette.co.uk

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

27

MOTORING

NEW AND OLD MIX AT RALLY SMALLBROOK Stadium, Ryde was the venue for the 18th IW British and Classic Motorcycle Club rally, with over 150 people showing off their prized possessions.

The event, which is held every year, attracts motorcycle enthusiasts to the Island from all across the UK, and some even further afield.

O r g a n i s e r , Chris Church, explained more about one visitor in particular. “We have one guy called Jan, who travels to the Island from Holland each year. He brings along his 300cc single cylinder Panther, and he inspires others to come here as well, which is great,” said Chris.

Malcolm Willis is another frequent visitor to the rally, with his fellow riders Lawrence Tobin and Dave Morgan. “I live in Caerphilly in South Wales, and have been coming down to the Island for 16 years for the motorcycle event. I love the Island and the event is great.

I like to come down to the Island as much as I can and

BY JAMIE WHITE

10 motorcycle rallies. I have always been interested in bikes from a young age and the rally gives everyone a chance to chat about their experiences and compare bikes both new and old. I always bring my 1958 Aerial BB motorcycle, which is a classic!” he said.

“The event is great and the guys work hard to put on a really good weekend for us, and the ride out is the high point of the weekend,” added Dave.

Organisers of the popular rally have now made it so people with bikes both old and new can attend and get involved.

“The feedback we get from visitors is that they are not many event held around the country that cater for bikers of all ages and different aged motorbikes. It is our 18th rally, and in biker terms it is like the coming of age. It is a special weekend in our calendar.

“Everyone enjoys the hog roast, and we have live bands, plenty of beer and we have over 150 people attend.”

“The event is great and the guys work hard to put on a really good weekend for us” the motorcycle event gives me another good reason to,” said Malcolm.

“I go to about 12 other rallies a year around the country but I think this is my favourite. We enjoy going out on the rally and take in some of the wonderful sights on the Island. We just come down for 3 days and 2 nights.

“My trike is made up from several parts. The engine is a 1962 VW Beetle, and I can get top speeds of up to 90mph,” he added.

Lawrence has also been coming to the rally for several years. “I first came to the Island as a part of the boys brigade when I was 15 and have been coming back ever since. I’ve been to the last

N m ew ar t ke o t

re Pr du ic ct e io n

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

28 WHITESMITH RD, NEWPORT - £169,000

FIELD PLACE, NEWPORT £135,000

• Three Bedrooms • Garden • Sun Room • Patio • Shower Room • Off Road Parking

• Large Garden • Two Bedrooms • Close To Schools • Two Reception Rooms • Convenient Location • Central Heating A period terraced house, which has been renovated to provide a delightful home with two double bedrooms, fitted kitchen, living room, dining room, shower room and large garden.

N m ew ar t ke o t

A spacious semi-detached family home, convenient for Newport and Cowes with three bedrooms, three reception rooms, ample parking, & gardens. Located close to Parkhurst Forest & near to walks on the Medina River.

st Ne ru w ct io n

FEATURE

www.iwgazette.co.uk

in

28

ROSEWOOD, HAVENSTREET - £195,000

CARLTON ROAD, RYDE £165,000

• Off Road Parking • Village Location • Two Bedrooms • Two Reception Rooms • Large Plot 300Ft • Mature Gardens

• Three Bedrooms • Garden • Off Road Parking • Fitted Kitchen • Open Plan • Gas Central Heating

Rosewood is a delightful period cottage which has been extensively renovated. it benefits from two bedrooms, two reception rooms, double glazing, central heating and a large mature garden.

A Victorian semi-Detached House which offers accommodation to include living room, dining room, kitchen, three bedrooms, bathroom with separate shower and garden.

OSBORNE ROAD, RYDE £224,950 • Stamp Duty Paid • Two Reception Rooms • Enclosed Rear Garden • Double Glazing • Off Road Parking This well proportioned Victorian home comprises four bedrooms, two reception rooms, kitchen/diner, bathroom, garden and off road parking. It has been maintained to a very high standard.

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

29

FEATURE

George Michael Tribute

www.iwgazette.co.uk

30

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

SPORT Threesome at the Crown Rough seas scupper Ryde’s bid for glory

FRESHWATER BAY Golf Club activities began with a three ball scramble, and first place went to Sammi Keen, Lucy Burke & Kev Garrett with a net 55.9 proving that the fairer sex can play scrambles.

In second place with nett 58.55 was Russell Macgregor, Gary Holmes & Robbie Faulkner, while third place was filled by Paula Burke, James Burke and Tony Jones a mere 0.35 of a shot behind.

