Issue 15 - The Isle of Wight Mail

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LAST CHANCE

Bestival about to sell out Bestival Traffic Information

Bestival: The Art of Dressing Up

Comedy Comes to Bestival 2013

As Bestival’s 10th Birthday Spectacular draws ever closer - this coming September 5th-8th - we’re spreading even more love across over a mighty twenty stages in ten fields of wonderment, filled with non-stop parties and 24hr escapism. Page 15

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ISSUE NUMBER 15 Friday 30th August 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

WORKS PROGRESS IN COWES HARBOUR

Work is well underway this week in Cowes Harbour on ground investigations of the seabed which will provide important geotechnical data to each of the five short-listed companies competing to win the prestigious contract for the construction of the new Cowes breakwater.

Harbour Master at Cowes, Capt.

Stuart McIntosh, said: “It’s an exciting time for Cowes Harbour Commission as these ground investigations, recommended by our engineering consultants Atkins, represent the final piece of field work that is needed to enable a full tendering process for the breakwater build.”

The unusual sight of a “jack-up barge” can now be observed at the entrance to Cowes Harbour, working around the clock drilling for core samples. Five boreholes are being drilled into the seabed, of between 20 to 35 metres deep.

There may be some noise generated due to the dynamic sampling method and according to

the type of substrata encountered - mainly soft silty alluvial clays overlying stiffer shelly clays with limestone bands. Once the boreholes have been drilled successfully, a series of “cone penetration tests” will be carried out and samples sent off for laboratory testing.

Stuart McIntosh continued: “We anticipate any disruption to be short-term and generally confined to the first week of operation, ending this Sunday, and we are making every effort to minimise any resulting noise problems. The whole process is expected to be completed by Thursday, 5 September.

“I’d very much like to thank harbour users and local residents for their support during these essential field works, which are the next step towards providing Cowes Harbour with a 400 metre long breakwater that will give marine vessels and the local area vital protection from high winds and tidal pressures.”

Concerns for missing 15 year old Police are becoming increasingly concerned for a 15-year-old girl missing from her home address in Sandown, Isle of Wight.

Jessica Stevens has been missing from her home address since the early hours of Thursday 29th August 2013.

Officers are keen to hear from Jessica or anyone who knows her. She was last seen wearing leopard print bottoms, blue plimsolls and a pink hooded top.

Jessica is described as: White, 4ft 9ins tall, Slim build, Short brown hair and wears glasses

PS Rickman of Shanklin Police Station said: “We are becoming increasingly concerned for Jessica’s welfare and want to ensure she is safe and well.

“We would ask anyone who has seen her or anyone who knows where her is to contact us as soon as possible.

“We are also appealing directly to Jessica to come forward and let us know she is okay.”

Anyone with information can contact Newport DCID by phoning 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning Crimestoppers on 0800555111

Too much time in front of screens Too much time in front of screens – including TV and computer games – combined with a sedentary lifestyle is taking its toll on our children’s wellbeing according to a new PHE briefing paper. The paper, ‘How healthy behaviour supports children’s wellbeing’, identifies a link between children’s screen time and lower levels of wellbeing, showing that higher levels of TV viewing are have a negative effect on children’s wellbeing and lower levels of selfreported happiness.

Children who spend more time on computers, watching TV and playing video games tend to experience higher levels of emotional distress, anxiety and depression. The paper is released as a new Change4Life campaign encourages families to use the back to school period to adopt healthier behaviours – one of which is reducing children’s screen time. ‘Smart Restart’ outlines 5 everyday changes for families to focus on for the next 6 weeks to half term, including reducing screen time & eating healthy lunches.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Funding Success for Company Cowes based company STRUCTeam Ltd, is set to receive a grant from the Regional Growth Fund (RGF).

Headed by Managing Director, Julien Sellier, STRUCTeam specialise in structures involving composite materials. They are a rapidly growing company with an international client base aiming to become a world leader in providing structural and composite engineering services.

Mr Sellier commented: “This funding award confirms that for the last three years we have been on the right path. The fund’s criteria fit well with our needs and objectives at this stage. That is why we applied to the Regional Growth Fund at the end of March this year. We still need to complete the process and are about to sign conditioned engagement letter prior to the Due Diligence process to take place.

“We started the company in 2010 with a team of 3 people, which has now grown to 16. Ninety per cent of our business is international, raising the profile of the Island overseas and contributing to the Island’s economy. This funding will provide the boost the company needs, and should result in substantial job creation”.

Last year STRUCTeam won the New Business Award in the Chamber of Commerce Awards for

Excellence. They also received a commendation in the International Business Award category. Various sources of Government funding are available to help the private sector to create or protect jobs by investing in and strengthening their business.

STRUCTeam’s bid was one of 109 selected from across the country to receive support in Round 4 of the RGF. In June a further £156 million was allocated to the Regional Growth Fund and Ministers are currently considering the scope and timings of Round 5 of the RGF and announcements will be made in the autumn.

The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, commented: “This is great news for STRUCTeam and I am sure, with the help of this funding, they will continue go from strength to strength, employing more people and helping to build the Island’s economy.

“Island businesses are mainly small companies and if they have plans which would create new jobs or protect existing ones I would encourage them to look into the various sources of Government funding. There is a competitive process to go through but as STRUCTeam’s success has shown a well planned good project can attract significant financial support.”

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Sainsbury’s gets it in the bag and supports their local community Sainsbury’s Newport Isle of Wight has presented its local Bembridge Angling Club with a Community Grant for £100.00 worth of Foods for their Charity BBQ Evening.celebrating their 50th Anniversary. With all proceeds going to the RNLI. This will help to raise funds for the local RNLI The donation came about after the local Bembridge Angling Club wished to raise funds for the local RNLI that provide a vital role for the Angling Club with rescue operations.

Derek Ohren of Bembridge Angling Club said “The event was organised by the Bembridge angling club to celebrate its 50th anniversary, it was decided to incorporate it with a fund raising event for the RNLI, also to organises a fund raising fishing competition for the club.

“It was a great response from club members and family to support this event, with local brewery Yates, and many other local companies all helping to support this cause, it had a great

turn out of over a 100 people with music from the 60’s,70’s,80’s, with the support of our main sponsors Sainsbury’s this was truly a success.”

The Sainsbury’s Community Grant scheme, helping charitable groups in the local community, is funded by sales of ‘Bags for Life’. So for customers at Sainsbury’s Newport Isle of Wight buying a ‘Bag for Life’, this means that they are not only doing great things for the environment, but are also making a contribution to their local community.

Sainsbury’s Newport Isle of Wight Store Manager, Paul Dyer said: “Our store is at the heart of the local community and it is important that we can do as much as we can to from left to right: David Gawn (Bo'sun) Tanya Blake PR Ambassador support it. When we heard about Sainsbury's, John Burns (Vice Chairman).

Bembridge Angling Club we were really pleased to be able to help out.” Last year alone the ---------------------------------------------------------------Community Grants scheme provided £135k worth of donations, nominated by store managers and ---------------------------------------------------------------colleagues from stores nation wide.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Playing Politics on Syria condemned Andrew Turner has accused some people of 'playing politics' in suggesting that Prime Minister David Cameron MP was badly weakened last night when the House of Commons voted against launching missile strikes against Syria. The Island's MP was one of 30 Conservative MPs who voted against the Government motion, which included calls for a strong humanitarian response to the use of chemical weapons in Damascus to include military action if necessary.

The motion was defeated by 285 to 272 votes; a majority of thirteen.

Speaking this morning Mr Turner said “It is thoroughly distasteful to see a number of politicians and commentators trying to present this as some sort of victory for other political parties.

“I have absolutely no doubt that the Prime Minister believed sincerely that military intervention would have been the best way forward; but he was also aware

there was deep disquiet on the back-benches. He could have acted without recalling Parliament, but instead the motion was worded to try to unite MPs and he decided to seek support for that position. Unlike Tony Blair, he did not use 'dodgy dossiers' to claim things that were untrue.

The Prime Minister said in advance that he would accept the will of the elected House of Commons, he said that MPs had to use their judgement, and immediately the motion was lost he accepted defeat with dignity and grace. Those trying to score cheap political points from one of the most serious situations this country has faced for years are not acting with such honour.

“Those who are claiming there was a seismic shift in political life last night are right only in one respect. David Cameron clearly showed his respect for parliamentary democracy.

For that he should be applauded.”

Rehabilitation Unit Summer Fayre The Rehabilitation Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital, Newport, Isle of Wight is holding a Summer Fayre on Saturday 31st August between 1.00p.m. and 4.00p.m..

The event will be held in the garden area adjacent to the Rehabilitation Unit which is at the north or top end of the hospital site. The event will be signposted from the hospital duck pond and there will be free parking in the new 194 space car park.

Sister Natalie Mew from the Rehabilitation Unit said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming the friends and family of all current patients and staff as well as those who have been rehabilitation patients or visited the Unit or worked on the ward in recent years. The funds raised will be used to help

maintain our garden for the benefit of patients.” Activities planned for the event include: Irish dancing, Bouncy castle, Games, Face painting, Raffle, Refreshments and an Ice cream van The 26 bedded Rehabilitation Unit supports over 500 patients each year to achieve a full recovery following trauma, elective surgery or medical illness. If a full recovery is not possible the unit enables people to optimise their physical, mental and social potential in order to return home or to the most appropriate environment.

The majority of services provided by IW NHS Trust are commissioned and funded by IW Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), NHS England and Isle of Wight Council.

OUR TOP TWO GET THE CHANCE OF INDIVIDUAL GLORY The Wightlink Islanders top two of Tom Perry and Adam Ellis will both be gunning for individual glory in three weeks time when they compete in the National League Riders Championship at Rye House on Saturday September 21.

They are included in the sixteen rider line up in the prestigious meeting, sponsored by the nearby Paradise Wildlife Park, all of whom will be looking to finish top of the pile and thus be crowned THE No.1 rider in this

year's National League.

QUALIFIERS: Charles Wright, Liam Carr (Buxton); Joe Jacobs, Robert Branford (Coventry); Paul Starke, Lewis Blackbird, Ashley Morris (Dudley); Steve Boxall, Ben Morley (Kent); Tom Perry, Adam Ellis (Isle of Wight); Robert Lambert, Lewis Kerr (King’s Lynn); Stefan Nielsen, Jon Armstrong .

(Mildenhall); Steve Worrall (Stoke).

Reserves: Jack Kingston, Shane Hazelden.

Ventnor Botanic Garden Friends’ Society Plants & Produce Autumn Sale Celebrating the changing seasons and beginning of the autumn months, Ventnor Botanic Garden Friends’ Society will be holding an Autumn Plants and Produce sale on the 15th September.

The Sale will take place on the Top Lawn at Ventnor Botanic Garden, entry is completely free and there are no additional charges for parking. The sale begins at 10.30am and will run until 4pm.

