Issue 13 - The Isle of Wight Mail

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REGATTA TIME Police plan for Cowes Week

A Green Flag for the Green in Ryde

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Bestival Announce Latest Additions

As tens of thousands of people converge on Cowes for the start of the week’s festivities, Police on the Isle of Wight are working closely with regatta organisers, security staff and fellow emergency services, to ensure that this vibrant, friendly event is safe, both on water and land., More on Page 6

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ISSUE NUMBER 13 Friday 2nd August 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Island prepares to welcome royal visitor Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal is to visit the Isle of Wight on Monday 5 August 2013 to carry out a number of engagements.

A regular visitor to Cowes Week, Her Royal Highness will spend time out on the water watching the racing action with regatta organisers before visiting the offices of Cowes Week Limited from where the flagship sailing event is organised.

Her Royal Highness will also spend time at Corf Camp, a base for the Island's scouting movement, where she will officially open their new headquarters and training building and see some scouting activities.

The Princess Royal will also visit the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and John Cheverton Centre in Newport to meet staff and find out about their work. A plaque will be unveiled to commemorate her visit.

In the afternoon, Her Royal Highness will visit the Classic Boat Museum in East Cowes and meet the volunteers involved in restoration work there. The Princess Royal will be shown the collection of boats, including

Coweslip, a Flying Fifteen given to the then Princess Elizabeth and The Duke of Edinburgh by the people of Cowes as a wedding present in 1947.

The Princess Royal will then be guest of honour at a reception at the Royal London Yacht Club, where she is the club's Admiral.

This year the club is celebrating its 175th anniversary.

The Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Major General Martin White, said: "We are looking forward to welcoming The Princess Royal back to the Island this August. The visit is a wonderful opportunity to highlight the valuable work of organisations and volunteers who contribute so much to Island life."

CCG Governing Body discusses urgent and emergency care performance The Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group, the body with the responsibility for the continuous improvement of healthcare on the Isle of Wight held its second meeting in Sandown on Thursday 4th July 2013. Meeting at the Broadway Centre, Sandown, the members of the Governing discussed urgent and emergency care performance.

The paper (GB13-027) highlighted to the Governing Body the local performance of Urgent and Emergency Care Services on the Island especially with regard to A&E and NHS 111 performance. Nationally urgent and emergency care systems have been under significant pressure. The national role out of all NHS 111 call helpline services for nonemergencies were due to be implemented in March 2013, although a number of areas were delayed as systems were not considered ready to go live.

During April 2013 a series of issues and incidents with the Implementation and level of the 111 services nationally have raised public concern and media

alerts across the country.

NHS England have required all Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) to provide assurances that local systems are in place to improve performance where necessary or maintain performance if systems have been managing appropriately. Accident and Emergency and NHS 111 performance have specifically been focused on by NHS England due to national concerns. The Isle of Wight plans to maintain and improve performance have been agreed and the NHS England Wessex Area. Dr John Rivers, CCG Chairman said: “We are assured that urgent and emergency care systems are in place to maintain delivery of services to patients and meet performance targets.

The Isle of Wight performs really well compared to the mainland position.�

Urgent and Emergency Care services on the Isle of Wight are provided by Isle of Wight NHS Trust. Island residents travelling to the mainland will have contact with other services against which the CCG benchmarks the Isle of Wight.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Hosepipe bans once every 10 years - too often or not enough?

While there are no water restrictions on the horizon for this summer, Southern Water wants to hear its customers’ views on how often it is acceptable to introduce hosepipe bans in a drought.

The company is asking the question during a public consultation on its 25-year Water Resources Management Plan, which sets out how the company proposes to ensure there is enough water for the future – whatever the weather.

With just over a week to go until the consultation closes on August 12, 2013, Southern Water is keen to hear the views of its customers on its plan, which includes options such as desalination and water re-use to secure a more resilient water supply between 2015 and 2040.

The proposals allow for the introduction of Temporary Use Bans, which include hosepipe bans, once every 10 years on average.

They also reduce the risk of emergency measures, such as standpipes or rota cuts, where water is restricted to pipes in the street or a few hours a day, from one in 80 years to one in 200 years on average.

Meyrick Gough, Water Strategy & Resources Manager, said: “We have used an innovative approach in our plan to plan for a wider range of droughts than the ones we have seen in the past, which means we would reduce the likelihood of restrictions such as hosepipe bans to once every 10 years. Our aim is also to only

introduce hosepipe bans after we have experienced at least two dry winters in a row.

“At the moment we are seeing Temporary Use Bans in Sussex and Kent once every six years. The resources in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are more resilient, with the last restrictions on the Island in place in 2006 and none in Hampshire since 1976.

“Our public consultation launched in May and so far we have heard from more than 150 customers, some would like to see restrictions more often, to protect the water in our rivers and aquifers when they are low during droughts, and others would like to see us introduce them less often.”

Southern Water would like to hear the views of its customers on this question and others on the targets for leakage and water efficiency, desalination, water re-use and the cost of securing a more reliable water supply.

Customers can read the consultation document and fill in an online questionnaire at www.swhaveyoursay.co.uk/wrmp until August 12. The feedback is automatically forwarded to the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

The plan also includes options to work in partnership with farmers, landowners and rivers trusts to help protect rivers and groundwater from pesticides.

Southern Water is donating £1 to international charity WaterAid for each individual response it receives during the public consultation.

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Hampshire Constabulary to join Brighton Pride 2013 parade Hampshire Constabulary will once again join the Brighton and Hove Pride parade in a show of support for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities.

Fourteen police officers and members of police staff are set to represent the force in the march on Saturday, August 3.

This is the seventh year that officers have been permitted to march in uniform. They will be led by Chief Constable Andy Marsh who joins the parade for the first time. He said: “I’m immensely proud of the achievements the force has made over the last decade in improving life for our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender employees and communities.

“It’s the dedicated people within the organisation who have made these changes happen. They and I remain committed to this work and developing the partnerships we have with our LGB&T communities.

“I believe it is right that Hampshire Constabulary is strongly represented at Brighton and Hove Pride each year. This

is my first as chief constable which is why I will be joining my officers & staff for the parade as a visible demonstration of ongoing our commitment and support.”

This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Resource Group, the force’s LGB&T staff support service and the group which co-ordinates the constabulary’s Lesbian and Gay Liaison Officer service.

PC Darryl Clarke from the Resource Group organises the force’s involvement in the parade. He said: “It’s always an honour to be able to march in uniform on the day.

“Hampshire Constabulary is one of several forces, including Sussex Police, which regularly joins the parade and the response we all receive from the crowds is overwhelming.

“As usual, we’ll be running a stall in Preston Park where you can come and talk to us about what it’s like for LGB&T people working for the force and what to do if you’ve been the victim of a homophobic crime.”

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

The Staff Experience: Moving to the Private Sector Ventnor Botanic Garden hits its first anniversary of the transfer from Isle of Wight Council next week.

On 11 July 2012 a new chapter started at VBG – a social enterprise signed a 125 lease to operate the botanic garden at Ventnor. Almost immediately an admissions charge was introduced to stem the operating losses and the withdrawal of the Council subsidy. For the staff transferring from the Council to the Community Interest Company (C.I.C.) it was both a shock and a pleasure.

“We have gotten a lot done in one year, but we are not out of the woods yet,” explained Chris Kidd, Ventnor Botanic Garden’s Curator. “While we have a huge list of accomplishments, an even larger to do list awaits. What really gripped us was the newfound capacity to get things done, but at the same time we were nervous.”

“The biggest surprise for me was the enthusiasm - after 10 years of decline, decline, decline we suddenly found a new attitude in weeks,” observed Della Pragnell, Business Manager. “One minute we were in a tatty library with a few office desks, the nest minute we had an elegant cafe (The Plantation Room) with jars of loose tea proudly wearing botanic labels.” On visiting the garden one sees the progress immediately: new entrance, a new fountain area, new restaurants, new pathways, new solar panels, and a new Olive Grove. But the outbuildings in the car park are still dilapidated with overflowing gutters and boarded up windows.

Aside from these physical changes, a change in attitude can be noted amongst all the staff both old and new. “I was a government employee at the Garden for 35 years and now I

work for a business. I feel much more involved than ever before. I like knowing what is going on.” commented Dean Miller.

The same sense of momentum is also felt amongst the loyal bunch of Volunteer Tour Guides who now escort you around the Garden.

Rosemary Stewart said, “We have now got a future that we did not before. Our Area Manager, Dean and Alex, are fired up and their enthusiasm is contagious. ” However, the new ethos to focus on visitors and their experience with a smile and a warm hello in spite of adversity was not for everyone – three staff decided to move on. “We totally underestimated how many people would try to avoid the admission charge by jumping the fences and gates or pretending they didn’t know the Garden was no longer subsidised by the Council,” said Jason Melia, Head Gardener.

“Since we put in the sticker system things have gotten a lot better.

People are slowly learning what we are trying to do here and support is growing. I did not care as much under Council ownership, but now that we have to look after ourselves, I care. We want the Garden to survive and to do that we need admissions revenue, not trespassers!”

All the staff talk about accountability. “I dreaded my first performance review, yet I got a lot out of it,” the Curator reminisced. “I was scared of the private sector, but now that I see the pace and the focus on getting things done, it’s refreshing. For the first time I am very proud to part of Ventnor Botanic Garden. From what we have achieved in one year, I cannot wait to see where we will be in two.”

Ration Books at the Ready!

Longer running time for chain ferry during Cowes Regatta Cowes Week starts this week, and as part of this extra overnight services are being provided on the Chain Ferry between 3rd to 10th August (inclusive).

The usual timetable will be in force with operational times extended until 2am. After this there will be each-way services at about 2.20am, 2.40am and the last one at 3am. The usual continuous service will commence at 5am.

On Fireworks Night (Friday 9th) the only vehicles that will be carried between 6pm and 11pm will be emergency vehicles. All times are subject to tides, weather

Harry and Edna are coming to the Needles Battery on Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th August!

