Issue 07 - The Isle of Wight Mail

mail Isle of Wight

The island's free community newspaper

www.medinatheatre.co.uk - www.ratpack.biz

# GET THE LATEST NEWS, VIEWS AND COMMUNITY INFORMATION ONLINE AT WWW.IWMAIL.CO.UK #

OUR ISLAND

Making Your Medicines Safer

IW Independents could form the first wholly-independent council since 73

Relief For Back Pain Sufferers

Who Stole These Stone Tops?

In a historic move, Island Independents have signalled their intention to form the first wholly-independent council since 1973, following their victory in last week’s local elections. The group comprises twenty Independent Councillors who have all signed up to the Bell Principles of Independent Political Conduct. - Page 21

WIN TICKETS TO THIS YEARS ISLE OF WIGHT FESTIVAL – SEE WWW.FB.COM/ISLEOFWIGHTMAIL

ISSUE NUMBER 07 Friday 10th May 2013

2

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

3

World’s finest carnival float builders visit the Island Two of the world’s finest carnival float builders and designers are visiting Isle of Wight from 13 May to help The New Carnival Company design and build its signature Mardi Gras float for the Midsummer Mardi Gras Parade in Ryde June 29th.

Umberto Cinquini and Silvia Cirri from Viareggio in Italy, home to the largest Carnival floats in the world, are experts in the traditional art of paper mache construction, animation and painting techniques and will be helping local artists reconstruct The New Carnival Company’s famous ‘Zeus the Bull’ float to represent The Boeuf Gras (the Fattened Bull) traditionally paraded in New Orleans on Shrove Tuesday (Fat Tuesday) – a homage to the most famous Mardi Gras in the World.

The visit strengthens the bond between Viareggio Carnival and The New Carnival Company’s own event. In February 2012 the two organisations signed a formal Twinning Protocol at an Official Reception hosted by the Fondazione Carnivale Di Viareggio in Italy.

Frankie Goldspink, Participation and Learning Manager of The New Carnival Company said ‘We are very privileged to have such accomplished world class artists visiting us to share their skills and knowledge and ensure our Midsummer Mardi Gras parade kicks off with a signature float of the very highest quality’ During their visit Umberto and Silvia will be hosting an evening at the Black Sheep Cellar Bar in Ryde to talk about their work and experiences with any interested parties. The event takes place on Wednesday 15 May at 7.30pm and has free entry.

Umberto and Silvia’s winning float from Viareggio Carnival 2013

Umberto and Silvia’s winning float from Viareggio Carnival 2013

The Island's most talented performers are coming together to help raise money for the Lottie Rann Trust Many of the Islands most talended performers are coming together to help raise money for The Lottie Rann Trust in what is set to be an incredible concert at Medina Theatre. Lottie Rann who is only 11 years old, contracted meningitis for the 2nd time last April and has been left paralysed from the neck down, the island has come together to help support her and her family in getting Lottie home to the Island to be with her family and friends.

The people who are performing in

this concert feel very passionate about helping Lottie they all want to help and therefore are using their talent to help support the family and get Lottie home.

The acts included: Islands most famous folk, rock band 'Lucid', the Wonderful 'Medina Community Choir', the 2013 Comic relief winners 'Resonate', the fantastic 'Jim Thorn Trio', the beautiful and unique 'Floella Grace', the fantastic violinist 'Hannah Larkin', plus many phenomenal solos/ duets

from Ashley Mackness, Hannah Brear, Lizzie Back, Callum and Jesse Rann. A musical theatre piece from the 'Savoyards' and a band that is coming all the way from the mainland starring Lottie's uncle the 'Screeming Steel'.

The performance will be taking place at Medina Theatre on Thursday 30th May from 7.30pm till 10pm.

Tickets can be purchased from Medina Box Office: 527020 Tickets priced at £15.00.

4

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Congratulations & Commiserations from MP The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner has offered his congratulations to all Council and Town and Parish Councillors elected last week. He also praised those who stood unsuccessfully in the elections.

Mr Turner said: “The Island didn’t follow national trends – as ever Islanders made up their own minds. I am personally sorry that the Conservatives have lost the majority on the County Council, but as the Island’s MP I am committed to working with whoever is elected for the good of the Island. There are good councillors who have lost their seats – and I thank them for everything they have done, in some cases over many years.

There are also some interesting

new faces at County Hall and I look forward to working with councillors of all parties – as well as those not aligned to any political party. I also particularly want to pay tribute to those who put themselves forward for election and were unsuccessful.

You should only ever take part in an election if you are prepared to lose, but that doesn’t mean being on the losing side is easy. In my time I have experienced both electoral success and failure so I know it can sometimes be hard to pick yourself up, dust yourself down and keep right on!. But everybody who put themselves forward has played an important part in the democratic process and should be proud of that.”

Police name man following Fatal Collision Police are now in a position to name a man who died after a single vehicle collision in Wroxall on the Isle of Wight.

Thomas Keith Rogers, aged 71 of Shanklin Road, Godshill, lost control of his silver coloured Nissan Qashqa after becoming ill at the wheel and collided with a wall outside of the Four Seasons Public House on Clarence Road, shortly after 5.54pm on Wednesday, May 1. Officer in the case, PC Geoff Turner of the Isle of Wight Roads Policing Unit said: “Investigations, and

subsequent post mortem examination has shown that Mr Rogers died of natural causes, losing control of his car and colliding with the wall.

“No other person or vehicle was involved. It is of great comfort to the family that no-one was killed in the collision and that there was nothing Mr Rogers could have done to prevent it.

The family would like to thank emergency services as well as members of the public and staff of the pub for their assistance.

Police appeal after mountain bike stolen from garage in Newport Police are appealing for information after a mountain bike was stolen from a garage in Lukely Gardens, Newport overnight on Tuesday, May 7.

The bike is a men’s Silver/Grey Mongoose 21 gear. It has a distinctive custom fitted mudflap with the words ‘DIRT MONKEY’ written across it.

Newport Safer Neighbourhoods team advice: Get a good quality ‘d’ lock, look for the Sold Secure logo on approved locks.

Dramatic Bank Holiday Rescue in high winds At 2.30pm on Saturday 4th May the Yarmouth RNLI lifeboat was called to assist the yacht, Marta, which had reported two crew members overboard and one with serious head injuries off Hurst Castle in the Western Solent.

In strong winds and rough seas a 40 year old woman sustained serious head injuries as a result of being hit by the boom. In the confusion a man and a woman were thrown overboard. The woman was quickly recovered by the remaining crew but the man was in the water for 15 minutes and was bordering on hypothermic. Both those in the water sustained minor injuries.

The Coastguard Helicopter was called to assist the seriously injured woman who was drifting in and out of consciousness.

With the help of the lifeboat crew she was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital where it was reported that she was in a stable condition.

The yacht was escorted into Yarmouth by the lifeboat where Isle of Wight ambulance teams assessed the two crew members who had been in the water. They were said to be shocked but otherwise all right. The yacht later made her own way back to her home port of Lymington.

Always lock you bike every time you leave it even if only for a couple of minutes.

Remove any quick release parts or chain them to you bike.

Register your bike for free at www.immobilise.com and help the police reunite lost and stolen property to its rightful owner.

