IW Gazette 46

gazette the isle of wight

REPORTING ISLAND NEWS

A WHITWELL couple were left devastated as their barn conversion home was gutted by fire.

George Glover Snr. and his wife Pat returned from a function in Shanklin to find their house in ruins despite fire fighters battling for many hours to bring the blaze under control.

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Nokia turn Newport White

Nokia goes down a snowstorm at Seaclose Park

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FAMILY HOME LOST IN BLAZE

NEWS It’s a Time to Remember

The annual hospice remembrance service at Newport minster

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WEDDING OF HIRST & IRWIN NO

FALLON CASSANDRA HIRST & Robert Irwin were married at St Mildred’s Church Whippingham.

A reception followed at the Hotel Ryde Castle, the venue of the bride’s grandparents reception in 1949. Ryde’s new town cryer, Mr Steve King greeted the newly-weds at the reception.

The groom, son of Mr and Mrs Kevin Irwin, is a Corporal in the King’s Royal Hussars and has served in Northern Ireland and Iraq. Best Man for the day was Christopher Irwin, the groom’s brother.

The bride, daughter of Cllr Ian and Mrs Sandra Stephens, wore an ivory silk

dupion dress embellished with lace and Austrian crystal beading, with a short veil and Austrian crystal tiara.

She was attended by her best friend Claire Jones who was Maid of Honour, and wore a burgundy chiffon maxi dress with ivory bolero.

The three flower girls, Alisha Wicks, Eva Graham, and Kyesha Allen all wore burgundy dresses with ivory boleros and had ivory rose head dresses. Pageboy was Max Graham and Ushers were Simon Cornish, Jacob Downer and Stephen Jerram.

Guests were greeted at the church by carols played by members of the Cowes

British Legion Band.

The couple were accompanied by a Guard of Honour, Cpl G Allan, Cpl D Campbell, Cpl T Agyekum & LCpl D Thomas. There was a reduction in the Guard of Honour due to operational requirements in Afghanistan.

Reverend Jonathan Hall conducted the service, and St Mary’s Singers directed

by Carol Baker sang from the gallery. Readings were given by the groom’s sister Holly Irwin and the bride’s grandmother, Mrs Beryl Johnstone.

The bride and groom will be enjoying their honeymoon in Paris in January 2010.

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

SHORTAGES HERE

AS THE first cold snap of the winter gripped the Island this week, the IW Council reassured residents it has a full stockpile of salt to combat icy roads.

Despite reports suggesting a national shortage of salt, the Council revealed it currently has around 800 tonnes immediately available for use in a sustained cold spell.

With this amount the Council is capable of coping with at least 20 days of continuous freezing conditions and the authority also has an ongoing arrangement with its contractor to replenish stockpiles when necessary.

Though the amount leaves the council well positioned to treat its roads during any freezing conditions, it has also repeated advice to motorists to take extra care when driving during cold weather.

The council has six precautionary salting routes which gritters follow when they are deployed, as well as 11 snow clearing routes to help ensure highways are

kept clear of snow and ice.

A new fleet of gritting vehicles which are more technologically advanced than previous lorries were recently unveiled on the Island.

The new vehicles boast

technology such as GPS satellite positioning, alarm systems when the vehicle strays off its route, and equipment that tells the council how much salt is being spread at any one time.

Councillor Edward Giles

PAN HOMES GET COUNCIL GO-AHEAD

THE IW COUNCIL has given the go-ahead for nearly 850 high quality and sustainable new homes to be built on the outskirts of Newport.

The authority’s planning committee gave conditional approval for 846 homes, along with a network of roads, paths and cycleways at Pan. The scheme by the council, in partnership with Spectrum Housing, also includes a country park, public open space, a biomass energy plant to provide heating and hot water to the development and also a visitors’ centre.

The development is seen as a major part of the council’s aim to provide new homes – 254 of which will be

designated as affordable. All homes will be built to meet the requirements of Lifetime Homes and Code Level Four of the Code for Sustainable Homes, making Pan one of the most sustainable developments of its type in the UK. Four developers – Barratt, David Wilson Southampton, Linden Homes Southern, Leadbitter, and a consortium of Rok and Tomicca have been short-listed as potential developers of the 58-acre council-owned site off St George’s Way. The selected developer will be announced in March 2010.

Cllr Dawn Cousins, cabinet member responsible for

housing, welcomed the news that the application had been passed. She said: “The Pan Project is important in so many respects. Not only will it make a significant contribution to our housing and homelessness targets it will also make a telling contribution to our EcoIsland and regeneration aspirations as well as providing most welcome employment opportunities.

“There is much work to be done but this planning approval represents a giant step forward for this groundbreaking scheme that is of great importance not just to Newport to the wider community as well.”

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

NEWS

BLAZE WRECKS HOME

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Left: George and Pat Glover. Below: Firefighters battle the blaze

FIREFIGHTERS from across the Island battled to save a converted barn that caught fire. Over 50 firefighters battled for many hours throughout the weekend to try to save the five-bedroom home in Whitwell.

Newport firefighters were first to arrive to be faced with flames shooting 20 feet into the air, after what is believed to be an electrical fault had started in the roof area of the property.

Station manager Geoff Walls explained that crews battled to stop the fire from spreading to the lower end of the building.

“It took about two hours get under control,” said Geoff.

“One of the hardest parts was the lack of water and we had to drain the owner’s swimming pool. Then we set up a relay using water carriers brought in from Ryde and Freshwater to ferry 7,000 litres of water at a time from nearby Niton.”

Neighbouring residents spent the night without electricity after the power was shut off for fear that the raging blaze could spread to power cables and specialist aerial firefighting equipment was brought to the scene.

Police and fire crews feared that the owners were still in the house so set about a search with crews attempting to enter the building in breathing apparatus. But at the height of the fire crews had to withdraw for fear that the roof would collapse.

Parts of the roof did fall

BY JASON KAY into the upper floors starting further fires. An aerial ladder was brought to help fight the fire from above with crews from Ventnor, Freshwater, Yarmouth and Cowes. The fire was so severe that the building had to be split into sectors and fought from two different locations to try to contain it.

“At one point a structural engineer was called in to check the state of the building,” explained Geoff.

“The professionalism shown by the crews in dealing with

The blaze at its height this incident ensured the fire didn’t spread and that no one was injured.”

Speaking from remains of their home in Whitwell, retired nurse Pat Glover slowly wrapped up the porcelain figure that the fire brigade managed to salvage out of the blaze, while former civil servant George Glover Snr. dealt with the clock specialist in the garage.

Pat explained: “We were out at a function on Saturday to do with the MG and classic cars. We stayed at the hotel

in Shanklin overnight as we don’t like to drink and drive. Our classic car a 1981 Mercedes Benz was luckily locked away in the garage. If it had been parked on the drive we would have lost that as well. They have also managed to save the swimming pool.

“I first found out after I got a phone call from the police and was told there was an incident in a message on my mobile answer phone. I tried to get back in contact with the police, but it went to the answering service. But they couldn’t give me any further information. At first I thought that the house had been burgled.

“I managed to get hold of my son who lives over on the mainland,” said George. “He said to me ‘dad, sit down, I have got some bad news for you and mum. You’ve lost your home’.”

Two grandfather clocks that were rescued from the fire had belonged to George’s father. They were presented to him before he retired from Whitbread and were of great sentimental value.

“All of our friends on and off the Island have been great,” said George. “ There was lots of property damaged from the smoke and the water. The community has been great they have rallied round and shown real community spirit.

“The firefighters managed to save a lot of our belonging belongings but we are going to still have to move out and find some rented accommodation.

We could be out for along as a

year. We are staying in a BB in Shanklin.

“The fire service and the police were excellent. Not only did they do their job and they also had a very personal touch about it as well.”

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

PUPILS QUIZ COUNCILLORS

MEMBERS of Brighstone Primary School Eco-Schools Council had the chance to grill two senior councillors recently and they took full advantage.

IW Council Leader David Pugh and Cllr Peter Bingham - who is responsible for Resources and is also the school’s local ward member - answered a number of questions from the panel at a special meeting which was arranged after the pupils wrote to Cllr Pugh asking to come to County Hall.

There was a wide variety of questions put to the councillors, including asking for tips on how to control noisy meetings and how many rooms are at County Hall, to how the council decides how to spend taxpayers money and what would happen in Brighstone when the school’s reorganisation takes place.

The children, who were accompanied by headteacher Amanda Johnston, were also given a tour of County Hall and were shown the council chamber.

Following the visit, Amanda said: “The children thoroughly enjoyed their visit, particularly the opportunity to view the council chamber and use the

gavel.

“It provided them with an understanding of how their decision making processes compliment those of the IW Council in addition to the ways in which they can support my role of headteacher, in continuing to take the school forward.

“The children have invited Cllr Pugh to their January meeting, where I’m sure he will be grilled even further. The children at Brighstone are extremely reflective and are passionate about improving the school and local community and we are delighted that Cllrs Pugh and Bingham are supporting the children and school in this way.”

Cllr Pugh said: “It was very enjoyable meeting the children from the Eco-Schools Council from Brighstone Primary School.

