Style of Wight 69 March and April 2021 by Style of Wight

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 ISSUE 69 MARCH / APRIL 2021

o t n i p i Sk pring s

PA G E FA M I LY GUIDE

STYLE SPEAKS T O C H R I S PA C K H A M

BELONGING: OUR COUNTRYSIDE COMMUNITY

lifestyle

fashion

health

beauty

food

home

events

art

L I F E S T Y L E

STEP INTO SPRING WITH STYLE AT ACACIA BAY

Natural jute, bamboo and hessian home lighting, unique wall art and stylish home furnishings available now.

Opening Hours Tuesday - Saturday 10am - 5pm 14 -16 High Street, Shanklin, PO376LB | Te l : 0 7 9 5 6 3 5 1 3 4 1

@ a ca c i a b a y i ow | a c a c i a b a y i ow. co . u k

Beach House Ventnor £700,000 3 | EPC C Located in the bay at Ventnor with stunning architectural design, sea views, an elevated beach location and immaculate presentation. This home enjoys a bespoke kitchen, a southerly sun terrace and parking for several cars, finished to an exceptionally high standard throughout and is offered without an onward chain.

Maranatha Ventnor £775,000 4 | EPC E South facing and enjoying a spectacular view of the English Channel. Situated in the soughtafter village of St Lawrence, this four bedroom home nestles into the cliff in a tucked away location. Rearranged with a new sociable open plan formation to the ground floor, this family home boasts three bathrooms, ambient lighting, utility room and detached garage.

Our London office is at 21 Park Lane, Mayfair and guarantees our properties are exposed to a vibrant national and international markets.

CLASSIC

CONTEMPORARY

COASTAL

Rillfield House Whiteley Bank £1,395,000 4 | EPC C Set within a rural location and accessed by a private lane, Rillfield House enjoys far reaching countryside vistas across its beautifully landscaped grounds of approx.2 acres. The main home is an attractive 4 bedroom property with study which is offered in immaculate decorative order. Adjoining the property is a 4 bed self-contained annexe.

The Willows Arreton £825,000 5 | EPC D Sitting in approximately four acres and enjoying countryside views over the garden and land beyond, this home boasts a one bedroom annexe with conservatory attached to the main property. Very recently refurbished including a newly fitted kitchen, there is gas central heating and double glazing throughout, driveway parking and double width garage.

Newport 01983 538090

Ryde 01983 617640

Bembridge 01983 875000

More available on Rightmove, OnTheMarket.com and www.hrdthecollection.co.uk

A small selection of homes sold in 2020

Cowes

Gurnard

East Cowes

Wootton Creek

Cowes

Appley

We are looking for more beautiful homes to sell after a fantastic 2020. Free no obligation market appraisals.

Freshwater Bay

Shanklin

Cowes

Gurnard

Island Harbour

Cowes

www.watersideproperties.com

Lynda Blenkinsop

Paul Booker

Georgie McCarthy

T | 01983 300111 Cowes

Guide Price

£399,950

Cowes

Guide Price

£285,000

Modern 4 bedroom townhouse with allocated parking. Arranged over 3 floors including a sitting room with balcony. Rear garden with sun deck.

Cowes

Stunning 3 bedroom apartment with large courtyard garden and secure undercroft parking. Located in a superb area in Cowes within easy walking distance to town and the beach.

Cowes

Guide Price

£595,000

Guide Price

£495,000

Beautifully renovated townhouse just a short stroll to the town centre, marina and parade. Open plan kitchen/dining room, landscaped garden and parking for 2 large cars.

Cowes

From

£575,000

Fantastically located 3 storey townhouse on the waterfront with 2 balconies. Easy walking distance to town centre and marina. Allocated parking, share of pontoon. Chain free.

East Cowes

Fabulous detached 5/6 bedroom family home with open plan living. Large sunny rear garden backing onto open park land. Plenty of off road parking and walking distance to local shops and schools.

Guide Price

£485,000

Brand new home situated in a quiet cul de sac by the River Medina. Arranged over 3 floors offering 4/5 bedrooms. Open plan living area with balcony. Garage and off road parking.

Binstead

Guide Price £750,000 Located in a convenient and beautiful coastal area, an impressive four bedroom residence refurbished to a high standard, with a path to the beach. EPC Rating F. Cowes Office: (01983) 200880

Brighstone

Merstone

A handsome five bedroom family home. With detached double garage and extensive gardens, this home offers substantial family accommodation. EPC Rating B.

