Issue 20 - The Isle of Wight Mail

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

The Island's free community newspaper

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luxury yacht goes up in smoke Pumpkin Lantern Competition

Remembrance Sunday Services

Campaign To Help Small Firms

A 23 metre luxury yacht caught fire and subsequently sank whilst moored at East Cowes Marina on Tuesday afternoon.

The fire took hold onboard the Kahu just after 1300 and the incident was attended by the Fire, Police and Cowes Harbour Commission Services. See Page 2

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ISSUE NUMBER 20 8th November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

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Firefighters spent hours tackling East Cowes boat blaze The Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service attended a large boat fire at East Cowes Marina on Tuesday afternoon (5th November).

Over 30 fire fighters were tackling the blaze which was reported just after 1pm.

Teams tackled the fire from onboard the yacht, from nearby pontoons, and with the assistance of Cowes Harbour Commission’s 16m Multi-Cat Seaclear.

On Tuesday night Justin Harden, Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service incident commander, said: “Although we have brought the fire under control, it remains a complex incident and we anticipate being on site for some time. We are working with a number of partner agencies, including the Environment Agency which is managing the environmental impact of the fire” Fire services advised residents to keep windows and doors closed because of the smoke and requested that people stay away from the scene while they continue to deal with the incident.

Despite this, the Kahu sadly sank at 2245 on Tuesday evening, with approximately 8,000 litres of marine diesel fuel oil on board.

Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) deployed oil spill prevention booms around the vessel during the fire.

Cowes Harbour Commission’s response was directed by Harbour Master Capt. Stuart McIntosh, who immediately activated CHC’s Harbour Emergency Plan and Oil Spill Response Plan in order to minimise the impact of any potential pollution incident arising from the sunken vessel.

Capt. Stuart McIntosh reported: “Cowes Harbour Commission has a well planned and rehearsed response for pollution incidents with back-up from specialist Oil Spill

The black smoke could be seen from Cowes

Response contractor Adler and Allan. The majority of the diesel fuel appears to be contained within the vessel’s fuel tanks. The team from Adler and Allen mobilised their oil spill emergency response unit yesterday evening, which is still on scene, and involved deploying further oil booms around the vessel to minimise any potential pollution.

“CHC has a statutory obligation to have an effective Oil Spill Response Plan in place, and our staff are trained to respond to just such an incident. We continuously review and update the plan, and hold regular exercises to test effectiveness so that we are prepared for scenarios like the unfortunate sinking of the Kahu.”

Adler and Allan are still working with Cowes Harbour Commission to contain and recover the oil from the incident on the River Medina.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

The fire could be seen from Shamblers Yard, Cowes

Partner agencies are managing the impact of the fire

Firefighters spent hours battling the blaze

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At low tide yesterday, all that could be seen of Kahu was her pulpit rails. Her anchor and some hull is apparent just below the water. In the background a temporary wreck buoy is seen. These can be seen to the North and the South of the site. Photo Credit: Sally Water Taxis

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

KAHU - CHC FOCUS NOW ON RECOVERY

Photo: CHC’s HM1 patrol rib deploying Adler and Allan’s Tier 2 pollution response oil booms around the site of the sunken Kahu in East Cowes. Credit: CHC Marine Services Manager Barney Sollars.

Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) is co-ordinating the recovery of the motor yacht Kahu from the river bed in East Cowes, and the ensuing environmental clean-up operation, following a devastating fire onboard the yacht which resulted in the vessel foundering on Tuesday night, 5 November.

The Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service (HFRS) led the emergency response to the fire on Kahu, and CHC was active in providing support and assistance.

Cowes Harbour Master Capt.

Stuart McIntosh attended all HFRS control meetings, and CHC’s Seaclear vessel was offered and proved to be extremely helpful as a water borne platform for the firefighters.

The operation is now focussed on the salvage and disposal of the Kahu, which is being co-ordinated under Cowes Harbour Master’s supervision.

Capt.

Stuart McIntosh is liaising closely with the appropriate authorities, and

said: “We are currently in discussion with the yacht owner’s insurance surveyor and developing the salvage plan, and will soon be confirming that divers and salvage companies can proceed with the salvage in accordance with the agreed salvage plan. We expect the vessel to be recovered within the next 48 hours.”

The submerged vessel is to be raised off the seabed, utilising air lift bags to bring it up to just below the water surface. A crane will then lift the hull top clear of the water level, in order to allow water in the hull to be pumped or drained out. Once this has been achieved the vessel will be placed on a bunded flat top barge for transportation to a disposal site.

“As part of the salvage operation,” continued Capt.

McIntosh, “CHC will be prioritising a detailed antipollution plan, to ensure pollution does not occur, or is minimal, during the salvage and subsequent

transportation stages. To this end, we are consulting our experts in this field, Adler and Allan, the MCA’s Counter Pollution Officer, and other appropriate authorities, such as the Solent Environment Group who are holding daily meetings whilst this incident is ongoing.”

On site at East Cowes Marina, oil booms have been deployed which can cope with the flood and ebb tides, and a 360 degree boom has been placed around the sunken vessel. These oil booms are designed to catch any oil escaping from the sunken Kahu, which is then skimmed off the water and put into tanks to be taken ashore.

It is estimated that approximately one third of the yacht’s diesel fuel has been recovered so far and removed ashore into a road waste oil tanker with the remainder still in the fuel tanks of the yacht.

Adler and Allan will continue this oil containment and removal until the risk of pollution has been eliminated, with the boat lift and

transportation completed.

Meanwhile, CHC is carrying out inspections on the River Medina and around Cowes Harbour to check for instances of pollution.

CHC is not aware of any significant environmental impact to date. Members of the public are invited to report any evidence of pollution to the Cowes Harbour Office by email via chc@cowes.co.uk or by phone on 01983 293952.

CHC has issued an Emergency Temporary General Direction . which restricts the transit of vessels over 48m in length without the written permission of the Harbour Master. A Local Notice to Mariners has also been issued, and both documents are available on the Harbour Commission’s website at cowesharbourcommission.co.uk.

CHC will issue further updates as required, during the course of the clean-up operation.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

What will BAE’s decision mean for the Isle of Wight?

During a ministerial statement made by the Rt. Hon. Philip Hammond MP about BAE System’s decision to end shipbuilding in Portsmouth, the Island’s MP Andrew Turner asked what the announcement will mean for the Isle of Wight’s economy.

BAE’s decision to build the new Type 26 frigates in the Clyde dockyard in Glasgow, will lead to the loss of over 900 jobs in Portsmouth by the end of 2014, although 11,000 will remain in the dockyards and related industries.

In the meantime the Clyde dockyard will be building three new Royal Navy patrol vessels which will ensure that skills levels are maintained.

The Minister announced that more than £100m will be invested in new infrastructure over the next three years to ensure that Portsmouth remains the largest centre in the UK for support and maintenance of surface ships. It was also disclosed that Admiral Rob Stevens, the former chief executive of the British Marine Federation, is to chair a new maritime forum advising the Solent local enterprise partnership on its maritime vision.

Mr Andrew Turner: One strength of the Isle of Wight’s economy is its historic involvement with shipbuilding; a number of my constituents work in the Portsmouth dockyard and many companies on the island are part of the supply chain. What assessment has been made of the impact of this announcement on the Isle of Wight’s economy?

Mr Hammond: I must confess to

my hon. Friend that I have not assessed the impact on the Isle of Wight economy specifically. I know, however, that the local enterprise partnerships and local authorities have been aware of these challenges for some time. If it will help my hon. Friend, I will dig out what assessments have been made by others and draw his attention to them.

Mr Turner said: “BAE’s announcement was a devastating blow to the Solent area and to the people who work in shipbuilding.

This decision has been rumoured for a long time but my heart goes out to those who found out yesterday they are likely to lose their jobs. Although this has no direct impact on the BAE Cowes radar site, there are Islanders and Island companies who will be affected by this decision. The Minister praised the constructive engagement of the unions in what has been a difficult process, and I know that locally Phil Rudd, the Unite representative at Cowes has offered to assist his mainland colleagues on this issue.

“Although the news yesterday was bad, we now need to make sure that the Island benefits from Government funding that will be going into the Solent region. To do that we will need to have a clear picture about how this decision affects us. Once I have received the information promised by the Minister I will be working with others to ensure that the Island gets the best possible deal.

I also welcome the news that there will be a new maritime forum for the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership, which includes the Isle of Wight.”

Google Streetview: BAE Cowes Site

MP Andrew Turner

Contact the news team on 01983 898 838

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Island Arts Your Fortnightly Arts Guide

Send us your arts news: kevin@iwmail.co.uk

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Island Arts The Isle of Wight is home to some amazing artistic talent, and we want to highlight it on these pages.

We want to hear about you and your activity, your successes, your events, your news … whether you are an artist, a musician, a dancer, a singer, a writer, a performance group … if in doubt, just tell us anyway!

We will, of course, be happy to report the big events, but we want Island Arts to be for everyone of any age, at whatever level they are. And we are especially keen to showcase new talent and new ideas. So please get in touch.