“They had a wide range of questions and were very interested in the role the council plays on the Island and the job I and my colleagues do, as well Above: Headteacher as the way the council runs on a Amanda Johnson daily basis.

“I am sure they’ll use many of and Ward Councillor the tips they picked up when Peter Bingham, with holding their own Eco-Schools Lauren, George, meetings in future!”

Ellie, Lily & Hannah POLICE on the Island are reminding residents to take simple security precautions to protect their homes during Christmas and New Year.

Safer Neighbourhoods Inspector, Bill Pinnell, said: “We are reminding householders not to gift easy opportunities to criminals in the run-up to Christmas.

“Often, the simplest measures can be the most effective in making life difficult for burglars and potential thieves, so I’m asking residents to double check doors and windows are locked properly, and valuable items are not left in places where they can be seen easily from outside.

“The risk of being burgled here is small as the number of house burglaries on the Island has fallen by 40 per cent over the past five years. Nevertheless, we are reminding Islanders not to be complacent at this time of year when many of us are storing Christmas presents at home.”

Inspector Pennell continued: “Officers from the Island’s dedicated Safer Neighbourhoods teams are patrolling residential and shopping areas during December to provide crime prevention advice and technology, and deter and

BE SAFE, NOT SORRY catch criminals who have the potential to spoil Christmas for the law-abiding majority.”

The ‘Lights On’ burglary prevention campaign also continues during December.

Over 300 timer switches already have been given to residents who are making their homes safer. Please contact us for a timer switch to help deter burglars targeting your property when you’re out. Phone your local Safer Neighbourhoods team on 101.

Police are also reminding homeowners of other simple and innovative security steps to help make homes safer.

• SmartWater: a nonhazardous liquid, which can be used to mark property, or as a spray to shower intruders when they enter premises protected by the system. Each batch has a unique ‘DNA-type’ forensic code, tying its use to a specific location or item of property. Once a suspect has been sprayed, the SmartWater will fluoresce brightly as offenders walk under ultraviolet lights when they’re brought into custody at police stations.

• Keep valuable items out of view – if you have electrical equipment worth hundreds of pounds, don’t keep it by the window where passers-by

can see it.

• Never leave a key under a doormat, or on a string through the letterbox – it’s the first place any burglar will look.

• Make sure tools and ladders are kept in a secure place – burglars will happily use your own garden equipment to break into your home.

• If you’ve taken extra security precautions, let would-be burglars know.

If you have an alarm, make sure the box can be clearly seen. If you take part in a Neighbourhood Watch scheme, display a sticker in your window, and if you have a dog, put up a warning sign.

• Hide financial documents and keys – if someone does break in, you don’t want them to also steal from your bank account, or take your car.

• Make sure you secure all your doors and windows every time you leave the house, even if you are ‘just popping out’.

• If you are in the garden or upstairs, make sure your downstairs doors are locked.

Burglars can often just open the front door and help themselves.

Log onto www.hampshire. police.uk, and click on the ‘Safer Homes’ section for more information.

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

PUGH GOES TO PRISON!

IW COUNCIL leader David Pugh and High Sherriff Gay Edwards both found themselves behind bars recently, but all for a good cause, writes Peter White.

Cllr Pugh and Mrs Edwards were invited along to the Camp Hill complex of the IW Prison to oversee a councilstyle election for prisoners and officers.

Following successful elections at both Parkhurst and Albany, this was the chance for inmates and staff at Camp Hill to make their feelings known on who they wanted to represent them when it came to discussing major issues within the prison.

The election attracted 364 voters, of which more than 300 were prisoners, with the turn out around 52 per cent – far higher than for many local council or even Parliamentary elections.

Mick Hind, head of ‘Measuring Quality of Prison

Life’ at Camp Hill deemed the elections a huge success, as did Cllr Pugh.

Mr Hind said: “Obviously with something of this nature, there were bound to be sceptics. But I think the prisoners now realise that if major issues crop up inside prison, they can now take the matter to the senior management board, who can say yes or no.

“I am able to deal with the smaller day-to-day issues that crop up, but now both prisoners and staff appreciate that as a result of having an elected council, they can now take to people right at the top.”

Mr Hind added: “I think everyone is pleasantly surprised with the outcome. I have never seen anything like this before during my time in the prison service, and I feel it definitely builds a good communication between prisoners and staff, which can only be helpful.”

NEWCLOSE BOOST

High Sheriff Gay Edwards and Council leader David Pugh on their recent visit to HMP Camp Hill IW Council leader Cllr David Pugh, said: “I was pleased to visit the Camp Hill site of HMP IW to talk to them about democracy and the importance of getting involved in elections.

Through their prison council they can give their fellow inmates a say in how the establishment in run.

“Whilst the prisoners do not have the opportunity to vote in public

elections, the introduction of elections to the prison council gives them the chance to participate in democratic activities.

“Hopefully this will help and encourage them become integrated into society, through participation in democracy, when they are released back into their local communities.”

CENTRE GUTTED BY FIRE A FIRE devastated Newport Youth Centre in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Flames ripped through the centre in Lower St James Street at around 12.40am, damaging the building’s kitchen and food preparation area and leaving it unusable.

Firefighters were called after a late night reveller spotted smoke pouring from the building and they spent around three hours dousing the flames.

Police are currently investigating the cause, which is not being treated as suspicious.

No one was injured in the fire.

Hundreds of youngsters use the centre each week for youth groups and community projects.

IW Fire Service station manager Dave Grundy said: “We got a couple of 999 calls from people on their way home from a party who passed by

NEWS

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BY JASON KAY the building to say they had spotted smoke issuing from the building. The crews from Newport were on the scene very quickly and found a fire on the ground floor. The crews had to break in to start to tackle the fire. They located the fire in a ground floor room and did very well to contain the fire to the one part of the building.

“When they first arrived there was a large volume of heavy thick black smoke, so more crews were requested to support the crews from Newport and to stop the rapid spread of the fire because of the size of the building.

“The command and control unit were called in along with the support unit because of the amount of Firefighters who attended. There were three pumps from Newport, one from Cowes and a further appliance from East Cowes. Twelve fire fighters in breathing apparatus using six hose reel jets put the fire out.

“One of the problems my men faced was that the fire was within an electrical fuse board before the main fuses, so we had to wait for the electric board to turn up and shut off the power so we could carry on putting out the fire.”

* * *

OLD Newport Grammar School, originally King James Grammar School, now a youth centre, is one of the oldest and most historic buildings in Newport.

King James Grammar School opened in 1614 according to Sir John Oglander who founded it along with Sir Thomas Fleming, Sir Richard Worsley and other gentlemen of the Island.

During his enforced stay, and later imprisonment on the Island, before his execution in 1649, King Charles I is recorded as having spent some of his time in the building.

“It is stated in history that William Hopkins was master in 1648 when King Charles lived in the school,” according to ‘Newport in Bygone Days’

by R.J. Eldridge in which there is a chapter on the St James Grammar School. Other records state that King Charles stayed at the property for 60 days in 1648.

The building closed as a school in the 1950s and since then it has been used as a youth club and centre.

NEWCLOSE County Cricket Ground, on the outskirts of Newport, has won the right to stage functions in its pavilion all year round.

The IW Council planning committee’s decision earlier this week safeguards the future of the impressive development, which was opened in September last year, and has since attracted many top cricketing names to the Island.

When the original planning consent was agreed three years ago, a condition was that the pavilion could not be used for any purpose other than in direct connection with the use of the site as a gold standard cricket ground.

That meant the pavilion was under threat of standing idle for around seven months of the year, outside the cricket season, with valuable income from private and corporate functions being lost, even though membership had risen to more than 900 in a year.

Newclose submitted planning applications to alter the pavilion, and to have the original restriction removed, and the planning committee’s decision means the bar and lounge at Newclose can now open to the public other than on match days.

It will not only provide much-needed revenue, but should also create a number of new jobs at the complex.

Mike Scott, general manager of Newclose, said: “I would like to thank everyone who has supported Newclose through the planning process, particularly the planning officers and planning committee members, who so diligently and professionally dealt with the applications.

“Clearly we are delighted that the matter has been resolved favourably. This will now allow Newclose to become a sustainable business throughout the year.

“The income streams we can generate will enable us to promote cricket on the Isle of Wight, both in terms of bringing County teams to the Island like Hampshire and Derbyshire, but also to invest in youth development for the long term future of cricket on the Island”.

JAILED FOR ASSAULT

AN ISLAND man has been sentenced to two years in jail after he assaulted a man outside the Windmill Inn in Bembridge.

Richard Simon Albert Bates, 23, formerly of Puckpool Hill, Ryde, was jailed for assaulting a 56-year-old man who was knocked unconscious outside the Windmill Inn in Bembridge in May. Mr Bates was sentenced to two years in prison and told to pay £1,000 compensation to the victim after pleading guilty to causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) without intent.

The victim, Michael Jacobs also from the Island, said: “I’m very grateful for all the assistance I’ve had from doctors, nurses and especially the helicopter crew who flew me to Southampton General Hospital to be treated for serious head injuries after the assault.”