A delightful period three bedroom farmhouse set within the village with a mature west facing garden and country views. EPC Rating F.

Cowes Office: (01983) 200880

Guide Price £745,000

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Cowes | Yarmouth | Bembridge | Freshwater | London www.spencewillard.co.uk 01983 200880 https://www.spencewillard.co.uk https://www.spencewillard.co.uk

Guide Price £489,000

located in a quiet location with sea hello@spencewillard.co.uk

views, a short walk from the beach hello@spencewillard.co.uk hello@spencewillard.co.uk 01983 200880 and sailing club.

Bembridge £2,000pcm

Yarmouth £4,000pcm

T LE

Spence Willard Lettings & Property Management

Cowes £1,700pcm

Properties urgently required for good quality applicants wanting to move in the coming weeks

We have a large portfolio of fully managed properties across the Island, from apartments to country homes and new build developments

Brook £950pcm

Yarmouth £1,450pcm

LE T

A competitive fee structure and package of services available, tailored to best suit an individual landlord’s needs

Brighstone £900pcm

Freshwater £895pcm

Bembridge £840pcm

Bembridge Office: (01983) 873000

lettings@spencewillard.co.uk | 01983 761005

www.spencewillard.co.uk @spencewillard @spencewillardiw

https://www.facebook.com/spencewillard/ https://www.facebook.com/spencewillard/ https://www.facebook.com/spencewillard/

https://www.instagram.com/spencewillardiw/ https://www.instagram.com/spencewillardiw/ https://www.instagram.com/spencewillardiw/

Cowes Office 01983 200880

March and Associated with April 2021

Find The Pieces That Make A House A Home

This & ThaT Our collection of furniture and accessories offer inspiration for every single room in your home. Whatever life throws at you, if you’ve got somewhere that feels homely - somewhere loved and lived - you’ll have a place of your own telephone: 01983 612 152 email: thisandthatseaview@aol.com web thisandthatseaview.co.uk Address: 1 Pier Road Seaview Isle Of Wight PO34-5BL

Open Monday to Saturday 9.00am - 5.30pm 34, Union Street, Ryde PO33 2LE Tel. 01983 562570 www.gibbsandgurnell.co.uk

Cover Illustration by Verity May Design

Editor Christian Warren editor@styleofwight.co.uk

Note from the Editor

Deputy Editor Emma Elobeid features@styleofwight.co.uk

A sense of belonging is something we all crave: a warmth resonating from within; a sense of satisfaction from a hard day’s work; a feeling of pride and purpose. Belonging starts with ourselves but is also greater than ourselves; it has layers. As an Island and as Islanders, we are collectively connected to what Charlotte Corney (page 18) calls “this piece of rock”. We have made it through this past year together, and now – with spring in our hearts and our steps – we are ready to turn our faces to the sun and Walk the Wight (page 17) once more, together.

Sub Editor Helen Hopper Contributors Jo Macaulay, Dale Howarth, Kim Murray, Georgia Newman

Sales Christian Warren sales@styleofwight.co.uk

This spring edition is a real celebration of life. As our Island landscape – rolling green hills, blossoming hedgerows of blackthorn – awakens and stretches skyward, we speak to the farmers, smallholders and livestock rearers on what it means to live, work, and belong to the land and animals they care for (page 21). Excitingly, we also talk to King of Spring himself – wildlife conservationist Chris Packham – on dormice, zombies, and feeling truly at home in the woods (page 114). Plus, the annual Style of Wight family guide (page 78) is back for its second year, brimming with Easter activities, creative inspiration, and rainbowtinted joy.

Distribution office@styleofwight.co.uk 01983 861007

As we stride into spring with optimism for a new kind of future – in which we are more connected with our Island and each other – we hope that Style of Wight continues to be a place where you know you belong.

Design Laura Craven Photography Christian Warren, Timi Eross, Julian Winslow, Charlotte Corney

Supported by Acclaim Logistics 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

Christian Warren

Get in touch

8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight PO38 1EJ 01983 861007 www.styleofwight.co.uk

At the time of going to press we are seeing changes to regulations and social behaviour guidelines due to Covid-19. Some of the content in this magazine was committed and published prior to this guidance being in place.

