Issue 21 - The Isle of Wight Mail

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

The Island's free community newspaper

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IW SAILORS

Helping with relief efforts in the Philippines

David's Onboard HMS Illustrious

Councillor Praises Primary School

Rob's Music Club Is The Place To Be

Two Royal Navy sailors from the Isle of Wight who serve on the same warship have been helping with the relief effort in the Philippines. Leading Photographer Keith Morgan, 28 and Engineering Technician Jay Shirlaw, 24 are from East Cowes and Cowes respectively and are both on board Portsmouth-based HMS Daring. See Page 13

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ISSUE NUMBER 21 22nd November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

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David Corney, from East Cowes, is currently deployed to South East Asia onboard HMS Illustrious Able Seaman (Seaman Specialist) David Corney (24), from East Cowes, is currently deployed to South East Asia onboard HMS Illustrious as she assists with the international relief effort following Typhoon Haiyan.

David’s primary role in the Seamanship Department is to act as the Navigating Officer’s Yeoman. He is responsible for the upkeep of the Ship’s navigation material; ensuring that charts and publications are correct, so that the Illustrious can navigate safely. David explained: “In addition to my role as the Navigator’s Yeoman, I also get to drive an aircraft carrier and am a trained seaboat coxswain.”

David joined the Royal Navy out of a desire to see the world and has already visited Norway, the Mediterranean and the Middle East. HMS Illustrious had been conducted counter-piracy operations off the Horn of Africa when she was tasked by to make best speed for the Philippines.

Given David’s role as seaboat coxswain, he will likely play a major role in HMS Illustrious’ effort to relieve suffering and provide humanitarian support to the people of the Philippines, transporting personnel and supplies from the ship to the shore so that support can get to areas where it is desperately needed.

David said: “The entire Ship’s Company has been shocked by the images of the devastation caused by Typhoon Haiyan. We undergo rigorous training in how to conduct humanitarian and disaster relief operations and are ready, willing and eager to help. I want to help make a difference and, although I will miss my family, being away from home at Christmas is a small price to pay to achieve something so worthwhile.”

David’s parents Richard and Lyn live in East Cowes. He has an older sister, Sarah. His

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HMS Illustrious

David Corney family are incredibly proud of his service and he cannot wait to be reunited with them on his return from the current deployment.

HMS Illustrious is currently part of Operation Patwin; the Government’s action to support the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan. Prime Minister David Cameron has despatched HMS Illustrious to the region, where her Sea King, Lynx and Merlin helicopters will be able to move people and aid around the country until infrastructure can be repaired. She will relieve destroyer HMS Daring in the aid effort.

The carrier will also be able to provide humanitarian relief, including supplies of fresh food and water as well, medical support and engineering assistance.

The United Kingdom has committed £20 million worth of aid, a team of medical experts, as well as sending HMS Daring, HMS Illustrious and an RAF transport aircraft to assist the effort.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Getting growing, cooking and eating with Adopt-A-Garden!

The Island’s popular Adopt-AGarden scheme is turning over a new leaf, and offering yet more help to those who want to grow their own food. Thanks to funding from the IW NHS, The Footprint Trust will not just be finding people a free growing space near their home, but training people how to grow their own food and giving free training on cooking!

‘Those signing up for this free scheme will be shown how to grow and cook their produce. We are hoping that whole families will get involved. Children love growing things and everyone enjoys eating!’

Said Ray Harrington-Vail of the Footprint Trust, who set up the original scheme back in 2005.

‘People taking part do not need their own garden. We can usually find them an unused garden near their home.’

‘Gardening is a fun way of getting fit and can be an ideal way of encouraging people to take exercise, who otherwise might not. Sport, gyms and lycra are not for everyone!’

‘It is a great incentive knowing that all this exercise is going to give you free, healthy food!’

Thanks the funding from the NHS the scheme can provide those joining with free seeds and training. The free training will be delivered in February and places and filling up fast.

“We intend to encourage, families, young people, single parents and individuals to take up gardening as a fun and rewarding hobby. We will also offer small informal workshops on how to grow and cook produce.”

The training will give people, including children, transferable life skills – as the course will cover budgeting – showing money saved by ‘growing your own.’

Gardening and cooking skills will also assist those attending for the rest of their lives.

Free places are now being booked for the course in the new year. Spaces are limited and readers are encouraged to book quickly.

For those without a garden, we will match them up with someone who can no longer tend their garden due to old age or incapacity. Both parties will have a free DBS (police check) before being introduced.

‘Gardening can increase healthy life expectancy, due to the activity being cardio vascular in nature.

There is evidence that contact with the natural environment and green space promotes good mental and physical health.’

If you or your family would like to find out more please contact the Adopt-A-Garden scheme by phone or text on 01983 822282 or email don@footprint-trust.co.uk

Councillor praises Primary School Cllr Chris Whitehouse has visited Newport Church of England Primary School and praised the Leadership Team for the progress they are making in turning around the school which had previously been found to be “inadequate” during an Ofsted inspection in April and put into special measures. Cllr Whitehouse said “The Acting Headteacher, Jerry Seaward, and his colleagues are making good progress in turning this school around. They have clearly identified where there are specific weaknesses and have put in place determined plans to address them. There is no doubt that they are now moving in the right direction.”

After a tour of the school, Mr Seaward shared with Cllr Whitehouse the school’s Plan of Action. Cllr Whitehouse also warmly welcomed the school’s innovative “mentoring programme” adding: “Virtually all the teaching staff at the school

have agreed, in addition to their normal duties, to dedicate an hour a week after school to mentoring a small group of between one and three pupils each. This is enabling focussed, bespoke support to be delivered so that all the children have the opportunity to catch up if they were behind and to fill in any crucial gaps in their knowledge. I warmly welcome this dedication by the staff, it is just what is needed and I am sure parents who live locally in my ward of Newport West will be greatly encouraged and very pleased indeed.”

Jerry Seaward, who was seconded in September by Christ the King College to serve as Acting Head of the school said: “ We very much appreciate the support and encouragement we have received from the community, from Christ the King College, from Hampshire and from Isle of Wight Council officers.”

WATER FOR THE FUTURE Southern Water has published a report setting out the views of its customers following a public consultation on its 25-year strategy to secure water resources.

The ‘Statement of Response’ sets out the feedback received from nearly 1,000 customers and interested parties during a public consultation this summer on the company’s draft Water Resources Management Plan for 2015-2040.

The response also shows where changes have been made to the plan as a result of new up-todate information on population and housing growth forecasts and the feedback.

The revised plan is based on the company’s innovative new approach to plan for more serious droughts in the future than those experienced in the past, after this received strong support in the consultation (83 per cent).

This will lead to a reduction in the use of water restrictions, such as hosepipe bans, to one in every 10 years on average and halve the risk of extreme restrictions, such as standpipes in the streets or rota cuts where water is only available for a few hours.

Customers also showed strong support for water efficiency (92 per cent), water re-use (96 per cent) and working with landowners and farmers to protect the quality of water in rivers (96 per cent).

Meyrick Gough, Southern Water’s Strategy and Policy Manager, said: “We were really pleased to receive such a widerange of feedback on our plan

and have spent the weeks since the consultation reviewing these and updating our plans.

“A big change is the introduction of much more water efficiency to help our customers save water, save energy and save . money. We heard strong support for this and as our programme to install water meters for the majority of our customers is due to finish in 2015 then we need to continue to support our customers to make savings.”

The revised plan will now see average water use reduce from the current 152 litres per person per day to below 130 litres by 2040. Customers can read or download a summary of the Statement of Response on the company’s website at swhaveyoursay.co.uk/wrmp as well as the main Statement of Response and revised draft reports.

The updated documents have been submitted to Defra and the Environment Agency and Southern Water will publish its final Water Resources Management Plan when given the go-ahead. This will then lead the company’s strategy to supply water until the plan is updated again in five years time.

Southern Water is donating £963 to international charity WaterAid, £1 for each individual response it received during the public consultation.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

The WIR Christmas Party Do you remember when leg warmers made you feel footloose? Or when a young boy could transform into a superhero at the consumption of a banana?!

After an a absences of nearly 4 year from Sandown, Christmas 80's night returns to the town, with that legend 80's DJ Dave Hollidge.

Dave will be spinning the great hits of the 80's for this years Wight Island Radios Christmas Party night and your invited to the night.

The event is limited and all free tickets will be given away on a first come first served basis on the radio stations facebook page (facebook.com/wightislandradio) on the web site wightislandradio.com and on air via the website or the tunein app.

Senior Presenter Steve Bradley

said: "This event is to say a big thank you to all our listeners & supporters but also to raise the profile of the Island community radio station and how we are growing."

Presenter Andy Knight has said: "This is a great way to start your Christmas celebrations, Dave Hollidge is well know across the Island for hits "80's nite" at the once Bogeys night club in the town.

"Come and get your dancing shoes and join us at this great party night."

On the night there will be a raffle with prizes from local compaines with all teh funds raised to got to the WIR Foundation that work with disadvantage children and young adults from across the Island. If you would like tickets email sales@wightislandradio.com

TESCO PRODUCT RECALL Product Recall: Tesco is recalling their Tesco Chocolate and Nut Ice Cream Cones because a small number of have been found to contain pain relief tablets.

It is not clear how the pain relief tablets got into the cones.

The Tesco Chocolate and Nut Ice Cream Cones affected by this recall are:- Tesco 4 Chocolate and Nut Ice Cream Cones (Pack size 4 x 110ml) All best before dates up to and including July 2014 DO NOT EAT THEM. You should return them to the store If you have any questions or where you purchased them for a concerns about this recall you can full refund. contact Tesco on 0800 50 55 55.

QUEEN'S AWARD FOR ISLE OF WIGHT STREET PASTORS The Isle of Wight Street Pastors are to be presented with the Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in recognition of the work they undertake within the community.

Major General Martin White, the Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, will present the award on behalf of The Queen today (Friday 22 November) at Newport Congregational Church.