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

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

STAY UP TO DATE ON YOUR MOBILE OR TABLET: WWW.IWMAIL.CO.UK www.fb.com/isleofwightmail | www.twitter.com/iwmail

of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013 IsleTheofIsleWight Mail – February 2012

5

Making Your Medicines Safer for You From 1st April patients requiring changes to their medication whilst under the care of a hospital specialist will have seen a difference in the way their medicines are managed and prescribed.

The Hospital Specialist will no longer give a new prescription during a patient’s consultation or following a hospital stay. Instead, a summary of any recommended changes to medication will be sent to the patient’s GP for them to consider and make the necessary changes to their regular prescription, ready for the next usual collection time.

The summary (pink copy) will also be made available to the patient so they can see exactly what has been recommended and will be a useful checklist for carers and for community pharmacies to help patients with the changes. Patients will be able to go straight home after their appointment without the extra wait for medicines that are not needed urgently. The change in the way medication is prescribed following a hospital consultation will enable a more timely and appropriate way of updating medication following specialist advice. It will allow GPs and

community pharmacists to make all of the necessary checks into ongoing and past medicines, for safety and better health, ensuring that the medicines that are to be stopped or doses changed are finished before starting the new medicines.

Gillian Honeywell, Chief Pharmacist at St. Mary’s Hospital, said: “The hospital pharmacy has traditionally been supplying all new or changed medicines straight after the consultation. This gives our patients no time to digest all of the information that they have been given by the consultant and the hospital pharmacist. With little or no written information to help them this can be confusing and sometimes worrying for them.

Gillian continued: “We will now make sure that medicines which need to stop being taken can be finished first. This will improve safety by removing the risk of taking the new and old medicines together and reduce waste. Also, some of the medicines dispensed by the hospital pharmacy look very different from those supplied by a community pharmacy, even though they contain exactly the same drug, which does concern many of our patients.” The previous system

relied on the information reaching the GP in time for the next prescription but this could not always be achieved if repeat prescriptions were nearly ready for collection. The new system removes the risks of continuing with old medicines at the same time as taking the new ones and gives patients time to ask their GP any questions they may have after their hospital consultation and before they collect their new prescription. Patients also now have the opportunity to discuss their new medicines with their community pharmacist.

Most changes to medication are not urgent and do not need to be made immediately. However, if the

change is urgent or medicines can only be supplied by the hospital, the hospital pharmacy will continue to dispense them immediately and make sure that the information reaches the GP within 24 hours.

Gillian added: “We want to hear from patients if the new system doesn’t work for them or if they prefer the new system. We are always looking for ways to improve how we help patients to get the most from their medicines and the hospital pharmacy will still be available to answer any questions about changes to medicines, not just about the ones that we dispense at St. Mary’s.”

6

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

MP invites Councillors to meet Education Minister MP Andrew Turner invited two County Councillors to accompany him to a meeting with the Education Minister, Lord Nash on Wednesday (8th May). The meeting had been arranged for some time to explore ways in which the Island’s MP could help the Department for Education support Island schools in need of additional help after going into special measures..

Mr Turner said “In my view the most important issue facing the Council is supporting the Island’s schools to improve. At the moment it is unclear what will happen on the Council, and who will be responsible for each policy area.

However, I am sure councillors will want to work together on this, so with Lord Nash’s agreement I have invited representatives from the Independent and the Conservative Groups to join us at the meeting. I am pleased they have both accepted.

There are many challenges facing our education system. We have three secondary schools judged as failing by OFSTED, another has been issued with a notice to improve and we are awaiting the outcome of another inspection.

Christ the King College is doing well but that means only a minority of Island children are receiving the high quality education they have a right to expect. In my view there has been too much energy expended on

changing the structure of the school system and an unhealthy obsession with new school buildings instead of a steely focus on what is going on in the classroom – which is what was desperately needed. Some of our schools are far too big and we need to find ways of dealing with that. On the bright side we potentially have two new secondary schools, a Studio school in East Cowes and a new Island Free School; there are also some pockets of very good practice, even in some of our very small primary schools.

There now needs to be a determination to get the basics right and I want to work constructively with the Council to do that. The recently departed Chief Executive, Steve Beynon was responsible for our education system since he arrived on the Island in 2007 and took charge of the re-organisation.

He has a great deal to answer for.”

SEABREEZE

FISH & CHIPS | CAFE | TAKEAWAY TELEPHONE 01983 280099 26 York Avenue, East Cowes

CONTACT THE IWMAIL: 01983 898 838 | 07413 599 446

Isle of Wight Detectives appeal for information following suspected arson in East Cowes Detectives are appealing for witnesses and information to a suspected arson at a building site on the Isle of Wight on Friday, May 3.

Between 6.00pm and 6.30pm it appears that a fire was deliberately set at David Wilson Homes site in East Cowes causing damage to a materials store and contents as well as fencing and a nearby motor vehicle.

Investigating officer, Det Con. Vicky Hayward said: “We are taking this matter very seriously as the fire was started close to residential property and local people were understandably concerned.

“Witnesses report seeing two youths seen near the security gates to the site at about 6.00pm.

“They are both described as between 13 and 14-years-old, of medium build. One was wearing dark jeans and a dark grey hoody and the other was wearing a plum brown coloured hoody with blue jeans.

“However, we are particularly

interested in trying to identify two youths seen on the site just after 6.00pm. One was wearing a blue hoody and the other a bright yellow t-shirt.

“We would urge them or members of the public who recognise the descriptions and saw anyone wearing similar clothing out in the East Cowes area around the time of the fire or acting suspiciously to come forward to speak to police.”

Anyone with information or footage of the fire can contact DC Vicky Hayward at Newport DCID by phoning 101.

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

7

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Bertie Has the Doubters Well and Truly Licked ‘Ice Cream’ for dogs? It will never catch on – was the feeling of some members of the Dragons Den. But Deborah Meaden had other ideas, & so too did Gary Hall who runs a Cowes-based ice-cream shop.

“It’s proving to be a useful addition to our product range,” said Gary at the High Street’s Plaza Ice Cream Parlour. To underline his point, Kristen Lloyd promptly arrived at the shop to introduce one of the three varieties to her ten month old West Highland Terrier, Bertie. He helpfully lost no time further confounding those doubters by eagerly lapping up the contents.

Despite the fact that a carton costs £2.50, Gary is hopeful that there will be enough takers during the coming hot weather.

When Marie Sawle made her presentation to the Dragons Den last October she explained that while her own dog liked ice cream she realised that milk was bad for his canine digestive system. So she produced an iced treat for dogs, with special emphasis on

health and nutrition. Her creation went on to be named ‘Dog Product of the Year’ at the UK’s largest pet show, and there are now more than 200 stockists who together have

Changes to blood donation sessions on the island planned for later this year NHS Blood and Transplant will be making some changes to when and where it collects blood on the Isle of Wight, and is encouraging all existing donors to continue giving blood.

The changes, which will be made in the autumn, are in response to NHS Blood and Transplant reviewing its collection plans so that it can still meet patient needs and the demand for blood from NHS hospitals, while also providing a good service to its loyal donors.

There will still be regular blood donation sessions on the island, so every donor that wants to give blood will still be able to do so.

Peter Taylor, regional operations manager for NHS Blood and Transplant said: “Blood donors on the Isle of Wight are very important to us.

Each and every one of them

saves and improves lives every time they come to donate.

