IW Gazette 9 by The Isle of Wight Gazette

the gazette isle of wight

Please make a small donation

Helping the local Earl Mountbatten Hospice 36,000 copies - Friday 21st November 2008

Ferries war: end FREE in sight at last WIN INSIDE YOUR

GAZETTE

THE ferry war that has raged across the Solent between Yarmouth and Lymington over the planned introduction of Wightlink’s new vessels could soon be at an end. Wightlink has told The Gazette it is confident that the first of its three new super ferries will be up and running before the end of December.

The forecast comes despite claims from Lymington harbour master Ryan Willigers that it could be well into the New Year before all the concerns over the route from west Wight to the mainland is resolved. After exhaustive trials at sea and in Lymington Harbour estuary, Wightlink has now revealed it has received a passenger

By Peter White

certificate for new ferry ‘Wight Light’. Kerry Jackson, marketing manager for the operator, said: “As far as we are concerned there is nothing to stop us now.” But Mr Willigers, who worked for Wightlink until 2006 before leaving to become harbour master at Lymington, insists: “We want an end to this matter, but without com“We have to be sure promising the safety of vessels can operate safely people using Lymington in the river so people’s Harbour, or the environlives are not put at risk, ment. and that a protected site is

not damaged in any way.” One of the main stumbling blocks for Wightlink in setting up the new service was thought to be

the fact it needed to adapt the link span in their harbour berth at Lymington to allow vehicle access to and from their

bigger ferries. Work could not begin until a special licence had been obtained from the Marine and Fisheries Agency, and that was likely to take several more months. But now Wightlink has come up with a compromise plan that has taken Lymington by surprise. They have revealed the existing link span can be used, but for a while foot passengers will have to embark and disembark on the same access as vehicles, rather than through a side door. Kerry Jackson confirmed: “Exhaustive studies have been undertaken and trials conducted Continued on page 6

Theatre eyesore leaves locals fuming

ANGRY residents in Shanklin Old Village and Luccombe are demanding to know why a former theatre has been turned into an ‘eyesore’ after being partially demolished.

walking away from the site. Now there are suggestions a mainland developer has deliberately left what remains of the Portico in such a poor condition so he can put pressure on the IW Council for planning The Portico Theatre in permission for a new Priory Road has been housing complex. left in a dilapidated state Anne Bishop, a member after demolition workers of Shanklin Town Council began bulldozing it before and IW councillor for

Shanklin South, echoed the feelings of people living close to the site, expressing her disappointment that a one-time focal point in the area had been left abandoned. She said: “When the town council was first approached about the Upper Chine School site there was talk of a motel, restaurant, theatre and tourist facilities. Since

then the site has been sold off piecemeal and largely for residential use. “I am extremely concerned that the theatre, formerly the Margaret Passmore Theatre, and later the Portico, is now derelict and an eyesore.” The site is thought to be now owned by a Sussex property developer, who The Gazette has so far been unable to contact. Ryde Demolition began removing the Portico several months ago. When we contacted them at the time to enquire why work had stopped a spokesman said: “We have moved on to an emergency job.” Now a Ryde Demolition spokesman has said: “We will be back sometime, but we don’t know when. I don’t think it will be before Christmas. We have other work on.” Following a recent visit by an IW Council official, Ryde Demolition have now been told to make the site safe.

All that’s left of the Portico Theatre Council head of planning Bill Murphy said: “The council received an application for a demolition notice at the Portico Theatre in March and some works have since been carried out. “As part of the demolition notice, the applicants are required to make sure the site is safe and secure. A surveyor from the council visited the site and observed that some of the secure fencing around the area is not suitable, which needs addressing. “Under current legislation, the council has the

power to require the site to be made secure but has no authority to prevent demolition work as the building is not listed nor within a conservation area. We have since spoken to the applicant to make sure the site is made secure as a matter of urgency”. A source revealed: “It’s the same old story of a developer doing something like this on purpose. He pulls part of the building down to make it look an eyesore, then puts pressure on the council to get planning permission.”

36 pints of Ventnor Beer courtesy of the Broadway Inn

Christmas at Osborne

Page 4

Pop idol wows ‘em

Page 9

Island Life Food & Drink Awards

Page 16

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

the gazette Contact Details tel: (01983) 402599 email: newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk address: The Isle of Wight Gazette Unit B18 Spithead Business Centre Newport Road Sandown Isle of Wight. PO36 9PH

sales: 01983 402599 Laura Webb James Rolfe Anne Bishop

Published by: The Isle of Wight Gazette Ltd Editor: Martin Potter Reporters: Jamie White, Peter White, Roz Whistance, Richard Collins Sub Editor: Paul Rainford Distribution: Isle of Wight Distribution Ltd. Design: Colin Clarke, Richard Heaven

Supporting the Earl Mountbatten Hospice through your generous donations when you pick up your free copy. * (Front page) Print runs may vary from issue to issue

Issue 9

November 21st 2008

Island songbird reaches News Round-up national talent final

BY day Anycia Macedo has to deal with restless teenagers as a teaching assistant at Sandown High School; by night she transforms herself into a singing sensation, wowing audiences at the Bembridge Coast Hotel.

And now Anycia is set for national acclaim as one of two Island acts to have made it through to the National Grand Final of Idol 2008, after a votewinning performance at the regional finals. She will now compete amongst the UK’s best at Portsmouth Guildhall on November 29. Last year saw over 10,000 singers, dancers, vocal groups and dance groups entering, making the competition the largest talent contest outside ITV’s X Factor show. Anycia, who lives in Ryde, is surprised and delighted to have made it through to the finals: “I was totally amazed when I was told I had made it through. I am so happy. “For my first audition I sang ‘Song Bird’ by Eva Cassidy. I sang it at a friend’s wedding, so it

New lifeboat

THE Isle of Wight Council has granted planning permission for a new lifeboat station to be built in Bembridge. A temporary Mersey class lifeboat will be housed in the compound on Silver Sands beach which has to be towed out by tractor to be launched. The new Tamar class lifeboat is set to arrive in 2010. The lifeboat station shop is now operating under its winter timetable and will be open on Wednesdays and Sundays from 2-4pm until December 21.

Ferry door failure

A MAJOR investigation is underway after the door of a Wightlink Ferry opened during a sailing. The crossing from Lymington to Yarmouth was already battling the weather when the door became loose and opened. “Wightlink can confirm that the side passenger access door did open during the crossing and a full investigation is taking place. The vessel was withdrawn from service once all passengers and their vehicles had disembarked in Yarmouth,” said a representative of the company.

Award for car parks is very special to me. In the next audition I chose to sing Michael Bolton’s ‘How Am I Supposed to Live Without You’, as it was a little bit different to what other people had chosen to sing.” Anycia started her entertainment career seven years ago as a Redcoat at Butlins. She then moved to Pontins to be a Bluecoat, before moving to the Island in 2002 to work at the Warner’s Norton Grange Hotel. After 18 months, Anycia moved to Bembridge Coast Hotel to sing in the Doug Watson Band, the hotel’s resident group. “It’s hard work, but I absolutely love it. I would obviously love to win Idol 2008, but just singing in

front of all those people at the Guildhall will be such an amazing experience,” said Anycia. The competition offers singers and dancers the opportunity to perform live in front of large audiences as well as the chance to win up to £25,000 in prizes if crowned the UK’s Idol 2008. The other act from the Island to have made the National Grand Final is the dancing duo Wight Chicks, which was formed by Annabel Randall and Rebecca Kidd. There are 20 finalists and there will only be four winning acts from the original 10,000 competitors.

Island Mortgage Solutions For Buy To Let

01983 533777

admin@islandmortgagesolutions.co.uk

How much raised so far? We are glad to say that the readers of The Gazette have now raised approximately £7,300 in total for the local Hospice. Well done and thank you for your support.

Competition winners The winner of the dinner for four at SWAD competition held in the last issue was Mr Tom Guy, Newport.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

TWO Isle of Wight Council maintained car parks have won awards that recognise reductions in criminal activity. The accolades, known as ‘Park Marks’, have been awarded to Coppins Bridge Car Park in Newport and St Thomas Street (Upper) Car Park in Ryde. The award is given by the police to car parks that have achieved the standards of the Safer Parking Scheme, an initiative run by the Association of Chief Police Officers.

Vandals target cars

POLICE are investigating suspected criminal damage against cars parked in Brighstone during a bonfire party in the village. Three vehicles were left on the right-hand side of Moor Lane by motorists on the evening of Friday, November 7. A red Toyota Yaris, a green Renault Laguna and a black Nissan Navara were all scratched on two sides, causing several hundred pound’s worth of damage. Police believe the damage to the cars could have been a deliberate act of criminal damage. Anyone with information is asked to call Crimestoppers on 0845 045 4545.

Mistaken identity

TWO investigations are underway after data blunders on the Island. The first incident occurred when a woman from Lake was sent 14 pages of details she would need to set up a bank account or get a credit card in someone else’s name. Sue Trafford received details including the name, address, account number and sort code and details of transactions of a Shanklin woman. The second victim has allegedly been sent court papers relating to two complete strangers. A spokesperson for the county court said full investigations were taking place.

Horse dies in crash

A HORSE has been knocked down and killed in Rookley. The fire and rescue service and police were called to Main Road to a report of the collision. The horse was removed from the road by members of the fire service. Police are looking in to why the horse was not in it’s paddock. The driver of the car involved in the collision was said to be uninjured, but in a state of shock.

Rural investment

A £2.6m contract which will deliver rural development and economic benefits to the Isle of Wight, while supporting more than 200 local projects, has been presented to IW Council and IW Economic Partnership. The award of European funding from SEEDA, the South East England Development Agency, will be used to help support farmers, foresters, growers, rural businesses and rural communities to make agriculture more competitive while improving the quality of life in rural areas.

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Have you got news for us? newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk

Fire damages Shanklin hotel

INVESTIGATIONS have started to try to find out what caused a fire at a hotel in Shanklin. The blaze was reported at around 2.45am on Tuesday, (November 18) morning at The Montrose Hotel in Wilton Park Road.

It is believed that the fire started in the roofspace, with extensive

damage to the first floor and the roof of the building. There is said to be no damage to the ground floor. There were seven appliances and around 50 firefighters called to the blaze, which was finally put out at around 6.30am. Steve Chapman, from the IW Fire Service, said: “As we approached the building we saw smoke and

flames billowing out of the top. It looked very intense. We soon managed to established that there was no one in the building, which was obviously very lucky with a hotel fire. “Most of the damage is in the loft space. That was where the fire was most intense. Fire investigators have been on the scene to try and ascertain how it started.”

Education report offers hope to ‘doomed’ schools THE Isle of Wight Council’s latest proposals regarding its controversial education reforms offer a glimmer of hope to two of the primary schools threatened with effective closure.