Tell us about your event, your exhibition, your auditions, your new commission, your need

for people to take part … whatever it is, we’ll do our best to help.

You don’t have to pay for advertising on these pages to get your story covered, but we have kept the costs really low to make it a little easier for you to raise your profile.

Obviously, we can’t promise to cover every single story that is sent to us, so there may be times when you want to be sure you have a presence on these pages, and advertising will give you that guarantee! Island Arts will be published every other week, as part of the Isle of Wight Mail newspaper Island Arts is edited by Kevin Wilson.

Send him your news and questions kevin@iwmail.co.uk

Send your event details and press releases to kevin@iwmail.co.uk

Singer songwriter Sam Holmes is back...

Friday 8th November sees the return of very talented Samantha Holmes as part of Ventnor Arts Club's exciting line up of local and visiting talent. The last time Sam played on the Island she delighted Ventnor Fringe audiences in the summer of 2012 courtesy of Vic King and his Vaguely Sunny Promotions.

With her unique style and inspirational character, singer song writer, Sam has captured the attention of audiences up and down the length of the United Kingdom.

Growing up in Northamptonshire and Oxfordshire, her father exposed her to a wide range of music early on. He took her to music festivals, folk clubs and gigs from an early age and as a result Sam has been writing and performing

for over 15 years.

Sam Holmes cites her musical heroes and inspirations from the world of folk and rock as diverse as Nick Drake, Joni Mitchell, Carole King and Amy McDonald.

These influences, although not derided from, can be heard in the craftsman ship of her songs, and the delicate romantic nature of the lyrics.

She appears at Ventnor Arts Club playing two sets of her music, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the atmosphere of the art deco space, delicious food and the intimate bar which occupies the Vault of the former NatWest bank. Book in advance on info@ventnorartsclub.com all welcome.

Members £3. Guests £5 www.ventnorartsclub.com

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Island Arts PANTO PLAN TO TRAP GIANT! There`s a unique plan afoot to catch this year`s famous pantomime monster once and for all! The meanest and most fearful Giant would shudder in his boots knowing that top TV Illusionists High Jinx will soon arrive for their Pantomime season at Newport`s Medina Theatre armed with plenty of magical tricks ready to capture the famous beast in Jack and the Beanstalk.

“We don’t know if the Giant really exists,” said master illusionist Michael Jordan who will be playing Jack, “But we are certainly going to make sure we find out!” he said bravely.

“I`m a little scared in case we actually manage to catch the Giant,” trembles Tamsyn Sear who will be playing Jack`s girlfriend, Jill. “I’ve heard his huge voice that can make a whole building shake!”

High Jinx will be coming direct from their long-running residency at the world famous

Blackpool Pleasure Beach resort where they have been starring in their own family show performing up to twice daily since the spring. “Blackpool is still seen as the UK`s answer to Las Vegas, “Michael says.

“Although it’s really hard work and great fun there, it won’t be half as exciting as becoming Jack the Giant catcher in Pantomime this year. I can’t wait!”

Michael explains that he hasn’t yet decided which Giant trap he will be using, “It could be my Crusher Illusion, or Spiker Box, or even my new secret Excalibur illusion which I am having especially sent over from America,” he declared.

Whatever method the master magician chooses, any lurking giants better beware!

Performances daily from December Dec 21-30 2013 Box Office 01983 527020 Book Online at www.medinatheatre.co.uk

Join the "I love #panto because..." Campaign Saturday 7th December marks Panto Day's third anniversary.

Originally an experiment to see whether #panto could trend on Twitter, Panto Day has since gone on to become a major event in Pantoland's diary. Last year's Panto Day celebrations saw official Panto Day hashtag ‘#panto’ reach over 1.5 million Twitter users, with the Panto Advice Page and 'Day in the Life of Pantoland' bloggers and livetweeters proving popular with panto passionistas around the world.

2013 sees Panto Day add YouTube to its social media celebrations with new campaign "I love #panto because..."

Panto passionistas, casts, crews and companies are being encouraged to get creative and film a short video sharing their panto love with the world before uploading it to YouTube, tweeting it and posting it on Facebook. To be featured in Panto Day’s official YouTube channel play list at www.youtube.com/celebratepanto , videos should be titled “I love #panto because…” / “We love #panto because…” and be

uploaded to YouTube before Saturday 7th December.

Panto Day Co-ordinator Simon Sladen said: "We are really looking forward to finding out exactly what it is that people love about this great British art form.

Will it be the Dame and her outlandish frocks? Shouting ’It’s Behind You!’ during the Ghost Gag? Or participating in a centuries old tradition with friends and family? Pantomime has always embraced the latest technology and in our third year, it seems only fitting weshould embrace YouTube to share the joys of pantomime with the world.” Newport`s pantomime producer, Chris Gidney, who will be presenting Jack and the Beanstalk at the Medina Theatre this Christmas added, ‘There are lots of people on the Isle of Wight who always attend a pantomime each year at the Medina and who thoroughly enjoy the experience. So perhaps some of these folks can support this campaign that has been set up to help keep this traditional artform going.’

‘What will you tweet or post on Facebook for Panto Day 2013?’

New home for Original Theatre Original Theatre celebrates its first appearance at its new venue, the Newport Minster, on Thursday November 21, with a final performance of the prize winning play, On the Bridge.

The play was premiered at Quay Arts on November 2, and is also being performed at The London Theatre, New Cross, and the Nuffield Theatre, Southampton.

The play won Original Theatre's

playwriting competition, From Page to Stage, and tells the dark and humorous story of two men who are self appointed guardians of a bridge famous for suicide attempts. They won't let anyone pass until they have told them their intentions.

Tickets are available online at wegottickets.com/originaltheatre, or by calling 01983 304130

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

NOMINATE A STAR LEARNER FOR NATIONAL AWARDS The Isle of Wight Council is encouraging residents and organisations to nominate outstanding individuals, apprentices, projects and employers for next year's Adult Learners' Week Awards.

The awards are an opportunity to recognise outstanding learning achievements and celebrate success in lifelong learning. In recent years individuals from the Isle of Wight have been recognised via these awards because learning has made a significant difference to their lives.

Soo Scott from Carers Isle of Wight won a national award after returning to university study to become a psychiatric nurse.

Elizabeth Martin won a regional award after volunteering for the Partlands Day Centre and the Riverside Centre before returning to college study, and Olivia Faber won a regional award for her achievement of Open College Network qualifications with Bodster Equine Assisted Learning Centre, where she has since gone on to work as a volunteer.

It is hoped more Island learners will be recognised at next year's regional and national awards. The Isle of Wight Council adult community learning service will be hosting a celebration event in July 2014 to recognise nominees from the Island.

The Isle of Wight Council is encouraging residents and organisations to nominate outstanding individuals, apprentices, projects and employers for next year's Adult Learners' Week Awards.

The awards are an opportunity to recognise outstanding learning achievements and celebrate success in lifelong learning. In recent years individuals from the Isle of Wight have been recognised via these awards because learning has made a significant difference to their lives.

Soo Scott from Carers Isle of Wight won a national award after returning to university study to become a psychiatric nurse.

Elizabeth Martin won a regional award after volunteering for the Partlands Day Centre and the Riverside Centre before returning to college study, and Olivia Faber won a regional award for her achievement of Open College Network qualifications with Bodster Equine Assisted Learning

Boutique B&B could provide dream business

Centre, where she has since gone on to work as a volunteer.

It is hoped more Island learners will be recognised at next year's regional and national awards. The Isle of Wight Council adult community learning service will be hosting a celebration event in July 2014 to recognise nominees from the Island.

Next year's award categories will include the following groups Individual Award - to recognise the outstanding achievements of adults of all ages who have undertaken learning of all kinds.

Apprentice Award - to recognise the valuable contribution that apprentices make to the economy, celebrating the training and skills they have developed, and the impact they have had on business.

Project Award - to recognise projects that have made a positive difference to learners' development.

Employer Award - to recognise investment in outstanding staff training and development.

Cabinet member responsible for education, councillor Richard Priest said: "Learning is incredibly important throughout life, not just in childhood so I am delighted that examples of outstanding adult learning are being recognised nationally.

"The Isle of Wight Council provides a wide range of learning programmes in community settings to support personal development, wellbeing and community spirit and we are aware of many other organisations carrying out fantastic work which enriches peoples' lives through learning.

"I hope people will take the time to nominate deserving individuals and groups so that the great work being carried out here on the Island can be recognised at a national level and inspire more adults to engage in learning activities."

For a full list of awards and details of how to nominate an individual or organisation, visit www.alw.org.uk/awards/2014.

To find out more about the range of adult and family learning opportunities provided by the Isle of Wight Council, visit www.iwcommunitylearning.ac.uk/, or contact Chris Groves on 01983 817280.

Couples looking for a midlife career switch are taking another look at the B&B as the perfect alternative to the nine-to-five routine.