“Like any organisation that receives money from the public purse, we have a responsibility to deliver our services as efficiently and effectively as possible so that more money is available to spend on frontline patient care. We work closely with hospitals so that we plan to collect only what patients need. By making some changes to our session timetables and where we hold our sessions we will be able to run a more efficient service, while still meeting the needs of patients.”

If you are 17 and over and in generally good health, and are interested in finding out more about giving blood on the Isle of Wight, visit www.blood.co.uk or call NHS Blood and Transplant on 0300 123 23 23.

STAY UP TO DATE ON THE GO

WWW.IWMAIL.CO.UK

sold over 30,000 tubs. Kristen had walked with young Bertie to the ice cream shop from Cowes Combined Clubs’ offices on The Parade, where she works for MSJ

Events. As Bertie often accompanies her to the office it’s quite likely there will be further ‘walkies’ up the town for those ohso-cool occasional treats.

8

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Bag A Bra Day gains ‘support’ from upcoming racing driver, Fergus Walkinshaw Fergus Walkinshaw, and the FW Motorsport team visited Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance at their Airbase at Thruxton on Friday 3rd May to launch this year’s Bag A Bra appeal, ahead of the weekend’s British Touring Car Championship event.

The racing driver was attending the circuit at Thruxton for the third round battles of the Michelin Ginetta GT Supercup, but took time out to help push the campaign to hopefully raise more funds towards the running costs of the Air Ambulance.

The HIOWAA charity stand was situated on the outside of the circuit throughout the weekend as well as clothing recycling bins which were located around the paddock, so people were able to drop off their unwanted items.

Fergus Walkinshaw, 22, said “As the Motorsport Advocate for the Association of Air Ambulances, I’m happy to be able to help Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance launch its Bag A Bra fundraising campaign during the BTCC weekend at Thruxton.”

The clothing collected from Thruxton and Bag A Bra Day will be recycled and processed by Bag It Up www.bagitup.org.uk, then sent to other countries for resale.

The recycling of bras is slightly different from other textiles, as most donated bras are shipped to West Africa for resale at affordable prices by street traders, where being able to wear a bra gives women status and helps to improve their self-esteem.

John Perry, Chief Executive of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance said ‘We really appreciate the ’support’ we have received from Fergus Walkinshaw to promote this campaign.

Having Walkinshaw involved in the promotion of Bag A Bra day, which is on Thursday 23rd May this year, has been ‘uplifting’ and

has really helped to boost awareness of the campaign and encourage female fans and women involved in the race weekend to donate their unwanted bras. We are trying to get as many groups of people involved as possible this year and to collect a record number of bras! This is a really worthwhile cause because your donations are not only helping the Air Ambulance, but also helping women in West Africa. We really appreciate all the donations we receive which help to keep your Air Ambulance flying and saving lives.’

If you would like a ‘Bag A Bra’ collecting bag, want to know where your nearest ‘Bag It Up’ recycling bank is situated, or just require further information about this appeal, then please visit www.hiow-airambulance.org.uk

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

9

Sainsbury’s Charity partner scheme back for its 5th year Local residents have the chance to find Sainsbury’s Cowes and Newport a new local charity to support. It’s the fifth year of the retailer’s ‘Local Charity partner’ initiative, which gives local registered charities the chance to receive a year’s worth of fundraising and awareness support from store colleagues.

Customers and colleagues at Sainsbury’s have played a big part in the success of the Local Charity partner initiative. Last year, their generous donations helped to raise over £1500 for BreathEasy and an additional £500 for Layla’s Trust. Among the highlights of the partnership, which closed in May, included quizzes, fancy dress days, bake sales and in store collections,.

Since the two stores situated in Foxes Road, Newport and High Street, West Cowes began supporting the initiative in 2009 they’ve raised over £11,000.

Over the last four years, Sainsbury’s stores and their customers have helped thousands of charities and organisations across the UK through fundraising and volunteering and have raised more than £5 million to support local communities.

There’s even more ways to vote this year. Alongside

Contact the Isle of Wight Mail Editorial / News Team press@iwmail.co.uk

01983 898 838 Sales & Advertising sales@iwmail.co.uk

07413 599 446

nomination forms and a drop-in box, available in-store from Wednesday 1st May, for the first time, customers can nominate online, either via downloading a voting form via Sainsbury’s website (sainsburys.co.uk/localcharity)

or emailing their nomination to Local.charity@sainsburys.co.uk Sainsburys West Cowes Store Manager Charlie Bird said: “Our work with previous Local Charity partners over the years has been really successful in letting our customers have their

say. We hope our customers can take the time to vote in the coming weeks and give a local charity that’s close to their hearts the chance for us to support them”.

The winning charity will be announced in June.

10

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Isle of Wight NHS 111 Urgent Care Hub praised for getting it right The Island’s integrated Urgent Care Hub which includes the Island’s NHS 111 service has been praised locally by the people who use the service following recent reports which criticised the NHS 111 Service on a national scale.

Chris Smith, Head of the Island’s Ambulance Service and NHS 111, said: “I would like to thank the public for their recent support and praise for the service provided here on the Island. Unlike many of our mainland colleagues, the Island’s Ambulance service has been in partnership with the GP Out Of Hours service for several years and has an excellent working relationship with GP’s on the Island. We are very proud to provide this service to the public and, since our go live date, we have dealt with over 47,000 calls here on the Island and received only four complaints associated to the NHS 111 service.”

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

The hub aims to provide care

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

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

The hub is a whole system approach, linking the hospital, ambulance, GPs in and out of hours, district nursing, 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 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 Island.

ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE FROM JUST £2 visit www.sales.iwmail.co.uk for details

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE AND YOU COULD WIN TICKETS

Win a pair of tickets to see ‘The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular show’ The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular will be performing on the Isle of Wight on Friday 12th July.

Tickets have now gone on sale at Medina Theatre

priced at £20.00. Seats for ‘The Rat Pack Vegas Spectacular show’ can be booked by calling 01983 527 020 or by visiting medinatheatre.co.uk

HOW TO WIN: Find the THREE changes we've made to the second picture at the top on this page and you could win a pair of tickets.

Email the correct answers to press@iwmail.co.uk along with your name and contact number. Closing Date: 20th June 2013

Find out more about the show at www.ratpack.biz

11

12

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Isle of Wight Ambulance Service provides life saving equipment in schools Primary and Secondary schools on the Island are being offered a vitally important life saving piece of equipment called an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) thanks to the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service and Isle of Wight NHS Trust, which is funding the project.

All Secondary schools on the Island have been offered an AED. Primary schools have been approached by the Isle of Wight Ambulance Service to ascertain whether they have a child or staff member with a serious pre existing medical condition, i.e. a cardiac condition.

Training will be provided by the Isle of Wight Ambulance Commercial Training team with follow on support and advice available as and when required.

Chris Smith, Head of the Island’s Ambulance Service, said, “As Head of the service I am extremely pleased to be embarking on the new venture with the schools on the Island where a defibrillator will be placed. Staff at the schools will be trained by our Commercial Training team in the use of the defibrillators and they can be used in the event of a cardiac arrest at the site.

The IOW Ambulance service are proud to serve the public on the Island and will work with all agencies to ensure we have trained staff and the right equipment in place in key areas to hopefully prevent some of the avoidable deaths that occur as Sudden Cardiac Arrest.”