Harry and Edna will have talks and demonstrations over the whole day covering life on the homefront during the Second World War, from Rationing to the Home Guard. We'll have the suitcase and navigation. There will be restrictions to the number of people allowed on the Chain Ferry at any one time and a queuing system will be in operation from 6.30pm.

of history out so you can wear the warden's helmet, read the paper from 1941 and cuddle a knitted teddy from an evacuee's suitcase.

The tearoom will be serving some wartime recipes alongside their normal menu.

Normal admission charges to the site apply, no additional charge for the event.

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of Wight Mail | Friday 2 August 2013 IsleTheofIsleWight Mail – February 2012 nd

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

New tourist information points open in Ryde and Brighstone A gift shop in Ryde and a café/bistro in Brighstone have become the latest private-sector businesses to take up the tourism mantle and set themselves up as official Tourist Information Points (TPs) on the Island.

Vernon Cottage in Shanklin which was officially launched last month by VisitEngland CEO, James Berresford - was the first business to receive the support of Visit Isle of Wight (VIOW) and partners when it opened its doors to the visiting public on 18th July.

Kollective Gifts, located on the Esplanade in Ryde, meanwhile, is set to become the Island’s next TP on Friday 2nd August, closely followed by Seven - a café/bistro and coffee house in Brighstone, which will open on Thursday, 8th August. Currently run as a TP, the Ventnor Seasons newsagents will be getting a makeover in time for the Ventnor Fringe Festival, which runs from 14 to 17 August.

All will be promoted by VIOW as the focal point in their respective areas for those seeking local knowledge.

VIOW believes there is a need for

a range of smaller TPs in pubs, cafes, shops or galleries that are located in towns and villages where large groups of visitors can be found. Keen to see if similar operations can be established in other Island hotspots before the summer is out, these pilot schemes will be resourced with start-up support from VIOW and the Isle of Wight Council and evaluated at the end of this year with a view to enhancing and developing the service in the future.

David Thornton, Chief Executive, Visit Isle of Wight Ltd, said: “All of our tourist information points are staffed by friendly, informative people. Sites are highly prominent and virtually unmissable to any visitor to these popular towns and resorts.

“Our role in all of this has been to help businesses with the initial setup, design what they need, provide advice and a list of useful contacts to get the operation up and running, and I would like to thank the Isle of Wight Council for providing some of the funding to help us deliver this pilot scheme and also the businesses who have worked hard to provide these

fantastic facilities which the Island can be proud of.”

Tourist Information Points are now located in the following areas: Shanklin: Vernon Cottage, 1 Eastcliff Road Ryde: Kollective Gifts, Esplanade Brighstone: Seven - Cafe + Bar + Restaurant, Main Road Ventnor: Seasons Newsagents & Post Office, 8-10 High Street Further TPs are planned for later in the year, and VIOW reports they are already in discussion with businesses in Sandown, Godshill, Freshwater Bay, Newport, Yarmouth and Cowes.

VIOW is also creating three temporary "pop up" information services on Red Funnel and Wightlink ferries during the Festival of the Sea weekends: 14th/15th and again on the 21st/22nd September. The Destination Management Organisation (DMO) for the Island in keen to test out the effectiveness of on-board information services and has selected both weekends because they are the opening and closing dates of the Festival the Sea promotional period on the

Island.

Local businesses that feel that they would benefit from the extra promotional exposure to ferry visitors and are able to devote a little time during the weekends are being encouraged to volunteer for duty as a tourism ambassador and provide island information as well as plug their own businesses during the ferry crossings.

David Thornton said: “This is a floating experiment to investigate the potential for creating a longer term tourist information service on the ferries. We will learn about what sort of information people want and whether they find the service of use. I'm hoping that many Island businesses will join us and use the opportunity to promote their own facilities as well as the island as a whole".

For more information, visit www.visitisleofwight.org

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The Big Chris Barber Band "60th Anniversary Tour" Saturday 14 September, 7.30pm MEDINA THEATRE Box Office: 01983-527 020 www.medinatheatre.co.uk Chris Barber OBE this year celebrates his Diamond Jubilee as leader of his band on a full-time professional basis. In fact his career began even earlier - in 1949 – when he started his first amateur band which included Alexis Korner on guitar. Little could either Chris or Alexis have known that they were destined, in their respective ways, to become major figures in bringing blues and gospel music to audiences of the UK and Europe.

By 1954 Chris Barber’s Jazz Band was performing at major concert venues such as The Royal Festival Hall and their first LP ‘New Orleans Joys’ included a skiffle track, ‘Rock Island Line’ featuring their banjoist Lonnie Donegan. Released as a single, it topped the charts both sides of the Atlantic and paved the way, not only for Lonnie Donegan’s solo career, but also for USA concert appearances by Chris

Barber’s Jazz Band. So, as we can see, Chris Barber’s Band were ‘taking coals to Newcastle’ several years before The Beatles were acclaimed (and honoured!) for similar achievements.

The Big Chris Barber Band features everything from New Orleans to blues to late 20's Ellington, played with extraordinary panache and skill.

Barber is an icon of traditional jazz in the UK.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

The Island Highland Gathering

The Island Highland Gathering returns to Robin Hill Adventure Park & Gardens on Sunday 11th August for a full day of Caledonian themed entertainment.

This is the third year that the lush surroundings of Robin Hill will trill with the sound of bagpipes, whoosh with haggis hurling through the air and resonant with the thud of tossed cabers.

The full line-up is taking shape with The Rose and Thistle Pipe Band, The Metropolitan Police Emerald Society Pipe and Drums Band, Glenduart Pipe and Drums Band and The IHS Reading Scottish Pipe Band all performing in the Main Arena.

In-between performances from these top bands there will be more Main Arena entertainment, from the IOW Caledonian Society Dancers, Bloodstone Border Morris, Medina Marching Band, The Alice Boyle O'Dowda Dance Group, The Shamrock and Thistle Dancers and fantastic professional re-enactment displays from the 1st Battalion 42nd Regiment of Foot 1815, or 'The Black Watch' as

they were known, throughout the day. That's not all though, on the Celtic Stage there will be music from Second Time Around, Slainte Va and 2 rousing performances from the Wight Hot Pipes.

There will also be wandering performances from The Trafalgar Drummer and Fife Player and Michael Sinclair with his ukulele.

Plus Whiskey and Scottish food tasting, the Rabbie Burns Experience, Havea-go Bagpiping Sessions and the welcome return of the fans' favourite the Island Highland Gathering in its very own Highland Sports Arena.

The Hospice is currently looking for teams to join in the fun of the games, Karen Eeles, the Hospice's Fundraising Manager said: "Are you up for a challenge? Fancy entering a team in our Island Highland Gathering Games?

"We're looking for teams of 5 to get involved and compete for the coveted Island Highland Pentathlon Trophy. All teams will compete in 5 (kind of) traditional

Scottish disciplines including Tug of War, Haggis Hurling, Tossing the Caber, the Highland Hay Roll and one mystery event! Team entries cost £50 (£10 per person) and this includes entrance into the park all day plus we might throw in a kilt or two! So if you and your friends, family or colleaugues fancy being a part of one of the Island's funniest events

give us a call on 528989 or visit www.iwhospice.org to download an information pack."

Tickets for the Island Highland Gathering are £9.95 each and are available now from all of the Hospice Shops, from the Hospice Fundraising Office on (01983) 528989 and from Robin Hill Adventure Park and Gardens.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

UK sailor helping to empower women in Latin America Ed Hill, UK professional solo sailor, is supporting UK charity the Earth Education Project (EEP) and will launch this collaboration on Sunday August 4th at Cowes Week by racing with full Artemis and EEP branding on his grand prix solo offshore sailing boat Artemis 37. This boat has just completed the one month gruelling unofficial world championships of solo racing finishing in 29th position.

In November 2012, EEP supporters bid at the charity’s annual auction to race for a day with Ed Hill at Cowes week with all proceeds going to fund EEP’s women’s empowerment programmes in Nicaragua, Latin America.. This Sunday the charity supporters will race with Ed Hill.

Ed is hugely proud of his association with EEP and through his solo sailing hopes to raise awareness of the charity and the sustainable development and education that it promotes.

The Earth Education Project works to empower women in Nicaragua from some of the world’s poorest communities to have access to an education, health supplies, family support

and clean water. EEP provides women with job skill training and an income at a the EEP paper recycling workshop set up near the region’s largest rubbish dump, La Chureca. Through the work programme women learn the skills to integrate into the local labour market and can support their families and send their children to school. Since 2009 EEP has reintegrated 32 women and as a reslut 150 children who previously worked on a rubbish dump are now in full time education and receive healthcare.

Charity founder , Andrea Paltzer says “We are very excited to be launching this innovative partnership. As a sportsman and supporter of the charity Ed approached us asking how he could support us through his sailing. We believe everyone has the potential to help the women in Nicaragua whatever their profession or capacity. By racing during Cowes week with full Artemis and EEP branding we saw this as the ideal platform to promote EEP to a wider audience” For further information about EEP’s work go to http://iow.me/9

The Glamorous Mystery of Miss Terri at Ventnor Arts Club The lounge was full of expectant, chattering members and guests, there to see another artiste’s debut performance on the Island brought to us by the pioneering team at Ventnor Arts Club.

The house lights dimmed, the background music faded, spotlights went on at the front of the room but it was through the big wooden doors of the former bank that Miss Terri made her entrance.

Her gown was sparkling, her make up completely over the top and eyelashes as heavy as any eyelids could bear, she made greeted and posed her way through the crowd towards the microphone.

The opening bars of her first song provided the beats to which she walked and when she launched into song, the power and range of her voice was vast and captivated everybody from the outset.

The ‘art’ in this sort of performance is a perfect marriage of sound and visual presentation the result of careful transformation and attention to every detail. Miss Terri spoke between songs of her memories of

Aunt Nellie with whom she came to the Island many years ago as a little ‘boy’.

This ‘visual chameleon’, a regular of Madame JoJo’s in Soho, is as her name implies ambiguous to say the least. She presented a mystery which enhanced the evening, giving everybody something to talk about during the break and costume change.