The Friends are asking their members and friends to bring plants, seeds, seasonal fruit, jams, chutneys and other baked goods for sale and chef, Martyn Cutler, will be donating some of his popular cakes. In addition, all the plants from the Ventnor Botanic Garden sales area will be offered and there will be some great bargains!

There will also be a chance to talk to members of the Friends’

Society and learn about the great work they do supporting the Garden.

Rosemary Stewart, Secretary of the Friends’ Society, commented, ‘We hope this sale will raise vital funds to aid the Friends’ Society in all that they do, from developing Ventnor Botanic Garden further to bringing school groups to benefit from the facilities and learn about nature and their environment. Visitors

can learn more about the Volunteering roles and other opportunities available, supported by the Friends’ Society.’

DONATE If you would like to donate any plants, seeds, baked goods or anything else you think would make a great addition to the sale please contact Rosemary Stewart on (01983) 292107 or 07779477101.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013 Isle of Wight Mail – February 2012

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Economy Experts to visit the Island Experts from the New Economics Foundation are to visit the Island in a few weeks time for an open discussion with business owners, particularly from the small and medium sized sector.

The meeting will take place at the Riverside Centre, Newport on September 27th,,starting at 11am.

The initiative is the brainchild of the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner: “There are encouraging signs that the UK economy is returning to growth; the Island must not miss out. I want to make sure that our small businesses, so vital to job creation, particularly for our youngsters, are given support by me and other local politicians. I have therefore invited leading experts on the special problems and opportunities faced by rural economies like the Island to share their knowledge and experience with us. I would like to invite interested business leaders and others to come along. “I see this as the start of a major initiative to help our

small business community to grow and invest as the economy recovers. The New Economics Foundation has a first class reputation for creative thinking and innovative solutions – the Island also has a history of that.

For my part, I am keen to think about and discuss different ways in which the Government and other players can support and encourage a peripheral economy off the coast of England.”

The experts from the New Economics Foundation will lead discussions and share success stories on how other rural areas have taken initiatives to secure private investment and grown their local economies.

Although attendance at the meeting will be free, places will be limited and priority will be given to those who have registered their attendance in advance. The meeting will be followed by a lunch for which a small charge will be made.

Places (with or without lunch) can be booked by calling Andrew Turner’s office on 530808 or by e-mail to mail@islandmp.org.

Lifeboat launched after man breaks leg The Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat was paged on the 27th August They were tasked for immediate launch by the Solent Coastguard to a man with a broken leg on the shore in severe pain opposite the clock-tower on Shanklin Esplanade.

The Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat was first on scene and the crew administered first aid.

A paramedic arrived and the Ventnor Coastguard Team who

were all racing against time due to the incoming tide which was hampering the rescue operation.

The casualty was stabilised and placed on a stretcher and carried by all of the emergency services that attended to the paramedic vehicle and conveyed to St. Mary’s hospital for further Isle attention. of Wight medical The Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat crews would also like to thank the public and the long shore men that assisted in making this a quick rescue.

Did you witness a dog fight?

Police are appealing for witnesses and information following after receiving a report of a dog being injured by another dog on Appley beach in Ryde, Isle of Wight on Thursday, August 29, 2013.

Investigating Officer, PC Dunn from Newport Police Station said: “We are assessing an allegation of a criminal offence under section three of the Dangerous Dogs Act whereby a dog has been

dangerously out of control in a public place.

“Enquiries are underway to identify and contact the owner of the second dog accused of the attack.”

Anyone with information can contact PC Dunn at Newport DCID by phoning 101.

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

CLA backs badger cull companies The Country Land and Business Association (CLA) has backed the companies and farmers engaged in the pilot badger control operations which have now begun. CLA President Harry Cotterell said: “These pilot badger controls are a vital start to the programme to tackle and eradicate Bovine TB, a disease that is devastating to farmers, rural businesses and landowners.

“Managing bTB in badgers is an essential part of the strategy seeking to eradicate this terrible disease from livestock and wildlife in England. Bovine TB

inIsle England has already cost the of Wight taxpayer an estimated £500million in the past decade, and, without a wildlife control programme including the cull, this would rise to around £1billion over the next 10 years.”

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

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WELCOME ABOARD THE FESTIVAL OF THE SEA

Visit Isle of Wight (VIOW) is inviting local landlubbers and salty sea dogs alike to get on board and join in the fun as it celebrates the Island’s maritime history and heritage with a nineday Festival of the Sea from Saturday, September 14th to Sunday, September 22nd.

Aimed at giving out-of-season visitors more things to see and do during a September stay on the Island, it is also seen as a great opportunity for people living on the Island to get involved in a whole range of sea-themed events and nautical activities.

The so-called “Anchor” events included in this year’s Festival will include: Fishbourne Beach Arts, September 15th-22nd.

(See local artists at work in different venues around the area including Quarr Abbey, The Fishbourne Inn, The Royal Victoria Yacht Club and the Green and Beach at Fishbourne; stroll around the life-size commissioned sculptures made from original sea chain, watch seafood cookery demonstrations, take sailing lessons and play games on the beach).

Spyglass Inn Songs of the Sea & Shanty Festival, Ventnor, September 14th. (A day long celebration of sea shanties, smuggling tales and freshly caught seafood taking place in one of the Island’s most popular pubs overlooking Ventnor Bay).

Red Funnel Food Show, Cowes, September 15th. (An

event featuring inspirational cooking demonstrations by top island chefs, using local produce including the catch of the day from local fisherman.

There will be a chance to try and buy Island produced food and drink, and pick up gifts from the Isle of Wight Artisan Market).

Sea to Shore: The IW Kite Festival, Yarmouth, September 21st. (Professional kite flyers and community kites made through a summer workshop programme come together for the annual IW Kite Festival.

Stalls, guided walks, workshops and lots of flying!).

UKSA Community Fun Day, Cowes, September 22nd. (The US Sailing Academy in Cowes is opening its doors to offer a free day of a have-a-go day of sailing, windsurfing and kayaking – with taster sessions of many of their watersports).

Pirate Hover Open Day, September 22nd. (Meet the hovercraft pilot, tour the terminal and flight deck, take part in a Q&A session with the engineers, and enjoy a 20minutes pleasure trip. There will also be prizes for the best dressed pirates.

Price from Ryde - £19 per adult, £13 per child).

A raft of other “satellite” events and promotional activities are also being brought under the Festival of the Sea banner, including evening cruises to Lymington and Hurst Castle, seafaring suppers and local talks, walks and bicycle rides.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Your chance to be part of the World’s Largest Human Dinosaur As part of Visit Isle of Wight Ltd’s “Year of the Dinosaur”, holiday makers and locals alike are being invited to become part of the World’s Largest Human Dinosaur on Sunday 1st September at 2pm.

Taking place on one of the Isle of Wight’s most popular beaches – Appley beach in Ryde - hundreds of people are expected to come to the beach to form a human Pelosaurus* shape. The event will be filmed from the air and used to help promote the Island as the “Dinosaur Capital of Great Britain”.

The event is being organised by Roger Crouch who, for the past 5 years, has masterminded Pirate Day in Hastings, where the record number of ‘Pirates’ gained Hastings an entry into the Guinness Book of Records. In 2011 Roger also created the Largest Human Skull and Crossbones – a feat which drew attention around the world.

Roger said: “Come and be part of the world’s first attempt to create an unforgettable dinosaur image on the Isle of Wight and you’ll be able to say ‘I was there!’”

Other fun activities will be on

offer during the day, including Goodleaf Tree Climbing with Dinosaurs, ‘REAL’ dinosaur activity courtesy of Blackgang Chine, The Fat Samba Band, talks from local fossil experts, plus lots of great games and prizes provided by the Rotary Club of Ryde. There will even be a “best dressed dinosaur” competition, although dressing up as a dinosaur is not required in order to attend the event.

Working in conjunction with The Needles Park and Southern Vectis, Isle of Wight “Fossil Man”, Martin Simpson, and Visit Isle of Wight children’s ambassador, Daisy Morris, will be on-board a specially branded dinosaur bus, ready to answer all your dinosaurrelated questions and help support this “world-first” for the Island.

Liz Walker, Tourism Development Officer, Visit Isle of Wight, said: “I would urge as many people as possible to come along to this fantastic, free event and help us to create a truly iconic image of the Island.

“All participants are welcome, there’s no need to register – just arrive at Appley Beach before 2.00pm and join in the fun.”

MAN ROBBED IN SANDOWN Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was assaulted and robbed in Sandown on Friday, August 24.

The victim, a 42-year-old man, suffered cuts and grazes after he was pushed to the floor and had his rucksack forcibly removed from his back before the suspect ran off with it.

The rucksack contained a Black Sony Xperia Tipo Mobile phone, Black iPad 16gb, Black iPod touch 32gb, Black ‘Animal’ leather wallet containing cash as well as debit cards and a driving licence and a Grey ‘Everlast’ hoody which has a zip half way

the way up the front.

The suspect is described a white man, aged about 21 years. 5’10 – 5’11? in height, fat, shortish brown hair, side burns and stubble. He was wearing a short sleeved light blue t-shirt and shorts.

There was also a second man present during the incident. He was described as a white man, about 5’6” tall.

Anyone with information can contact Newport DCID by phoning 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

Ryde Illuminated Carnival road closures It's Ryde Illuminated Carnival on Saturday and there will be some road closures in the evening around the town.

North Walk will be closed between the Esplanade and Canoe Lake Road from 4.30pm until around 11.45pm and The Esplanade will also be closed from Dover Street to The Strand from 5.30pm until around 11.45pm.

The procession is due to leave North Walk and The Esplanade at 8.30pm and travel via Dover Street, Park Road, Star Street, High Street, St Thomas Square, Union Street and finally the Esplanade where the carnival should arrive by about 9.45pm.

Union Street will be closed from 7.45pm and will remain closed until 11.30pm for pedestrian safety reasons.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

‘Be Smart, Restart’ says NHS Chief Executive The Island’s NHS Chief Executive, Karen Baker, is encouraging all Island families to take the fresh start presented by the new school year as an opportunity to establish healthier habits – such as walking to school, incorporating short bursts of extra activity into the day, and making sure children eat a healthy lunch at school – in order to get parents and children moving more and eating more healthily.

Speaking at the Isle of Wight NHS Trust Board Meeting on 28th August, Karen said; “The new school year is an opportunity for families to press the restart button and choose and sustain healthier habits for the year ahead. People are much more likely to establish a healthy new routine if they make one small change at a time. The ‘Smart Restart’ programme, part of Change 4 Life, makes this simple, fun and easy to achieve.

“It’s possible to have a lot of fun and support good causes at the same time as well. This weekend I’m taking part in the Solent Swim to raise funds for West Wight Sports Centre. Not only am I keeping my self fit but I’m also helping the sports centre help others to do the same.”