This is one of only 117 Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Service to be presented nationally. It is the highest award that can be presented to volunteer groups in the UK and is equal to the MBE which is awarded to individuals.

Isle of Wight Street Pastors is a Christian charity providing care, support and practical help to

people on the streets of Island towns at night, and around Island Schools at the end of the school day through two projects, Street Pastors and School Pastors.

Commenting on the award, Major General Martin White, said: “The Isle of Wight Street Pastors play an incredibly important role within our community and have provided support to countless people since being established in 2009. The work of the fifty-plus volunteers who care for and assist people in our towns during the evening, as well as children and young people through the School Pastors scheme, is highly commendable and it is right that their hard work and dedication is recognised with this award.”

Contact the news team on 01983 898 838

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd 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 22 nd 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

A classic whodunnit Poirot may have cracked his last case on the television, but lovers of Agatha Christie can enjoy a classic whodunnit at Shanklin Theatre in February, when Original Theatre presents 'The Hollow'.

Billed as one of the best crime stories in the Christie canon, there's no Hercule Poirot, but The Hollow promises to be a feast for the eyes, with a 1950s country house setting, as well as a brain teaser as audiences try to unravel the clues faster than the police.

The Hollow runs from February 19 to 22, with an extra matinee performance on Saturday, 22nd. Booking is available through www.shanklintheatre.com, or by calling 01983 868000.

Steeleye's long span

Still going strong after six decades, Steeleye Span are on their way to Shanklin.

Contemporaries of the likes of Led Zeppelin and Fairport Convention, they have taken folk music from small clubs and festivals into the world of chart topping albums and international tours.

The band added two new members in 2011: guitarist Julian Littman and multi-instrumentalist Peter Zorn. Julian has performed with Gerry Rafferty, Dexy's Midnight Runners, Barbara Dickson, Carlene Carter, Paul Jones, Malcolm McLaren, Steve Harley, Debbie Bonham, and Pete Townsend, as well being a

respected songwriter. Pete Zorn before coming to Steeleye had been a long time member of Richard Thompson’s band.

Steeleye still features Maddy Prior, who has been the voice of the band for all but five of their forty-two years together.

The band has collaborated with lifelong fan Terry Pratchett to produce a new album based on his Wintersmith novel, which is due to be released soon.

Steeleye promise that fans will be able to get a taste of the new songs, along with the familiar classics, on their tour, which includes a session at Shanklin Theatre on December 6.

Apollo Burlesque

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

And now for something completely different – burlesque at the Apollo, Newport.

It was a bit of a departure for the Apollo, but it paid off, as around 100 people piled into the converted Methodist Chapel on Pyle Street for an evening of high quality performance, delivered by Natsumi Scarlett, Raven Noir, Sir Midnight Blues, Isabelle L'Amour, Silk Seduction, Cheralyn, and singer Maria Lala.

The bar takings were impessive too!

The Blue Moon Revue is part of the Apollo's mission to open up the venue for hire to a range of live events. It is already a popular venue for jazz, other theatre groups, and has also been used for film screenings. For more information, go to www.apollo-theatre.org.uk

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Island Arts Art highlighting abuse ...

The Island’s Domestic Abuse forum marks the International Day to End Violence Against Women and Girls on Monday November 25 with an exhibition

by Carisbrooke College and Sandown Bay Academy pupils.

‘Survive’ aims to focus attention not just on the scale and impact of domestic abuse, but also on the fact that many victims do survive the experience and with support can move on to have safe and healthy relationships.

Statistics show that young women between 16 and 18 are most at risk of domestic abuse, rape and stalking.

Fleur Gardiner, domestic abuse coordinator at the Isle of Wight

Council, said: “A whole Island approach to educating young people is vital if we are to make real progress against domestic abuse.

This work takes time to embed, but if we can address abuse and violence in our community in a consistent way then the next generation can only benefit from our efforts.”

The exhibition runs from 25 November to 7 December in the Rope Store Gallery at Quay Arts, and will be launched with a private view and a spoken word performance at the Quay’s Acoustic Originals evening on the 25th.

… and cyber bullying Meanwhile, as further evidence of the power of different media to communicate different messages, two Isle of Wight students have produced a video to raise awareness of cyber bullying and how to access advice and guidance.

It's part of national Anti Bullying Week which takes place from November 18, and is on the theme of cyber bullying.

The video, which is available to view on the Isle of Wight Council's YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/iwcouncil, has been produced by Isle of Wight College students Ellie Swan and Steven Logue.

It shows two young people relating their experiences of cyber bullying, followed by a montage of information and help points that are available to young people on the Island if they are in need of help to deal with cyberbullying in any form.

Richard Priest, the Isle of Wight Council cabinet member responsible for children's

services said: "We live in a modern age where children and young people can access the digital world at the click of a button, whether this be from a computer, a tablet device or their mobile phones.

"Bullying does not have to be physical and we know that cyber bullying can be just as damaging as any other form. It can be through social media sites or text messages and teachers and parents are not always able to provide the advice and support young people need to crack down on cyber bullying.

"We need a collaborative approach to tackling cyberbullying, so children themselves can take responsibility for their own safety online and for their own behaviour. They should know not to join in with cyber bullying and know where to turn for help when things go wrong.

Children should be able to enjoy a digital future that is safe, fun and enriching."

Tell us about your Christmas production!

Whatever your town or village or group is doing this Christmas, we want to know about it, and we can help you promote it, too

'A Day in the Life of Pantoland' Panto Day's 'A Day in the Life of Pantoland' campaign reached more than 1.5 million Twitter users,last year with the hashtag '#panto'.

This year 'A Day in the Life of Pantoland' returns for Panto Day 2013 on Saturday December 7, with a line up of pantomime performers signed up to give a impse into what goes on behind the scenes.

They include Alan Fletcher - aka Neighbours' Dr. Karl Kennedy (@DoctorKK) – who is taking the stage as the Sheriff of Nottingham in the Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks's production of Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood; Scotland's

favourite panto villain Grant Stott (@GrantStott973), who plays Captain Hook in his ninth consecutive pantomime at the King's Theatre, Edinburgh; and Kev Orkian (@TheKevOrkian) who will be tweeting from the Milton Keynes Theatre as Muddles alongside Jennifer Ellison's Wicked Queen and Warwick Davis's Prof in Snow White More official Panto Day Tweeters will be announced in due course via Panto Day's Twitter Feed @Panto_Day, Facebook page www.facebook.com/celebratepanto and website www.celebratepanto.co.uk

The Village of Angels

One of the pieces that will be appear as part of the St Helens Village of Angels display.

St. Helens village is being turned into a Village of Angels for Christmas.

Villagers are hoping to create a number of lit pieces by Island artists, crafts people and local people.

These will include sculpture, photography, 2d and textiles.

The pieces will be conceptual and literal and will appear in a number

of public and private spaces around St. Helens.

This great new concept aims to raise funds for the local playgroup, so make sure you include St Helens in your travel plans sometime between December 2 and January 5.

A map of where all the angels are located will be available from the Vine Inn and local shops.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Island Arts IW Photographer of the Year Competition 2013 The Isle of Wight Photographer of the Year competition returns with photographers currently resident on the Island invited to submit photographs taken during 2013 for this year’s theme – Every Picture Tells a Story. The competition is organised by the Isle of Wight Digital Imaging Group (IWDIG) with an online gallery of short listed entrants provided by the Isle of Wight Photo Agency and an exhibition of short listed photographs to be held at Dimbola Museum & Galleries (11th January – 30th March 2014). The winner will be announced at a special awards evening at Dimbola on Saturday 11th January 2014, generously supported by Pioneer Wines. This

CHRISTMAS SHOW FOR FRIENDS & FAMILY

year’s competition will be judged

by David Betts, one of the Island’s foremost professional photographers, Christian Warren, Editor of Style of Wight and Dr Rachel Flynn, Exhibitions and Collections Coordinator at Dimbola Museum and Galleries. The winner will receive a state of the art Olympus Pen E-M2 digital camera and a solo exhibition at Dimbola in Autumn 2014.

Final Call for Entrants The closing date for entries is midnight 28th November 2013 and entrants must register for the competition in advance. Full details and regulations can be found at: http://www.iwpoy.org/award/rules/

Celebrating am dram The Island's am dram community came together for its annual group hug this week.

Hosted and adjudicated by veteran broadcaster, journalist and show business enthusiast John Hannam, the Amateur Theatre Awards represented his pick of the crop after watching more than 50 productions over the last 12 months.

John told the audience at Shanklin Theatre that the standard was higher than ever, and paid special tribute to the impressive array of young talent that the Island seemed able to keep producing.

He noted that many groups were, however, experiencing a drop in audience numbers and said that was a challenge that had to be faced.

Some of that young talent was on display, too, as the evening showcased the talents of many young people in song and dance excerpts from shows delivered in fine style by Ventnor Theatre Group, Medina College, Hilary Hall School of Dance, Sandown Academy, and Ryde School,

Pantomime Award, Glad Tidings Pepperpot Players – Heather Hannam Award for Best Village Production, Black Widow Matt Coles – Best Supporting Male, Anything Goes Amanda Barnley – Best Supporting Female, Calendar Girls Josh Pointing – Brian Murphy Award for Best Major Debut, Hamlet Abi Harris – Jeremy Irons Award for Best Young Actor, Black Widow Steve Reading – Kevin Mitchell Award for Best Male Actor, Matilda Liar Ashleigh Mackness – Laura Michelle Kelly Award for Best Female Lead, Pirates of Penzance John Plumbly – Anthony Minghella Award for Best Director, Calendar Girls Cowes AODS – Best Stage Set, Return to the Forbidden Planet Ventnor Theatre Group – Barbara Walter Award for Best Musical, Les Miserables Ryde School – Best High School and Youth Group Production, Chicago ---------Newchurch Drama Group – Jack Douglas Award for Best Comedy, The winners were: Two Into One ---------St Lawrence Village Players – Best Savoyards - Terry Hyde Award for Christmas Production, A Christmas Choreography, Pirates of Penzance Red Tie Theatre Group – Best Play, Carol Patrick Barry – Best Performance in The History Boys a Christmas Show, Sleeping Beauty Hilary Hall – Services to Island Amateur Stage.

