Style of Wight May June DIGITAL LOCKDOWN EDITION

T H E I S L E O F W I G H T ’ S I N S P I R AT I O N A L L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E I S S U E 6 4 M AY / J U N E 2 0 2 0

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Brook

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Ventnor

Cowes Office: (01983) 200880

hello@spencewillard.co.uk hello@spencewillard.co.uk Associated with

Cover Chad Powell Photography www.chadpowellphotography.com

Editor Christian Warren editor@styleofwight.co.uk Editorial Assistant Hannah Wilson office@styleofwight.co.uk Sub Editor Helen Hopper Features Roz Whistance, Jo Macaulay features@styleofwight.co.uk Contributors Tracy Curtis, Bryony Rust, Dale Howarth, Emma Elobeid, Jo Richardson Design Laura Craven Photography Christian Warren, Tom Pratt, Holly Jolliffe, Timi Eross Sales Christian Warren sales@styleofwight.co.uk Distribution Steve Read 07894 738246

Note from the Editor I do hope this digital edition of your magazine finds you and your families well and safe.

Since its creation some ten years ago, Style of Wight Magazine has championed life on the Isle of Wight and worked to establish itself in a responsible and caring position within the Isle of Wight Media community. In these uncertain times it now feels more vitally important than ever that we work together to keep Island businesses active and the wheels of commerce turning, using all the creativity and innovation we can muster to adapt to what, for a while at least, is our “new normal”.

This current edition is no different and inside you will find some great ways to support the Island in a true Style of Wight inspirational manner. You will also notice in this digital edition we have added some live links form images direct to where you can buy items. There is even more news and updates on our new look website - with a more story driven layout of content - plus our archive materials and previous editions to browse through.

Who could ever imagine in our lifetime we would see such circumstances. Business has shown me how amazing the Island community is in supporting each other and collaborating even more.

Personally I have found a new rhythm to my life and whilst I’m under no disillusion the essence is survival we too have been afforded an opportunity to reflect, learn, breathe and look at the world in new light.

“I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”

From Lord of The Rings ‘The Fellowship Of The Ring’

by J.R.R. Tolkien

Christian Warren

Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of Style of Wight Magazine, but legal responsibility cannot be accepted for errors, omissions or misleading statements.

Winners at the IW Chamber Awards 2016

Get in touch 8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1EJ 01983 861007 www.styleofwight.co.uk May and June 2020

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Contents

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Issue 64: May and June 2020

Regulars 6

Fashion

People with style: Skate Style.

We get to know local legend John Cattle

8 Style picks: A variety of seasonal

picks available from Island retailers 10

Charity and community: Wight Aid – Six Island trusts and foundations working together

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Interview: Kyle Eastwood – Son of Hollywood movie legend Clint Eastwood

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Rusty rambles: Bryony and Tom take us on another outdoor adventure

Features 39 Hope: Inspirational home activities

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Health and Beauty

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Make your date night sparkle: A gift for that special someone.

82

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SS20: From Visual Impact – Men’s and Ladies collections

83 How to stay fit at home during lockdown 86

Art

Look after your immune system: With Caroline Hurley

Self Care by Cosmedica: With Kieron Cooney

22

Craft notebook: Beeswax wraps with Bryony Rust

Home

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Photography competition: See the winners of last edition’s ‘Hope’ theme — and find out how you can get involved too

92

Love for lockers: With Bayliss & Booth

28

Doorstep portraits: Inspiring portraiture work by Stephanie Mackrill

97

Through the keyhole – Just another new adventure

34

Original art: Low Budget art hack to inspire and liven up your walls

Food 62

Food for thought: With seasonal food guru – Jo Richardson

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Dining out while staying in: We take a look at some of our favourite venues offering delivery and pick-up services

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Simple recipes: Easy to follow recipes to mix up your midweek.

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Isle of Wight asparagus: Think summer… think asparagus!

80

Mermaid spring cocktails: Recipes to create at home.

100 Scandi inspiration:

With Long Lane Flooring 107 Seasonal gardening: Think the

way your garden things

Business 109 Could this be a great time to

start your own business: With

Dale Howarth 111 Desperate times shouldn’t mean

desperate measures: With

Ben Rouse

May and June 2020

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From the Style A rch ives - Issue 58

People with style

SKATE STYLE Local legend John Cattle found his own path through skateboarding and now inspires others, young and old, to enjoy the sport he loves

By Tra cy Cu r tis Pictu re Ti m i Eross

Veteran skateboarder John Cattle’s company Wight Trash just celebrated fifteen years in business, and his inspirational Skate Club welcomes around 300 Islanders each week. Last year John received a Sports Foundation award for ‘Outstanding Achievement’ as a coach, and his latest mission is to rebuild Ventnor skatepark. This local skating legend has rolled right into the heart of the Island community and is spreading his skateboarding love to all.

John’s passion for skateboarding was ignited after watching Back to the Future, aged 13. He began skating Newport’s prison estate roads on cheap boards with plastic wheels and watched the latest skate videos before spending hours trying new tricks with friends. He said, “When I started breaking things it wasn’t fun, but the pleasure outweighed the pain and I enjoyed it more than everything else. I was very focussed, which is unlike me, and got really excited to learn new tricks. You always want that feeling of rolling away from a trick, knowing that you made it - that was the best.”

John was bored by school, and hated his first job at an electrical trade wholesaler but built a skatepark in the warehouse next door. After leaving that employment, he promised himself that he wouldn’t work for anyone else again, and aged 20 he featured in R.A.D magazine, which led to his first sponsorship deal. “I’d got my head around skateboarding and was able to do things on my board that I was pleased with. I wasn’t really a competition skater but was good at niche tricks. Because Island skate spots weren’t great, you had to get creative.”

John’s pro skateboarding career continued to rise until he suffered a painful knee injury which really affected his skating. When the sponsorship continued, John admits, “We’d go on tour and party hard, but I felt like a fifth wheel, and it wasn’t a good time for me mentally.”

Then, with a Prince’s Trust loan, he established Wight Trash in 2004, creating merchandise, shooting videos, forming a skate team, inviting his favourite professional skaters to produce guest boards and eventually opening the shop in Ryde. Eight years ago, he taught his son to skate, and was asked to give lessons to his son’s friends, followed by schools and youth centres. When friends and family helped to restore a derelict space at St Mark’s Church Hall, Wootton in exchange for free skating there, the skate club was born.

John still gets a huge buzz from coming up with new tricks, which these days isn’t easy, and he really loves to teach. “Everyone can skate. I’ve taught thousands of people, from 70-year olds to kids with additional needs. Teaching means I can share that feeling I get when I make a trick with other kids and adults. The skills they learn here they can take anywhere in the world, and some will be skateboarding for ever.”

John gains respect from his pupils with his enthusiasm, patience and nurturing manner. Recently, at a skate club surrounded by teenagers, he realised he’d essentially created a youth club. “It’s a social environment, away from the X-box, where kids can bounce off and push each other.

Skateboarding builds confidence. It’s not a team sport and you don’t have to be the fastest or the best; you’re just challenging yourself. It makes it all worthwhile when you can affect someone’s life positively through skating.”

Style is? I guess it’s being comfortable with yourself, just finding your own path.

Money equals success? Maybe it does, but success isn’t always happiness, which is a better thing.

What does Island living mean to you? It’s good and bad. On sunny days it’s the best and it’s a lovely, safe place to bring up kids, which I didn’t understand until I had mine, but it can be restrictive.

Sometimes you can’t escape when you need to.

Icons or Inspirations? Bill Hicks. He was an honest guy, giving people information while questioning authority, unfairness and corruption. And skateboarders who find their own path and are not necessarily doing what’s expected. People can do a set of 20 stairs which is crazy, but it doesn’t make me want to skate, creativity does.

Blunders and what you learned?

Blunders have probably been not always looking after myself, and I’ve learnt that life can be tough.

No one gives you a booklet that tells you how crushing it can be, but it can be beautiful as well, and you have to take the rough with the smooth.

Top tips? Believe in yourself. You can definitely do anything you put your mind to. Also surround yourself with good people who are better at doing the things that you’re bad at.

Facing the future? We’ve just become a not for profit Community Interest Company, so we can now apply for grants to improve our equipment, and eventually we’ll look for bigger premises.

May and June 2020

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Add an element of fun to your hallway and ensure no muddy shoes make their way onto the carpet with this Triple Star Coir Doormat . Available to order in medium or large via baylissandbooth.co.uk

Style picks

We simply love these patio-perfect Oval Planters from Bayliss & Booth.

These pottery pleasures with a stylish crackle-glaze finish can be ordered online at baylissandbooth.co.uk. See page 106 for more inspiration.

We’ve carefully selected a variety of seasonal picks available from some of your favourite independent Island retailers

A lovely PART TWO dotty printed top, paired with a midi length relaxed fit jersey skirt and teamed with a pair of coral UGG sliders. All available to order online from visualimpact.co.uk See page 19 for more inspiration from Visual Impact, Newport.

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Give your DIY project a soft, warm green look with Annie Sloan ‘Lem Lem’ Chalk Paint. This pastel is great for creating a retro 50s look, and works well as part of a vintage floral style. Take a look at page 96 to see Dig For Vintage’s transformation of a dining room chair.

Annie Sloan Chalk Paint available to order at digforvintage.co.uk

Heliocare 360 | Endocare Callpro Don’t forget to apply moisturiser and high factor SPF sun protection, especially when taking your daily walk, jog or cycle ride. Cosmedica Clinics, Ryde are offering free home delivery on their complete facial skin care range of medical and prescription strength creams.

To place an order email enquiries@cosmedicaclinics.co.uk or telephone 01983 566680 and ask to speak to Vicky.

When tensions are running high and serenity is in short supply, the natural essential oils in ESPA’s Reed Diffusers create a deeply relaxing aroma that settles the atmosphere and slows busy minds and bodies, for a greater sense of peace.

This hand-poured natural soy wax candle from ESPA is infused with their unique blend of oils, which harness the potency of aromatherapy oils to restore tranquility, ease the mind and de-stress the body.

Available in 4 different scents and delivered to your door – to order follow this link to ESPA’s online shop espaskincare.com

ChilliWinter Charity Rainbow Candles A donation from every purchase of these colourful Island-made candles goes directly to Mountbatten to support its hospice pledge. Available to be gift wrapped and posted across the UK - order online at chilliwinter.co.uk/shop and see page 42 for further details.

May and June 2020

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STYLE | Community

STRONGER TOGETHER FOR THE ISLAND It’s in times of crisis that we realise just how strong our communities are and here on the Isle of Wight we are proud to say that Islanders have risen to the challenges presented

by COVID-19 and rallied round to look after one another.

W

e are seeing acts of kindness large and small, people volunteering their time to help others, community hubs springing into action and organisations of all types pulling together to provide support to those who need it.

Working together is key and this was what inspired WightAid founder Geoff Underwood to bring together six of the Island’s leading foundations to provide co-ordinated support to the many charities and groups involved in the frontline response to the coronavirus outbreak here on the Island.

“WightAid recognised that some of the Island’s larger foundations shared a common vision and it made complete sense for us to work together so that our donations could be shared around to those undertaking critical work in a fair and even manner,” said Geoff.

Michele Newton of Four Seasons Cookery Academy, preparing meals for delivery/collection

“I can’t think of another time in history when the Island’s charitable foundations have worked together like this and I’d like to thank those involved, along with the many businesses and hundreds of people who have risen to the challenge and donated in these hard times.”

The Isle of Wight Foodbank

The six Island trusts and foundations now working together are The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation; The Daisie Rich Trust; The IW Sports Foundation; The Isle of Wight Foundation (Island Roads); The High Sheriff’s Trust; and WightAid. Each month the newly formed charity partnership is allocating grants to help

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Dave Waldock of West Wight Men in Sheds, delivering meals. Meals are available hot or chilled. They can be ordered on their helpline 01983 752168.

Community | STYLE

‘WightAid recognised that some of the Island’s larger foundations shared a common vision and it made complete sense for us to work together’ groups working to support people in the following key areas – food poverty, social isolation and mental health, and bereavement. So far, these are just a few of the organisations to receive vital funding: IOW Foodbank, Age UK IW, West Wight Community Hub, Pan Together, Wight DASH, IW Carers, People Matter, Pop-up Soup Kitchen, Suicide Prevention and Intervention Isle of Wight and IW Youth Trust.

A welcome boost to the appeal has also come from organisers of the Isle of Wight Festival, who are donating all proceeds from their special edition 2020 IW Festival t-shirt to WightAid to distribute to the groups supporting the Coronavirus crisis on the Island.

Sadly, the festival isn’t taking place this year but that doesn’t mean you can’t buy the t-shirt! Festival fans will have spotted endorsements from Kaiser Chiefs frontman Ricky Wilson,

Charity number 1166476 www.wightaid.org

Ronan Keating and his wife Storm and festival regulars Abbey Clancy and Peter Crouch, who have been seen proudly wearing their shirts on social media.

Festival organiser Caroline Giddings said: “The Isle of Wight Festival is proud to support WightAid and the wonderful work they do in raising much needed funds for the vulnerable within the community. We hope that people will buy a t-shirt to help this charity initiative and we look forward to seeing everyone again in 2021!”

Abbey Clancy and Peter Crouch – Credit: @abbeyclancyofficial Instagram

The special edition 2020 Isle of Wight Festival t-shirt can be purchased online at www.isleofwightfestival. com/shop Anyone wanting to make a donation to support the Island’s charity COVID-19 response should go to www.wightaid.org/donate

Ronan Keating - Credit: @rokeating Instagram

May and June 2020

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STYLE | Interview

Kyle Eastwood loves music 12

styleofwight.co.uk

Interview | STYLE

From the Style A rch ives - Issue 28

Kyle Eastwood, son of Hollywood movie legend Clint Eastwood, has forged his own path in music with his globally influenced jazz style. A respected jazz bass player, composer and band leader, Kyle chatted with Tracy Curtis in the run up to his much anticipated performance at the Isle of Arts Festival in Ventnor at the start of May, about his life, influences, film and how jazz was always in his blood.

K

yle Eastwood’s Californian drawl is as strong as his passion for music; “Of course Jazz is my first love, but I’m not a jazz snob in any way. I listen to a lot of different types of music; jazz, old rock and roll, classical, some pop; I love any kind of music as long as it’s good.”

With six albums under his belt and a range of film score credits, Kyle’s

path into music was hardly surprising considering his musical background.

Born in 1968, there was always music around his house. “As far back as I can remember I was listening to Jazz.

My parents are big music fans, jazz in particular and they both play so it was a very musical household. I always seemed to gravitate towards stuff that was a little before my time like Johnny Cash, Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder

and James Brown. The Monterey Jazz Festival was held 15 minutes away from where I grew up and my family went every year. I remember meeting Count Basie, Sarah Vaughn, lots of people that I knew from the records my parents were playing. It wasn’t until I got a little bit older that I’d realise how influential they’d be to me.”

Kyle started learning the piano when he was 7, and at 12 he had to play a May and June 2020

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STYLE | Interview

‘I remember meeting Count Basie, Sarah Vaughn, lots of people that I knew from the records my parents were playing. It wasn’t until I got a little bit older that I’d realise how influential they’d be to me.’ few chords on the guitar for a role he had in Honkytonk Man with his father.

“That was my first experience with the stringed guitar, and I carried it on, teaching myself from what I knew from music theory and the piano.”

A few years later he moved to the electric bass. “A lot of my friends in high school were musicians. There were always drummers and guitar players but never any bass players, so I think that’s why I picked that and started playing. I’d sit and figure out bass parts myself from old Motown records.”

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Playing for fun and not yet knowing that music would become his career, Kyle enrolled at the University of Southern California on a filmmaking course. “I was interested in trying to become a director, but at the same time I was getting more serious about learning, practising and playing music.

I spent so many hours on my own in my room listening to records and transcribing things. I guess the music won over at that point so I left college and began playing with different people in the clubs around LA. I started my first jazz quartet in 1992.”

In 1998 Kyle released his first jazz

album, and has since toured the world. “I enjoy touring; it does get tiring sometimes especially if you’re travelling through lots of airports, but I really love playing and that comes with the territory. When I played Monterey, my hometown and the first place I ever saw live music, that was quite an exciting feeling.”