Families tell researchers that they sometimes slip into unhealthier habits during the summer holidays, such as spending too

much time in front of the TV or computer, or indulging in too many treats. Families who sign up to ‘Smart Restart’ will be supported through a six-week engagement and incentive programme to help them to stick to their chosen healthy change all the way through to half term.

You can sign up at www.nhs.uk/Change4Life.

In 2013 the Child and Maternal Health Observatory (ChiMat) produced statistics from the National Child Measurement Programme results stating that children on the Isle of Wight have average levels of obesity: 10.4% of children aged 4-5 years and 18.0% of children aged 10-11 years are classified as obese.

51.7% of children participate in at least three hours of sport a week which is worse than the England average.

Karen continued: “It is a great concern to us in the NHS that our children and the population as a whole is becoming unfit. This can lead to problems in later life with the development of long term conditions such as diabetes. The burden on the NHS will be unsustainable unless everyone plays their part to ensure they are as fit as they can be. That doesn’t mean that you need to do some of the extreme activities that I do!

Simple regular walking at a fast

pace and eating healthy foods helps keep you fit and healthy."

Anyone wishing to sponsor Karen’s Solent Swim can do so by visiting http://iow.me/o.

‘Smart Restart’ is backed by a broad range of Change4Life partners, including retailers Asda and Aldi; the leisure sector’s representative body UK Active; Unilever’s low-fat spread Flora;

and Disney, which is providing content for the children’s microsite and a range of free activities to reward families once their ‘Smart Restart’ changes are achieved.

Advice for parents who are worried about their child’s weight can be found on the NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk/change4life.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

'LOST AT SEA' - a fantastic new arts festival Passionate about changing the face of independent festival culture, the team behind Bestival (winner of UK’s Best Major Festival 2012) and the multi-award winning Camp Bestival are proud to present something brand new and unique Lost at Sea, a free-floating arts festival on the Isle of Wight.

Featuring an exciting and eclectic programme of music, film, talks, theatre and comedy, Lost at Sea will be held in an array of distinctive venues around the UK’s most treasured island.

Rob da Bank says, “Ever since we started Bestival a decade ago we've met so many interesting musicians, film-makers, artists, actors, poets, philosophers and all round free thinkers on the Isle of Wight. For a while I've thought about running a small and wide ranging ‘arts & thought festival’ on the Island and now myself and everyone at Bestival HQ are very proud to announce our inaugural Lost At Sea. In 2013 we're presenting a finely-curated wide range of events - from talks on food sustainability to Edwardian train adventures, seashanty sessions and a concert of improvised jazz. I hope you'll join us for a mind-expanding adventure on this beautiful Island.”

Renowned restaurant critic and BBC TV’s ‘One Show’ star Jay Rayner, who will be hosting a special dinner as part of Lost at Sea, says, “I'm delighted to be a part of the brand new Lost at Sea festival and to be bringing my ‘Greedy Man In A Hungry World’ show to the Isle of Wight. There can be few better ways to debate knotty issues around food than over a good dinner.”

Taking place from August 31st September 4th (in the lead up to Bestival 2013), Lost at Sea offers a range of delights for all ages and tastes, whether you are a curious Islander, a discerning Isle of Wight visitor or an adventurous Bestival veteran. You can purchase separate tickets for each event, making Lost at Sea an accessible and affordable new festival for everyone.

With a wealth of cultural treats on offer why not join us for Rob da Bank’s King Kong Alternative Soundtrack in the woods; revel in a theatrical Edwardian steam train adventure; savour supper with acclaimed food critic Jay Rayner; see jazz legend Courtney Pine performing in a Minster; have a laugh with Andrew Maxwell; witness the Amazing Bubble

Show; sway along to Sea Shanties; ponder some Philosophy Bites and behold HAG’s enchanting theatre and puppetry. But most of all enjoy getting Lost at Sea! Hag at Quay Arts Theatre. Sat 31st Aug - 2.30pm & 7pm. £11£13. Hag is a show that fuses live action, puppetry, music and physical theatre for audiences of ages 10+ Rob da Bank's King Kong Alternative Soundtrack at Robin Hill Woods. Sat 31st Aug – 7pm £15. Bestival founder and BBC Radio 1 DJ Rob da Bank has been digging through his record library and chosen an eclectic collection of tracks to accompany the greatest adventure-fantasy film of all time, the much-loved original 1933 classic, ‘King Kong’.

The Amazing Bubble Show at Medina Theatre. For ages 2-11 Sunday 1st Sep 11am £5-10. This incredible stage show celebrates the magic, art, science and pure unadulterated joy of bubbles!

The Salon du The Express; an Edwardian Adventure by Rail at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.

Sun 1st Sep - 2pm £15-25. Delight in this unique and magical journey aboard the award winning Steam Railway.

Interactive theatre company Gideon Reeling are hosting a very special ‘Salon du Thé’ a theatrical adventure with afternoon tea, on the beautiful Victorian and Edwardian carriages of this much loved Railway.

Sea Shanty Sundowners with the Crew & Dollymopps at Little Gloster. Sun 1st Sep. 4.30pm – 10.30pm FREE EVENT. Watch the sun setting over the Solent as you listen to sea shanty harmonies from the Crew & the Dollymopps lilting on the breeze, sipping a rum-punch sundowner at the glorious seafront restaurant.

Philosophy Bites: A Slice of Real Life at the Royal Hotel. Monday 2rd September – 7pm £30. David Edmonds and Nigel Warburton, from the hugely popular podcasts and website Philosophy Bites, present ‘A Slice of Real Life’, through their insightful discussions of Love, Death, Charity and Happiness. With dinner - at The Royal Hotel, Ventnor.

Jay Rayner: A Greedy Man In A Hungry World at Little Gloster.

Tuesday 3rd September - 7pm £60 “The doctrine of local food is dead and farmers markets are merely a lifestyle choice for the affluent middle classes” Highly

Amazing Bubble Show

Benny Boot

Andrew Maxwell

Sea Shanty Sundowners respected restaurant critic and BBC TV ‘One Show’ reporter Jay Rayner will be hosting an exquisite dinner at the beautiful seafront restaurant, the Little Gloster.

Combining hardnosed reporting with witty memoir, this talk will change the way you shop, cook and eat forever. Dinner will include four courses (including a drink on arrival) with a specially prepared ‘Taste The Difference’ menu.

Andrew Maxwell And Benny Boot at Quay Arts. Tuesday 3rd September – 8pm. £10 An incredible double bill of comedy at

Quay Arts, featuring Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee and TV star Andrew Maxwell, plus Benny Boot (hailed as one of the greatest and most original joke writers).

Courtney Pine supported by IOW Youth Orchestra at Newport Minster. Wed 4th Sep 7.30pm. £16 The finest and most recognised jazz saxophonist on the planet, the mercurial Courtney Pine. Supported by the talented local IW Youth Orchestra, this will be a glorious night of music in the heart of our most treasured Island.

For more information visit www.lostatseaarts.net

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

BESTIVAL INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS The Bestival takes place between Thursday 5 to Sunday 8 September, with residents being advised to plan their journeys to avoid delays.

Key routes to the Bestival will become busy as tens of thousands of people travel to Robin Hill for this year’s event.

A map has been produced by the council showing the designated routes for Bestival traffic which also outlines areas residents should avoid if possible including the Hare and Hounds junction and Robin Hill roundabout.

The map, as well as other important information about the event, can be found on the council’s website at www.iwight.com.

There is an important change for traffic using Rowlands Lane this year, with the road becoming a one-way system. From 6pm on Wednesday 4 September onwards it will be a one-way direction from the Havenstreet Main Road junction to the Downs Road.

This will remain in place until around 10pm on Sunday evening when the direction will be reversed and traffic flow will be from the Downs Road to the Havenstreet Main Road junction.

The road is due to return to a twoway flow from 6pm on Monday 9 September.

There will be restrictions to public footpaths and bridleways close to the Bestival site during the event, and a 30 m.p.h. speed limit will also be in force on roads leading to and outside the site for safety reasons.

To help with traffic arriving or leaving by the Red Funnel car ferry in East Cowes on Monday 9 September, Beatrice Avenue will be no waiting at any time and will also become a one-way system from 5am until midnight to help reduce congestion.

In Binstead, from 5am on Thursday 5 September until 10pm on Monday 9 September, 'no waiting at any time' zones will be in force on Newnham Road.

Council run car parks at Yaverland seafront, Fort Street in Sandown, North Walk and Appley Park in Ryde will be closed and held in reserve each day to be used as vehicle holding areas should the Bestival site become inaccessible for cars. River Road car park in Yarmouth will also be partially closed. Should they not be required, these car parks will be re-opened to the public at some point each day.

Regular traffic updates will be provided by council via social media, the council’s website iwight.com and local media in the lead up, during and after the event. To receive information direct, residents with access to social media are encouraged to ‘like’ Isle of Wight Council Service Updates on Facebook and follow @iwight on Twitter.

Partner agencies, travel companies and the event organisers will also be providing live updates via their social media feeds.

The council, along with key partners including Island Roads, ferry operators, Hampshire Police as well as voluntary sector organisations will again have officers stationed at points on the key routes to help keep traffic moving.

Motorists are also being advised that to assist in the free flow of traffic along key routes, vehicles illegally parked on roads designated and signed as

‘clearways’ will be towed away.

John Metcalfe, Isle of Wight Council deputy director for economy and environment said: "Using our experience of recent events we will implementing measures that are designed to keep the Island’s traffic flowing throughout the period of the Bestival "Again we are working with key partner agencies to implement a robust traffic management plan to minimise disruption for motorists and residents to ensure everyone has a great time."

The council has also organised a live question and answer session on its Facebook page where residents can ask partner agencies about the event and changes to services.

The event, which takes place between 6pm to 7pm on Monday 2 September, will involve officers from the council, Island Roads, the Bestival itself and Hampshire Police answering questions live.

BESTIVAL TICKET WINNER! Congratulations to Jon Gayle, from Cowes who won himself a pair of Bestival 2013 wristbands!

The correct answer to our competition was b Bestival has not yet won “Best Student Festival.”

Thanks to everyone who entered and don’t forget tickets are running out.

Purchase your Bestival tickets online via www.bestival.net - Please keep an eye on our facebook page for more opportunities to win prizes.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

MP welcomes Business Leaders’ Report on HS2

The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, has welcomed the news that the Institute of Directors (IoD), an influential group of leading businessmen, is calling on the Government to abandon plans for the controversial high-speed rail project, High Speed 2 (HS2) A survey of IoD members showed that they overwhelmingly rejected the argument that the plan represented good value for money and 70% said that it would have no impact at all on the productivity of their businesses, leading the IoD’s director Simon Walker to describe the project as ‘one grand folly’. The coalition Government supported by the Labour Party plan to build a new line between London and the West Midlands allowing trains to run at 250mph from London to Birmingham by 2026, with Manchester and Leeds connected to the service by 2032. The original estimate for the project was £32bn, the Government now expects it to cost £42.6bn; however the Institute of Economic Affairs, an influential think tank, recently released a report suggesting the costs could escalate to more than £80bn.