Ian Dockray – Nesta Meech

“My Music Club is the place to be on the Isle of Wight if you want to get into music – it’s that simple... Be there!”

This year’s Rob da Bank’s Music Club Christmas Spectacular will take place at Quay Arts, Newport on Wednesday 27th November.

Families & friends are invited to come and watch the talented Island students’ performances in the Theatre at Quay Arts on the night between 6:00-7:00pm – entry is free, although audience tickets are limited so anybody planning to come and watch is advised to register for a ticket by contacting Quay Arts http://www.quayarts.org (box office: 01983 822 490) The Theatre at Quay Arts is booked from 5:00pm on 27th in order for students to set up and rehearse – they will then get the chance to perform to their invited friends and family between 6:00-7:00pm!

Students will also DJ in between live acts as well as providing all of the the

visuals and lighting plus performing, compering & presenting duties too...

The whole thing will again be recorded by IOW Radio and broadcast on air just prior to Christmas.

Island teenagers who would like to either perform, present the radio show, or interview & announce the acts are asked to please register via email ASAP at bestivalfoundation@bestival.net Emmy J Mac & Buddy Carson will return again on the night with their amazing Stand Up For Lyricism workshop: so singers, writers, rappers, spoken word artists if you've got something to say and want to be heard, they will be putting together a performance for the radio session and the Christmas Spectacular... Bring along any words you have (or just your voice).

NB The Music Club itself is open to 13–18 year olds only - FREE ENTRY for everyone to the show (all ages)

facebook.com/RobdaBanksMusicClub

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

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Island Arts

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

‘Treat Yourself Better Without Antibiotics’ this winter Doctors on the Isle of Wight are supporting a new campaign to encourage people to self-treat minor ailments such as colds and flu the winter.

The Treat Yourself Better Without Antibiotics website is full of information to help people understand when how long they can expect their symptoms to last, when they need to see a doctor and when they would be better off visiting their local pharmacist for advice.

You can visit the website at www.treatyourselfbetter.co.uk The campaign has been launched after new research reveals that nearly half the UK population (45%) believe antibiotics can treat cold and flu, and slightly more (48%) admit to having visited their GP with an expectation of being prescribed them for this purpose. In fact, antibiotics do not have any effect against symptoms like cold and flu as these are caused by viruses and antibiotics only work against bacteria.

Over-use of antibiotics is a serious issue which can lead to dangerous bacteria developing immunity. What were previously simply treatable infections are becoming serious and in some cases life-threatening.

Dr John Partridge, Clinical Director for the Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), says “antibiotics are a precious resource and need to be used carefully. The majority of upper respiratory tract infections are known to be viral and antibiotics will not be effective”.

Treat Yourself Better Without Antibiotics is a new campaign from Pharmacy Voice and the PAGB which aims to educate people on normal symptom duration and provide advice on self-treatment with pharmacy support, in order to help people avoid unnecessary visits to their GP surgery, which

costs the NHS £35.2 million a year and countless practice hours.

Supported by a wide range of public health organisations including the Department of Health and Public Health England through European Antibiotic Awareness Day, the Treat Yourself Better Without Antibiotics campaign urges people to better self-treat winter ailments such as coughs and colds rather than going to the GP and asking for antibiotics.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Professor John Watson said, "The increasing threat from antibioticresistant infections is so serious that in 20 years' time we could be back to how it was in the 19th century when routine operations could be fatal as a result of everyday infections.

The Chief Medical Officer’s call to action has definitely struck a chord.

Through campaigns like this, I hope we can change the way people think about antibiotics and we are pressing for it to be much higher up the global political agenda.

It is however important to remember that winter flu and its complications can kill - that's why it's important that those who are offered the flu vaccine take it up to protect themselves and others.”

Arson attack in Newport Police on the Isle of Wight are appealing for witnesses after three cars were severely damaged in an arson attack in Newport in the early hours of Thursday morning.

Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service were called to the incident at 3.31am and 3.55am on November 21st after a Citroen C3 and a Ford Mondeo parked to the rear of Carisbrooke Road and a Hyundai SantFE parked in Drill Hall Road public car park reported as being on fire.

A police spokesperson said: “We

are working with Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service to determine the cause of the fires, but believe that they were started deliberately.

If you were in the area at the time and saw or heard anything unusual at all please contact police.

“We are following several lines of enquiry, but would like to hear from any members of the public who can help our investigation.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning 0800 555 111

Tax crackdown on hidden wealth in the south Tax cheats in the South East and South who hide their wealth are being targeted as part of an HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) taskforce.

The taskforce – targeted at individuals and businesses in South Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Dorset, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Wiltshire – aims to tackle people with offshore accounts and those living lifestyles beyond their obvious means through assets from undeclared income. This will recover £2.8 million.

Taskforces are specialist teams that undertake intensive bursts of activity in specific high-risk trade sectors and locations in the UK. The teams visit traders to examine their records and carry out other investigations.

David Gauke, Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, said: “We are determined to support hardworking people who want to get on, but the people being targeted by these taskforces have no

intention of playing by the rules.

“This Government has made it clear that we will not tolerate tax evasion and has provided HMRC with the resources to crack down on those who break the rules.”

HMRC has collected more than £100 million as a result of taskforces launched since 2011-12. It expects to bring in over £90 million a year from taskforces launched over the next three years.

HMRC’s Jennie Granger, Director General of Enforcement and Compliance, said: “Deliberately not declaring your income is serious. Our message is - do the right thing. If you haven't already, come clean now. If you don't, we will find you, investigate you and, not only could you face a heavy fine, but you may face a criminal prosecution as well.”

If you know anyone who is evading their taxes, you can tell HMRC by calling the Tax Evasion Hotline on 0800 788 887.

Tax crackdown on the road transport industry Tax cheats in the road transport industry are being targeted as part of an HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) taskforce.

The taskforce - targeted at individuals and businesses in South Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Dorset, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Surrey, Sussex and Wiltshire who are undeclaring income and selling/using illegal fuel. It is set to bring in £3.75 million.

Taskforces are specialist teams that undertake intensive bursts of activity in specific high-risk trade sectors and locations in the

UK. The teams visit traders to examine their records and carry out other investigations.

HMRC’s Jennie Granger, Director General of Enforcement and Compliance, said: “Not declaring income and selling/using illegal fuel is serious. It is really important that we level the playing field by stopping tax cheats. Our message is - do the right thing. If you haven't already, come clean now. If you don't, we will find you, investigate you and, not only could you face a heavy fine, but you may face a criminal prosecution as well.”

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

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DISASTER RELIEF MISSION IN PHILIPPINES Two Royal Navy sailors from the Isle of Wight who serve on the same warship have been helping with the relief effort in the Philippines.

Leading Photographer Keith Morgan, 28 and Engineering Technician Jay Shirlaw, 24 are from East Cowes and Cowes respectively and are both on board Portsmouthbased HMS Daring. The Type 45 destroyer is on a nine-month deployment around the world and was on an exercise off the coast of Singapore with navies from Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand when she was retasked with helping the aid effort in the Philippines.

“We met at the back end of the last deployment in the Gulf,” said Keith, “and now we are here on the same ship again but this time in the Philippines. One the first day that we began to distribute aid to some of the remote Philippine islands, I landed on a beach on Guintacan island and the first person I saw was Jay.” “It’s like we have gone from one island to another,” added Jay, who is married to wife Isabel and has been in the Royal Navy for two years.

“On the last deployment there were three of us from the Isle of Wight but it has now gone down to just the two. When we started chatting we realised that we both went to the same school and both our dads know each other – it’s a very small world.”

HMS Daring has already loaded aid at the port of Cebu and has been distributing it among communities on remote islands that were devastated by the typhoon, destroying homes, crops, schools, community centres, water wells and generators.

The aid donated by the Department for International Development (DfID) consisted of 500 food baskets which can feed a family of four for a week, 500 family shelter kits, 500 hygiene kits, 1500 four litre water carriers and 400 five litre water carriers. They also embarked a team of 14 medics from Save The Children.

Her sailors have also been visiting remote areas such as Canas, Calagnaan and Tulunanaun islands which are to the north east of the island of Panay and have been helping with crucial repair works to demolished buildings, battered fishing vessels and blocked roads.

One of Keith’s main roles has been to go ahead of the ship with the Lynx helicopter and capture images

of the islands below in order for the command team to assess where the aid is most needed.

“Some of the islands were really devastated by the typhoon and others barely touched,” he said.

“They were long hours to fly and take photos – we would be out for over six hours each day – but it was worth it to make sure we can find the communities that need the aid.”

Jay is a Marine Engineer and a High Voltage specialist so has been out on the islands as part of the teams assessing storm damage to generators – which the remote islands rely on for their electricity.

“It’s really important that we can each use our skills to do whatever we can to help,” he said.

In terms of equipment the ship also holds 700 ration packs, 550 litres of bottled water and can provide 100,000 litres of potable water within 24 hours, generators, firefighting equipment, thermal imaging cameras and an emergency relief pack containing essentials such as generators, floodlighting and rescue equipment .

HMS Daring is the first in class of the Royal Navy’s six new Type 45 destroyers which are the largest and most powerful destroyers ever built for the Royal Navy. She is two thirds of the way through her deployment and has already clocked up more than 18,000 miles taking part in exercises and carrying out regional engagement activities in places such as the Caribbean, the West Coast of USA, the Pacific and Southern Oceans and latterly the South China Sea. support a civilian evacuation from war zones or areas affected by natural disasters.

Disappearance case remains open A decision has been made for the files on Damien Nettles to remain with the Hampshire Major Investigation team (HMIT) for ongoing regular checks.

The move follows an extensive review of all information gathered by police during enquiries into Damien’s disappearance in November 1996.

Chief Superintendent Dave Powell of Hampshire Constabulary said: “This decision does not mean the case is closed.