Kyle still loves film, and keeps his hand in mainly through music, composing film scores. Nominated for a Golden Globe for Gran Torino, he’s worked on nine of his father’s movies, the last being the upcoming Jersey Boys. Kyle explains, “When you write for yourself

Interview | STYLE

you have as much freedom as you want, but film music is different. You obviously have to write something that fits with what’s already on screen, so there’s a lot to consider. You can’t step on the dialogue; things need to fall in certain places and on certain cuts. There’s a lot more sitting at the computer, trial and error and shifting things around. I work closely with my father on his films. Sometimes he writes with me, or he’ll come up with a melodic idea and play it out on the piano, then I’ll record and rework it a little bit. Other times he lets me get on with it and tells me to go to town, but when I finish something he always wants to hear it. Writing for film is definitely a challenge, it’s a totally different approach to writing jazz, but I really enjoy doing both.”

Kyle now lives in Paris, relishing the change of pace and opportunity to

play with different musicians from different places. “I think there’s definitely a great appreciation for music here, and a lot of different kinds of music generally. Being exposed to new music from other cultures and meeting new musicians is always inspiring to me when I’m writing.”

With a short break from touring, he’s now working on the next album. “I’ve been busy. I haven’t slept in my own bed since last October and I don’t take many days off completely from music. I’m now getting some ideas together for the next album, but I need to actually get busy and start writing. Sometimes I come up with something quickly that sort of writes itself, or I’ll have an idea, put it away and come back to it later. Sometimes a deadline’s all you need to get a piece finished.”

Although Kyle lived for over a year in London, and has toured all over the UK, when we met he admitted that playing the Isle of Arts Festival was to be his first visit here. “I know of it of course, from the legendary concerts held here back in the day and more recently as well. I’ve heard it’s very beautiful and I’m looking forward to it.”

If you missed his energetic performance of traditional jazz, infused with everything from funk to African beats, investigate Kyle Eastwood’s music yourself by visiting www.kyleeastwood.com - you won’t be disappointed.

May and June 2020

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STYLE | Fashion

Make your date night

S PA R K L E If you’re looking for that special gift for that special someone, or maybe you just want to liven up your date night – we have found some beautiful jewellery and it’s all available to purchase online from local retailers for Island deliveries

Left 3 Stone Pendant: Chic Freshwater pearls and cubic zirconia set in sterling silver £75 Opposite top Blossom Buttercup Pendant: Freshwater Pearls set on Sterling Silver £60 Blossom Buttercup Adjustable Ring: Freshwater Pearls set on Sterling Silver £50

Isle of Wight Pearl - Classics A savvy choice for everyday pearls.

Lightweight enough to wear comfortably all day, the delicate designs let you play with your look and define your style.

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Opposite bottom

Click images to shop

Duo Bangle: Freshwater pearl on rose gold plated sterling silver £115 Duo Studs: Freshwater pearl on rose gold sterling silver £100

Fashion | STYLE

Isle of Wight Pearl - Blossom Inspired by the delicate beauty of a flower garden. Pearls nestle in petals, reflecting the vibrancy and delicacy of nature.

Isle of Wight Pearl - Reef Luminous freshwater pearls float in sculptural shapes for this fashionforward collection.

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Find ready-made jeweller y from Serendipity Diamonds Each design is currently available with free delivery to your door in approximately 2 days. Browse a selection of ready-made designs and order online.

Enjoy 20% off any order placed for a very limited time until the showroom re-opens. Just use the code ‘2020’ when placing your order online.

Click images to shop

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Fashion | STYLE

SS20 from Visua l Impact Men’s and Ladies Col lections

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STYLE | Fashion

Steve’s wearing a Fred Perry Vertical Stripe Polo Shirt with a pair of LEVIS® 511™ Slim Fit Jeans in a classic dark wash and a pair of Navy Barbour Deck Shoes.

During these uncertain times the team at Visua l Impact sti l l wanted to g ive you that fami liarity of being able to shop w ith your Visua l Impact fami ly.

They’ve created a N EW selection on their website where they have handpicked selections from their favourite brands such as French Connection, Part T wo, Barbour, Tamaris, Ted Ba ker plus many more.

They a lso have lots from their N EW brands this season in Ladies Visua l Impact featuring GA NT and Barbour Footwear.

So what a re they wea r i ng du r i ng lockdow n?

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Kay’s outfit choice is this lovely polka dot vest top from Part Two, paired with this jersey skirt and teamed with a pair of coral UGG slides.

Fashion | STYLE

Becca’s outfit choice is this yellow button-up blouse with drawstring and dropped shoulder, teamed with a pair of Levi’s ribcage jeans and these super comfortable Barbour boat shoes.

Sue’s outfit choice is a Gant Lemonade Cotton Silk Shirt, a pair of navy chino shorts and her favourite tamaris sandals.

Need a ny help or i nspi ration?

T hen contact the tea m of ded icated styl ists by ema i l at off ice. v isua l i mpact @g ma i l.com

Click to shop

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Art | STYLE

Craft Notebook From the Style A rch ives - Issue 58

Beeswax wraps

By Bryony Rust Photos Tom Pratt

This being the eco issue, we thought we’d try out a trend that’s been growing in popularity ever since we saw that poor turtle having a straw removed from his nose. We know we need to cut back on our plastic, but it’s not a simple switch. Plastic is everywhere around us in every modern convenience. A lot of these conveniences are hard to quit, but with beeswax wraps a legitimate alternative, cling film is something we should be able to shift away from.

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There’s a growing number of places where you can buy beeswax wraps, and they work a charm for leftovers or lunchboxes. If you fancy a DIY challenge, they’re a quick and simple project.

It’s simply a case of coating some cotton fabric in beeswax. The only tricky bit is getting the right amount of wax on your fabric.

Cosmetic grade yellow beeswax beads

Too much and your wrap will be stiff as a board, too little and it won’t keep your food fresh.

Cut out your own stencils, keep to simple shapes.

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Art | STYLE

Too much and your wrap will be stiff as a board, too little and it won’t keep your food fresh.

There may well be a clever formula for doing so, but we took the trial and error approach (as fabric scraps are in abundance in our home).

Keep food fresh and plastic at bay by making beeswax wraps

Step by step:

Scatter your fabric with the sunshine yellow beeswax beads

Eco-conscious and beautiful too

tton tightly woven co • Choose some fabric n ears to trim dow • Use pink ing sh er choice (not bigg to a size of your be ll u’ yo t shee than the ba king xt) ne on em laying th king tray w ith • Cover your ba r parchment pape on parchment • Lay the fabric le liberal ly w ith paper and sprink beeswax beads on its lowest • Put in the oven sit unti l the wax setting and baby can the fabric (this has melted into a is d an minutes ta ke around 20 a) pp cu t r a quie perfect excuse fo to ic out and line up • Ta ke the fabr cool off et voila!

If you’re looking for some plasticfree homeware options and don’t fancy making your own, do check out the Gift to Nature shop in Newport. They sell a variety of earth-friendly home supplies, including metal straws guaranteed to never end up in the nose of a turtle.

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STYLE | Art

Photography competition

HOPE

The winner: Giv ing a Ha nd of Hope, by Daw n Fid ler

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Art | STYLE

The winner’s photograph is not on ly featured in this edition of Style of Wight Magazine, but wi l l be displayed on the wa l ls of the prestigious Quay A r ts Ga l ler y, in New port and the winner wi l l receive a 20”x16” mounted print from Ava i lable Light Ga l ler y a nd Gi f ts — the Island’s main stock ist for Avai lable Light Photography, by Steve Gascoigne.

Second place: Unnamed, by Patrick White

To be one of our next photography competition winners, simply interpret the theme however you wish and send it in to us at office@styleofwight.co.uk, along with your full name, contact telephone number and a name for your image.

Images must be 300dpi and larger than 2MB in file size. Entries should be submitted by Thursday 18th June.

For full competition details see our website www.styleofwight.co.uk Judging Panel Gary Wallis Esteemed Portrait Photographer Ian Whitmore Visual Arts Project Manager, Quay Arts Christian Warren Editor, Style of Wight Magazine Laura Craven Graphic Designer, Style of Wight Magazine Hannah Wilson Editorial Assistant, Style of Wight Magazine Third place: The best view comes after the hardest climb, by Anonymous

Next edition’s theme: Just Add Water

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The Hunters. So lovely to see these guys, their beautiful girls and doggies.

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This family is amazing. They have four children including a set of young twins. Mum and dad are both key workers. John is a doctor @mountbatten_iw. I’m so happy I was invited to catch them on their doorstep while they had some time together.

Doorstep P O RT R A I T S

One of the Island’s well-established commercial photographers Stephanie Mackrill has gone back to her roots with some revealing and inspiring portraiture work “Since the lockdown I instinctively reverted back to my roots in photography. There was never a light bulb moment when I thought ‘I know, I’ll do this’ - I just kept taking pictures.

“I began with where I started when I was younger: landscape photography. I then moved through to documentary press imagery to where I am at now, shooting doorstep portraits.

Although I enjoyed rediscovering my creative beginnings, I simply can’t help doing what I love; taking pictures of people.

“Initially, I was nervous about the doorstep portrait concept as I was worried how it would be viewed. However, after capturing a few friends on doorsteps, it soon became clear this exercise was good for all of us.”

Stephanie’s journalistic instinct has enabled her to quickly become comfortable with this new way of capturing images and she feels a deeper sense of ‘duty’ to document history, coupled with a fascinating relationship – albeit socially distant – with her subjects, which has revealed some real surprises.

“One of my favourite shots is the ‘grounded circus’. A performer, Thorne, who was determined to work from home. It’s fantastic how people adapt and carry on. Taking shots like this is a great way of combining my press instincts and experience with my passion for lifestyle portraiture.”

You can see more of her work and this series on Stephanie’s social media pages and website.

info@stephaniemackrill.com stephaniemackrill.com t. 01983 298765 m. 07970 258579

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Caught this just before the rain today! Another lockdown birthday. I’ve met two little birthday boys today.

A fab day! Great to see you!

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This lot were brilliant... The kids were still in their PJs at 2.45pm. I love it! They’ve moved in both Grandmas at the beginning of the pandemic so they were not alone.

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The Grandcourt family.

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Dot and Vern with Claude the 16-year old Whippet. One of my best friends who lives on the mainland asked me to pass by her Mum and Dad’s to get this one. I’m so happy to oblige. Now she can see them looking well.

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O R I G I N A L A RT C R E AT E D AT H O M E

By Laurel and Grey Interiors

This low budget art hack will inspire some original artwork and liven up any wall. Fun and relaxing, just follow these simple steps to create something unique for your home

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Art | STYLE

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ave a consideration where you might hang your artwork and order yourself some large, low budget frames - there are plenty online, these shown are from Ikea (60x90cm).

You can use any paper you can get your hands on; we have used the reverse of some old wall paper - even the paper inserts that come with the frame will work.

Grab a couple of different brush sizes – ideally a large and medium size - and any paint will work. We used some interior wall paint from a sample.

Let your hand and mind run free - this can be quite therapeutic - don’t worry about being messy, it doesn’t always work if you think too much. Maybe try simple geometric shapes to start or just go wild.

Send any snaps to our instagram pages - we’d love to see your work.

Owner of Laurel and Grey, Lauren is 21 years old, living on the Isle of Wight and is currently studying interior architecture and design at Arts University Bournemouth.

Simple yet effective – bold brush strokes and not too much concentration are the key to creating this striking wall art.

Owner Lauren

‘My main inspirations for my interior work come from minimalist styles including Scandinavian, coastal and country home styles. I like to make use of muted and minimal colours to create a clean and stylish space.’

“My main inspirations for my interior work come from minimalist styles including Scandinavian, coastal and country home styles. I like to make use of muted and minimal colours to create a clean and stylish space.

“There are so many endless creative things you can do from scratch around the home and I have been able to get really creative recently, especially during lockdown. I have some amazing creative projects that I personally feel would be easy for anyone to give a go at home with only a few materials!”

Lauren has more inspiring ideas which you can find on her Instagram page and online blog.

Instagram: @laurelandgreyinteriors Blog: laurelandgrey.co.uk May and June 2020

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Promenading An exhibition by photographer Julian Winslow

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his series seems quite apt for the current rhythms of life, slowing down and taking more notice of our surroundings and those intimate details we often overlook.

Julian himselfs divulges "These images come from part of an exhibition which has been running at Ventnor Arts Club since July 2019 called “Promenading”.

“All the images in the exhibition are

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from various sea fronts on the Island.

“The selection here is from my home town of Ventnor. All were taken with the camera on outside tables at cafes and bars while I was drinking coffee.”

“I like to think they reflect the beautiful oddness that is Ventnor."

You can view more of Julian’s work and this particular story on Instagram @julian_winslow julianwinslow.com

Art | STYLE

‘I like to think they reflect the beautiful oddness that is Ventnor‘

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IMAGINE THE ISLAND W I T H O U T Q U AY A RT S …

Quay Arts came to the hard decision on Wednesday 18th March to close its doors due to COVID-19. Since then, a few of the Quay Arts team have been working from home, trying to provide and deliver the arts to your homes.

What have Quay Arts been up to in lockdown?

Quay Arts are committed to bringing you the very best in arts and creative opportunities on the Island, and since lock down began, they have been striving to keep this alive by making the arts accessible to everyone online.

Quay Arts have introduced a new blog called Quay@Home, sharing content such as HOMEART activities for children (or adults!) to do, showing current and past exhibitions online, throwback stories about the Quay, plus much more content to keep the IOW community smiling. Each week Quay Arts will be updating the blog as much as possible, providing new content to keep their customers in touch with the Quay.

Did you know Quay Arts is a charity?

Did you know that Quay Arts is a not for profit charity? All of the revenue is generated through the craft shop, cafe, live events and art workshops.

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And every penny made is reinvested back into Quay Arts creative programmes, to support and enrich the cultural life on the Island.

So as you can imagine, COVID-19 has already had a massive impact on the Quay, and without the doors open, they will struggle to keep afloat.

Not only will the Quay be affected by being shut to the public, but COVID-19 has also resulted in big Island events being cancelled, which they heavily rely on. Such as the Isle of Wight Festival, where Kashmir Café takes place. Kashmir Café is run by a passionate team of Island volunteers each year at IOW Festival and all profits go to Quay Arts. Not only that, but events such as Beer & Buses, IOW Jazz Weekend, are all big events that the centre depends on throughout the year.

How can you support the Quay?

Quay Arts is a charity that can only exist with the active and generous

support of people like you. They want to carry on providing as much as possible online, and with that said, they need your support in doing so.

Quay Arts have launched an online gift voucher which can be purchased now and redeemed in the future when we resume normal activity. Or you can make single donations via the Facebook page or website. Together, we can continue to support the cultural life of our Island community through this difficult time and in the future.

Photo: Chad Powell Photography

In the hardest of times, it is hope that holds our hand and helps us through. Hope for a future where we continue to draw on the inspirational strength of our Island community. We will meet again to share the stories, songs, sports, art and culture that make that Island unique and special. Until then, here are some beacons of hope from Island organisations and individuals that are helping, protecting or simply finding ways to bring Island happiness to us in our own homes...

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STYLE | Hope

Home schooling get crafty!

We may be physically restricted, but our minds can get creative. Here are some easy ideas that are fun for all ages to try

#DrawWithRob Rob Biddulph is a bestselling and multi award-winning author/illustrator. He is also the official World Book Day Illustrator for 2019 and 2020.

When the coronavirus pandemic quarantine period began, Rob realised that lots of people were going to find themselves at home with their children for several weeks/months looking for things to do. So he decided to post a drawalong video every Tuesday and Thursday at 10am that parents could watch with their children and, hopefully, make some nice pictures.

You can find the draw-along videos at robbiddulph.com.

We’d love to see your results, so please send your pictures to office@styleofwight.co.uk.

Happy Drawing!

Get Crafty Entertain the kids and yourself at the same time with these crafty ideas. Don’t worry about the end results as most of the fun is in the making.