The Veterans Stableford saw only one player beat par and the competition being declared Reductions Only with the CSS rising to 70. John Whitehouse (24) was rewarded for his 39 point win by having his handicap

slashed by two shots.

With the scores going forward to the Ogle Tankards Peter Marsden increased his lead by four points to 210 while Jim Payne and Dennis Smith stayed put on 205 and 204 respectively.

In the Seely Cup, restricted to players of 20 handicap and lower, Mike Black (15) ran out the winner with a nett 64 beating 11-handicapper John Burke on the back nine.

The week was completed with a fun four ball scramble with the winning team of Miles Oldershaw, Tony Keen, Ian Ball and Sammi Keen scoring a nett 52.75 ahead of second placed Kev Garrett, Bill Hinchen, Nick Punter and John Sexton on 54.

TOM’S EPIC VOYAGE

A SHANKLIN teenager is among the crew members taking part in the final leg of the Ellen MacArthur Trust Skandia Round Britain Voyage of Discovery.

Tom Battram, 14, is on board for the journey from Torquay back to Cowes which got underway on Monday. When they crew arrive back on the Island it will be the conclusion of a 2,000-mile nautical trip around Britain that began earlier in the summer.

Tom had previously sailed with the Trust during his recovery from Hodgkins Disease and knew what to expect from the sailing experience that the Trust has to offer to young people recovering from cancer and leukaemia.

Before setting off, Tom said: “I’m really looking forward to going sailing again, and missing a bit of

school!”

During The Ellen MacArthur Trust Skandia Round Britain Voyage 85 young people across 17 legs have helped sail the 48ft ‘Scarlet Oyster’ around Britain.

Having departed from Cowes on May 3, the voyage headed east around Britain stopping at 17 ports, including Dover, London, Ipswich, Hull, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Inverness, Largs (Glasgow), Belfast, Liverpool, Cardiff, Torquay and Southampton The epic voyage will come to an end in Cowes tomorrow, September 12.

The Trust was set up by round-the-world yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur in 2003 to try to inspire young people’s cancer recovery through sailing. Ellen sailed on several of the legs.

IT WAS a disappointing day of racing for the Ryde Rowing Club competing at this year’s South Coast Championship Regatta held at Folkestone on behalf of the Coast Amateur Rowing Association.

The conditions were very difficult and almost unrowable and favoured the Coast ARA clubs who were more accustomed to the conditions than the clubs that compete in the Hants & Dorset ARA, which includes the IW. Ryde’s Men’s Senior Crew of Russell Page, Mike Jenner, Nick Pike and Ian Hayden with Cox Bryony Reeve had once a again been selected to represent their association in the premier event of the day

- the Mens Senior Fours - giving the club regional representative honours for the sixth time in seven years at this level.

However their preparation was disrupted through illness and injury, resulting in a fourth place finish for the team.

The Men’s Novice Crew of Donát Debreceni, Curtis Lowe, John Gedling and James Cleary with Dale Buckett coxing raced well in their heat to take a place in the final where, in spite of a good row they also finished in fourth place.

The best result from any of the Island based crews came from Ryde’s Boys J13 Coxed Quad, who were almost certainly the youngest crews in the

Regatta as they were racing in the Boys J14 Coxed Quad event - a year above their age group. The crew of Max Reeve, Dale Buckett, Sam Corney and Christian Lacey with experienced cox Tom Clark racing over the shorter 1000m Junior Regatta course and in their first race at this level stormed of the start taking an early lead.

It seemed unlikely they would be able to maintain against their older and larger opposition and bearing in mind the very difficult conditions prevailing. But it was only the much more experienced BTC crew that were able to get past them and even then this was by the narrowest of margin of

just half a length with the young Ryde crew in second place, comfortably ahead of the other Crews in the race.

Also competing in the Junior Regatta was Bryony Reeve who was given special permission by the race officials to race with a Lymington Girls J16 Coxed Quad who were one short through injury, the crew finishing in fourth place.

The Coastal season is now over for another year and the club can be reasonably satisfied with a season that saw them win three Hants & Dorset Championships and as runners-up in two more with twenty-seven Championship points won by the club and association representative honours for the Men’s Senior Four.

TEENAGER Ffleur Harris is celebrating after she explained how her show hunter pony Luci, beat the odds to qualify for this year’s prestigious Horse of the Year Show.

What makes Ffleur and Luci’s journey so extraordinary is that the pony suffered a badly broken leg when she was kicked, and it was feared she would never be ridden again. But after months of nursing and rehabilitation, Luci, who stands 13 hands, and her rider Ffleur, who just stands proud, will be off once again to the world’s most famous horse show.