Last week the Rt Hon Alastair Darling MP, who approved the

HS2 plans as Chancellor and is also a former transport secretary, said it would be foolish to go ahead.

Mr Turner commented: “It’s very clear that opposition to HS2 is growing. Today the IoD has come out against it and there are more and more questions from organisations that have previously supported the plans.

I have always had grave concerns about this project, but at the most recent vote in June only 37 MPs voted to kill off the project, with 325 MPs supporting it. I have a feeling that as time goes on more MPs will join us in voting against it. This was a vanity project started by Labour and we are now simply throwing good money after bad.

I hope that the coalition government listens carefully to the arguments of those who are opposed, including this influential business group.

The rose-tinted spectacles must come off and they must find the courage to do a U-turn and put this white elephant which constantly gets more and more expensive out of its prolonged misery.

Islanders are being expected to contribute towards paying for something most of us will never, ever use.”

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FIFTH TOURIST INFORMATION POINT OPENS ON THE ISLAND The fifth tourist information point (TP) for the Isle of Wight opened on Friday, 23rd August, at Brading Railway Station.

Brading railway station is located on the Island Line from Ryde to Shanklin. The visitor centre which is run by the Brading Town Council and volunteers from the Friends of Brading Station also operates a café and a small heritage centre, along with tours around the station and the restored 1950’s signal box, station masters office, porter’s room and waiting rooms.

Visitors to Brading Railway Station will be able to pick-up a variety of maps, leaflets and publications, talk to trained tourist staff and find out what’s on in the area.

Councillor Shirley Smart, cabinet member responsible for tourism and economy said; "Although the internet is great for planning a trip away, when I’m

on holiday I like to meet local people to get local advice - you can't underestimate that personal touch. “It is hoped that this additional information service will encourage people to stay longer and explore more of our beautiful Island, leading to an increase in spending in our towns and villages.

These new information points will also benefit local residents by providing a place to get up-todate information on events, places to eat and things to see and do.

Many thanks to all involved.”

This fifth Tourist Information Point in Brading is intended to form part of a new tourist information strategy and Visit Isle of Wight, in conjunction with the Isle of Wight Council - who are helping to fund the new centres are also moving towards opening centres in Yarmouth, Godshill, Sandown, Newport and West Wight.

Help fight heart disease The British Heart Foundation are holding a sailing day at Port Solent on Friday 13th September to raise money to fight heart disease. Whether you are a land lubber or an experienced sea dog you will enjoy an exhilarating day on a 12ft sunsail yacht with your crew.

Each of the yachts can take up to 10 crew but smaller groups can also join in the fun. The cost is £150 per person but there are reduced rates available for groups of 5 people or more.

The day includes breakfast, lunch and dinner and you will be given basic tuition in the morning before you set sail and there will be an experienced skipper on board each of the yachts.

All money raised will support the BHF in its fight against heart and circulatory disease. Sadly, heart disease is still the UK’s biggest single killer. It touches us all. Lives are cut short and for those living with the disease, life can be frightening and hard.

As the nation’s heart charity, the BHF saves lives every day by investing in pioneering research, supporting and caring for heart patients, and providing vital information to help people reduce their own risk of dying prematurely from a heart-related disease. The BHF’s vital campaigning work helps to

improve the lives of those living with heart disease now, and fights for a heart healthy future for everyone across the UK. Louise Parkes, BHF Fundraising Director, said: “We’d like to encourage as many people as possible to support the sailing regatta which promises to be great fun for everyone involved.

By engaging in events like this, you are helping to ensure that our life-saving and life-changing work continues. Together we can make a difference but we can’t do it without you.”

So whether it is a group of friends or a team building day with colleagues why not call Kathrine Maynard, fundraising manager for the BHF on 01903 779569 or e-mail HYPERLINK "mailto:maynardka@bhf.org.uk" maynardka@bhf.org.uk for more details and information about the reduced rates.

The BHF’s lifesaving work can only continue thanks to vital donations of time and money.

The charity urgently needs the support of more people and there are lots of ways to get involved.

If you would like to find out more about organising your own fundraising event for the BHF, or are interested in volunteering or other opportunities in your local area, please call 0121 661 5100.

For more information about the BHF’s work, visit bhf.org.uk.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

BESTIVAL 2013 IS ABOUT TO COMPLETELY SELL OUT As Bestival’s 10th Birthday Spectacular draws ever closer this coming September 5th-8th we’re spreading even more love across over a mighty twenty stages in ten fields of wonderment, filled with non-stop parties and 24hr escapism. It may be Notting Hill Carnival this weekend, but if you’re after the greatest congregation of ribrattling rigs outside of West London, then we’ve got just what you’re looking for...

Helping us to celebrate a decade of dancing on our very own Wight isle, we’re bringing some truly heavyweight soundsystem pressure to the Isle of Wight. Plus we have news of some amazing news acts, Club Dada additions and the full line-ups for Pig’s Big Ballroom and the Disco Shed, so make sure you grab the last few remaining tickets (we are on course to completely sell out very soon). Don't miss out!

Rob da Bank says, “Two weeks to go faithful Bestivalites and I can’t wait! As you might have guessed, I’m rather fond of a dirty great big soundsystem, so I’m extremely excited to welcome the Digital Soundboy, Swamp and Trojan Sound System crews to our 10th birthday shindig - keep an eye out for me bogling down the front.

And don’t miss out on all the crazy goings on in Club Dada and Pig’s Big Ballroom - you won’t be disappointed!”

Joining our super-colossal birthday line-up, we have three more full-fat soundsystems to announce who will be ripping up Robin Hill’s dancefloor’s including the incredible Digital Soundboy featuring the mercurial talents of their founder and jungle pioneer Shy FX, plus the not inconsiderable dancefloor spanking abilities of B.Traits, genre-swerving bass soldier Breakage, and sets from Dismantle, Stamina, LX One and Juma.

Celebrating its 15th Anniversary, Red Bull Music Academy is set to return to Bestival this September with its strongest lineup yet! And they’ve got us chomping at the bit for some huge sine wave action from Swamp (featuring Swamp 81 kingpin Loefah), the raw, machine music mayhem of Boddika, bass fusionist Pinch and off-kilter beat purveyor Mickey Pearce. Plus they’ll have Klose One stepping up to rain down the beats and Chunky on hand with the MC-ing

action.

And Red Bull Music Academy aren’t stopping there - we’re ecstatic to announce they are also bringing the mighty Trojan Sound System who will do what they do best, blessing the dancehall with some proper jammin’ and thundering bass courtesy of hortical selectors Earl Gateshead, Daddy Ad, Superfour, Chucky Bantan and Jah Buck.

We also have a litany of bootyshakin’ new acts to announce who will be helping us celebrate hitting double figures, including super-hotly tipped MC Scrufizzer (whose fizzy flow will be smashing up the RBMA stage on Sunday), Tayo 3000 who will moving your dancing shoes in the Wishing Tree and Hidden Disco, funky beats guru Soul Of Man who will be keeping the Hidden Disco jumping plus breakbeat champion Ed Solo who will be gracing our brand new arena Temple Island on Thursday night.

We’ll also have sets from Phil Mison, Wayward, Pylo, Bestival stalwarts and party geniuses Sombrero Sound System, Cholombian, Black Kat Boppers, Duct & Owen Howells, Gemma Cairney, Matthew Hawtin and Steve O’Connor.

Plus there will be live appearances from Run Tingz, Dr Meaker, Zac Smith and Garrett Kato (who’ll be playing the Bandstand on Sunday night).

The surreal surrounds of Continental Drifts’ legendary Club Dada will play host to OQuadro, Max Pashm, Tia Brazda, Run Tingz Cru, Wonka Vision, Shoreleave, Gypsy Fever, Manière des Bohémiens, Dr Meaker, The Mouse Outfit and Dr Syntax, Pony Montana and Loose Moose who will all be swinging, dinging and exploding out of the Spiegeltent across the weekend.

We’re delighted to say that Pig's Big Ballroom is back with us once again this year, providing a hip-swinging array of acts inspired by music from the time before your mother was born.

This year’s line-up includes the acclaimed Duke Special, whose vaudeville & music hall inspired style has made him a firm favourite for those in the know.

There will also be live performances from Abioye and Randall, Lewis Mockler, The Tootsie Rollers, The Finkel Brothers Trio, Keltrix, The

Devout Sceptics, Under the Driftwood Tree, The Henry Brothers, Ms Chameleon's Incredible Flea Circus, Lucky Dog Theatre presents ‘Laurel and Hardy’, Ethan Ash, CC Smugglers, The Vagaband and The Men That Will Not Be Blamed For Nothing.

Pig’s Big Ballroom will also feature a wealth of 78s selectors manning the gramophones including Auntie Maureen, DJ 78, DJ GG and Monks, Duke Special (78s DJ set), Greg and The Kipper the Cat Show, Greg’s Greats 78s, Dr. Sid, It’s A Wind Up, Karla Chameleon’s Mechanical Melodies, The Edison Brothers Cylinder Set, Tony Tunes & Matt and Vintage World Music Set. Ten years old is positively middleaged for a festival these days, so what better way for Bestival to mark its advancing years than by

investing in a garden shed? Not that you’ll be getting much peace and quiet at this most outlandish of outhouses, mind. The Disco Shed has become something of a festival institution – spreading allotmentalism all over the land.

And now they’re coming to Bestival, so expect a healthy dose of late-night shedonism from Thursday to Sunday taking in ska, funk, reggae, hip-hop, dubstep, garage, rock n roll and who knows what else from Del Gazeebo, Harvey K-Tel and Miss Splinters, et al.

There are just days to go until we hit the island and celebrate like we’ve never celebrated before, so make sure you don’t miss out on the festival season’s biggest ever last hurrah! Make sure you keep your eyes on www.Bestival.net and Facebook and Twitter for all the latest news. And don’t forget to tag your tweets #hmsbestival

BESTIVAL 2013 - TICKET LINKS & INFORMATION

2013.bestival.net/tickets

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Couple's Luncheon Date Proved Too Hard to Swallow A simple crossing of the Solent for a family lunch proved to be a voyage too far for one couple on the 22nd August, resulting in them having to call on the help of Cowes RNLI lifeboat.

Mr and Mrs R Nash, of Southampton, had set out from Hamble with the intention of meeting up with their son for lunch at the Folly on the River Medina, between Cowes and Newport. But while motoring past the Bramble Bank their yacht, the 29 foot Naviga, suffered engine failure.