You will need: Cardboard box Scissors Colour Pens or Paint Sticky Tape Ideas to follow: Fashion your box to give a good large area and some supporting side panels, you can cut pieces and stick tape to the foot for extra stability at the end if needed.

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Ella W with her happ ilson (5) y snappy allig ator

Draw some spooky monsters, making sure they have extralarge mouths to aim at – you could do animals too if feeling adventurous.

Paint the monsters with some bright and vivid colours, add any extra embellishments like eyes and teeth from odds and ends.

Cut the mouth – adults are best at this – place a tea towel under the cardboard and carefully pierce a hole to allow you to start cutting the line of the mouth.

Keep the pieces from the mouth – these can be cut up to make your throwing objects.

Hope | STYLE

‘Life at Tapnell Farm’ covers a range of topics and resources will also be available to download from the website tapnellfarmpark.com Footage will include:

Life on

Tapnell Farm Family favourite farm launches new online resource to help with home schooling

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ith the Farm Park currently closed and children away from school, isolating at home, the team at Tapnell Farm have created a new online resource – Life on Tapnell Farm – a fun and educational series of videos, photos and worksheets that can be used by families to keep their children entertained and assist with home schooling, over the coming weeks.

Activity for ‘Life on the Farm’ is be posted daily at 10am on social media (Facebook & Instagram) – and started with the first ‘Animal Investigations’ video accompanied by downloadable worksheets, suitable for KS1 and up.

These can also be adapted by parents to use as they wish.

Tom Honeyman-Brown, owner of Tapnell Farm Park said: “We’re really missing our visitors! It feels strange not having them in the Farm Park! We know how much they love our animals and will miss not coming to the farm park to see them. We also appreciate that parents can probably do with a bit of help in entertaining the children at home over coming weeks. That’s why we’ve introduced these daily doses of fun and educational content online, supported by downloadable resources; it’s our way of doing what we can to help families during these challenging times.”

Tapnell Farm Park Animal Investigations: every Monday and Thursday. Join Terry Antular as we take a closer look at our animals at Tapnell Farm Park!

Keeper Chats and other fun video clips and photos: every Tuesday and Saturday. Find out what our keepers get up to on the farm, and how they care for the animals.

Tapnell Farm Park Safari: every Wednesday. Join Terry Antular on a virtual safari around the Farm Park. Meet the Animals and learn some fun facts.

Fun Fact Friday: a photo of one of our animals and fun facts about them.

Story Time Sunday (6pm) Chill out and watch a little video of one of our animals whilst we read you a short story.

The weekly schedule of activity for ‘Life at Tapnell Farm’ can be found at: tapnellfarmpark.com.

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STYLE | Hope

Light a candle campaign Island business ChilliWinter is supporting Mountbatten Isle of Wight by asking its community to purchase its handmade charity Rainbow Candles and light them in honour of those affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

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athy Chillistone and Dave Winter, who together run ChilliWinter from Cowes, have raised over £700 of their £2000 target, in just ten days. With every sale, at a notfor-profit price, a direct donation is made to Mountbatten, Isle of Wight.

Kathy and Dave are encouraging people to follow up the weekly “clap for carers” by taking a more reflective moment and lighting a candle.

They say: “Every Thursday evening, we salute our key worker heroes who are working selflessly around the clock across the nation.

Communities far and wide are coming outside and spending a couple of minutes to clap, cheer - and even sing - to show their support and keep one another’s spirits up.”

“Each week, once we say farewell to our neighbours and turn back indoors, let’s light a rainbow candle to remember all those whose lives have been lost, let’s remember those who are in hospital fighting for their lives, and let’s together show our support and hope for each hero’s unabated efforts to feed, protect and serve our nation.”

Each candle is hand-made in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. Three different variations of their handmade rainbow candles are available and can be giftwrapped and posted across the UK. To find out more about the charity Rainbow Candle range, and buy online, go to www.chilliwinter.co.uk/ shop and follow ChilliWinter on social media for their latest news.

Twitter: ChilliWinterIOW Instagram: chilliwinteriow Facebook: @ChilliWinter Mobile: 07912 946 574

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ChilliWinter’s rainbow candles aim to spread light and hope in support of Mountbatten.

Stephanie Mackrill Photography

Hope | STYLE

Origami hearts

By Bryony Rust Photos Tom Pratt

In the original days of origami, paper was a rare luxury and this folding into shapes was a sacred ritual. Now paper is all around us, origami is a little easier to practise and there’s no excuse not to have a go. I’d love to be one of those people who can rustle up a miraculous tiny crane from a till receipt, but so far, no luck.

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Origami may have roots in Zen, but it’s hard to feel calm when grappling with all those tiny folds. They require an accuracy and precision that just isn’t my crafting style. But this, right here, is a super simple project that even I can wrap my head around. Just a few quick folds and, before you know it, you have a little heart to slip into a pocket, a notebook or an envelope.

Even at a simple level, there’s plenty of appeal to an origami project: nothing but paper and your hands, forming new shapes from flat squares and neat creases. I’m sure with a little patience I could muster up an origami crane. And perhaps that’s the point. It’s more about mindset than materials. If we had more moments for quiet focus, just imagine the things we could create!

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’Even at a simple level, there’s plenty of appeal to an origami project: nothing but paper and your hands, forming new shapes from flat squares and neat creases.’

Hope | STYLE

We used square origami paper, but any paper cut into a square will serve you well. Follow the picture steps below, or check out the simple video tutorial with this link: http://bit.ly/SoWheart ep Follow these st

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s:

rfect square 1: Start w ith a pe agonal 2: Fold on the di al opposite diagon 3: Repeat on the re er into the cent 4: Fold one corn ss ro ac er rn co site 5: Fold the oppo the centre hand side up 6: Fold the right e left hand side 7: Repeat w ith th

d fold the points 8: Turn over an dow n

points inward to 9: Fold the side igami heart create your or

If we had more moments for quiet focus, just imagine the things we could create!

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STYLE | Hope

Rocking all over the Island Most people happen upon the (quite literally) ‘hidden’ world of pebble painting entirely by accident: in an alcove on the way to the dentist; nestled in between the slats on a park bench; perched atop a stile, groyne, or seawall; or underfoot on an otherwise ordinary morning walk. Whether it’s a ladybird, love heart, or lettering that catches your eye, the shock of colour multiplied by the power of the surprise factor often reawakens a long-forgotten thrill of finding treasure where you least expect it ‘Rocking’ – as it’s known in social circles – first took off in a coastal community not entirely unlike our own, straight across the (big) pond in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Here, the ‘Kindness Rocks Project’ sparked a global pebble-painting movement spreading messages of empathy, love and kindness, one stone at a time.

With nature as its medium and community as its method, it’s no wonder the Isle of Wight has taken

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this creative hobby to its heart; beginning several summers ago, when one local teacher spent her school holidays hiding pebbles painted with kindness-inspired slogans – including those in support of initiatives such as Anti-Bullying Week and 30 Days Wild. Four years on, and the Island’s ‘rocking’ community is still going strong, with children and grandparents alike delighting in the simple pleasures of painting, hiding (and seeking) pebbles right across the Island.

Hope | STYLE

Rules of rocking Though the basic premise is simple enough – find rock, paint rock, hide rock – there are a few important points to remember whenever natural resources (pebbles, yes – but this includes seashells, driftwood, and seaglass) are used in artwork, to ensure that you’re rocking responsibly.

Over the past few years, we’ve been lucky enough to happen upon all sorts of pebbles in all sorts of places: from a ‘Wight mouse’ resting casually on top of the garden wishing well at Chessell Pottery Café, to a beautifully intricate fairy house underneath the ‘fairy tree’ at St. Helens Duver. Somewhat predictably, no stone has ever been found when we’ve actually been looking for it; as anyone who has ever ‘tried’ to hunt for seaglass will know, seeking requires a certain mindset (or, rather, absence of mindset – a bit like reading an alethiometer!)

Children make the best ‘finders’ – the human brain is extremely sensitive to contrast, and babies as young as three

months can recognise a different pattern in a sea of sameness. As we get older, we develop a daily glaze preventing us from noticing the little things hiding in plain sight; opening our eyes to the possibility of treasure is, I always think, a little like foraging for the soul.

Though ‘rocking’ is an all-weather activity, there’s something about the first flushes of spring – and our seasonal predisposition towards scavenging for brightly coloured things – that makes the Easter holidays a great time to give pebblepainting a go; a family activity suitable for everyone from the tiddliest of tots to the techiest of teenagers.

Choosing the perfect pebble for your canvas is part of the fun; there are all sorts of considerations to be made regarding shape, weight, and texture. But here on the Island, stones also provide important stability to our much-loved sandy beaches, and are an important defence against flooding on our pebbly ones.

Stick to a ‘one perfect rock’ each rule, and where possible, rehide in the place that you first found it; bags of sustainable stones can also be bought from craft and DIY shops.

Perfect rock at the ready, all you need now is some paint (acrylic works best) and your imagination – and perhaps, if you’re anything like me, Pinterest. Despite the grandest of ambitions for mandalas and meaningful quotes, in the end it’s as much as I can manage to inscribe a one-word message while trying to keep the peace between one paintbrush-happy toddler and his bug-loving brother trying to accurately replicate his favourite Colorado Potato Beetle.

If you plan to leave them out and about for others to find, you’ll also want to seal the finished pebbles with a clear lacquer to protect against March winds and April showers.

This year will be our first time parting with our creations, and I must admit it’s quite exciting not knowing when, or by whom, they will be found – perhaps it will be you?

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Photo: Visit Isle of Wight

STYLE | Hope

F O L L O W T H E C O U N T RY S I D E C O D E With large numbers of people taking their once daily exercise in the countryside, the NFU and CLA are highlighting key do’s and don’ts amid the COVID-19 (C19) crisis.

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he two rural organisations have issued a joint statement, having received intelligence from their members that the sunny weather has brought large numbers of people to the countryside, not all of them behaving appropriately, despite Government advice to avoid unnecessary travel.

An NFU South East spokesman said: “We fully recognise that people want to take their once daily exercise in the countryside at a safe social distance from others during this C19 crisis.

“But we are reminding people that the countryside is also a working environment for farmers who are producing our food. Therefore we urge people to wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds before leaving home and on their return.

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“Please follow the Countryside Code, sticking to designated footpaths and at this critical time, please keep dogs on leads at all times, particularly as ewes (female sheep) are giving birth to lambs. This will not only reduce the risk of dog attacks on farm animals, it will also help to avoid unnecessary social contact between countryside users and farmers, many of whom are older and at greater risk of C19.”

Michael Valenzia, Regional Director of CLA South East which represents farmers, landowners and rural businesses, said: “We would urge people to follow Government calls to limit outdoor exercise to once a day, and do so as locally as possible, as well as practising responsible social distancing.

“If you have to walk in the countryside, please respect the Countryside Code which helps to protect British

landscapes as well as farmers and those living and working there. Now, more than ever, our farmers must be allowed to get on with the job of feeding Britain. Stick to public rights of way, keep dogs under control, take litter home, close gates and don’t block entrances or gateways.

“With most recycling centres shutting due to the coronavirus pandemic, we would also urge anyone tempted to fly-tip to think seriously about their actions. Fly-tipping is a scourge on the countryside and has a huge environmental and financial impact.

We ask everyone to be a responsible member of our community, especially at this time, when we should be supporting each other. Anyone committing this crime deserves to face the full force of the law.”

Hope | STYLE

ISLE OF WIGHT D I S T I L L E RY T U R N S I T S HAND TO SANITISER After being inundated with requests from local NHS teams and other key organisations, the Isle of Wight Distillery team turned its expertise and knowledge to the production of hand sanitiser for locals in need.

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he hand sanitiser was created using a World Health Organisation recommended formula and the first batches were distributed on a not-for-profit basis to key organisations in the local community, including St Mary’s NHS Trust, schools, residential homes and hospices.

Creator of the distillery’s signature spirit Mermaid Gin, Xavier Baker, said: “We’re seeing many Island businesses responding to the crisis with generosity, ingenuity and community spirit. We’re pleased that we can be of service to our local community at this challenging time.”

Isle of Wight Distillery co-founder, Conrad Gauntlett, commented: “Putting something back locally has always been part of our motivation for building the distillery and our brands – in these difficult times, we’re glad we can do something so immediate and critical to the health of the Island.”

Wight Wash hand sanitiser is now available to purchase online at: https:// isleofwightdistillery.com/product/ wight-wash-hand-sanitiser

Organisations wishing to purchase 5L drums are encouraged to email office@isleofwightdistillery.com

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STYLE | Hope

Mini First Aid Launch Online Course Award-winning first aid experts unveil two-hour course parents can learn from the safety of their own home

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ini First Aid, the multiaward winning brand delivering truly engaging first aid courses to parents and families, is thrilled to unveil the launch of its twohour online course.

‘During this unsettling period, we wanted to offer parents a practical solution so they can learn essential first aid, but in the safety of their own home’ 50

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With the current global Coronavirus crisis, Kate Ball, mum of six and Founder of Mini First Aid, wanted to offer parents an easy option to complete the two-hour first aid course from the safety of their own home.

The course has been developed so it is interactive, it also confirms understanding and tests learning – making it truly engaging. Once complete parents feel confident in the knowledge they’ve just learned.

Like the award-winning practical classes, the online course covers CPR, Choking, Bumps, Burns, Breaks, Bleeding, Febrile Seizures & Meningitis Awareness. The course takes two hours but can be paused or returned back to, which will be perfect if

parents are distracted or called away by their little one.

Speaking about the launch of the new online course, Founder of Mini First Aid Kate Ball said: “During this unsettling period, we wanted to offer parents a practical solution so they can learn essential first aid, but in the safety of their own home. Although we would recommend a parent attending a practical course at a later date, it’s quickly become apparent that parents are unfortunately unable to attend our classes at the moment, so we wanted to offer them an option so they can feel assured.”

Over 200,000 parents across the UK have been armed with practical, lifesaving skills, thanks to Mini First Aid. For details and registration visit www.minifirstaid.co.uk

Hope | STYLE

TRIBE AND TIDE N AV I G AT I N G I S L A N D FA M I LY L I F E

By Em ma Elobeid

Looking back through the past eighteen months of bi-monthly musings (because I have time to do that, now), it struck me how much I enjoy a good motherhood/islandhood motif. Much has been written about cyclical rhythms, an awful lot about going with the flow, and I am clearly a fan of the water-based motherhood metaphor. Here’s a new one: uncharted.

T

he collective waters we now find ourselves treading are not on any map. Without the usual catalogue of coast-to-coast calendrical events marking the island’s transition from late spring to early summer, it’s no surprise we all feel somewhat adrift. Because at the very time we would normally be storming our way through an annual spring-to-summer checklist (first picnic at Osborne, first outing to Crave ice-cream, first trip to the splash park), we’re stuck at home – wondering what to do with the vast latitudes of time lockdown has left in its wake.

Our only real navigation point for such prolonged containment is at the opposite end of the year. Prior to sitting down and writing this, I find a post-it on which I have scrawled the now-infamous words: “idea for summer holiday edition – the cultivation of boredom.” Life, as it happens, is delivering that particular lesson a few months ahead of schedule.

There is so much time to fill. And so, in between home-schooling and remote-working, we have been slowly and gently filling it. There has been an excess of rainbow crafting – from sticks and pebbles to clay and chalk.

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Getting used to a new world that feels outside of time

‘As days merge and weeks blend, we might as well measure time by puffs on a dandelion for all that it has real-world meaning.‘ We’ve discovered the satisfaction in using what we already have – from paint to bubble bath to flour.

To that end, we have also indulged (frequently) in the new national coping mechanism of banana bread baking.

We’re planting seedlings and actually having time to watch them unfold leafby-tiny-leaf. Brotherly love is declared and tested hourly; the guinea pigs are being showered with affection; and for every cup of coffee consumed there are another three mud-kitchen homebrewed concoctions we pretend to gulp with equal gusto. As days merge and weeks blend, we might as well measure time by puffs on a dandelion for all that it has real-world meaning.

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We take our daily walks in the fields and footpaths around our house.