The appointment of an independent review panel made up of educational professionals to consider the council’s plans in Yarmouth and St Helens is one of the recommendations being put forward. The panel would review proposals and later meet local communities before forwarding a report to the council’s cabinet early next year. Nettlestone, Brading and Shalfleet schools would also come under the ambit of this independent review. A detailed report, following the evaluation of around 1,700 representations to the council from concerned parents and others with a view on the plans, will be presented to the council’s cabinet meeting on Monday, November 24. Members will then decide on the next stage forward.

review panel to look at those areas of significant response will give the council and the local community An explanation of what the proposals will mean to each school are an impartial and fresh look at parts of the proposal, which I am sure included in the papers, as well as will be welcomed should members statistics showing why the council decide to proceed with our recombelieves a change to a two-tier mendations.”  system offers the best opportunity Chris Welsford, chairman of to improve standards. The papers the Standard Not Tiers organisacan be seen on www.iwight.com tion and a strong opponent of the under ‘Your Council’ then ‘meetcouncil’s proposals for education ings’ and following links to the reform, was dismissive of the plan cabinet section.   to appoint a review panel: “They Keith Woods, IW Council direcreally didn’t have much choice, as tor for children and young people, the response from Yarmouth and said: “The latest report clearly St Helens was so overwhelming. If demonstrates the council has listened during the formal consulta- anything, the decision rather undermines the council’s own officers. tion period.  “It is interesting that the schools “One example is the local comthat will be looked at in this review munity in Sandown suggesting the amalgamation of St John’s and are the ones with barristers on their teams. It is really just another tactic Sandown primary schools takes place across the two sites instead of in what is a highly political game.” The cabinet will meet in the just the latter one. This was a very valid idea presented to the council, council chamber at County Hall, Newport, at 6pm on Monday, Noand one we are proposing to take vember 24. People can attend, alforward.  though there will be limited space.  “Appointing an independent By Richard Collins

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

Advertise with us Call 402599

Photos by Jamie White Festive wreaths adorn one of the entrances to Osborne House

A Victorian Christmas – with all the trimmings IT IS 108 YEARS since Queen Victoria spent her last Christmas in Osborne House.

But if she could only see it now as it prepares for this year’s festivities, there is no doubt that she would be giving it the Royal seal of approval. Staff have spent many hours decorating the house in East Cowes, and hundreds of visitors are expected to walk through the downstairs rooms over the next few weeks to marvel at the decorations, which include nine Christmas trees. Julia Fromm, Osborne’s visitor operations site supervisor, explains: “We have tried to make it as authentic as possible – to have everything as it would have been in Queen Victoria’s time. We have used hints of ginger and mandarin to create a pleasant Christmas scent. “Traditionally Prince Albert would have decorated the tree with bags of spices and toys, and we have done the same now. Prince Albert really is the one who made Christmas famous.

By Peter White “In the dining room, the Christmas banquet would have been quite a feast. There would have been cakes, jelly, nuts, oranges and ice cream. Queen Victoria had been known to eat at least six or seven courses. And as soon as her fork went down to say she had finished, everybody finished. Each person had their own servant. “The Durbar Room was known as Victoria’s Indian Banqueting hall. There would have been decorations and three Christmas trees in the room. This was the main room used for dancing and other entertainment.” Michael Hunter, curator of the Osborne Christmas, believes that there may be useful money-saving lessons to be learned from the way Queen Victoria liked to do things. “It may be taking the credit crunch Continued on page 4

How Queen Victoria’s Christmas banquet would have looked in the 1800s

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Double the festive fun THE Christmas spirit is coming early to Shanklin and Seaview, with both places planning festive fun for Saturday December 6.

further round the coast, Seaview Yacht Club’s dancers, a dog agility Grand Christmas Bazaar show, stilt walkers and, of opens its doors. This course, old white whisoffers Islanders the chance kers himself in his Falcon to do some stress-free Cross Hall grotto. Christmas shopping and In Shanklin, the ChristWarming food in the offers local crafts, jewelmas Festival is back for form of a hog roast and lery, paintings and more. its fourth year, with a hot soup will be on hand It runs from 10am-noon, something-for-everyone to keep any winter chill at entrance is free, and line-up of entertainment bay. It all starts at 10am. mince pies, coffee and that includes the Shanklin Meanwhile, on the drinks from the bar are Youth Brass Band, Morris same day but a few miles available. By Richard Collins

All About Catering One of the nine decorated trees in the house

Continued from page 5 a bit far to give your loved ones a joint of meat, plum pudding, blanket or a flannel petticoat on Christmas Day, but following some of Queen Victoria’s festive money-saving measures may not come amiss this year. “Decorating your home with garlands of dried herbs and ferns, tying sweets and strings of almonds and raisins to your Christmas tree, making your own cards and switching off the TV to put on some good old-fashioned family entertainment in the way Queen Victoria celebrated at Osborne House, will all help to ease the squeeze.” Visitors to Osborne’s Christmas extravaganza will hear how the Queen spent almost all of her Christmases at the house following Prince Albert’s early death in 1861, until her last Christmas in 1900. She died at Osborne soon afterwards on January 22, 1901. “Candles in the Christmas trees were lit when presents were exchanged on Christmas Eve, snuffed out and relit on Christmas Day,” adds Mr Hunter. “Gifts

were graded according to the rank and station of the recipients – labourers received meat or plum pudding while their wives were given blankets or flannel petticoats! “Members of the royal household received more generous gifts of small items of jewellery, perhaps with a pocket book and gingerbread man, while close family received more personal presents, including items made by themselves – many of which can still be seen at Osborne. Queen Victoria never scrimped on food, however, with no fewer than five courses consisting of 12 dishes being served at Osborne on Christmas Day 1896 – not to mention the side table featuring a baron of beef, woodcock pie, brawn, wild boar’s head and game pie! And you thought you felt bloated after Christmas lunch.

For All Occasions

delicious food, beautifully presented, professionally served

David Rogers 01983 248 500 www.allaboutcatering.co.uk

*Tours take in the ground floor rooms and last around an hour. They run until January 4. Call 01983 200022 for more information.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

Now that’s magic! By Peter White

ISLAND illusionist Aaron Isted kept his promise to perform one of his most talkedabout tricks during the Sandown Bonfire Night celebrations.

Aaron, who lives in Ventnor, had only just returned from a successful working break in the United States, but thrilled a huge crowd around Sandown Esplanade and Pier Street with his ‘Dead Man’s Chest’ illusion. His father Jim was among the onlookers, and described the action. He said: “Aaron came out dressed in an open shirt, leather waistcoat and tricorner hat with two of his young female assistants, throwing gold doubloons into the crowd. “After walking to the

Continued from front page into the prospective impact and operation of the Wight Class vessels; and no substantive issues have arisen that would preclude them from now entering service.” Chris Lisher, harbour master at Yarmouth, expressed his delight that the wranglings over the new ferries could soon be at an end. He said: “The sooner these ferries are operating the better it will be for Yarmouth. They create a huge amount of income for us, not just for the harbour but for businesses and residents of west Wight as well.” As soon as Wightlink announced the proposed introduction of their three new ferries, concerns were expressed at Lymington that they could

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Aaron with his two assistants after his stunt

Aaron thrills crowd bonfire he climbed into the chest and was chained and padlocked in with new locks supplied by Moreys. A tarpaulin was wrapped and tied round the trunk, two of the helpers then poured white seriously affect other harbour users and the environment because of extra water displacement by the vessels. Ferries have been constantly monitored on electronic equipment to ensure they do not exceed the six knots-perhour speed limit in the harbour. And there have been rumours that wind gauges could be installed in the harbour, and ferries would not be allowed to leave if wind speed went beyond 25 knots. Such measures would seriously disrupt the ferry service if implemented. Wightlink already has two of its new ferries, ‘Wight Light’ and ‘Wight Sky’, ready to run after delivery from the builders’ yard in Croatia, while the third, ‘Wight Sun’, should follow soon.

spirit all over the trunk and bonfire, and it was soon an inferno. “There were a few concerns among the crowd that he was taking too long to get out because the trunk could no longer

be seen in the raging fire. “Then the PA system announced the special guest fireman who had been standing in attendance watching the fire being lit with his axe in hand was in fact Aaron, who took off his helmet and took a bow to rapturous applause from the crowd.”

They shoot! They score!

WITH England’s dismal record on penalty shoot-outs, our football stars of the future can’t start practising too soon.

So it is especially heartening to hear that the Little Kickers IOW

raised more than £250 for Children in Need by completing a sponsored penalty shoot-out. The Little Kickers club runs approved football training for children aged from 18 months to seven at venues in Sandown, Newport and Ryde.

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Garbage in, energy out START talking rubbish, and there are a dedicated group of workers just outside Newport who will soon tell you the benefits of doing exactly that. Just along the Forest Road there is a never ending battle to ensure the Island is a cleaner, greener and more eco-friendly place to live.

By Richard Collins

know that the new gasification plant on the outskirts of Newport can now process huge amounts of rubbish, and turn it into electricity – enough to power a staggering 3,000 homes all year round.  The plant, run by Energos in Over the past few years many of association with Biffa subsidiary us have tried to do our bit when Island Waste Services and the IW it comes to recycling waste and Council, is currently undergoing rubbish, whether it’s putting out final tests, and should become fully empty bottles, jars and old newspa- operational early in the New Year.   pers for kerbside collection, or trav- The plant initially began producelling to a site with garden refuse ing fuel pellets, which were burned to be transformed into compost and at the former site, but floc fuel has mulch. been processed there since 2001. But what happens to the waste Until last year it was transported to that is seemingly impossible to a cement kiln in Lincolnshire for recycle? Well it is reassuring to use in the cement industry. But the

new gasification plant means the Island can be more ecologically friendly and produce twice as much floc fuel as previously shipped off the Island. But why does the Island need energy from waste? Here are the main reasons: • It increases diversion from landfill – satisfying both contractual and EU targets and helping the landfill problem.  • The cost of cross-Solent transportation is a significant factor for all materials, coupled with unpredictable markets for recycled materials.   • A desire to be self-sufficient.  Island Waste Services senior manager Dennis Cooke says: “The waste comes in natural form. The newspapers and magazines go direct to the markets on the mainland. We have separate sections for different waste. Organic waste is used as dirty compost.   “The rest of the stuff, including wood, plastics, paper and cardboard goes to our treatment plants and is baled up and then sent to the power plants to be used as fuel. In the process, all the steel and aluminium is extracted.   “We do the glass collection from the kerbside along with the paper rounds, and again that goes to the mainland markets. About 30 tonnes of glass is taken from the kerbside and transported to the mainland to be recycled, along with the waste steel.”  So next time you struggle out with your bag of rubbish in the dark and the pouring rain, remember: it’s all in a good cause – and that cause is recycling.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

What a bright idea PEOPLE on the Island are being offered the chance to make their homes more secure in an environmentally friendly way.

By Jamie White

on and off at any given time. They are also giving away low energy light bulbs, which have been donated by the Footprint Thanks to a bright new initiative, a simple crime Trust in support of the campaign. prevention measure means that residents leave IW Council director of a light on to give the im- environment and neighpression they are at home bourhoods, Stuart Love said: “This imaginative when away from their scheme will help ensure property. the Island stays a safe and However, the downenvironmentally friendly side of this move is that place to live. leaving a light on in an “The timers mean that unoccupied property the light bulbs can be could be deemed to be a programmed to come on waste of energy. only when it is dark, as Now the IW Crime opposed to being left on and Disorder Reduction all day. These light bulbs Partnership, which is a use only a fraction of the collaboration between energy taken up by tradithe IW Council, Hampshire Police, the IW NHS tional ones.” Residents can ask for Primary Care Trust and crime prevention advice the Rural Community or request the switches Council, has come up and bulbs by contacting with a solution. their local safer neighThey are offering, free bourhoods team online of charge, timer switches at http://www.hampshire. that can be set to automatically turn light bulbs police.uk/Internet/localpolicing/isleofwight

Lifeboat saves dog THE quick thinking of Bembridge lifeboat’s coxswain saved the life of a dog in difficulty out at sea.

Steve Simmonds, who has been the full-time coxswain at the RNLI station in Lane End Road, Bembridge for five years, was heading along lifeboat pier when he spotted the dog stranded clinging to a marker buoy. He said: “I spotted the dog, Tia, on the beach with her owner. She was particularly interested in a cormorant she had spotted out at sea. Next thing you know, she’s in the water trying to chase it. “She seemed to lose all her energy. I spotted a dinghy on the beach and I knew the lifeboat station had some oars, so I just did the decent thing and rowed out to fetch her.” Steve continued: “I pulled her over the stern of the boat and got her in. She was really passive and seemed genuinely relieved to be on board. “I suppose it just goes to show that a lifeboat crew member is never off duty,” Steve added. Bembridge RNLI Lifeboat Station is currently in the midst of a two-year public appeal to raise money towards the rebuilding of the lifeboat station and a replacement boathouse. It will also go towards the cost of the new Tamar class lifeboat, which will come into service in a couple of years time.