March and April 2021

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Access Control Intruder Alarms Fire Protection Keyholding

Contents

Issue 69: March and April 2021

Regulars

Style picks: a few of our favourite spring things

Art

Style spectrum: Sienna Anderson – photos of wildness and wonder

Charity and community: The Way Forward Programme

Dazzle & Disrupt: with Georgia Newman, Quay Arts

17 Walk the Wight with Mountbatten

Glimpses, views, moments: with James Lord Art and Design

Wild Lines: we speak to wildlife conservation artist Jen Parker

Behind the cover: with designer and illustrator Verity Godwin

Interview: Four rural families with a head for early mornings, thirst for fresh air, and satisfaction from living and working with the animals in their care

People with style: Richard McGee and Lesley Cornwall – Acacia Bay

114 Style speaks: Chris Packham

Features

Wild hearts belong here: with the Isle of Wight Zoo

Tribe and Tide: Navigating Island family life

Puppy training tips: with dog behaviourist Paul James Marshall

Hurst: how it all began – the history & heritage behind this much-revered Island brand

Spring fashion: with Visual Impact

The Style of Wight Family Guide: a happy collection of things to make, read, spot and buy

Children’s Writing Competition: inspiration and tips

44 Photography competition: Belonging 45

Spring book reviews: with Medina Bookshop

Poetry: Little Island by Liv Graves

Food

Eggs are only the beginning: our favourite better-than-boiled Spring recipes

54 Green Island Veg Economy (GIVE): we talk to founder Holly Maslen 59

Easter recipe: herb-crusted rack of lamb, with Isle of Wight Meat Co.

Seasonal vegetable: Mustard greens, with Living Larder

Cocktail: slide into spring with a Singapore Sling, with Mermaid Gin

Health and Beauty

Fresh start: with Caroline Hurley

Exercise classes: with Kim Murray

Home

Spring-spiration: get inspired by nature and roused by wildlife

Retro revival: with Long Lane Flooring

100 Building a sense of belonging: with Rachel Savage, Interior Designer

Business

107 Changing lives for the better: with Ben Rouse, Rouse Ltd 109 Five reasons why you should update your will: with Lee Peckham, Roach Pittis 110 You are not alone: with Hannah Lisseter, Glanvilles 111 The future is bright: with Marnie Janaway 113 Pivoting – an act of desperation?: with Dale Howarth

40 March and April 2021

Bumblebee duck feather cushion The mighty British Bumblebee – or ‘Dumbledore’, in Isle of Wight dialect – printed on natural canvas. £36, Verity May Design Instagram: @veritymaydesign

Style tyle picks A few of our favourite spring things – guaranteed to turn heavy cloudbursts into lemony sunshine as quickly as April showers turn to blue skies

Vintage egg cosies Crocheted chicklets that conjure up dreams of new beginnings, birdsong and breakfast in bed. £12, Dig for Vintage, Ryde Instagram: @dig_for_vintage

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Wall-mounted sculpture These handsome highland cattle are handcrafted from wicker and rattan, set on a wooden plaque. From £95, Bayliss and Booth, Wootton Instagram: @baylissandbooth

A5 notebook For shopping list scrawling and save-the-world scribbling: this eco-friendly pad is perfect for people who are passionate about the natural world. £8, Wild Lines Instagram: @wildlines.art

Cotton beeswax food wraps

Paisley print blouse Our happy shirt: pretty blue and gold with a hint of glitz in a relaxed spring fit.

Large enough to cover even the most magnificently overrisen thick-crusted sourdough. £15, Wight Apothecary Instagram: @wightapothecary

£80, Visual Impact, Newport Instagram: @visualimpactiow

Forlife teapot The only gear we need for brewing the perfect cup of Island blended loose leaf tea. £28, Island Roasted Pet portraits

Instagram: @islandroasted

Your furry family captured in full character with soft watercolour layers and fine pencil detail. From £35, Chloe Alexandra Studios Instagram: @chloealexandrastudios

March and April 2021

STYLE | Community

FUNDING THE WAY FORWARD Behind the smart, sliding doors of a building in Newport’s Dodnor Industrial Estate, a warm and inclusive community exists where people with learning disabilities receive the support and skills needed to grow their confidence and live independently