Police thanked members of the Isle of Wight community for helping to bring the offender to justice.

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NEWS

Hospice News Hospice Fundraising: Telephone - 528989 Last 2 Lights of Love Services for 2009

Ventnor Wintergardens at 3pm. The concert, one of a series of classical concerts to AFTER another very successful be held to raise funds for the Christmas season of Lights of Hospice is free to attend and a Love Services the last two closing collection will be taken services are at The Cut in Cowes at the end. (by Joules) on Friday December The following concert will 18 at 7pm and at The Crab be on Sunday the January 24 Inn in Shanklin on Monday 2010 and will feature Stephen December 21 at 6.30pm. Please Bingham on violins. take this opportunity to go along and enjoy the final two Fundraising and services of the year.

Hospice Shop opening

Boxing Day swim to help the Hospice STAFF and friends of Appley Manor Hotel in Ryde are taking part in a bracing sponsored swim at Seaview on Boxing Day morning to raise money for the Island’s Hospice. So far about 20 people have signed up to take part but the number actually participating on the day is expected to be even higher.

Spectators are welcome to go along and cheer on the brave swimmers. More details and the exact time of the swim can be obtained by calling Sarah Swift or Vikki Page at the Appley Manor Hotel on 564777.

Pumphouse Gang to play in memory of Sue THE PUMPHOUSE GANG with The Mechanixs will be appearing live at Ryde Castle on Saturday January 23 2010 from 7.30pm. The concert is in remembrance of Sue Oxford and will raise money for the Island’s Hospice.

This is a ticket only event and tickets are priced at £10. They are available from Strings in Monkton St Ryde, The Simeon Arms in Ryde and the Earl Mountbatten Hospice Charity Shops in Newport.

hours over Christmas and New Year

THE FUNDRAISING office at the Hospice will operate the following opening hours over the holiday season.

A PRETTY GOOD GIG TURNER PAYS BACK £681

LEGENDARY rockers The Pretty Things will be appearing at the Ventnor Winter Gardens next month.

The Pretty Things (below) are playing the January 16 gig for free, in order to raise funds for St Catherine’s School’s charity. Joining them for the night’s entertainment are The Malchicks, Amen Boogie Blues Band and DJ Kaf-Tan. Featuring the hoarse vocals of Phil May, delivered with more energy and power than Mick Jagger alongside the stinging leads of “rock-royalty” guitarist Dick Taylor (who actually played in early versions of the Rolling Stones with Jagger and Keith Richards), the Pretties recorded a clutch of raunchy R&B rockers

in the mid-’60s.

Now they are at the Winter Gardens with two young ‘Pretties’ in the line up – George Perez on Bass and Jack Greenwood on Drums, along with founders Phil May and Dick Taylor, plus Frank Holland also on guitar, who has been with them for over 20 years.

Quite a mix for all tastes and ages to shake off the post-Christmas blues and a rare opportunity to see the real line up of The Pretty Things here in Ventnor. After this, they are off on tour of Japan and then the USA. Tickets are £15 in advance and £17 on the door and are available from The Music Shop at 6 Pier St, Ventnor, by phone on 856200 or 856206.

Christmas Eve: Close at Lunchtime.

Christmas Day, Boxing Day, Sunday December 27, Monday December 28: Closed.

Tuesday December 29, Wednesday December 30, Thursday December 31: Open 8.30am - 4.30pm.

Friday January 1, Saturday January 2, Sunday January 3: Closed.

Monday January 4: Open During the holiday season donations can be made any day at the reception desk in the Hospice. Opening hours for the Hospice Shops will be as follows: Thursday Christmas Eve: 9.30am - 2.30pm, all shops.

Monday December 28 (Newport Furniture Shop Only): 11am - 3pm.

Tuesday December 29: 11am - 3pm, all shops.

Wednesday December 30: 11am - 3pm, all shops.

Thursday December 31: 9.30 - 4.30pm, all shops.

Classical concerts at Ventnor Wintergarden New Years Day: Closed.

On Sunday Dec 20 a classical pianist will be appearing at

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

Saturday January 2: 9.30am - 4.30pm.

gazette the isle of wight

REPORTING ISLAND NEWS

HOW TO CONTACT THE IW GAZETTE

ISLAND MP Andrew Turner is to repay nearly £700 for an expenses claim made on his behalf when he was recovering from serious illness.

Mr Turner was asked to repay MP Andrew Turner £681.60 following the review into the Additional Accommodation Allowance or ACA for every MP. Sir Thomas Legg who undertook the review will say in his report to the Members Estimate Committee: “Mr Turner was paid £681.60 in 2006/07 for mortgage insurance, which is not an allowable expense. The claim was made on his behalf while he was away ill.”

Mr Turner responded: “As Sir Thomas points out this claim was made on my behalf whilst I was recovering from a stroke. The expenditure had been incurred in the preceding year and like every other claim I have made was supported by documentary evidence.

“I am disappointed that such an error was made as the claim was prepared in close co-operation with the Parliamentary Fees Office. However, this is my responsibility and I have repaid the sum in full to the House of Commons.”

CRACKDOWN ON SHOPLIFTERS

POLICE are warning thieves there is a zero tolerance attitude towards shoplifting on the Island this Christmas.

Officers on extra patrols in Newport, Sandown, Shanklin, Cowes and Ryde are working closely with shop staff, security guards and CCTV operators to target known offenders and respond swiftly to reports of suspicious behaviour.

Newport Safer Neigh- bourhoods Sergeant, Paul Jennings, said: “Police will show no leniency towards thieves caught stealing goods from law-abiding shoppers and store shelves. Those arrested face searches of their homes. Some shoplifters have been known to store stolen items at home so they can sell them second hand.

“Reducing thefts from shops is one of Newport’s community priorities for policing. Some retail outlets have lost thousands of pounds through thefts in the past.

This can lead to higher prices for

customers because of the costs of extra security measures.”

Sgt Jennings continued: “Last year’s patrols received good support from shop managers and shoppers who told us it was reassuring to see officers out and about.

“The vast majority of us want to enjoy a trouble free Christmas when shopping so my message to thieves is that police are looking for you and we’ll catch you if you try to help yourself to free gifts.”

Codenamed Operation Humbug in 2008, a combination of plain clothes and high visibility patrols in and outside shops in Newport resulted in five people being charged with theft. Two teenage girls received reprimands, and one 18-year-old man was given a caution. Stolen items, including CDs, DVDs, cosmetics, and clothing were recovered. The amount of shop thefts reported in Newport has fallen over the past two years.

PCSO Chantal Miller and PCSO Lotte O’Sullivan

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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IT’S CELEBRATION TIME

Cllr Sara Sheaf, Shirley Ballard, Cllr David Pugh, Mayor Lynda Fleming, Paul Hewson with Elizabeth Martin and Simon Lock from Shanklin Primary in front

Town crier Shirley Ballard SHANKLIN celebrated the launch of its Town Square Projects, which coincided with mayor Lynda Fleming’s 60th birthday.

Although the Square is still a work in progress it was decided to go ahead with the opening to coincide with the 150th

anniversary of Lord Palmerston becoming Prime Minister and the building of Palmerston’s Follies.

Shanklin has a road named after Palmerston and he was an Island MP for the pocket Borough of Newport.

It was also the launch

of a new Seaside Town Project supported by UkOnline.

Shanklin Town Crier Shirley Ballard, Town Mayor Lynda Fleming, and Leader of IW Council David Pugh officially opened the Square and presented certificates to the headboy/girl

from Shanklin Church of England Primary School, Simon Lock and Elizabeth Martin.

Town Mayor Lynda Fleming said: “We have worked with the IW Council to improve road safety in this area, improve accessibility for disabled people, and

retain parking in this part of the Town.”

Town Councillor and Leader of IW Council David Pugh added: “Although there a few finishing touches to be added, the Square will help join Regent Street up with the High Street and Old Village – as well

as be a reminder as to how Shanklin used to be.”

The Seaside Town Project will develop IT and social history networks in the town, research and produce a social history project on Shanklin, and promote intergenerational

learning.

Lynda concluded: “I would like to thank our partners, for their support of the Town Square and the historical significance that it has in the Town, and its representation of the cultural heritage of the Town.”

WIGHTLINK FACING DELAYS

WIGHTLINK car ferry services between Fishbourne and Portsmouth have been severely disrupted this week.

And quite inadvertently Wightlink’s main cross-Solent rivals Red Funnel helped cause the problems.

Sailings were limited after car ferry St. Faith went in for its refit late due to the bad weather. Ironically, the fitters in Portsmouth were held up after they worked on a Red Funnel ferry, but were then unable to get it out of the dry dock on time because

high winds prevented the use of lifting equipment.

The FishbournePortsmouth route will continue to be disrupted today (Fri) and tomorrow, but Sunday sailing will take place as normal and St Faith will be back in operation on Monday.

Meanwhile, Wightlink will know the fate of their Yarmouth-Lymington service in the New Year after judgement was reserved at the High Court hearing earlier this week.

The Lymington River Association (LRA), brought the action against Wightlink claiming the bigger ferries were threatening protected mudflats and salt marshes used extensively in bird and marine life.