In reacquainting ourselves with the micro-environments on our doorstep, we’re somehow noticing more than before the nature right in front of our noses: the blush-to-bubblegum pinkening of blossom, fractal shapes on fern fronds, how to identify wild violet for use in magical colourchanging science experiments. Each of us is instinctively documenting the pause in our own way: our eldest has taken to bringing his camera along for the journey, taking blurry images of birds and bugs (in his newfound role as Creative Director, he has solemnly declared the theme of this piece to

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Instinctive record-keeping will be a future reminder of a rarefied time.

be ‘nature’.) Our youngest is taking a more interpretive stance, prancing around muddy fields in a wildflower crown of his own making. As ever, I have retreated into writing. My husband, admittedly, is communicating mainly via lockdown memes with colleagues; a mixed-media family time capsule.

Our world has shrunk in ways we couldn’t have imagined just a couple of months ago. And yet, in so many weird and wonderful ways, it has also expanded – in exchange for less (travel, obligations, stuff) we’ve been given more (time, togetherness, traditions).

None of us yet know what life might look like when all of this is over: only that – to paraphrase a children’s classic – we can’t go over it, we can’t go under it, we’ve got to go through it. See you on the other side.

Follow more family adventures in this series from our Mum on an Island. If you have any questions or ideas we’d love to hear them. Please email office@styleofwight.co.uk May and June 2020

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Orion in the Sky Stor y from the Style of Wig ht Ch i ld ren’s Writi ng Book

By Isabel Watson (a ged 15) I l lustration Zoe Sa d ler

D

id you ever look up to the stars and wonder how they got there? Or ask yourself how did the constellations come to be? Well, this story is about the most famous constellation of them all – Orion, the hunter in the night.

A very long time ago, as these stories often are, there roamed animals we no longer believe in: Wingterrors - with velvety wings, three eyes and horns made from moonlight. There were other smaller creatures, who still roam the Earth today: Man. A small group of men with limited speech and limited life expectancy. No-one knew how they got there, they just were. And their job was to keep Night safe. They were the Night’s Hunters, I suppose you could say.

One of these Hunters was called Orion. He had a dog named Sirius, a small bow, a couple of blunt arrows and he wore a leather belt around his waist. He also had no skill whatsoever in using any of the above. To be a good Night Hunter you had to be able to whistle for your hunting dog, shoot a bulls-eye with your bow and fix your

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belt whenever it got broken. Orion could do none of these. Which is why he was always at the back.

On the night of Orion’s nineteenth Hunter’s Moon, disaster struck. A Wingterror attack shook the fragile Hunters’ camp, making even the fire spark in fear. There were sharp cries among the chaos: ‘Here!’

‘Bow!’ ‘Run!’ ‘Duck!’

Orion got lost among all the syllables.

He clapped once for Sirius before pounding towards what he thought was the forest…

SMACK! The Wingterror snarled, focusing its molten gaze down at the foolish bug sprawled in front of him. Orion stared back. The Wingterror was huge, its bear-like claws stabbed like knives, its wings were darker than the voids between hell’s flames, and … it was hungry.

Orion stumbled backwards in a panic.

Sirius leapt bravely in front of his master and growled at the Wingterror, who snapped back at the little dog.

Orion looked wildly around – he could see no aid. On the verge of defeat, Orion looked up one last time and saw the moon. His moon. And its bright light gave him courage.

He set his jaw and slowly, carefully, slid an arrow from his quiver. Sirius was still distracting the monster.

Good. With shaking, unpractised hands, Orion nocked the arrow. One shot. That’s all he’d get. He sighted down the wooden shaft, the arrow’s feathers stroking his cheek. Orion could have sworn he heard the trees whispering encouragement to him.

He took a sharp breath and let loose the arrow. The Wingterror let loose a scream.

Orion, the worst Night Hunter of them all, had slain the beast and saved the camp. For his bravery, when his days on the Earth were over, Night laid his soul to rest in the bright lights we call stars, where his faithful dog can still be seen running at his heels.

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How the Bee got its Sting Stor y from the Style of Wig ht Ch i ld ren’s Writi ng Book

By Wi l l ia m Watson (a ged 12) I l lustration Zoe Sa d ler

A

long time ago, in North America, there was a colony of bees, ruled by their beloved Queen, Beatrice (Bee to her friends). There was only one thing that threatened Bee’s Queendom and her buzzy people: Bears!

Horrible creatures they were – lumbering along without a care, stealing all the honey whenever they felt like it. And there was nothing Bee could do about it. Every morning at 11 o’clock (bears are very lazy, like my sister), one ginormous lump of a bear would come plodding along to Bee’s hive and shake the tree like crazy, making the Queen buzz angrily out of her palace.

“What do you want?”

“I just came by to say ‘hi’, and to steal a bit of your honey.” said the bear, licking his lips hungrily, and he flicked the Queen out of the way like a speck of dust. He reached inside, took a large pawful of honey and began to gobble it up.

“Stop it this instant! Put that back!” the

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Queen shouted. But the bear laughed, licked his paws, went down on all fours and ran away.

Queen Bee had just finished slurping down a calming cup of honey when Benjy burst in.

“I really do hate that bear,” grumbled Bee.

“Hello, Benjy, what brings you here?”

Now, inside the hive was a giant city completely made out of honeycomb and essence of pure yellow. There were yellow houses and even yellow schools. And now it’s time to meet Benjy. Benjy was the cleverest little bee in his primary school (his school report said he was, “a charming little fellow with great potential”, which made him laugh). He dreamed of being a top bee scientist when he grew bigger. When Benjy’s friends were playing on their X-bees or their Nintendo Bee-Us, Benjy was reading the latest science news or staring into space thinking about his next invention. When he heard about the greedy bear he quivered in his little bee boots. He had just had the most massive brainwave ever in the history of Benjy the bee. He was so excited that, even without his mum’s permission, he ran out of the house all the way down to the Queen’s palace.

“Hello, Queen Bee. I have had a marvellous idea about how to make that bear pay for all the honey he has stolen.”

And Benjy whispered his idea into the Queen’s ear. Queen Bee smiled so much it could make anyone cheery.

The next day, as usual, the greedy bear plodded down the path and started shaking the tree.

“Hello, Queeny. I’ve come for your honey again and you can’t stop me,” laughed the bear.

“Oh really?” smiled Queen Bee. “Citizens, ATTACK!” You should have seen the fight they put up. Benjy’s plan was simple. All the bees had gathered prickles from the holly bushes nearby and used them as weapons against the bear. The bear roared out in pain and ran away, never to bother them again.

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Children’s Writing Competition

Our top tips for creative writing

Ch i ldren have limitless imag inations and harnessing th is into creative w riting needs a little g uided input from both parents and teachers. Here are some top tips for supporting them.

Read up

Regular reading is a stepping stone to better writing and helps children strengthen their writing skills. It helps expand children’s vocabulary and shows them different ways of using words. This also makes it easier for them to use these words in their own writing. Start reading early—many children who devour books grow up to become strong writers themselves.

Make it fun!

Play games and activities that encourage writing. Crossword puzzles and word games are great for everyone. Little ones will especially like the “write the word” game: where they search for items and write down the word when they find each item.

Encourage journaling Keeping a journal is a great way to express thoughts and ideas while also working on improving children’s writing skills. Plan an outing to pick a fun journal with

Sponsored by:

ROBIN MCINNES OBE

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your child and encourage them to write in it as much as possible.

Make it a part of his or her daily routine.

Create a writing space

Set aside a corner in your house that is completely devoted to writing. An area dedicated solely to writing will help free your child from distractions so they can focus on practising writing skills.

Create time

Reading and writing take a lot of time and mental energy, so you cannot expect your child to write a story in between soccer practice and piano lessons. Let your child explore the world of words during times when they can relax, breathe, contemplate and think freely.

To enter the Style of Wight Children’s Writing Competition please email: office@styleofwight.co.uk or visit: styleofwight.co.uk

Hope | STYLE

From the Style A rch ives - Issue 34

Tips for

LIVING M I N D F U L LY Having started her quest to spread inspiration to live a healthy lifestyle as a personal trainer, Kali soon realised that there was more to optimum health than just fitness. Here she shares her knowledge and enthusiasm to empower others to take responsibility for their own physical, emotional and spiritual health to find harmony, balance and a beautiful zest for life.

I

n modern times life is busy and stressful. We often multi-task, take on more than we have time for, set unrealistic deadlines and beat ourselves up for not meeting all our commitments. We spend hours on technology such as laptops, phones, tablets and ipods. How often do you find yourself checking your phone just before bed or first thing in the morning? Think of your mind as a computer, when you are trying to do multiple things at once and spreading your attention thinly, you are effectively opening up lots of different tabs and this ultimately slows everything down so you just can’t work as efficiently.

All of this is adding to our stress levels and disabling the mind from just

enjoying the present moment. Take a minute to just observe your thoughts and you will probably find that they invariably include worries about the past or concerns about the future – all of which you have no control over.

The good news is we are all offered a gift in each and every moment – that is why it is called the ‘present’. We all have the ability to access peace and clarity, if only we would just stop for a moment to realise it. When you give your full attention to something, to actually notice every aspect of an object, act or person, you bring your mind to stillness. Embrace that childlike curiosity buried within you and let go of expectations and time-based pressures, just enjoy being.

Check out the tips below on how to introduce a little mindfulness into your daily life: 1) Set a mindfulness alarm on your phone or PC. When it chimes, stop what you are doing and take 3 long deep breaths.

Bring all your awareness to the breath and enjoy being present in that very moment.

2) Don’t react, respond. When met with a challenging situation just take some long deep breaths and choose your words carefully. You have a choice to fuel the fire and become angry or be the cool cat and remain calm.

3) Have compassion. Remember that you have no idea what anyone else is going through so don’t judge, don’t get annoyed because they didn’t do what you wanted, just be patient and accepting.

4) Manage your time effectively.

Don’t leave yourself open to unnecessary stress - plan ahead, prioritise and don’t over book yourself.

5) Get out into nature. Just a few minutes walking and taking note of all the sounds, smells and beauty all around you has an incredibly healing effect on the mind. Awaken all the senses and let go of your thoughts and worries.

6) When you are doing something, give all your attention to that thing. Turn the radio off in the car, listen to your child or partner talk with undivided attention.

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Speedy vegetables to grow at home Gardeners who want to see the fruits of their labours sooner rather than later should opt for these six vegetables with the quickest growing times

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Salad leaves and radishes are two varieties that produce the quickest results, but some carrot types and dwarf green beans are also speedy.

These varieties are also easy to grow as they don’t require much ongoing maintenance, so are perfect for beginners too.

1. Cress Sowing to harvest: 5-7 days

3. Radishes Sowing to harvest: 25 days Radishes are one of the fastest vegetables to grow, taking just 3-4 weeks. Seeds can be sown into prepared ground or pots of potting soil. Make sure you sow the seeds very thinly, spacing them about 2.5cm apart.

Sprinkle cress seeds over the surface of a pot or sow in the ground in either a block or row, quite close together.

If cress becomes too hot and dry, it tends to bolt, so it’s a good choice for an area that’s a bit shady and, for best results, it needs to be grown in soil that remains moist.

6. Dwarf green beans Sowing to harvest: 60 days

4. Spinach Sowing to harvest: 30 days

2. Salad leaves Sowing to harvest: 21 days Grow individual varieties of salad leaves or create your own blend by mixing two or more varieties together before sowing. For the quickest results, sow the seeds very thinly spaced around 15-25cm apart. Cover the seeds over gently and pat the surface of the soil down. Water along the rows then keep the soil moist and weed-free as the seedlings grow.

over the surface, then cover with a thin sieved layer of compost.

Start spinach off once a month to enjoy right up until the first frosts. Sow into rows about 30cm apart and set the seeds 2.5cm apart. Then, thin the resulting seedlings to roughly 20cm apart. Plants can quickly bolt in hot weather, which causes the leaves to turn bitter. Prevent this by sowing in light shade during the heat of summer and by keeping the ground moist.

Taking just two months from sowing to pod production, dwarf green beans are one of the quickest growing varieties – plus kids love them! In summer the beans can be sown directly into the ground or into pots of potting soil. Poke the seeds into the soil so they are 25-40cm apart. Sow a batch once a month until the end of summer.

For seeds visit: www.botanic.co.uk and www.gardeningexpress.co.uk

5. Carrots Sowing to harvest: 50 days Regular carrots are not the speediest vegetables but choose a quickgrowing finger-sized variety and you can expect sweet, crunchy crops in just six weeks. Sow into pots of potting soil, spreading the seed thinly

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Food for thought w ith seasona l food g uru Jo Richa rdson

E AT I N G I N I S L A N D S T Y L E In these most uncertain of times, we can take comfort in the fact that we have a source of food from our surrounding fertile fields and waters – expertly nurtured and harvested – on which we can depend. What’s more, its high quality ensures a superior eating experience, bringing us much-needed day-to-day pleasure. And all available, at the time of writing in full lockdown, for doorstep delivery to help keep the many vulnerable residents among us safe. bakers and other food and drink producers and suppliers, how swiftly and effectively have they all swung into action to meet the considerable challenges that social distancing and self-isolation have posed by establishing or scaling up their home delivery services, and in a spirit of mutual cooperation rather than competition. As a result, being confined to barracks doesn’t mean resigning ourselves to subsisting on storecupboard staples; in lieu of dining out, we can fine dine in for less.

Vegetable plotting Suddenly having to meal plan for the week ahead came as a bit of a shock to me as someone more inclined towards an off-the-cuff approach to home catering, and I doubt I’m alone in that, but I have since seen the light in the interests of greater efficiency and zero food waste. A weekly veg and fruit box (mine from Living Larder) or selection from the local farm/ food shop makes an ecologically sound, healthy basis for plotting a

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varied menu, and may well inspire new dishes by introducing unfamiliar seasonal items or widening the usual choice. Now is also the perfect time of year to enjoy tender young veggies, salad ingredients and herbs as well as luscious berries, so we can rest assured that we won’t be missing out on the season’s best.

Living high on the hog Talking of our farm shops, along with small local food stores, butchers,

Take my online trip to Brownrigg’s Farm Shop, for example, when I selected a plump duck breast, generous enough for two, for panfrying, finishing off in the oven and serving with caramelized apple and Island asparagus; a pack of chicken livers for the freezer for knocking up a risotto with some new-season peas; dry-cured ham slices and The Tomato Stall vine toms for a plough (more like mow) man’s lunch; even Grace’s Bakery malted bread flour and dried yeast for homemade bread making. When time is shorter (that giant jigsaw puzzle isn’t going to solve itself), I can instead take a virtual jaunt up to The Farm Shop in Bembridge village and bag myself a loaf of that amazing Island Bakers bread, with some Lymington strawberries and Briddlesford’s luxurious cream for a cheering cream tea, plus some organic bulgur wheat, dried fruit and nuts for a pilaf to accompany a veg tagine. Then there’s Woodford’s the butchers for

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S E A S O N A L S WA P S

Swap packaged fish fillets for some of the local catch, such as plaice fillets, super-quick to cook and perfect served with herb butter and new pots Instead of ordering from the supermarket, stock up your freezer or fridge with a meat pack from your local butcher or meat supplier featuring quality Island produce Rather than buying fresh fruit and veg, try your hand at growing your own – check out the Green Island Veg Economy (GIVE) initiative for sharing/ swapping surplus seeds, plants, crops and know-how Make your own elderflower cordial from foraged elderflowers instead of buying it

Food high lights:

prime pork bangers and not-tobe-missed frozen versions of their famous sausage rolls for home baking.

Delivering the best For more home-delivery options Island-wide and in your area, consult the online directories www.atoztome.com and www. tasteofthewight.co.uk/open/, which also cover artisanal/restaurant takeaways. So let’s grasp this opportunity to re-evaluate our food choices and make a commitment to our local enterprises into the future.