Instead, the police files on Damien’s disappearance remain open for colleagues in the Hampshire Major Investigation Team (HMIT) to examine regularly.

Experienced detectives can conduct routine checks including Analysing the credibility of any new information that may be given to police in future, Contacting Coroner’s officers about the discoveries of any unidentified bodies similar to Damien’s description and Work with the Nettles family on any opportunities to maintain public awareness of the case.

Dave Powell continued “Our utmost respect and gratitude goes to the Nettles family and all those members of the public who campaign with tremendous tenacity to bring about breakthrough in solving Damien’s disappearance.

“We are disappointed that Damien has not been found yet.

However, our files will remain open to receive any new facts that members of the public may have about what happened to the teenager in November 1996.

“The key point to repeat and remember is the reporting of any new facts – not fictions fuelled by the repetition of rumour.” Anyone with information can contact the Hampshire Major Investigation Team (HMIT) at Fratton Police Station by phoning 101. Minicom users can phone 18001 101.

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

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

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Isle of Wight children to benefit from Wave 105’s Mission Christmas Toy Appeal Every toy that is dropped off at Sainsbury’s on the Isle of Wight will be given to disadvantaged children on the Island, announced Wave 105.

Wave 105 Cash for Kids charity launched its Mission Christmas Toy Appeal at the beginning of November to help prevent the thousands of children in poverty across the South from waking up to Christmas without any presents.

To help make a disadvantaged child’s festive season a special one, Islanders can take on the role of Santa by dropping off a present at the collection points at Sainsbury’s in Newport and West Cowes right up until Friday December 13.

Wave 105 commercial director and charity trustee, Jon Brooks, said: “Despite some conflicting reports, we would like to reassure people that all toys donated at the Isle of Wight drop off points will be given to disadvantaged children on the Island. This has always been the case since we teamed up with Sainsbury’s four years ago to collect toys for our Mission

Christmas toy appeal throughout Hampshire, Dorset, part of West Sussex and the Isle of Wight. We are delighted to be able to offer our listeners the convenience of dropping off a gift at participating stores again this Christmas.”

Gloria Hill, Wave 105 Cash for Kids charity manager, added: “We need new, unwrapped toys for children of all ages, right up to the age of eighteen. Please do consider spending a couple of pounds on an extra toy during your Christmas shopping and drop it into one of the collection points at Sainsbury’s to spread the true spirit of Christmas this festive season.”

The appeal is sponsored by Foresters, the International Finance Services Organisation, and David Gale, the Specialist Orthodontic Referral Centre, and is in association with Sainsbury’s.

For those who prefer to do all their Christmas shopping via the internet, the campaign is also accepting online donations this year. To find out more about the Toy Appeal and how to donate visit wave105.com/missionchristmas

Rick Jackson to broadcast live Wave 105 presenter Rick Jackson is hoping to spread Christmas cheer across the Isle of Wight when he broadcasts his Drivetime Show live from Sainsbury’s in Newport on Thursday November 28.

Originally from Ryde, Rick is looking forward to greeting Christmas shoppers from 4pm until 8pm as they donate new, unwrapped toys to the Wave 105 Cash for Kids ‘Mission Christmas’ Toy Appeal campaign to help make a disadvantaged child’s Christmas a special one.

Every toy that is dropped off at the Newport or West Cowes Sainsbury’s on the Isle of Wight will be given to children living in poverty on the Island.

Rick says: “There are thousands of children living in poverty across the south who will wake up to a Christmas Day without any presents unless we do something to prevent this. The festive season is all about giving and we are hoping to see this in action when we meet and greet our listeners on the Isle of Wight.

“Please do pop down to say hello and drop off a toy to spread the true spirit of Christmas!”

Rick Jackson Wave 105 Cash for Kids charity manager, Gloria Hill, said: “Last year’s appeal collected an incredible 15,113 toys, beating all previous records hands down! We hope to help even more children this year but we can only do that with the support of our listeners.

We need new toys that are unwrapped, all of which will go to disadvantaged children on the Isle of Wight.”

The appeal is sponsored by Foresters, the International Finance Services Organisation, and David Gale, the Specialist Orthodontic Referral Centre, and is in association with Sainsbury’s.

For those who prefer to do all their Christmas shopping via the internet, the campaign is also accepting online donations this year.

Mark Collins with staff from Sainsburys and donated toys for the Wave 105 Cash for Kids Toy Appeal

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

MASSES FOR THE ISLAND’S VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND CHILDREN’S SERVICES PROVIDERS A local church is to dedicate Masses to vulnerable children on the Island and to those who provide children’s services.

Father Gerard Flynn, the Parish Priest of the Roman Catholic worshipping communities of St Thomas of Canterbury, Newport, and St Saviour’s, Totland, will offer the sacrifice of Mass on Sunday 1st December for the intention of the vulnerable children of the Island and a Mass the following Sunday, 8t December, for those who are responsible for the provision of children’s services, particularly at the Isle of Wight Council.

Fr Gerard explains: “There is a longstanding tradition in the Catholic Church of dedicating some Masses for specific intentions. Harrowing serious case reviews were recently published looking at what went wrong in a number of cases of abused vulnerable children, in one of which a child almost certainly died. One of my parishioners drew these to my attention and

asked if we could pray as a community for the children we have let down in the past, for those who remain vulnerable today and for those who are responsible for children’s services that they may be given the strength to persevere despite the difficult challenges they face. I felt that a very worthy intention and am pleased that we have been able to accommodate the request.”

Cllr Chris Whitehouse (Conservative, Newport West), who approached Fr Gerard with the request, adds: “As the lead for the Conservatives on Education and Children’s Services, I was greatly distressed to read the serious case reviews and to see just how badly wrong things had gone. I was also alarmed to hear from the Director of Children’s Services that, despite great progress now being made under the leadership of officers from Hampshire County Council, our most vulnerable children remain “unsafe” even today because of inadequacies in service structure

Father Gerard Flynn and processes. It seemed only right that we should dedicate specific prayer for those vulnerable children and for those whose responsibility it is to provide for them.”

The Island MP, Andrew Turner, is

hoping to attend the Mass for Children’s Services on 8th December along with members of the Isle of Wight Council.

Both Masses will be said at St Saviour’s Church, Totland at 5pm.

MP ‘Sorry to disappoint’ Media Company on Charity Matters The Island’s MP has said that he agrees with his predecessor on the influential Public Administration Select Committee (PASC), Charlie Elphicke MP after a news and events company focusing on the charity sector labelled him both ‘outspoken’ and ‘controversial’. The article published this week by Civil Society Media re-published several quotes from Mr Elphicke, the MP for Dover and Deal in an article about Andrew Turner replacing him on the Committee after he was appointed as a Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to David Lidington MP, Minister for Europe - PPSs do not sit on Select Committees.

Mr Turner said: “Much of what Charlie said is a ‘no-brainer’ – people don’t understand why some charity salaries exceed six figures; and many people agree that some spend far too much money on lobbying and boardroom bonuses when they should be concentrating on helping people in need.

I absolutely agree with those views and I know many Islanders do as

well.

Charlie has also put forward some interesting ideas about charities that rely on statutory funding being listed as separate organisations to those that don’t – and why shouldn’t they be? They are very different beasts to the many small, local charities we have on the Island.

“It was kind of Civil Society Media to detail my background in the charity and voluntary sectors and I’m sorry if this disappoints them; but if they think the professional charity sector will get an easy ride from me when working with the PASC – they simply haven’t done their homework.”

Send us a text: 07413 599 446 Or email press@iwmail.co.uk

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

LOCAL ENTERPRISE IN LINE FOR NATIONAL AWARD An Island based Mobile Vet is in line to scoop one of the top prizes in the first ever Ready For Business Awards 2013 when the cream of the country’s start-up businesses gather at a spectacular ceremony in London to celebrate enterprise and innovation.

The Mobile Vet, which was established by Dan Forster, offers all the traditional services of a regular vet but with the convenience of mobile care and has claimed the Best B2C StartUp award in the regional category for the South East and will now compete against seven other businesses at the national finals.

Ready for Business, the investment readiness start-up programme that supports new enterprises has delivered more than 2,500 new jobs nationwide since its launch last summer, with 131 jobs created in the South East.

The programme aims to create 6,000 businesses with 10,000 new jobs, is supported by the Government’s Regional Growth Fund and Barclays and is delivered by the Cavendish Consortium, a partnership between some of England’s leading enterprise agencies together with the National Enterprise Network; in the South East region, Ready for Business is provided by Enterprise First through a network of agencies.

Since launching earlier this year, The Mobile Vet has treated patients from across the Isle of Wight and allowed members of the community who may have been unable to take their pets to the vets for years due to illness or elderly related conditions access valuable care for their animals.

They have also reactivated many dormant patients who had not visited a centre for many years and had fallen behind on important courses of vaccinations or have opted not to visit a vet because their pets where considered too nervous or potentially aggressive and has also been invaluable for busy families and households with multiple pets.

Dan Forster of The Mobile Vet said; “I am delighted to have received this prestigious award so soon after establishing the business. Setting up such a novel business has been extremely hard work but the support we received from our family, friends and Ready for Business was invaluable. To have our efforts recognised is a huge achievement and we look forward to going on to the national finals and doing

the Isle of Wight proud.”

The awards recognise achievements across three categories – Best Growth Potential Start-Up, Best B2B Start-Up and Best B2C Start-Up – and have been introduced to highlight the remarkable progress that small businesses across the country have made with support from Ready for Business. More than 2,500 businesses have been established since the programme was set up in 2012 to provide individuals with concentrated support in the pre-start stages of their new business including intensive enterprise training via free Get Ready for Business Seminars delivered in partnership with Barclays, one-on-one help from a dedicated business advisor to explore and assess their business ideas and expert analysis into developing a business plan.

Kevin Horne, chairman of the Cavendish Consortium and head of the judging panel added; “What we are seeing through these awards are real and inspiring examples of just what can be achieved by individuals who have a strong commercial business idea and access to the right kind of support. Establishing a new business is not an easy challenge and there are many obstacles to be faced not just in getting a venture off the ground, but in ensuring the development and ongoing sustainability of that business to go on and potentially create muchneeded new jobs in their area.”