Hotels specialist Simon Wells from Colliers International has a number of likely properties on the South coast which could fit the bill for potential owners in search of a more relaxed lifestyle.

He said: “The B&B sector is unique in the hospitality industry in that profit and lifestyle really do go hand in hand. Enquiries begin to peak as the weather starts to turn and people head back to the daily grind wishing there was a realistic alternative. Well running a contemporary B&B might just be it.

Simon Wells said the typical seaside B&B is a great British institution and often a seasonal operation – allowing owners to open as much or as little as they like.

He said: “The Havelock in Shanklin on the Isle of Wight is a great example of property available. It is operated on a seven and a half month trading season giving its owners a great work-life balance.”

Originally built as a gentleman's residence it is on the market at £975,000 freehold, it is superbly presented and is very profitable. It has 22 letting bedrooms and a two-bedroom apartment for owners or managers.

In fact we are advised that the business generates enough profits that it could support a 65 per cent mortgage, subject to the usual application procedures.

Simon Wells said: “Comfortable and stylish without being ostentatious, the Havelock is ideally positioned between the quaint Old Village and the seafront.”

Local attractions include Shanklin Chine with its 45 foot waterfall and heritage museum, Godshill Model Village, Sandown Zoo, the Blackgang Chine and the renowned Needles. Access to the island is easy with a short crossing on the Portsmouth to Fishbourne car ferry or train from Ryde .

“The opportunity to run a quality business from the comfort of your own home is proving popular and we do not anticipate it will be very long before this property is snapped up by an astute buyer.”

Also on the South Coast, Simon Wells has sold Relish in Folkestone.

He said: “We had two bidders after that one and in the New Forest we have no fewer than seven buyers after two hotels.”

The Colliers International website currently features over 60 different B&B properties from all over the UK at a wide range of prices.

Colliers International has also produced a roadmap for buying a business and that is available on their website too, but if you need help and guidance then do get in touch.

For details, contact Simon Wells, hotels director, Colliers International, Bristol on 0117 917 2000 or Paul Barrasford, who covers the South East from our London Office, on 0207 344 6963.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

The Quintinshill Conspiracy The Shocking True Story Behind Britain's Worst Rail Disaster It was the railway’s 'Titanic'. A horrific crash involving five trains in which 230 died and 246 were injured, it remains the worst disaster in the long history of Britain’s rail network. The location was the isolated signal box at Quintinshill, on the Anglo-Scottish border near Gretna; the date, 22 May 1915. Amongst the dead and injured were women and children, but most of the casualties were Scottish soldiers on their way to fight in the Gallipoli campaign. Territorials setting off for war on a distant battlefield were to die, not in battle, but on home soil – victims, it was said, of serious incompetence and a shoddy regard for procedure in the signal box, resulting in two signalmen being sent to prison.

However, startling new evidence reveals that the failures which led to the disaster were far more complex and widereaching than signalling negligence.

Using previously undisclosed documents, the authors have been able to access official records from the time and have

BOOK COMPETITION Win a copy of the Quintinshill Conspiracy Question: How many trains were involved?

TEXT THE ANSWER TO 07413 599 446 OR EMAIL PRESS@IWMAIL.CO.UK

The new book from Isle of Wight Authors

uncovered a highly shocking and controversial truth behind what actually happened at Quintinshill and the extraordinary attempts to hide the facts.

Hoping to start a career in Customer Service?

WightFibre, an established Telecommunications company and Internet provider based in Cowes are looking for an Apprentice Customer Service Representative.

You would be dealing with telephone and internet queries, covering reception and dealing with customers face to face as well as a range of administrative duties.

This is a great opportunity to join a successful and ambitious business that's keen to develop and mentor it's staff with a view to them progressing to other area's within the company.

Off the job training will be

provided by the Isle of Wight College at the end of which you will gain an Intermediate Level 2 Certification in Customer Service.

Being an apprenticeship scheme pay is £120 over a 40 hour week.

If you would like to apply for this position, please contact WightFibre on 01983 240240

Adrian Searle was born and bred on the island, beginning his career as a journalist with the Isle of Wight County Press. He left the island in 1971 to pursue career development in various parts of the country, returning in 1984 to edit the (now defunct) Isle of Wight Weekly Post.

While not a native of the island, Jack lived there for virtually all of his life and was still an island resident at the time of his sudden death in April. He was well-known in many spheres of activity, principally as a music teacher but also for his work over many years for railway development and passenger interests, and his research into complex historical rail issues.

Maternity services in England NHS maternity services provide good outcomes and positive experiences for most women, but there are significant and unexplained variations in performance around the country, according to a from the National Audit Office. Since the 2007 Maternity Matters strategy, there has been improvement in maternity services, with more midwifery-led units, greater consultant presence on labour wards, and progress against the government’s commitment to increase midwife numbers.

However, there is wide variation between trusts in performance in respect of quality and safety, cost and efficiency.

The Department did not fully consider the implications of delivering the ambitions set out in its strategy. The Department has failed to demonstrate that it satisfactorily considered the achievability and affordability of implementing the strategy, and it has not regularly or comprehensively monitored national progress against it.

The report points out that, in 2011, one in 133 babies was

stillborn or died within several days of birth. The mortality rate has fallen over time, but comparisons with the other UK nations suggest scope for further improvement. The performance of individual trusts in relation to rates of complication and medical intervention varies widely. Litigation in maternity care is rising. Trusts paid £482 million for maternity clinical negligence cover in 2012-13, equating to around a fifth of spending on maternity services.

Increasing the presence of consultants on labour wards may result in better decision-making and outcomes. The level of consultant presence has substantially improved but over half of maternity units (including all of the largest units) do not meet recommended levels.

The number of midwives has increased but the NHS is not meeting a widely recognised benchmark of one midwife to 29.5 births. The government has commissioned more places to study midwifery, but it is unclear whether these will be enough to meet future demand.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

FREE PARKING TO HELP SUPPORT NEW CHRISTMAS LOCAL BUSINESS INITIATIVE The Isle of Wight Council will provide free parking in its car parks for a day in the run up to Christmas as part of a new initiative aimed at boosting local businesses.

On Saturday 7 December, the council will not charge to park in any of its car parks as part of an event called 'Small Business Saturday'. The event, which also involves the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce, Visit Isle of Wight and the Federation of Small Businesses, is based on an American scheme which has seen sales in small businesses boosted by around $5.5 billion in the USA. The first Saturday in December is traditionally one of the busiest for shopping and the Isle of Wight Council's cabinet member responsible for tourism and economy Shirley Smart, said: "We hope by waiving charges in our car parks for a day will encourage lots of people to visit towns and villages and buy local for Christmas.

"Businesses can also play a part to take advantage of the increase in shoppers. Perhaps they can offer special deals or vouchers, maybe free refreshments for example to try and entice the extra people through their doors.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to support local business ahead of Christmas and I am sure it will be welcomed by the public and business owners."

Councillor Jon Gilbey is

responsible for resources which includes parking. He added: "This day demonstrates our commitment in supporting local businesses.

"The council is currently developing a new parking strategy and this event fits in with our new approach to the way we want to make council car parks more accessible and affordable to Island residents and visitors."

Kevin Smith, chief executive officer of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce supports the event, saying: "We are delighted to be working in conjunction with our partners for Small Business Saturday.

"This is a fantastic opportunity for all local businesses to promote themselves and contribute to the growth of the Island's economy."

The Federation of Small Businesses is also getting behind the initiative and their vicechairman Norman Arnold said: "We are very pleased to be actively supporting Small Business Saturday. Our members are going to seize this opportunity to show just what independent Island business can do."

The free parking on Saturday 7 December will apply to all councilrun car parks across the Island. It will not apply to private-run car parks or on-street parking in town and village centres.

Further details about Small Business Saturday will be announced over the coming weeks.

Know your overseas shopping limits this Christmas Christmas shoppers looking for bargains overseas have been warned not to get hit by unexpected charges, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) cautioned today.

Travellers going abroad to do Christmas shopping, or shoppers buying goods online from non-EU countries, are advised to check how much they can buy before customs duty or import VAT are due.

HMRC Head of Customs Policy, Angela Shephard, said: “We know many people from the South like to go abroad at this time to buy their Christmas gifts, or buy online from non-EU countries, and think that the ‘cheaper’ price they see is always the price they finally pay.

This is a reminder to everyone

NEW CARD MAKES BOOKING SHORT BREAKS ACTIVITIES SIMPLER The Isle of Wight Council is making it easier for parents or carers of children or young people who have a disability and/or additional needs to access short breaks activities.

The short breaks team have introduced a new free card which means parents or carers can show this to activity providers without having to fill in enrolment forms each time.

'Short breaks' are designed to allow parents and carers of children and young people aged 0 - 19 who have a disability and/or additional needs some time off from looking after them. This could be from a few hours to an overnight stay.

Richard Priest is the Isle of Wight Council's cabinet member for children's services and says the card will make it much easier to access activities.