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Dining out whilst staying in: our favourite venues are offering delivery and pick-up services

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Mermaid spring cocktails: create these at home cocktail recipes with Mermaid Gin

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Dining out while staying in W hi le their doors are closed many of our favourite venues are offering some pretty tasty delivery and pick-up ser v ices. If it’s your turn to cook why not consider one of these and ma ke your household feel li ke they are dining out Venue: T he Litt le Gloster Del iver ies: Free loca l l y w it h a m i n i mu m spend W hen: T hu rsda ys to Su nda ys

Ben and Holly have launched ‘The Little Gloster at Home’ offering a selection of high quality luxury dishes and drinks to enjoy in your own home, served hot, in partnership with Wight & Wessex Wines.

Delivery and collection is free of charge within the Cowes, Northwood and Gurnard area and the minimum spend is £30. Place your order online via the website or by phoning. Orders can be placed throughout the day/week - with delivery and collection available on the following days/times, ongoing.

The Little Gloster Restaurant 31 Marsh Road, Gurnard, PO31 8JQ t. 01983 298776 info@thelittlegloster.com www.thelittlegloster.com

Venue: M ichela n gelo R est au ra nt Del iver ies: Ryde a rea or pick-up W hen: Ever y da y except Wed nesda y

Michaelangelos are offering their full menu to choose from, either to pick up or delivered to your door. Collection and delivery (in Ryde area) slots are available between 4pm and 8pm every day except on Wednesdays.

Lunch, special requests and longer distance deliveries can also be accommodated with a minimum of 24 hours’ advance notice You can call the restaurant with your order from 12 noon till 7pm.

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The menu is visible on Michelangelos website and also on facebook, but they do like the orders to be done on the phone as it is great to keep in touch with their customers.

They are also offering special menus for special occasions like Easter and the May bank holiday.

Michelangelo, 30 St. Thomas St, Ryde PO33 2DL t. 01983 811966 www.ristorantemichelangelo.co.uk

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Venue: 33 St Helens Del iver ies: Col lect ions on l y W hen: Su nda ys a nd Fr ida ys

Fryday Fish Supper 33 St Helens is open for fish and chips on Fridays from 6pm - 8pm. The service is collection only. People must pre-order and it is on a first come, first served basis - get in early as they often sell out. Call and leave a message and they will get back to you with a time slot for collection (working within 15 minute time slots to prevent too many people congregating).

You can pay either contactless or cash upon collection.

Sunday Roasts Superb Sunday roasts are available between 12pm and 3pm and follow a similar format to the fish and chips. Pre-ordering is very much advised, as time slots need to be given for collection. All their roasts are plated and ready to serve. They kindly just ask for the plates to be returned before the next Sunday.

They also have desserts and wine (by the bottle!) available for takeaway.

Venue: T he Mer ma id Ba r at t he Wi sh i n g Wel l Del iver ies: Free loca l l y w it h m i n i mu m spend W hen: Wed nesda y to Satu rda y

33 St Helens, Lower Green Rd, St. Helens, PO33 1TS t. 01983 872303 info@33-st-helens.co.uk

The Mermaid Bar at the Wishing Well Bar now operates a food delivery service from Wednesday to Saturday, 5pm - 8pm, every week within a two mile radius: covering Binstead, Ryde, Seaview, St Helens and Bembridge. The food delivery menu can be found on their Facebook page and offers a large choice of pub classics including a signature Mermaid Burger. There is a vegetarian option and a broad range of pizzas, including gluten-free options if you call ahead on the day of order to request it. There is also a children’s menu so that the whole family can enjoy a night in without having to cook. Delivery is free and the minimum order is £10.00. If you wish to add a bottle of Mermaid Gin, Rosemary Vineyard Wine or Goddards Beer to the order you can when you call through and it will be delivered together with your food.

The Mermaid Bar, Pondwell Hill, Ryde, PO33 1PX t. 01983 613653 (option 1). www.isleofwightdistillery.com www.facebook.com/mermaidbariow

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Delivered to your door If you can’t get out or are keen to not venture too far don’t panic. Your loca l artisan producers are here to help keep you used to the fine qua lity and ser v ice you have come to love

Beer and wine Island Ales Are offering home deliveries with no minimum order quantity or delivery charge on Beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks. Most of their orders are despatched the same day.

Best contact is by phone on 01983 821731 although some info (for example available wines) is shown on the Island Ales website, and the Island Brewery ales are shown on the Island Brewery website.

Goddards Brewery

Your local butcher Woodfords of Bembridge Our favourite Island butchers are offering a fabulous home delivery service free for orders over £20 and they deliver Island-wide, daily. They can also take card payments upon delivery or over the phone. Or you can collect by appointment from their shop in Bembridge.

Here are some samples of the packs on offer: Pack 1 1 x Whole Chicken, 500g x Mince, 500g x Diced Beef, 6 x Pork Sausages, 500g x Back Bacon, 6 x Eggs £29.99 with FREE Island-wide next day delivery Pack 2 1 x Leg of Lamb, 4 x Chicken Legs, 4 x Chicken Breast, 6 x Italian Sausages, 500g x Streaky Bacon, 6 x Eggs £55 with FREE Island-wide next day delivery Visit the website or facebook pages for latest offers and any updates. www.woodfordandsons.co.uk www.facebook.com/W.W.WoodfordandSon Telephone: 01983 872717

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Goddards are pleased to be able to offer free delivery Island-wide across their range. Please note deliveries will only be made on Mondays to Fridays. Orders need to be placed by 9.30am to guarantee delivery that day (weekdays only).

To arrange your orders you can use any of the following options: Visit their online shop - use code SupportLocal to get free delivery.

Telephone: 01983 611011 Email: office@goddardsbrewery.com Send a DM on Facebook or Twitter (goddardsbrewery)

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Food lovers hamper Isle of Wight Hampers Isle of Wight Hampers continues to showcase a selection of the Isle of Wight's best produce through beautifully curated hampers, for any occasion.

Cakes and sweet treats Gladys May Cakery Making people happy with baking is the mantra for these guys and they are still working through to help deliver this now more than ever. Check social media for the latest offers and be sure to book yours early, even baking everyday these tasty treats are going fast! They are offering free delivery to Ryde and Binstead or a £2 surcharge to deliver Island-wide.

Their 'Just to Say' bespoke hamper service is proving even more popular than ever with the current lockdown restrictions. If you have an occasion coming up for a loved one, or you would simply love to let someone know you're thinking of them, a hamper makes an excellent choice.

All of the contents are presented in a kraft style presentation box with seasonal flower, ribbon and gift card, Island-wide delivery is always included and shipping to the mainland is available for a fee.

Launching the new weekly Cheese Takeout: Have a gorgeous selection of Isle of Wight products delivered to your doorstep, helping create the most beautiful cheese board and experience with your loved ones at home. Featuring three fantastic Isle of Wight Cheeses, crackers, chutney and olives all presented in a reusable paper cool bag! And delivered to your door on a Friday ready to enjoy at your leisure over the weekend and beyond. They also have their minibar in full swing so you can complement your takeout with your favourite Island tipple.

Contact Jenna to help with your bespoke hamper.

Telephone: 07377 079 148 Email: jenna@iowhampers.co.uk To place your order visit www.iowhampers.co.uk

This is one of our favourite examples to try: Mixed Brownie Boxes 1 x Terry's Chocolate Orange brownie 1 x Rolo Caramel swirl brownie 1 x Kinder Bueno Nutella swirl brownie 1 x Hersheys cookie and cream brownie 1 x Milky Way brownie 1 x Kinder bar brownie £12 for 6 big pieces gladysmaycakery.co.uk Email: info@gladysmaycakery.co.uk www.facebook.com/gladysmaycakery

Freshly roasted coffee and artisan teas Island Roasted, Caffé Isola Lovers of the finest coffee are still safe – Island Roasted are roasting web orders on a Monday and a Thursday. Orders must be received before 9am to be included in that day’s roast schedule.

IOW orders are currently delivered by their team and will be left on your doorstep in the interests of social distancing so please leave a contact number in case they need to reach you. They can also help with deliveries of expertly sourced gear and the newly launched Wight Tea is also available on the website www.islandroasted.co.uk

Ice cream Crave of Ventnor Award Winning Artisan Ice Cream makers Crave of Ventnor are now offering deliveries on their ever changing flavours in tubs only, they will be available in our online shop for home delivery Island-wide. The online shop will only be open on a Wednesday and deliveries will be from Thursday to Sunday depending on area. Residents local to Ventnor are able to phone, reserve and collect, during their essential journey into town.

t. 01983 472143 www.crave-ice-cream.myshopify.com

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From the Style A rch ives - Issue 52

Mixed baby leaf salad WITH HONEY AND CIDER VINEGAR DRESSING

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Food | STYLE

From the Style A rch ives - Issue 58

Leftovers

An estimated six million tonnes of food from households is sent to landfill every year.

These figures are quite astounding. We all know how easy it is to forget to eat up food before its use by date, but with better storage, better preparation and some recipes to help you make the most of your leftovers, we can bring this figure down I l lustrations Li l ly Lou ise A l len

Potato and chorizo hash Cooked up too many potatoes for dinner?

Don't let them go to waste, save them for the morning. We'll show you how to add in a few staple ingredients to create the perfect breakfast hash Ingredients Three cooked potatoes Two eggs One onion One clove of garlic 120g chorizo Half a bunch of fresh parsley Method Preheat the oven to 180ËšC. Dice the potatoes and chop the chorizo. Finely chop the garlic, parsley and onion.

Fry the onion and garlic in an ovenproof pan on a low heat with a small amount of oil. Once the onion has softened, add the chorizo and fry for an extra couple of minutes.

Now add the potatoes and cook for five more minutes. Crack the eggs on top of the ingredients in the pan.

Put the pan in the oven and cook until the egg white is cooked through. You’ll want the yolk to remain runny. This should take around eight minutes.

Serve with the chopped parsley and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.

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Banana bread Use up those browning bananas that look fit for the compost heap with this deliciously gooey banana bread recipe Ingredients Four overly ripe bananas Two large eggs 115g of melted butter 150g of granulated sugar One teaspoon of vanilla extract 210g of plain flour One teaspoon of baking soda Method Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a loaf tin (of approximately 8 x 4 inches) with butter.

Mash bananas in a bowl. Add all ingredients to the bowl and whisk until combined.

Pour mixture into loaf tin and bake for around 50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the loaf comes out clean. Let it cool on a wire rack before removing from the tin.

Or try these: Bread and butter pudding Bubble and squeak Apple and rhubarb crumble Fisherman's pie Soup Meat pie

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The riper the banana the better

Food | STYLE

Store onions and potatoes in a basket or sack, and keep them in a dark place

ur o y p Kee rs! ja

aps r w x a w s e e in b Wrap food de or shop bought - homema

Store your food without using plastic...

Freeze leftovers in glass jars and containers

Stand carrots and greens in jars of water into a Roll lettucend keep tea towel aridge in the f

Store wh fruits in ole th freezer e

in a d a e r b p a r W d store n a l e w o t a te in in a bread b

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LOCAL PRODUCERS ARE DOING THEIR BIT… The Island is rising to the challenges created by COVID-19, and that includes our local food producers, who are stepping up and making it count! protect the Island's heritage, ensure farmers get a fair price and to reduce the impact on the environment by reducing travel distances.

Briddlesford's processing plant stops milk having to go off the Island to be processed and ensures the highest standards with a 12 day shelf life.

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sle of Wight dairy producer Briddlesford Lodge Farm has helped residents get essential supplies during the COVID-19 pandemic by supplying thousands of litres of milk to local co-operative stores.

Staff at the farm’s processing plant have been working around the clock to produce IOW milk since people began panic-buying ahead of the lockdown. Over the last month, the new local milk brand has replaced other standard milk products in Southern Co-op's convenience stores, which has freed up space in delivery vehicles for other essential products.

Around 7,000 units of IOW Milk are now being sold each week in Southern Co-op's nine Isle of Wight stores, alongside cream and butter products from Briddlesford Lodge Farm. Matt Elliott, part of the Trading and Format team which looks after the Local Flavours range at Southern Co-op, said: "As with all retailers, we

saw initial panic-buying which led to a shortage of product in stores as the distribution network struggled to keep pace. "Having supplies from a producer on the Isle of Wight has made a massive impact on the stock on our shelves. Every unit of milk which is supplied by Briddlesford Lodge Farm has freed up space on a delivery vehicle.”

IOW Milk was trialled by Southern Co-op in October 2019 as part of its commitment to support local suppliers. It was later rolled out to all nine of its stores in December. These are The Co-operative Food - Shanklin in Regent Street, Sandown in Avenue Road (petrol station), Rookley in Main Road, Ryde in West Street, Bembridge in Sherbourne Street, Cowes in Mill Hill Road, Carisbrooke in the High Street, Freshwater in Avenue Road and Afton Road.

IOW Milk is a partnership between Read's Farm in Carisbrooke and Briddlesford Lodge Farm as a way to

For more information on Southern Co-op's Local Flavours range, visit thesouthernco-operative.co.uk.

For more information on Briddlesford Farm Dairy, visit briddlesford.co.uk.

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The milk currently costs £1.30 for a two litre bottle of either whole milk, semi-skimmed or skimmed. It is also available in 500ml and one litre bottles.

Paul Griffin, from Briddlesford Lodge Farm, said: "Our dairy staff are working flat-out to meet this demand, but it is a win-win in terms of supporting both Isle of Wight food and farming and our wider local economy. "Together, we are reducing food miles, and maintaining supply lines to our Isle of Wight customers when the distribution network of the whole country has been compromised.”

TGI-French Franks Popular catering business French Franks’ St Cross Business park outlet opened for one day only for ‘TFI Friday’. The event was publicised through the hospital and the company’s facebook account with free breakfast rolls, pastries and coffee for frontline NHS & Care workers.

With a station set up outside the premises orders for over 500 people were served by the owners and staff volunteers. Owner Mark Horton said it was great to get back to work and serve a lovely group of people currently stepping up to a challenge none of us could have imagined a few months ago.

Food | STYLE

Simple recipes More time at home inevitably means more time in the kitchen - an opportunity to learn some new skills, or just refine some forgotten ones.

Most of us are enjoying a much healthier diet and the time to dedicate to food has allowed us to get creative and also provide healthier choices for our family meal times. There are loads of online feeds so we thought we’d share some easier simple recipes that might help mix up the mid-week and maybe even give you something to do on a damp afternoon.

What’s on the menu...

Tuscan fries

Asparagus fritatta Easy pizza dough Spring hedgerow pesto Honeycomb

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Asparagus fritatta This fab recipe is from our friends at Farmer Jacks in Arreton and uses the most fabulous local produce. A simple and easy recipe that can be versatile as a lunch or late supper.

Tuscan fries

adjust cooking times accordingly.

Load up a clean tea towel with the chips as you cut them. Gently pat dry.

Ingredients

Put the oil into a wide, heavy-based roasting tray and pop into the oven for 10 minutes to get some heat in the tray. Remove the pan and carefully add the cut potatoes, place back in the oven for another 10 minutes to start the fries cooking.

1kg/2lb 4oz waxy potatoes like Maris Piper generous glug of quality flavourless oil – rapeseed is ideal or veg will work fine 1 head garlic, cloves separated, gently broken but not peeled sprigs thyme, rosemary or sage, or dried herbs of your choice – we used a mediterranean style mix sea salt to taste Method Cut the short ends off each potato (but don’t peel it) so that it can sit up vertically, and then slice it downwards into slices and again into chips. Make them as thick or thin as you like, I prefer thin ones – just be mindful to

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Remove the tray again and very carefully add the herbs and garlic, give the chips a gentle stir with a pair of tongs. Place the tray back in the oven watch the chips every 5 minutes as they can quickly turn from golden to burnt. Once cooked to your liking plate and sprinkle with sea salt flakes to taste, serving immediately.

Ingredients Olive oil Asparagus 1 bunch, trimmed and cut into small pieces of about 2.5cm 1 small onion diced 1 handful of IW Tomato Stall cherry tomatoes 1 cup of Briddlesford Farm milk 6 IW free range eggs 100g of crumbled Feta cheese or any local soft cheese can work Method Preheat the oven to 100c (200f). In a heavy based pan or skillet add a drizzle of olive oil and heat. Add the diced onions and let them cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until they are softened. Add the asparagus and cherry tomatoes. In a bowl whisk the milk, eggs, salt and pepper until combined. Pour the egg mixture on top of the veggies but don’t stir too much – let this cook though for about 5 minutes – be careful not to let the bottom burn. Turn off the gas and sprinkle the cheese on top and place in the oven. Let the frittata cook for about 10 minutes or until golden brown on the edges. Serve immediately.