The judge will now take time to consider all the submissions made before delivering his judgement.

A Wightlink spokesperson said: “We look forward to the judgement and remains confident that its decision to introduce the new Lymington

to Yarmouth ferries was lawful.

“The company continues to behave lawfully, helpfully and reasonably both in the ferries’ safe handling and in its proposal to Natural England for legally binding mitigation currently out for stakeholder engagement.

“Since 1830 there has been a ferry port in Lymington – an important part of the town’s commercial life, and a link between the UK mainland and west Wight. Since the introduction of Wightlink’s

new ‘W’ Class fleet on the Lymington–Yarmouth route in early 2009, Wightlink has entered discussions with Natural England and proposed a mitigation St. Faith

scheme to help keep at bay the natural erosion that is swiftly reducing the size of the Lymington saltmarshes and the species that depend on them.

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

SMILES OF FUN FOR ALL

NEWS

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BOAT GOES MISSING POLICE are appealing for information after it was alleged that a 17-foot Shetland Cabin boat and its trailor were stolen from Wootton Bridge, near Ryde.

Investigating officer, PC Russ Skinner of the Isle of Wight’s Targeted Patrol Teams (TPT) said: “Initial enquiries have established that the last confirmed sighting of the boat and trailer was on the driveway of an address Dillon Early with Skookum. Below: Sharon off Park Road in Wootton Bridge during the Bradley with Zora and Magik evening of Friday, November 27.

“The boat appears damaged in the photograph, but had been repaired recently and re-painted white and blue.

“A description of the boat has been circulated to the marine community already, but I would also appeal for members of the public to contact police if they see this boat or know anything about its whereabouts.”

Anyone with information is asked to phone Ryde Police Station on 101 or 0845 045 4545.

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

Emma Orlik, and Fleur Orlik with Santa CHRISTMAS capers came to St James’s Square in Newport last Saturday with loads to see and do throughout the day, writes Jo Macaulay.

Kicking off with the VOXPOP choir at 10.30am who sang a medley of Christmas songs and carols, there was soon an expectant crowd gathering in as Santa was rumoured to be arriving.

And the children were not disappointed as Santa certainly

did arrive, taking up residence in the festive marquee. Children could come and meet him, have their photos taken and tell him all about their Christmas wishes.

But it was the huskies who stole the show. Sharon and Martin Bradley’s award winning ‘Snostopin’ show and racing huskies were scheduled to be in the Square for about an hour but were so popular with children and adults alike that they stayed for almost four hours.

Rebekah Lees, Lily-Mae Millichamp, Gabriella Strickland with Santa

“For working dogs they have such good natures,” said Sharon.

“All of the dogs are family pets as well, they have telly time and sofa time.”

Nephew Dillon Earley helps to race and show the dogs – particularly Skookum, which means ‘really great’ in native Canadian. Tehya, which means ‘precious’, was also with the Bradleys along with Zora and Magik who are truly Christmas huskies – their third birthdays

will be on Christmas Day. Puppy Tala came out for about half an hour but was really too excited to be with all the people.

Tomorrow (Saturday) the The missing boat huskies will be opening the Cowes Town Parade and available to meet and greet at The Cut at 7.30pm.

Newport Carnival Committee also ran a tombola and a raffle in the Square and many children took up the offer to make a POLICE have charged a man following a Christmas cracker. burglary at an Island business.

Matthew Christopher Doyle, aged 30, of Freshwater, was bailed to appear before the IW Magistrates Court on Friday, December 18 after a burglary at Island Gems in Brighstone on December 2.

The charge follows an investigation by officers from the Isle of Wight’s CID, Dog Support Unit, Targeted Patrol and Scenes of Crime teams.

Joanne Woods, Rebecca Jackson and Karen Gerring

CHARGE ON BURGLARY

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

CADETS BOOST FROM ROTARY

AT A RECENT cheque presentation, Mrs Anna Morgan-Crockett, president of Cowes Rotary Club presented Mrs Margaret Plumley, chairman of Cowes Sea Cadets with a cheque for £1,000.

Also at the presentation were past president of Cowes Rotary Club, Mr. Peter MorganCrockett, and Officer in Charge at Cowes Sea Cadets, Sam Sturdy.

The money was raised at the annual ‘Sail Over’ lunch at the Royal Yacht Squadron in September. A highlight of the

Rotary calendar, the ‘sailover’ is when members of other rotary clubs around Great Britain sail to Cowes to attend an annual fundraising lunch.

The windfall will be used towards the purchase of band instruments and equipment for the sea cadets.

“We’re absolutely delighted with the support we’ve had from them,” said Mrs Margaret Plumley. “We have previously been the beneficiaries of funds from Rotary in Cowes and we really appreciate their generosity.”

Anna Morgan-Crockett, Peter Morgan-Crockett and Margaret Plumley

SANTA NAV OR A MAP?

PREPARATIONS for Santa’s busiest night of the year are being hampered by a dispute with his usually faithful reindeer, Rudolph, writes Peter White.

After spending most of the year working out and getting in shape, ready for his marathon festive journey, the red-nosed reindeer now finds himself out in the cold.

His North Pole-based employers – Santa Claus and the Elves Ltd – have invested heavily in new equipment and technology for the sleigh, that has been eagerly prepared for the big night

that is fast approaching.

The equipment is expected to be used for the first time this year as Santa swoops across the Isle of Wight. Of course it is not too difficult finding the bigger towns, like Newport, Yarmouth, Ryde and Sandown.

But in an exclusive Gazette interview Santa did mention that he sometimes had a bit of trouble seeking out some of the small villages and hamlets scattered across the Island.

Of course, he always managed to find them in the end. But with such a busy schedule on

Christmas Eve, before he finally returns home to put his feet up, he wants all the help he can get.

Among the new additions, is a new satellite navigation system – giving accurate directions for the quickest possible routes around the Island.

“There are so many children to deliver to in just one night – trying to make sure that everyone gets a present is very stressful. Even more so if we were to get lost,” says Santa. “This satellite navigation system relies on Ordnance Survey mapping data – so it’s based on the most

detailed information available. Our trials in the run up to Christmas have been very promising.”

Rudolph disagrees: “For many years now, I have used a combination of nose-power and paper maps to plan our routes. I’m hurt, frankly, that Santa sees fit to replace such a tried and tested method with this new-fangled technology.”

This argument is echoed across Britain. With so many ‘satnavs’ finding their way into stockings this Christmas, there is a fear that traditional map-reading skills will disappear.

“Our mapping data underpins most of the satnav systems available in Britain,” says Ordnance Survey’s Rob Andrews.

“But paper maps are equally important.

“We believe satnavs and paper maps can work in harmony – just like Santa and Rudolph should.

One complements the other. The systems are a fantastic way of finding your way across Britain, but if you’re using one in your car – or sleigh – you should always have a paper map in the glove box too. Just in case. You never know when you might need it.”

SWEET MUSIC FOR CHARITY A CHARITY gig rocked Freshwater fundraisers, raising £425 for the British Red Cross.

A trio of local bands performed an electrifying set at the Island’s second Red Rock event.

Island talent The Bluebyrds, Riptide and Easy Street attracted more than 100 party-goers to the Sandpipers Hotel in Freshwater Bay, to raise money for the Red Cross– contributing to the £1m UK-wide target for their December fundraising campaign ‘One Million Pound Fortnight’.

Claire Ross, Red Cross Freshwater charity shop manager, said: “There was a great atmosphere and

For more in the Red everyone who came had a many shoppers and raised totally wonderful time. The an additional £138 for the Cross’s local work, see redcross.org.uk/isleofwight room was filled with people Red Cross. of all ages and the music was sensational.

“We’d like to thank all the bands for taking part, but especially The Bluebyrds for their generous donation to the Red Cross. All the money raised will be spent on Red Cross projects at home here on the Island, and overseas.”

The Freshwater Red Cross charity shop also hosted a Festive Fun Day last month, to boost its contribution to the £1m target. A grand raffle, festive cards, guess my The Bluebyrds perform at the British Red Cross name competition, create Red Rock. The band members are Keir Hicks, Chris your festive wish list, gifts, Williams, Devon Badman and Max Harrison. and refreshments attracted

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YOUTH COUNCIL RECORD

A NEW set of budding young politicians have been unveiled as part of the 2009/10 IW Youth Council.

There were more than 2,000 votes for the Island’s Youth Council - which is a record - while there were also a record number of candidates in the UK Youth Parliament election.

Seven seats make up the North Wight ward of the Island with Scott Goodhew, Ben Yates, Caitlin Day, Lawrie Mason, Thomas Turtle, Logan Wareham and Samuel Hughes all being

BY JAMIE WHITE elected.

In the South Wight, the seven places were taken by Tyne Samuel, Lou Alabaster, Jordan Cotton, Adi Volney, Tessa Kewell, Ben Furniss and Jacob Smith.

Six seats have been filled in the East Wight by Jacob Rich, Robert Jackson, Idrish Hamroush, Oliver Hughes, Kirsty Innard and Jasmin Callan.