He said: "Being required to fill out a registration form at every short breaks activity can be time consuming and indeed frustrating for some parents or guardians.

"This new card means the only form they'll ever need to complete is one registration form per child or young person to access the whole short breaks programme, which includes the

subsidised activity sessions and facilities. Once they have the card, they simply book onto an activity they want for their child or young person using their card number and then show the provider the card on the day.

"Caring for a child or young person who has a disability and/or additional needs can be very stressful for parents or carers and I hope by introducing the gateway card, it will make it easier to access short breaks activities. It is a little something that we hope will go a long way."

Parents or carers of children or young people who have a disability and/or additional needs are required to register for the card to access short breaks activities. You can register online by going to www.iwight.com/shortbreaks.

Alternatively, a registration form is available from the Family Information Zone (FIZ) in Newport (next to Newport Library) which can be sent back freepost to: Freepost RTCJHYSH-CSYL, Isle of Wight Council, CYADS Unit 4, Short Breaks Children's Services, County Hall, Newport, Isle of Wight.

PO30 1UD

Memorial Ploughing Match

Sunday 6th April 2014 (9.30am to 4:30pm) New Wolverton Farm, Shorwell, PO30 3LH (by kind permission of Prof and Mrs Williams)

about how much they can actually bring back from abroad or buy from an online overseas seller without having to pay customs duty or import VAT. “Shoppers must always be cautious with websites that say they will undervalue your goods so you won’t pay VAT or offer famous ‘brand’ names at very low prices.

HMRC knows about these sites and people may end up paying more or having goods seized when they think they have found a bargain.”

Watch vintage and conventional tractors ploughing alongside heavy horses.

Entry is FREE, but any money collected on the day will go to the Earl Mountbatten Hospice.

Refreshments available.

www.memorialploughingmatch.co.uk

15

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Island’s First Self Care Fair Helps Support Those Living With Long-Term Conditions Organisations and groups from across the Island will be setting out their stalls at the Island’s first Self Care Fair at Downside Community and Learning Centre, Furrlongs, Newport on 20 November, to help provide information and support to those living with long-term conditions The event, part of a national annual event – Self Care Week – which runs from 18-23 November is designed to help people living with a long-term condition - such as diabetes, arthritis, cancer and cardio-vascular problems - to care for themselves with access to support and information in the community.

Carers, families and friends of those living with long-term conditions and health and social care professionals are also encouraged to attend to find out more about the services and support available. Representatives from a wide variety of organisations including Age UK IW, Carers UK, Action on Hearing Loss, Alzheimer’s

Society Dementia advisors, Isle of Wight Chronic Pain Support Group, Community Nurses, Wessex Cancer Trust and many others will be on hand to provide information at the event which will be open from 10.30am -2.30pm.

Organised jointly by People Matter and Community Action Isle of Wight and supported by the NHS Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group and Isle of Wight Council, the fair is part of the My Life, a Full Life programme, a new initiative to get health, social care services, voluntary and community groups working together more effectively and efficiently to help improve the lives of people needing care and support.

Alison Geddes, Clinical Commissioning Manager for Long-Term Conditions said, “Many people living with longterm conditions simply want a bit of extra support to enable them to remain independent and manage their own health and care, but

“DEEPLY DISAPPOINTED” BY ABSENCE OF COMPANIES The Mayor of Ryde, Isle of Wight Councillor Wayne Whittle, told local residents attending a recent meeting to discuss flooding in North East Ryde that he was “deeply disappointed” that neither Island Roads nor Southern Water had considered the matter sufficiently important that they should attend.

Speaking after the meeting of the Ryde North East Flood Group, held on Tuesday 5th November at Joe’s Bar in Ryde, Cllr Whittle said: “Meetings of those in the community concerned about flood damage have been held when necessary over a period of nearly 4 years since the floods of 2010. We have historically had good engagement from all key stakeholders including the Environment Agency, the Highways Department and the Fire Service. Southern Water has also attended in the past. I am deeply disappointed that neither Southern Water nor Island Roads, who have taken over from the Highways Department, felt able to attend to hear first hand the frustrations of local residents and businesses.”

The meeting heard that the recent storms had caused three local properties to flood, requiring pumping out by the Fire Service.

Local residents were angry that neither Southern Water nor Island Roads were present to talk. In particular, Adam Poulter, owner of the flooded Trentham Guest House in the Strand, was particularly frustrated that after several years in a row in which his property had been flooded no solution seemed to be in the pipeline. Cllr Whittle added: “We will be meeting again on January 21st at 5pm at Joe’s bar, and I sincerely hope all those who need to work together to deliver solutions will be present.”

they aren’t always aware of the wide range of support on offer right on their doorstep.

“We hope this event will put people in touch with those organisations and groups that can offer them support and advice so they can seek that extra bit of support that enables them to manage their health better and to live their life to the full.”

The event is free to attend and refreshments will also be available in the adjacent cafe at the Isobel Centre.

Those attending are also invited to drop in to the Independent Living Centre which will also be open on the day of the fair. The centre offers a free and impartial service to Island residents who are looking for equipment and advice to enhance their independence and enable them to continue living in their own home. The centre has rooms set up as the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom to enable people to try out aids and adaptations in a more realistic setting.

Teenager hit by car that failed to stop Police are appealing for information after a driver failed to stop following a collision with a pedestrian in Cowes.

The incident happened at about 5.30pm on Tuesday, October 29, when a 14-year-old boy was crossing Adelaide Grove, East Cowes and was hit by a car pulling out of Yarsborough Road.

He described the car as either a black Renault or Citroen being driven by a woman.

The youngster, who was knocked to the ground, sustained a shoulder injury as well as torn skin to the left elbow and a grazed left hip.

PC Paul Neill said: “We are appealing for anyone who may have seen this incident or the driver herself to come forward and get in Anyone with information can contact PC Paul Neill at Newport Police Station by phoning 101.

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

Alexander Graham Bell Osborne Demonstration letter released Although it was the private home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, Osborne also had a glittering guest list as it played host to many leading national and international figures of society and politics. Over the next two weekends of the 9th and 10th November and the 16th and 17th November 2013, Osborne’s guides will be leading ‘Footsteps of the Famous’ tours designed to shed light on these private visits.

Visitors will also see where Alexander Graham Bell was invited to demonstrate his acoustic telegraph or “telephone” to Queen Victoria at Osborne on Monday 14 January 1878. Bell’s invention had only recently been patented and the publicity gained from the experiments at Osborne certainly added to the fame of his telephone. Bell clearly thought the demonstration a great success. On the 18 January 1878, Bell wrote to his near neighbour in London, Frederick Aldridge Ormiston 1, an electrician and engineer, who had helped him at Osborne. For the first time images of this letter have been released by English Heritage to

coincide with the first 'In the Footsteps of the Famous' guided tours.

Photo: Alexander Graham Bell letter about his demonstration at Osborne © English Heritage 2013)

07413 599 446 press@iwmail.co.uk

16

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

MP Questions about Job Centre sanctions Following the news that the Isle of Wight Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) has experienced a higher number of enquiries about sanctions on benefits than elsewhere in the country, Andrew Turner, the Island’s MP has tabled a question to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Iain Duncan Smith MP. He wants to find out whether the experience of the Island’s CAB is borne out by official Government statistics. Mr Turner revealed that he has also been contacted by Islanders about some ‘deeply worrying’ cases which indicate

that the system locally is not operating as it should.

The Island’s CAB has revealed they have seen a 120% increase in cases compared to the same period last year – almost double the national rate. Mr Turner said : “I have seen a number of worrying cases myself, and there is one particular national supplier of employment & work programmes operating on the Island that has cropped up a number of times.

For instance, one lady had a benefit sanction applied for failure to attend a mandatory work placement. The work programme

Woman seriously assaulted and robbed in Newport Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was seriously assaulted and robbed in Newport at around 12.25am in the early hours of Sunday morning (3 November) The victim, a 54-year-old woman, was walking home from town when she was approached by a man in the area of Caesars Road, Newport who has stolen her handbag.

In the process he has punched her, leaving her with a fractured nose and a fractured arm, extensive bruising and the possibility that she may even loose some teeth.

The black handbag contained a mobile phone, bank cards, make up, keys and cash.

The victim described the man as white, about 6ft tall with a bald head. He spoke with a foreign accent. Investigating Officer DS Gary Lyons of Newport DCID said: “This is a very unusual crime in the amount of violence used

and occurred in a quiet residential area.

“This would have been a very frightening ordeal for the victim and I am appealing for anyone with any information about this incident to come forward. Were you in the area at the time? Did you see anyone matching the description hanging around the area or making their way from the scene?

“The stolen handbag is still missing, if you spot it please contact the police first and do not handle it.

“I would also like to appeal to anyone with private CCTV in the area to speak to us as this may help with our enquiries into identifying the suspect.”

Anyone with information can contact DS Gary Lyons at Newport DCID by phoning 101.

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

SALLY WATER TAXIS Sally Water Taxis are the largest and longest standing water taxi provider in Cowes Harbour and the Medina.