First to take delivery of their defibrillators is Ryde Academy and Christ the King College. Dawn Cunnington, Ryde Academy Nurse, said: “We are very grateful to the Ambulance Service for providing our school with an Automated External Defibrillator. This is an excellent initiative as ultimately it may save a child’s life. I am really impressed with how easy it is to use.”

Receiving the defibrillator from the Commercial Training Team, Val Gard, Inclusion Manager, Christ the King College, said: “Following the sudden tragic deaths of young people highlighted in the national newspapers, and the great outcome for Fabric Muamba due to the immediate use of the defibrillator, we are extremely grateful to the IOW Ambulance Service for the defibrillator which has been presented to the College. To know that this vital piece of life saving

Dawn Cunnington - Ryde Academy, Students from Christ the King, Louise Walker -Commercial Training Officer -IW Ambulance Service, Tina Meteric - ‘FACT’ and Val Gard -Christ the King equipment is on site and can make a difference if used quickly after a collapse, is reassuring for our students, staff and parents.

Carisbrooke Primary School is also able to access the defibrillator if required, greatly improving the chance of survival.”

Implementation for the defibrillators in schools has also been supported by national charities and locally by Frans Adolescent Cardiac Trust (FACT) a charity set up by Tina Meteric following her daughters cardiac condition.

The IW Ambulance Service already have a number of supporting sites on the Island whereby AEDs have been provided such as leisure centres and theme parks and are looking to increased the number of Public Access Defibrillators (PADs). Any area that wishes to independently purchase an AED can contact the Ambulance Commercial Training Team for more information on 534111 or ambulancehqadmin@iow.nhs.uk ‘The scientific evidence to support early defibrillation is overwhelming; the delay from collapse to delivery of the first shock is the single most important determinant of survival.

If defibrillation is delivered promptly, survival rates as high as 75% have been reported. The chances of successful defibrillation decline at a rate of about 10% with each minute of delay.’

Stone tops stolen from Arreton Barns Craft Village

Police are appealing for information after thieves stole 10 staddle stone tops from Arreton Barns Craft Village on the Isle of Wight.

Between midnight on Saturday, May 4 and 1.00pm on Sunday, May 5, the suspects have entered the site and removed 12 tops off of the staddle stones situated between the Church and the Lifeboat museum.

Two of the tops were located nearby, but the remaining 10 are missing.

The tops are made from natural stone and weigh approx 40 lbs each. They are all round with a 2ft diameter.

It is though entry was gained through the footpath leading from St George’s church car park.

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

13

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Island Roads launches Apprenticeship Scheme

www.islandroads.com Island Roads has launched its 2013 Apprenticeship Scheme and is looking for four hardworking, enthusiastic individuals who enjoy working outside and thrive in team environments.

The Island Roads 2013 Apprenticeship Scheme has been designed to introduce young people from the Isle of Wight to the working world and develop them into highly skilled operatives working on the Island’s road network.

Apprentices will be supported to obtain nationally recognised NVQ Level 2 qualifications in

Highways Maintenance (Construction) and Highways Maintenance (Excavation Operations). The scheme runs for two years and will be a combination of classroom based delivery and on site experience, with a permanent job on achievement. The scheme will include regular residential elements based at specialist colleges either in Exeter or York so a willingness to travel is essential. Paul Herbert, Island Roads Service Director, said: “We are thrilled to announce this apprenticeship scheme at this

Hampshire Constabulary launches smartphone hate crime reporting app There's a new app for your smartphone that can help tackle hate crimes on the Isle of Wight.

The 'Helping Victims of Hate Crime' app has been developed for Hampshire Constabulary and will be officially launched on Tuesday, May 14, in conjunction with Hampshire Cricket Community Trust who will be hosting the event at the Ageas Bowl.

The app brings together information about hate crimes and hate incidents and encourages people to report them.

It was developed from the design for a booklet previously created for the Hampshire Police Authority and piloted in the Western Area of the constabulary.

PC Ahmed Sasso, who is based in Southampton, developed the idea in force. He said: "The communities we serve across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight are diverse and the app is another tool to help us connect with them.

The idea is to provide information in one handy place about hate crimes including how to report

them, how to stay safe and what support is available for victims.

"These are crimes and incidents where the victim is targeted because of who they are, for example, because of the colour of their skin, their sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, religion or ethnicity.

"We treat all reports of a hate crime or hate incident very seriously. They're cowardly and unacceptable crimes which can affect not only the victim but also their family, friends and, in certain cases, a whole section of a community.

"If you or someone you know has been assaulted, threatened, intimidated because of who you are, you can report it directly to the police or through the True Vision website or the anonymous Crimestoppers charity.

"The main advice is don't suffer in silence and don't let them get away with it. It could be that whoever's done this is targeting people more vulnerable than you and may not understand how hurtful their behaviour is."

early stage in the project as it will provide guaranteed employment opportunities for young people on the Island and our graduate programme will provide further opportunities for young people who want to develop their skills and capabilities.”

Island Roads officially took on the responsibility for the Island’s highways on the 1 April 2013 and will deliver a range of services to improve the Island’s infrastructure over the next 25 years. These include resurfacing and improving the 500 miles of roads and 470 miles of footways; replacing over

12,000 street lights with brighter, more environmentally friendly LED lights; upgrading litter bins and deploying new, state-of-theart street cleaning equipment.

Training schemes for apprentices and graduates will be run by Island Roads every year throughout the first seven years of the contract and aim to ensure a skilled engineering workforce is created for well into the future.

Email careers@ringway.co.uk for an application pack.

The closing date for applications is Friday 25 May 2013.

Sewer renovation works started in Newport Plans for a sewerage improvement scheme in Newport are under way.

Southern Water is planning to replace 150 metres of old sewer pipe and increase the diameter of a further 25 metres of pipe in Field Place, Newport as part of the company’s wastewater renovation programme which will aim to ensure the sewer system network continues to work effectively.

A section of the road will be closed from Caesars Road to Mall Court to allow teams to carry out the work. Access will not be affected.

Southern Water is working closely with Isle of Wight County Council Highways to ensure that traffic disruption is minimised.

Health and safety is a priority so careful management of the traffic will be in place at all times and a signed diversion route will be in place.

Southern Water’s Project Manager Tim Olliffe said: “We’re delighted to be starting this essential scheme. Our priority is

Google Map

to complete the scheme with as little disruption to the community as possible.”

Southern Water would like to thank all those local businesses and residents who may be affected by the temporary road closure for their collaboration and patience.

The work which will be carried out by Southern Water’s contractor Clancy Docwra, is scheduled to commence on May 7, 2013 and will take approximately 3 months to complete.

14

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

“Replay with Rob Da Bank” stage returns to Bestival With ten fields of wonderment filled with amazing music, insane sideshows and magical happenings, Bestival’s spectacular 10th birthday bash this September 5th-8th will have something for just about everyone.

And if you’re hankering for the freshest music on site then you’re in luck as we’re delighted to announce that the ‘Replay with Rob da Bank’ stage will be returning again this year!

Rob da Bank says, “Last year we really went to town on the ‘Replay with Rob da Bank’ stage – some amazing bands making it one of the most popular stages we’ve ever had, with insane performances from the likes of Alt-J tearing the place apart. This year’s no different – we’ve gone full steam ahead and booked one of the best line-ups of exciting and fresh music that you’re likely to see all year long, with The 1975, Swim Deep, Merchandise and Jagwar Ma already announced and amongst many I ‘d recommend. Make sure you don’t miss out on this one, it’s gonna be big.”