He continued; “These awards not only recognise the achievements of businesses such as The Mobile Vet but will hopefully inspire others looking to forge ahead with their own business ideas and we can build upon the remarkable success that Ready for Business has accomplished in a relatively short period of time.”

James Howick, Regional Director for Barclays in the South East region said: “The Barclays Get Ready for Business programme of seminars has focused on some of the most pressing issues facing start-ups during their difficult initial period – from how to get started and create a viable business plan through to getting the business in good shape for finance. It’s great that we’ve seen so many successes and worthy finalists and we wish them all the best for the inaugural Ready for Business awards 2013.”

The overall winners in each category will be announced on Monday 2nd December.

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

TEL: 07831 331717 Youth Rocketry Challenge Earlier this month around 30 MPs, including the Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, joined apprentices from companies such as Airbus and BAE Systems to launch the UK Aerospace Youth Rocketry Challenge (UKAYRoC) in the grounds of the Palace of Westminster.

The challenge is to encourage young people engaged in science, maths and English to get together and build a rocket. The task is to put together a rocket, weighing no more than 650 grams, toachieve a target altitude of 825 feet, with a flight duration of between 48 and 50 seconds, It then has to be landed safely with the use of two parachutes. The prize is to compete against American and French winning teams at Farnham International Airshow in 2014.

Mr Turner, said: “I know from working with the Technology Group, which I set up around 18 months ago, that it is imperative we attract more young people into engineering. The Group is now working with a students and staff from Christ the King College, they are working to spread the word amongst young people that there are a some great high-tech companies on the Island offering exciting job opportunities. We all need to dispel the myth that engineering is just for geeks!

“I know from initiatives I have

been involved in previously, that when young people take part in challenges such as this, they see for themselves that engineering can be exciting and interesting.

Let’s hope that lots of young Islanders take up the challenge and build a rocket. It can lead them to finding out more and considering a career in engineering.”

The UKAYRoC 2014 challenge is open to schools and youth organisations. Teams are made up of three to five students from school years 7 to 13.

Organisations are able to enter up to three teams and registration is now open.

Chairman of the Isle of Wight Technology Group, Geoff Underwood commented; “There is no better way to engage young people in engineering than to involve them in a project such as this.

Interestingly, there is particular significance to the Island in this case, since the only rockets to be built in the UK were, in fact, built by SaundersRoe in East Cowes between 1955 and 1971. The testing station is still very much in evidence at Highdown, near Totland. My father was one of the engineers involved in the construction of these rockets and it certainly had some influence on my decision to become an engineer.”

For more information on this challenge visit www.ukayroc.org

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Pennyfeathers is 'inappropriate development' says MP The Island’s MP recently spoke about planning issues in Parliament and said that he had learned from discussions with the Island’s planning chief Bill Murphy that the existence of the target of 520 dwellings per year to be built on the Island in the core strategy document made it much harder for the Council to turn down ‘inappropriate developments’ such as Pennyfeathers. Andrew Turner added that he hoped that the Isle of Wight Council could find the grounds to turn it down.

Mr Turner said during the debate: “To provide an example of certain problems, on the Isle of Wight the core strategy document sets out that we should have 520 new dwellings every year. It is not a secret that I think that is far too many, but it was not a decision for me to make; it was made, quite properly, by an elected council. However, it is now clear that the existence of

that target may make it more difficult for the Isle of Wight council effectively to oppose inappropriate developments, such as Pennyfeathers, a proposal to develop a 55-hectare greenfield site just outside Ryde.”

Speaking this week he said: “I don’t want to over-simplify the issue – and it is not an easy matter to resolve. The target of 520 houses a year is based on evidence of need, so if it is to be re-visited we must make sure that the right evidence is taken into account. For instance, now that the Localism Act is in place it is much easier for Councils to make sure that social housing goes to those with a genuine local connection – and I know that councillors are working very hard to address this.

“Following the debate, the Planning Minister, Nick Boles MP has offered me a meeting to discuss the issues I raised and I am following that up.”

COUNCILLORS WELCOME “PRODUCTIVE DISCUSSION” WITH HOVERTRAVEL

A meeting held at County Hall on Monday 11th November with Hovertravel was described as “most productive” by the Conservative Group of councillors who particularly welcome the fact that Hovertravel remains on course to introduce two new hovercraft to serve the Ryde to Southsea route.

The meeting was arranged by the Leader of the Conservative Group on the Isle of Wight Council, Cllr Dave Stewart (Chale, Niton & Whitwell) and Conservative Spokesman on Business and Tourism, Cllr Wayne Whittle (Ryde North East). It was attended by Neil Chapman, Managing Director of Hovertravel and Henry Game, Chief Executive of Hovertravel’s parent company, The Bland Group.

Speaking after the meeting, Cllr Stewart said; “We had a very productive discussion with the representatives of Hovertravel about the future challenges and opportunities for cross-Solent service providers. We were delighted that they were able to confirm that they are still on target to introduce two new hovercraft, hopefully one in 2015 and a second in 2016. This is fantastic news for the Island; it is a welcome investment and statement of long-term commitment to serving the Island’s travel needs.”

Neil Chapman of Hovertravel added: ''Hovertravel welcome the open and constructive discussions held on Monday and are pleased to engage with the council to ensure that the integral service that we as an operator provide is aligned to the future development of the Isle of Wight economy and its drive for investment. We are only too

aware of our important role in the community and therefore we believe that wider awareness of the challenges, issues and opportunities we face as an operator, in turn must be addressed and worked through so that we will enhance and enable future benefits for the Isle of Wight's residents and businesses.

We are supportive of engaging in the forums that will facilitate the ability to do this.'

Cllr Wayne Whittle said: “The confirmation that two new hovercraft are coming into service sends a clear message that the Island is open for business.

The Conservative Group is determined to find ways to stimulate economic growth on the Island. By doing so we will stimulate cross Solent commuter traffic and so help ensure that services are sustainable and affordable for Islanders.

“We support the recently launched Island Business Forum which brings together businesses, large and small, from every part of the Island. We will be arranging for Hovertravel and the other Solent service providers to attend future meetings of the Forum and were also pleased that Hovertravel are accepting the Conservative-backed invitation to attend a future meeting of the Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Panel as part of an ongoing dialogue with the Council and its members about how best we can work together to the benefit of the whole Island. Indeed, through the Forum, which has the support of the Island MP, Andrew Turner, and our excellent Destination Management Organisation, we can discuss all aspects of Solent travel from the perspective both of users and of providers.”

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Stability works at Bouldnor

Action from The Footprint Trust The local Footprint Trust charity recently received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service due to its pioneering work in helping Islanders. Last winter the charity helped dozens of local people by getting their homes insulated or providing energy efficient heating systems. The trust is now to build on this work thanks funding provided through the My Life a Full Life programme, supported by the Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), Spectrum Housing, Southern Housing, Comic Relief and The Beatrice Laing Trust.

The Trust’s new project is entitled WarmerWight-plus.

The Trust has identified a wide range of people that it wishes to assist these include; parents with young children, those seeking to live independently having left care, people who are struggling financially due to bereavement or loss, people who have issues with numeracy and literacy, those who are on low income and older people.

The Trust’s staff and volunteers will be found this winter in places where people go, including outside major supermarkets, in

social clubs and they will be found in local pubs!

The project will be launched at a public Energy Action! event on Friday 6th December at Newport’s Riverside Centre at 11am.

Information on how to get help and assistance on energy and other issues will be available. For more details please callRick or text the Footprint Trust Jackson on (01983) 822282 or email info@footprint-trust.co.uk Carole Walker the charity’s chairman said, “Thanks to this funding we are able to offer a greater service to those in greatest need. We will not just give guidance on saving energy and access to grants for insulation and new heating systems. The reason we are calling the project WarmerWight-plus is that we will be referring people to other agencies to gain assistance on other issues. We are founder members of the IsleHelp Partnership, which consists of the main advisory groups on the Isle of Wight. All of which are committed to working closer together to enable a better service for all our clients.”

The works underway involve strengthening the 700-metre section of the highway between the Viewpoint Car Park and Yarmouth Green. Thanks to discussions with the local community, the work will also now involve a significant upgrade and widening of the footway between Yarmouth Green. In partnership with Natural Enterprise and the Isle of Wight Council, the popular View Point car park will also be landscaped as part of the scheme.

The specialist piling equipment will allow up to 750 steel sheet piles to be driven as far as 16 metres into the ground. This week, a more traditional piling rig has been on site to manually drive the first of the steel piles into place.

A quieter piling system will be in operation next week and will sit on top of the piles that have already been installed and continue to install further piles, by self moving along the pile line. This method ensures much less noise and vibration is released into the surrounding area.

Kieron Blamey, Geotechnical Project Engineer said: “Our designs for this area have taken into account the close proximity of the works to surrounding properties. The use of this very

latest piling equipment will help to minimise disruption to the local community which we know is vital during these longer term works.

“Partnership working with a community minded resident has also allowed our plans to incorporate the widening of a section of narrow pavement up to the View Point car park. We know the width of the pavement on this popular route has been a longstanding local concern. As a direct result of the kind donation of a piece of garden by a resident, we are able to widen this section, as well as other sections within our ownership as part of this scheme. This will ensure there is a suitable width pavement from Yarmouth Green through to the View Point car park.”

Cllr Jonathan Gilbey, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member responsible for the Highways PFI, said: “The major investment in this area will not only save this important section of road but will help to increase safety for pedestrians. This is another example where the benefits of the PFI are felt by the wider Island community.”

Bouldnor Road will remain open under temporary traffic lights while this piling work is completed.