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provider claimed to have spoken to somebody who answered her mobile phone to tell her about the placement. However I have seen evidence that suggests the phone had been cut-off because the bill hadn’t been paid on the date they claim to have made the call. That is deeply worrying and I have raised her case directly with Iain Duncan Smith. I also tabled a Parliamentary question yesterday to see if there is a higher percentage of benefit sanctions on the Island than elsewhere in the country.

“If people are not actively trying

to find work then they are not entitled to claim Jobseekers Allowance.

There must be sanctions for those that abuse the system because benefits are there to provide a safety net, not a lifestyle choice. There is public support for welfare reforms, but that will disappear if sanctions are not applied fairly and consistently.

Mr Turner encouraged anybody suffering similar problems to contact him and said that he is getting in touch with the CAB to see if the information they have available can help him get to the bottom of the problems.

Drug treatment performing well but faces big challenges

Drug treatment in England continued to perform well in 2012 to 2013, helping just over 29,000 people to recover from addiction.

According to the latest annual adult statistics released by Public Health England, specialist services remained easy to access for people who need help, with 98% waiting under three weeks to get into treatment.

In 2012 to 2013, the overall number of people in treatment continued to fall, as did the number of people starting treatment for heroin and crack cocaine, particularly among younger age groups. These positive trends echo the overall decline in drug use and the move away from the most problematic substances.

However treatment is now facing a series of significant challenges in sustaining this high performance: The treatment population is ageing – the over 40s are now the largest group starting and

receiving treatment. Many are older heroin users who have failing health and entrenched addiction problems. This group is particularly hard to help into lasting recovery. The impact is beginning to show in the proportion of people successfully completing treatment, which has levelled off in 2012 to 2013 following an increasing trend over the previous 7 years.

While services need to address the demands of this large and complicated group, they also need to adapt and respond effectively to changing patterns in drug use and the needs of the wider population, such as those who get into problems with new psychoactive substances (sometimes called ‘legal highs’) and prescription or over-thecounter medicines.

PHE’s mission is to protect and improve the nation’s health and to address inequalities through working with national and local government, the NHS, industry & the voluntary sector.

17

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

INVESTMENT & CAMPAIGN TO HELP SMALL FIRMS Business Secretary Vince Cable has kicked off a wave of activity to boost small businesses, including unveiling the first funding allocation from the British Business Bank's investment programme and launching a campaign to help small firms grow.

The first £45 million of funding is to be committed to Praesidian Capital Europe (£30 million) and BMS Finance (£15 million) to provide debt finance of approximately £125 million through their respective new funds. Once legal terms are agreed it is expected that both funds will start lending to small businesses in early 2014.

In addition to this, Vince Cable also set out other measures that will provide support to small businesses. These include: A new £1 million Sector Mentoring Challenge Fund that will enable firms to benefit from support and advice from experienced business people in their own field of work A £10 million synthetic biology start up fund from the Biotechnology and Biological Science Research Council (BBSRC) to help entrepreneurial scientists working in synthetic biology get their business off the ground The successful Growth Accelerator scheme, which provides specialised coaching to small businesses with highgrowth potential, will have helped 10,000 firms in the coming weeks.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said: “We have set out a comprehensive package of measures that will address the concerns of small firms.

“The first investments from the British Business Bank’s investment programme will provide choice to smaller businesses looking to secure vital finance to help invest. Alongside cutting red tape and increasing the take up of business rate relief, Government has already made significant progress in improving the business outlook for small firms and entrepreneurs.”

A new business support website, www.greatbusiness.gov.uk will also make it easy to access the services and products, including Manufacturing Advice Service, National Apprenticeship Service and Growth Accelerator, that help businesses grow. The website will be supported by an

advertising campaign showcasing the very best in British small businesses, to help inspire other small businesses to take steps to grow. This is the first domestic use of the GREAT campaign.

Skills and Enterprise Minister Matthew Hancock said: “Small firms are a vital driver of our economy’s success, so it is imperative we do all we can to ensure businesses don’t just survive, but thrive to compete in the global race.

“We have set out today the start of our ambitious plans to help small businesses realise their potential and the support available to them to help them grow. Government has an important role in providing a coherent package of measures to support businesses, but there is also a role for business-tobusiness support, with successful, growing small businesses talking to others about how exporting, hiring and business planning can take a business to the next level.”

Isle of Wight firm AJ Wells & Sons, will feature in the new Britain is GREAT adverts. The advert states that the firm haven’t looked back since their stoves were welcomed into homes overseas and aims to encourage other firms to find out how to export.

The engineering company, started by Alfred Wells and his two sons in 1972, have built a world-class manufacturer- from its Charnwood range of stoves to the iconic enamel London Underground roundels.

More than 40 years on, Charnwood stoves now account for 80 per cent of A.J Wells’ turnover, which was more than £15 million last year. A key part of their businesses success is due to selling abroad. From the Isle of Wight this family firm exports to more than ten European countries, and also to Japan, South Africa, the Middle East and Canada. Around 20 per cent of the company’s turnover is export generated.

A winner of a Queens Awards for Enterprise the company has spent the past decade focused on selling its products abroad, with help from agencies like UKTI. Co-founder and Managing Director John Wells, was at the London launch today.

At the start of 2013 there were an estimated 791,000 private sector businesses in the South East. 40 successful Regional

Growth Fund (RGF) applications were received across the East, South East and London, worth £240 million, with RGF expected to generate up to £1.4 billion of private sector investment, creating or safeguarding up to 42,000 jobs in the region. In addition 1552 businesses in the South East have signed up to GrowthAccelerator, which sees proven business experts working with companies to coach and identify barriers to growth and ways to overcome them.

There are 4.9 million small businesses in the UK, and providing them with the tools they need to thrive is an important task for Government to ensure the recovery of the economy. In December, the Government will publish a strategy for small businesses with the ambition to grow, setting out how it will make it easier for them to do so through a range of measures, including improving access to finance and help to export and innovate.

18

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

COUNCIL SEEKS VIEWS ON STREET TRADING POLICY The Isle of Wight Council is asking residents for their views on street trading as the local authority is updating its street trading policy.

The current policy has been place since 2008 and allows trading in a public place as long as permission is granted from the council’s licensing department.

Ice cream vans, fast food vehicles and markets are examples of street trading and usually all require permission to trade.

The council is asking residents including business owners and street traders to complete an online questionnaire. The responses to this will help the authority produce an updated policy which represents the needs and views of the Island residents and business community.

Among other areas, the questionnaire asks for people's views on various street trading matters including what should be considered when determining an application and where street trading can take place.

Jonathan Bacon is the Isle of Wight Council's cabinet member who has

responsibility for licensing as part of his portfolio. He said: "It is important the council's street trading policy is updated as the current one is several years old.

"We do appreciate and understand that street trading does have an important role to play in the local economy. Therefore we want to hear the views of the public and indeed street traders and business owners as well as town and parish councils so we can produce an effective street trading policy that is fair for everyone."

To take part in the consultation, people should log on to www.iwight.com and go the consultations section which can be found under the 'Your Council' tab on the home page.

Alternatively, paper copies are available by emailing the council's licensing department at licensing@iow.gov.uk or by post to:Isle of Wight Council Licensing, Jubilee Stores The Quay, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 2EH The consultation runs until 5pm on Monday 2 December.

PUBLIC NOTICE MARINE AND COASTAL ACCESS ACT 2009 APPLICATION FOR LANDING STAGE AND SLIPWAY REPLACEMENT, SEAVIEW Notice is hereby given that Sea View Yacht Club Limited has applied to the Marine Management Organisation under the Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009, Part 4, for a marine licence to undertake construction of a landing stage and slipway replacement. Plans showing the position of the works may be inspected at Ryde Library, 101 George Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 2JE. Library opening hours; Monday 9.00am – 5.30pm, Tuesday 9.00am - 5.30pm, Wednesday 10.30am – 7.00pm, Thursday CLOSED, Friday 9.00am - 5.30pm, Saturday 9.00am - 5.00pm and Sunday CLOSED. Copies of the Application and associated information may be viewed on line in the Public Register at www.marinemanagement.org.uk/publicregister.

Representations or objections in respect of the application should be made in writing, giving an address to which correspondence relating to the representation or objection may be sent, to the Marine Management Organisation, Lancaster House, Hampshire Court, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 7YH, or alternatively emailed to siobhan.sherry@marinemanagement.org.uk, within 28 days of Friday 25th October, quoting reference MLA/2013/00403.

The Marine Management Organisation will pass to the applicant a copy of any objection or representation we receive.

Two serious case reviews published by Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Board

Reports have been published by the Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Board following two serious case reviews.

The full overview report has been published for one case (Baby T). For the second case, the Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Board has published the findings and recommendations. The board considers that providing more of the information and analysis relating to this Serious Case Review would significantly compromise the welfare of children involved.

The reviews found that, although in both cases, examples of good practice were demonstrated by some agencies, areas of weakness were revealed on the part of others’. Recommendations for improvement are detailed in the published reports.