One of the biggest draws on site when it made its inaugural appearance last year, huge crowds were treated to acts such as Kate Nash, Alt_J, Skepta, and Jake Bugg in 2012.

Now situated in its very own unique big top tent, the ‘Replay

with Rob da Bank’ stage will play host to a litany of newlyannounced acts, including sublime stream of consciousness action from Ghostpoet, Disclosure collaborator Sam Smith, hotly tipped Scottish singer-songwriter Nina Nesbitt, super sharp beatniks Ruen Brothers, hook-heavy Nottingham quintet Dog is Dead, folk-rockers To Kill A King, anthemic duo Man Without Country, melancholy mix maestros Feeling Gloomy and

sassy chanteuse Chloe Howl.

Plus there will be appearances from the previously announced Champs, Jagwar Ma, Lewis Watson and Molotov Jukebox, with many more acts still to be added to the stage – watch this space for more news.

If you can’t wait until September for a taster of what Replay has to offer, then the Road Trip To Bestival is for you! You can catch a selection of artists from the Replay line-up pre-Bestival at two exclusive in-store

performances. Replay’s Road Trip To Bestival will kick-off in London at Replay Store Carnaby Street in August.

For more information about the Road Trip to Bestival please visit: www.replay.it Remember; the Friday night headliner announcement soon come! Till then head to www.Bestival.net and our Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr for all the latest action. And don’t forget to tag your tweets #hmsbestival.

15

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

International Training Technique Brings Relief for Back Pain Sufferers A revolutionary new approach which aims to significantly improve the management of back problems and self help for patients suffering with back pain is being supported by the Isle of Wight NHS Trust. In a bid to enhance services and bring relief to back pain sufferers on the Island, the Isle of Wight NHS Trust is training all of its musculoskeletal physiotherapy (Msk) workforce in the McKenzie Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT) method to ensure consistent delivery of spinal care – the only Trust in the UK to do this.

Back pain is extremely common and can be frightening and debilitating. It will affect more than 50% of us at some point in our lives. 90% of this pain is easily curable or manageable, without recourse to surgery or serious medication. Apart from a sufferer’s pain and anxiety, the economic cost of lost working days and extensive drugs use is significant.

The McKenzie method is an internationally recognised approach to back pain that is effective in the management of the majority of spinal problems. It focuses on self management and preventative care, specific for each individual patient, and is a proven and successful approach to spinal pain management as well as problems with joints, muscles and ligaments of the whole body.

The McKenzie (MDT) educational programme was proposed by Leeane Walsh, Physiotherapy Musculoskeletal Service Lead and Clinical Specialist, and her colleagues in the physiotherapy service at the Isle of Wight NHS Trust as a way of unifying all Island back pain services offered by healthcare professionals and helping patients with co-ordinated expert care, reducing conflicting information given by different healthcare professionals, even within the same profession.

The initiative has been enthusiastically received by all.

One GP who has elected to do the full programme and has already found it very beneficial is Dr Peter Randall who said, “I must commend lead physiotherapist, Leeane Walsh for her foresight and strategic vision in enabling all musculoskeletal physiotherapists on the Island to train together and

adopt a consistent approach using a single evidence based philosophy, the McKenzie technique, for the management of the pervasive problem of back pain. This will facilitate a logical approach to the early diagnosis and resolution of short and intermediate term back pain episodes.”

“More importantly some of the dramatic results I have seen have avoided more potent drugs, intrusive injections and spinal surgery. As a GP I have learnt to use it as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool. I now realise that there is no such thing as a standard exercise leaflet for all back pain sufferers and the training has reinforced the need for a tailored exercise regime for the patient with hands on demonstrations of the technique.

Surprisingly this can be easily integrated into the GP consultation with some very rewarding results.”

Leanne Walsh, Physiotherapy Musculoskeletal Service Lead and Clinical Specialist at St. Mary’s Hospital said, “I am delighted with the support from commissioning, management, GPs and staff. The McKenzie approach will benefit Isle of Wight patients with early and intermediate stage spinal concerns. Our intention is to prevent chronic problems developing in the future. This united approach to spinal training is part of my vision to provide the best care for Isle of Wight patients” A study day attended by 21 local GPs took place on 24 April to explain the principles of the assessment and treatment options.

Most GP practices have already signed up at least one GP. Medina Healthcare GP Practice has signed up half of their available GPs in order to share their co-ordinated knowledge.

Lighthouse Educational Foundation has approved supportive funding for the Island’s GPs to encourage GP participation for the benefit of the Island residents.

Ideally, by training all musculoskeletal therapy providers in this co-ordinated way, all Island patients will receive a consistent approach to care. Island GP’s, Physiotherapists, Chiropractors and Osteopaths have all been invited to the McKenzie MDT educational programme at St. Mary’s Hospital. After the

programme of courses, taught by Senior International Faculty McKenzie Lecturer, Jennifer Ross, there is a credentialed exam that participants can elect to undertake which will certify a high standard of care in the McKenzie MDT approach. Those who qualify from the exam can opt to go on both a National and International Register of credentialed therapists. Leeane Walsh, Physiotherapist Musculoskeletal Service Lead and Clinical Specialist at St. Mary’s Hospital is one of only four Credentialed McKenzie Therapists on the Island. This is brilliant news for patients and service providers. The long term benefits are of genuine patient satisfaction, self management, reduced repeat visits to the GP with the same problem, reduced use of prescribed medication, prompt onward referral when

necessary and ultimately reduced incidence and recurrence of back problems. The Isle of Wight NHS McKenzie MDT education programme is a series of 4 courses provided by the McKenzie Institute UK. The programme will be completed over a 2 year period, between 2012 and 2014.

The first courses, Part A and B, were completed in the spring and the autumn last year. A similar schedule is planned for 2013.

The McKenzie educational programme undertaken by the Isle of Wight NHS Trust’s Msk Physiotherapists, is supported by the Isle of Wight Community Care Commissioners, Isle of Wight NHS Trust and the McKenzie Institute (UK).

The Government has designated the management of Musculoskeletal Spinal pain as one of its key health issues to address.

Isle of Wight Mail is mobile friendly

visit: www.iwmail.co.uk

Listen online at wightislandradio.com

ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE! PRICES START FROM JUST £2 email sales@iwmail.co.uk or visit www.iwmail.co.uk/advertising

16

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

17

18

THE ISLAND ISLE OF WIGHT EVENTS EVENT FLYERS

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

19

SEND YOUR FLYERS TO PRESS@IWMAIL.CO.UK

20

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

WIN A £10 MOBILE PHONE VOUCHER Find all the words below to reveal the hidden pub. Text the answer to 07413 599 446 for a chance to win!

CHEQUERS INN CRAB INN EIGHT BELLS FALCON FLANAGANS GEORGE INN HARVEYS HOGSHEAD JOE DAFLOS KASBAH KING LUD MARINE MILL BAY REDLION SCRUFFY JACKS SLOOP INN SNOOTY FOX THE RAILWAY THE RAMBLERS THE SUN THE VINE WATERSIDE WAVERLY

Injury to Yachtsman Leads to Cowes Lifeboat Call-Out

Cowes RNLI lifeboat raced to the aid of a man who badly injured his right hand aboard a yacht in Osborne Bay on Tuesday (7th May) The man, one of four men on the 35 foot Westerly, Quartette, caught his hand between the windlass and the anchor chain while in the process of raising the anchor.