To add to their frustration they were unable to hoist their mainsail, and the headsail proved inadequate for their boat to fight against the tide in the light easterly wind. By the time the lifeboat reached the yacht it had drifted to off Egypt Point, Cowes.

After lifeboat crewman Stuart Higgs had gone aboard to attach a line the Naviga was towed to Cowes Yacht Haven where it was lifted on to the shore for repairs.

The lifeboat, helmed by Laurie O'Callaghan, was launched at 1.45 pm.

Mrs and Mrs Nash with her rescuers at Cowes Yacht Haven.

Stuart Higgs boards the drifting yacht to attach a tow line.

Police appealing for witnesses after Female was sexually assaulted in Cowes Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was sexually assaulted in Cowes. The incident occurred between midnight and 12.45am on Tuesday, 27 August 2013.

A woman was walking close to the junction of Arctic Road and Cowes/Newport Medina cycle path. She had just been to the cashpoint machine at Lloyds Bank in Cowes when she was grabbed from behind by an unknown man who then sexually assaulted her.

The 32-year-old victim managed to hit out at him and he fled from the scene of the attack.

DI Martin Chudley said: “We are

appealing for witnesses to this serious sexual assault, which took place during the early hours of Tuesday morning. This incident is being investigated within the Area Investigation Team and the woman has been receiving support from our specially trained officers.

“Officers would like to hear from anyone who was out at around that time, and who may have seen or heard anything that may assist the investigation.”

Anyone with information should call DC Ridler at the Area Investigation Team, Cosham Police Station on 101 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Lifeboat Station's Carnival Entry Became a Float Rather than Afloat Cowes RNLI lifeboat station promoted their Bank Holiday open day by for the first time taking part in the town's illuminated carnival.

To carry out their promotion the crew borrowed a trailer-borne D class inflatable and 4 x 4 vehicle from the East Cowes-based Inshore Lifeboat Centre. Using a shed at Shepards Wharf, they decorated the boat with lights loaned by the Island Sailing Club and by affixing 'waves' to the sides made of painted cardboard.

The lights, plus suitable on-board music arranged by crewman Peter Tarrant, were powered by a generator provided by crewman Pete Cunningham.

As the float joined the procession through the streets on Saturday evening crew members, including the main organiser, Steve Price, handed out leaflets advertising the station's open day, as well as helping to collect money for the carnival committee. Before setting off they learned their entry had won a 'second in its class' award.

Partly as a result of the unusual advertising campaign Monday's open day was the most popular since the station opened just over a year ago. Many of the visitors were families with young children who eagerly took up the invitation to colour in pictures and participate in a written quiz.

Another attraction was the sight of the lifeboat being launched for a practice 'man overboard' demonstration just off The Parade.

There were also many volunteers on hand to explain how boat and station operated.

Just as the Open Day was drawing to a close the lifeboat was launched for a real shout, or rather two shouts. Just after 2 pm the lifeboat was tasked to, first, deal with a 30 foot yacht aground at Thorness and another yacht that had broken down off Egypt Point . But they found that the yacht at Thorness had floated free on the rising tide, and the other boat had been taken in tow by a marine services craft.

Cowes RNLI entry in Cowes illuminated carnival. (Photo: Nick Edwards)

All those who took part pose after the event on The Parade.

NEW-LOOK & SIGNIFICANTLY LONGER HOURS FOR RYDE POST OFFICE The Post Office is modernising Ryde Post Office, Martin McColl, 47 – 48 Union Street, Ryde, PO33 2LF into a new style branch with significantly longer opening hours for customers.

As part of Post Office plans to modernise the network and extend the opening hours for customers Ryde Post Office will have four screened counter positions. A low level writing desk will also be installed to benefit customers in wheelchairs.

Ryde Post Office will close for refurbishment on Tuesday 24 September at 17.30 and the newlook Post Office opens on Thursday 26 September at 13.00.

The store will remain open.

During the brief period of closure for refurbishment the alternative offices are Seaview Post Office, Dobsons, 4 Pier Road, Seaview, Ryde and High Street Post Office, The Post Office, High Street, Ryde, Post Office Regional Network Manager - South, Will Russell,

said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in this area of Ryde and we are confident that the new branch will meet the needs of the local community and secure services for the future.

“The modernisation is part of a major investment programme to convert the Post Office network to new-style branches. This investment, the largest in the history of the Post Office, makes a commitment to no more branch closure programmes.”

Post Office customers will benefit from opening hours being extended by 20.25 hours a week as selected Post Office products and services will available during shop opening hours, which will be Monday to Saturday: 08.00 18.30; Sunday: 09.00 - 12.00.

The extra hours will include Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. The branch will also open earlier and close later every day.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

GET COMEDY AT BESTIVAL! We’ve got our biggest ever line-up coming aboard HMS Bestival this September 5th – 8th to celebrate our 10th Birthday Spectacular, but it’s not just about the music! Alongside a veritable smorgasbord of cabaret, theatre, performance art and film, we’re also over the moon to announce that the cream of comics and clowns will be on deck, serving up side-splitting shenanigans all weekend long - brought to us hot from the Edinburgh Festival courtesy of our belly-laughing brethren Get Comedy.

Rob da Bank says, “There are squillions of different ways of enjoying Bestival; if your eardrums are feeling a bit weary and you're feeling a bit jaded, head down to our ace Comedy Tent which, as ever, has a selection of the best gagsters in the world performing”.

Among a host of top name standups, we’re thrilled to announce that one-liner king Milton Jones will be joining us at Robin Hill. A regular on Mock the Week (BBC2), Milton has appeared on Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow (BBC1), Live At The Apollo (BBC1) and has headlined Dave’s One Night Stand (DAVE). His Lion Whisperer live tour played to over 100,000 people in 2011 and his 2013 tour, On The Road, is set to play to more. Don’t miss him at Bestival!

Marcus Brigstocke, the master of satirical comedy who has proved to be blisteringly funny over a wide range of topics, will also be on hand to present Policy Unit. The greatest minds in modern Britain (clowns, jesters and jokeslingers) are invited to solve all the problems of modern life. There is no issue too small, no problem too great for the Policy Unit. Defence, Health, Justice, Society, Michael Gove and what's to be done about UKIP... Where 'The Early Edition' sought to undermine The Policy Unit will heal.

Porky the Poet was Phill Jupitus’ fiery alter-ego that raged against the fascists and oppression in the mid 80s. And we’re over the moon that he will be with us at Bestival as never has there been a better time for Porky to return and elevate us all with engaging, informed and important poetry.

Bestival legend Andrew Maxwell is renowned for his cutting-edge comedy and intrepid social commentary. A double Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee (2007 & 2011) and star of Sky TV’s John Bishop’s Only Joking and BBC’s Live At The Apollo, Andrew Maxwell is always a must-see for

any comedy fan.

If you haven’t seen Terry Alderton before then you won’t have seen anything like Terry Alderton before.

Sure there are tons of bald men in shirts out there, thousands even, but few will take to a stage and blow the socks off an audience like a giant sock blower, in the way Terry does.

You have been warned!

You won’t want to miss the inimitable Daniel Sloss who has starred on TV shows such as Michael McIntyre’s Comedy Roadshow, 8 Out Of 10 Cats, Mock The Week and more, plus his own BBC show The Adventures of Daniel. Daniel started gigging aged just 16 and in October 2009, aged 19, his debut in London’s Soho Theatre made him the youngest stand-up ever to perform a solo season in the West End! Plus we’ll have super-hot improv rap-duo Abandoman. Winner of Hackney Empire’s New Act of the Year, the Musical Comedy Awards and the 2012 Adelaide Fringe Festival’s Best Comedy Newcomer award, Abandoman create hilarious freestyle flows from audience suggestions at lightning speed. Jawdroppingly funny and definitely one of this year’s comedy highlights!

But that’s not all as there will also be comic turns from Jarred Christmas, Craig Campbell, Tony Law, Ian Stone, Carey, Carl Donnelly, Tom Thum, David Trent, Joel Dommett, Eric Lampaert, Katherine Ryan, Barry Castagnola, Late Night Gimp Fight, Andrew O’Neill, Tim FitzHigham, Alistair Barrie, Benny Boot, Hannah Gadsby, Paul McCaffrey, Andy Askins, Matt Reed, Felicity Ward, Stu Goldsmith, Richard Sandling, Damian Clark, Pete Cain, Wayne Deakin, Jay Foreman, Jim Campbell, Kai Humphries, Danny McLoughlin, Marcus O’Laoire, Ben Ven der Velde, Alex Edelman, Jeff Leach, Paul Sweeney, Hannah George, Mat Ewins, Sean McLoughlin, James Loveridge and award-winning comedian and film reviewer Richard Sandling’s Perfect Movie featuring very special guests, interviews, sketches, classic movie trailers, games and recreations of top comedians’ favourite film scenes all in one jam-packed show.

With a bucketload of amazing attractions and our grand 10th birthday spectacular just around the corner, its no wonder Bestival is about to completely sell out yet again. So don't delay - you don't want to miss out on the party of the year.

The final few tickets and ferry packages are available now from www.bestival.net Make sure you keep your eyes on 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 30th August 2013

Christ the King College GCSE Results 2013 Christ the King College is pleased to report another high attaining year, despite the nationally reported ‘turbulence’ in this year’s results and warnings about grade-deflation from the Examination Boards.

The College has provisionally achieved 84% of its year 11 students achieving the benchmark standard of higher grade passes of a minimum of 5A* - C, which is an impressive 16% above the provisional national average of 68%. Principal, Pat Goodhead, said she was “absolutely delighted with the consistency of this continued high attainment across a mainly traditional academic curriculum.”

78% of students achieved the higher grade pass of C and above in Mathematics, which continues to be one of the many strengths of the College, a performance 20% above the provisional national average.

Provisional figures also indicate that the College has shown overall improvement on its outstanding success of last year by increasing the average point score achieved by all students, and certainly exceeding last year’s national average.

The relatively new ‘English Baccalaureate’ measurement, based on performance in the core subjects, humanities and languages, showed an approximate increase of 5% percentage points compared with 2012’s national figure, again reflecting the strong spine of the College’s academic curriculum.

Achievement in English has demonstrated an equally strong performance at the College, with provisional figures indicating 77% achieving A*-C, with 67% of the overall cohort of students achieving the higher grade passes in both English and maths.

There have also been many exceptional individual achievements at the College this year, not only in the significant number of students achieving the top grades across a range of subjects, including Latin, Classics and Statistics, but in the achievements of those students who have faced personal challenges.