‘The new kitchen is a great help in encouraging the independence and self-worth of our customers’ “Our clients love being able to cook for themselves and others. The new kitchen is a great help in encouraging the independence and self-worth of our customers,” said Tracey Hill, Chief Executive at The Way Forward. “As well as the funding, we also receive help from Island Roads with a dedicated member of staff to help with the projects. Our experience with the foundation has been hugely positive and we are very grateful for their support,” said Tracey. Foundation Way Forward -: Lucy Dreyer and Tracey Hill (Way Forward Programme) and Samantha O’Rourke (Island Roads/Isle of Wight Foundation)

his thriving community is The Way Forward Programme, part of the Isle of Wight-based charity Osel Enterprises which was established in 1988 to provide training and employment for people with disabilities and autism. The Way Forward’s base is a

welcoming day centre, providing community support, training and employment for up to 100 customers. The centre has evolved over the years to provide a flexible space with a wide range of facilities, fully accessible to allow people with mobility issues and visual impairments to engage in varied activities – from art and dance to formal qualifications. More recently it has been able to adapt and improve its kitchen facilities thanks to a grant from the Isle of Wight Foundation, a grant-giving organisation run by Island Roads. The funding transformed the kitchen into a fully accessible space, allowing clients and staff to prepare simple meals independently and cater for others making use of the day centre.

Nat

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Philip Horton, chairman of the Isle of Wight Foundation said, “We are incredibly proud to help organisations like The Way Forward and are pleased to see members of the Island’s community benefiting from such innovative projects. We look forward to receiving more applications from local groups during 2021.” Applications for this year’s funding round can be made until Monday 7th May 2021. For full details, visit the Isle of Wight Foundation section of the Island Roads website at islandroads. com.

The Way Forward Programme www.wayforwardprogramme.org.uk

DO SOMETHING AMAZING IN 2021 AND

WA L K T H E W I G H T W I T H M O U N T B AT T E N

We cannot wait for the return of our unique and world-famous walk that annually sees thousands of people walking across the beautiful Isle of Wight countryside to raise money in support of Mountbatten.

assing through scenic countryside and picturesque villages, past famous landmarks and taking in stunning seascapes, Walk the Wight really shows off the Island in all its glory. With a choice of walks and distances, people of all ages and abilities can take part, making this an event for everyone, so get those walking boots on and take on the challenge! Your efforts will help raise vital funds to help ensure that no-one is left to die alone, and that loved ones who are left behind will have the bereavement support to help them cope with their feelings and emotions once someone has died. By taking part you will be making a huge difference to how people on the Isle of Wight will experience the end of their lives. Walk the Wight Your Way In 2020 we asked you to get creative and Walk the Wight Your Way. Whilst unable to take part in the traditional walk, people came up with some brilliant ways to cover the miles they would have walked on the day. This year Walk the Wight Your Way is back by popular demand, and there’s more time to complete it. Being a fully

inclusive event, anyone can take part and do it their way. From the 1st April through to the 12th September, we are asking you to take on your own personal challenge and be part of this incredible community event. Mountbatten CEO Nigel Hartley says: “We hope that as many Islanders as possible and those from further afield will support us to get Walk the Wight back on the map in autumn 2021 as one of the largest walks of its kind. Please support us and let all your friends know that we will be able to walk across our wonderful Island to support Mountbatten on Sunday 12th September 2021. By taking part you will be making a huge difference to how people on the Isle of Wight will experience the end of their lives.” Join our virtual community We also have the Walk the Wight Your Way Facebook group. Once you have registered via our website, visit the Mountbatten Isle of Wight Facebook page and join our dedicated group – a place where all of our Island community can share their journey, achievements and support one another. Mountbatten Isle of Wight Facebook page – @MountbattenIW Walk the Wight Your Way, Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/ walkthewightyourway

CEO Nigel Hartley

SIGN UP NOW! Visit our website and sign up online to make sure you are a part of this amazing event. If you don’t have an email address or access to the internet, you can contact the fundraising team for help and support on 01983 217300 www.mountbatten.org.uk/register-to-walk-the-wight March and April 2021

STYLE | Feature

Wild hearts belong here As the Isle of Wight Zoo looks forward to welcoming back v isitors, we ta l k to Charlotte Corney and Law rence Bates about its legacy and li feblood

harlotte Corney’s lifelong connection to the Isle of Wight Zoo was decided at just three months old, when her parents bought the struggling zoo within Sandown’s historic fort. Thanks to a thoroughly ‘My Family and Other Animals’ style childhood – of tiger cubs on the beach and leopards on the school run – Charlotte has a deep physical and emotional affinity to this memoryfilled space where her “whole life has

styleofwight.co.uk

been orbited”. More recently, Charlotte has gradually moved away from the day-to-day management of the site, though she remains in regular contact as a board member and Trustee. “It’s not something that I have a choice whether or not I’m connected to it – it’s part of my DNA,” she says. Today, everyday operations and long-term plans are managed by Chief Operating Officer Lawrence Bates. Lawrence alluded to upcoming