When the lifeboat, helmed by Scott Armiger, arrived on the scene two crew members, James

Chillman and Patrick Moreton, transferred to the yacht and administered First Aid. They remained on board while the remaining yacht crew steered their boat to Trinity Landing, Cowes, from where the injured man was eventually taken by ambulance to St Mary’s Hospital, Newport.

The lifeboat was launched at 3.10 pm and returned to station 40 minutes later. The Quartette had sailed to Osborne Bay from Gosport.

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Island Independents to form a wholly-independent council

Credit: Allan James Marsh

In a historic move, Island Independents have signalled their intention to form the first whollyindependent council since 1973, following their victory in last week’s local elections. The group comprises twenty Independent Councillors who have all signed up to the Bell Principles of Independent Political Conduct.

Island Independents will now embark on the programme of reform set out in their Framework for Change. This will result in constitutional changes that will result in a return to more transparent, accountable and democratic governance for the Island.

There will also be a comprehensive review of all services, as promised by the group in the lead up to the election. The aim will be to ensure that the Council is fulfilling its statutory obligations in all areas and to uncover and expose any possible weaknesses in its service to the public, which can then be addressed.

The leadership and the cabinet as well as the traditional roles of chairman and vice-chairman will be determined at the Council’s annual general meeting on 15 May. The group hopes to move towards filling some of these positions with more than one

person to reduce overburdening individuals. It is envisaged that allowances too will be shared. It is felt that this will help to reduce the risk of autocratic decisionmaking and bring more experience and knowledge to bear on these challenging roles.

The number of delegated decisions is expected to fall radically under the new administration, as it moves away from the Cabinet style of government towards a more open and inclusive Committee based system.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Councillor Ian Stephens said, “This heralds the start of a new era in the life of the Isle of Wight Council. We now have the opportunity to make a real difference to lives of Islanders, businesses and visitors.

“We hope to set in place a new era of leadership and collaborative decision-making that takes a more inclusive, transparent approach and one that listens and responds to the needs of the Island community.

“Our hope is to maintain our ethos of people before politics and to work with the many hardworking staff at the Isle of Wight Council to deliver and improve the services that are so vital to our residents.”

Red Funnel Timetable Changes Red Funnel has announced a revised timetable for its Southampton - East Cowes route from Sat 11th to Thurs 16th May. This is for the replacement of a Voith propeller unit on Red Osprey. From Southampton: Sat, Mon & Thurs: 04:15, 05:45, 07:15, 09:00, 10:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00, 18:00, 19:15, 20:45, 22:15 & 23:45 - Sun 05:45, 07:15, 09:00, 10:00, 12:00, 13:00, 15:00, 16:00, 18:00, 19:15, 20:45, 22:15 & 23:45

From East Cowes: Sat, Mon & Thurs: 01:15, 05:45, 07:15, 08:35, 10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 16:30, 17:30, 19:25, 20:45, 22:15 & 23:45 Sun: 01:15, 07:15, 08:35, 10:30, 11:30, 13:30, 14:30, 16:30, 17:30, 19:25, 20:45, 22:15 & 23:45. The full summer timetable will resume on the Southampton-East Cowes route on Friday 17 May 2013. Red Funnel’s Red Jet Hi-Speed service between Southampton and West Cowes is completely unaffected.

21

22

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Isle of Wight Tax Credit claimants told to renew early The Isle of Wight’s 10,800 Tax Credit customers are being reminded by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) that they must renew claims by 31 July – or their payments might stop.

HMRC has started sending Tax Credit renewal packs to about 5.8 million people from late April until the end of June.

They are urged to act as soon as they receive a renewal pack.

More than 3.7 million claimants renewed by the deadline last year, 90 per cent of those who were required to renew their claim.

HMRC is also asking claimants to check the accuracy of the information in the pack, and may have to query some of it with employers.

Claimants must tell HMRC about

any changes to their circumstances that they haven’t already reported, such as changes to working hours, childcare costs or pay. If asked, they must also provide details of the previous year’s income.

The amount a claimant’s income can change before HMRC must be told – the income disregard – was reduced this April to £5,000.

Having the right documents available will help reduce mistakes when they are filling out the form or calling HMRC’s Tax Credits helpline. These documents would be, for example, payslips, end of year P60 forms and childcare payment details.

HMRC’s Director of Benefits and Credits, Nick Lodge, said: “Our message to people in

Police appealing for witnesses after crash near Ryde

Police are appealing for witnesses after crash near Ryde on the Isle of Wight.

The incident occurred at Kite Hill on Thursday, April 25 at around 11.39am when the 89year-old driver of a Mercedes E200, which was travelling along the A3054 towards Newport, crossed the carriageway and collided with a Peugeot Expert taxi travelling in the opposite direction The elderly gentleman was taken by ambulance to St Mary’s Hospital, but sadly passed away in the early hours of Friday morning.

A 92-year-old woman who was a passenger in the Mercedes suffered minor injuries was also taken to hospital. A 45-year-old man who was the driver of the taxi also sustained minor injuries and was treated by paramedics at the scene.

Officers from Isle of Wight Road Policing Unit are appealing for anyone who witnessed the crash to get in touch.

Anyone with information can contact Shanklin Police Station by phoning 101. Information can be given anonymously by phoning the independent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight is renew early, renew accurately and renew on time.

“They should aim to renew their Tax Credits as soon as they receive a pack, and must check that their details are correct.

“If claimants don’t renew claims

before 31 July, their payments might stop.” Universal Credit, which will take over all Tax Credit claims by 2017, will be introduced this year. It is therefore important that claimants ensure that the data held by HMRC about their claim is accurate.

Police investigate fatal collision in Wroxall Police are investigating the circumstances which led to a single vehicle collision in Wroxall on the Isle of Wight (Wednesday, May 1) in which a 71-year-old man died.

At 5.54pm, local officers were called to the scene after a silver coloured Nissan Qashqai collided with a wall outside of the Four Seasons Hotel on Clarence Road.

Paramedics gave emergency treatment to the driver at the scene, before transferring him to

St Mary’s Hospital, where he was sadly pronounced dead about an hour later.

Witnesses have been spoken to and inquiries are continuing to determine the circumstances leading to the collision.

No other vehicles were involved and noone else was injured. A file is being prepared for the coroner.

The deceased man is believed to be local to the area. His next-ofkin have been informed.

STAY UP TO DATE ON YOUR MOBILE

VISIT OUR WEBSITE WWW.IWMAIL.CO.UK www.fb.com/isleofwightmail / www.twitter.com/iwmail

23

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

.

24

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Former Convalescent Home can be Brought back into Use The Bill giving English Heritage freedom to bring back into use the parts of Osborne House formerly used as a convalescent home finally passed through Parliament last week. The Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Bill received Royal Assent (the point at which it becomes law) on Thursday afternoon. The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner welcomed the news.

Mr Turner said: “Seeing those historic buildings standing empty and not able to be used at all was very sad. I am grateful to English Heritage for taking so much care over the consultation process and they have given me an undertaking that they will keep the local community involved when discussing future plans. If any Islanders have ideas about

the future uses of the buildings they can send them to me and I will pass them on to English Heritage.