Finally in the West Wight, Atalanta Hersey, Rachael Troward and Lauren Noble were successful.

After a close battle, the member of the UK Youth Parliament was chosen to be Jack Bell, while deputy member went to Daniel Clarke.

Jack, 16, who attends Sandown High School, was delighted to be elected. “I am really pleased to be elected as a member of the UK Youth Parliament, My main aim is to try and lower the cost of ferry travel to and from the

YOUNGSTERS ON A HIGH

A NEW scheme created by the Island’s High Sheriff Gay Edwards that celebrates successes of young people, has received support from the IW Council.

The High Sheriff chairs the Island’s Youth Inclusion Forum, which is a multi agency group that includes Hampshire Constabulary, IW Fire and Rescue, the NHS, IW Council’s Children and Young People Services and Community Safety Service and the voluntary sector.

Through the forum, the High Sheriff has created a certificate that can be awarded to any young person who has overcome significant difficulties in his or her life or has participated in an activity that has had a positive impact on him or herself, or on others.

The certificate has been created to promote what young people can and do

achieve, celebrating their success with their schools, families and with other young people.

High Sheriff, Gay Edwards, said: “In my time as Chair of the Youth Inclusion Forum I have been very impressed by what young people can achieve with the support from agencies around the table working together.

“This certificate is all about celebrating what young people do achieve, be that for themselves, for others, for something big or small, overcoming a difficulty or rising to a challenge” IW Council cabinet member Dawn Cousins, who is responsible for children, said: “I welcome this scheme from the High Sheriff.

“It is very important the achievements of children who overcome difficulties are recognised and the council is very keen to support this new

scheme through its role on the Youth Inclusion Forum.”

The nomination form is available at the Hampton Trust website and can be found at www.hamptontrust. org.uk then going to ‘what we do’ then selecting ‘Administration Services’ at the bottom of the page.

The closing date for nomination forms is February 19, 2010. Only entries completed on the nomination form will be included.

The forum members will then select ten nomination forms and these young people and their guests will be invited to the annual Isle of Wight Council Wight 2B Heard conference for young people on March 5, 2010 to receive their certificates from the High Sheriff.

For more information call 02380 213520 or email tara. doel@hamptontrust.org.uk.

Island,” said Jack.

Daniel, who is also 16 and attends Sandown High School, added: “I’m really happy to be a part of the UK Youth Parliament. My main aim is to scrap university tuition fees and to try and introduce a minimum wage

for people under the age of 18.”

IW Council Leader, David Pugh, said: “The Youth Council plays an important role on the Island, and this year’s results go to show that young people on the Island clearly care about local

politics.

“The IW Council works very closely with the Youth Council on a range of schemes and topics and I look forward to hearing the views and ideas the Youth Council will have over the next year.”

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

SNOW JOKE YACHT CLUB LUNCH SAILS IN WITH £500

THE ISLAND saw its first snow of the winter yesterday as showers swept across many areas. And more is expected over the weekend.

Parts of the Island encountered the biggest snowfall in several years back in February with numerous side roads blocked by drifts. Now we are bracing ourselves for another cold spell, and the odds of a White Christmas are plummeting almost as fast as the temperatures.

THIS WEEKS CRYPTIC CROSSWORD

SEAVIEW Yacht Club hosted their annual Christmas lunch, which raised over £500 for the IW Hospice.

The lunch was attended by local resident the Lord Lieutenant Major General Martin White and his wife Fiona and Guy Ackland, along with many other Seaview residents.

Diners were treated to baked gammon ham with all the trimmings and a chocolate and hazelnut roulade.

Karen Eeles, Head Fundraiser for the Hospice, gave a short speech about how much everyone’s donations to the Hospice are appreciated.

Santa gave out presents to everyone and there were cuddly toys on sale to raise more money for the hospice.

Karen Eeles, Santa Seaview and Diana Foxley

MATT’S BRIGHT IDEA

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Touched for a drink (6) 4. Four in new search for data (8) 9. Dagger mark ruins blouse (6) 10. Classmate? Precisely (8) 12. Indicate that the score is not quite accurate (5,3) 13. I’m given a role to communicate (6) 15. Sally is right to help (4) 16. He contributes to the liquid assets of a bank (5,5) 19. Musical livewires (10) 20. A return of service which is some way off (4) 23. Is able somehow to get safely down to rock-bottom (6) 25. How initially ownership may be established (8) 27. Part of a computer network for a new tramline (8) 28. Dark red strand (6) 29. Antigone’s form of denial (8) 30. Tenant in the French diocese (6)

1. One who swears or turns into a drunkard (7) 2. I conspire to perfection (9) 3. Do they want fair play? (6) 5. Castle in the air? (4) 6. House completed but not bought (4-4) 7. House made badly; in state (5) 8.

Dishonourable person retiring to rest perhaps (7) 11. Property of the upper class?

(7) 14. Not a good case for a charity appeal? (4,3) 17. Being villainous, use no fair play (9) 18. A boxer is a dog one has to register (8) 19. Charles gets number correct (7) 21. Love of two churches (7) 22. Go looking for a scrap when surrounded by the enemy (6) 24. Sucker’s starting price swindle (5) 26. Card game for well off circle (4)

Steven Jones at Grange Avenue after helping brother Matthew light up the house and garden IT IS a labour of love to get the amazing array of lights on to 2a Grange Avenue in Ryde – more so because it is 17-year-old Matthew Jones who puts the show together. And all the money raised by donations goes to the hospice.

This will be the fourth year that Matthew has choreographed the light show and this year he’s been helped by his

younger brother Steven, 13. Matthew is a trainee electrical installation engineer at the IW College.

Just past Ryde High School, the Jones’ have a pull in area and there is also parking in the street.

The lights will now be on show from 5pm until 10pm every evening until January 2.

Matthew’s dad Michael used to help with the lights

in the past – the Jones’ began building the light show eight years ago. The family goes to the sales in January to pick up cheaper new additions to the ever-growing collection.

Michael and mum Marjorie are, not surprisingly, very proud of their son.

“Matthew was shown around the hospice after he donated the first amount of

money and he then decided he’d like to donate to the hospice every year because they do such a great job,” said Michael.

This year the collection is around £150 down on the £350 raised last year so please make an effort to get over to Grange Avenue to see the festive show and to pop a few pennies in the collecting tins. “Every little helps,” said Michael.

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NEW COMMITTEE HELPS TO WHIP UP THE CASH

WHIPPINGHAM Community Association’s Christmas Fair was the first venture for their newly formed social committee and it raised £234.

Formed back in the summer, the social committee decided that in all the events they organise they will share the proceeds with a chosen charity. Each of the five members was given two choices, they were put into a hat and Help For Heroes was chosen as the beneficiary for this fair.

Jan Smith is the chair of the Social Committee. “Stalls included a swap shop, a fantastic

tombola arranged by Jan Varney who had two helpers, Sylvia and George Marlow who got all the prizes,” said Jan. “They also gave 100% of the money they took, which was fantastic.

“We had a name the bear competition and a table with donated gifts. Marks and Spencer’s gave mugs and moneyboxes and there were cosmetics. We also had a table with Christmas decorations and cards.

“M&S donated mince pies and my ladies baked cakes and donated all of the milk, tea,

Kay Mottren, Alison Morey and Chrissie Saunders

coffee and squash that was sold as refreshments. They really deserve a round of applause,” said June.

Richard Hayes (84) and his friend Martin Jackson had a stall selling hand made cards and cakes. Mr. Hayes makes all of the cards by hand, buying A4 sheets of coloured card, folding them to make the cards and painstakingly sticking pieces on to them. The spectacular 3D results have to be sent in a box to prevent damage.

A decorated ex serviceman who served with the Royal Marines, Mr. Hayes also learnt flower

arranging from his sister after leaving the services. He has since arranged flowers in Winchester Cathedral and once completed an arrangement 14 feet high for Romsey Abbey.

“We had great support – those who came spent really freely,” said Jan Smith. “It’s a new thing for us and we’ll be putting on many more.”

Audrey Thorne who is chair of Whippingham Social Club was equally enthusiastic: “The social committee have really worked hard and we had a very successful day,” she added.

Janet Varney, Sylvia and George Marlow

NEWS

Richard Hayes (back) with Zoe Kennobin, Seb and Spencer Darlston-Jones

Betty Styles and Dorothy Day

COFFEE PERKS UP SCOUTS’ FUNDS

THE CHRISTMAS coffee morning for 1st Wootton Scouts raised a total of £155 towards group’s funds.

First Wootton Scout Group has around 50 youngsters aged from age six to 14 with beavers, cubs and scouts. On Saturday the cubs and scouts had gone bag packing for Sainsbury’s and the beaver group hosted the morning’s activities.

“We had a good response with about 100 people through the door,” said group leader Graham Walmsley. “There was a raffle, a tombola, Christmas gifts, a lucky dip, toys, books and refreshments.”

The money taken will be going towards renewing the kitchen in the headquarters of the 1st Wootton Scouts, which is in the recreation ground behind the primary school in Church Road.