But it was her sheer professionalism, glamour, ability to engage the audience and the high camp musical cabaret that made this an evening to remember.

A young lady celebrating her birthday received a personal dedication and attention.

For everybody in the audience a rabble rousing, participatory version of Bo Rap and of course no evening such as this would have been complete without a liberal sprinkling of Liza and Shirley.

A strongly called encore included ‘Bring me sunshine’ and saw members of the audience gather a conga through the room before surrounding Miss Terri for a final

applause and photographs. Miss Terri was a wonderful breath of fresh air and glamorous, good clean fun. We can’t wait for her return to Ventnor Arts Club later in the year but until then we look forward to more variety and

diversity at Ventnor’s newest gem on its High Street. Its growing membership is enjoying their discovery quietly but word is now spreading. Luckily the club is, at the moment, accepting applications for membership.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

The Bobby Scheme extended to the Isle of Wight A Hampshire-based initiative to provide free home safety and security surveys for the elderly and the vulnerable is being extended to the Isle of Wight from the start of August.

The Bobby Scheme, operated by the Blue Lamp Trust, is being launched on the Island in collaboration with the police and the Island’s fire and rescue service.

The scheme, due to start on the Island from 1 August, will initially operate as a pilot project for two days a week.

As well as safety and security surveys it will provide associated works, if required. Among the security measures the service will be able to help with are door and window locks, door chains and smoke detectors. The scheme on the Island may be extended to fulltime in due course.

Alan Lovell, chairman of the board of trustees of the Blue Lamp Trust, said: “We are delighted to be in a position to extend the Bobby Scheme onto the Island in collaboration with colleagues from the police and fire service. We have had huge support from the council, the police and former Island High Sheriff Nick Hayward, and now look forward to working with them to help residents on the Island feel safer and more secure in their homes.”

Superintendent Will Schofield said: “I am extremely pleased to welcome the Bobby Scheme to the Isle of Wight. This will provide a valuable service to vulnerable persons and victims of crime. It will be an addition to the fantastic work that is already being provided by charitable organisations on the Island.”

Chief fire officer for the Island, Steve Apter, said: “This is an excellent scheme which will enhance the safety at home of elderly and vulnerable residents on the Island – and will complement our existing home fire safety initiatives.”

The Blue Lamp Trust is a registered charity set up in 2011 to promote and enhance community safety in Hampshire. It was established by the then High Sheriff for Hampshire, Alan Lovell, the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Hampshire Constabulary.

The trust was established to develop a sustainable income stream to support the work of the Hampshire Bobby Trust, which provided practical help with home safety and security to the elderly and vulnerable in Hampshire. The Blue Lamp Trust also provides grants to local projects, supports a wide range of good causes in the community, and offers safer driver training for businesses.

Serious injuries in an assault A 32 year old man, was attacked in the area of Bishops Close and Worcester Close in Sandown between 6pm and 6.30pm on Friday, July 26. The victim was taken to St Mary’s Hospital in Newport with serious facial injuries where he is being treated by doctors. The three attackers are described as: : A white women, 5ft 10in tall, aged between 35 and 40, with brown eyes, straight short brown hair and was wearing pink

trousers and bracelets. : A white man, 6ft tall muscular build, aged between 45 and 50, with short brown greying hair and wearing a grey t-shirt. : A white man, 6ft tall skinny build, aged between 45 and 50, balding and wearing a t-shirt with buttons.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to contact DC Katy Lee Newport CID on 101 or call the Crimestoppers charity line on 0800 555 111.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Elderly man dies following collision The elderly man involved in a collision on Binstead Hill, Ryde on July 18 has died in hospital.

James Cannell, 97, from Binstead was walking along the pavement towards Ryde when it is thought he suffered a medical episode causing him to fall into the road where he was struck by a green DAF 7.5 tonne truck.

The incident happened at 11.32am.

Mr Cannell was taken to St Mary’s Hospital in Newport with multiple life-threatening injuries. He died shortly after 7.30pm on Friday (July 26).

A family statement reads: “James was a talented musician who worked and played in the band on numerous P&O Cruise liners for over 20 years. “He will be sorely missed.”

Police are anxious to hear from anyone who may have seen the collision, as well as anyone who saw an elderly man walking in that area shortly before 11.30 on July 18.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt Sanderson on 101.

Sports clubs to have their say The 1,130 Community Amateur Sports Clubs in the South East have until 12 August to let HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) know their views on how tax reliefs support their work in the future.

The Government announced on 4 March 2013 that it would amend the qualifying conditions for Community Amateur Sports Clubs (CASCs) to make the rules clearer for clubs and HMRC to apply.

Since 2002, over 6,300 clubs have registered with HMRC for the CASC scheme. They have claimed over £12 million in Gift Aid and around £100 million has been saved by clubs in respect of business rates.

Sajid Javid, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, said: “We are committed to delivering and maintaining a sporting legacy after the success of the London Olympics. As part of this, we want to encourage more people to get involved in sport in their community, including through local sports clubs. There are generous tax reliefs available to community sports clubs already, we are clarifying the rules on these and proposing some changes to ensure that clubs can benefit fully from the Government’s support.”

The Consultation Document was can be found at http://iow.me/7

Hovertravel connects the Island to London

Hovertravel has joined forces with National Express in a move that connects the Isle of Wight in its entirety to London.

In response to customer demand, Hovertravel has created a through ticket from anywhere on the Island to London, via the hovercraft. This new service, operated in conjunction with Southern Vectis and National Express alongside Hovertravel was officially launched 29 July.

By working together with National Express, the UK’s largest coach operator, Hovertravel has secured a much better service than was previously available to the UK's capital with addition of two essential connecting routes to the UK's two biggest airports.

As well as low-cost fares and a guaranteed seat, customers travelling with National Express coaches will benefit from business-class leather seats, the comfort of air-conditioning and the convenience of plug sockets onboard. Loretta Lale explains,

"We appreciate that the Island community considers a connection to London as an essential service and we have been working with our transport partners to create a seamless journey."

For Islanders, this through ticket is easy to use and simple to book. Travellers catch a Southern Vectis bus from anywhere on the Isle of Wight to the Ryde Hover terminal, hop on the hovercraft to Southsea and then get on a coach from Southsea Hover terminal to London Victoria.

Loretta continues, " This connection to London and both Heathrow and Gatwick airports is an excellent example of how we are continuing to offer very attractive travel products for the Island community. Additionally this is an attraction and convenient link to anyone wishing to visit any destination on the Isle of Wight. " National Express UK Coach Managing Director, Tom Stables

said: “We are thrilled to be announcing this exciting new partnership which means with the summer well underway, holidaymakers from the Island can look forward to getting to the capital or the airport without the hassle of buying multiple tickets. As the UK’s largest coach network we are committed to growing our partnerships so more people can access comfortable, convenient and great-value transport.”

Matt Kitchin, General Manager of the island’s bus operator Southern Vectis said: “This offers an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors alike to leave the car at home and travel to and from the capital and major airports without the hassle of driving or car parking at their destination. We believe this offers a competitively priced alternative to travelling by car across the Solent and beyond.”

In addition to this, National Express coachcard holders can save a third off the cost.

Catch up with second property tax People who have sold properties which are not their main homes, and have not told HM Revenue and Customs about any profit, have one month left to make use of the disclosure opportunity.

The Property Sales Campaign is aimed at those selling second homes in the UK or abroad where Capital Gains Tax (CGT) should be paid. It includes properties that were rented out and holiday homes.

Taxpayers have until 9 August to tell HMRC about any unpaid tax on such property sales, and until 6 September to pay the tax

that they owe. By using the campaign to come forward voluntarily, people will receive the best possible terms, and any penalty will be lower than if HMRC approaches them first.

Marian Wilson, Head of HMRC Campaigns, said: “Over the last few months we have published articles and written to a lot of people to make them aware of the campaign. As a result, hundreds of people have now come forward. It is not too late for people to contact us.

“If you have sold a second home you might not know it could

attract Capital Gains Tax. If anyone has done this in the past and is unsure, they should look at HMRC’s website and use our simple decision tree to find out if they might owe CGT. Telling HMRC about your tax liabilities is straightforward, and help, advice and support are available.”

For more details on the campaign, taxpayers can visit HMRC’s website at http://iow.me/8 Help is also available from HMRC by calling 0845 601 8819.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

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NHS 111 working well on Island says Chief Executive Unlike mainland NHS 111 services the Island’s 111 health line is delivering a good service says, the Isle of Wight NHS Trust Chief Executive, Karen Baker.

Following national publicity about NHS Direct withdrawing from the provision of NHS 111 services Karen said: “I want to reassure everyone that our service works and is not plagued by problems. Our service is different because it’s integrated with the 999 service and other services such as GP Out of Hours, District Nursing, Mental Health, Wightcare and Patient Transport.

These are all based in our integrated Urgent Care Hub. Our service continues as a pilot until March 2014 when we hope our Commissioners will approve it’s continuation.”

Chris Smith, Head of the Island’s Ambulance Service and NHS 111, said: “I would like to thank the public for their recent support and praise for the service provided here on the Island.

Unlike many of our mainland colleagues, the Island’s Ambulance service has been in partnership with the GP Out Of Hours service for several years

and has an excellent working relationship with GP’s on the Island. We are very proud to provide this service to the public and, since our go live date, we have dealt with over 47,000 calls here on the Island and received only four complaints associated to the NHS 111 service.”

The integrated Urgent Care Hub was established in 2010 with the support of Isle of Wight Council to manage and coordinate all emergency, urgent and unscheduled care for the Island.

The hub aims to provide care closer to the patient’s home, avoid unnecessary admission to the acute hospital, deliver high quality co-ordinated patient/client care and ensure more efficient use of both organisations’ resources.

The Urgent Care Hub has a sophisticated and robust IT infrastructure to support this unique solution, which enables the sharing of information with all health and social care professionals involved in the patient/client’s care package. The hub is a whole system approach, linking the hospital, ambulance, GPs in and out of hours, district nursing, multi

MP’s Surgery Comes to your Neighbourhood It’s that time of the year again when the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, will be travelling around the Island carrying out his annual Summer Surgery. The surgery tour gives Islanders the opportunity to speak to their MP about issues that concern them whilst he is in their town or village.