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Food | STYLE

Easy pizza dough

Spring hedgerow Honeycomb pesto Ingredients

Ingredients

This one is courtesy of Mark Horton of French Franks and is a great way of adding extra interest to your daily walks with a bit of foraging – be sure to research what to pick and if you’re not sure don’t take any chances. As well as being tasty, nettles are up there in superfood standings, packed with magnesium, iron and calcium - all essential minerals for healthy humans, and reportedly great for arthritis and joint pain, gout and urinary tract health.

350g flour 2 ¾ tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 1 tbsp oil Method Heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Mix together 350g flour, 2 ¾ tsp baking powder and 1 tsp salt in a small bowl, add 1 tbsp oil and 170ml water then stir until it forms a ball. If stiff, add more water, it should be soft but not sticky.

Knead on a floured surface for 3-4 mins. Roll into 2 balls, then flatten out. Add toppings and bake each on a baking sheet for 15 mins.

Ingredients breadcrumbs toasted – from one slice two handfuls of young nettle leaves and thin stalks 3-4 shoots young wild garlic 20g parmesan or another hard cheese 150ml local rapeseed oil salt and pepper Method

You can stay classic or go as creative as you like for the toppings. There is an easy sauce you can make using local IW Tomatoes.

Check the nettles and garlic leaves for wildlife, rinse well and then place into boiling water for 60 seconds. Cool straight away by plunging into ice cold water and dry well. Put into a blender with half the oil and all the other ingredients, blend on highest setting and add the remaining oil until it gets to the right thickness.

Serve with pasta for a quick lunch, add extra oil and vinegar to make a salad dressing or use to make something more fancy like chicken kievs.

butter for greasing 200g caster sugar 5 tbsp golden syrup 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda Method Butter a 20cm square tin.

Mix 200g caster sugar and 5 tbsp golden syrup in a deep saucepan and gently stir over a low heat until the sugar has melted not letting the mixture bubble until the sugar grains have all disappeared.

Once the sugar completely melted, turn up the heat a little and simmer until you have an amber coloured caramel (this will happen quickly), then turn off the heat, tip in 2 tsp bicarbonate of soda and mix in with a wooden spoon until it has all disappeared and the mixture is foaming – fun for the kids to watch but be safe.

Pour and scrape into the tin immediately – again be careful as the mixture will be very hot. The mixture will continue bubbling in the tin, simply leave it and in about 1 hr - 1 hr 30 mins the honeycomb will be hard and ready to crumble or snap into chunks.

Get older k id s i nvolved w it h t he ma k i n g a s t he process i s i nterest i n g to scient i f ic bra i n s - be ca ref u l a nd don’t leave u nattended a s su ga r ca n bu r n ver y qu ick ly a nd rea ches h i g h temperatu res.

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Isle of Wight

Asparagus

Hailed by leading chefs as the best in the world, be sure you don’t miss out on its relatively short season of just seven to eight wonderful weeks. This sensational ‘super food’ comes packed with nutrients, bursting with taste that can be enjoyed by everyone – the young, the old, families, the health-conscious and pregnant women alike. A truly versatile vegetable, so think summer… think asparagus!

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Food | STYLE

From the Style A rch ives - Issue 28

The season

Grow your own

The British asparagus season traditionally begins on 1st May and runs for around seven to eight weeks, until the end of June. Asparagus is very climate dependent (the soil temperature must be at least 10ºc before it grows), so if it’s been a warm spring then it’s possible to see the first asparagus spears on the shelves in late April.

Few people currently grow asparagus despite the current national obsession with ‘grow your own’. Perhaps it’s because asparagus growing is a labour of love. Investment of time and patience is required – and this is why it’s not the cheapest vegetable in the shops. You don’t need acres of land or huge experience, just a genuine passion and a few essential items.

While we might all grumble about the British weather, the UK climate allows asparagus stems to develop slowly, producing a full, sweet flavour and a fine, tender texture. With the Isle of Wight’s climate making for even more refined conditions, ours must surely be the best in the world.

Asparagus will grow well if you set up the right conditions from the outset – it’s worth it as the plants will crop for up to twenty years once established.

Visit www.styleofwight.co.uk to see a step-by-step ‘how to grow guide’ written by expert asparagus growers – kindly supplied by the British Asparagus Council.

Ben Brown, of Isle of Wight asparagus growers A.E. Brown Farms in Arreton

How is the Island’s climate suited to asparagus growing?

Asparagus is traditionally a coastal plant - it thrives in sandy soil and loves the briny air of the Isle of Wight. On a sunny day, a single spear can grow as much as 15cm!

Nature’s health food A veritable health cocktail, this wonderveg is bursting with goodness: • Low in calories • Low in Fat • Low in carbohydrate • Low in sodium • Cholesterol free Seven spears (80g) is equivalent to one of your 5-a-day serving and will provide*: • 69% of the Recommended Daily Amount (RDA) of Folate • 20% of the RDA of Vitamin C • 12% of the RDA of Vitamin B1 * Figures based on typical women aged 19 - 50 yrs.

What are the challenges of growing asparagus?

Cooking Tips Asparagus is traditionally served simply steamed or lightly boiled and is delicious either way.

However, it can also be roasted; chargrilled, stirfried or a personal favourite of our editor’s is barbecued.

Try the kids on lightly buttered asparagus spears dipped in runny boiled eggs for a healthy tasty lunch.

Because the spears grow at different rates, asparagus has to be individually picked by hand, when each spear has reached around 22cm. During peak season, we have to harvest the crop twice a day, to catch the ripe asparagus before its tender tips begin to flower.

What makes the tastiest asparagus?

Asparagus comes in all different stem sizes, from jumbo stalks that are great for roasting, to the slenderest stems best briefly stirfried. In all cases, the dark green hue is an indicator of the finest flavour. Pale asparagus is usually as lacking in taste as it is colour.

Source: McCance & Widdowson’s The Composition of Foods, Sixth summary Edition.

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STYLE | Food

Mermaid spring cocktails

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Relax with a Mermaid cocktail and make the most of the spring sunshine, with these simple to create at home recipes created by local mixologist Marc Quainton-Davis

Food | STYLE

Mermaid seventh heaven An elegant and classic cocktail, with the addition of Mermaid.

Ingredients 50ml Mermaid Gin 25ml fresh grapefruit juice 1tsp maraschino liqueur grapefruit peel maraschino cherry Method Fill a shaker with ice and add freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, Mermaid and maraschino liqueur (if none available, cherry juice works just as well!). Shake vigorously for 10 seconds, then strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Garnish with twisted grapefruit peel and a maraschino cherry.

Grapefruit & sage spritz Tantalise your tastebuds with the delightfully refreshing grapefruit & sage spritz, the perfect cocktail for a spring evening!

Ingredients 30ml Mermaid Gin 50ml grapefruit juice 25ml elderflower cordial champagne or Prosecco sage Method Fill a tumbler with ice, add Mermaid, juice, cordial and just a couple of sage leaves. Stir together, top up with champagne or prosecco and garnish with a fresh cut of grapefruit, for a deliciously refreshing serve.

You can order Mermaid Gin from www.isleofwightdistillery.com/range

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LOOK AFTER YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Vitamin C Vitamin C has long been recognised as helping to build up your immune system. Vitamin C is thought to increase the production of white blood cells which are key to fighting infections.

Popular sources include: grapefruit, oranges, lemons, limes, kiwi and leafy greens.

Because your body does not produce or store it, you need daily vitamin C for continued health.

Almost all citrus fruits are high in vitamin C. With such a variety to choose from, it is easy to add a squeeze of this vitamin to any meal. If you are unable to get enough vitamin C from your food, then try supplementing.

Microbiomes Our bodies contain more cells belonging to microbes, such as bacteria and yeasts, than human ones, meaning that we live in a symbiotic relationship with our gut bacteria. Not only do our microbes form protective barriers, they also programme our immune systems. So, it is important that we look after our gut bacteria to help us fight the viruses that are constantly around us. To feed your gut flora, eat a more varied diet rich in plant food and lots of high fibre. Supplementing with probiotics can have some benefits, but not all will survive the journey through your digestive tract, so it is more effective to change your diet. Kefir yogurt and pickles such as sauerkraut and kimchi are among the fermented delicacies now fashionable thanks to our increasing knowledge

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of the microbiome. For those who are vegan or have a dairy intolerance, why not try water kefir? Water kefir is a probiotic beverage made with water kefir grains. Water kefir grains can be used to culture sugar water, juice, or coconut water. You can grow the kefir at home, creating lots of lovely ways to add this to your diet.

Sleep Sleep is essential to help repair and restore many of the body’s functions. Lack of sleep can affect our immunity, leaving us more susceptible to illnesses including viruses. While we sleep the immune system releases proteins called cytokines which not only help us respond to stress but are also important for fighting infections and inflammation. I like to think of sleep as your shield against stress and it will help protect you.

So, make sure that looking after your personal health and wellbeing is a priority to keep you well and able to fight off this virus.

By Ca rol i ne Hu rley I.I.H.H.T. A RT( R eg) BECA L M ED W EL L BEI NG A N D M EDI SPA

How to look after your immune system is in the forefront of many people’s minds at the moment. Here are a few simple suggestions which may help you

Health and Beauty | STYLE

H O W T O S TAY F I T AT H O M E DURING LOCKDOWN Being able to venture outside for dai ly exercise means reg u lar wa l k ing, running or cycling is a g reat way to stay active ( just be sure to keep a distance of two metres away from other people). However, being out of routine can sometimes resu lt in you feeling less motivated to workout.

Live Zoom session, every Tuesday 6pm-7pm, £8 per class, Small Groups (limited space).

Energising Flow Class - A fun flow class that will energise body and mind with a guided savasana/relaxation to leave you feeling calm before bed.

Suitable for all levels, be prepared to challenge yourself, get moving and find time for you! Live Zoom session, Every Thursday 8pm-9pm, £5 per class.

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e’ve brought together a few suggestions to help keep you active whether that’s in the comfort of your own home or as part of a daily outdoor fitness routine.

Kim Murray – Exercise Physiologist and Athlete Facebook: KimFit, Twitter: @ KimFitBath, Instagram: @kimfitbath Kim has put together a low-intensity 5-10 minute home workout sequence, designed to be performed frequently throughout the day. The exercises are suitable for everyone; so don’t hesitate to get the whole household involved!

See page 84 to see the workout explained in full, or click here for the video clip.

Jenny Stewart – Yoga Teacher And Co-Founder, Balance + Glo Facebook: JennyStewartYoga, Instagram: @jennystewartyoga, YouTube: Jenny Stewart Yoga, Website: www.jennystewartyoga.co.uk

Jenny is offering the following live yoga classes via Zoom, as well as free classes for NHS staff and free 5-10 minute yoga flows via her YouTube channel.

Wake up Yoga Flow - Wake up every Tuesday with an energising flow session and get your body moving.

An hour session for those early birds (and before Joe Wicks!), perhaps before you start working from home to get the circulation going, awakening body and mind for a productive day ahead! Suitable for all levels. Live Zoom session, Every Tuesday 7.45am8.45am, £5 per class Pregnancy Yoga – Pregnancy Yoga is about maintaining a sense of physical and emotional wellbeing at this very important time rather than 'progressing' your practice, so the whole session will be tailored around this. Each session we will explore breathing techniques, pelvic floor work, adapting yoga postures and flow plus a guided savasana to allow you to find the most benefit from your practice.

Wake up Yoga Flow + Tea & Chat – A lovely wake up yoga flow on Sunday morning. Stay for a cuppa and chat afterwards if you fancy it – like a virtual brunch! Suitable for all levels.

Live Zoom session, Every Sunday 10am-11.15am, £5 per class.

Ventnor Botanic Garden – Britain’s Hottest Garden Facebook: Ventnor Botanic Garden, Twitter: @hottestgarden, Instagram: @hottest_garden, Website: www.botanic.co.uk Ventnor Botanic Gardens have 22 acres of beautiful open, outdoor space perfect for daily exercise whilst ensuring social distancing practices are adhered to. Take a peaceful walk, stay active and enjoy the beauty of spring. Annual memberships are available via the website or by calling 01983 855397.

John Cattle’s Skate Club – Skate Boarding Sessions Facebook: John Cattle’s Skate Club, Instagram: @jcskateclub John is providing a series of regular skateboarding tutorials for tricks you can do at home. Suitable for all abilities, giving everyone the ability to skate from toddlers to adults.

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S TAY A C T I V E AT H O M E Intimidated by Joe Wicks?

Spending too much time on the sofa and wondering where to start with an exercise routine? Kim Murray has the perfect low-intensity movement workout that everyone can benefit from

By K i m Mu r ray EX ERCISE PH YSIOLOGIST A N D ATH L ET E

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hen I was asked to include some homeexercise tips in this edition’s column my mind immediately went to which workout I should give you, what exercises, how many reps and sets, how to modify it easier or harder etc, etc.

As you can see, I have not provided a traditional workout for you to do at home. So, what changed? Well, I realised that what would be most beneficial for you to do during this extraordinary time we’re all going through would be to simply move, little and often.

During a time when we all have more stress than usual, for whatever reason, the last thing the body needs is to be put through a barrage of exhausting workouts that send our stress through

the roof. Now, I am not suggesting that regular exercise isn’t a good thing, because it is. However, I would advise you to incorporate some lower intensity work; maybe something mobility or strength-related, into your week as well as the more intense work.

What we should all be doing as a priority is focussing on breaking up sedentary behaviours i.e. sitting, with small bursts of movement. The following sequence will take 5-10 minutes and should be performed frequently throughout the day; aim for once every hour. The exercises are suitable for everyone, so don’t hesitate to get the whole household involved.

Doing these types of movements will go some way to offsetting the time spent sitting that is a problem in the current climate and hopefully give you mental as well as physical boost.

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Neck – stand up, with your arms by your side clench your fists. Drop chin to chest and then take chin to left shoulder. Return to chest and move to the right side. Complete five repetitions of these controlled half circles.

Shoulders – with straight arms, lift the shoulders to the ears. Lower slowly, thinking about moving the shoulders as far from the ears as possible.

Repeat five times. Do five shoulder circles in the backwards direction, stretching across the stretch as much as possible.

Standing cat cow – bend the knees and place the hands on your thighs.

Slowly arch the back and look up, pulling the shoulders back. Then round the spine and look down. Try to segment the spine vertebrae by vertebrae and keep it smooth.

4-point hip rotation – On your hands and knees lift one leg keeping it bent it at the knee. Try to keep the back flat and hips level. Move your knee out to the side, keeping the leg bent, back flat and hips level. Return to your start position. Repeat five times in each direction and then switch legs.

90:90 – Sit with your legs bent, leaning back slightly into your hands. Feet should be wider than hip width apart.

Slowly drop both legs to the right, when you’ve gone as far as you can return to the middle and go to the left.

Repeat 10 times.

Hamstring and hip sequence – Start standing, and fold in half so that your hands come to the floor (you can bend your legs!), hold for three seconds.

Step one leg back into a low lunge and pause for three seconds. From here return to the forward fold and slowly roll back up to standing. Repeat 2-3 times on each side.

Standing hip extension – Stand on one leg, using a worktop or chair to balance. Bend the stance leg slightly.

With the free leg, kick back using your glute muscle (your bottom!) to create the movement. Keep your back flat and think about squeezing your glute to wake it up after all the sitting.

Repeat 15-20 reps on each leg.

Facebook: KimFitSkeleton, Twitter: @kimfitbath, Instagram: @kimfitbath www.thekimfitway.com

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SELF-CARE

DURING LOCKDOWN Who would have thought that in this spring edition Style of Wight we would be writing about how to cope with what has become a potential national disaster, the COVID-19 pandemic?

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By K ieron Cooney COSM EDICA CL I N ICS

e have been distancing and following government advice to stay indoors to protect ourselves and our community by reducing the spread of the virus and helping the NHS cope with those ever-increasing numbers of afflicted patients.