Scout leader Graham Walmsley with members of his troop

Phyllis and Rodney Walmsley

Douglas Walmsley and Tina Emery

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

DISCO FUN AT DOWNSIDE

A CHRISTMAS disco at Downside Middle School was attended by over half the number of pupils at the school and was hailed as a great success by youth worker Rachel Prewer.

Organised by the Youth Club in conjunction with Downside’s parent teacher association, which is called PAD (People at Downside), 11 of the youth workers attended and nine of the PAD team. Pan Neighbourhood Partnership (PNP) also supported the event by paying for the cost of the disco.

“We did Christmas party food and non alcoholic mulled wine, which was popular, along with adult refreshments,” said Rachel.

“Santa came at 8.15pm and had a little grotto where he set up and handed out party bags before everyone left at 8.30pm.

“It was good fun. The youth centre has been running for three years now and this is the first time they’ve had a party of this size at Christmas. The partnership agencies have enabled us to do a bigger event this year.

“A big thanks to the team for all their hard work, especially the hovering up at the end,” added Rachel. “They had the entire place cleared within half an hour.”

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

YOUR SATURDAY PASSPORT PHOTO

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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FLASHBACK TO THE 80s REVELLERS will be able to relive the 1980s as they ring in the New Year at Cowes Yacht Haven.

Electric 80s is the theme at the events centre on New Year’s Eve for the Isle of Wight’s biggest party to welcome the new decade.

Fancy dress and 80s’ dress will be the order of the day, with more than 1,000 1980s clubbers expected to enjoy full 80s’ decor, lights, dance podiums and fireworks as 2010 dawns.

The night begins at 9pm and goes through until 2am, with tickets priced at £15 in advance. A special Electric 80s bus service will be available to and from Ryde, priced at £8 in advance.

Tickets are on sale from Cowes Yacht Haven, Aquatogs in High St, Cowes, Visual Impact in Newport, Generation Fashion in Newport and Masqueryde in Ryde.

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

LAST WEEKEND’S TEMPTATIONS

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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FEATURE

KIERON IS TOP CHEF DIPPY ABOUT SANTA Kieron Thompson, a year 10 student from Ryde High School, won joint first place in the Isle of Wight Rotary Club Young Chef of the Year competition held at the IOW College.

Kieron and fellow competitor Christie Rose have both won places in the next round of the Rotary district heats, which take place in Portsmouth in the New Year. He will also have a cookery master-class with Jose Grazios – acclaimed chef at the George Hotel in Yarmouth.

The winning three-course menu focused upon using the finest local Isle of Wight produce.

This included a leek and potato soup with homemade bread rolls, meatballs with an Isle of Wight tomato sauce and for dessert, a perry jelly with blackberries and local ice cream.

DIPPY the Penguin was at Planet Ice last week to advertise the Skating with Santa session that will happen on December 24.

SK8 with Santa will run from 11am till 2pm during the daily skate session and will include Christmas and party songs, snowman building and games with prizes to be won.

On Christmas Day there is free skating between 10am and 12noon although you should book as there is limited availability.

Dippy with Father Christmas

Kieron Thompson

Dippy with Seaview wildlife staff and Ice Rink Area Manager Lorna Cotton

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

FINNISH IS JUST THE START!

A little corner of Seaclose Park was transformed into a Finnish Winter Wonderland this week by phone giant Nokia complete with real snow and reindeer.

After a massive response to the Island’s media campaign to get Nokia to bring their winter attraction over here, Islanders inundated Nokia with votes. Many were then picked to enjoy the experience for themselves.

As you approached the area the snow covered Christmas trees on either side of the path gave a taste of what was to come. Four large tipis loomed above the trees and Christmas music could be heard above the sound of children’s laughter.

But it was not advisable to take the route down into the first tipi as it was full of real snow and it was hardening fast. Youngsters were busy having snowball fights and sliding around on the slippery surface – not for the fainthearted.

Beyond the snow tipi was a courtyard area and a little paddock where two reindeer grazed – a mother and her baby. Everyone marveled at how small they appeared but the males are apparently larger.

BY JO MACAULAY Little people could pet the reindeer who were very amenable to human contact.

These reindeer hailed not from Lapland but from Ashford in Kent where the farm have a herd of around 90 animals.

Many children were having their photos taken on the red Santa’s sleigh nearby or amongst more snow-covered trees.

Looking over into a larger three-pointed tipi, mums and dads were huddled around an open table top fire in the middle warming their hands and toes – it was a very cold day. Benches were covered in reindeer skins and traditional Finnish Christmas decorations such as straw wreaths and bark stars hung from the tipi poles.

In this larger tipi were loads of different children’s activities such as making gingerbread decorations, glittery star wands, door garlands and cut paper stars.

Refreshments were on offer such as non-alcoholic mulled pear and apple or spiced berry hot glogg and pretty little star

Snowdrop with Island MP Andrew Turner

shaped plum tarts – a Finnish Christmas tradition.

Summerfields Primary School were hurtling around the Wonderland when the Gazette arrived. Head Teacher Kay Wood told us that Miss Moore, one of her teaching assistants, had arranged for the school to pop in as they were not far away.

“To keep our children this quiet is amazing,” said Miss Moore. “I have to say that Mark (the Nokia rep) has been really accommodating.

The food’s been a big hit but I don’t know if they’ll have time to do all the activities.”

Tara Colebrook, Mat Grace and their daughter Faith Grace came with Mat’s dad who had won tickets. “It’s very good, excellent, but very cold. It’s good to see it,” said Mat. Jean Somerville from Yarmouth had brought her great grandchildren. “I think it’s absolutely wonderful and a good thing for the Island as well,” she said.

Island MP Andrew Turner was very impressed with the installation and posed with the reindeers for photographs.

In the evening there was live music, alcoholic glogg and warm cider for an adult guest list.

Tara Colebrook with Matt and Faith Grace

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

IT’S TIME TO Rev Drucilla Dennis, Rev Gregory Cliffton Smith, Moreen Hicks, George Hibberd and Rev Michael Johnson

Around 400 people attended the annual Lights of Love service at The Minster, St Thomas’s Church, in Newport last Friday.

The IW Hospice organise the service, which is held to remember those who have been lost.

On entry to the church people were given a cardboard silver candle upon which to write their personal messages. They could also send in dedications to be written in the Hospice book of remembrance, or could add them in at the end of the service.

The Hospice reverend, Drucilla Dennis, gave the service along with the Hospice chaplaincy team. Reverend Gregory CliftonSmith, Father Gerard Flynn and even the retired Reverend Michael Johnston preached during the service.

During the service the lights were lowered and Graham Elderfield, Chief Executive of the Hospice, lit a very large candle whilst Richard Hall played Brahms’s Intermezzo in E. At this point the silver candles could then be hung upon the hospice tree, which was later taken back to the hospice chapel.

Graham Elderfield read a lesson from

St John’s Gospel, Dr Ian Cairns, Brigid Plummer and Pauline Burford also gave readings as representatives of different areas of the hospice.

At the end of the service the congregation were surprised by the entry of bagpiper Dr Keiran Cooney playing Amazing Grace.

“It was a fitting end to the service which was a very moving tribute to the Hospice,” said Dr Cooney, who wore his Gordon Highlanders uniform.

We kept it under wraps,” Karen Eeeles, Head of Fundraising at the Hospice.”

“It was a surprise and it was lovely,” said Rev Drucilla Dennis.

Dr Cooney, who is a GP at St Helen’s Medical Centre and who is honorary piper of the IW Caledonian Society, will be playing with the Wight Hot Pipes in St Thomas’s Square tomorrow at 10am.

There are now 19 Lights of Love services across the Island at this time of year, each one different. Lights of Love are for everyone who wishes to remember those they have lost although the IW Hospice originally arranged them.

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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FEATURE

REMEMBER

Reverend Michael Johnson

Graham Elderfield

Dr. Kieron Cooney

High Sherriff Gay Edwards and Husband

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XMAS FEATURE

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

BRIGHSTONE TREE CHEERS

Emily and Elle Davidson Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival was bigger and better than ever this year with over 100 decorated trees in the four separate venues. South Today’s Sally Taylor opened the festival, which ran until Sunday.

St Mary’s Church had almost 50 of the trees, with every decoration imaginable. Poignantly in the centre of the church West Wight Floral Arts had a white tree decorated with deep red fir cones and roses “In memory of those who have died in the cause of freedom for Afghanistan and Iraq.”

Another tree from the Street Pastors was decorated with flip-flops – the pastors apparently hand them out to people struggling to walk home in their heels.

The Rotary Club of West Wight had an eye

catching white and blue tree, which was flanked by 1st Brighstone Cub Scouts’ ‘oranges and lemons’ themed tree and 1st Brighstone Scouts’ ‘While Shepherds washed their socks’ tree. Humourously this tree was hung with glitter-covered socks and had a box of fairy washing liquid on the top.

In the Wilberforce Hall around 26 trees lined the walls whilst visitors took tea and home made cakes at the festive tables. On the stage a ‘breathing’ Santa Claus took a tap on the sofa whilst Rudolf took a nap by the fire.