Hospice news Christmas comes to Bembridge Sailing Club AN EXCLUSIVE Christmas Fair bringing together 32 stands of imaginative and highly unusual seasonal gifts is being held at Bembridge Sailing Club on November 28-29. Many of the companies have never been to the fair before including The Adventurer, The Book People, Exquisite, The Finishing Touch, Harts Desire, Henny Penny Designs, Minty Hen, Pink and Blue, Puffin Bay, Rosemary Vineyard SeaSaw, Silk Treasures and Tastes and Tablesettings. The fair will be opened on Friday at 5pm by Alan Titchmarsh and entry is £6.50 to include wine and canapés. On Saturday the fair will run from 10am to 4pm and entry is £2.50. Light refreshments will be available and the event will raise funds for the Island’s hospice and six other charities. Parking is free.

Dinosaur Isle to host council chairman’s coffee morning

On Saturday November 22 from 10am to 1pm £1 will buy you a cup of coffee, entrance into Dinosaur Isle at Yaverland and the opportunity to talk to IW Council chairman Arthur Taylor, all in aid of the Island’s hospice and Haylands Farm. It will also be an opportunity to purchase EMH calendars, diaries, Christmas cards and toys. Light refreshments will be available and there will be a raffle and tombola. Cllr Taylor said: ”The coffee morning is a great way to raise funds for my chosen charities, both of which do invaluable work on the Island. I hope people will take the opportunity to visit Dinosaur Isle and join me for a cup of coffee in support of these two great causes.”

Parlex Quiz nets £4,000 for Hospice

Over £4,000 was raised for the Island’s hospice at the 2008 annual Huge Hospice Quiz organised by Parlex and held at Lower Hyde in Shanklin. This year 76 teams took part in the brainteasing event hosted by Isle of Wight Radio’s Ian Mac. During the intervals a range of goods were auctioned including Jude Law’s autograph, a bicycle, a pair of diamond earrings and the opportunity to take part in a sailing event. Since its inception the Huge Hospice Quiz has raised in excess of £30,000 for EMH.

Bubblegum & cheese for the Hospice

Alex Dyke and sidekick Jessie brought St George’s Park to life with their famous Bubblegum and Cheese Disco Night. Around 200 revellers danced the night away and a cash donation was made to the Hospice. Community fundraiser for the Hospice said: “It was a fun, lively and entertaining with great dance music.”

Forty years in music celebrated

Dave Cannon celebrated 40 years as an Island DJ by hosting a fundraiser for EMH that raised £1,050. The sell-out event packed Ryde Castle and was a great opportunity to dance to music from the last forty years. “The event was a knockout and I wanted to do it for the hospice because if you live here and don’t know someone who has needed it you are very lucky,” said Dave. At the start of the event Dave presented a cheque to the hospice. EMH and Dave Cannon would like to express their thanks to Ladies Realm for their support of this event.

Hospice fundraising: 528989 Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news Photos by Jamie White

Seventies Pop Idol David Cassidy gives a thumbs-up to the Isle of Wight and his adoring fans

Friends reunited by evergreen teen idol TWO women who became friends after meeting at a David Cassidy concert were reunited on the Island when they travelled here to greet the 1970s pop music idol.

Doris Pintscher made the trip all the way from California to see Cassidy, who took part in a ‘meetthe-fans’ forum at Cowes Yacht Haven organised by Shanklin-based JKS Entertainment. The venue was kept secret until just hours before Cassidy arrived. Doris was also able to catch up on all the Cassidy news with another of his biggest fans, Jerry Moloney, who had a much shorter trip, travelling across the Solent from her home in Bournemouth. Doris and Jerry were among a crowd of around 150 women who paid nearly £300 each for the privilege of meeting 58-year-old Cassidy, who had a string of UK hits in the 1970s and 1980s. His songs included ‘Could it be Forever’, ‘How Can I Be Sure’ and ‘Daydreamer’, and he also played the role of Shirley Jones’s eldest son, Keith Partridge, in the musical sitcom ‘The Partridge Family’ from 1970 to 1974. During the day-long session, Cassidy invited each fan on to the stage for a minute to ask questions and have photographs taken with him. There was a buffet lunch before more meeting, greeting and signing. Cassidy was obvi-

By Jamie White ously enjoying himself – he stayed longer than intended and as a result missed his flight to Scotland. There were a couple of fans who didn’t get chance to speak to him, but he has personally invited them to his concert to watch him perform and have a chat afterwards. Doris Pintscher said: “I had a nightmare getting here but I am so pleased I have made it. The Isle of Wight is a beautiful place. I have been following David for many years and every time I see him it just gets better. “After this we are heading up to Glasgow in Scotland, Manchester and then back to London to see his concerts. It costs me a fortune but its well worth it. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” Jerry Moloney added: “I have been following David since the 1970s. I have watched him in concert right across America, in New York, Las Vegas, and Connecticut, as well as here in the UK. “Hopefully I will be able to get to Canada next year as well to watch him. It’s great how some fans are able to help each other as well with travel and getting tickets. Every show David puts on is always fantastic.” Among the audience was actress, TV presenter and author Julie Peasgood, who will be the star attrac-

tion in a similar event on the Island next year. Julie said: “It was really great to meet David and the day has been superb. I am doing my own meet and greet with JKS Entertainment in February. The Isle of Wight is such a fantastic place, I love it here.” JKS Entertainment owner Ken Smith said: “I am very pleased with the day. David looked liked he was really enjoying himself and made time for each one of his fans, even though the day did slightly overrun. It has definitely inspired me to carry on and do other events here on the Island.”

JKS Entertainment owner, Ken Smith

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

Pat ‘the builder’ Warne (centre) gets behind the bar to join in the fun

Fun and fund-raising helps Inshore Lifeboat OVER £1,000 was raised for the Sandown and Shanklin Inshore Lifeboat at a ‘Mad’ pub charity fun day. And a further £500 was promised to the

fund by Island building company GE Banks.

John and Maddie, licensees of the Mad Cow public house, High Street, Shanklin, who organised the fund-raising day, said “We wanted to

support a local charity that is not funded nationally, and we know what a great job the lifeboat crew do in this area.” Locals placed donations in an empty fish tank on the bar in the pub, and

Back: Landlord John, Lel Newton, Amy Mcglinn. Front: Emma Charles, Kelsey Biedler, Landlady Maddie and SSILB coxswain Mark Birch

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

John also staged a darts and bar football competition, while Simply Red tribute singer Red Mick and Simon Ledger provided further entertainment. John added: “Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves, and the winners of all the competitions donated their winnings to swell the fund. When I took over the pub I decided it would be a good idea to help a local charity, and the Inshore Lifeboat was chosen. We shall continue to support the charity for as long as I am licensee.” ‘Rubber Duck’ Mark Birch, coxswain of the Sandown and Shanklin Inshore Lifeboat, said: “We were overwhelmed by the response to the event. It was good to see so many people wanting to do something to raise money for a local cause. “We would like to thank John and his staff at the Mad Cow for working so hard to make it such a successful fund-raising event.”

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Buy a bear and show you care BAYLISS & Booth, the Newport-based classic furniture company, has launched its ‘Celebrate Christmas Event’, supporting the Naomi House Children’s Hospice.

the Hospice. Naomi House is a purpose-built children’s hospice that provides a homely environment for children and young people with life-limiting conditions. Situated just north For every Bailey or Bess of Winchester, Naomi Bear that is bought, the House provides one-toshop will be donating £1 one palliative care that towards the fund. A free includes respite, terminal Bailey or Bess bear will and bereavement care and also be given to customsupport to children and ers spending over £40 and their families in central Bayliss and Booth will southern England. donate £1 to help support

The Bailey and Bess bears

A kiss and a cagoule participants each fill in a form to say which of the LOVE was in the air at the walking weekend organised to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the other walkers they are interested in meeting up with in the future. If other walkers reciprocate, that is counted Isle of Wight Walking Festival.

The ‘speed dating walk’ has become a familiar element of the walking festival, with three marriages having resulted from previous outings. The walking weekend’s version of the romantic ramble resulted in 18 ‘love matches’, according to Anna Symcox of the Isle of Wight Council, which coordinates the event. “After they have completed the speed dating walk,

as a ‘love match’.” The walking weekend featured 47 guided walks and was attended by over 2,000 people, with around half travelling from the mainland to take part. Following positive feedback from those taking part, it may now become a permanent fixture on the Island’s events calendar. The Island’s walking festival was first held in 1999.

Terry Crow (bottom left, kneeling) with other award winners

Terry’s pirates pedal to victory GODSHILL’S Terry Crow, who was diagnosed with leukaemia ten years ago, has won a major award for his charity work.

most famous sights. “Since doing my first Bikeathon ten years ago the event has grown as it

is now part of my yearly routine,” said Terry. “I am looking forward to next July for my eleventh

Bikeathon.” More than 6,000 people took part in this year’s Bikeathon.

Terry scooped the Adult Team Fundraising Award at the London Bikeathon Awards ceremony by raising £10,600 for Leukaemia Research. He led a team of pirates, the ‘Old Cloggers and Young Whippersnappers’, on the mass participation bike ride that takes in many of the capital’s

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news Island Mortgage Solutions For Buildings & Contents

01983 533777

admin@islandmortgagesolutions.co.uk

Have you got news for us? newsdesk@ iwgazette.co.uk

Trust is a fitting tribute to Lucie THE death of 21-yearold Lucie Blackman in Japan eight years ago – recounted in all its harrowing detail by ITV’s recent ‘Real Crime: Death of a Hostess’ programme – understandably still resonates.

Lucie’s ordeal and that of her devastated family can barely be imagined. Yet the story had an altogether more uplifting sequel – the emergence in Ryde of the Lucie Blackman Trust (LBT) and its multi-faceted work to safeguard others from having to endure the sort of unthinkable events which surrounded her death. Lucie, from Sevenoaks, Kent, disappeared while working as a bar hostess in the Roppongi bar district of Tokyo. Her dismembered body was discovered 100 yards from the apartment of Japanese businessman Joji Obara, and the 54-year-old was put on trial for her rape and murder at Tokyo District Court. He was cleared of these charges. He was, however, sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of nine rapes and the death of an Australian woman. Lucie’s father, Tim, a property developer from Ryde, hit the headlines when he accepted £450,000 ‘condolence money’ from a friend of Obara’s. However, the ITV documentary helped to dispel any notion of it being ‘blood money’. Set up in 2005, the LBT’s record in assisting other families who have missing relatives is unquestionable, although it has hardly been plain sailing for the charity.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Special report by Justin Gladdis

Last year, operations manager Matt Searle, 34, was arrested on suspicion of theft from the trust fund following allegations made by a former employee. Matt was later cleared of all charges and continues his work for the Trust. “Everyone can be

the support of its trustees, LBT also operates Missing Abroad, which works in partnership with the Foreign and Commonwealth office and provides practical support for loved ones when a person is killed or goes missing. In May it enabled an Isle of Wight family to fly out

personal money into it,” says Matt. And Sarah reckons their work is a fitting tribute to Lucie’s memory: “A bit of Lucie lives on with the Trust. “It’s all about her and it’s too easy for people to be clouded by personal and legal matters involved with the case. “We are asking people to

Tim Blackman, Lucie’s distraught father touched. We are here to help and we receive an average of 600 emails a day”, says Matt. “These can range from general safety advice requests, talks in schools and colleges, right up to life-or-death situations when somebody does actually disappear and we need to raise the alarm immediately. “Primarily, we exist to give people information and resources to keep themselves safe.” With money raised and

to Fiji after ex-pat Wendy Singh was murdered. Her husband stands accused of her killing. The trust arranged for Wendy’s body to be returned to the UK for her funeral and enabled her 16-year-old autistic son, George, to be looked after by the family. Sarah Miller, head of resources and personal safety at LBT, admits the job can be exceptionally tough at times. “In some cases we have access to the most horrific details and it’s hard to not let it affect you,” she explains. “We also have to talk to extremely distressed people and try to reassure them, when all seems lost.” Following the bad publicity surrounding Matt’s arrest and Tim Blackman’s decision to accept the condolence payment, LBT has found fundraising difficult over recent months, with some of its collection boxes returned. “What people have to remember is that Tim is an amazing human being. He lives the Trust and has put a huge amount of

judge us on our work and the help we have given and continue to give, not hearsay.” As 2008 edges nearer to its close, Matt has a huge sense of pride as he looks back at what has been achieved. “Being in the arrivals hall at Heathrow one summer’s evening, I will never forget the look on a child’s face as she was reunited with the sister she thought she would never see again. “It’s those experiences which keep us going, sometimes in the face of adversity. “Tim Blackman’s presence is invaluable, especially for those families seeking answers in their hour of need. “Tim often says very few people have been through the same university of life that he has.” During my hour in their company, Matt and Sarah’s computer servers have taken delivery of no less than 14 emails from people needing help in one form or another – it looks like there is plenty more work stacking up for the LBT team.