“The Bill was first introduced in May 2012; it took almost a year before it was finally passed.

Although the provisions relating to Osborne House were quite straightforward, much of this Bill was quite controversial and there were numerous committee meetings in both the Commons and the Lords to discuss the details. Agreement was reached between the two Houses in the nick of time – if that had not happened then the whole Bill would have been dropped in advance of the Queen’s Speech next Wednesday.”

Rob Flower, English Heritage’s General Manager at Osborne, said: “This is very good news

and we would like to thank Andrew Turner for all his help in steering the bill through Parliament. We will now look at the best way of bringing this important part of the Island’s

heritage back into use and back to life. We have already asked Islanders what they would like to see happen to these historic buildings and we will continue to seek their views.”

25,000 mile journey, through some of the most dangerous countries

Michael Smith (pictured) and his cousin Andrew Tomlin are undertaking a 25,000 mile journey, through some of the most dangerous countries and over the most unforgiving roads in the world on their Yamaha Tenere motorbikes.

They are raising money for the Isle of Wight based charity ‘Roll out the Barrel’ who provide clean water facilities for women and children in developing countries.

The motorbikes are departing Southampton 21st May, with the actual journey starting on June 3rd from Halifax, Nova Scotia, heading over to Vancouver, left into the United States, travelling down to Mexico City, across central America to Panama, over the canal into Columbia then through Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Argentina and Chile to the most

southern mainland point, Tierra del Fuego, by the end of November.

Roll out the Barrel are inviting motorbike enthusiasts to volunteer as part of the UK Support Monitoring team, based in the Isle of Wight.

‘This is the chance to be involved in something really exciting’ said project manager Dennis Jones. ‘We are not aware that this has been attempted previously and we are working hard to make this an unqualified success’ he added. ‘Enthusiastic volunteers will help us achieve this.’

Michael & Andrew will receive the inaugural Tierra del Fuego Cup, as well as raising in excess of £25,000 for the charity.

For more information, please contact Den via dennis@rotb.co.uk

ADVERTISE FROM £2.00 sales@iwmail.co.uk www.sales.iwmail.co.uk

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

25

Isle of Wight Bestival goes cruising

Ever wanted to make a music There’s always been a flamboyant air around Bestival. With a cheeky touch of chi-chi style and a knowingly arched brow, we’ve played host, over the years, to some of the most outrageous turns around, from the finest alternative cabaret to some deliciously debauched club action. So, with our spectacular 10th birthday fast approaching (from September 5th-8th), we’ve lined up the biggest and the very best array of ostentatious entertainment you’re ever likely to see, as Bestival goes cruising!

‘Bestival is ten years old this year and I’d like to think that over the last decade of dancing at our beautiful festival we’ve been one of the most open-minded festivals in the world – welcoming all… It sure feels like that at 3am on a Saturday morning! This year we’ve teamed up with some of the UK’s most dazzling trailblazers to bring some outrageous and uninhibited parties to the lower decks of HMS Bestival. Stand by for a cast of freaky girls and hot sailor boys stoking the fires as we steam towards the dawn… See you at the bar, boys!’ – Rob da Bank “My brief was to help get the gays to the Island and this year Bestival will be flying the (rainbow) flag with pride. I’m really excited to be bringing four productions to Bestival this year, including the debut of ‘Drag’ – with local drag performers, my solo show ‘The Worst of Scottee’ and for the second year running my variety show ‘Camp’ (not to forget the infamous ‘Room Service)” – Scottee That’s right – Room Service, London and New York’s hottest gay party, is coming to our brand new venue The Port to hit you hard and deep with a festival premiere that’s exclusive to Bestival 2013! There will be a soundtrack of killer underground house beats and aural stimulation from Go-Go Boys, plus some obligatory tranny madness thrown in for good measure, bringing Soho and the Meatpacking District to the Isle of Wight.

Room Service takes you DOWNtown and keeps you UP all night with DJ’s Jodie Harsh, Kris Di Angelis and Severino. This is a deluxe gay dance party and a downright naughty secret. You want to know why this night is so deliciously infamous? Come and find out at the Port on Friday…

“I can’t wait to get to Bestival, and we’re shipping the whole Room Service troupe from Soho to the Isle of Wight. Prepare for hot boys, go-go dancer action and crazy tranny madness set to a soundtrack of underground house.

That’s my kind of party!” – Jodie Harsh Also celebrating a joyous tenth anniversary, we’re very pleased indeed to welcome back the fabulous Horse Meat Disco. A disco behemoth beyond compare, it’s the queer party for everyone where they’ll be slipping a sensuous selection of Italo-disco, house, oddities and punk/funk onto the soundsystem for your delectation. Inspired by the music and inclusive ethos of New York’s heady club scene in the 80s & 90s, the collective has garnered a unique reputation for throwing amazing parties with unmatchable sets. The quartet of DJs each mixes their own individual interpretations of the disco sound with a soundtrack that marries their expertise and shared knowledge and experience in the field. Expect all manner of dancefloor movers.

But that’s not all: after last year’s spectacular debut, Bestival’s glorious adventure-land The Grand Palace of Entertainment is back! So leave your inhibitions at the door and crank up the fun factor… On the outside, it’s a beautifully decorated traditional fairground facade. On the inside, it’s a rainbow coloured pleasureseeking, twisted, hot-house of fun.

In the daytime, masters of entertainment Massive in China will be presenting an eclectic and

intriguing selection of comedy, cabaret, games, foot-stomping music, plus a generous sprinkling of other oddities and spectacles.

The evenings will be a raucous and colourful ride… So hold onto your glitter wigs! First up, the eminent Scottee is returning with a special edition of his naff variety show Camp, featuring turns from East London super-tranny, Jonny Woo. In a very special Bestival exclusive, Scottee has also dragged together some of the UK’s most established names in female impersonation for an evening of sequins, hairspray and mouthing the words to Cher in Drag: A Cruise Ship Special.

The irreverent kings of alternative karaoke, Hot Breath, will be bringing 10,000 songs for you to destroy, plus those who are brave enough can step up to the Cardioke challenge – karaoke on a cross-trainer.

Or you could try your hand at the Totally Exciting Championship of Household Games Tournament – a competition bound only by a person’s willingness to attach 50 clothes pegs to their face.

The Social Club Cabaret will hit the Grand Palace in the face like a happy, bright and beautiful wet kipper, in true variety style, featuring acrobatic ballroom dancers and knife throwing housewives.

Or if you think you can do better, then sign up for the Talent Show of the year and bring your special talents to the stage – stick your toe up your nose or burp the alphabet. With prizes and fireworks, it goes without saying, the sillier the better!

Three times runner-up to be in the running for the Eurovision Song Contest star Trevi Fontayne is a dream come true – just make a wish and he’ll sing you a song, from ‘I kissed a guy and I liked it’ to ‘Nuns just want to have fun’.

Or if that isn’t enough sing-along nostalgia for you, then join Gino and his beautiful gameshow hostesses, The Velines, in 80s Italian extravaganza, Gino’s Italopop Disco.

Then hang around to dabble in some late-night debauchery with Bestival party monsters Sink the Pink, taking the Grand Palace into the wee hours. These adorable show-offs are the most energetic, addictive, colourful troupe of tranny divas this side of East London, with poptastic guilty pleasures party DJ sets and eyepopping shows all night. And for the last set on Sunday night, party with infamous rebel DJs Gutterslut, for a non-stop playground for freaks & geeks, transvestites, gays, straights, whoever, whatever: you’re in!