Parliamentarian of the Year The Island’s MP has been named as a joint winner of the ‘2013 Parliamentarian of the Year’ award. The Spectator magazine the oldest continuously published magazine in the English language - sponsor the competition and has never previously awarded the top accolade to more than one parliamentarian. However, this year the, ‘the Glorious 15’, as they dubbed the MPs who voted in favour of press freedom were named joint winners in an event held at the Savoy Hotel in London. Mr Turner said: “I was surprised but delighted to receive this award – I’m only sorry that so few colleagues recognised the threat presented by bringing in political control of the press. We have had a free press for 300 years – it has been held up as a model around the world and it should have been fiercely guarded as one of our proudtest traditions.

Instead, regulation of the Press has been introduced using a Royal

Charter overseen by Privy Councillors; an idea cooked up over late night pizza in Ed Milliband’s office, with members of the ‘Hacked Off’ campaign.

It has no democratic legitimacy.

“Politicians shouldn’t control the press – nor should the rich and famous, particularly those who have used the press to their own advantage. The job of a free press is to publish and be damned – not be fettered by politicians and judges. Of course they must behave responsibly and the vast majority of our press do. There are some terrible stories of phone hacking and other illegal activities, but they were carried out by a few journalists working for national tabloids – some are already in prison and others are on trial. In a silly knee-jerk response we have brought in laws that cover local newspapers and boatbuilding & cookery magazines – which have never done anything wrong.”

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

THE ISLE OF WIGHT FESTIVAL NOMINATED FOR PROMOTER OF THE YEAR @ THE UK FESTIVAL AWARDS 2013 The Isle of Wight Festival is extremely excited and proud to announce it has been nominated in the final JURY-decided shortlist for Promoter Of The Year (Isle Of Wight Festival team) Award at the UK Festival Awards 2013.

Taking place on Monday 2nd December at The Roundhouse, the prestigious awards ceremony will see the Festival’s promoter himself, John Giddings and team join industry leaders for the much anticipated result, decided by the Festival Awards board. The annual event is an opportunity to recognise the hard work, vision and creativity of the festival industry, through fan voting and judging panels made up of experts.

John Giddings, the Festival’s promoter said: “It is fantastic to have the Isle of Wight Festival team recognised for all of the hard

work that they put in to get the event back on track after the problems caused by bad weather on the opening day of 2012. We had a month’s rain in a day, and they pulled it together to make it happen. It sorted the men form the boys (girls) and the new structure that was put in place for 2013 worked perfectly. They deserve the nomination – thank you!!”

As the first major Festival of the season taking place from 12th – 15th June 2014, the iconic weekend gives festivalgoers 3 jam-packed days of live music & entertainment. From exclusive headline performances on the Main Stage & under the Big Top, to cabaret shows, comedy, a real beach & even hot tubs, there’s something different around every corner. For more information head to www.isleofwightfestival.com.

BESTIVAL CAMPSITE DESIGN'S A WINNER FOR STUDENT! Isle of Wight College student Eleanor Hortion has been declared the winner of this year’s ‘HMS Bestival’ themed Bestival Campsite Hub Decor competition.

Eleanor’s design, which adorned one of Bestival’s colour-coded Campsite Hubs, beat off competition from fellow IOW College students Ellisha Williams, Hobie Harwood, Lily Lofthouse, Jade Barry, Martyn Fisher, Brad Parratt, and Alice Barnes.

The Josie da Bank judged competition, which is an integral part of Bestival’s partnerships with IOW organisations, is run in conjunction with IOW College.

Level 2/3 Art and Design course students take part, giving up their summer holiday time to not only design the distinctive Campsite Hub décor, but also to learn vital real life skills as part of the build team at Bestival, taking in onsite health & safety rules and the realities of seeing a design from draft to pride of place in situ at the campsites.

Commenting on her win, Eleanor said, ‘It was an exciting and unpredictable experience that taught me a lot about working in the real world. I have learnt the value of team work, and now have a better understanding of working with a real client’.

Eleanor and her winning design

Listen online at

wightislandradio.com

Isle of Wight

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

New Business Forum discusses Street Trading and Ferries Around forty business representatives attended the inaugural meeting of the Island Business Forum (IBF) at the Riverside Centre on Friday (8th November). The forum has been set up to provide a united voice for the Island’s business community and representatives from individual companies and existing business groups attended.

The groups present included Island-wide organisations Chamber of Commerce (CofC) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and local groups including Bembridge, Cowes, Newport, Ryde, Sandown and Ventnor Business Associations, Shanklin Hotel and Accommodation Association and West Wight Marketing Group.

Cllr. Wayne Whittle, business spokesman for the Conservative councillors set up the first meeting and chaired it. However, he told those present that whilst he will work hard to support local businesses he believes that a nonpolitical figure should run the IBF. It was therefore decided that a Chairman would be elected at the next meeting.

Issues discussed included the consultation on the IW Council’s policies for street trading and how businesses should respond to the Council’s decision to invite the Island’s ferry companies to meetings of the scrutiny committee. A delegation of five representatives will be formulating a response to the scrutiny process on behalf of the IBF. Mr Whittle said: “I was pleased with the turnout for our first meeting – a wide range of businesses were represented and we had a lively discussion, particularly about Council

scrutiny of the ferry companies.

Counting the membership of the CofC, the FSB and the other business groups we can already reach a large number of Island businesses; so one idea is that we seek to negotiate discounted ferry crossings. That is something I will be working on before the next meeting. I am determined this is not going to be a talking shop – we will be working to get real results.

“It was also decided that Tourism and Planning will be on the agenda of the next meeting and I am pleased that David Thornton, Chief Executive of Visit Isle of Wight and Cllr. Jonathan Bacon, Cabinet Member responsible for planning have already agreed to attend.”

The next meeting will be held on Friday 7th February at 10.30am.

Representatives from all Island businesses are welcome but as the venue will depend on how many are expected to attend those who would like to join the meeting can e-mail mail@islandmp.com or call 530808 as soon as possible.

The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, who is supporting the Forum said: “The existing business groups do great jobs for their members – it would be foolish to replicate their work. The IBF provides a way for them to come together with companies that don’t currently belong to any group to consider Island-wide issues that affect businesses working together makes very good sense.

There is no membership fee so any Island company representative can come along to the meetings or sign up to hear what the group is doing by sending your company’s details to mail@islandmp.com .”

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CROSS PARTY COOPERATION ON SCHOOLS GETS BACKING

Cllr Priest The determination of two Isle of Wight Councillors to work together to sort out education and children’s services on the Island has received personal backing from the Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove.

Mr Gove wrote to Island MP, Andrew Turner, encouraging “Cllr Priest and Cllr Whitehouse to continue their efforts” and stated “I am in no doubt, however, about the scale of the challenge that exists to improve education standards across the island.

Clearly there are significant deficiencies which need to be addressed”. He went on to warn that “This may involve Cllr Whitehouse and Cllr Priest making hard decisions” but stated that “My expectation is that they will take whatever action is required in the best interests of all pupils on the island.”

Cllr Chris Whitehouse (Newport

Cllr Whitehouse West) who speaks on education for the Conservative Group of Isle of Wight Councillors said: “I am greatly encouraged and deeply flattered that the Secretary of State should be personally monitoring the work that Cllr Richard Priest and I are undertaking on the island to drive up education standards for all our children. It is a real boost to know that from the highest level of government our commitment to sort out the problems that have arisen on the Island is noted.”

Since first being elected following May’s local government elections, Cllr Priest, who leads on schools for the Independent Administration, and Cllr Whitehouse have worked together putting party politics on one side to drive up education standards.

“We will continue to do so” added Cllr Whitehouse.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Duke of Kent formally opens Integrated Care Hub & Helipad £250,000 contribution from County Air Ambulance Trust towards Helipad On a visit to the Isle of Wight on Tuesday 12th November, HRH The Duke of Kent KG visited St. Mary’s to formally open the Island’s unique Integrated Care Hub call centre and the hospital’s new Helipad.

On arrival HRH was greeted by IW NHS Trust Chairman Danny Fisher and Trust CEO Karen Baker. They escorted HRH into the Integrated Care Hub where HRH was introduced to Head of Ambulance Service, Mr Chris Smith.

Mr Smith escorted HRH around the Integrated Care Hub explaining how this unique facility works.

Chris Smith, Head of the Island’s Ambulance Service said: “The Integrated Care Hub was established in with the support of IW Council and Isle of Wight Clinical Commissioning Group to manage and coordinate all emergency, urgent and unscheduled care for the Island.

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

The Integrated Care Hub has a sophisticated and robust IT infrastructure to support this unique solution, which enables the sharing of information with all health and social care professionals involved in the patient/client’s care package.

The Hub is a whole system approach, linking the hospital, ambulance, GPs in and out of hours, district nursing, multidisciplinary community support teams, mental health and social care through a call centre that promotes interdisciplinary working and provides a single point of contact for patients through two main telephone numbers, 999 and 111. This is achieved following initial triage using NHS Pathways, where patients are signposted to the most appropriate professional through the use of a comprehensive capacity management system and directory of services (DOS) that includes all services provided on the Isle of Wight.

Mr Smith continued: “In the future we hope that Integrated Care Hub will support remote monitoring through telehealth and telecare to support caring for patients in their own home,

avoiding admissions and facilitating early discharge from hospital.

Trust CEO Karen Baker then escorted HRH to the Helipad where a ribbon was cut to mark the official opening.

HRH was then shown onto the Helipad where he was introduced to the crew of the Hampshire andwere raised by public subscription through the County Air Ambulance Trust who fund helipad developments. Presenting the Trust with £250,000 County Air Ambulance Trust Chairman Hugh Meynell MBE said: “We’re very pleased to support the development of this new Helipad Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.

Following a period of intensive training the new Helipad became operational on the 17th May 2013.

It was tested with flights by the Air Ambulance and Coastguard working with the Trust’s staff to ensure that the handover of patients is managed safely.

In an urgent situation the turn round time on the Helipad is around four minutes.

Capital Projects Manager, Rob Graham said: “This has been a tremendous team effort to bring this £1.45m development to completion. Members of our Capital Projects Team have worked closely with the external contracting teams including Bayard's who provided the helipad structure and the site management team from Mansell. Of particular concern was the need to leave undisturbed the burial ground from the Workhouse which has now been marked with a permanent memorial. This has been a very successful project which ultimately will save lives.”