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette property

Broadway project steals show AS YOU walk into the award-winning Grosvenor Court, you can tell that you are in a development that has been built with a clear attention to detail and to a stylish modern design.

before completion, and two are under offer. All have an allocated parking The specification is high, and each apartment space and use of the communal drying area. will be sold with a fully From the front, the fitted kitchen and a range second-floor apartments of built-in appliances have sea views and views including dishwasher towards Culver Down, and washer/dryer. The three-bedroom apartments with the first and second The spacious range of also come equipped with floor apartments at the two- and three-bedroom rear of the building also a range-style cooker and apartments are situan American-style double enjoying views towards ated on the Broadway in the downs. fridge/freezer. There is Sandown. The location Grosvenor Court has still the chance to choose provides good transport also received the soughtyour own kitchen in links, with the train several of the apartments. after NHBC ‘Pride in the station only a short walk The bathrooms are fully Job Award, which is given away, providing an easy tiled, with chrome fittings only to the very best site connection to the mainmanagers and developadding to the quality of land. ments across the country. the finish. Each master A state-of-the-art video All apartments come bedroom also has a fully entry system allows with a 10 year NHBC tiled en-suite shower visitors into the building, room, which underlines guarantee. Prices start where you are met with a the no-expense-spared ap- from £153,000. spacious entrance hall and proach of the developer. For more information mahogany-finish staircase Three of the apartments or to arrange a viewing to all floors. call 07588 142884. have already been sold By Jamie White

To buy or not to buy? FOX Property’s Managing Director, Simon Wratten, gives his views to the Gazette on whether or not the time is right to buy a property in this current climate. “It’s the question I get asked on a daily basis whether by people coming into the office, on viewings and in general conversation at a dinner party or in the school playground. “Is this a good time to buy property?” says Mr Wratten. “The answer is yes. As long as your not buying it to make an instant profit. That’s not to say that there isn’t good investment properties around at present, but anybody buying now should do so knowing that prices can fall as well as rise. “The last 12 months

have brought an average 15% drop in prices and depending on whom you believe, we’ve either now hit the bottom or prices could fall further. I have dealt with a large number of clients in the last year that have moved into rented accommodation as they didn’t want to buy a property in a falling market. A number of these people are now looking to buy as they feel the market has bottomed out and also because rented accommodation never really feels like your own home.” Mr Wratten continues: “In fact, that second point holds a lot of bearing in the property market. Are you buying just for financial investment or because you want a place to call your own that you intend to stay in for a

number of years? “If a house were purely a financial investment everybody would have sold their houses a year ago and moved into rented accommodation until prices bottomed out. But that of course didn’t happen. Buyers are still buying, even in this uncertain market, because they want a home and they see renting as money down the drain and don’t want restrictions on what they can or can’t do. “Now that the government have rescued the banks and interest rates have started to come down, confidence will be restored to the housing market and the nation’s love affair with property will no doubt bloom again...but this doesn’t mean prices will soar overnight.”

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

The day david holmes Edward KO’d the Kaiser Give homeowners a break, Gordon!

reports

By Peter White

THE tranquil setting of Cowes’ Royal Yacht Squadron has been named as the unlikely venue for the start of decades of hostilities between Britain and Germany, if a recently published book is to be believed. It is claimed that back in 1895 King Edward VII landed the first blow in anger following a spat with his German nephew the Kaiser over a boat race. And it all took place under the gaze of the Yacht Squadron. John Jeffries, who died shortly after his book ‘Maritime: Sacred to their Memory’ was published, was left in no doubt that when King Edward punched Kaiser Wilhelm on the nose it was the first blow that culminated in tension between the two countries ahead of the First World War. Edward, then the Prince of Wales, challenged Wilhelm II to a race in the boats they used to row ashore from their Royal Yachts to the steps of the Yacht Squadron at the annual Cowes Week regatta. The Kaiser won but his joy was shortlived, as the jeers and mocking of Edward by the victorious boat prompted him to ‘punch Wilhelm in the mouth and knock him down before he stormed into the yacht club’. Ron Levy, who helped edit and publish the book, explained: “It seems there was a cover-up. The sailors who all witnessed this were told they must not tell anyone.” But the trust was apparently broken by yachtsman William Brasted, one of Edward’s rowers, who recounted the tale to his family. The book was sent to the Royal Family for approval, and Mr Levy said: “I got a lovely letter back saying how interested the Queen was.” So you read it here first: the First World War had nothing to do with Sarajevo and Archduke Ferdinand and everything to do with a spot of fisticuffs on Cowes seafront.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

FIRST they said house prices couldn’t fall here like they did in America. They did. Then they said there was no way job losses here would rise as fast as they did over there. They did. They told us repossessions here wouldn’t rise as fast as they had in the US either. They are now up over 70% on last year and trust me; it hasn’t really started yet. Those now losing their jobs are at least six to twelve months away from home repossession.

How long before Gordon Brown responds to the crisis? President elect Barack Obama is introducing a bill that would make it impossible for any bank to foreclose on a mortgage for three months if the bank has accepted state aid. Here, the publicowned Northern Rock is one of the fastest to repossess if you get into trouble. They are repossessing twice as many homes since nationalisation. What a crazy situation! Obama also plans tax relief for homeowners and will give judges the power to amend mortgage payments for people losing their jobs or facing bankruptcy. Downing Street can’t even persuade banks to go easy on homeowners in difficulty, nor can they even get some to pass on the full rate cut when the bank of England slash rates. The same government that failed to control the reckless lending is the same government that now stands by as people lose everything. What amazes me is that the national press claim there’s been a Brown bounce; apparently people think he’s doing a great job managing the economic crisis. Hello! Who was it that said you can’t fool all of the people all of the time? If the press is right it’s clear you can fool most of the people most of the time. How on earth can Labour hope to get re-elected after standing by helplessly and hopelessly doing nothing? Does anyone know what they have actually done? I can’t think of a single policy? No factory or job saved, no family kept in their home, nothing. Brown seems to appear quite a bit on the box at present saying, “We want to help families in trouble”. Nice words Gord, but any buffoon can say that, you have to actually DO something! Seeing the beautiful QE2 depart for the final time this week made me picture Brown in another time: on the deck of the Titanic. He’d be the bloke standing there enjoying the

band wearing only what must surely be Britain’s worst fake smile. Asked for a quote on the night’s problems, Mr B would express his sympathy for those unable to find space in the lifeboats or trapped below decks. He wouldn’t help people into lifejackets or boats; he’d just express his sympathy and hope it all worked out. Is this the sort of bloke we want running our country? Perhaps if he survived when pressed, he might offer the prospect of a ‘full enquiry’, but only if that nasty Mr Cameron really shouted at him at Prime Minister’s question time. Many years ago I overstretched myself. I slowly fell two or three months into arrears with my mortgage and interest rates had doubled my monthly house payments. I was 23, self employed running my own small business. Times were very tough and money was tight. Everywhere I looked businesses were either failing or ‘right-sizing’. I rapidly learned all I’ll ever need to know about cash-flow. If you’ve ever been in a similar position you will know exactly how it felt. I barely slept, thinking of little else but keeping a roof over the head of my very young family. Hard work, luck, the generosity of the ladies in my customers’ accounts departments and a sympathetic judge saved us. It seems mad to me that the law wouldn’t be on the side of people in similar circumstances now. Please Gordon, if you want to be remembered for something, act now and change the law. Make it as hard as possible for people to lose their homes. What most ‘hard-working families’ in trouble need now is just a little more time.

If you agree or disagree with David Holmes then write to: dholmes@iwgazette.co.uk

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Trees to light up Festival HUNDREDS of Islanders and visitors are expected to make their way to Brighstone and Mottistone for the 12th annual Christmas Tree Festival between December 4 and December 7.

of the tree by Graham Elderfield CEO of the Hospice, heralds the start of the Festival. Christmas Tree display viewing starts the next day and at 3.45pm TV celebrity Alan Titchmarsh, the Island’s High Sheriff will be lighting the A magnificent display “Peace Tree” at Brighof over 100 “theme stone Methodist Church. decorated” trees will be Events then continue all on show at four venues – weekend including a craft Brighstone Parish Church, fair, carol singing and the Methodist Church, Information Fair on DeWilberforce Hall and cember 5, and Brighstone Mottistone Church from School Fair in the Parish 10am to around 5pm. Church the following day. The special Isle of The trees will remain in Wight Hospice Service at Brighstone Church until Brighstone Church at 7pm after Christmas and the on Wednesday December celebrations will continue 3, including the lighting

with two concerts being performed on December 14 and 21, both in Brighstone Church. This festival has attracted many people over the years and whilst an admission fee is not charged all donations have enabled nearly £30,000 to be given to local and national charities.

Programme of Events

Wed, Dec 3 at 7pm: The lighting of “The IoW Hospice Tree” at Brighstone Church. Thurs, Dec 4 at 3.45pm: Carols and the lighting of Peace Tree. Fri, Dec 5 at 10am to 4pm: Christmas Gift &

Craft Fair in Brighstone Scout Centre 12 to 4pm: An “Information Fair” – Three Bishops Public House. 4pm: Carols with the Village Society in the Wilberforce Hall. Sat Dec 6 at 10am to 2pm: An “Information Fair” – Three Bishops Public House. 2pm to 4pm: Brighstone School Fair in the School. 2.30pm: Credorer Ensemble in Brighstone Church – Music and Carols for the Christmas Season. 3.30pm: Carols. Mince pies & mulled wine in Mottistone Church. Sun 7 Dec at 12.30pm: Christmas Lunches £8.50. Reservations required, call 741499 or 740752. Sun, Dec 7 at 2.30pm: Rhymes and Chimes of Christmas – Brighstone Church. Sunday Dec 14 at 7pm: Stars of Wonder Concert. A musical concert full of festive flavour and variety Sunday Dec 21 at 7pm: Mission to Seafarers Carol Concert. Collection in aid of Mission to Seafarers

Carisbrooke Castle captured A 45-MINUTE DVD capturing the 1,000-year history of Carisbrooke Castle has been made by an Island film company. It will be used as an educational tool in Island schools’ curriculum.