And not forgetting the delicious icing on the cake: the Grand Palace will be dressed from head to toe in outlandishly bonkers decor, presented by creative genius Alex Noble, artist, designer and dress-maker to Lady Gaga.

It’s going to be a colourful ride, friends. See you in wonderland!

Don’t forget they still have the Friday night headliner to announce, so keep checking www.Bestival.net and our Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr for all the latest action. And don’t forget to tag your tweets #hmsbestival.

26

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

law changes turning tides on growing compensation culture Major law changes are turning the tide on the growing compensation culture which has forced up insurance premiums and left schools, groups and authorities fearful of staging events and activities, Justice Secretary Chris Grayling said.

In the latest stage of a series of reforms, the fees lawyers can make from processing basic, uncontested claims for compensation for minor injuries suffered in road accidents will be reduced by more than half – from £1,200 to £500.

The change will make no difference to the amount of compensation victims will receive for genuine claims but will reduce the unnecessary additional bills faced by insurers and enable them to pass on savings to their customers.

It is part of a package of reforms which have taken effect in recent weeks to tackle the high cost of premiums which have affected not just drivers but also school, groups and authorities trying to insure themselves so they can stage events and activities. They also include: * no win, no fee law suits transformed so lawyers will no longer be able to double their fees if they win, at the expense of defendants and their insurers. * the banning of “referral fees” paid between lawyers, insurers, claims firms, garages and others

for profitable claims.

Recommend a friend deals will also be banned. * claims firms banned from offering upfront cash incentives or other gifts to people who bring claims to them.

Justice Secretary Chris Grayling said: “We are turning the tide on the compensation culture. It’s pushing up the cost of insurance, and making it more expensive to drive a car or organise an event.

It’s time the whole system was rebalanced.”

These changes will not be the end of the Government’s work to tackle the growth of compensation culture.

From Wednesday 31 July 2013 the Claims Portal, used by lawyers and insurers to settle payouts for road accidents quickly and simply, will be extended to also include claims for accidents at work and in public places. It will also start handling claims up to the value of £25,000 (the current maximum is £10,000).

Action is also being taken to crack down on the number of whiplash claims – the Ministry of Justice has consulted on proposals including setting up independent medical panels to improve injury assessment and increasing the small claims court limit so more questionable claims can be challenged in court by insurers.

Detectives investigating a burglary in Ryde Detectives investigating a burglary in Ryde are appealing for information after a handbag was stolen from a home whilst the owner was outside gardening.

The incident occurred at an address in Church Road, Binstead on Tuesday, April 30 between the hours of midday and 7.30pm. The front door to the property was shut, but not locked.

The victim, a 67-year-old woman only noticed her handbag missing when she entered her lounge later that evening. It contained £300 in cash, some debit cards and some items of sentimental value.

Detectives investigating a burglary in Ryde are appealing for information after a handbag was stolen from a home whilst the owner was outside gardening.

The incident occurred at an address in Church Road, Binstead on Tuesday, April 30 between the hours of midday and 7.30pm. The front door to the property was shut, but not locked.

The victim, a 67-year-old woman only noticed her handbag missing when she entered her lounge later that evening. It contained £300 in cash, some debit cards and some items of sentimental value.

£2,000 in cash and jewellery stolen during a burglary

Police are appealing for information after approx £2,000 in cash and jewellery were amongst items stolen during a burglary in Sandown on the Isle of Wight.

The incident occurred at around 11.20pm on Tuesday, April 30 at an address in Newport Road, Sandown.

Offenders have forced entry in through the garage doors then entered an office and stolen 48 sovereigns, various items of jewellery including a Hunter watch and at least £2000 in cash.

The victim, a 73 year-old-man, disturbed the suspects and followed them to a nearby airfield, but lost them in the grounds.

The first suspect is described as a white male, aged 15 – 16 years old, Slim build, 5ft 7ins and Wearing a dark blue or grey top with the hoody up and dark coloured trousers The 2nd Suspect is described as a white male, aged 15 – 16 years old, dark hair, Slim build and Wearing a royal blue and white horizontal striped top which had a grey hood and dark trousers.

He had a light coloured scarf covering his face Anyone with information can contact DC Rhian Fairweather at Newport DCID by phoning 101.

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

27

The Isle of Wight Mail | Friday 10th May 2013

Friends Buy Ultra Sound Probe for Emergency Department The emergency department of St Mary’s Hospital can now make use of a new hand-held ultra sound probe, thanks to a £4.293 donation by the hospital’s Friends.

“We are very grateful for this additional equipment,” said the department’s consultant, Dr Maria Lynch. “We are a trauma unit now, and this probe is very important in trauma care. Without it in the resuscitation room there would be a delay in accurate diagnosis.”

Among the probe can be used to detect free fluid in the abdomen or whether there are lacerations in the spleen or liver.

Photo: Dr Lynch with Accident and Emergency matron Linda Fishburn and a Friends’ volunteer, Philippe Clark.

Cleaning public toilets as part of court order

Two young people who caused hundreds of pounds of damage to the public toilets at Seaclose Park will be cleaning them as part of their court order.

The two appeared at Newport (Isle of Wight) Magistrates Court earlier this year and were referred to the Isle of Wight Youth Offending Team for nine months.

As part of this, an agreement has been reached that they will be working with council cleaning contractors to see the amount of work that goes into ensuring public conveniences remain open for use.

Amongst the damage caused to the toilets in October 2012 was a cistern pulled off the wall, tiles smashed, fires lit in the hand washing units and the disabled toilet broken into.

The damage cost the council nearly £750 to repair, and this cost has now been awarded to the local authority in compensation as part of the pair’s sentence.

John Metcalfe, Isle of Wight Council deputy director for economy and environment said; “Any form of vandalism impacts on the local community. It is pleasing that this pair will be cleaning the very toilets they damaged as part of their court order so they can see first hand the efforts that go into ensuring facilities like these remain clean and open for the public.

“I hope this sends a message that mindless acts of vandalism will not be tolerated.”

Due to legal reasons, the names and identities of the two young people cannot be revealed.

New project to support mental health wellbeing A new walking group is to launch in June to tackle issues such as loneliness and social isolation on the Island.

It’s being set up by the local charity Way Forward. “Physical exercise and spending time outdoors have been shown to improve mood and mental health” explains programme lead Lee White.

“But even more importantly the new group will give people the opportunity to make new friends and offer encouragement to get involved in community activities.”

The circular walks will run every Sunday morning starting at 11am.

The first one takes place on 9th June starting at the main car park in Yarmouth and will go along the old railway line to Freshwater.

Each walk will also include a stop at a tea rooms or café.

The group is open to anyone over the age of 18 who is looking for help to cope with a mental health condition such as depression or an anxiety disorder, as well as those with learning disabilities. The group is free but participants will have to pay for their own refreshments.

“We can provide transport if getting around the Island is difficult for some, but places are limited” says Lee White. To book a place on the walks, contact the Way Forward office on 01983 823000.

The initiative is being funded by the NHS and Isle of Wight council as part of the Mental Health prospectus..

More information on other activities provided through the Way Forward programme can be found on wayforwardprogramme.co.uk

Isle of Wight Sports