The newly appointed Chair of the Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Board, Maggie Blyth, commented: “Whenever a child has been the victim of harm it is deeply distressing and a cause of great sadness. It is vital therefore that the events leading to such situations and the actions of the professionals involved are thoroughly scrutinised.

“Protecting vulnerable children is the responsibility of many agencies and the reports of their involvement in these two cases have been considered by the independent review panels which have examined

how they responded in each case and identified whether more could have been done to protect the children involved.

“In January 2013 an Ofsted inspection found child protection arrangements on the Isle of Wight to be failing and judged them 'inadequate’. The two reviews published today relate to incidents that occurred before the inspection so it is therefore not surprising that the review findings mirror those of Ofsted. In January 2013 the government issued Children’s Services with an improvement direction. It is acknowledged that since January 2013 however, a great deal of work has taken place to strengthen children’s social care on the Island, including the implementation of a range of measures to improve front line services. It is self-evident however, that there are no quick fixes to these problems and time will be needed to ensure sustained improvement.

I am sure that the messages from these reviews will contribute to that improvement.

We owe that much to the children concerned.

“The Isle of Wight Safeguarding Children Board will be working closely with all partner agencies to ensure the recommendations from these two serious case reviews are taken forward without delay.”

Copies of the reports can be found at http://iow.me/16

07413 599 446 | 01983 898 838 Email the newsdesk : press@iwmail.co.uk

20

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

MODERN OPEN-PLAN YARMOUTH POST OFFICE AT NEW LOCATION WITH SIGNIFICANTLY LONGER OPENING HOURS The Post Office is relocating Yarmouth Post Office next door to Holdings, Quay Street, Yarmouth.

It will be a new ‘local’ style openplan branch with significantly longer opening hours for customers.

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 Post Office service 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.”

The new opening hours will be Monday to Friday 06:30 - 18:00; Saturday: 07.00 18.00; Sunday: 07.00 – 17.30.

Post Office customers will benefit from opening hours being extended by 34 hours a week. The extra hours would include Saturday afternoon, all day Sunday and significantly earlier opening hours and close later every day.

The new local style Post Office will operate from two open plan

tills, located at the shop counter, enabling customers to carry out a wide range of Post Office products and services alongside retail transactions.

The new operator will carry out works to improve access and create space for customers using the shop and Post Office. A new entrance ramp will be installed at the entrance before the new Post Office branch opens.

We are working closely with the new operator to ensure the internal layout meets Post Office specifications. Some fixtures, fittings and displays will be realigned or removed for unimpeded access. Aisles will be kept clear and adequate room provided for customers and wheelchair users to manoeuvre.

A separate queuing area will be provided at the Post Office till points to provide adequate customer privacy.

There are also plans to install an external cash machine, subject to planning permission.

The Post Office, now independent of Royal Mail, is the largest retail network in the UK, with over 11,500 branches. It is also one of the fastest growing financial services companies and is developing its online and telephony services.

The date of the relocation will be announced in due course.

New Island Business Forum A business forum aimed at giving a united voice meets for the first time today. Existing organisations including the Island’s Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, the FSB and various local business associations have confirmed their attendance. The Ryde North East councillor and Conservative spokesman for business, Wayne Whittle is behind the new initiative and is working with the Island’s MP to establish a single body that brings together the existing work of various organisations. Mr Whittle said: “I hope that businessmen and anybody else who is interested in supporting our local economy will come along on Friday morning to the inaugural meeting of the Island Business Forum. We plan to consider the Council’s plans for temporary traders at our first meeting and will also discuss a business response to the Council’s plans to scrutinise the ferry companies. We are likely to

organise a small delegation to attend the Ferry scrutiny meetings in order to give evidence putting forward the views and needs of the IBF members “I know that many businessmen have a keen interest in both these issues” Mr Turner added: “It is very good news that the existing business organisations are coming together and I hope that companies who are not a member of any of these bodies will see this as a forum where their voice can also be heard.

There will be no membership fees – so I hope that in time it will grow to be an influential forum for businesses both big and small. I am very pleased to be working with Wayne on this important initiative.”

It would be helpful if those who intend to join the meeting could let Mr Turner’s office know by emailing mail@islandmp.com.

Listen online at

wightislandradio.com

Isle of Wight

21

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Changes to red diesel rules for agricultural vehicles From the 1st November 2013 the rules on the use of red diesel have changed, allowing users of agricultural tractors, light agricultural vehicles and agricultural material handlers in the South to use red diesel in their vehicles when gritting public roads.

These changes follow an overwhelmingly positive response to a public consultation by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) http://iow.me/15 Previously, only vehicles constructed or adapted solely for gritting roads were allowed to use red diesel for gritting purposes.

This restriction prevented farmers from using their tractors and other agricultural vehicles that are ordinarily fuelled with red diesel to respond quickly to adverse weather conditions.

HMRC accepts that due to their

design and off-road capability, these can often be the most suitable vehicles for snow clearance and gritting, whether this is through the attachment or trailing of equipment or the simple transportation of material to be spread manually.

Hedvig Ljungerud, HMRC’s Deputy Director for Transport Taxes, said: “These changes show that HMRC recognises and responds to the needs of rural communities.

People in the South will now be able to call upon these versatile and readily available vehicles to maintain access during periods of heavy winter weather. This will bring significant benefits to people and businesses in towns and villages normally outside the reach of municipal gritters, allowing daily life to continue and making the roads safer.”

Cowes Lifeboat Involved in Night-Time River Drama

Businesses could get tax cut Businesses on the island could see their National Insurance Contributions (NICs) cut by up to £2,000 when the new Employment Allowance is introduced in April 2014.

Across the UK 1.25 million businesses and charities will benefit from the new allowance on employer NICs. In the South East 68,000 will pay no employer NICs at all.

The allowance will mean that a business that employs one person on £22,400 will pay no employer NICs on that employee’s earnings. A business employing five adults full-time on the national minimum wage will see their employer NICs bill reduced by over 80 per cent.

Available every year, the allowance will be simple to claim and easy to administer.

Businesses will confirm their eligibility for the allowance

through their regular payroll processes and up to £2k will be deducted from their employer NICs liability over the course of the year.

Businesses paying NICs of £2k or less will pay no employer NICs at all. Over 90 per cent of the benefit of the new allowance will go to businesses with fewer than 50 employees.

Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke, said: “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy and we want to do what we can to support them. The Employment Allowance will reduce the cost of taking on new staff, supporting 200,000 businesses in the South East, and hundreds of thousands more across the UK that are ambitious to grow by reducing the cost of hiring their first employee or growing their workforce.”

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Will King – Credit Nick Edwards

A graphic account of a life or death search for an inebriated 52 year old man who had plunged into the River Medina at Cowes in the early hours of the morning was given by a member of the local RNLI lifeboat.

The lifeboat was launched shortly before 2am on the 2 November after the alarm was raised by the man's daughter. She and her father had intended to take the floating bridge from Cowes to East Cowes, only to find it had stopped for the night. The father then decided to swim to the other bank, but the daughter had no indication that he had succeeded.

The lifeboat, with Neil Archer at the helm, was soon on the scene, and with the aid of its powerful searchlights began a thorough search. "We firstly search the area of the chain ferry without success, and spread further along the banks," said crewman Will King.

"Then someone on the Cowes shore said they thought they heard vague moaning noises and cries for help from further down-river on the east bank. We found no-one underneath the Red Funnel

vehicle jetty; then Chris Cockroft and myself heard cries coming from Venture Quay.

"There we saw a man wandering about, thoroughly soaked to the skin and shivering. He stank of alcohol and could hardly talk except to say over and over again 'Sorry, sorry - sorry for the inconvenience'. He apparently had managed to cling to the quay jetty and pull himself up. " Will, who is a hospital doctor, tried to warm him up as the lifeboat rushed him to Trinity Landing at Cowes, There shorebased coastguards were waiting to assist in his transfer to a waiting ambulance and take him to St Mary's Hospital, Newport.

"He was very lucky there was only a half-knot ebb tide flowing in the river at the time," said Will.

"Anything stronger and he would have been pushed out to sea and we would have just been talking about body recovery.

"After our search, which perhaps lasted ten minutes, it was such a relief to find that against real odds the man had survived."

22

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Isle of Wight NHS Pumpkin Lantern Competition This is the 2nd year of the NHS IOW Pumpkin Lantern Competition It was organised last year within Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Services and opened up for all Trust staff this year. The idea was born last year when Mo Smith, Lead Nurse for Mental Health and Learning Disabilities Service, recived a bumper crop from her first go at growing pumpkins. This year sadly, the weather conditions were not so good. Being undetured and by popular demand, the competion was run again giving Trust staff the opportunity to show their artisic side for Halloween.

Mo Smith said: “This is a fun competition for staff teams to display their artistic talents by producing a work of art from a simple pumpkin. A recipe booklet is provided to competitors so they can use up any waste materials.”