Godshill Primary School, Lake and Gatten Schools got involved by having a drawing competition of the Bayeux Tapestry. The children are seen in the film being presented with their prizes and also wearing costumes of the age. Local author, Diana Kimpton donated two signed books as prizes for the best pictures; other prizes include two signed

books by Michelle Magorian, the author of Goodnight Mister Tom, and two family tickets to the castle. The DVD was created with the help of local dancers from the Gillian Cartwright School of Dance in Shanklin, Newport Scout Group, Carisbrooke Girl Guides, South Wight Youth Theatre and The Wight Archers. Some of the figures from history that were shown included James I, Queen Victoria, Princess Beatrice, George III, Henry VIII, Peter De Heynoe. There is also footage of Princess Elizabeth’s tomb at Sts Thomas’s Minster, Newport.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

Photos by Darren Wray

Left to right: Louise Griffin Lodge Farm S

Left to right: Warren Turvey of Red Funnel, Paul Clark, James Brice and Nathan Clark

Ventnor Brewery’s Irwin Glenfield-Brown (left) and Steve Baker receive their award from Ritu Manocha of Wight Vodka

Left to right: Rodney Kearns of Medina Wines and Robert Thompson of the Hambrough, Ventnor

Left to right: Genevieve Sanders of Level Hair & Beauty; Steve Pang of China China with some members of his team

The sweet taste of success

More than 270 discerning foodies, including restaurant owners, food producers and a host of others making their living from Island food and drink, gathered in a spectacular marquee provided by Grays at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Havenstreet to celebrate another great year for Island gastronomy with the Island Life Food & Drink Awards 2008.

It was a glittering night, as befits one of the most prestigious awards ceremonies on the Island. Anyone who is anyone in Island catering and hospitality was there, and the fun continued deep into the small hours. Nineteen categories were available, ranging from the upmarket sophistication of the Island’s top restaurants to the more homely charms of tea rooms and coffee shops. One of the constant themes of the awards is Island produce, reflecting the nationwide trend towards sourcing locally produced ingredients as both a means of offering great tastes and supporting the local economy. New food and drink producers, such as Isle of Wight Cheese in Sandown with its renowned Gallybagger variety, continue to emerge on the Island, while long established names such as Hamiltons Fine Foods keep on delivering the goods to satisfied customers. Main sponsor

DINING PUB OF THE YEAR (Judged by the AA) Presented by Red Funnel Nominations: New Inn, Shalfleet / Pointer Inn, Newchurch / The Pump Bar, Seaview / White Hart, Havenstreet / White Horse, Whitwell Pub dining on the Island continues to improve, with menus becoming more adventurous and the overall quality more consistent.

WINNER: THE POINTER INN, NEWCHURCH

“We cannot believe that we have won this award for the second year running, last year by public vote, this year by AA recommendation, we are ecstatic.” (Paul Clark - Co-owner) RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR (Judged by the AA) Sponsored by Medina Wines Nominations: Morgans, Shanklin / Royal Hotel, Ventnor / Seaview Hotel, Seaview / The Hambrough, Ventnor / The St Helens, St Helens This year the Island has cemented its reputation as a centre of gastronomic excellence, with several eateries receiving coverage at a national level. Most of the top restaurants have now been well and truly discovered by ‘the London set’, while they have also found the consistency to attract the year-round trade from locals.

WINNER: THE HAMBROUGH, VENTNOR

“It’s so great to win this. I just try to keep it simple and rely on

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

quality ingredients. I’ve been at the Hambrough for four months now and I’ve had really good feedback.” – Robert Thompson, head chef, The Hambrough. RESTAURANT CHEF OF THE YEAR (Judged by the AA) Sponsored by Brickfields Nominations: Morgans, Tim Morgan / Pendletons, Steven James / Seaview Hotel, Graham Walker / The Royal Hotel, Alan Staley / The St Helens, Mark Young The top Island chefs have mastered the fine art of delivering consistently good food allied to excellent service and an ability to handle the all-important PR aspects of the job to help maintain their establishment’s profile in a highly competitive market.

WINNER: MARK YOUNG (THE ST HELENS)

“The fact that we have been working towards getting our second AA rosette may have helped us win this award. Basically, it comes down to the quality of the cooking.” – Mark Young PUB CHEF OF THE YEAR (Judged by the AA) Presented by Red Funnel Nominations: Crown Inn, Shorwell – Kieron Barton / New Inn, Shalfleet – Phil Galbraith / Pointer Inn, Newchurch – Paul Clarke / White Hart, Havenstreet – Berni Nigh / White Horse, Whitwell – Jerrie Mallon Island pub chefs are faced with the challenge of keeping their

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Nicola Murphy, Paul Murphy, n and Julian Scott of Briddlesford Shop

Andrew Turner MP and some of the Red Funnel team

Annie Horne of Liberty’s

Mark Young and Lian Beadell of the St Helen’s restaurant

restaurants busy on wet Wednesdays in February as well as during the peak times of summer Sundays.

WINNER: PHIL GILBRAITH (THE NEW INN, SHALFLEET)

“I was pleasantly surprised to win this award. It’s good timing as it’s our tenth anniversary this year.” – Phil Gilbraith NEWCOMER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by WS Group Nominations: Kevars, Ryde / Pendletons, Shanklin / Real Island Food Company, Whitwell A good mix of nominations in this category, with two eateries that have rapidly gained a devoted following in highly competitive locations and a company that is on a mission to bring the best of Island-produced food to the Island’s doorsteps.

WINNER: REAL ISLAND FOOD COMPANY

BAKERY OF THE YEAR Sponsored by The Old Smithy Nominations: Bembridge Bakery, Bembridge / Graces Bakery, Islandwide / Market Bakery, Scarrots Lane A new awards category this year celebrating the fact that Island baking continues to thrive, with bread and cakes galore offering a tempting alternative to mass-market brands.

WINNER: GRACES BAKERY

BUTCHER MEAT/PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Presented by Andrew Turner MP Nominations: BJs Sandown, Sandown / Hamilton Fine Foods, Islandwide / Paul Murphy, Briddlesford Lodge Farm

The major supermarkets may be well and truly established on the Island, but many Islanders still prefer to buy their meat from a traditional butcher.

Damon Calleja of Pendletons and Rachel Fidler of HTP Training

WINNER: PAUL MURPHY

against each other, with the top-end Chinese cuisine of China China, the authentic taste of Spain of the ultra-cosy El Toro Contento and the designer Indian experience of Monsoon all nominated.

BEST CAFÉ/BAR Sponsored by China China Nominations: Joe’s Café Bar, Ryde & Newport / Liberty’s Café Bar, Ryde / The Met Bar, Ventnor These days, you don’t have to hop on a ferry for a sophisticated night out – the owners of these bars have invested many thousands of pounds into their establishments, making them pleasurable places to be whether for a quick coffee or something stronger.

MOST DISTINCTIVE LOCAL MENU Sponsored by Red Funnel Nominations: Pendletons, Shanklin / The Seaview Hotel, Seaview / The St Helens, St Helens This award sums up all that is great about the new face of Island dining: smart restaurants serving food that is innovative and truly derived from their locality, rather than being delivered by lorry from some faraway place.

WINNER: LIBERTY’S

DRINKS PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Wight Vodka Nominations: Goddards, Ryde / Rosemary Vineyard, Ryde / Ventnor Brewery, Ventnor The Island has a strong tradition of brewing and winemaking, and it is immensely encouraging to see that many companies in this sector are still thriving.

WINNER: VENTNOR BREWERY

WINNER: CHINA CHINA

WINNER: THE SEAVIEW HOTEL

LIVESTOCK PRODUCER/FARMER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Medina Foods Nominations: Brownrigg Poultry, Godshill / New Barn Farm, Shorwell / Paul Griffin, Briddlesford Lodge Farm The whole chain of food quality on the Island begins, of course, with the livestock producers and farmers. These nominations serve as a useful reminder that the Island countryside is not just pretty to look at but is also a source of some of the finest flavours you will taste anywhere.

Ethnic Restaurant of the Year Sponsored by Level Hair & Beauty WINNER: NEW BARN Nominations: China China, Cowes / El Toro Contento, Ventnor / Monsoon Indian Restaurant, Ryde Another new category, this pitched cuisine from three continents Continued on page 20

FARM

Main sponsor

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

Left to right: Edward Minghella, John and Sonia Norris of Norris Stores and Gloria Minghella

Left to right: Andy and Claudia Hodgson, Andy Gustar of Hamiltons Fine Foods; Matt Wheeler and Rachel Foy of the Real Island Food Company

Continued from page 21 BEST LOCAL FOOD SHOP OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Vectis Insurance Nominations: Angela’s, Yarmouth / Norris Stores, Niton / Vics Stores, Nettlestone In the face of competition from the supermarkets, local food shops have to really go the extra mile if they are to survive. Friendly service and a commitment to quality produce are the hallmarks of all our nominees.

WINNER: NORRIS STORES, NITON Left to right: Max Burton of Isle of Wight Cheese , and Bill Tuffrey of WA Foods, Shanklin

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Sponsored by Marks & Spencer Nominations: Andy Gustar (Hamiltons) / Paul Clarke (Pointer Inn) / Phillipa Cooper (Seaview Hotel) It is one thing to do your job well for a couple of seasons, quite another to be at the top of your game for year after year. All our nominees in this category have proved themselves and then some.

WINNER: ANDY GUSTAR

BEST ORGANIC PRODUCT/TRADER Sponsored by Farringford Hotel Nominations: Godshill Organics, Godshill / Stoneground Flour Company, Havenstreet ‘Organic’ is still a buzzword for many Island foodies. Both our nominees demonstrate a real commitment to organic principles, and have as a result gained a loyal following.

WINNER: STONEGROUND FLOUR COMPANY

BEST FARM SHOP Sponsored by Liberty’s Café Bar Nominations: Briddlesford Lodge Farm Shop, Wootton / Farmer Jacks, Arreton / Garlic Farm, Newchurch Farm shops offer a genuinely pleasant shopping experience, staffed as they invariably are by people who know and care deeply about their products. The Island is blessed with more than its fair share of such outlets.

WINNER: BRIDDLESFORD LODGE FARM SHOP

BEST FOOD PRODUCER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by WA Foods Nominations: Garlic Farm, Newchurch / Hamiltons Fine Foods, Islandwide / Isle of Wight Cheese Co, Sandown Two of the three nominations in this category are well established names on the Island – the Garlic Farm has had extensive media coverage while Hamiltons Fine Foods’ products crop up everywhere – while the third, Isle of Wight Cheese, is a relative newcomer but has already garnered a couple of highprofile awards.

WINNER: ISLE OF WIGHT CHEESE CO

HOSPITALITY & CATERING APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR (JUDGED) Sponsored by HTP Training Nominations: Damon Calleja, Pendletons / Katie Harris, Seaview Hotel / Richard Wilson, The Pointer Inn The future of hospitality and catering on the

Island depends on the quality of those entering the industry. All three nominees have clearly demonstrated that they have bright careers ahead of them.

WINNER: DAMON CALLEJA

BEST TEA ROOMS/COFFEE SHOP (JUDGED) Sponsored by Medina Foods Nominations: Rhylstone Gardens, Shanklin / The Old Smithy, Godshill / The Old Thatch, Shanklin The fact that there are so many coffee shops and tea rooms on the Island means that it is very difficult for any establishment to stand out. These three nominees have managed to go the extra mile.

WINNER: THE OLD THATCH

Main sponsor Island Life magazine would like to thank Red Funnel, the main sponsor of the awards. Thanks also to the event sponsors: Hamiltons Fine Food; Carisbrooke Cuisine; Minghella Ice Cream; Phillips Fine Foods, Grays Marquees; All About Catering; Tony Martin; Medina Wines; Eurovines; Wight Vodka; Busy Bee; Nic/ Brakes; Luxury Event Toilets, JMC Generator Hire; Diamond Island Sculptured Glass; Peter Tautz; IW Steam Railway.