Mr Turner said: “The Summer Recess gives me the perfect chance to get out and about in the community, which I enjoy very much.

I get to talk to lots of people; some feel their problem doesn’t really merit a special trip to my office in Newport and I also get to meet Islanders who don’t really have a problem – but just want to have a chat about an issue which is on their minds. It is always useful for MPs to hear what people are thinking. No appointment is necessary so please do come along with any problem you have or just to ‘get things off your chest’. As well as my weekly surgery in Newport I often hold surgeries in supermarkets across the Island

Isle of Wight

and also knock on doors on many Saturday mornings – but the Summer surgery remains popular with many people.“ The Summer Surgery programme is attached. There will also be posters on Parish and Town Council notice boards giving details. Mr Turner will also have a stand at the Garlic Festival on 17th and 18th August where he always enjoys meeting Islanders.

Mr Turner’s Summer Surgery is again supported by Premier Ford of Newport, who will be lending him a suitable vehicle to be used as a surgery, both for privacy and in case the weather gives the need for some shelter.

-disciplinary community support teams, mental health and social care through a call centre that promotes interdisciplinary working and provides a single point of contact for patients through two telephone numbers, 999 and 111. This is achieved following initial triage using NHS Pathways, where patients are signposted to the most appropriate professional through the use of a comprehensive capacity management system and directory of services (DOS) that includes all services provided on the Isle of Wight.

The NHS 111 activity for the period 1st February 2012 to 31st January 2013 was as follows: Total number of calls to NHS 111 47,705 · Number of Ambulance despatches 4,476 · Recommended to the Emergency Department 2,360 · Recommended to attend primary and community care including pharmacy 21,100 Chris Smith continued: “All the staff in the centre are professionally trained within their own specialist areas and undertake rigorous training and

assessment prior to “going live” on the system. The team in the Hub are all Island Based staff who care about the Islands population and visitors and are motivated to provide the best level of advice possible and ensure we direct people to the right care at the right time and, importantly, the right place.”

When awarding accreditation to deliver NHS 111 on the Isle of Wight, the Department of Health was complimentary on both the use of innovative technology and the level of integration achieved to deliver the service.

The NHS 111 scheme on the Island is a “pilot” scheme and is due to run until March 2014. Isle of Wight NHS Trust which includes the Island’s Ambulance, community, hospital and mental health services, are working with Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to review the service. Future developments within the hub will support remote monitoring through telehealth and telecare to support caring for patients in their own home, admission avoidance and early discharge from the acute setting.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Green Flag Community Award for second year running Play Lane Millennium Green, in Ryde, has received the Green Flag Community Award for the second year running. Pam Sim, secretary of Play Lane Millennium Green Trust, said, “We’re thrilled to receive this award again. It recognises the year-round hard work put into the Green by the trustees & other volunteers for the benefit of the public; we know from their comments that they appreciate the feel of the area.”

To celebrate this great achievement there will be a flagraising ceremony, complete with refreshments, on the Green on Saturday 10th August, at 2.30pm.

Anyone with an interest in the Green is welcome to attend.

The Millennium Green: Play Lane Millennium Green is four acres of naturally regenerated oak woodland off Play Lane, on the south-west outskirts of Ryde, and was opened in 2001 by Alan Titchmarsh. Formerly grazed meadowland, the area has developed into woodland since the cessation of grazing in the 1980s.

Local residents, with the help of

the Countryside Agency, bought the land at the turn of the century to celebrate the Millennium; it is now being managed by trustees and other volunteers to ensure that it is of maximum benefit to the wildlife that lives in and around it, as well as the people who use it for recreation.

More information is on the Trust’s website: PlayLane.org.uk, or from Pam Sim on 566040.

Motorcyclist seriously injured Isle of Wight Roads Policing Unit is appealing for witnesses following a serious road traffic accident on Staplers Road on Friday, July 26.

The incident occurred at around 3.20pm just before Butterfly World, when a Blue Ford Escort travelling along Staplers Road from Wootton towards Newport was involved in a collision with a motorcycle travelling in the opposite direction. The rider was thrown from the motorcycle and

suffered serious injuries.

Emergency services attended the scene and the road was closed for about two and half hours.

Police would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the accident. Anyone with information should contact PC Geoff Turner of the Roads Policing Unit at Shanklin Police Station by phoning 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Mopeds stolen from Newport Police are appealing for witnesses after two mopeds were stolen from a Drill Hall Road car park in Newport sometime between Friday, July 26 and Saturday July 27.

The orange Peugeot Speedfight and red Peugeot V Clic were located in Victoria Recreation Ground in Newport on Sunday, July 28. In both cases the mopeds had been damaged.

Investigating officer, PC Matthew Rowlands of Newport Safer Neighbourhoods Team said, “We are interested in witnesses who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously either in the Drill

Hall car park or where the mopeds were dumped in the recreation ground during those times.

“Moped owners are advised to follow Bike Safe crime prevention advice and make sure their Mopeds are parked in well lit areas, and if possible within eyeshot of CCTV cameras. Secure bike wheels with suitable locks and make sure when not in use they are stored securely and even alarmed if possible.” Anyone with information can contact PC Rowlands at Newport police station by phoning 101. or anonymously by phoning Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Policing plans for Cowes 2013 Week Revealed Policing plans are in place to keep crime levels low at the Cowes Week sailing regatta, one of the world’s largest sports and entertainment events.

As tens of thousands of people converge on Cowes for the start of the week’s festivities, Police on the Isle of Wight are working closely with regatta organisers, security staff and fellow emergency services, to ensure that this vibrant, friendly event is safe, both on water and land.

Local Safer Neighbourhoods Teams will maintain a highly visible presence with increased foot and cycle patrols in Cowes, and Hampshire Constabulary’s Marine Unit will be on patrol in the Solent.

The extra officers in Cowes aim to provide community reassurance and a swift response to any problems reported during this busy week, meaning levels of policing across the rest if the island will not be affected.

As well as local Safer Neighbourhoods teams, experienced specialist police officers are working alongside staff from Isle of Wight Council to carry out licensing checks at pubs and clubs in Cowes.

Isle of Wight Inspector Samantha Dunlop of Cowes Safer Neighbourhoods Team said: “We want people to enjoy the regatta in a safe environment, whilst respecting the local residents and community of Cowes by following some simple crime prevention advice; “Cowes Week is the kind of large event that can be targeted by opportunist thieves because they believe potential victims will be having a good time and less vigilant about

possible risks.

Please remember to look after your belongings and keep any valuables in secure places out of sight. “Parents and guardians are reminded to help deter their children from underage drinking, especially on Fireworks night.

2012 saw police deal with a number of youths who were under the influence, caused crime and disorder.

“Sailors are asked not to leave valuable items, such as petrol supplies and navigation equipment, unattended on board their vessels wherever possible.

Boat owners should ensure their belongings are clearly labelled.

This will help avoid unnecessary alerts over suspicious unidentified packages.

“If you have any concerns please report them to police so they can respond swiftly. Phone 101. In an emergency, call 999.”

Police also welcome the presence of ‘Street Pastors’ during Cowes Week for another successive year.

Street Pastors are independent and do not work for the police, but their presence and contact with people on the street assists in preventing and calming situations where there is the potential for crime and disorder.

Cowes Lifeboat Rescues Windsurfer in Choppy Solent A windsurfer who was defeated by challenging conditions in the Solent on the evening of 29 July was eventually rescued by Cowes RNLI lifeboat. The windsurfer was first spotted in the water, clinging to his board, some 200 metres from Gurnard Sailing Club. Because of a strong ebb tide and a Force 5 south-westerly it was clear to the on-shore spectator he was helpless to prevent himself being swept westwards.

The lifeboat, launched just after 6 pm, was soon in the area, and despite the choppy conditions the crew quickly located the man, by then half a mile from the first sighting.

He and his board were taken aboard the lifeboat and were delivered back to Gurnard beach.

Helming the lifeboat was Alasdair Boden, and the other three members of the crew included Heather who recently became his wife.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

CCG Governing Body Holds Meeting in Sandown The body overseeing the continuous improvement of healthcare on the Isle of Wight held its second meeting in Sandown on Thursday 4th July 2013.

Meeting at the Broadway Centre, Sandown, the members of the Governing Body of the Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group held informal discussions with local Councillors and representatives from voluntary and local organisations before the formal meeting started. Chairing the meeting Dr John Rivers welcomed everyone and made a presentation about the role and responsibilities of the CCG outlining the CCGs key strategic priorities which are: Long Term Conditions – improve quality of life for people suffering with long term conditions and support them to manage their condition to avoid hospital admission Mental Health –redesign care, driving a shift from institutional to community care Dementia – support people with dementia and their carers to live independently by improving the quality and access to care Frail older people – ensure vulnerable frail older people are treated with dignity and respect in the most suitable environment to ensure best personal and clinical outcomes Urgent care – commission the best quality services through an integrated healthcare system that is simple to use, delivers best outcomes and care in the most appropriate settings.

“The really important thing about the CCG is that we’re here to oversee the continuous improvement of the health services used by Islanders,” said John. “We commission and fund the majority of health services on the Island and also services in Portsmouth, Southampton and further afield. We want to work closely with everyone on the Island.”

Island GP Dr Sarah Bromley, a

member of the CCG Clinical Executive spoke to the meeting about the ‘My Life A Full Life’ programme and outlined the vision for 2016: Empowered and responsible people, People take their health seriously, Good local information, People able to manage their own condition , People are confident in expressing their views, Greater choice and control with personal budgets, The role of carers is valued, People hold their own integrated records and Communities are supportive places Sarah said: “I was really pleased with the level of awareness amongst the audience of the ‘My Life A Full Life’ programme. We have just published a newsletter which summarises many of the activities which are supporting and improving the health and social care for individuals with long term conditions. We want as many people as possible to be part of this flagship programme which will give us a stronger voice to influence change both on the Island and beyond the Island’s boundaries.”