Ffleur, 14, won her qualifier for the event at the National Pony Society summer championships against some older and more experienced competitors. She said: “A couple of years ago Luci was badly injured, and at times it looked like she would never be able to be ridden again.

“It has been a very hard time with a lot of nursing, worry, tears and many days of sadness. But we battled on, and I finally got to ride her- and what a lovely feeling that was!”

Being able to get back on to Luci was a big step, both physically and mentally, as Ffleur explained: “It was also to be the beginning of the next chapter of our journey together for Luci’s rehabilitation.

Trying to overcome both psychological and physical barriers was not easy,

and there were concerns in the Horse of the Year whether she could ever be Show 2007, and amazingly we won our Show Hunter shown again.”

Ffleur’s determination to Pony of the Year group.

“Last year was a bad nurse her beloved horse back to full fitness paid year for us, and my family off when she was crowned gave up so much for me to Supreme of Show in their compete in the shows. We first comeback event, and had some really bad luck, then went on to record a the car broke, the trailer gave up win at the on us, and Horse of “There were more the Year tears this time, but it seemed I would Show. “ T h e r e they were of joy. Luci never get were more was back in action” to prove what a tears this time, but they were of joy. true star she really is.

“But we never gave Luci was back in action,” said Ffleur. “We decided up trying and our year to travel to Towerlands in got better when we won championship Essex to compete in the national SEIB ‘Search for a ‘Star, titles at British Show Pony and to our joy she won. Society & National Pony Championships, And then we took part Society

which was fantastic.”

This year is Ffleur’s last year on Luci and she wants to end on a high. They have had recent success at the Horse of the Year Show qualifier against a very strong line-up.

“We are now preparing Luci for the event with regular training sessions on the mainland. We have been on such a journey together and against all the odds my dreams have come true and continue to do so thanks to my family, friends, and Wightlink Ferries for helping with travel, and of course my pony, who always gives her best no matter what.” said Ffleur.

FFLEUR ON TOP FORM

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

www.iwgazette.co.uk

BIG LOTTO GRANT BENEFITS ALL

THE IW council has secured funding from the Big Lottery via Sport England to install new equipment at sporting venues across the Island.

A grant of £150,000 grant has enabled the council to provide new goalposts, scoreboards, electronic timekeeping equipment, team shelters, badminton equipment, table tennis tables and tennis, athletics, volleyball and golf equipment. The equipment has come in a variety of

forms, from new hammer cages to Olympic standard hockey goals.

The equipment is being used at Medina Leisure Centre, Rew Valley Sports Centre, East Cowes Multi-Use Games Area, the Fairway Sports Complex and facilities across Ryde.

The athletics equipment is of international standard and will be used to support Island athletes in the lead up to the 2011 Natwest Island Games which are being hosted on the Island in two

years time.

Cllr George Brown, IW council cabinet member with a responsibility for leisure said: “This funding has enabled us to provide brand new equipment to centres across the Island which can be enjoyed by a wide variety of sporting groups and individuals.

“The council is keen to promote healthy lifestyles and this additional equipment will enable more people to participate in sporting activities.”

ABRUPT END FOR BRADING

GOALS from Matt Evans and Darren Powell earned Newport all three points in their Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division against Christchurch.

The home side opened the scoring on 15 minutes after some build up play from Iain Seabrook and Charlie Smeeton, before the ball fell to Darren Powell who headed it home.

The away side had the chance to draw level when they were awarded a penalty after a foul by Craig Insley, but goalkeeper Gary Streeter

made a good save to keep the visitors at bay.

Newport then doubled their lead in first half injury time when Powell set up Evans to knock in from close range to seal the win.

In Division One, East Cowes Vics suffered a 3-1 home defeat against Downton.

Liam Weller looked to have provided a lifeline for Vics when he made it 2-1, but the away side ensured they took nothing from the game as they made it 3-1 late on.

Cowes Sports sailed in to the next round of the

FA Vase trophy as they beat Almondsbury UWE 2-1, thanks to goals from Joe Butchers and a Gareth Bricknall penalty.

The Yachtsmen looked comfortable with their lead and pulled one back in injury time, but Cowes held on to the lead to clinch the win.

Brading Town’s FA Vase run came to an abrupt end as they were swept aside 4-1 at Holyport. The team from Maidenhead proved to strong for the Romans, with Darren Williams getting the visitors’ consolation goal.

31

SPORT

GET IN THE HOLE!

JOSH ODDY has become the youngest ever golfer to score a hole in one at Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club- at the age of just 11.