Ray and Carole Redrup of Grace’s Bakery with Jane Cross of the Old Smithy (right)

Left to right: Warren Turvey, Phil Gilbraith of the New Inn, Shalfleet, and Murray Carter of Red Funnel

Ludovic Pech, Austin Gould, and Graham Walker of The Seaview Hotel with Murray Carter of Red Funnel.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Left to right: Martin Beisley of the Farringford Hotel, Sharon Wheeler, Matt Bowman and Anne Kennerley from Stoneground Flour Co.

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news Photo: Larry Ellis Photography

Charlotte’s new post FORMER Cowes High School pupil Charlotte Beeby, has been named the new deputy harbour master at Yarmouth, following the retirement of Bryn Bird.

she ran a water taxi in Cowes for two years. Chris Lisher, chief executive/harbour master said: “Charlotte is a complete contrast to her predecessor Bryn Bird who retired in August. She is young Charlotte, 21, was previ- and inexperienced, but ously a temporary berthgood with customers, ing master at Yarmouth enthusiastic and willing Harbour and prior to that to learn.

“She was the best candidate for the position. We wish her every success in this role. She is now the face of the harbour to all yachtsmen and boaters.” In her spare time Charlotte is a member of the Isle of Wight Youth Concert Band and plays the clarinet, flute and saxophone.

Charlotte, who has been living on the Island since 1992, said: ”I am doing a job that I really enjoy whilst gaining invaluable experience. I know that I have a great challenge ahead of me and I am grateful to the harbour commissioners for giving me this opportunity to further my career.”

Council website double THE Isle of Wight Council’s website, www.iwight.com, has won the Best Public Sector Website category at the Hantsweb Awards for the second year running.

In October this year alone, almost 4,500,000 pages were viewed by visitors to the site. Customers can use www. iwight.com to access a range of services run by

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the council. This includes online payment of council tax, latest roadworks, information about forthcoming meetings and planning applications. Judges described www. iwight.com as being “a very strong site that is well structured, consistently presented, and a good mix of reference and proactive content. ‘Findability’ is helped by a good search engine and logical information. The site is

informative and easy to navigate and we also liked the ‘A to Z’ approach to find particular services. It is topical and has some ‘fun’ things for everyone.” Barry Abraham, Isle of Wight Council Cabinet member for Residents and Resources, said: “The Internet is a very powerful tool in today’s world and an easy to use and informative website is a key part of any major organization.

“The council is dedicated to improving services to customers in all its areas. Winning this prestigious award two years in a row shows we are continuing to improve access to information and services for residents and customers. I congratulate the council’s ICT team for making www.iwight.com the success it is.” The Hantsweb Awards have been running since 2002, and are run by Hampshire County Council to celebrate excellence in website design, accessibility and service. The awards are open to any website based in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Nominations for the awards are assessed by judges with expertise and experience in their chosen field. Overall they look for accessibility, good practice, ease of use, relevance and design.

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Toby’s gardening tips

Toby Beasley, head gardener at Osborne House, provides his regular update of work on the estate, and gives Gazette readers tips on how to keep their gardens in trim.

Toby writes: Raking and collecting up leaves can be a tiresome chore, as we are discovering at the moment. But it can prove very beneficial long term. After picking

the job – and the bags have a few holes in them for ventilation. Again, the leaves should be turned after a year and in two years’ time you should have very good quality leaf mould. Many of you have noticed that the days of lawnmowing just between March and October have long gone. The mild climate here means we cut virtually all year round. At the moment we still are cutting grass on the estate about once every three weeks, and your lawns probably need the same treatment. Always try to pick a dry day, and try to cut the grass in the afternoon up the leaves it is best the leaves should be not to put them on the turned after a year to give when the dew has gone. But beware if the ground compost heap, but stock- them plenty of air. A mixture of oak leaves is too wet and soft, espepile them on their own. cially if you are using a and pine needles proThis ensures that leaf mould does not affect the duces a more acidic leaf sit-on mower. Lawnmowers are also mould which is particucompost. a good way of picking larly good for rhododenAlthough the leaves up leaves while cutting drons and camellias. need two years to the grass, one of the Even if someone has a thoroughly break down, advantages being that the small garden leaves can eventually the leaf mould is much finer than still be very useful. Once leaves tend to get more shredded, which helps the ordinary compost, and is collected they can be ideal for potting plants, stored in black bin bags, breaking-down process. top-dressing borders and but make sure the leaves The leaves and grass cutting will blend well are moist before storage mulching. During the together for compost. – a quick watering does breaking-down process,

Doors open at Chale

THE improved and enlarged Chale Green Stores (above), complete with café, deli and garden, has been officially opened by the Island’s High Sheriff, Alan Titchmarsh. Mr Titchmarsh cut the ribbon with his wife Alison cutting a celebration cake. A plaque was put on display to mark the occasion. The shop is owned by Vern and Jenny Tyerman and will be open seven days a week. The café area seats over 40 people.

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette food & drink

Wine & Dine

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette food & drink

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news

Your local businesses Ray’s return to baking basics THE smiles are a little broader this week at Grace’s Bakery, and their customers are welcomed even more warmly. This Island-based family firm, which has outlets in Ryde, Newport and Shanklin, was awarded Bakery of the Year award at Island Life Magazine’s prestigious Food & Drink Awards (see page 16).

like the South African equivalent of Tesco,” says Ray. They were both aged 23, and an Island family – his grandfather and uncles worked on the looking back are amazed how railway here, and his father left they coped. Carole quickly the Island to become a fireman found herself work as a bookkeeper – which she still does in Essex, where Ray grew up now at Grace’s. But then she and met his wife Carole. Ray has been in the baking industry got homesick and persuaded all his working life, ever since Ray that they should return to Essex. qualifying from college. His It’s hard to equate something journey to being a lauded on such a huge scale with the artisan baker – with three artisan bakery he now owns, “I want to thank my cusshops with cafes – has been but in a looking-glass way, tomers so much,” says Ray anything but conventional. Grace’s owes quite a bit to that Redrup, master baker and When he and his wife Carole experience of the big business owner of Grace’s. “The award were young parents they means so much because it was became disillusioned with the side of food retail. It taught him the tricks of the trade my customers who’ve not only state of the country. So when – and that he doesn’t want supported us over 11 years, but Ray was offered a manageanything to do with them. they took the trouble to vote.” ment position for a company “It’s a question of honesty. Knowing he’s got it right called Pick and Pay, they emiIf you’re an honest person it’s means a lot to Ray. He’s from grated to South Africa. “It’s upsetting to discover the ways they try to get that bit extra from the customer. Things like putting bananas, say, on offer, but adding the bit taken off onto the other fruit. “It gives the illusion that the customers are getting value for money, but if you look at the local High Street shops, you get better quality for the same price, maybe even cheaper. TV chefs like Jamie Oliver are right when they talk about what goes into our food today. For example, the way hot cross buns are made a year in advance and blast frozen ready for the supermarkets, to be sold off at cut down prices. The Grace’s Bakery team and their tempting array “Bread and rolls made in Eastern Europe and then of prize-winning bread and cakes By Roz Whistance

shipped to the UK can be sold off as fresh baked bread, and dougnuts modified to still be fresh after four days.” Ray was headhunted to work for a huge bread factory, and learnt a few more truths he still finds pretty unpalatable. When the couple returned to the UK, Ray began his own bakery, which he built up over eight years until he had 12 shops, supplying some of the large national businesses. Ironically it was the big contracts that led to problems: “I was making a nice profit, but sadly it was in their bank account, not mine.” A lack of cash flow led to disaster. “Having to lay off 120 staff was the worst day of my life,” says Ray. “I knew a lot of their families, too.” It was his parents who suggested he returned to the Island and start again. Ray thought at first there wasn’t room for another bakery, but used to get the early ferry sometimes, sit in Ryde High St with his sandwiches and watch what was going on. “I realised there was a gap in the market, and we took on the shop in Ryde.” One thing they didn’t consider was taking on any staff. Ray baked, and Carole and her mother served. “But mum was retired really, and when I had to collect the twins – Sarah and Jodie, who now work in the shop on Saturdays – from the nursery, she was on her own.”

Ray and Carole with their Bakery of the Year award They weren’t in any way prepared for demand straight away. “The minute we opened the doors there were queues!” Ray was working practically round the clock, and often slept in a camp bed in the office. After a few false starts they took on some good loyal staff, and after university their sons Daniel and David joined the firm. “Daniel was only doing it to fill his gap year,” laughs Carole. “Now, eight years later he’s still here and deeply committed!” “He’s even more passionate about Grace’s than me,” says

Ray. “My brothers, Derek and Mark, also joined the team, which has allowed us to expand into Newport and Shanklin.” “We can’t thank our staff enough. They have helped make Grace’s what it is today.” adds Carole. Ray won over the customers from the first with his insistence on giving a good honest service and making fresh bread and cakes using untreated flour, the way it should be. That attention to detail is precisely why Grace’s customers think they are the Island’s bakery of the year.

Second AA rosette for St Helens eaterie MARK Young, owner and head chef of the St Helens Restaurant, is celebrating with his team after they were awarded their second AA rosette.

The award caps an amazing month for Mark during which he also won the Restaurant Chef of the Year category at the prestigious Island Life awards (see page 18) and saw his 12-year-old son Jack win the Island Young Rotary Chef of the year in an Island schools cook-off. The St Helens is currently

the only independent standalone restaurant on the Island to attain the two-rosette standard. The AA awards two rosettes to establishments that are “the best local restaurants, offering higher standards and better consistency. Greater precision is apparent in the cooking, and there is obvious attention to the quality and selection of ingredients”. Mark said: “Since the restaurant opened in 2005, we have stuck to our principles of sourcing the best Island

produce available for our menus and providing excellent service in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Therefore to be recognised with this award is a massive achievement. We were awarded our first AA rosette in July 2007 and the entire St Helens teams have worked extremely hard to increase the standards to what is required at this level. We will definitely be celebrating for some time.” The award joins an already bursting cabinet at the St

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Helens that has received recognition from many sectors of the catering industry. It won The Isle of Wight Healthy Eating Alliance Award for business hospitality in 2007, The Wight Good Food Guide award for ‘Top of the Bill in 2007/2008’ and ‘Best Bistro Style Restaurant 2007/2008’, in addition to three awards at the inaugural Island Life Food and Drink Awards in 2007, ‘Best Restaurant’, Most Distinctive Local Menu’, and ‘Achievement Award for 2007’.

Mark receives his coveted Restaurant Chef of the Year award from Phil Legge and Mary O’Brien of Brickfields at the prestigious Island Life Food and Drink Awards

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news Barnardo’s seeks helpers in Ryde

BARNARDO’S Ryde Extended Services is looking for volunteers to help with a wide range of activities.

Ryde Extended Services works alongside extended schools in Ryde to help families in the local community. The service needs volunteers to help with a variety of activities including cookery, gardening, family learning, self-esteem groups, family days and holiday schemes. All volunteers will be fully supported with training and expenses provided. If you would like to offer your support, contact Fiona Roberts on 01983 616607, or email fiona.roberts@ barnardos.org.uk. Advert

Cutting music costs BUSINESSES facing hefty music licence fees are being urged to contact the Island’s Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Industry for advice, writes Kevin Wilson. National research shows that many organisations, including charities, are being asked to pay high licence fees for playing music of any kind, even if they just have a radio on in the premises that could be heard by colleagues or customers. However, lower cost alternatives are available for premises where music is incidental – such as shops, factories and kitchens. The Chamber is keen to help businesses make sure that they stay within the law, while not paying fees unnecessarily.