The business of the CCG Governing Body meeting included the approval of the process for reviewing enhanced services, which are currently provided by GP practices. The CCG needs to assure itself that the process being used to transition services from their current format to the new format meets strict criteria in relation to managing conflicts of interest and procurement – particularly as GP practices may be the natural home for many of these services.

Due to the potential conflict of interests both Dr Rivers and Dr Jo Hesse did not participate in decision making on this issue which was chaired by CCG Governing body deputy chair, Fred Psyk. The review of Enhanced Services covers contracts to the value of over £1.1m and the CCG Governing Body approved the planned process to oversee the transition.

‘Creatures of the Night’ in Ventnor Botanic Garden with Graham Street from the Island's Bat Hospital

Tuesday, August 13th at 7.30pm.

A chance to see and hear bats. Meet in front of the Visitor Centre on the car-park side. Donations will be appreciated. This will be cancelled if raining.

"pedal power" - the movie For the first time ever, a cycling cinema experience will feature in the Isle of Wight Cycling Festival’s programme of events.

The unusual cinema experience, which is powered only by cyclists, is to take place on 28 September at Seaclose Park in Newport.

The audience is invited to cycle to the screening, their bicycles will then be placed in a stand which will capture the power generated as people cycle. A number of bicycles will be provided on the night for those unable to ride to the venue – these should be booked in advance.

There is no stored energy so if the pedals stop – so does the film.

The free event is a great way of bringing people together to celebrate cinema, sustainability, renewable technology and, of course, cycling.

Festival organisers are giving people the chance to choose which cycling themed film should be screened by voting for their favourite on the festival’s website www.sunseaandcycling.com.

The choices are: E.T. the ExtraTerrestrial – featuring the iconic scene where ET helps the children escape from government agents by powering a bicycle into the moonlit sky; Belleville Rendezvous – a French animation telling the story of Champion, an orphan raised by his grandmother, who grows up to take part in the

legendary Tour de France - only to get himself kidnapped along the way; and the 1969 western, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid - which includes the famous bicycle scene of Butch (Paul Newman) awakening Etta (Katharine Ross) with his new bicycle, on which they romp to Bacharach’s "Raindrops Keep Fallin' on My Head".

People can vote for the film they would most like to see by visiting www.sunseaandcycling.com, the film with the most votes will be screened – come rain or shine!

Councillor Shirley Smart, cabinet member for tourism and the economy, said: “The cycling festival attracts thousands of cyclists to the Island each September, many of whom come back to visit at other times of the year - providing a boost to the Island’s tourism industry. The cycling cinema is a great addition to this year’s programme, a great family event for a cycling festival that provides a great range of rides for all ages and abilities.”

Programmes for this year’s cycling festival – which features almost 70 rides - are now available from the Island’s libraries, council buildings, bike shops and leisure centres.

All of this year’s rides can be found on the festival’s website www.sunseaandcycling.com.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Free community event returns to eastern gardens Impact Ryde is a family-friendly community event that features free live music, children’s activities and the opportunity to hear more about the Christian faith.

Impact Ryde will take place on Saturday 17th August, between 12 & 4pm. The event is now in its second year and hopes to return even bigger than before, with Welsh folk-rock band, ‘Written in Kings’, hoping to get everyone’s feet-tapping. The five-piece band was recently selected as ‘Artist of the Week’ with their single ‘Fun’

by BBC ‘Introducing Wales’.

‘I strongly recommend you watch their videos or go to their live shows if you want to hear some proper live music and being filled with a lot of positive energy,’ says Nicole Venglovica, Editor of ‘True Music’ magazine.

Singer and songwriter Jacob Lloyd will be performing a solo acoustic set that is perfect for the beach-side setting.

Combining real life, heartfelt lyrics with a laidback acoustic feel, Jacob, at just 16 years old, possesses a level of depth and maturity rarely found

in others his age.

As well as the live music, local Christians will be talking about the message of Christianity and how it is still relevant 2000 years on. You will hear how Jesus continues to impact the lives of people with insightful life stories.

Meanwhile, off-stage, the café tent will be providing free drinks and homemade cakes, and a burger van will be offering burgers and hot dogs in return for donations. Children are welcome to come along and check out the Kids’ Zone, which will have a variety of free activities.

Organisers, Mel and Adam Denley said, ‘We are really excited about doing Impact Ryde again. We want to get alongside the people of our local community to let them know that the church cares and to share how the Bible changes real lives today.’ To find out more visit impactryde.co.uk, find them on Facebook (/ImpactRyde), follow them on Twitter (@ImpactRyde), or contact David Cornes in St. James’s Church Office on 01983 566381.

Government proposals on rating of empty premises “do not go far enough”, Says CLA The CLA has submitted a response to the Government’s empty property rates consultation, describing the proposals as “not going far enough”.

The Association said the proposals to exempt newly-built commercial property completed between 1 October 2013 and 30 September 2016 from empty property rates for the first 18 months still fail to benefit the rural economy.

CLA regional surveyor Tim Broomhead said: “The consultation is a welcome step in the right direction, but it doesn’t go anything like far enough.

“These proposals offer no hope to farmers and rural businesses who were urged to diversify in recent

years and, having done so, they are left unable to find tenants and face hefty business rates.

“If the Government wishes to encourage economic growth, it cannot continue to increase taxes on entrepreneurship & diversification.”

The Association said it has always opposed any increases in the rating of empty properties which have appalling ramifications for the rural economy Mr Broomhead said: “If increases are to occur, we need a much longer exemption period than the Government proposes to stimulate speculative development.

“If we are to see any real difference, we need at least five years of relief on empty premises.”

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

GPs Rated Highly by Residents Island GP practices exceed national patient satisfaction rates in almost every aspect of the care they give to patients according to the latest national survey of GP practices.

The survey conducted on behalf of the Department of Health by specialists Ispos MORI covered the period July 2012 to March 2013.

More than 2,100 islanders responded to the survey, which assesses patients’ experiences of the access and quality of care they receive from their local GPs. Despite the fact that patients on the island report ill health, pain and mobility problems more frequently that their mainland equivalents, GP practices on the island are clearly rising to the challenge and supporting patients well. Overall the Island is in the top 10 per cent when it comes to patient satisfaction with GP practices.

Highlights include: 93% of patients said they were satisfied with their GP practice compared to 89% nationally 86 % of patients say their surgery is open at a convenient time compared to 82% nationally 86% of patients say they can get through to their surgery easily on the phone compared to 80 per cent nationally 77% of patients say they normally see their preferred GP compared to 69% nationally 89% would recommend their surgery to friends and family compared to 82% nationally More than 96% of patients on the island report they trust their doctor compared to 94% nationally 94% of patients found surgery receptionists helpful and friendly compared to an average of 91% nationally The Island is fortunate to have some outstanding practices including: Garfield Road Surgery in Ryde who achieved 100% overall satisfaction from its patients with 96% of patients recommending the practice to their family and friends. The practice also beats all others on the island for GPs showing care and concern towards their patients and for the trust that patients put into their doctor.

Shanklin Medical Centre, whose receptionists scored 100% satisfaction from patients for their helpfulness. They beat all other island practices, with 97% of patients saying the surgery is open at convenient times for them.

Grove House Surgery in Ventnor where 97% patients have confidence in the treatment that the practice nurses offer and 93% of patients reported the nurses treat them with care and concern.

Commenting on the results, Clinical Commissioning Group chair Dr John Rivers, who is also a senior partner at Shanklin Medical Centre said, “As GPs, nurses and staff working in practices, we try hard to deliver an excellent service to our patients.

People come to us when they are at their most vulnerable and it is important not only that we do a great job at diagnosing and treating patients, but that we do it with obvious compassion and concern. Patients know if they are getting a good primary care service and I am very proud of what we are doing on the island.”

He continued, “Every practice works hard to recruit and retain good GPs, nurses and other staff.

As working practices change with ever more part time GPs, more integrated care and more flexibility in the workforce, we will need to work closely with patients to ensure that their expectations of primary care are met.”

While the results overall are very good, practices whose patients rated them less well will be looking at what they can do better.

John commented, “As a fundamental part of the health service on the island we must always strive to improve – even when we are already doing a good job!”

Police re appeal after expensive bike stolen from the Cowes area Police on the Isle of Wight are issuing an appeal for information.

Sometime between June 26 and June 30 someone has broken into a shed in the back garden of an address in Ward Avenue, Cowes and stolen a mountain bike worth approx £2,500.

Both the shed and the bike were secured at the time.

Anyone with information can contact Newport Police Station by phoning 101.

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

Boat stolen from Yarmouth Police are appealing for information following the theft of a RIB (rigid Inflatable boat) from Yarmouth Harbour.

The boat was taken from the dinghy pontoon sometime between Saturday, July 6 and Saturday, July 20 when the owner made the discovery.

The white Avon 4.2 metre RIB and outboard motor are valued at approx £3000. PC Jeff Rogers of Yarmouth police station said: “The RIB is white with a grey cover at the front and has a 15 HP Mariner outboard engine.

“I am appealing to anyone who

may have seen anything suspicious at Yarmouth Harbour during those dates or saw someone leaving with the stolen boat to contact me at Yarmouth Police Station via 101.”

Crime prevention advice for local boat owners can be found at Hampshire Constabulary’s Project Kraken page on our website.

Anyone with information can contact PC Rogers at Yarmouth police station by phoning 101.

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

Trailer stolen from Shorwell Police in Yarmouth are appealing for information following the theft of an Ifor Williams Trailer on Monday, July 22 from Shorwell on the Isle of Wight.

The single wheel base trailer was parked in a lay-by to the side of the owner’s address (The Green) and taken sometime between 5.00am and 5.00pm that day.

Police are asking members of the public who may have witnessed

anyone acting suspiciously or who may have information leading to the whereabouts of the trailer to contact them on by ringing 101.