Traditional decorations of dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks decorated The Village Shop’s tree, IW Zoo had orange baubles decorated with tiger faces and stripes and a Stitch in Time had strings of cotton reels amongst its branches.

Elle Davidson

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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XMAS FEATURE

Christmas greetings from councillors

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

SANTAS IN A DASH TO LIGHT

Newport’s Christmas Carnival was hailed a great success and the weather was cold but dry for the procession that started at Matalan and finished at Newport Quay.

First to leave were 20 Santas who were taking part in Age Concern’s Isle of Wight’s first Santa Dash Fun Run including two dogs dressed as Santas.

Joint first across the finish line were Adam Peckham and Matt Hallam completing the course, which was approximately a mile, in just over five minutes.

Jo Dare, Chief Officer of Age Concern said: “This is our first Santa Dash, and we hope it will become an annual event. We would like to thank everyone who took part, and the Police, Red Cross, Newport Carnival and the Isle of Wight Council for supporting the event.

“Every penny raised from the event will stay here on the Island, to help us to support more vulnerable older people”.

To register to receive details of next year’s run please contact Susan Graves on 525282 or susan.graves@aciw.org.uk.

Father Christmas leading the Vectis Marching Band

Following them, although not at quite the same sort of speed, were the famous Ventnor Comic Jazz Band, a rag taggle band of musicians who always raise a smile, followed by the IW Magic Circle.

Two fire engines from Newport Fire Station led the rest of the procession followed by the full Newport carnival queen float. Four other floats joined in along with Wight Strollers in their old lady costumes complete with zimmer frames.

Eight schools took part with lanterns they had made. Five were in a big cluster with differently designed angel lanterns and of the three other schools two were in costumes.

Three other bands were also in the parade: Vectis Corps of Drums, Medina Marching Band and Wight Diamonds Marching Band. Newport Rainbow junior guiding took part dressed as the nativity.

June Winchcombe, chair of Newport Carnival Committee said: “All in all it was a very good procession – one of the

most colourful. The only problem was the number of people on the streets, but everyone enjoyed it anyway,” she said citing the finals of the X Factor as the likely culprit.

“A really big thank you to everyone who came and took part,” added June.

The young sat Hesrt Freewheelers

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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FEATURE

THEIR WAY AROUND NEWPORT

Maggie,Alfie,Reggie and Lennie Downey

Donna and Reanna Froment

Sarah Bloomfield and Ellie Warren

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FEATURE

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

DAGGER DISCOVERY

A Bronze Age dagger, thought to be more than 3,000 years old, has been found on the Island.

The dagger was found by Island resident Dave Clark, who discovered it while using his metal detector in a field in the West Wight and has now been donated to the IW Council’s Museum of Island History. Mr Clark kindly donated the dagger to the museum, along with the permission of the landowner.

The piece will now be conserved before going on display at the museum, which

is based at Newport Guildhall on the High Street. It is hoped it will be available for public viewing by February.

IW Council Deputy Leader, George Brown, said: “I want to thank Mr Clark and the landowner for donating the dagger. Its historical importance, having lain buried for over 3000 years, cannot be overstated.

“It is very important we preserve the history of the Isle of Wight and there are many items on display at the Museum of Island History which show

how the Island has changed through the ages.

“It is very much appreciated when items are donated to the museum as this helps protect the finds as well as allowing the council to secure and preserve other finds, which may otherwise go off-Island.”

Anyone who makes archaeological finds can take them for identification and recording to Frank Basford, IW Council Finds Liaison Officer with the Portable Antiquities Scheme. He can be contacted on 823810.

Curator Corina Westwood

DROP IN FOR FINE FOOD

Many people may not realise that Phillips Seafoods and Smoke House are both wholesale and retails suppliers and that you can drop into their shop, next to Northwood Garage, and there is loads of free parking.

Purpose-built for the smoking side of this family-run business, Phillips smoke salmon, haddock, kippers, trout and more. Mr. Dove and his family took over in 1997, although the business is over 40 years old, and moved to their present site around five years ago.

With the largest range of seafood and fish on the Island, they also have local fish in season, live shellfish and can cook to order

both crab and lobster.

Over Christmas as an alternative to turkey and ham Phillips have poached and decorated salmon for parties, seafood platters. Or you might like salmon pieces in a raspberry and champagne sauce, crayfish tails marinated in sweet chilli sauce or marinated herrings in various sauces.

Have you an anchovy lover in the family? How about a gift of marinated anchovies in garlic or chilli flavoured oil or some banderrellos, which are olives with an anchovy wrapped around them.

Stuck for an idea for starters with your Christmas lunch? Try Phillips smoked salmon or their

own cured gravadlax. Or luscious frozen cooked crevettes, which can just be defrosted overnight and served with lemon, mayonnaise and brown bread.

Scallops are another tasty starter – choose from king scallops, frozen king or queen scallops or ‘queenies’, which are frozen on the half shell. Or you could have whitebait, blanch bait (in breadcrumbs) or scampi.

Phillips also make their own pates – smoked mackerel, smoked trout, smoked salmon or crab varieties.

After Christmas you might like to opt for a delicious tiger tail prawn curry. Phillips also stock frozen Californian squid and tilapia.

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

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FEATURE

SUPERSTORE HELPS SCOUTS

Phill Coward, Tanya Blake and Lizzie Clover with six Newport St. John Scout Troup

Over £300 worth of sport, camping and cooking equipment has been given to the Sixth Newport St Johns Scouts by staff at

Sainsbury’s, Newport.

Several groups including Beavers and Cubs, as well as Scouts (pictured above) will be able to take full advantage

of the new equipment for a wide range of activities.

Newport Sixth St Johns Cub Scout Leader, Phil Coward, said: “I would

like to thank everyone at Sainsbury’s for their kind donation.

“The new equipment will enable several groups to go

on camping trips and enjoy other activities and sports.

The kitchen and cooking equipment will also prove very helpful.”

The Yarmouth Scout Group also received equipment from Sainsbury’s for use at their West Wight headquarters.

SURPRISE BACK AT MY OLD SCHOOL

They do say “never go back to your old school” but I had a very pleasant surprise when I went back to Carisbrooke High School this week.

As I walked around the site with Headteacher, David Jeapes there was a purposeful calm surrounding Carisbrooke High School’s campus.

Students were smartly dressed and polite. With the help of his dedicated staff Mr. Jeapes has really brought Carisbrooke High School into the 21st century.

The library is now the Learning Resource Centre and one half of it was full of students working on computers. In fact the school boasts around 900 networked computers and 40 servers. This provides staff and students with the opportunity

BY JO MACAULAY to use new technologies to deliver cutting edge learning.

In the sports halls (we only had one) one room is dedicated to X Bikes and students are all busy pedaling to a virtual route. Around the room more students work on their PE coursework as part of the schools flexible curriculum.

But it’s in results that Carisbrooke is really making headway – and not just academically. The motto of the school is ‘Opportunities for All to Enjoy and Succeed’ and to that end every student is helped to achieve their full potential.

At the top end there are nine

Jody Brett and Sophie Castle

Oxbridge candidates this year – the highest ever. Carisbrooke has a strong track record with it’s A Level outcomes securing a “Very Good” judgment from ALPS (Advanced Level Performance Systems) which compares over a 1,000 providers nationally. This places Carisbrooke in the top 20 per cent of schools nationally. Equally impressive is the schools results at GCSE. Last summer it set new standards across the Island and the “value added” progress made by it’s students is rated by OfSTED as in the top 15 per cent of schools nationally Carisbrooke secured the best ever Island result at GCSE with 50 per cent 5A*-C(inc EM) and for GCSE Maths on it’s own this figure leaps to 60 per cent. The latter has

been something of a passion for Mr. Jeapes who has a degree in Mathematics from Kings College.

Carisbrooke’s Maths revision trips have become very popular and have been showcased by the Youth Sport Trust. Its Maths Department currently supports several local and national schools.

“The strong ethos and value of the school is based on getting the basics right consistently; uniform, homework and attendance,” said Mr. Jeapes. “Enjoyment has to be at the heart of it. We want students to leave Carisbrooke saying they enjoyed the experience. It’s all about respect. Students need boundaries and we’re making sure the basics are there.”

But it isn’t just about results.

There is a strong sense of community at Carisbrooke.

Recently, Carisbrooke Primary School performed its Nativity Play to the High School’s Sixth Form, an event much enjoyed by staff and students. The school also held it’s carol service at St Mary’s to a packed church. In Mr Jeapes words “It was a fantastic event, which really raised the roof. Whilst we are not a faith school, we are a school with faith. We have a very strong ethos supported by traditional values” My old school has transformed itself into one of the most successful in the country and I would invite any ex pupils to visit the website to find out more. www. carisbrookehighscool.co.uk.

Cycling on the X Bikes

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SPORT

The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009

RAIDERS SLAM SEVEN

The Wightlink Raiders secured another convincing win on the road as they beat Peterborough 7-1.

Raiders American import John Sarno sealed the man of the match award after he put on a great performance scoring three goals and assisting on a fourth.

Alex Murray showed his class once again, scoring two goals and assisiting on another two as he

continues to establish himself as natural utility player.