Josh, who lives in Ventnor, achieved the remarkable feat on the difficult, elevated green at the fifth hole of the popular, but tricky course.

“I took the seven iron from my bag and I struck it sweetly. I hit it off the white tees, which is 143 yards away from the hole, “ said jubilant Josh.

“Because it is an uphill shot it’s very tricky and the green is quite small. I knew it was pretty close to the hole but when I got up there I realised it was in the hole. I just couldn’t believe it.”

The Ventnor Middle School pupil had attended a county coaching session earlier in the day, with the club’s professional Peter Hammond.

He explained: “I am in the Hampshire U13 team and also part of the IW Zone. Every other month they hold a coaching session here at the club, before we go out to play. I suppose Peter might say his coaching was key in getting the hole in one!”

Josh has been playing golf for six years with friends and his father Steve, who is also a keen golfer.

He added: “I was playing with my friends Connor and Mikey at the time and they couldn’t believe it either. It is the first time I have ever scored a hole in one, it was a great feeling.”

FIRESTARTERS HAVE FINGERS BURNT

THE PATCHED up Wightlink Islanders got their fingers burnt in a close run match with the Plymouth Devils, as they went down 45-48.

The homeside, who were missing five key riders, came close to pulling off what would have been a shock National Trophy victory over the Plymouth Devils at the Wave105.2FM stadium.

The match went down to a last heat decider but nobody could belittle the brave efforts put up by Islanders skipper Nick Simmons and his men who went down fighting for every single point throughout the fifteen heats.

The Islanders were unlucky to lose the match, especially after recent signing Matt Wright suffered a cruel

engine failure on the last bend of heat five, gifting Plymouth rider Paul Starke third place even though he was some way adrift of Wright heading for the chequered flag.

More bad luck followed for the home side when teenager Ben Hopwood ground to a halt on the last lap whilst way ahead in heat nine, which instantly turned

what would have been a 4-2 heat advantage into a similar score in favour of the visitors.

Despite those two moments of heartache there was just a point separating the sides going into the very last heat with Plymouth leading 44-43, and the match points still very much in the balance.

As the tapes rose, Plymouth’s Kyle Hughes jetted into the lead, and battling skipper Simmons simply could not catch him.

Wightlink Islanders team manager Kevin Shepherd said afterwards, “We really deserved something out of this match tonight, but we had no luck at all, and that just about sums up how it’s been for us as a club over the past six weeks or so.

“We’ve now got to put our disappointment behind us and focus on our next match away at Weymouth in the National Trophy on Saturday (September 12).

And if we ride as well as we did tonight, then we will win-mark my words!”

www.iwgazette.co.uk

32

SPORT

the gazette

Sport

The Gazette, Friday, September 11, 2009

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

SKATING TO SUCCESS

BY JAMIE WHITE YOUNG figure skaters from the Island have been gliding to success across Britain and Europe.

The Wight Jewels junior team, formed last year, consists of youngsters aged between 12 and 19 have won both the Scottish and British title, and incredibly European success in Russia where they picked up a silver medal.

Last season the team moved to the highest level in synchronised skating, and won all the major competitions in the Scottish opens and the British Championships. The team also travelled to Switzerland to compete, where they returned with gold.

The Wight Jewels are currently undefeated and have high hopes of achieving enough scores to represent Great Britain at the World Championships next year in Sweden.

There has also been success for the junior team, Wight Crystals, which is made up of young ice skaters aged between eight and 12. The last two seasons have seem them finish as both British and Scottish champions, as well as achieving gold medal success in their first international competition in Switzerland earlier this year.

A newly formed team, Wight Gems, will be competing for the first time in Scotland in next month at preliminary level. The team is made up of new skaters who have

The Wight Jewels junior team show off their success recently joined and can be any age and level skater.

The teams train several times a week at the Planet Ice Arena, Ryde and also travel to Basingstoke before competitions to train on a full size rink, which means a late night for the skaters as they can only get the rink between 10pm and 2am.

IW synchronized ice skating coach, Terri Smith, is delighted with the progress with the teams.

She said: “All my skaters are extremely dedicated and work hard through training sessions on and off the ice every week. They do the Island immensely proud and their team spirit is second to none.”

Terri admitted that the skaters have to work harder before competitions because the rink at the Ryde arena is smaller than their competitors.

She added: “Because of the size of our ice pad their skaters are disadvantaged, because all competitions are on full size pads

(30m x 60m), where ours is only 22m x 40m.

“Therefore this involves extra strength, power and intelligence from the skaters. They really are fantastic and are a great asset to the Island and deserve all the credit they get. At the moment the team is self funded.”