Anyone with information can contact PCSO Justin Keefe at Yarmouth Police Station by phoning 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

BESTIVAL ANNOUNCE LATEST ADDITIONS TO GARGANTUAN 10th BIRTHDAY LINE-UP It’s a scorcher out there and in keeping with the glorious great British summer, we’ve got red hot news of some ace new acts joining our incredible 10th birthday spectacular line-up this coming September 5th-8th, with an array of foot-stomping live action and dancefloor spanking DJs set to join Elton John, Snoop Dogg, Fatboy Slim, Franz Ferdinand, The Flaming Lips, Richie Hawtin, Carl Cox, Julio Bashmore and more on the decks of HMS Bestival. Plus we’re unveiling plenty of Thursday night shenanigans including our Big Top and Replay With Rob da Bank line-ups and there’s ticket, travel and premium camping news galore!

Rob da Bank says, “The sun is out, the sky is blue and we've got a load more acts for you! Bestival never stops booking live bands and DJs for your pleasure and this year’s no different - from John Newman's soul swing to Simian Mobile Disco's intelligent rave and, if you haven’t seen Pretty Lights’ electronic workout, prepare to be blown away. Besti regulars Kitty, Daisy & Lewis, Dub Pistols and Mr Pete Tong plus a load of firsttimers are also queuing up to pop their Bestival cherry. Not long now people!”

Already bothering the plimsoll line with our heavy cargo of unutterably brilliant acts, there’s still room for more good shipmates aboard trusty HMS Bestival including last week’s UK singles chart No.1 holder, John Newman. No stranger to topping the charts (having already hit the summit with fellow Bestival billed pop behemoth Rudimental), John’s soulful sounds are set to make him a truly big-hitter. There’s also live action from dancefloor geniuses Simian Mobile Disco, genre hopping glitch chief Pretty Lights, rock’n’roll torch bearers and Bestival stalwarts, Kitty Daisy & Lewis, skank-masters the Dub Pistols, another Rudimantal collaborating No.1 type Ella Eyre, barnstorming party starters Skinny Lister, uplifting rock and electronica-clash collaborators Mixhell, chap-hop don Mr B The Gentleman Rhymer, Stockholm based quartet Kateboy, Southampton thrashers Polio, cosmic-pop chanteuse Zhala, Kent’s melancholic indie tunesmiths Story Books and the impossibly young & talented Will .

Joseph Smith.

Stepping up to the decks on a mission to keep you dancing all weekend long are BBC Radio 1’s original dance music champion Pete Tong, Fabric resident and Scrutton Street shaker Daniel Avery, Wall of Sound top boy Mark Jones and deep sea bass warrior Mumdance. Plus there will be sets from Lovesick, Dream Koala, ComfyPorn DJs, Dan Hayes, Propaganda DJs and Across The Tracks DJs. For the fifth year running, we are opening our doors to you lovely Bestivalites on Thursday and, for our 10th birthday, we’ve got even more top-drawer behaviour than ever before with a jam-packed line-up in the Big Top that includes the amazing M.I.A., Justin Robertson, The Correspondents, Mark Jones, Sunday Best Forum Allstars, Kitty Daisy & Lewis, Bike To Bestival, Courtney Pine, and our Druids Opening Ceremony, all hosted by Peter Tautz The Right Toastmaster The Replay With Rob da Bank stage, will also kick off on Thursday night, with upfront sounds from the aforementioned Mixhell, Tythe, Man Without Country, East India Youth, Dog Is Dead and Feeling Gloomy. But that’s not all, as there will be plenty of seafaring shenanigans across the site and a whole host of stages also open including The Knees-Up Tent, Grand Palace Of Entertainment, Tomorrow's World, The Bandstand, Temple Island, Club Dada and the Polka Tent.

If you still haven’t arranged your travel to join us at Robin Hill Country Park on the Isle of Wight, then now is the best time to book your ferry, as there are some great deals available from both Red Funnel and Wightlink, but hurry because they won’t be there forever...

Red Funnel Isle of Wight ferries are offering 15% OFF ferry travel with all Bestival ticket and ferry travel packages when booking through http://iow.me/5 or by calling 0844 844 9988 before 31 July 2013.

Wightlink’s Bestival ‘Early Bird’ packages, including entry, camping and return ferry travel, cost from £201.85pp (or £211.85pp arriving on Thursday) for foot passengers and £856.70 (£214.18pp) (or £896.70

John Newman

Pete Tong

Simian Mobile Disco (£224.18pp) arriving on Thursday) for a car and four people.

Packages are available via http://iow.me/6 or call 0871 376 1000. Speaking of hurrying, if you want to add a luxurious touch to your Bestival experience in our premium camping area The Wild Copse, time is running out as there are literally just a few tickets left if you want to get in there, you know what to do.

And it’s last call for our ticket payment plan too... Up until July 26th you can still get a ticket on a 5 week payment plan, which means your Bestival ticket will cost £38 per week for Thursday entry and £36 for Friday entry.

Keep checking www.Bestival.net and our Facebook and Twitter for all the latest news. And don’t forget to tag your tweets #hmsbestival.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Andrew Turner Calls for Asphalt Comments to be Published

The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, has written to the Isle of Wight Council asking for comments made by ‘internal consultees’ on the controversial plans to build an asphalt plant on banks of the River Medina to be made public.

The call is supported by Cllr. John Nicholson who represents the residents of Cowes South and Northwood, the ward in which the plant would be located if it gets approval.

There is no legal requirement for the Council to publish comments made by departments of the Council (internal consultees). All submissions to the Council form part of the decision making process, but it is only comments made by external organisations and members of the public which are available on-line.

Mr Turner said : “I had a very productive meeting with Cllr.

Jonathan Bacon who understood my point entirely. People who would be affected by this development would particularly like to read the representations made by the Highways

Department – as those staff were shortly afterwards transferred into the employment of Island Roads.

The company obviously has a huge interest in the asphalt plant going ahead and some people have told me they feel that may represent a conflict of interests.

Although I am sure that officers have acted even-handedly – the easiest way to put people’s minds at rest is to publish the information.”

Cllr. Nicholson added : “The asphalt plant is something that residents in Northwood and Cowes are very concerned about and many people have told me of their worries. I have discussed this at some length with Andrew and I believe the comments submitted by everybody should put on-line so that we all know what has been said and there can be no suspicion that anything untoward has gone on. This is an important issue and I will also be raising it with Cllr. Bacon. I very much hope that we can get this matter resolved soon to everybody’s satisfaction.”

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Ofsted: School improvement arrangements on the Isle of Wight 'unfit for purpose' The support and challenge provided to local schools by the first two councils visited under a new Ofsted inspection regime were branded as 'ineffective'.

The verdicts follow five-day inspections of local authority arrangements for school improvement carried out last month in Norfolk and the Isle of Wight. These local authorities were chosen for assessment under a new inspection framework amid concerns about the poor quality of education being offered by too many schools in the two areas.

Ofsted found that on the Isle of Wight, inspectors criticised the poor corporate and strategic leadership as well as an uncoordinated approach to school improvement that had resulted in a large proportion of ‘inadequate’ or ‘requires improvement’ schools.

Inspectors found that 'a lack of rigour in monitoring and challenge, mostly due to poor use of performance data, means that the local authority neither knows the schools well nor intervenes early enough'. In addition, senior leaders in the best schools were not being commissioned to help weaker schools improve while evaluation of the use of specialist teachers and

consultants was 'weak'.

Ofsted has identified a number of key areas for improvement for the Isle of Wight to ensure pupils have the chance to attend a good or better school.

Commenting on the outcome of the two inspections, HM Chief Inspector, Sir Michael Wilshaw, said: 'The findings should serve as a wake-up call for those local authorities across England that are failing to get a grip on school improvement.

'The spiral of decline in school standards on the Isle of Wight has been more rapid but no less harmful to the prospects of children who live there. Two thirds of all secondary schools on the island are now judged inadequate. That is a shocking statistic and one that demands urgent action.

'If councils want to demonstrate they still have a relevant and meaningful role to play within the new educational landscape, they must act as dynamic and proactive agents for improvement.

'I am determined to continue this inspection programme into the next academic year and beyond to ensure local authorities with significant numbers of underperforming schools in their area held to account.'

Number of vehicles torched Police are appealing for information after a number of vehicles were set on fire in Newport.

The incidents occurred between 2am and 3.30am on Saturday, 27 July. Police and Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service attended the scenes and initial enquiries indicate that it was a deliberate act.

Two vehicles were set alight whilst parked in Drill Hall Road car park in Newport, subsequent damage was also caused to vehicles parked nearby.

A further two vehicles were set alight in nearby Alexandra Lane and a motorbike parked in nearby Lugley Street had its fuel and coolant lines stolen, which is also believed to be linked.

Many of the vehicles involved were owned by holiday makers

who had clothing and possessions in the vehicles at the time.

A 17-year-old man is in custody at Newport Police Station.

Anyone with any information or witnessed or found anything suspicious in the vicinity of the crime, or has had damage to their vehicle or property in the area, please contact DC Vici Hayward at Newport Police Station on 101 or calling Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Police appeal after safe and cash stolen from charity shop Police are appealing for information following a burglary at an RSPCA charity shop in Freshwater on the Isle of Wight.

Sometime between 1.30pm on Saturday, July 20 and 9.45am on Monday, July 22 the shop, which is located in Avenue Road, Freshwater, has been entered and a safe containing around £400 as well as a £40 worth of cash from a charity box has been stolen.

The safe is described as dark grey in colour and approx 18ins by 12ins.

If anyone witnessed anything suspicious in the area during those dates or has any details which may assist the police with their investigation please contact PC Mark Allen of Newport DCID by phoning 101.

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

Patients will benefit from new electronic database

Crippled Motor-Cruiser Gets a tow from Cowes RNLI Lifeboat A 40 foot motor-cruiser which sought help through Solent Coastguards after reporting engine failure, was eventually towed into Cowes by the local RNLI lifeboat.

The motor-cruiser, Mi Gemm, with four persons aboard, was in Thorness Bay when problem was reported. The lifeboat,

with Patrick Moreton at the helm, was launched just after midday and was soon on the scene.

Ian steps up career ladder

Ian Evans, a vehicle glass technician at the Isle of Wight branch of National Windscreens at Rink Road Industrial Estate, Ryde, has been presented with his NVQ2 award in automotive glazing after qualifying through the company-wide training scheme.