Cosmedica Clinics remains temporarily closed, whilst Dr Kieron and Nurse Practitioner Vicky invest their energy and increased commitment to their NHS roles.

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We encourage you all to take care of your skin and body alongside your mental health during this protracted period of lockdown.

So, what can we all do...

Skin care Don’t forget to apply moisturiser and high factor SPF sun protection daily, especially if you are able to go for a daily walk, jog or cycle ride which is important for exercise. Our complete facial skin care range of medical and prescription strength creams is still available with free home delivery.

Diet Avoid snacks which can easily turn into binge eating during long hours of lockdown. If you get peckish try eating some fruit in place of cake or biscuits or chocolate. Keep meals to regular times.

Alcohol It is so easy to increase alcohol during the lockdown simply due to boredom. Create some house rules and don’t drink alcohol at all during the day. Ensure you limit intake to no more than one glass of wine, beer or

Health and Beauty | STYLE

a single shot of spirit per day to stay within the maximum safe weekly intake of 14 units per week. Avoid binge drinking.

Exercise Although we are all limited in the lockdown, try to exercise regularly both in the home and outside when you are allowed. Be creative indoors, use the stairs as a stepping regime, or lie on the floor and try sit ups, or just stand on the spot and try some stretching exercises. Exercise not only keeps us physically well but also has a very positive affect on our mood and sense of wellbeing. Check out the NHS approved website for more ideas.

Self-Care & Stress Management Set a limit on how much time you spend checking the news. We are bombarded with media reports of the virus and, if you are at home all of the time, it is so easy to have these reports feeding into our homes constantly. Only check the news from reliable sources once or twice a day.

Other ways you can manage your stress during this time include: Sleep – ensure you’re getting 6-8 hours of sleep a night. Don’t have afternoon naps and don’t stay in bed late in the morning. Try and regulate you sleep pattern into a routine.

Up your vitamin C intake – citrus fruits are the best way to boost your immune system.

Meditation – even three minutes of meditation a day can have positive effects on your health.

Light exercise – take a walk around the neighbourhood; fresh air and sunlight are great for your immune system and can increase your mood and decrease your anxiety levels.

Alternative methods to socialise – check in with friends via FaceTime, Zoom or other video chatting platforms or give them a call.

At-home hobbies to give your mind some respite from work – puzzles or just catching up on TV shows (avoiding news items).

If it’s all feeling a bit too overwhelming, it may be helpful to focus on what you are grateful for. Some people find it really therapeutic to make a daily “gratitude list” in order to build psychological resiliency.

Try guided apps and websites to help: Headspace - an app based around teaching mindfulness meditation principles to improve wellbeing. Headspace, is offering free subscriptions during the COVID-19 crisis.

Breathe: Deep breathing is a perfect reliever of anxiety. The 4-7-8 method, can promote a sense of calm when you feel out of control. The method involves breathing in for four seconds, holding for seven, and exhaling for eight, Mood - a web-based mood tracking and management platform.

Wellbeing Podcasts - a series of free audio podcasts to improve wellbeing, including guided relaxation, mindfulness and overcoming fear and anxiety) Sleepio - an app for sleep

management, combining cognitive behaviour principles and the latest in sleep research.

For more ideas and support maybe check out the official NHS website giving 10 top tips to help if you are struggling with anxiety about the current COVID-19 pandemic.

Do not let yourself slip into despair.

Remember that this pandemic has a beginning, middle and end and we are all on that journey together. It is looking as if we have crossed the midpoint of this journey.

Cosmedica Clinics is still open for telephone advice, support and even just to chat during this unique time in our lives and is happy to hear from anyone with any questions about this situation and we will do our best to help.

Stay safe and we look forward to seeing you again soon.

For more information visit our website at cosmedicaclinics.co.uk, email enquiries@cosmedicaclinics.co.uk or telephone 01983 566680 and ask to speak to Vicky.

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From the Style A rch ives - Issue 63

Rusty rambles

By Br yony Rust Photos Tom P ratt

Bryony Rust: mini-adventurer. Full of fresh air and covered in dirt is an Islander in search of adventure amongst the small corners and hidden stretches of our coastal county 88

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Out and About | STYLE

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hat’s the difference between a litterbug and a guerrilla artist?

Perhaps nothing more than intention.

Keri Smith defines guerrilla art as ‘anonymous work installed, performed or attached in public spaces, with the distinct purpose of affecting the world in a creative or thought-provoking way.’

It all sounds very grand. Really, we just wanted to send some love notes to our community and practise some random acts of kindness. To thank the place we’ve called home for the last twelve years and put out the kind of encouragement and reassurance that

we so often need ourselves. Everyone needs an occasional reminder to give themselves a little grace. How can we be kind to others if we beat ourselves up over the smallest of things?

On the day we folded our paper and scribbled our notes, it just so happened to be National Random Acts of Kindness Day. But I think we’re agreed that every day could and should inspire us towards random acts of kindness, right? I bet there are times you can recall helping someone with a heavy suitcase, stopping to say hello to someone sitting on the pavement, or giving a heartfelt smile to someone in tears.

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‘Everyone needs an occasional reminder to give themselves a little grace‘

This project was heartfelt, but we could only imagine who we were sending our love to, because we were leaving them for anyone to find. Our little note-smuggling safari took us to some favourite spots in our town, in search of small places to hide them.

Like an easter egg hunt in reverse.

It was fun to think about who might pick up our notes and we hoped they might land somewhere they could give someone a lift. Kinda nice how kindness makes the giver feel good too, no?! It seemed appropriate when our sandwich server paused in the making of my baguette to point out

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how the avocado she’d scooped out was in the shape of a heart.

Leaving love notes for strangers felt rather freeing. So different from those carefully constructed schoolday valentines, where so much is riding on how they’re received. We’ll never know what happens to these little paper hearts. We’re not attached to the outcome. They’re just little transient gifts of imperfection.

Modern life is hard and it feels good to spread tiny ripples of loving support, to be playful and irreverent. Perhaps some might class this as littering. But when so much of our visual landscape

Out and About | STYLE

is filled with corporate messaging, I’d like to tip the balance just a notch in the other direction. I ain’t selling anything. I just want to tell you I love you.

So, this spring, perhaps we can all be on the lookout for ways to extend a helping hand. Whether it’s a heavy suitcase or a seat on the bus, I hope more of my days present the opportunity for random acts of kindness and a few more shared smiles along the way.

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LOVE FOR

LOCKERS Great for home working, home schooling or even a bit of spring organising, Bayliss & Booth stock these super stylish storage lockers by Mustard

Click to shop The Skinny in Ocean

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The Lowdown in Blush White

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The Shorty in Mustard

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The Midi in Berry

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BRING IT BACK TO LIFE This idea revolves around a shed find: a 1940s dining room chair in original 80 year old condition A quick and easy transformation, no need to sand or undercoat - Just pop open the tin, roll up your sleeves and get painting!

The chair is marked with the CC41 Utility Mark from the world war II Utility furniture was furniture produced in the United Kingdom during and just after World War II, under a Government scheme which was designed to cope with shortages of raw materials and rationing of consumption.

Now it can have a new chapter in its life with a bit of attention and some expert guidance form Dig 4 Vintage in Ryde.

Sarah has taken a timed step by step series of pictures demonstrating the transformation of the historical dining chair from shed find to pride of place at the dinner table – a simple lockdown activity we can all now follow.

The paint colour is Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint “Lem Lem”

Dig For Vintage new website There is a new version of The Dig For Vintage website where all the products demonstrated can be purchased along with the complete Annie Sloan Chalk Paint range as well as selected items from the Dig For Vintage collection.

For more inspiration and to browse for online orders please visit digforvintage.co.uk

Quick coat of clear wax

First coat going straight on

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Recover seat with a bit of a vintage floral - this fabric was sourced from the collection at Dig For Vintage’s floral fabric mountain

From the Style A rch ives - Issue 58

Through the Keyhole

Just another new adventure

By A my Shepha rd Photog raphy Ol l ie Wi l k i nson-Av i s

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The cosy lounge with detailed beams and inglenook fireplace

A couple who have travelled the world recently embarked on their latest adventure, by relocating to the Isle of Wight

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aving lived in various places around the world between them, including France, Germany, Malta and different parts of England, Kay and Paul Evans missed the rolling countryside of Hampshire and decided to set up home on the Island in October 2018.

“Having lived and married in the Portsmouth area, the Isle of Wight was always on our radar,” said Kay. “But it wasn’t until we spent a winter on a house boat in Bembridge that we realised how much we liked it here.”

“We found the Island so charming in the winter time, so we knew we’d love it in the summer too. It was so quiet compared to the mainland - and tranquility was important to us.”

Kay and Paul are settling into their latest adventure in Roud

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The couple fell in love with a Grade II listed thatched cottage in the peaceful hamlet of Roud. With records dating back to the early 17th century, and period features which satisfied Kay’s love of history, Hose Rhodes Dickson had found them a great match.

Set in an idyllic country lane and surrounded by breathtaking farmland views, the cottage has three bedrooms upstairs, including a master bedroom with en-suite. A large but cosy lounge with inglenook fireplace provides the perfect place for the couple to unwind in the winter, while the rear garden room makes the ideal spot to enjoy a cup of coffee and a newspaper on a Sunday morning.

Kay tells us her research led her to the understanding that the property was built by a yeoman farming family by the name of Mumford. The property was originally called Mumford Cottage and is likely to have started life as two dwellings. It’s also believed the house was used as a base for Oliver Cromwell’s men in the 1600s.

Plenty of the property’s period features have been retained, including a beautiful stone mullion window in the dining room, two inglenook fireplaces, timber beams, latch doors, exposed stonework and flagstone floors. A bread oven found in the dining room tells us the Mumford family would

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A glimpse of the cottage’s rural setting is caught from every room

Traditional furniture built from natural materials complements the home’s country charm

‘It is believed the house was used as a base for Oliver Cromwell’s men in the 1600s’ have enjoyed home baked bread at the house around 400 years ago. Small details around the property, such as designs carved into the beams, suggest the original family was wealthy.

A garage complete with annexe was added in 2000, which offers overspill accommodation for guests, with a double bedroom and en-suite shower room, as well as a kitchenette on the ground floor.

“We loved this house because it had been well looked after, and was in good decorative order throughout,” said Kay. Kay, a talented artist and retired teacher, has a great interest in period properties and loves to spend time researching the history of houses they’ve purchased.

Paul had taken early retirement in 1994, after spending 21 years at global technology company, IBM. He’d also sat on Fareham Magistrates Bench for six years. Together, the couple set up K2 Computer Solutions, a successful company which they ran together for seven years.

“Running our own company just became too much - we were

knackered,” said Paul. “One day, we decided we just didn’t need to do it anymore, so we sold our house and went to France.”

The couple had spotted an area of Southern France on television show, A Place in the Sun and decided this would be their next big adventure.

Le Jouvenal, a 17th century property, was situated near the picturesque village of Villeneuve-sur-Vere. The couple carefully restored the property and adjoining barn to a high standard, retaining its character and ancient features, such as its original beams and lime mortar interior.

“Incredibly, the lime mortar used in the property in Roud is exactly the same as that used in France,” Paul told us.

Kay’s father was in the military, so the couple were pleased to donate the adjoining property of their France home to recovering soldiers for two weeks of every year.

Over the years, Kay has offered art courses for beginners, put on charity concerts for Help for Heroes and travelled the world exhibiting her beautiful art.

Paul has found relaxation through

exercise, and has been an avid runner for more than forty years. No stranger to art himself, Paul produced a piece of work for a national art competition which depicted Jesus Christ - and was thrilled to win tickets to the 1972 production of Jesus Christ Superstar, the first of its kind.

“We’ve enjoyed all the things we’ve done and moving to the Isle of Wight is just another new adventure,” said Kay. “We are absolutely blessed with our new neighbours. Roud is tiny and we are still getting to know the area, but we have already found a few places we like to visit. We love The Taverners, No.64, Dell Café and The Lifeboat.”

Kay has taken up ballet at the Quay Arts, which has meant meeting lots of new people, while Paul is enjoying discovering new places to run six or seven times a week. “The Island is the hardest terrain I’ve been running on,” he told us.

Paul’s depiction of Jesus has since been praised by Ventnor Winter Gardens, which is currently running its own production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Paul and Kay have been given the opportunity to watch the show and meet the cast with Paul’s award-winning piece of art.

The couple are now looking forward to enjoying their first summer in their new home. Little hints of their days in France are already noticeable as you walk through the big, beautiful entrance hall. “It’s nice to be able to put our own stamp on the house,” said Kay.

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Scandi I N S P I R AT I O N

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Victoria of Long Lane Carpets & Flooring has been sourcing a dose of optimism with light-filled living spaces - creating calm, comfy, chilled-out spaces to relax in For this season the ever-popular Scandi look is layered up with different textures to give the look depth –. It’s all about making our homes a safe, inviting space to rest and regenerate. Creating a calm yet uplifting space, to retreat and switch off from the world outside Trade bold and bright for soft and neutral and go for pared-back pieces and considered choices. This element of more thoughtful home choices comes from the trend for being aware of sustainability.

Where to use it This look works in any setting, whether it’s a rustic kitchen or a small modern bathroom, but it’s especially at home in a living room or bedroom, paired with a dark accent colour.

Achieving this look We’re drawn to crafted, artisan style, raw materials and unrefined finishes and prefer to invest in quality pieces rather than quick-fix buys. Simple, understated style and honest, unfussy pieces but still want a home that feels relaxed and comfortable rather than overly minimalist. Textures and tactile qualities are taking the place of bold colours for adding interest.

The colour palette Shift away from cool grey, with more yellow based neutrals. Embrace warm neutrals, from oatmeal and natural buff. Beige makes a comeback as the perfect base colour to build upon.

Accent colours are still soft, think the new Dulux Colour of the Year 2020, Tranquil Dawn.

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Stripped floors and high ceilings create a sense of space

Contemporary classic TWYNHAM, EAST COWES

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his three-bedroom family home is in a fantastic location within a short stroll of the local seafront, town and Red Funnel ferry to Southampton, making it brilliant for commuters.

'Twynham' has been refurbished throughout by the present owners, whilst still retaining some of the original features which include stripped floorboards, high ceilings, picture rails and windows.

The open plan sitting/dining room

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An up-to-date finish that stays faithful to the period makes this family home a real contender

is the perfect place to unwind and nothing quite creates ambiance on a cold winter’s day like the warmth of a wood burner. There are two newly fitted shower rooms, a gorgeous kitchen, three generous double bedrooms and a fully boarded and insulated loft with Velux window giving amazing views of the Solent.

The garden has been carefully redesigned and landscaped with the added benefit of a recently built garden office. In addition to driveway parking at the front of the property for two vehicles, at the bottom of the garden

Super style in a great location

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Clever use of tiling and natural materials makes this a standout kitchen

The garden office is a rarely found extra feature

there is the garage and next to that a parking space, which is large enough to accommodate a small campervan. This stylish property really needs to be seen to appreciate all it has to offer, and this can be done via a virtual tour online.

The low-maintenance garden provides an attractive setting

Viewings with Waterside Properties, Cowes on 01983 300111

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Edwardian elegance never goes out of style

Edwardian elegance V I C T O R I A AV E N U E , S H A N K L I N

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his charming property is located in a prime residential area accessible to all Shanklin’s local amenities including shops, theatre, schools and railway station.

Edwardian period features include high ceilings, original picture rails and cornices, plus deep skirtings, panelled doors and sash windows. There are two large reception rooms that are perfect for entertaining, with French doors opening to a large south facing terrace and steps up to the gardens.

Privacy is not a problem, as the property is screened from the road by mature hedging. The house is approached over a long gravelled driveway leading to a large detached garage and parking area. The wellpresented accommodation also includes a spacious reception hall with wood burning stove, four bedrooms, a fitted kitchen and separate breakfast

room, plus some useful ground floor storage rooms.

Shanklin’s traditional seaside charm, glorious long sandy beach set against a backdrop of dramatic sandstone cliffs and varied village amenities, plus the quaint Old Village, make it a popular choice. High speed mainland links can be accessed via the local train network.