The College’s results, in addition to surpassing many of its own excellent performances last year, are also well above this year’s national averages in other subjects. In Science, another strength of the College, students have again beaten the national average and the College’s ongoing commitment to sport has been rewarded with 100% achievement in PE. Christ the King College has a clear

focus on the progress and attainment of each individual student, and all the indications are that the students have continued to show and surpass the outstanding levels of achievement for which they are rightly known. What is particularly rewarding with this year’s results are the very high levels of progress made by a significant majority of the students, which is the key Ofsted criteria for measuring the performance of a school.

Pat Goodhead, an experienced Ofsted Inspector herself, reported that she was “thrilled with the students’ individual progress as this really shows the College is working to ensure each and every individual student achieves their potential; this reflects the ethos of the College and our focus on the individual.”

The highest performing 11 individual students at the College achieved a remarkable 113 A*/A grades, of which 61 were straight A*s, and overall progress from Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 4 in key subjects, another important measure, is again showing an improvement on last year’s performance, particularly in the higher grades.

Pat Goodhead, Principal, said: “On behalf of the staff at Christ the King College, I would like to extend warm congratulations to all our Year 11 students. We are looking forward to welcoming them back to College and continuing to build on their successes next year when we will, of course, also be celebrating our first set of A Level results. This is a truly wonderful time for the College community and, as always, I am proud of the achievement of each and every individual student.”

Cllr Chris Whitehouse said “What fantastic results Christ the King has delivered, yet again. It truly is a beacon of excellence. Well done to all those students who worked so hard to do their best in these exams. “As a parent of two students at the College, and as its local ward councillor, it is a pleasure and a privilege to be involved with the success of this truly remarkable institution. Christ the King has been historically cash starved and obstructed almost every step of the way, but these results prove just what hard work by the leadership team and teachers can deliver even in the most adverse circumstances.”

COMEDY NIGHTS COME TO MEDINA THEATRE A new regular comedy slot is coming to Medina Theatre in Newport. In collaboration with The Comedy Network, there will be live shows from some of the most exciting new talent on the comedy scene.

Headlining the opening night on Thursday 5 September is Tom Craine, an awardwinning stand-up comedian and writer who has recently appeared on Russell Howard’s Good News and Live at the Electric.

Support for this evening is from Ahir Shah, one of comedy’s brightest new talents whose sharp brand of stand-up features a blend of socio-political awareness, energetic delivery and jokes.

The evening’s host is standup comedian and comic actor, Paul McCaffrey, who will

soon be seen on a new BBC television show called Impractical Jokers.

The Comedy Network was established by Avalon Promotions in 1992 after working with student entertainment teams all over the country. Since then, The Comedy Network has had many award nominations and can boast a number of famous comics to have emerged.

These include Russell Howard, Noel Fielding, Bill Bailey, Ed Byrne, Harry Hill, Al Murray, Ross Noble, Dave Gorman, Sean Lock and Lee Mack. Medina Comedy Club will be on the first Thursday of the month, excluding December and January.

Tickets are £13 and if you are a One Card member, they are available for £10.

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21

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

WINNING VISIT TO THE ISLE OF WIGHT FOR HOLIDAYMAKER A woman from Edinburgh got a nice surprise while visiting the Isle of Wight during a recent holiday here.

Donna Ridland, who was visiting the Isle of Wight with her fiance, was called to tell her that she had won a new Samsung Galaxy smartphone as part of a competition run in partnership by PayByPhone and the Isle of Wight Council.

A competition was held between 24 June and 24 July where every time someone paid for parking in a council car park or on-street bay using PayByPhone, they were given an entry into the competition to win the phone.

Donna said: "We decided to visit the Isle of Wight because we wanted to stay in the UK for our summer holiday, and visiting an island destination gave us a great sense of adventure. My fiance Matt also had fond memories as a child coming here and said we should go.

"I was a bit worried at first when I got the call from the council as I thought I had been given a ticket!

But this soon turned to surprise and excitement when I was told I’d won a new phone!

"We loved our holiday to the Isle of Wight and will look to come again. It is a very special place with amazing scenery and is so different to Scotland's landscape.

We used the PayByPhone facility as it is so easy to use - I use it regularly as very often I do not have coins on me!”

Councillor Jon Gilbey, the council's cabinet member responsible for highways said: "I am very pleased Donna had such a wonderful time on the Isle of Wight, and to win the smartphone was obviously a welcome surprise.

"Any motorist will no doubt have gone to pay for parking before and realised they do not have the correct change, which is a common gripe. This is why the PayByPhone option is so important these days, especially on a tourism Island and the system is clearly popular with tens of thousands of transactions already since January this year."

Robin Bevan, Commercial CEO at PayByPhone said, “It is very important to us that customers find our service easy and convenient to use so we are delighted that Donna had such a good experience and can now enjoy using her new smartphone."

All of the council's car parks and parking bays allow motorists to pay for parking using the PayByPhone system, with each town also featuring at least one parking meter which accepts debit or credit cards as well.

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£12,000 worth of items stolen from a Shanklin Hotel

Police are appealing for witnesses and information after a man entered the Ocean Hotel on Sandown Esplanade on Friday, August 23 and stole over £12,000 worth of items from three of the guest rooms.

Amongst the property stolen were a large quantity of ladies jewellery, including several heavy gold and diamond bracelets, a large stoned ruby and diamond high set ring, a Chopard gold floating diamond necklace, a topaz necklace, ring and earrings, several pairs of diamond earrings, two mobile phones and a digital hand held motion camera. The suspect is described as white, aged between 40 – 50 years, slim build, skinny face with black hair which is longer on top and greying around the sides.

He was wearing a short sleeve light coloured – possibly blue shirt and blue jeans Investigating Officer, DC Victoria Hayward said: “This is a very rare occurrence during a busy bank holiday weekend and we are asking members of the public or businesses who have an interest in buying or selling jewellery to be on the lookout for someone trying to sell this rare and unusual jewellery. Some items may not be hallmarked as they were purchased abroad.”

Anyone with information can contact DC Hayward at Newport DCID 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 30th August 2013

Major review of single person council tax entitlement A comprehensive review is to be carried out to check that Island council taxpayers who benefit from a 25 per cent ‘single occupancy’ reduction on their bills are entitled to the discount.

The council has appointed Capita Local Government Services to carry out the review of 23,400 council taxpayers from mid-September.

Capita will work with Equifax, the credit reference agency, using up-to-the-minute, data– matching technology to identify where people may be claiming discounts they are not entitled to. The checks form part of the council’s measures to prevent and detect fraud and protect the public purse.

It follows a similar project carried out in 2010/2011, which identified close to £100,000

worth of incorrect discounts being claimed. Cabinet member for resources, Councillor Jonathan Gilbey, said: “Single person discount is an entitlement that the council is keen to ensure is claimed by council taxpayers who are genuinely entitled, especially in these trying economic times.

“However, council taxpayers who claim the discount improperly place an unnecessary burden on the very real needs of some residents.”

Any council taxpayers currently receiving a discount which they feel may not be correct are urged to contact the council on (01983) 823901 before the full review begins.

More information about council tax and any entitlement to a reduction can be found at www.iwight.com

Oldeworlde Wins a coveted 2013 International Green Apple Award OldeWorlde Antiques & Collectables of Sandown on the Isle of Wight has been named a Winner in this year’s 2013 International Green Apple Awards for Environmental Best Practice.

The Green Apple Awards run by independent environment group The Green Organisation, honour companies that demonstrate environmental best practice. The awards are well established as being one of the most influential environmental award schemes worldwide.

The Award will be presented to Andrew Jackson the owner of OldeWorlde, at a Presentation Ceremony to be held at the House of Commons, in London on Monday, 11th November 2013.

Andrew Jackson, Owner of Oldeworlde said: “Antiques and Vintage Collectables are the purest form of recycling and it is an honour for a small company like us to be recognised in this year’s award announcements, especially as it is one of the most prestigious environmental awards available.

Most of the winners of this award tend to be big businesses and so it came as a surprise to

find that we were one of the successful Candidates." "The Green Apple Awards were launched in 1994 and they are one of the few RSA-accredited campaigns chosen as an automatic feeder scheme for British entries into the Brussels-led European Business Awards for the Environment, so there is also the chance that Oldeworlde Antiques may be chosen to represent the UK in Europe.”

Everything available through OldeWorlde is Reclaimed and Recycled.

Whether you are buying a Fine Antique or Vintage Collectable all items are Carbon Neutral having been manufactured over 30 years ago.

Nothing goes to Landfill and everything is recycled in some form, even items ordered through our website are sent out in recycled packaging.

Likewise, by buying Antiques and Collectables rather than new modern copies you are Saving Money as well as helping to Protect your Planets Future.

You can rest assured when buying anything from OldeWorlde we have you, your children’s and your planets best interests at heart!”

“Syria is a Tinder-box – a Spark could set it ablaze” Andrew Turner has made public his strong opposition to missile strikes on Syria following the use of chemical weapons in Damascus last week. Both the Syrian Government led by President Assad and rebels fighting to overthrow the Assad Regime have blamed each other for the attacks which led to the deaths of at least 355 people. In recent days there have been media reports that the Prime Minister David Cameron is preparing to launch missile attacks against the Assad regime Mr Turner was one of 15 Conservative MPs who voted against going to war in Iraq in 2001; he has previously opposed arming the Syrian rebels as he believes that there can be no guarantees where they may end up. The experience of Iraq shows that weapons supplied by the West can end up being used against our forces. The Shadow Foreign Secretary Rt Hon Douglas Alexander MP conceded this morning on Radio 4s This Morning programme that we must learn the lessons from Iraq.

Mr Turner said “Syria is a volatile tinder-box of violence. A single spark could set the whole region ablaze – and it could have unanticipated consequences in the wider world. Yesterday the Russian Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, set out the Russian position; that the use of military force against Assad without UN

approval would be a 'grave violation of international law' and described it as a 'very dangerous' and 'very slippery path'. There could hardly be a clearer warning that this situation has the potential to escalate into a global conflict. I believe that there are circumstances where UK forces may be justified in acting in our national interest without UN approval – but the situation in Syria certainly does not meet those criteria at the moment.

“If the case for military action is so strong that our Government believes we must get involved then Parliament must be recalled so that the Prime Minister can make the case to MPs and to the country.

What happened in Damascus was terrible; but we need to be sure of the facts and what the objectives of intervention are. We also need to know what resources would be needed and how we would plan to deal with any wider consequences. At the moment I am not convinced that any of those questions have been answered satisfactorily.”

Appeal after car damaged in Ryde Police are seeking the public’s help in identifying two men after a Toyota car was extensively damaged in Oakfield in Ryde on Thursday, August 23.

Footage from CCTV has shown a youth who is wearing a light coloured hoodie with the hood up throwing a large rock at the silver Toyota which was parked on the owner’s driveway. Another youth in dark clothing is seen hiding behind a wall on the junction of Reed Street and High Street (where the car was park).