Ian, aged 37, has been with the company over three years and is among many who are benefitting from the staff training scheme which covers the company’s 35 branches in the South and West regions.

Ian is married with four

children and says his latest qualification will help him further his career within the company with the ultimate aim of becoming a supervisor.

The NVQ qualifications help staff further their careers and maintain the high quality assurance standards which awardwinning National Windscreens offers its customers. National Windscreens Regional Operations Manager Adrian Anson said: “We would like to congratulate Ian on the success which he achieved through his own hard work and commitment.”

Isle of Wight patients needing emergency care on the mainland will benefit from NHS staff having quicker, easier access to important information about them. The NHS Summary Care Record, which is being introduced across England, is a secure electronic record containing key health information about a patient’s medication, allergies and any previous bad reactions to medicines.

This information can make a significant difference to ensuring safe treatment in an emergency when no other information is available and in emergency situations can save lives.

Currently, through the Vision 360 system, Isle of Wight healthcare professionals can securely view health information for patients they are caring for, who are registered with an Island GP. The Summary Care Record system will enable mainland healthcare providers to do the same, but they will only have access to a very limited set of key health information, as described above.

Patients have the right to opt out of having a Summary Care Record by completing a form included in the letter being sent during August to all patients in the Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) area – using the Freepost envelope provided.

Islanders will have 12 weeks in which to exercise their option to opt out before the system goes live. The

NHS has a legal duty to write to all patients individually so some households will receive several letters.

Safeguards for patients who decide to have a record include healthcare staff having to ask their permission before a record can be viewed, and access being restricted to staff with a chipand-pin NHS smartcard, who are involved in a patient’s treatment.

Unlike paper records, an audit trail is generated each and every time a record is viewed, so anyone who accesses a patient’s record can be identified. No other information will be added to a record without the patient's explicit consent.

Dr John Partridge, Clinical Director and GP Executive, from Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “The Summary Care Record provides quick access to patient’s medical history and in an emergency time is of the essence.

Being able to find out relevant information about current medication, for example, enables clinicians to provide the safest care possible, as quickly as possible. The Summary Care Record is also of great benefit for more routine medical matters, as every clinician involved in a patient’s care will be able to have swift access to the most up-todate medical records possible.”

More information can be found on the Summary Care Records website at http://iow.me/4 or from the national helpline on 0300 123 3020.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

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Isle of Wight Studio Glass re-opens at Arreton Barns Isle of Wight Studio Glass has announced that it will soon be welcoming visitors to its new premises at Arreton Barns. The famous Island business is currently in the process of relocating and will have retail and exhibition space open to the public later this summer. Glass production will start in the autumn once the furnaces have been installed into the new studio.

Following the acquisition of the company by Richard Harris, younger brother of the founder, the late Michael Harris, this family with over 50 years’ experience of glassmaking is now working towards re-establishing the firm on the Isle of Wight, together with Michael’s son Timothy Harris.

“Our move is an exciting development in the long history of the company and a fantastic opportunity for us to re-invent ourselves,” said Timothy Harris.

“The owners of the Barns have finished before being available to world and we aim to ensure that the company has done for over 40 been talking to us over the past purchase. Tim added: “We are they are delighted with our future years, but keep an eye out for one six months and we’ve appreciated fortunate to have fans of Isle of ranges. We’ll strive to use glass in or two surprises that we have up their help in making this move to Wight Studio Glass all around the creative and innovative ways, as our sleeves!”

Arreton possible. We’ve found an ideal new home for Isle of Wight Studio Glass.”

The Grand Auction at Arreton marine environment in a sociable Barns in June was part of a An RYA Active Marina Cruise and safe way whilst offering commitment to create new studio from Hamble to Yarmouth on the 21st July was a particularly informal access to an experienced and retail opportunities for Isle of and extremely helpful RYA Wight artists and craftsmen. Isle special day for young motor boater Nancy Coates, when she instructor,” he says. of Wight Studio Glass will be the Nancy “My family and I had a fabulous first to occupy one of the large won a 2.5hp outboard engine that day and we would all thoroughly new buildings, which have now was offered as a prize from event recommend the programme. We been cleared. Andrew and Jane supporter Suzuki, for the best had a great day thanks and special Gibbs, owners of Arreton Barns fancy dressed boat and crew.

Seven year old Nancy, from thanks to Andy for making it so” commented: “Welcoming Isle of A programme of Active Marina Wight Studio Glass to Arreton is a Speedy Blue, who was on the cruise in her father’s RIB, was events is taking place in marinas milestone for us. Our energy has across the south, and indeed the been focused on building an dressed as a pirate.

Credit: IW Council “I'm so delighted that my daddy whole UK, to get boat owners and environment where Island arts and . their boating. crews fired up about crafts can thrive. We’re proud to is happy because I have won an Nancy engine,” she said.

“When we get a Another Dry-Stack cruise, for the be supporting a family-run bigger boat we are going to use it MDL Marinas whose boats are business such as our own.”

Since moving into the new space for a tender which will be great their Solent crossing with easterly stored ashore in the Dry-Stack at at Arreton earlier this month, fun!" said Nancy. She added ““I force 5 winds decreasing in the Hamble, is planned to Ryde Harbour on 21st September.

Richard and Timothy have been love going on my daddy’s boat afternoon. and going to fun places like the Andy Cross was the RYA For more information about the working tirelessly to build a new studio. Equipment for grinding Isle of Wight for fish and chips.” Instructor, from Marine Matters, RYA Active Marina Programme Nancy's dad said “Nancy was who accompanied the fleet. He visit http://iow.me/3 and polishing glass will be installed first, followed by the very chuffed to have won but said “In my experience, these Love Boating? Then why not cruises are join the association that promotes furnace. Parts from the two probably not as chuffed as I am!” accompanied Boat owners from the ‘Dry-Stack’ invaluable in helping people and protects, safe, successful and existing furnaces will be used to produce one state-of-the-art at MDL Hamble Point Marina and expand their cruising horizons rewarding British boating. Join furnace at Arreton. A well-stocked their families enjoyed the cruise and visit new places on the water. today and support the RYA in retail space for visitors will be across the Solent while brushing They have a lot of fun, and often protecting your boating rights and open within the next couple of up on their boating skills at the make new friends and learn a few freedoms. Take advantage of free months with the full range of same time with the help of Andy boating tips along the way. All in advice and support on all aspects of your boating, as well as glassware going into creative Cross, an RYA Instructor from all we had a great day out.”

Matters, who Neil Coates described the enjoying a range of fantastic production sometime later in the Marine benefits of the RYA Active Marina personal member offers. Find out autumn of 2013. There will also accompanied the fleet.

The cruising motor boats enjoyed Programme.

“It’s a brilliant more by calling 0844 556 9556, be a viewing area for members of opportunity to explore your local or visit http://iow.me/3 the public to watch the glass a warm and sunny day during being blown, decorated and

Young pirate wins suzuki outboard for her dad

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Island beaches to take part in national scheme Two award-winning Isle of Wight beaches have been chosen to be part of a major Environment Agency (EA) pilot scheme. The project by the EA is aimed at improving the monitoring of water quality and how the public is then informed.

The pilot scheme, which will take place on Cowes and Shanklin beaches and involves 30 beaches country-wide, predicts when so called 'short term' pollution may occur in bathing waters.

Short-term pollution, which lasts no more than 72 hours, has clear causes such as rainfall or water run off into the sea and can be predicted to affect the quality of bathing water.

Predictions are based on rainfall measurements and are very similar to weather forecasts.

Should there be a chance of short term pollution occurring, warning signs are then put up at the beach.

People using the beaches at Cowes and Shanklin will then be able to see when the water quality

is likely to be lower than normal.

By 2015, all Island beaches will face tougher standards for water quality due to the revised European Bathing Water standards.

If successful, the new scheme will be extended to other bathing areas during the 2014 season.

Councillor Shirley Smart, cabinet member for tourism and economy said: "We are very proud of our beaches which are amongst best in the country and a major attraction for visitors and residents alike.

"By telling people about the times a deterioration in water quality may happen underlines the council’s commitment to keeping the public safe and we are acting responsibly to monitor any change to our sea water quality.”

In May, 13 beaches maintained by the Isle of Wight Council won four Blue Flags and 13 Seaside Awards. The total of 17 awards means the Isle of Wight is number one in the country for the amount of award winning beaches.

Cowes Seafront

Decision to not extend Coastal Access on the Island welcomed Following the consultation that started in July 2012 the Government has decided that it will not be making an order for the Isle of Wight under section 300 of the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009. Government does not consider the Isle of Wight to be a priority for the coastal access programme but has suggested that voluntary agreements with local landowners and the local authority should be the way forward.

CLA regional director Belinda Walters said: “The Island already has an excellent coastal path of

some 67 miles. To have extended the coastal access provisions under the Marine and Coastal Access Act would have resulted in Natural England duplicating that existing work, and clearly government has decided that, in these times of financial restraint, there is better use of public money than spending it replicating something we already have. We will encourage landowners to work with the local authority on voluntary agreements that enhance the existing coastal access on the Island resulting in a locally managed solution.”

Shanklin Seafront

listen online at

wightislandradio.com

Nursery children present royal gift Three children from Tops Day Nursery, based at the Isle of Wight College, have presented a ‘royal’ bear to the first baby born at St Mary’s Hospital’s maternity unit after Prince William and Kate Middleton’s baby boy arrived.

Pre-schoolers Ethan, Jack and Jasmine presented their Tops bear, complete with a crown and card, to the new born, who was born just hours after the prince, to mark his ‘royal’ welcome into the world.

HILL FARM STABLES Riding School and Pony Club Centre 01983 752502 or 07748 253899 www.hillfarmstables.com

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Two new therapists for the Island Ecotherapy Centre The Hampton Trust Ecotherapy Centre is celebrating the arrival of two new therapists following a generous donation of £24,000 from the William Wates Foundation. The William Wates Foundation was established following the tragic death of one of their family members and it aims to provide funding to help young people improve their life chances.