Chief Executive Karen Baker said: “This fantastic new development enables patients with life threatening injuries to be flown from the Trauma Unit at St. Mary’s to the Trauma Centre at University Hospital Southampton or to other specialist centres. It will also enable St. Mary’s to receive more directly patients who require transfer by helicopter from incidents elsewhere on the Island.

We’re very grateful to everyone who has been involved in its development and to the County Air Ambulance Trust for their funding.”

Just under a quarter of the development costs of the Helipad for the Island. The benefits of the new Helipad are already being felt

and we have agreed that we will now fund a covered walkway from the hospital to the helipad to protect patients and staff during inclement weather. I would like to express a big thank you to everyone who has dontated to the County Air Ambulance Trust.”

St. Mary’s Hospital Emergency Department Consultant Robin Beal says: “The Helipad means faster and better treatment for patients. The Helipad enables us to fly patients from St. Mary’s instead of the old arrangement of a transfer by ambulance to Seaclose before the patient can be airlifted off the Island which used to take around 45 minutes. Patients with trauma are now regularly flown to Southampton and cardiac patients to Portsmouth. Some patients, for example those with burns or head, brain or spinal injuries may go further afield. The addition of the Helipad will make the transfer easier for patients and staff.”

St. Mary’s Hospital is now part of the Wessex major trauma network and the Emergency Department at the hospital is one of seven

designated trauma units which will stabilise some patients prior to rapid transfer to a major trauma centre, or treat less serious injuries such as fractures and minor head injuries.

Planning permission for the Helipad was granted by Isle of Wight Council in April 2012 and construction started in October 2012.

The Helipad was constructed by Mansell Balfour Beatty plc using primarily their island based supply chain. Ian Lemon, Contracts Manager for Mansell Balfour Beatty plc said: “This has been a great project to work on which will be of tremendous benefit to the island community. Whilst we have the specialist expertise to manage large projects like these we use many local companies to support us and have employed many Islanders to help deliver the project. This is another example of our continued long term relationship with the Isle of Wight NHS Trust where this project was delivered on time and within Budget.”

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

TEXTBOOK RESPONSE TO KAHU SALVAGE Cowes Harbour Commission (CHC) reported that the intricate operation to salvage the burnt and sunken 70 foot, 114 ton superyacht Kahu from the riverbed in East Cowes Marina, was completed successfully after a great team effort. The technical and logistical challenges of safely salvaging the Kahu were considerable, necessitating a 24/7 operation from the time of the fire being first reported. With highly sensitive environmental areas of mudflats and saltmarch upstream from the scene on the River Medina, and 8,000 litres of diesel onboard the Kahu, the concern was to prevent significant pollution to the area and this was achieved.

Andrew Healy, Counter Pollution and Salvage Officer at the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, said: "This was a model multi-agency response to a complex pollution incident.

There was very minimal impact on

the local environment as a result of this incident."

Chair of the Solent Environment Group, Mike O'Neill said: "Thanks to the efforts of Cowes Harbour Commission team and the other responders the impact on the environment was kept to an absolute minimum.

The Solent Environment Group was able to provide advice on how sensitive the River Medina is to help plan the salvage of the vessel.”

Harbour Master, Capt. Stuart McIntosh said: “It’s reassuring to know that within the Cowes and Solent region the expertise exists to handle an incident of this magnitude.

The professionalism shown by the salvage team was exemplary together with the efforts from my own team here at the Harbour Commission. All the players went the extra mile to achieve an excellent result.”

Photo Credit: Sally Water Taxis

RECYCLING SACKS NOW AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY The Council is making it easier for residents who use clear recycling sacks to get additional supplies when they run out.

Currently, homeowners need to contact the council to request a delivery if they run out or are getting low. Once the council receives this request, it can take up to four weeks to deliver additional sacks.

Council and community run libraries will now stock clear recycling sacks which residents can go and collect.

However, residents are still required to contact the council when they request more sacks as they will be given a reference number to use at their library.

This means stocks of sacks can be correctly managed and allocated as appropriate.

Sue Dasent, the Council's strategic manager for procurement and contract management said "Although households that use clear recycling sacks are given an annual supply in January each year, some residents recycle more and therefore run out of bags before their next delivery.

"We then arrange for additional sacks to be sent out to the homeowner but this is a costly exercise and is also a lengthy process. We are pleased that residents will be able to collect bags from their local library."

Rob Jones, the council's library

Photo Credit: Sally Water Taxis

services manager added "This addition to services at council libraries is a natural extension to those already on offer and I am sure it will be welcomed by residents who need additional recycling sacks."

Any residents requesting clear recycling sacks once they run low should continue to call the council on 823777. If the request is approved, the caller can then chose to collect the sacks from their local library or continue to have them delivered. If they want to collect them from the library, they will be provided with a unique reference number which they will need to quote when picking up the bags.

Should residents run out of sacks before receiving their additional stock, they can place recyclable waste in coloured bin sacks as long as they are not black or grey in colour. Green sacks may also be used but any green garden waste must only be placed in the pre-paid garden waste sacks.

Photo Credit: Sally Water Taxis

Photo Credit: Sally Water Taxis

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Under 25 Trophy Extended to Support 20 Crews in 2014 Since its introduction in 2012, the Aberdeen Asset Management Under 25 Trophy has proven to be a popular addition to one of the UK's longest running and most successful sailing events. Now in its third year, Aberdeen is delighted to announce that the opportunity for young teams to compete at Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week 2014 will be extended even further.

Having funded 15 crews aged 25 or under to participate in the regatta in 2013, Aberdeen’s support of the youth sailing initiative is being increased to 20 crews in 2014. The first 20 crews to enter the event and confirm their entire team of under 25-yearolds will have their entry fees covered by Aberdeen, as well as receiving team sailing kit and having the chance to compete for the prestigious Under 25 Trophy.

Jill Maxwell, Sponsorship and Events Manager at Aberdeen Asset Management, said: “The Aberdeen Asset Management Under 25 Trophy is an initiative we are very proud of at Aberdeen, so we are pleased to announce that in 2014 we will be increasing our support to the first 20 crews to enter the

regatta. We hope that backing the crews in this way encourages more young sailors to enter the regatta and compete for the title.

We are thrilled with how the initiative has grown in popularity and awareness since its inception and seeing the Under 25 crews wearing their Aberdeen kit around the regatta with pride this summer was very rewarding.”

Sailors Chris Taylor (19), Tim Gratton (18), Ben Gratton (20), Peter Alton (21), and Anna Masters (19) predominantly from Hayling Island Sailing Club in Hampshire, became the second crew to claim the Aberdeen Asset Management Under 25 Trophy by winning the 2013 regatta in their J/80, J.A.T. J.A.T. skipper, Chris Taylor, said: “We were all so happy to win the Aberdeen Asset Management Under 25 Trophy in 2013. It was a brilliant week’s sailing with some tricky wind conditions pushing the crew to the best of their abilities. The Under 25 trophy is such a great way of encouraging youth teams to enter the regatta, it’s great to hear even more crews will be funded in 2014, as without this support

from Aberdeen lots of younger crews wouldn’t be able to compete.”

Stuart Quarrie, Sailing Director at Cowes Week Limited (CWL), added: “It’s fantastic that Aberdeen Asset Management is extending its support for young sailors at the 2014 regatta. We’ve already had several enquiries

from young crews eager to capitalise on the opportunity and enter early for next year and the initiative is going from strength to strength.” For all the latest news and information on how to enter the 2014 Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week, please visit the official website at www.aamcowesweek.co.uk

J A T Under 25 trophy winners Skipper Chris Taylor centre with trophy

Island MP appointed to Senior Select Committee Andrew Turner has been appointed to the influential Public Administration Select Committee (PASC), which scrutinises the work of the Civil Service and the reports produced by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman. The Island’s MP already serves on the Political and Constitutional Reform Select Committee and will in future sit as a member of both Committees.

Select committees members are appointed by the House of Commons to undertake inquiries into a wide range of issues and scrutinise Government policy.

They decide collectively which issues they wish to consider and take evidence from the public, expert witnesses, interested groups and individuals with relevant experience.

Their reports are published and the Government is required to make a formal response to their findings.

Most select committees scrutinise the work of a single department, but three Committees can study the work of any department, or look at issues across all departments.

Bernard Jenkin MP, the Chair of the Committee, welcomed the Appointment: “Andrew is an experienced and popular colleague; I am delighted he has been appointed to my committee. Select committees work on a cross party basis holding the Government to account; it is an important role and Andrew is highly respected for his intellect and integrity. He is a great addition to PASC, one of only three senior cross-departmental select committees, and I am very much looking forward to working with him."

Mr Turner said he was looking forward to his new role: “I enjoy getting my teeth into the detailed, cross-party work that takes place in select committees and the PASC is currently scrutinising some important topics, including crime statistics and the Government’s plans for public service reform. The insight you get from the work is very useful for speaking in the Chamber and getting to grips with constituency problems. I am looking forward to this new role.”

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

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Children across the Isle of Wight celebrate receiving this year’s Active Kids equipment Local schools and groups including St. Thomas of Canterbury Primary School, 1st Wootton Scout group and Northwood Primary school are celebrating after receiving this year’s Active Kids equipment. In total 89 schools, groups and clubs are registered to the scheme, which has helped to donated £397,413 worth of equipment across the Isle of Wight since the scheme began in 2005.

Global superstar David Beckham became an Active Kids ambassador in 2011. David said: "I'm passionate about inspiring kids to try a new sport and that's exactly what Active Kids is all about - encouraging kids to try, and hopefully really enjoy, something new. Well done to all those schools, groups and clubs across the Isle of Wight for taking part this year and I hope they enjoy their new equipment”.

Newport C of E Primary, was the top collecting organisation this year, collecting £37,069 The school has been registered to the Active Kids scheme since 2005.

Sainsbury’s customers collected vouchers in-store between 30th January and 22nd May, earning 1 voucher for every £10 spent.