The large dining room continues the period theme

Extensive gardens and mature trees provide a suitable setting for this grand residence

Viewings with Hose Rhodes Dickson Country Homes, Newport on 01983 538090

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Live in style in this imposing residence with mature gardens

An imposing hallway sets the tone for the generous accommodation

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Step into history

K N I G H T S FA R M , B R I D D L E S F O R D

If space and tranquillity are on your wishlist, Knights Farm should be on your shortlist

Knights Farm dates back to the 14th century and makes for a delightful rural retreat

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his rural farmstead benefits from an attractive, secluded location surrounded by fields and with wonderful country views including towards The Solent. The tranquil location belies its good access to Newport, Ryde and mainland ferry links.

Spacious rooms are still cosy

The traditional farmhouse kitchen

There are excellent country walks directly accessible from the house, well away from main roads with areas of ancient woodland attracting a wide array of wildlife.

Once a part of the Briddlesford Estate, there are records of Knights Farm as far back as 1378. The period farmhouse provides versatile accommodation that has been well-maintained and is not listed. In 2016 the house was re-roofed and there is wood-effect UPVC framed double glazed windows and doors throughout. A 4kw solar PV system is also installed.

Viewings with Spence Willard, Cowes on 01983 200880

Generous and well-maintained accommodation are part of this property’s attraction

A rural setting with Solent views make this a highly desirable home

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Gardenalia Spending more time in the garden is even more stylish with these superb collections from Bayliss and Booth – they have even helped you shop the look with additional accessories

Duo Set garden lounger with long glass top coffee table £350

Trio Set two chairs and occasional glass topside table £225

Black Bistro Set - Aluminium frame with glass top table choose from a two chair combination £295 for the set, or table plus 4 chairs. Stripe Jug, 25cm £25 each. Stripe Planter small £10 large £12.50. Oval Mustard Planters Large (26 x 15cm) £18, medium (22 x 12cm) £12

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Seasonal gardening ‘Tender is the night’, crooned Andy Williams. He was completely wrong. The days may be warmer – they’re certainly longer – but the marauding frost is still out to get your plants.

So just think the way your garden thinks. If you need to put on a fleece in the evening, chances are it does too.

Think ahead

Beat the weeds

Spring bulbs

Anticipate a drought so collect the rain. A water butt evades the tick tick of the water meter. Buy two if you’ve got room.

Take them on now, while the soil is soft. With your fork seek out the white roots of bindweed – to quote George Bush Jnr, they can run but they can’t hide. Make sure you get every little bit or they’ll start a new insurrection when your back is turned. Don’t let the familiarity of the dandelion induce complacency – that taproot won’t get any easier to remove. Hoeing, often, will deal with the less damaging invaders.

Before you forget what you didn’t like about this year’s show, lift and divide your overcrowded daffodils. Write down on your kitchen calendar what you really wished had been in your garden so you’re ready to plant in October.

Bedding in Think colour and plant your summer bedding plants for when the weather warms. Think thrift and take cuttings: today’s spindles could be tomorrow’s statements in your garden.

Tall and leggy Sow hollyhocks and delphiniums in pots or in the soil for that breezy, timeless cottage garden feel.

Gloves New season, new gloves is what I always say. Tough ones that tackle brambles.

L aw n Don’t think of it as a chore but a chance to chill. Mow every week to keep the lawn down. Remove weeds before they get established.

Greenhouse Your tender plants need to face the real world so open vents on warmer days. Deter beetle grubs before they get established.

Ve g e t a b l e s Seek plants and advice from local farmers and local markets. Buy tomatoes for their flavour not their fecundity. By June let children eat salad leaves torn from the plant.

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LIFE IN LOCKDOWN

STRANGE TIMES INDEED!

By Pau l Ja mes Ma rsha l l COTTAGE CA N I N ES

By Sha ron a nd Dav id Groves PETS W ITH H A RT

I’m writing this in the midst of the lockdown and after the van has just gone out fully laden with items for all your lovely pets!

Newport seems so strange right now, with hardly any of us able to stay open, but there do seem to be an awful lot of dogs giving their owners their hour’s exercise per day... how many dogs are going out multiple times, I wonder?!

It is rather worrying though, as many of you are now at home full time, along with your children, your dog has suddenly got you at their beck and call all the time. It is important to give them some time on their own, after all that is what they are used to, if you’re usually at work and the children at school. They will get such a shock when they are suddenly left alone again.

Life in lockdown is strange enough for us humans and, whilst our pets are not concerned with the news, they will be very aware of the change of circumstances at home. This may be because the family is all home together, because there is more noise and stress or indeed because their normal exercise routine has been lost.

This may result in some dogs showing their stress. Paul remains working from home during this period and is able to advise through online contact so if you do have a question visit his website and send him an email.

However, there is plenty we can do to help everyone stay safe during this time Firstly, vary your dog’s daily routine to include their walk, some playtime with you indoors or in the garden, some mental stimulation such as scent games (find the kibble!) and activities such as regular grooming.

Remember, dogs need lots of sleep during the day which, with everyone at home, they may not be getting (which can mean you will have an over-stimulated over-tired dog) so after the play/walk session encourage them to settle somewhere quiet with a lick or chew toy and make sure everyone leaves them alone.

It is important too to remember that this stressful period of our lives will end and so prepare your dog for that too.

To prevent separation anxiety, leave them alone when you do essential food shops. Spend time in different rooms to encourage independence and use self-reinforcing activity toys they can play with and enjoy on their own (chews/lick mats/treat balls/Kongs).

Stay safe everyone and see you all in the summer.

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Perhaps take one of your exercise sessions without them and perhaps, as lockdown starts to get a bit relaxed, ease them back into being on their own. You could always give them an enrichment toy, such as a stuffed Kong or a Likimat in a separate space on their own too, just to give them down time. Puppies in particular are going to find life difficult when you have to start back to work; it might be worth starting to enquire about day-care places or walkers and socialisation classes for as soon as lockdown is lifted.

Don’t worry too much about trying to do some home haircuts. If your dog needs it, just trim judiciously, your groomer will be able to sort it out later, just make sure your dog is comfortable!

I know quite a few of you have had new pets too, like hamsters, guinea pigs, budgies, kittens and puppies, etc.

This has been lovely while you have all been off and has given you the time to get to know them and settle them right in.

Enjoy all your wonderful pets everyone and stay safe and well. Keep supporting all your lovely local independent pet shops, most of us offer free Island-wide delivery too!

C O U L D T H I S B E A G R E AT T I M E T O S TA RT Y O U R O W N BUSINESS?

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ast recessions, whilst not a predictor of future outcomes, certainly provide a useful point of reference and insights into what the future holds, at least for some reading this article. At times of recession and economic distress we see a rise in the number of start-up businesses. Whether a wakeup call to take control of your future, a newfound thirst for working more independently that you now want to quench, redundancy to provide the motivation (and funds) to start the business you always dreamt of, or the need to start on your own journey as you can’t find other employment, the fact is that we will see startups appear on an increasingly larger scale over the months and year ahead.

It is important to note that the key factors which determine whether a start-up will succeed or fail are based more on the founder and their ability to solve a problem for a paying customer, rather than wider macroeconomic trends. Recessions create new problems, and the ‘new norm’ offers as yet unexploited opportunities - entrepreneurs are problem-solvers and opportunists at heart.

Both Apple and Microsoft were founded during the deep recessionary period of the midseventies.

Products and services are cheaper during recessions. Smart entrepreneurs take advantage of this. Customers are also looking to save money and start-ups, with their low cost base, become very attractive - competing on price to win more business and rapidly drive their growth.

Even during a recession, investment is still available, especially from angel investors often looking for alternative places to allocate their money outside of conventional and volatile public markets. Smart investors can be particularly interested in funding promising new business ventures during downturns. Once markets become more stable, traditional investors will be hungry to find new opportunities. Entrepreneurs who have proven themselves through these lean and unprecedented times present a very convincing business case, just at the time when they are ready to scale and seek new investment.

By Da le Howa r t h BUSI N ESS M EN TOR , SPEA K ER A N D TR A I N ER

Whilst the economic implications are still uncertain, it is only reasonable to assume that after the economic shutdown the coronavirus has caused, a recession will follow. The signs are pretty clear and the writing is certainly on the wall. Never before, aside from wartime, have whole sectors of commerce and industry closed down so swiftly and for so long.

With grants and loans more widespread than ever before from a government, and independent organisations working to support and drive the economy, this could mark a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs in the new norm.

By their very nature, start-ups are lean and agile, better placed to identify and capture opportunity in their chosen market. As a result, they are able to navigate rapid changes in the economy. This is something which leaves larger incumbents especially vulnerable during recessions. An agile start-up can exploit this period of uncertainty and turmoil to identify weaknesses in its larger entrenched competitors, and position themselves to take full advantage of any opportunities to deliver where competitors cannot or fail to adjust in time.

Dale Howarth is an acclaimed business speaker, mentor and trainer; working with individuals and companies to make the business leaders and businesses successes of tomorrow. To find out more visit www.dalehowarth.com.

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ith the coming into force of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions (England)) Regulations 2020, the Government have, in effect, banned all social events including weddings.

Inevitably, this will mean that any weddings that are booked during the period of the ban will be cancelled. Obviously, this will be very unhappy news for couples who are due to wed, and likely to cause significant anxiety and couples will want to know their legal position in respect of arrangements that they have made.

The first step that should be taken, depending upon the nature of the event that has been arranged, is to speak to whichever venue is hosting the wedding and/or the reception. If you can simply push things back, then it may well be that you can agree amicable terms without costing any money.

If you are unable to agree something with your host, then you will need to consider what your contract has to say. The following points apply: • You should see whether there is a termination/ cancellation clause which will allow either party to cancel. If you are simply allowed to cancel your contract without penalty to you, then you may want to do so.

• Cancellation may cause a difficulty with regard to any deposit that has been paid. As a wedding couple, you will be defined as a “consumer” under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 and this will give you significant protections if you get into an argument with your host. In particular, the Consumer Rights Act sets out the types of contract clauses that may be considered unfair and that includes where a “disproportionately high” sum has to be paid in compensation following a cancellation. This may include high deposits, regardless of the standard terms

that you have agreed/signed with your host.

Consequently, if there is an argument about a deposit, your host is only likely to be able to keep monies that are reasonably needed to cover its net costs and they would need to give you a breakdown in respect of the same.

• You may want to see if there is a “force majeure” clause in your contract. This is the clause in a contract that allows a party to either suspend or terminate their obligations when circumstances beyond their control arise, making performance either impossible, illegal or inadvisable. You would need to see whether the specific wording of the clause covers the Coronavirus epidemic and that the current pandemic falls within the definition. This may allow you to terminate the contract regardless of any other termination clause.

• You may finally want to consider whether the contract has been “frustrated” (in the absence of a force majeure clause). Frustration is a contract law concept which, if applicable, allows a party to be discharged from its contractual obligations in the event that a change in circumstances makes it commercially or physically impossible to perform the contract or to make performance of the contract very different to what it would have been. Although the Courts are generally reluctant to find that a contract has been frustrated, the current pandemic may give you grounds to say that your wedding contract is.

If this applies, it will allow recovery of monies paid under the contract before it was discharged but subject to an allowance, at the Court’s discretion, for any expenses incurred by the other party.

If all the above fail or in any event you may want to consider whether you have an insurance policy which will cover your loss in the event of cancellation or termination.

Lee Peckham is a director of Roach Pittis Solicitors, he specialises in litigation. www.roachpittis.co.uk

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By Lee Peck ha m DI RECTOR , ROACH PITTIS

W E D D I N G S – W H AT C A N I D O N O W T H AT M Y W E D D I N G HAS BEEN CANCELLED DUE TO C O R O N AV I R U S ?

D E S P E R AT E T I M E S S H O U L D N ’ T M E A N D E S P E R AT E M E A S U R E S

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he shrinking of the UK economy and the volatility of the markets have made headlines, which has undoubtedly increased our collective anxiety about the effect of COVID-19 and how it will all be resolved – particularly regarding our jobs and incomes and how to ensure we survive the storm.

It might be tempting to look at markets falling, along with the ensuing volatility, and think: ‘I could do that’. But the risk to investors who are not advised is huge: if your money is tight now and you’re thinking you might ‘play’ the market to help boost your coffers, then it’s almost oddson you’ll lose.

The parallel between gambling and investing is often made but, as we’ve often explained, there are actually huge differences. Individuals jumping into volatile markets at times such as this is an example of when ‘investing’ gets put in the ‘gambling’ column. This is a world away from those investors who have taken qualified advice and a long-term view of their money management.

A key finding in a 2018 survey by Legg Mason Global Investment was that ‘combining their

By Ben R ouse ROUSE LTD

With the UK in lockdown and incomes falling, desperation can make its way into our thought process. While this is a perfectly normal behaviour pattern it’s not the route to guaranteed success, particularly where our money is concerned

own personal knowledge with professional advice gives investors a significant advantage’.

The 2018 Legg Mason survey was conducted between July and August and across 17 countries and involved 16,810 investors.

It also found that advised investors have clear long-term goals because they have a financial plan that reflects their attitude to risk. Planning helps ensure they stay invested through volatile periods rather than being frightened out of their investments as a result of short-term market turbulence.

As well as giving the investor confidence in their approach, a qualified financial planner can help an investor see the wider picture. Being given the tools to take a measured approach means an advised investor is better able to remove emotion from their investment decisions and are therefore more likely to stay on track to reach their investment goals.

These are very strange times so it’s more important than ever to take a calm approach to decisions regarding your money.

This will pass – and we’re with you every step of the way.

Rouse Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

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The Seven Lockdown Wonders of the Isle of Wight

By La d y Penelope She’s t he et iquette ex per t you a l l k now a nd love, but now t hat ou r Isla nd i s i n lockdow n, La d y P ha s some “ wonder” f u l a dv ice Once upon a ti me, postca rds wou ld procla i m t he ‘Seven Wonders of t he Isle of Wi g ht.’

It wa s a rat her twee concept t hat wou ld va r y f rom postca rd to postca rd, depend i n g on t he aut hor. So i n t hese ti mes of no tou r ism due to t he Cov id 19 lockdow n, a nd t he loca l a n i mosity to t he idea of a ny hol iday ma kers da r i n g to set foot on ou r Isla nd, I’ve pu l led toget her my favou r ite ‘Seven Wonders’ a nd rei nvented t hem for you r delectation. A f ter a l l we wa nt ever yone to see ou r beauti f u l Isla nd, a nd to revel i n its wonders. We just don’t wa nt t hem over here r i g ht now. Or i n t he foreseeable f utu re it seems...

Ryde, where you wa l k. But not now.

Not even i f you h ave got a r uddy t icket. Don’t r ide here or wa l k here.

A nd def i n itely don’t sw i m. Get lost.

styleofwight.co.uk

New por t, you ca n not bott le.

Or d r i n k. Or d r i n k i n. Or d r i n k por t i n. A nd it’s not new eit her. So why come?

St ay at home. A nd d r i n k you r bloody por t t here.

Cowes you ca n not m i l k. Or sa i l i n for t h at matter. Even i n a sma l l d i n g y. Don’t be tempted. Sl i n g you r hook.

#theisleofwightisclosednowcomebacklater 112

Need les you ca n not t h rea d.

Or sa i l a rou nd. Or t a ke t he bleed i n’ ch a i rl i f t dow n to t he bea ch to see. So don’t even t h i n k about it.

New tow n, wh ich i s t he oldest tow n on t he Isla nd.

But it’s closed. More closed t h a n u sua l a nd t h at’s say i n g somet h i n g. It’s completely closed. Even to bi rd watchers. So pi ss of f.

F reshwater you ca n not d r i n k because t he water i s sa lty a nd u nd r i n k able - it’s t he r uddy sea f fs. But don’t even t h i n k about sw i m m i n g i n it or su r f i n g on it. Sod of f.

Vent nor Dow n, wh ich you go up a s it’s ver y h i g h. It’s a l most a mou nt a i n i n fa ct. But t h at doesn’t mea n you ca n cl i mb it.

It’s out of bou nd s. Bu gger of f.

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