The island Ecotherapy Centre, based in Shide, was the brain child of Dr Kim Brown who initially developed the Centre through grants from Natural England and MND. The aim of Ecotherapy is to provide mental nutrition for children and adults by helping them connect with themselves and others through the natural world.

The two new donkey therapists will have a specific role at the centre in the Leo Programme which is helping young people understand about caring and nurturing through involvement with horses and donkeys. Dr Kim Brown explains ‘it is important for all of us to understand our own behaviour and how this impacts on lives as well as the lives of others.

We all demonstrate patterns of behaviour, and as such often get the same results. Donkeys can be a catalyst for giving us insight into our actions and thoughts to help move away from negative outcomes.

They do this by reflecting back human emotions and behaviour through their body

Credit Isle of Wight Council

language making it easy to observe the impact of our actions. So, they are ideal therapists for helping young people understand and care for themselves and others.’

If you are interested in helping to name the new donkeys then please visit The Leo Programme Facebook page and post up your ideas. If you would like more information about Ecotherapy or the Leo Programme then please contact Dr Kim Brown on kim.brown@hamptontrust.org.uk. If you would like to volunteer at the centre contact charlotte.mallows@hamptontrust.org.uk.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Statement on Ofsted Report from the Island’s MP The Island’s MP Andrew Turner has made the following statement about the Ofsted report issued yesterday on the Isle of Wight Council’s arrangements for supporting school improvement.

“We must not beat about the bush - this report makes shameful reading. It makes it only too clear that the change-over to the two tier system was badly planned and poorly implemented and that this is responsible for so many of our schools now being found needing improvement or failing. There is simply no excuse for the Island’s education system to languish near the bottom of national league tables. Many other areas face far greater challenges, such as a high number of children unable to speak English and a high ‘churn’ of families moving in and out of their area, but their Education Authorities are able to achieve better results.

“However, whatever has happened in the past, the most important issue facing the Island now is how to move forward.

The Council has no greater responsibility than educating the Island’s young people and preparing them for their working lives so we cannot let any more young people be failed by the Island’s education system.

I know that Cllr. Richard Priest, the Independent cabinet member, is working well with the well respected Hampshire Children’s Services and other parties, including Cllr. Chris Whitehouse, the Conservative Education Spokesman, to improve the service that the Council gives our schools; this has also been recognised by Ofsted. I will support them all the way in the challenges they face and will be holding regular meetings with them to work through the issues.

This report recognises that in the last few months there have been movements in the right direction and we must build on them.

“Ofsted will inspect the Council again in nine to twelve months time to see how the service is progressing. I believe they will find improvements; not least because everybody is now pulling together effectively. We need the support of education professionals, school governors, parents and the Island community as a whole to ensure that Island children get the start in life they are entitled to. We should not lose sight of the fact that we have some good and outstanding

schools and Ofsted knows that they can play a key role in helping other schools to improve. We are already seeing some examples of that with the recent announcement that Christ the King College is to take over the leadership of Newport CofE Primary School in the new school year.

“Councillors, like MPs, are held to account through the ballot box by their electorate – and of course that has happened. But officers are a different matter. I have no problem with a two tier system in principle, but when the proposal to change the Island’s schools was consulted on I believed that senior officers in the Education Authority did not have the ability or capacity to deliver the reorganisation effectively, which is why I publicly opposed their plans. The proof of how poor those officers actually were is only now emerging – and it is even worse than I feared. I am looking into whether anything can be done to hold those responsible to account.

“The Council certainly has some very good officers – but they have been led by people who clearly were not up to the job. Steve Beynon was responsible for education from January 2007 until he left the Island a few months ago; he most certainly has a great deal to answer for. It is hard to believe that even now he is touting for business as an education consultant elsewhere. I am writing to the Secretary of State for Education about this.”

Suspended IW Council officers given the all clear A turn-around for the Isle of Wight council as they say suspended officers had nothing to do with the school’s delayed opening.

Dave Burbage, Isle of Wight Council managing director and strategic director of resources, said: “The council recognises that there were a number of shortcomings in the delivery of the Cowes Enterprise College building. This was because of a range of differing reasons and circumstances.

“Two members of staff were suspended in November 2012 as a precautionary measure pending the outcome of an internal investigation into the management of the contract. It has been concluded that, although there were undoubted delays and issues that arose, the two suspended officers were not responsible for the shortcomings in the project or for any wrongdoing. In these circumstances the two members of staff who were suspended are no longer the subject of any further investigation or action.

“In addition the council

recognises that this has been a long, stressful and protracted process for the two individuals concerned and that issues related to the way the suspension and other matters were handled is likely to result in cases being taken through an employment tribunal process.

“There is now a need to bring this matter to an early conclusion and bearing in mind the potential costs of defending the cases at tribunal and the costs of any potentially successful claims for compensation, it has been agreed by the two individuals and the council that a settlement is made. “The council has devoted considerable efforts to ensuring that the Cowes Enterprise College building is fit for purpose and that it is available to handover to the Trust as soon as practicable.

This will happen in September this year. “The council will need to learn from what has happened in this case and will be reviewing its processes and procedures.”

Medina Leisure Centre Summer Activities With the school summer holidays well underway, Medina Leisure Centre is hosting a range of activities over the next month.

We'll bring you info on each activity as they get closer.

To start with, why not try archery? A session is being held on 2 August and also on 16 August from 2pm till 3pm. The age limit is 12 - 16yrs and costs £4 a session. All equipment is provided and there are qualified

coaches on hand.

Booking is advised, please contact the centre.

For the younger ones (age 8 13yrs) there is a mega-size bouncy castle and large trampolines available between 2.30pm and 4pm on every Thursday (1, 8, 15, 22, 29 August). The cost is £4.50 a session and booking is advised.

Please be advised children are not allowed to wear jeans.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 2nd August 2013

Solent delegates have their say on how €43m EU funds should be spent More than 120 delegates from businesses and organisations across the public and voluntary sectors gave their views on how €43m of European Union funding should be spent in the Solent in the next seven years.

The event held at the Ageas Bowl by the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) on Monday July 22, is part of a broad consultation to help develop a strategy to make the most of the available funds. The money from the EU Structural and Investment Fund is designed to drive growth in the region between 2014 and 2020.

Chris Evans from the University of Exeter launched the consultation after presentations from Solent LEP Chief Executive Anne-Marie Mountifield, Industry Liaison Officer from the Southampton Marine and Maritime Institute Kevin Forshaw and David Morrall from the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Delegates discussed where they thought the money would be best spent across a range of sectors including skills, SMEs, innovation, low carbon, employment, ICT and social

inclusion. The debate produced a wide range of views and opinions, which will now be collated by the LEP and used to inform production of the strategy.

Doug Morrison, Solent LEP Chairman, said: “We had a fantastic turnout of local people keen to help influence how this money is spent for best effect in our region.

“The feedback we received today is exactly what we need to deliver a targeted programme of investment that tackles the Solent’s issues and promotes growth.”

The consultation is far from over.

For those that could not attend the event, the Solent LEP has arranged for an online survey to enable the entire community to register their views. Complete the survey and have your say on the EU Investment strategy on the following link: www.survey.exeter.ac.uk/fundings olent In addition, a second consultation event is currently being planned for Solent stakeholders to help shape the emerging strategy. The details of a second event will be announced shortly on www.solentlep.org.uk

Fundraising event for Island medical aid charity On thr 29th September, teams of wheelchair users and able-bodied pushers, together with solo wheelchair and mobility scooter users will make the journey from Cowes to Newport along the Old Railway cycle path in aid of MAD-Aid . The event, named “Push-the-Wight” will help fund the transport of second-hand medical equipment and mobility aids to hospitals in Moldova which are very poorly equipped

by UK standards.

MAD-Aid saves money for both the Earl Mountbatten Hospice and St Mary’s Hospital by taking their unwanted medical equipment and furniture away for FREE! This equipment and furniture normally has to be disposed of commercially at considerable expense. However, MAD-Aid can transport it directly to the hospitals in Eastern Europe where it is so badly needed.

The shipping costs of around £5000 per 2000-mile trip are currently raised solely through donations and events like Pushthe-Wight. The funds for every

trip have to be raised from scratch. Push-the-Wight will support our third shipment.

How can you help?

We are passionate about keeping this vital service going, helping save money for the Hospice and the NHS, and improving the standard of equipment in Moldovan hospitals. We rely completely on our volunteers and supporters.

If Push-the-Wight, and the work we do has captured your imagination, we would very much appreciate your help. There are several ways to support us: You could promote the event among your colleagues and associates.

You could sponsor a push – our entrants will be seeking sponsors.

You could join our volunteer team for the day.

You could send a donation. Each shipping mile costs £2.50, so £25 pays for 10 miles, £50 pays for 20 miles, and £100 pays for 40 miles.

Coppins Bridge site will get a Facelift For many years the site of the former Shoulder of Mutton pub in South Street, Newport has been a source of frustration for local councillors, residents and visitors to the County Town. The more recent demolition of the properties on Coppins Bridge has exacerbated the problem, creating a bigger eyesore.

Continuing an established collaboration creating public art, between Clatterford Tuition Centre, Newport Parish Council and Isle of Wight Council environment officers, the site will benefit from an injection of imagination. Moreys has also generously supported the project with the materials needed.

A border of images depicting the Newport skyline will appear on the perimeter of the area, distracting the eye from the building site. Clatterford students led by Juliet Lainson have been

engaged in taking photographs of Newport and have learnt the process of turning them into stencils for the border. It has given them the opportunity to explore the idea of “community”, the impact of anti-social behaviour and how art can help create a sense of place.

Funded by Newport Parish Council, the idea was developed by the Newport Local Action Group and local councillors Julie Jones-Evans, Jane Perry and Matthew Price. Councillor JonesEvans said: “It is common practice that building sites in towns and cities are surrounded by images to enhance the environment. Building on the success of the other public art projects with Clatterford, has meant that the students get the chance to improve the town while gaining valuable insights for themselves with everyone benefiting from the result.”

Isle of Wight Sports