Investigating Officer, PC Carolyn Pointing said: “We are interested in hearing from anyone who may have information to help us identify the two youths seen in the CCTV footage.

“This is the second time that the

victim has had his car targeted and the roof and windscreen were both badly damaged. We are keen to find these suspects so they can assist us with our enquiries.”

Anyone with information can contact PC Pointing at Newport DCID 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 30th August 2013

3D FOSSILS FROM THE ISLAND GO WORLDWIDE Dinosaur Isle Museum in Sandown will soon have many of its fossils on display in full 3D imagery as part of a major national scheme.

In May this year, scientists from the British Geological Survey (BGS) visited Dinosaur Isle and scanned each of the museum's 30 'type' fossils in 3D. Since then, each fossil has been uploaded to a new website which will feature every one of the UK's type fossils. A type fossil is defined as usually being the first of its kind to be discovered and these are then used to determine the species of any similar future fossil finds.

The website, which can accessed at www.3d-fossils.ac.uk, allows anyone to log on and view any of the fossils in full 3D. One of the main ideas behind it is so that scientists or educational establishments from across the world can view any fossil they want in intricate detail without having to see the real thing.

Peter Pusey, Dinosaur Isle Museum's general manager said: "The Isle of Wight is well known as being one of the world's most important sites for dinosaur fossil finds. Anyone can come here to hunt for fossils and even walk with dinosaurs thanks to the wonders of modern technology using a special App. "Many people may be surprised to hear that we have 30 'type' fossils in our collection, all of which have been scanned in 3D and will feature on the British Geological Survey's new website.”

Shirley Smart, the council’s cabinet member responsible for tourism added: "The Isle of Wight is well known as being the dinosaur capital of Europe and there have been many significant prehistoric finds made here over the decades. It is wonderful to know that dozens of fossils on display in Dinosaur Isle Museum can now be viewed all in one place from across the globe.”

To celebrate the launch of the new website, the British Geological Survey is launching a national competition from today (22 August) aimed at children. A real life replica of one of Dinosaur Isle's type fossils that has been scanned, a Neovenator claw, has been made using a 3D printer.

The fossil will be placed along with the real one, and visitors will need to identify which the real fossil is. All entries will be put into a draw and five winners randomly chosen will be given free museum tickets. These five winners will then be entered into a national draw to win prizes including a tablet computer with all of the 3D fossils scanned in.

Visitors to www.dinosaurisle.com, can also enter the competition online via the website.

Credit: Isle of Wight Council

GCSE RESULTS SHOW IMPROVEMENTS The GCSE results achieved by 16 year olds on the Isle of Wight have shown an improvement this year.

Provisional results reported by the Island’s secondary schools show an increase of five percentage points in achievement from 2012, with 50 per cent achieving five or more A* - C passes including English and maths compared to 45 per cent in 2012.

Limited national information is available but in 2012, the national average was 58.8 per cent of students achieved the same measure.

English results are close to national figures this year with 61 per cent achieving an A* C grade against the national average of 64 per cent.

Mathematics performance on the Island is particularly strong this year with 70 per cent achieving an A* to C grade in comparison with 58 per cent nationally. Many students also studied for a range of other qualifications including diplomas, BTECs and National Vocational Qualifications.

Around 1500 pupils on the Island sat exams this summer.

The achievement of five or more A* - C grades including mathematics and English is the government target for pupils at the end of Key Stage 4 (aged 16) and achieving this prepares young people for their post-16 education.

When the official results are published later in the autumn, schools will also be judged against some new targets including the progress children have made in English and mathematics, their performance in their “best eight” subjects.

Changes in education legislation mean that those completing their secondary education this summer will not be ‘school leavers’ anymore but will continue in education or training for at least another year. More than 93 per cent of students on the Isle of Wight have already secured a post-16 place or are set to take up an apprenticeship from September.

Councillor Richard Priest, cabinet member for children’s services for the Isle of Wight Council said: “All those who sat GCSE and vocational exams this summer should be praised for their efforts. We appreciate the support of parents and the work of the teaching and support staff in helping these students to do well and we will be working closely with all schools over the coming year to help them to continue to improve.

“Closer analysis of these results will enable the council to identify what support schools require and the best way we can assist them with the resources we have.

"We are not complacent about the challenges we are facing in education on the Island and the need to raise the benchmark.

We are strongly committed to improvement and working with our strategic partner to implement an action plan.

"With a new administration and the expertise of Hampshire County Council, I am confident we are now in a strong position to turn things around and drive up educational standards to ensure our schools provide high quality teaching and enable our children to achieve their full potential.

"Our current cohort of 16 year olds now has the opportunity to build on their achievements, as they move into further education or training to study for A-Levels or vocational skills and qualifications.

"It is important that young people continue in education or training to obtain the best qualifications and develop the highest standard of skills so that they can shape their own futures and that of the Island.

On behalf of the council, I wish them every success.”

The IWC’s participation team offers independent and impartial support to all young people during the exam results period. The team can be found at 29 High Street, Newport, P030 1SS and can be contacted on (01983) 525927.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Melvyn Hayes Opens memorial garden in all its “Gloria” at the Children’s Ward "Melvyn Hayes, the well known actor, and Island resident, visited the Children's Ward, St Mary's Hospital, Isle of Wight to open a garden which had been created in the memory of James Sparks. James was a long term patient of Children's Ward who died aged 17 in 2009.

Shortly after James's death his family donated money to the Ward to use on a garden project.

Some work was carried out on an area of waste ground at the rear of Children's Ward; garden furniture and a shed was bought but the garden remained untidy and run down.

This Spring the staff on Children's Ward decided to give the garden a complete ‘make over’. Ideas were gathered and plans were drawn up to make the garden a place which had a special meaning in the form of a memorial to James. Above all, staff were determined that the garden should be a safe area of calm and relaxation to be used by patients, parents, staff and visitors. One of James great interests was railways and trains.

His enthusiasm inspired the theme for the garden. As you enter the garden you start a train ride through the countryside to the sea. The garden shed has been painted and has become the ticket office with a platform outside.

Street artist Tony Trowbridge has spray painted a train on one of the walls, together with a unique Isle of Wight poster. Garden plants in seaside colours take you to the beach and into the sea. There is even a seagull which ‘flies’ over the ticket office. The garden furniture and umbrellas complete the colourful picture.

The waste ground is now a delightful area for everyone to enjoy outside the confines of the Ward.

Pauline Martin, Ward Clerk on Children’s Ward said, “The time and commitment given by staff has been magnificent. Their determination to see the project through, together with the donation from James' parents has enabled us to create a vibrant living memorial to James."

Importantly, while in hospital, James would enjoy watching ‘It Ain't Half Hot Mum’ with his father.

Therefore, it was particularly fitting that Melvyn

Hayes who played the unforgettable Gunner Gloria Beaumont in the hit comedy opened the James Sparks Memorial Garden.

Before cutting the tape Melvyn gave an excellent speech about the project and Melvyn Hayes called “A wonderful memorial to James.”

Melvyn’s whose career has also involved productions for Family and Children is well known for his performances as a traditional Pantomime Dame in Christmas Pantomimes such as Nanny Nellie in Sleeping Beauty and Widow Twankey in Aladdin. He also performed voices on children's cartoons such as Super Ted, The Dreamstone, Little Dracula, Alfred J. Kwak, and Budgie the Little Helicopter.

Shanklin Brass band provided some of the entertainment at the opening. James was a former member of the Junior Band musicians from James era are now with the Senior Band who attended. The Band finished their session by playing the march from the film The Great Escape which James often would humorously whistle on the Ward.

The Children’s Ward at St. Mary’s Hospital is a 13 bedded ward with attached 6 bed day ward providing support to some of the Island’s most poorly children and their parents which can additionally include visitors to the Island. The full range of conditions cared for includes Surgical, Medical, Orthopaedic and Mental Health.

Also attached to the ward are the Children’s Community Nurses who care Island wide for Children aged from 2 weeks to 18 years of age.

NEIGHBOURS WHO RESCUED WOMAN FROM BURNING HOUSE ARE HONOURED

Stephen Eggleton (left), with Phillip Pearce (right) – Credit IW Council

Two members of the public have been given chief fire officer commendations for bravery by the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service in recognition of their efforts to save an elderly woman from a house fire.

On 22 October 2012, a fire broke out in the property of 85 year old Mary Nerval. Alerted by smoke alarms, neighbour Stephen Eggleton went into the burning and smoke filled house in Victoria Road, Newport, and found the homeowner lying injured on the floor.

He left the property and went to his neighbour Phillip Pearce.

Together they entered the house which by now was in thick smoke with visible flames within the room where Mary Nerval was lying. Together, they pulled her from the burning property into a nearby neighbours address to seek immediate medical attention.

Although Mary sadly passed away two weeks later, she may have died on that night had it not been for the efforts of her neighbours.

Steve Apter, the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service chief fire officer said: "The elderly homeowner was partially blind and 85 years old at the time of the incident. She was helpless, injured and stranded on her floor

overcome by thick smoke.

"We are also presenting a letter of appreciation to Rona Jackson, who was one of Mary's neighbours. She took it upon herself as a caring neighbour to contact the Isle of Wight Fire Service months before the fire to arrange for smoke alarms to be fitted. Without these smoke alarms in place there would have been no audible warning to alert neighbours of this fire.

"We feel it is only right we recognise the lengths these neighbours when to on that night in October 2012, and presenting these certificates and letter is one way of doing that."

Superintendent Will Schofield, Hampshire Constabulary's Isle of Wight district commander added: "Police officers attended this incident and were extremely impressed by the actions of the all three of Mrs Nerval's neighbours.

"In particular, the community spirit shown in 'looking out' for their elderly neighbour but also the courage shown in entering the burning building. Both the attending officers and I are very grateful for their actions."

More information about the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, including tips and advice for staying safe in the home, can be found at www.iwight.com.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

BESTIVAL PRESENTS ‘THE ART OF DRESSING UP’ Pioneers in the renaissance of fancy dress to become an inspirational “dressing up to get down”, Bestival 21st Century fashion statement. has become synonymous not only Lily Allen said, "We’re show offs with fancy dress but also with really - that’s why we like dressing up adventurous style. From its inception, in the UK. At Bestival, I'm always Bestival’s all encompassing themes astonished by how much luggage have fuelled the imagination of the people bring with them, especially the thousands of festival-goers who have girls - dresses and glitter and makecrossed the Solent to the Isle of Wight up. It’s insane that’s it supposed to be to enjoy one of the most creative and going back to basics, staying in a tent forward-looking events in the festival and living more simply, but you’re bringing all this stuff with you! Its so calendar.

Celebrating that unique creativity, different everywhere else – it would from artists and Bestivalites alike, never happen in America and in ‘Bestival Presents… The Art of Japan everyone just wears the same Dressing Up’, is a 364 page visual uniform - kagoules and ashtrays document of sartorial invention as hanging round their necks.