The Judging was done by Isle of Wight NHS Trust’s Executive Director of Finance, Chris Palmer, who after a difficult decision awarded 1 st place to the Early Intervention in Psychosis team (AESOP). Chris said: “The decision was based on difficulty, detail and overall effect. Congratulations to the winners and everyone who took part.” The carver for the AESOP team, Radek Gora, seen here receiving his award from Chris Palmer, was coincidentally the recipient of the 1 st place award last year. The game is on for next Halloween to take the top slot.

VULNERABLE ISLAND ADULTS BENEFIT FROM MOVE Adults needing help from the Island’s Adult Social Care First Response team are the latest to benefit from a new Emergency Hub that combines numerous services in one state-of-the-art new building based at St Mary’s.

The move to the Emergency Hub by the First Response help-desk team is a beacon project of the My Life, A Full Life programme, the ethos of which is for health and social care service providers to work closely together to make it easier for residents to access the services and receive the response that is most appropriate for them.

The First Response help-desk team, part of the Isle of Wight Council community wellbeing and social care directorate, moved into the Emergency Hub in midSeptember joining the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service, the hospital car scheme, patient transport services, Wightcare, the Specialist Re-assessment and Rehabilitation Centre, the mental health and district nurse teams.

The team take all of the initial contacts for new referrals for adult social care for Isle of Wight

residents.

Annette Domoney the group manager of the adult First Response team, said: “We still all have the benefit of all the modern communication technology but that is now supported by the advantage of having face to face contact with other professionals who may need to be involved and who could be better placed to respond.

“The adult First Response team is a small team of nine workers and two help-desk officers, who operate Island wide based in locality teams. As a small team, we do need to ensure that in the current climate our resources are targeted at those most in need.”

The Wightcare community alarm service has been operating their response service from the Emergency Hub since March 2013.

Wightcare has been working closely with the ambulance service for a number of years now and the latest move is to lease four pool cars from the Isle of Wight NHS Trust for the Wightcare mobile response team,

the cars are all fitted with tracking devices.

At a glance all the teams in the Emergency Hub will be able to see the availability and status of ambulances and Wightcare response teams and a decision can be made as to which service can provide the most appropriate response.

Lorraine Bower, Wightcare operations manager, said: “The way in which health and social care services are provided is changing but collaborative projects such as the Emergency Hub demonstrates how that change can be for the better.”

“My Life, A Full Life is all about creating timely, responsive and consistent pathways for people

requiring health or social care services. The Emergency Hub is one example of that in action.”

Isle of Wight NHS Trust chief executive, Karen Baker, comments: “Closer working between health and social care will benefit Islanders by ensuring that our services are joined up and Islanders get the right service at the right time and in the right place. As an example of integrated working, the hub is a unique example in England of a range health services working together and now joining up with social care. This not only ensures a better service but also helps to ensure the viability and sustainability of services on the Island.”

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Remember, remember, it’s online from November

If you haven’t yet sent in your 2012/13 tax return, remember to do it online to avoid a penalty.

Around 1.8 million people in the South East have to file a Self Assessment return every year.

If you send HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) a paper tax return from November onwards, you’ll receive a £100 late filing penalty – even if you have no tax to pay, or you pay your tax bill on time. This is because the 31 October deadline for 2012/13 paper tax returns has now passed.

Anyone who hasn’t sent in their 2012/13 tax return must do it online by 31 January 2014.

To send an online tax return, you must be registered for HMRC Online Services. This involves HMRC sending you an Activation Code in the post, so allow time for this to arrive. To register for HMRC Online Services go to www.hmrc.gov.uk/online and follow the on-screen instructions.

For general help and advice on completing a return, visit www.hmrc.gov.uk/sa or call the Self Assessment helpline on 0300 200 3310 (open 8.00am to 8.00pm, Monday to Friday, and from 8.00am to 4.00pm on Saturdays).

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REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY SERVICES TO BE HELD

A number of services will be held across the Island to mark Remembrance Sunday.

In Newport, a service of remembrance will be held in Newport Minster on Sunday 10 November following the two minute silence at 11am.

Proceedings will start with a procession led by the Isle of Wight Council's mace bearer from Newport Guildhall to Sts Thomas' Square at 10.50am, where members of the procession will join other organisations for prayers before the formal silence.

A wreath laying ceremony will follow, before a service of remembrance in Newport Minster.

A number of other services will be taking place at the same time.

Meanwhile, a special ‘field of remembrance’ will once again be opened at Carisbrooke Castle to commemorate those in the uniformed services who lost their lives in service of their country.

The field was introduced in the Princess Beatrice Garden at Carisbrooke Castle in 2010. It was established by the LordLieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Major General Martin White, as a place where residents can pay their respects around the time of Remembrance Sunday.

The castle will open its doors for people to visit the field between 10am and 1pm on Thursday 7 November, as well as on Saturday 9 November and Sunday 10 November between 10am and 4pm (but not Friday 8 November).

Crosses can be purchased at the castle with proceeds going to the Royal British Legion.

A formal service of remembrance, which members of the public are welcome to attend, will take place at the castle on Thursday 7 November at 10.45am. Following the service, refreshments will be available with proceeds going to the Isle of Wight Women’s Institute.

Islanders Concerned over Council Reduction Letters In August, the Isle of Wight council told residents of a comprehensive review that is being 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 this review.

Many households are currently receiving letters about the

review which are from Capita and people have been contacting the council concerned that these letters are not genuine.

We can confirm the letters are genuine, and if you receive one please complete any forms and return them to the address provided.

You can find more about the review at www.iwight.com/news/Majorreview-of-single-person-counciltax

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

St Marys goes Pink for a day Staff at St. Marys Hospital joined in with the hundreds of thousands of people who took part in the national ‘Wear it Pink’ day on Friday 25th October 2013.

Members of staff paid a small contribution to wear something PINK as a show of support for the campaign. Staff could be seen around the hospital wearing a range of garments in the distinctive colour that ranged from the Campaign’s pink ribbon pin badges to the extreme of an entire Suit.

The lead organiser at the hospital is Diane Goring, Operational Manager, Community Rehabilitation who said: “I set up this day for the Community Health Directorate as I personally have a family history of breast cancer and 2 friends currently having treatment.

I emailed colleagues in my Directorate to support and this went viral through my friends around the trust, with Mark Isaacson offering to wear a pink suit!!

Mark Isaacson, who is a Senior Performance Information Analyst at the hospital, said: “I got married in 2008 wearing my pink suit; the suit hasn’t been out the wardrobe since. When I read Diane’s story, I thought what a great cause and what a great use of the suit.”

The total amount of funds raised is still on the up so an accurate figure is not known, however, it is assessed as being a very successful day judging by the weight of the collection boxes. A thank you goes out to all the members of staff at St Mary’s who contributed to the day and to all the members of the public that were visiting the hospital who also contributed and gave generously to the cause.

PUBLIC ASKED TO SEND IN VIEWS ON NEW CHILDREN'S PLAN Residents are being invited to give their views on a document aimed at improving the lives of children, young people and their families, which builds upon the work currently underway to improve services for children and young people. The Children and Young People’s Plan 2014 to 2017 (CYPP) outlines a range of plans and priorities to ensure better outcomes and access to support and services.

This includes setting out ways to tackle areas such as poor lifestyle issues, obesity, poverty and domestic abuse.

The Council is working on the plan with partners including Hampshire Constabulary, Community Action and the IW NHS, which includes the NHS Trust, the Clinical Commissioning Group and GPs. Each organisation has contributed to the plan and they will also carry links to the consultation on their websites. Children and young people have also contributed to the plan through various forums including the Children’s Society survey where almost 5000 children and young people across the Island

gave their views.

Isle of Wight Council Cabinet member for children's services Richard Priest said: "This latest Children and Young People's Plan is a very important document. It outlines a number of areas on the Island that are either successful or need improving.

"I would ask that residents look at the plan and send us their feedback to help inform the final draft ahead of when it comes into force next year."

Dr John Rivers, chair of the Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Our children and young people are the future of this Island. We need the views of all sections of our society to ensure that our Island provides children and young people with the best possible start in life.”

Consultation on the Isle of Wight CYPP runs until 5pm on Friday 29 November.

To view the document and take part in the consultation, residents should log on to the council's website at www.iwight.com.

Alternatively, paper copies are available by contacting rachel.dominey@iow.gov.uk.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

NHS 'Wear it Pink'

Staff at the NHS Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) joined forces with the hundreds of thousands of people who take part in the National Wear it Pink day on Friday 25th October 2013. Their mission is to beat this disease by funding ground-breaking research.

Estelle McGuire, Continuing Healthcare Manager at Isle of Wight CCG said: “The event, which is part of Breast Cancer Campaign’s Wear it Pink, included having a washing line strung from two balconies laden with pink bras. Staff donated £2 to wear pink for the day and Breast Cancer Campaign merchandise was available to purchase along with cakes and pink butterfly head boppers. Everybody got into the spirit of the day and contributed to raising over £100 for this vital research.”