It was also a big night for Island trained youngster Kieran Annis, who notched up his first goal as a Raider and fulfilled his long held ambition to score for the team he’s followed all his life.

James Udell also slotted the puck home to record his fourth goal of the season, while Damon Larter,

Stewart Tait, Danny Hughes and coach Jeremy Cornish all registered assists.

Matt Colclough put in another solid performance between the sticks, allowing only one Peterborough goal from the 22 shots thrown at him.

Meanwhile, the Raiders are delighted to announce the signing of Joe Reynolds, brother to recently

returning defenceman Luke Reynolds.

Joe is a utility player that can play at both ends of the ice, and will initially help bolster the Raiders forward lines. Joe signs from the Streatham Redskins where he has spent the past few seasons, after previous spells in Bracknell and Haringey.

A Wightlink Raiders spokesperson

said: “He is a player with a great work ethic and will battle for the team every shift. He brings great depth to the team and will give coach Cornish more options on match nights.”

Joe will make his home debut tomorrow (Saturday) as the Raiders return to Ryde Arena in the return leg against the Peterborough Islanders with a 6pm face-off.

WEST WINS AT A TROT

PORT RUN COMES TO END

Newport’s six-match unbeaten run came to an end, as they were defeated 1-0 away at Bemerton Heath Harlequins.

A penalty awarded after 10 minutes for a dubious handball was enough to settle the match. Newport goalkeeper Gary Streeter got a hand to the resulting spot kick, but he was unable to stop it.

The visitors had more of the play in the second half, but they were unable to find a breakthrough and fell to only their second away defeat of the season. The result leaves Port in ninth place in the Sydenhams Wessex League Premier Division.

Meanwhile at Westwood Park, Cowes Sports went down 4-0 against Hayling

Island to leave them rooted to the bottom of the table.

Nathan Paxton, Nicholas Tayler, Laurence Wall and substitute Sam Pitkeathly got the goals for the visitors.

At Vicarage Lane, goals from Scott Joyce and Nathan Walker gave Wimborne Town all three points against Brading Town.

In the Sydenhams

Wessex League Division 1, East Cowes Vics recorded a 5-3 away win against Hythe and Dibden. Leon Day, Andy Ebbs, John McKie (two) and an own goal helped Vics to victory.

However it wasn’t all good news for the visitors, as Steve Perfect and Andy Tyrell were sent off as Vics finished the game with nine men.

NOT IN A HURRIE!

A late, late try by Dan Robinson gave Sandown and Shanklin rugby team a dramatic victory against rivals Fordingbridge.

The game started brightly and for the first 25 minutes both teams were getting close to the try line, but a combination of good defending and infringements kept both sides at a zero score.

Charlie Sutton started to probe over the visitors defence line with long kicks for support players to run on to.

The cold weather finally started to tell, with a number of knock on balls for both sides. Kern Wales returned after a short lay off, replacing Wil Baxendall after he received a dead leg.

On 32 minutes, the Fordingbridge fly-half knocked on near to his own 22 metre line. Sam Rees scooped

the ball up and ran for the line. He was tackled, but managed to slip the ball to Charlie Sutton to score a try, converted by Alex Howard, to make it 7-0.

The visitors immediately hit back, a long high, field kick leading two Hurricane players to collide, leaving the ball open for the visitors to pick up and score an unconverted try.

Half Time 7-5.

Soon after the break Hurries missed a penalty kick and the visitors turned up the pressure with fierce tackling keeping the Hurries in their half.

This pressure finally paid off and led to a converted try for Fordingbridge after the ball was spun out quickly along their backs.

This galvanised the Hurries and spurred on by scrum half, and Zeta pdl man-of-the-match

Richard Booth, the Hurries started to dominate with some physical encounters. Howard added a penalty kick, 10-12.

As play went into injury time, Wightlink man-of-the-match, hooker Danny Thomas picked up and drove forward 10 metres. As the defenders moved back, the ball was spun out to Howard, who managed to find a gap in the visitors defence to breach the defence, before Dan Robinson picked a clever angle and received the ball from Howard. He immediately received an ankle tap tackle, but staying on his feet, weaved in and out of three further defenders to touch down, to spark scenes of jubilation amongst players and fans.

Howard added the conversion and the final whistle was blown, with a final score of 17-12.

Freshwater Bay Golf Club’s Midweek Whisky Trot saw Chris West (12) take Division 1 with 41 points and John Veal (15) in second on 40 points.

Division 2 had the top three players tied on 37 points, when separated on count back Dennis Smith (19) finished in first place, John Wisker second playing off 23 handicap and John Herbert third The weekend Stableford saw some good scoring in Division 1 but judging by the final points Division 2 players found conditions a lot harder with John Wisker taking pride of place this time with 34 points, Malc Williams (16) finished second on a mere 30 and Dennis Smith (19) was

almost too ashamed to take third with only 28.

Five handicapper Kevin Garrett returned 39 points to take Division 1 while Bill Hinchen (7) came out second on count back with 37 points, holding off Kasey Tuckey and Ian Ball with the same score.

The Four Ball South African Scramble was definitely a game of two halves with the winning team of Kevin Garrett, Bill Hinchen, Hugh Morrison and Derek Wright returning a total of 358 points, scoring only 80 on the front nine and a massive 278 on the way back.

John Veal, Dave Wright, Nick Punter and Ian Ball came in second a mere 150 points behind.

MEDAL FOR CLOKE Bob Cloke was in impressive form during Westridge Golf Club’s Medal event.

Bob, playing off 16, shot a gross 69 for a smart nett total of 53. But even that score was only just good enough to see off the challenge of Mick Willis, who carded a 75, playing off 21, for a nett round of 54.

There was another tight

finish in the weekend Medal qualifier, with Joe Wright (6) finishing with a nett 58, the same as Ernie Moore, who was playing off 16. But Joe took the honours on countback from Ernie, with Malcolm Prouton taking third spot with a nett 59,just ahead of fourth-placed Chris Wilkinson, who carded a 61.

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Sport

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SPORT

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TORNADOES IN THRILLER Words by Jamie White, Picture by Jason Kay

The IW Tornadoes U12s ice hocky team were narrowly defeated 9-8 in a thrilling encounter against Oxford Stars.

The team travelled up to the Midlands and made a good start to the match. Blain Pugh made an early breakthrough for the visitors inside the first minute after some great build up play and quick passing.

Levi Coles played his first ever game at the age of just four years old, making Tornadoes history as the youngest ever player to play an under 12’s game. Ben Mcloughlin played very well and earned himself ‘spirit of the game’.

After a nail biting first period, the Tornadoes were in control and took a 4-2 lead into the break.

The second period brought more great crowd-pleasing action from both sides.

The Tornadoes scored again on the 22-minute mark, but this gave Oxford the lift that they needed and they scored three quick goals and started to put more pressure on the tornadoes defence.

Keelan Walsh and Blain Pugh both completed hat tricks and Kieran Taverner also found the back of the net twice, but the visitors were just edged out by their mainland counterparts 9-8.

JUNIORS GO BOWLING ALONG

The annual Juniors v Adults Bowls match took place at the IOW Indoor Bowls Club, Ryde.

This year there was a wide range of abilities between the juniors with seven of the experienced U25s squad making up teams with some of the young newcomers.

The experience of taking this step up in competition enables the younger juniors to begin to feel part of a team for the first time. Rink One consisting of Tansy Wheeler, Lucas Trigg, Josh Berry and Sam Lines (skip) and eight-year-old Jack Stamp, took on a strong team of adults comprising J.Berry, M.Wallace, B.Wallace and R.Jemson.

The youngsters played well to hold the score to 9-11 at twelve ends. However, it was the more experienced adults that went on to win by 20-11.

Rink Two saw 12-year-old Joe Rackstraw, Ryan Selby, Peter Wheeler and Jack Berry (skip) with nine-yearold Matthew Thompsett, take on adults G.Stevens, R. Heffer, K. Beckett and J.

Pearce.

The youngsters played extremely well and held the adult team to 6-6 at seven ends and then 10-10 at thirteen ends.

However, the adults experience paid off and they picked up eight shots over the final five ends to win 18-13.

The final rink – Rink Three with Ryan Trigg, 13-year-old Liam Westmore, Kieran Clark and Travis Meller (skip) and eight-year-old Maeve Hawthorne played K. Critchley, I.Wallace, B. Rodwell and D.Fredericks in what turned out to be a one sided game. The juniors stormed into 12 shots lead after six ends, extending their lead to 20 shots at twelve ends.

All of the juniors played exceptionally well and went on to win, with the final score being 27-6.

With the scores added up over the three rinks

the final result was Juniors 51, Adults 44.

County Coach Richard Lovell presented Maeve Hawthorne, Jack Stamp and Joe Rackstraw with Sports 4 Kids certificates.

Up and coming young player, Tansy Wheeler was awarded the Most Improved Junior Cup for the progress she has made this past year. Tansy is now knocking on the door of the U25s team and, if she continues her improvement will no doubt be a strong candidate for the future.

Tansy Wheeler and County Coach Richard Lovell

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The Gazette, Friday, December 18, 2009