Schools, groups and clubs including Gurnard County Primary who collected 33,001 and Carisbrooke C of E who collected 25,455 have recently received their order of this year’s equipment.

Sainsbury’s Newport Store Manager Paul Dyer said: “We’re looking forward to congratulating

our customers and participating schools, groups and clubs. The scheme really has grown over the last nine years and our customers have played a massive part in ensuring we continue to encourage all children, regardless of ability, to lead healthier, more active lifestyles”. The desire by young people to get active and follow in the footsteps of their sporting heroes is echoed by a new survey of young people from the Youth Sport Trust, a partner of the retailer, as part of its Lead Your Generation campaign. The results show that: • Nearly two thirds (64%) of 1118 year olds are still inspired by Team GB's performance at London 2012 • Well over half (60%) believe schools and young people should play a leading role in delivering an Olympic and Paralympic Credit Isle of Wight Council legacy • More than two thirds (67%) believe taking part in PE helps them perform better in school The scheme has seen a surge in interest for sporting equipment and experiences following last summer's games with nearly 52,000 schools, clubs and groups now signed up to benefit from their membership to Sainsbury's Active Kids. This year alone, the scheme has delivered over £13 million worth of equipment and experiences to schools, clubs and organisations, up £5 million on the previous year. Meanwhile, £136m worth of equipment and experiences has been donated to schools, groups and clubs across the UK since it launched in 2005.

“Tractor speed move will cut red tape” The CLA has strongly welcomed the Department for Transport’s decision to open a consultation to raise the maximum speed for tractors and increase the maximum weight of trailers – cutting red tape.

The Association, said it provided a clear statement about the Department for Transport’s commitment to implement suggestions made under the Farming Regulation Taskforce (MacDonald) Report.

CLA South East director Robin Edwards said: “It is hugely encouraging to see a government department looking at ways in which it can remove red tape and

burdens to agricultural businesses.

“The scale and sophistication of agricultural machinery has increased significantly over the past decade but the law has changed little since the 1980s.

“The proposed changes will more appropriately reflect the capabilities of modern agricultural machinery, allowing the UK’s farmers to carry on with their businesses more efficiently.”

The maximum speed limit for tractors would rise from 20mph to 25mph, and the maximum combined weight of a tractor and trailer from around 24 tonnes to 31 tonnes.

In the photo from left to right is: Top: Tanya Blake (Sainsbury's Newport) William Bradley (5) Elize Hallam (7) Jacob Thomas (5) Elsie March (6) Jamie Smith (9) Rosie Baker (Sainsbury's West Cowes) Bottom row: Felix Duber (9) Eden Boorman (9) James Watson (6) Caitlyn Priddle Priddle (10) Freya Bently (7)

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

SHORTLISTED FOR NEW WASTE CONTRACT The Isle of Wight Council is a step closer to selecting a company to deliver a new waste contract for the Island which aims to increase recycling and minimise the amount of household waste sent for landfill.

From the nine companies that expressed an interest in bidding for the contract and passed the pre-qualification stage, five have been shortlisted to progress to the next stage of the tender process.

These are: Biffa, AmeyCespa, Veolia, Viridor and Serco (a consortium), and FCC Environment.

Each has been invited to submit proposals on how they plan to collect and process the Island’s waste while meeting the strict targets set by the council.

Councillor Luisa Hillard, Cabinet member for sustainability, said: “It is still early days in the process but I trust the initial solutions for the collection, recycling and treatment of our residential waste will be an exciting mix of innovation and proven technology that should help the Island to become more sustainable, as aspired to in the Framework for Change.”

Under the new contract, the bidders have been set a requirement to achieve a recycling and composting rate for all municipal waste on the Island of 55 per cent by 2020 and 60 per cent by 2025.

The new contract will also require the contractor to achieve a 90 per cent diversion from landfill rate of all municipal waste by 2025.

More generally, the council has specified that the new contract will: * maximise recycling and recovery of energy; * maximise the diversion of waste from landfill; * meet the council’s legal and strategic objectives; and * reduce the long term financial commitment for waste management for the council.

Councillor Jonathan Gilbey, Cabinet member for resources, said: “We are determined this contract will be to the Island’s long-term advantage, both in terms of achieving the best possible recycling rates and an efficient and economicallyviable waste collection and processing service for Island residents.

“The new contract provides us with the opportunity to analyse and review in detail how we collect and use our waste on the Island, especially with a view to our increasing population and the amount of waste we produce and recycle.”

The new contract, due to start in October 2015, will replace the existing integrated municipal waste contract which has been operated by Island Waste Services (a subsidiary of Biffa) since 1997.

Many Unaware of HIV According to a new Public Health England (PHE) report, published in the run up to National HIV Testing Week, around a fifth of people living with HIV in the UK are unaware of their infection, and need to be tested. Further, around half of the 6,360 people newly diagnosed with HIV in 2012 were identified late.

New HIV diagnoses among men who have sex with men (MSM) also reached an alltime high, with 3,250 cases in 2012.

Between 2011 and 2012 a small decline in the proportion of people living with HIV unaware was seen (25% to 22%), but this needs to be accelerated as early HIV

diagnosis and timely treatment can nowadays mean a nearnormal lifespan. This is why National HIV Testing Week (22-29 November) is so important, raising awareness of the benefits of testing and encouraging the people most at risk, MSM and black Africans, to get tested.

National guidelines recommend that HIV testing should be offered routinely to everyone admitted to hospital and people registering with a GP surgery in areas of the country with HIV prevalence greater than 2 per 1000 people. Introducing additional ways to get tested, such as home-sampling services, is also encouraging more people to test.

Carbon Monoxide Warning!

Public Health England is advising people to have their fossil fuel and wood burning appliances – such as boilers, heaters and cookers – checked by an appropriately registered engineer before winter sets in.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas which is difficult to detect. At high levels CO poisoning can cause sudden collapse, loss of consciousness and death. Other symptoms of CO poisoning include headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, chest pains, nausea and vomiting.

There are around 40 accidental deaths a year from carbon monoxide poisoning in England and Wales Dr Simon Bouffler of Public Health England’s Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards (CRCE) said: “Many of these deaths take place between November and February due to faulty fossil fuel and wood burning appliances giving off this lethal gas. These deaths are preventable.”

“To lower the risk, people should ensure that their fossil fuel and

wood burning appliances are regularly checked by an appropriately registered engineer.

PHE recommends that people have these appliances and their flues checked before the start of winter.

Rooms in which appliances are used must also be adequately ventilated.”

The installation of an alarm, which can be bought from most DIY retailers, should not, however, replace regular servicing of all fossil fuel and wood burning appliances by a registered engineer.

It is estimated that around 4,000 people attend accident and emergency departments in England each year because of carbon monoxide poisoning

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

New Hoverbus for Hovertravel Hovertravel have announced that their Hoverbus service, which is operated by Stagecoach, has a new vehicle with a new look. The new vehicle has been funded by Portsmouth City Council Local Sustainable Transport Fund and its livery supports My Journey, who offer travel advice which saves time and money.

Neil Chapman, Managing Director of Hovertravel said: “The new bus not only looks great, but it is also more comfortable, better for the environment and up to date with the latest technology, giving an overall better travel experience for Hovertravel customers.”

Free wi-fi is available for all customers travelling on the new bus.

Hovertravel's Hoverbus is the perfect way to travel around Portsmouth and Southsea for just £1.30 per single journey per child & £1.50 per adult. Not only will the Hoverbus take you to and from the Hoverport at

Southsea Seafront for your quick and easy trips to the Isle of Wight, but it will also take you around Portsmouth & Southsea.

The Hoverbus conveniently stops at The Hard Interchange which is ideal for onward travel by buses, trains at Portsmouth Harbour Station and coaches, Gosport Ferry and Gunwharf Quays. This also makes travelling to Portsmouth’s Historic Dockyards including the fabulous new Mary Rose Museum and Spinnaker Tower hassle-free.

Hovertravel and Portsmouth City Council have introduced the new bus to encourage less people to travel by car and to overall improve Portsmouth’s environment. The My Journey initiative is also working very hard to improve traveller’s wellbeing and to reduce carbon output at the same time.

For more information visit: www.hovertravel.co.uk and www.myjourneyportsmouth.com

Paul Griffiths from the Mary Rose Museum, John Houghton & Catherine Bennett from Portsmouth City Council, Mark Turner from Stagecoach & Neil Chapman from Hovertravel

HUNDREDS TOOK ON THE STOPTOBER CHALLENGE Nearly 600 people from across Isle of Wight joined a quarter of a million people across the nation in turning their back on cigarettes during last month’s mass 28-day stop smoking challenge, Stoptober.

Research shows that stopping smoking for 28 days can extend your life by up to one week if you remain smoke free.

The new ex-smokers across the Isle of Wight are therefore celebrating their first steps towards a healthier, smoke free life, and if they succeed in quitting for good, they could collectively add as much as 12 years of life to the population.

Simon Bryant, acting director for public health at the Isle of Wight Council, said: “It is really good news that so many Island residents have been inspired to take on the Stoptober challenge. It is never too late to stop smoking and the Island stop smoking service will offer support to quit throughout the year.

This help is available through your

GP or Chamber Health on 554545.

Good luck to everyone on your journey to being smoke free.”

By taking part in Stoptober, it is not just the health benefits that have been reaped: * The average smoker has 13 cigarettes a day, which equates to 364 cigarettes every four weeks. * Stoptober would have saved them £141 each over four weeks, and if they remain smokefree, they could save £423 by Christmas and £1,696 in a year. * Collectively, if all Stoptober participants in the Isle of Wight quit for the 28 days this month they would have saved over £84,600.00. * With the average cigarette taking approximately 4 minutes to smoke, this Stoptober could have saved the average smoker over 24 hours by not smoking; and cumulatively the nation’s Stoptober participants would have gained over 680 years in spare time.

Stoptober started on 1 October 2013 and ran for 28 days.

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The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 22 nd November 2013

Isle of Wight Sports