Chamber chief executive Kevin Smith said: “We endorse the Performing Rights Society in pursuing licence fees where music is clearly an essential and dominant feature. “But we are hearing of some fairly drastic treatment around the country, including a café that only plays talk radio stations, and a factory threatened with court action if employees played music on their personal radios that their colleagues could overhear.” The Chamber wants the law clarified so businesses know where they stand. In the meantime, support is being offered to local businesses who are not sure what to do. Mr Smith said: “There are alternative sources of music which do not require a licence,

so I would urge businesses to get in touch with us.” Local businessman Keith Ballingall, of Island Dreams, has found his own solution to the problem. He has signed up to receive instrumental music for his showroom via satellite link, and is now asking the Performing Rights Society for a refund of his licence fee. Mr Ballingall said: “Customers don’t come into my store for the music I am playing. I only want to play music so my showroom is not silent. I could see the logic if I derived an income from playing music, but enough is enough.”

Affordable housing

SPECTRUM Housing Group, on behalf of Western Challenge Housing Association, has played a long and important role in the local housing market, building affordable quality homes across the majority of the South West region and on the Isle of Wight.

a property and keeping the initial outgoings to an affordable level. With shared ownership, you buy a share of your own home and the Association will own the remaining share of the property. You pay a low monthly rent to the Association on the share that you do not buy. But this does not mean you share your home with someone The Association’s ‘get move-in’ else. shared ownership scheme offers One current development where an alternative to renting and full you are able to purchase a brand ownership. It is particularly suitnew home for as little as £34,500 able for people with a regular (30% part-buy, part-rent share) income who want to buy their own plus low monthly rent and service home but cannot afford to do so. is Hawthorn Meadows. Shared Ownership enables the Spectrum Housing Group have buyer to bridge the gap between proudly released a number of the mortgage they can afford to brand new homes at Hawthorn raise and the cost of the property, Meadows. enabling them to buy a share of Hawthorn Meadows is a beauti-

ful new development with 26 affordable homes located in Whippingham, on a large private site that will consist of in excess of 500 homes. These homes of varying styles and number of bedroom options, are being offered to local people living or working on the Island. The properties on this development will be finished to a high standard with finish, fixtures and fittings of an excellent quality, as well as a high energy efficiency rating. To register your interest in these properties or just to find out more about other future developments on the Island, contact the Home Ownership team now on 0800 316 3316 or visit our website www.getmovein.com.

Island Mortgage Solutions For Remortgages

01983 533777

admin@islandmortgagesolutions.co.uk

Have you got news for us? newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette feature

Look out for our FANTASTIC Gazette Guide to Christmas in our forthcoming issues! If you would like to advertise call us now on 402599 Make sure your business has a great Christmas with the Gazette!

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette feature

WE don’t want to panic you but… Christmas is only a month away! It’s time to start applying some serious thought to what on earth you can buy for your nearest and dearest. And if you want to avoid falling into the ill-judged Christmas jumper or inappropriate smellies trap, why not consider something a little out of the ordinary? If you know someone who likes a good read, get yourself down to one of the Mother Goose bookshops. There’s one in St Helens and one in Yarmouth, and both of them offer a huge range of reading matter, from recent novels to obscure curios – many of the them Island-related – that you would never find on Amazon. The proprietors even promise free dust every day and extra insults on Saturdays! If the one you love is getting stressed out by the thought of Christmas, you could always treat them to an Indian Head Massage or some Thought Field Therapy courtesy of Creedence Training. For the younger ones, or just the young at heart, take a trip to the Lilliput Antique Doll and Toy Museum in Brading, where you will find exquisite china dolls and a range of other gifts evocative of times past. And for the gift that keeps on giving way beyond Christmas, you could always splash out on a 12month forecast from Star Shine, who specialize in Angel Card readings. Just supply them with the appropriate personal details and they’ll do their mysterious thing for you. Happy shopping!

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette weddings Want your advert to reach thousands Islandwide?

Call us now on 402599

wedding To see your wedding in The Gazette call 01983 402599

Redrup & Burden THERE was something very special about David Redrup’s and Kate Burden’s wedding cake.

Their five-tier cake was made and decorated by the groom, his brother, and his father Ray Redrup. The top tier was decorated with an edible picture of the bride and groom taken immediately after the service, made possible by the groom’s father and brother running around ‘like mad things’. The couple were married at Holy Trinity Church in Bembridge. The bride is a postgraduate student from the university of Southampton, and is the daughter of the Michele Burden and the late Mark Burden. Her bridesmaids were Jennifer Lodge, Holly Bowman, Sarah Redrup and Jodie Redrup. The groom, a Confectionery Manager at Grace’s Bakery, had Peter Stuart as his best man. The couple held their reception at Landguard Manor in Shanklin, and were entertained by the IW Symphony Orchestra and a surprise firework display. They went on to enjoy a honeymoon in Italy. Photographs by Chiquephotography.co.uk

WIN!

36 pints of Ventnor Golden Bitter

The Broadway Inn and Ventnor Brewery have teamed up to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a 36 pint ‘cubey’ of Ventnor Golden bitter worth over £100. Question: What item of clothing does the fox wear on the Broadway Inn advert? (hint: it’s on page 14). Broadway Inn Competition, Unit b18 Spithead Business Centre, Newport Road, Sandown, PO36 9PH. Question: What item of clothing does the fox wear on the Broadway Inn advert? Answer: Name: Address:

Tel no: The prize to a maximum value of £100 will be awarded to the first correct entry opened after Monday December 1, 2008. Terms & conditions apply. Employees and their immediate families of The Broadway Inn, Ventnor Brewery and The Gazette are not allowed to enter. The editor’s decision is final. No correspondence will be entered into.

To feature your wedding please call us on 01983 402599

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette news

Operating out of Ventnor LOOKING out across the audience from the wings of the Ventnor Winter Gardens, it is clear that the Operators have tapped into what makes the current crop of Indie bands so appealing to today’s youth.

Saturday before. “That was amazing,” said Ben. “That was really, really special. It made me feel like a real rock star.” “It was great,” agrees Owen. “We had a message the other day from a girl in San Francisco saying she was belting out our tunes on her radio station. Just There’s a trait that both Goodbye to think our music is being listened to Stereo’s Sam Woodford and Operators’ and enjoyed so far away. It’s mental.” Owen Taylor share: they both seem to be And what has the future got in store able to instinctively command the crowd for the band? to states of near fanaticism. It’s not to say “I’d love to have an awesome festival that Claydon or last year’s Live Wired season next year,” muses Ben. “Maybe winners Kosmik Debris failed to connect some cool second stage. I’d definitely with the audience, but it’s clear that the be disappointed if we don’t have an two former bands have really mastered album out next year. their onstage performances. “I’d love to have a big, mainstream Before their set, I caught up with Ben Operators album out, so that when we Athey (drums) and Owen Taylor (vocals) go to our gigs, we’ll have fresh faces for a few words. I asked how it felt to and people we don’t know coming have fans come down from the mainland down. That’s my ambition.” said Owen. for the HMV in-store performance the

Hugo Frusslinky to tour

IT’S official, Hugo Frusslinky want to tour. Formed in 2007, and fronted by the feisty Heather McCallum, their brand of indie funk-punk has already gained them well-received slots at both the Bestival and the Isle of Wight Festival. “Well I have driven our

new van and it’s a beast. I’m going to sort it out for touring over the coming months,” says guitarist Jono_not_Bono. With the recent departure of bassist Rob Light and arrival of the highly talented Dave Waight (of Finger Monster fame), things do not seem to be slowing down for Hugo.

They have that ‘fun’ energy of a band that are doing their own thing instead of just taking the easy route to success. And when Jono says: “We’re not a band that follows the normal trends, nor will we ever,” I believe him. So keep your ears open, I think they’re on to something.

Bleepfest: From Portsmouth to Paris PRIOR to playing their headline set at the French festival of electro, Bleepfest’s Tony Auton spots a Parisian tramp. “He has no shoes but three bottles of champagne in his bag.”

It’s a big step for the Portsmouth based band, who you might remember played the Fawcett Inn only recently, to a crowd of grassroots fans numbering around 60. With a gig in Texas, USA currently being planned and a new album about to be released, things are looking busy for the band. Their second album, titled ‘Who Do You Think You Are Kidding’, is being released on ZIP Records on January 1, 2009. If you’re a little curious to hear it though, you can pick

up a preview copy at their Railway Rifle Club, Portsmouth show on the November 21. I can tell you it’s a deeper, darker album then their debut. The lyrics, as usual, are intelligent and dispel the myth that punk songs take no skill to write. It is true, some extra synth layers have been added to the tracks on this album, especially on the ballads, but they can still be performed live with flair and energy. Sometimes the album feels like it slows down a little too much compared to Short Term Manifesto, but in my opinion this is only a small flaw on a very strong album. But then, it’s not an album recorded to sell to the masses. The last word goes to Tony: “We’ll remain ignored, but at least it’s us.”

Got a gig? Get it in E-mail Richard: gazettead@mac.com

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

gazette news Island Mortgage Solutions For Life Assurance

01983 533777

admin@islandmortgagesolutions.co.uk

Marching for Pudsey MEMBERS of Medina Marching Band raised funds for Children in Need by holding a fun fancy dress evening.

‘When one of our band members came up with the idea to raise money, I agreed straight away. “Our younger band members are very Regular band practice was invaded by familiar with Pudsey Bear whilst our Children in Need and Pudsey mania, as older members recognise the importance Medina Marching Band arrived in fancy of the work carried out by the charity. We raised over £80 on the night and dress and raised more than £80 on the expect a total in excess of £100.” night, with further pledges to come in. For more information on Medina There were jokers, pirates, cowboys, Marching Band call Kevin Hayward cowgirls, wicked witches, St Trinian’s (chairman) 07810 858112, Jan Cooper and spiderman. (secretary) 07912 342640 or Andrew Kevin Hayward, chairman, said: Smith (author) 07929 180425.

Lacuna Coil play intimate show THERE’S a panda in the line. A panda! I most certainly did not expect to see a fan dressed in a full panda suit queueing to get into a sold out Lacuna Coil gig. But stranger things have happened, and I think it’s a good measure of the dedication shown by the majority of the 400 fans who turned out to see the Italian Goth Metal group play.

By Richard Heaven After a short break, Lacuna Coil take to the stage, with the biggest cheer reserved for the entrance of singers Cristina Scabbia and Andrea Ferro. They blast through a set not dissimilar to the one seen on the newly released Visual Karma DVD, including crowd pleasers Closer, Our Truth, Enjoy the Silence

and Heaven’s A Lie. The band exchange banter with the crowd and reach out to their most loyal fans in the front row. As the evening progresses, it becomes clear that they really are enjoying the intimate feel of the venue. Then again, where else would you see 400 people chanting ‘ Panda! Panda!’ as the disembodied head is paraded through the crowd?

What makes the show special is, for those who don’t know, Lacuna Coil are currently supporting ‘Bullet for my valentine’ on their sold out UK tour, playing to a minimum of 3000 people every night. Of course, tonight they are headlining and have invited local metal group Apnia to open for them. Granted, the fact that they have a dwarf as a drummer could be considered a gimmick, but as soon as the band roll into action it’s quickly forgotten as they clearly have the material to play with the big guns.

Master lute player visits Island QUAY Arts is to play host to Elizabeth Kenny, one of Europe’s leading lute players in the Anthony Minghella Theatre on Wednesday November 26 at 8pm.

Elizabeth gives the audience an exclusive foretaste of her forthcoming solo disc, Flying Horse, named after one of the tunes in the early seventeenth century “ML Lute Book”. The ML

anthology was arranged by John Sturt, a prominent London professional musician whose career peaked between about 1610 and 1625, he added layers of virtuoso ornamentation, which hardly anyone tries to play today! She has recorded a series of highly acclaimed lute song discs for Hyperion, with countertenor Robin Blaze and tenor Mark Padmore, exploring

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

new improvisatory approaches to early English repertoire. Liz is also a lute professor at the Royal Academy of Music, London, and Head of Early Music at Southampton University. Tickets are available by calling the box office on 01983 822490. All proceeds go to the Steve Ross Foundation for the Arts, the registered charity that operates Quay Arts.