"The second time I played at Bestival high art.

Rob da Bank says, “I don’t know was the year of the space theme and I what it is about the British. Fancy planned my outfit months in advance. dress and getting dressed up in I was in the gym non stop so I could eccentric, ridiculous and just plain squeeze into my silver Barbarella stylish regalia seem to go hand in outfit and the whole weekend was just hand with our seldom-seen show-off amazing." nature ... And nowhere is that more An eye-opening record of striking Isleand of Wight Council at one of the design originality evident than at our beloved Bestival. Credit From the medieval fool to morris UK’s best loved festivals, Bestival dancers and pantomime - the Great Presents… The Art of Dressing Up British people love any excuse to don will be launched with an exclusive, some crazy outfits and let their hair must-see exhibition at Selfridges and be available through down. Maybe we’re shy, retiring will Selfridges & creatures in our everyday guise and www.bestival.net, we need to become someone else to selected Urban Outfitters from Monday 16th September, priced truly kick our heels up?

“For the last decade Bestival has £15.99. embraced fancy dress like no other Keep on checking www.Bestival.net festival and has also pioneered the and our Facebook and Twitter for all theming of festivals. From pirates to the latest news. And don’t forget to outer space, wildlife to fantasy and tag your tweets #hmsbestival. cowboys & indians (and the ill fated underwater theme that made the heavens open and nearly resulted in us cancelling the show!), it’s been a multi coloured psychedelic trip as tens of thousands of revellers parade through the festival.

“This book is all about that celebration of dressing up and fancy dress taken to the extreme. Get your outfit on!”

More than a mere coffee table book, The Art of Dressing Up features forewords from long-time Bestival comrade Lily Allen, esteemed journalist Miranda Sawyer and Bestival curator Rob da Bank. With selected high-end on-site studio portraits by Kent Matthews and Dan Smith shot during Bestival 2009’s outer space & 2010’s fantasy themes, alongside atmospheric images of the event itself taken by Jamie Baker, it’s an exciting and engrossing glimpse into the psyche of a style-driven phenomenon.

Highlighting the countless hours of imagination and ingenuity that Bestival-goers and a huge number of the acts put into their costumes surrounding each year’s theme, the book demonstrates that dressing up has transcended simple

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26

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Island Stoma Team are first recipients of Colostomy Association’s prestigious Purple Iris Award The Isle of Wight NHS Trust’s Stoma Care Team are the first recipients of the Colostomy Association’s prestigious Purple Iris Award.

This new Award recognises and celebrates the clinical and professional care and outstanding contribution beyond the nursing remit given by a team/department in a hospital or community setting directly involved with provision of high quality stoma care to patients. The Award was made at the Colostomy Association’s Patient Open Day at the Madejski Stadium, Reading, on Saturday 20th July.

A colostomy is a common surgical procedure that pulls a section of the large intestine (colon) through an opening in the abdominal wall.

The opening is known as a stoma. A pouch is placed over the stoma to collect waste products that would usually pass through the colon and out of the body through the rectum and anus.

A colostomy can be permanent or temporary.

30 permanent colostomies are carried out on the Island each year and there are approx 200 patients on the Island with a permanent colostomy.

Matron Sue Biggs says: “It wasn’t until Colostomy Nurse Specialist (CNS) Andie Coates was on stage to receive certificates recognising outstanding service with three other groups from across the country that it was announced that we were the recipients of first ever Purple Iris Award.

Our aim in the team is to provide patients with quality care every time and it is great to know that this has been recognised with this award.

Everyone in the team is thrilled.”

The Stoma care team on the Island comprises: Michelle Houchin, Secretary; Amanda Broadbridge, CNS Stoma Care; Andrene (Andie) Coates, CNS Stoma Care; Sue Biggs, Matron and Jill Hambley, Admin Support Mr Monty Taylor, Chairman of Trustees, Colostomy Association said: “the Purple Iris Award recognises outstanding service given by a stoma care department to patients, their families and carers – the CA is delighted to acknowledge the

hard work and dedication of the Isle of Wight stoma team – congratulations to everyone – keep up the great work!”

The Colostomy Association is a UK registered charity representing the interests of people with a colostomy.

Colostomy is not a subject that is openly discussed - hence there is a general lack of public knowledge on what it's like to have a stoma. The Association offer support, reassurance and practical information to anyone who may be about to have, or already has a colostomy and provides assistance to those who are new to living with a colostomy as well as those who have been colostomates for many years. Appropriate support and advice is offered to families and carers both before and after surgery. The Association work with our staff, volunteers and health professionals, and aim to provide: Support and advice for colostomates, their families and their carers; Email and 24hr telephone helpline; comprehensive advisory literature; quarterly magazine and visits for those who need it A colostomy is needed when there is a problem with an area of the colon. For example, if the colon has become damaged, blocked or affected by conditions such as bowel cancer.

There are two main types of colostomies. They are: a loop colostomy, where a loop of colon is brought to the abdominal skin surface and two openings are made in the stoma an end colostomy, where one end of the colon is brought to the abdominal skin surface (stoma has one opening) Loop colostomies are usually temporary.

Temporary colostomies are sometimes used after surgery, injury or infection when a section of the colon has been damaged. This gives it time to heal before it is rejoined and the stoma is closed.

End colostomies are usually permanent but can be temporary.

A permanent colostomy may be needed if the colon is severely damaged or if it is necessary to remove the rectum or anus.

An alternative to a colostomy is an ileostomy. This stoma is made from the last part of your small bowel. Your surgeon will

advise you which stoma is necessary & the reasons for this.

Modern colostomy equipment is both discreet and secure and there is no reason why you should not be able to take part in activities that you enjoyed before having a colostomy.

Furthermore, other people will only be aware that you have a colostomy if you decide to tell them.

Adjusting to life after having a colostomy can be challenging and for some people it can also be distressing. However, most people become accustomed to it over time without experiencing the symptoms that made it necessary in the first place.

It is important to follow the recommendations given to you by the stoma nurse about the use of equipment to avoid problems and possible complications.

PROPOSED RELOCATION OF YARMOUTH POST OFFICE The Post Office is proposing to move Yarmouth Post Office from its current location at Quay Street, next door to Holdings newsagents to create one of our new-style local open-plan branch with extended opening hours for customers.

The Post Office is inviting customers and interested parties to give their comments on the move in a six week public consultation which ends on 1 October. The proposed move is with the current subpostmaster’s agreement.

Post Office Regional Network Manager – South, Will Russell, said: “We understand how important having a Post Office is to residents in Yarmouth and we are confident that this new modern branch will make it easier for our customers to do business with us and also secure services for the future.”

“The modernisation is part of a major investment programme to convert the Post Office network to new-style branches.

This investment, the largest in the history of the Post Office, makes a commitment to no more branch closure programmes.”

Post Office local is a new concept for delivering Post Office services from an open plan counter with Post Office products and services available alongside retail transactions during shop opening

hours, allowing Post Office services to be available for longer offering greater convenience to customers. At the new premises there would be two tills on the retail counter.

Opening hours at the proposed new location will be Monday to Friday: 06.30 – 18.00; Saturday: 07.00 – 18.00; Sunday: 07.00 – 17.30. Compared with the previous opening hours this would offer customers an extra 34.25 hours a week to access Post Office products and services. The extra hours would include Saturday afternoon, all day Sunday and significantly earlier opening hours and closer later every day.

Customers will be able to carry out a wide range of Post Office services including automated banking services, bill and budget payment schemes, Post Office card account, Postal Orders and postage; inland letters / packets (including Signed For and Special Delivery), inland parcels, international letters, small packets and printed papers.

During the public consultation Post Office Ltd welcomes feedback on any issues customers would like considered before a final decision is taken on this proposal. The consultation will close on 1 October 2013. Submissions can be made during the consultation via comments@postoffice.co.uk

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 30th August 2013

Lifejacket servicing scheme now has over 50 sites

SeaSafe Systems’ (based at Cowes, Isle of Wight) innovative Lifejacket Service Point system, launched in 2012 now has over 50 sites located around the UK. They make lifejacket servicing accessible, hassle-free and costeffective for all lifejacket users.

How does it work? Take your lifejacket to the Lifejacket Service Point at participating sites, which include Ports, Marinas and even an Engine distributor! Simply, fill in the sticky label provided by the Service Point, place your lifejacket in the bag provided, attach the label and pop it into the collection box. SeaSafe Systems will collect the box, service your lifejacket and return it back to the original drop-off point. You will have the lifejacket fully serviced and checked so you can feel safe in the knowledge it will work if it is needed It is believed that a high percentage of lifejackets are never serviced and it is estimated that a high number would fail when needed.

SeaSafe Systems’ Lifejacket Service Point scheme makes it easy for anyone on or near the water to ensure their own personal safety. The beauty of the Service Point System is that it can cater for either commercial or recreational boaters. SeaSafe

frequently receive lifejackets from Ambulance Services, Search & Rescue teams, Marine Surveyors amongst others.

The cost for a basic survey is £9.95 inc VAT, plus any replacement parts, which will be advised before any additional work is undertaken. SeaSafe will pick up the bill to cover the return delivery. The scheme covers all types of lifejackets and each serviced lifejacket is returned with a dated certificate showing any items renewed. SeaSafe has a policy of not certificating lifejackets that are over 10 years old, which doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to use the lifejacket – just that it may be time to be thinking about replacing it for a newer version.

SeaSafes’ participating Service Points are also introducing a personalised lifejacket sales scheme, to encourage everybody who uses a boat to always wear a lifejacket. There are some great cover styles available, which can be embroidered with the customers’ name or boat name. To locate your nearest Lifejacket Service Point, or for further details on how to become a Service Point, contact SeaSafe on 01983 282388 or visit the website at http://iow.me/n

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

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

“lost my sons beloved blankie”

I wondered if you would be able to help. While holidaying on the Isle of Wight we visited The Needles.

Unfortunately during our visit there on Thurs Aug 8th, we lost my sons beloved Blankie.

Isaac is 10 but has autism and his blankie means more than you could imagine. Blankie has been with Isaac since he was just a year old and is very well loved.

It was a blue blanket with Thomas the Tank Engine embroidered on him and also Isaac Baker 10-11-

2002 which is his date of birth.

Isaac has been very distressed since the loss and has sobbed and whimpered his way to sleep. We drove back to The Needles on the Friday but alas we couldn't find Blankie anywhere.

I have called multiple times and even called the ferry companies, just incase a child picked him up and left him on the ferry. If there is any way you would be able to share the picture of Blankie and maybe reunite my son and Blankie I would be hugely appreciative. /Helen Baker

If you can help locate the blankie please email press@iwmail.co.uk

Isle of Wight Sports