Breast Cancer Campaign’s approach to breast cancer research is pioneering and highly responsive. They look for

opportunities where the potential for real impact is the highest.

Then they get the necessary funding straight to where it can make the most difference.

But despite recent advances, breast cancer is still the most common cancer. Every year it claims the lives of 12,000 women, and 50,000 more are diagnosed.

It’s crucial that we keep funding this vital research. Breast Cancer is not only an issue for women, it affects men too.

Last year, £2.1 million was raised by ‘wear it pink’ supporters and Wight Council this Credit moneyIsleisof already funding world-class research across the UK and Ireland that saves lives.

Learn more about the research that this support makes possible on Breast Cancer Campaign’s – breastcancercampaign.org.

The Isle of Wight has its own regional group – Pink on Wight – to see more of what they are doing on the Island or to become a volunteer you can look them up at www.facebook.com/pinkonwight

Getting ready for winter The Government's 'Get Ready for Winter' web pages are now online to provide help and advice about how to prepare and stay safe this winter.

Following the success of last year's campaign and with the recent severe weather fresh in the memory, the Government launch a timely reminder of the simple steps that can be taken to keep warm, healthy and safe this winter.

The Met Office will once again host the web pages (metoffice.gov.uk/getreadyforwi nter) on behalf of a range of Government Departments and voluntary organisations, offering advice and links to a range of organisations to help individuals, families and communities prepare for winter.

The campaign will build on last year's very successful initiative which saw thousands of people get the information they need to prepare for all weather conditions through the winter months.

Francis Maude, Minister for the Cabinet Office, said: "Building on the success of last year's 'Get Ready for Winter' initiative, government departments and our partners in the voluntary sector will again be providing comprehensive advice that will help individuals, families and communities

prepare and stay safe this winter.

"From tips on preparing your property and vehicle, to the latest weather forecasts and warnings, the initiative will provide a onestop shop for all winter weather related information" The Met Office works closely with government departments, contingency planners and partner organisations including the voluntary sector, throughout the year to make sure they have the best advice available to help them prepare for and deal with the impacts that our weather can bring.

Simon Lewis, head of emergency response at the British Red Cross and Chair of the Voluntary Sector Civil Protection Forum, said: "Severe weather will undoubtedly affect thousands of people across the UK this winter and we believe it is vital they have the necessary information to help them prepare.

All the charities involved are delighted to offer simple hints and tips as well as free apps and resources to help people better prepare for the winter to come."

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Six Lifeboat Members Pass Demanding External Examination Praise for the six volunteer crew of Cowes RNLI lifeboat for giving up much of their spare time to achieve the coveted Royal Yachting Association's Day Skipper Theory Certificate was voiced at a ceremony at the station.

The certificates were presented

by James Stevens, chairman of the RYA's Certification Panel.

He declared it was great that Cowes lifeboat members had recognised the value of studying for this nationally respected qualification, and recalled that the recently-retired RNLI operations director, Mike Vlasto, had encouraged such close working with the RYA. "And having travelled around the world I can say that the RNLI is easily the best lifeboat service in the world," he said.

"The best qualified and the most active."

Congratulating the certificate recipients, Mark Southwell, Cowes lifeboat operations manager, said: "Although our crew were already qualified to man the lifeboat, this very extensive course adds further to knowledge of seamanship and navigation. This can only benefit these six members in their RNLI roles. Studying for this examination required them to attend an evening class once a week for the past six months.

James Stevens (centre) with some of the recipients of the RYA Day Skipper certificates and other members of the station. Photo taken by Nick Edwards.

"Congratulations should also go to their instructors; the fact that these came from within the station demonstrates the high and wide level of knowledge we have here."

The three station members involved in running the course were: Richard Parr, Harry Leslie and Nick Edwards. The Day Skipper six were: Will King, Andrea Vaughan, Willoughby Matthews, Neil Archer, Sandy Steen and Tony Harris.

Yarmouth and Cowes RNLI lifeboats in Joint Rescue Dash

Shingles vaccine update Public Health England is subject to a temporary delay with the supply of the shingles vaccine, Zostavax速, into the UK. Shingles, or herpes zoster, is an infection of a nerve and the area of skin around it. In serious cases, it causes a rash of very painful, fluid-filled blisters on the skin that can burst and turn into sores that eventually crust over and heal.

People aged 70 and 79 on 1 September 2013 are being offered the shingles vaccine this year, as part of a vaccination programme to reduce the incidence and severity of shingles disease in older people. The cohort of 70 to 79 year olds was identified as the group most likely to benefit from vaccination

because they have a high incidence of shingles and related complications.

As this is a large age group, the catch-up programme needs to be staggered, due to limited vaccine supply. Those who are aged 79 years on 1 September 2013 are being prioritised this year as they will no longer be in the target age group next year.

The disruption to supply will continue until normal supplies are restored by the manufacturer, likely to be later in November or December.

Vaccines are subject to lengthy rigorous testing before they are passed for supply to the UK. This testing has taken longer than anticipated, causing vaccine deliveries to be temporarily delayed.

In the morning of 29th October the Yarmouth lifeboat, the Eric and Susan Hiscock (Wanderer) and Cowes lifeboat, Sheena Louise were called to assist the Tall Ships Youth Trust 72ft yacht, Challenger III. She had run aground on Gurnard Ledge just west of Cowes It was imperative than the yacht was refloated as quickly as possible as there was potential for serious damage if the weather had deteriorated.

The smaller Cowes lifeboat was able to approach the yacht more closely than the Yarmouth boat. They took a line to the top of the mast and pulled the yacht over on to her side while the powerful Yarmouth lifeboat established a tow and pulled her off. The whole operation took only half an hour and major damage was averted. No one was injured.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

LOCAL FOSSIL ENTHUSIAST GIVES COLLECTION TO DINOSAUR ISLE MUSEUM Dinosaur Isle Museum in Sandown has been given an amazing new collection of ammonite fossils from local Island collector Paul Newton.

Ammonites were a type of sea creature and their name was inspired by the spiral shape of their fossilized shell.

Paul has been collecting fossils for many years and focuses his efforts on finding ammonites.

Most of the fossils he has given to the museum were found on the Isle of Wight with others discovered elsewhere in the UK. Many of the fossils will shortly go on display at the museum, which houses thousands of fossils including many species of dinosaur that were discovered on the Isle of Wight.

Paul said: "I have been collecting fossils for most of my life and have always had a real interest in the different remains of long gone sea creatures. For over 30 years I have been collecting on the South Coast of the Isle of Wight where I have made some of my most exquisite finds.

"The Isle of Wight has a fantastic array of fossils and I am very happy for Dinosaur Isle

Museum to receive my collection. I hope that visitors to the museum will be as enthused with them on display as I was when finding them.”

Peter Pusey, general manager of Dinosaur Isle added he was delighted with the new collection. He said: "In a recent fossil review we felt we could do with displaying more ammonites as these are quite well known types of fossils and we did not have that many.

"Paul's collection has enabled us to fill this gap and it demonstrates that such skilled collectors like Paul are so important to preserving the Island's heritage."

Councillor Shirley Smart, the council's cabinet member responsible for tourism said: "I want to thank Paul for his kindness in donating his collection which he has built up over the years.

"I am sure the display will be enjoyed by visitors to the museum for many years to come."

The fossils will be on display at the museum and will be available for research.

Thousands of tonnes of saturated fat to be taken out of the nation’s diet Over one and a half Olympic size swimming pools of saturated fat will be removed from the nation’s diet over the next year as part of a drive to cut the amount of saturated fat in our food.

Almost half of the food manufacturing and retail industry has signed up to the Responsibility Deal Saturated Fat Reduction Pledge by agreeing to reduce the amount of saturated fat in our food.

Cutting the amount of saturated fat we eat by just 15% could prevent around 2,600 premature deaths every year from conditions such as cardiovascular disease, heart disease and stroke. Public Health Minister, Jane Ellison said: “One in six male deaths and one in nine female deaths are from coronary heart disease – this is why it’s critical that we challenge the way we eat and that we all make changes where we can.

“It’s hugely encouraging that companies providing almost half of the food available on the UK market have committed to this new Responsibility Deal pledge and

they are leading the way to give their customers healthier products and lower fat alternatives.

Some of the companies removing saturated fat from products are: Nestlé – will remove 3,800 tonnes of saturated fat from over a billion Kit Kat bars per year by reformulating the recipe Tesco – will remove 32 tonnes of saturated fat from products Morrisons – will be reformulating its spreads range to reduce saturated fat, this will remove approximately 50 tonnes Subway – will reduce the amount of saturated fat in their Kids Pak™ by more than 70 per cent, replacing cookies and crisps with a healthier option which provides one of a child’s recommended five-a-day portions of fruit and vegetables Aldi – will start a programme of saturated fat reformulation, explore reducing portion sizes and educating consumers & employees to choose healthier options Sainsbury’s – will continue to reformulate recipes to reduce saturated fat

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

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 8th November 2013

Isle of Wight Sports