Jazz at Quay EDANA Minghella, jazz vocalist sister of the late film director Anthony Minghella, is to return to Quay Arts in Newport on December 5, following her successful debut there in February 2007.

Since her first concert at Quay Arts, Edana has performed at a range of venues both at home and abroad, including dates in Italy and a spot at the Isle of Wight Jazz Festival. Her backing band for what is billed as a night of jazz, Latin and lounge music will

include saxophone player Sarah Bolter, who performed with Edana at the Anthony Minghella tribute concert in Cowes earlier this year, as well as Steve Thompson on bass, Andy Strickland on guitar and Mick Smith, Quay Arts director, on piano. Expect songs of desire and defiance, delivered in Edana’s trademark soulful style. The concert, which will be recorded, will raise money for the Steve Ross Foundation for the Arts, the charity which operates Quay Arts.

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

the gazette

gazette sport

Greening fires Brading Logo winner Vicky’s date BRADING Town and Newport earned important away victories in the Sydenhams Wessex Premier Division. Dave Greening’s fine solo effort ten minutes into the second half against Horndean, was enough to gain all three points for the Romans. Newport were 2-1 winners against Moneyfields, with Iain Sea-

brook getting both goals for the visitors. Cowes Sports were 4-0 down at Alton, before fighting back with goals from Wayne Newnham, James Butt and GC Giancovich making it 4-3. But the Yachtsmen ran out of time to complete their comeback, giving Alton the victory.

with Olympic legend

Multi-games area for Pan residents

Design student Vicky Law receives her window-view tour of the London Olympics site from Lord Coe and David Ball, chairman of the Island Games 2011 committee

A STUDENT from Newport who won a competition to design the Isle of Wight’s 2011 Island Games logo has travelled to London to meet Lord Coe, chairman of LOCOG, the London 2012 organising committee.

A BRAND new multi-use games area (MUGA) has been opened in Newport thanks to the work of the Pan Neighbourhood Partnership, the Isle of Wight Council and members of the Pan community.

to the local community. The variety of sports that can be played on the new pitch means there is something for everyone and I am sure it will be a great place for young people to make friends as well as improve their sporting skills.” Two young Pan residents joined the It is hoped that the new sports facility Isle of Wight Council commissioner will provide a focal point for the comfor positive activities for young people, munity and offer young people living Simon Dear, to conduct the official in Pan a place to take part in a variety opening of the MUGA in the presence of sports including hockey, basketball, of local councillors, members of the netball and hockey. council’s sports unit and Pan NeighThe MUGA is floodlit until 9pm on bourhood Partnership and members of weeknights and Saturdays and 6pm on the community involved in the scheme. Sundays and bank holidays, ensuring The Pan MUGA is the only openthe site can be used during the evenings access MUGA on the Island, with no throughout the winter months. booking or payment required for use, Cllr Dawn Cousins, Isle of Wight enabling local people to use the facilCouncil cabinet member for health, ity at any time. The site is managed housing and community wellbeing, said: and maintained by Downside Middle “Pan lacks many play facilities and the School, which has priority use of the new MUGA is somewhere for young pitch within school hours during term people to take part in healthy, constructime. tive activities. It is extremely beneficial

in the new year. Along with an MP3 player, part of Vicky’s prize was a visit to London with Island Games chairman David Ball and Lee Matthews from the IW Council’s sports unit. Vicky received a VIP tour of the newly built Olympic facilities and was shown plans for London 2012. Vicky Law’s design concept was Vicky, 20, who is currently selected from over 50 entries by a studying at Winchester School of panel of judges. It has since been Art said: “Lord Coe gave me a developed by the Isle of Wight window-view tour of the Olympic Council’s graphics team into a final site from his office. It was fascinatdesign which will be seen by thou- ing to see the beginnings of the sands of people around the world. stadium, with its great iron spokes The logo will be officially launched sticking into the air. There was

Ryde rowers bring home silverware RYDE Rowing Club celebrated its successful coastal season at the Hants & Dorset Amateur Rowing Association presentation evening in Southampton.

The club received trophies for the men’s coastal junior fours and men’s senior coxless pairs as well as individual medals for the junior crew of Callum Lowe, Tim Wiggins, Francais Moore, Tom Clark and Cox Bryony Reeve and the senior pair crew of Ben Ade and Ian Hayden. The presentations were made by the Association’s executive officers, including Ryde’s John Adams, who is president of the Association this year, and Steve Bull, the secretary.

Oakfield pupils get their ice skates on A SCHEME to attract children to the sport of ice hockey is proving successful in Ryde.

Island ice hockey player Toby Cooley has been visiting the school to talk to pupils about the sport, and those showing an Pupils from Oakfield School in Ryde have been interest have been invited getting their skates on and to the rink to learn the basics. learning about the sport The Wightlink Raiders thanks to a scheme pioare keen to inspire young neered by the Wightlink people to get involved in Raiders, the ice hockey the sport from an early team based at Ryde Ice age so that local talent can Arena.

be nurtured and developed. Currently many of the Wightlink Raiders come from the mainland and it is hoped more Islanders will get involved thanks to this scheme. Geoff Underwood, Director of Wightlink Raiders said: “Wightlink Raiders play in one of the top leagues in the UK, and the most successful

also a great big hole in the ground where the swimming pool will go!” The trip also provided an opportunity for the 2011 Island Games team to develop links with the 2012 management team and highlight the progress made to date. Vicky’s design, featuring a green diamond with distinctive red flames, will be featured on competitor clothing, the official website, publicity material as well as Island games merchandise. “I can’t wait to see my logo play such a prominent part in the Games, it will make my year!” added Vicky.

teams all have a strong local development programme. By supporting our youngsters today, they have the opportunity of becoming some of the top ice hockey players in the country.” Players are currently volunteering their time to run the scheme, which promotes fitness, dedication and teamwork, with

ice time costs being sponsored by Wightlink Ferries. The work with Oakfield School is a pilot scheme, with a view to it being rolled out to all schools in the future through the National Healthy Schools Programme which is overseen by the council’s Children’s Services Department.

Ryde R. C. Men’s Coastal Junior Crew with H&D ARA President. L to R - Francais Moore, Callum Lowe, John Adams (H&D ARA President), Bryony Reeve (Cox), Tim Wiggins, Tom Clark.

Talking sport ISLANDERS involved with sport at grassroots level turned out in force for the Community Sports Club Conference hosted by the Isle of Wight Council. The conference, attended by around 80 people representing more than 15 different sports, was designed to provide Islanders involved in sport with updates on the latest funding opportunities, changes in legislation, along with an opportunity to network with other clubs to share experiences and ideas. Useful information for Island sports clubs can be found at www.iwight.com/sportsunit

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

sport 32

the gazette

Friday NOVEMBER 21 2008

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

the gazette New venue proves knockout for Ventnor boxing squad By Jamie White A BOXING boom is taking place in Ventnor, inspired by the impres- formed into a gym, thanks sive displays of heavy- to the hard work of coach Darren Green and his asweight Danny Harper.

can go from strength to strength.” Ventnor is one of four boxing clubs on the Island, the others being at East Cowes, Ryde and sistants. Now three times Danny, 23, recently travNewport. Danny Harper a week boxers of all ages elled to Portsmouth Guildwas a member at Newport – including several girls hall to take on Titchfield’s for five years before Matt Draper, and scored a – are enjoying their new following coach Darren surroundings. points victory in the three, Green to Ventnor. Assistant coach Steve two-minute-round bout. It Danny said: “When Conroy said: “The club was his fourth win in five Darren told me he was started about eight months contests. starting a club in Ventnor ago when Darren, who Now a host of young I wanted to come along was coaching at Newport hopefuls are eager and join him. Now with decided he would like to to follow in Danny’s the new facilities availstart one here. footsteps, and have been able I am just keeping up “We looked around for given a major boost now my training so when the premises, and were evenVentnor Amateur Boxing tually offered space at the next bout comes along I’ll Club has found new Winter Gardens. Although be ready.” premises for training. Darren said: “We have we could not erect the The former Methodist several promising youngring or the punchbags Danny Harper (left) with his trainer Darren Green Church has been transsters coming through. there, if it hadn’t been for them the whole thing Danny is a good lad, who would not have got it off inspires some of the little ones. Most of the people the ground. who come here are from “We muddled along Ventnor, but one or two until this Ventnor Methtravel from other parts of odist Church hall came the Island to join us. Now up. When we knew it we have a permanent might be available, we base, hopefully this is made enquiries, and just the start, and we can waited for an answer for further expand. several months. Now Inevitably, finance is a thankfully the contracts problem. Darren added: have been signed and we “We are looking for any are on our way.” Steve added: “There has form of sponsorship been a fantastic response. because it costs us a lot of money to take a boxer We got around 30 at the over to the mainland to Winter Gardens in two fight.” sessions, but now we *If anyone wants to help are able to do three, on Ventnor ABC financially, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, and can split or wants to join the club it between the youngsters they should contact Darren Green on 07855and the more experiYoungsters practice their boxing skills in the Ventnor Methodist Church hall enced boxers. We feel we 444519.

Lower-level action for Island speedway fans

ISLAND speedway fans learned this week that they will have to make do with watching only the country’s third tier of the sport at Smallbrook Stadium from now on. But Wightlink Islanders copromoter Dave Pavitt is upbeat at the prospect of National League meetings, even though the standard is expected to be way below the previous levels enjoyed here.

pions Weymouth Wildcats and Conference knockout champions, Plymouth While the Premier League and Elite League Devils.  However, in an official British Speedway clubs will attract the top Promoters’ Association riders, the Islanders will be among outfits expected statement Pavitt insisted: “This is great news for to nurture young talent. British speedway. I have In the past the Islanders have been featured live on been chasing this dream for the last few seasons Sky Sports, but it seems and it has finally been inevitable that that vital delivered. “Fans will see revenue will now disapa good value league that pear. will produce some of the  The Islanders will be world’s top speedway in a League of 10 teams stars.  that is also set to include Conference League cham- “It will be run in a more By Richard Collins

professional manner than has ever been seen in the third tier of British speedway before, and I look forward to being

Send your news to newsdesk@iwgazette.co.uk or tel. (01983) 402599

able to confirm the teams that will be competing in 2009 and publishing more detailed rules and regulations in January.”

Age no barrier for mighty Martin RETIRED Island man Martin Godden has been crowned the British Drug Free Powerlifter in his age category and also managed to raise over £1200 for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice.

Martin, 64, retired from work last year and only took up powerlifting as a hobby to keep himself occupied. In July he won the British Drug Free Powerlifting Association Masters Championship in Bradford for the benchpress. This was in the Masters 5 category, ages 60-64. As a result of this, Martin was selected as a member of the England team for the World Drug Free Powerlifting Federations single events championships. It was held in Antwerpen, Belgium on 10-12 October. Martin saw the event as a unique opportunity to raise funds for the hospice, on the basis that he would attempt to beat the British record or get a place in the first three in his age and weight category of 60-67.5 kgs. In the event he managed to beat the British record by lifting 80kgs, which guaranteed a first place finish. Most importantly, Martin was able to raise over £1200 for the hospice and would like to thank everyone who sponsored him for their generosity. Martin trains at the Cloud 9 gym in Shanklin and would welcome some older training partners, “It was hard work, but I hope I’ve shown that it is never too late to achieve your goals.” Dan Parker, who runs Cloud 9 gym, said: “It is very important to keep fit and active at all stages in life. Martin has shown that you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. He is an inspiration to others.”