Feature | STYLE

Feeling the lockdow n love During lockdown, the small but dynamic team battened down the hatches while continuing to provide the highest standards of animal welfare. For some of the more people-centric residents – such as ex-circus lion brothers Vigo and Kumba – extra enrichment was provided to compensate for the sudden drop in human stimulus normally provided by a steady stream of visitors. The pandemic has impacted funding for vital animal conservation work across the country. But the Island community came out in force to help this much-loved local attraction continue its valuable work. “The support during lockdown has been overwhelming,” says Lawrence. Charlotte agrees: “It’s been really humbling and heartening; I think a lot of people feel a sense of ownership and belonging over the zoo.”

“There’s something very special about this piece of rock. We prop each other up.” changes at the zoo which will soon be publicly revealed and which aim to more fully express the range of conservational aims and activities of parent charity The Wildheart Trust – Lawrence says, “I think our members, regular visitors, and Trustees have felt for a long time that we’re not a traditional zoo, who – although they do vital work in conservation and inspiring people – often have their own breeding

programmes and source animals through studbooks.” Instead, the animals who find their forever home on the Island are acquired through active engagement with rescue organisations. Some have come from the pet trade; others have been forced to perform in the circus. Many may have suffered physical maltreatment or emotional neglect. Once here, they have a home for life.

From fresh produce donations from local residents and greengrocers, a lorry load of hay from Gatehouse Farm, chicken from KFC in Newport and a fantastic animal Food Bank campaign by Tesco in Ryde, at one point they had enough food to be able to donate to other animal organisations on the Island. “There’s something very special about this piece of rock,” Charlotte says. “We prop each other up.”

A special delivery of Isle of Wight tomatoes from The Tomato Stall helps keep the animals well-fed in lockdown

March and April 2021

Interview | STYLE

Four families with a head for early mornings, a thirst for fresh air and a deep satisfaction from living and working in harmony with the animals in their care

Words by Emma Elobeid Photography by Julian Winslow March and April 2021

It is always better to plan calves for the height of spring so that the mothers have lots of sugars in their milk from the rich grass – that’s really important to give the fawns a big nutritional boost.

styleofwight.co.uk

Interview | STYLE

understanding

deer J

uan and Begonya Vicente’s farming philosophy is one of quiet compassion and absolute balance. “Everything has to be in equilibrium,” Juan explains. Growing up on a farm in his native Spain, he is no stranger to the early mornings and long days involved in caring for a large herd of animals – at one point his family had over 2,000 sheep and around 300 pigs. “Deer are different,” he says, explaining how establishing an environmentally and ecologically aware professional deer farm requires an altogether more holistic approach. Though the work is physically hard and necessarily demanding – Juan heads out the door at dawn and returns at sunset – the pace is slower and more in tune with the land. It has to be, for deer are supremely sensitive. Sensing movement and fear across long distances, caring for them requires a respectful relationship between man and beast. Here, nestled amid the rolling hills of Paradise Valley – with Carisbrooke Priory at its feet and glimpses of Castle Hill at its peak – are the couple’s mixed and growing herd of Red and Fallow deer. By their very nature, deer enhance rather than decimate the biodiversity of the farmland: cleanly trimming hedges and grazing – unlike sheep – with minimal damage to the fields. Even so, the land is carefully managed to ensure optimum conditions for other wildlife. “We constantly balance the deer’s grazing areas with other areas where there is zero grazing, so that birds and small mammals can easily move from one side of the field to another. Our whole farm is connected with environmental highways – either by a hedgerow or copse – which is very important.” Juan and Begonya care deeply about the

environment; unlike large-scale cattle farming, venison has a dramatically lower carbon footprint. With awareness of ethical meat consumption growing, customers are beginning to realise the importance of reducing our reliance on beef imports. Nutritionally, Juan explains, venison is high in protein, low in fat, and full of flavour. Currently, the couple supply a number of Isle of Wight clients; from the Butcher’s Shop in Cowes and Farmer Jacks Farm Shop to hospitality customers including Inns of Distinction and Hillside Hotel in Ventnor. In the future, they hope to offer field-to-fork sales – as well as on-site Spanish wine tasting and cooking demonstrations – direct from their 334-acre farm. Spring is a busy time for any farmer. “It is always better to plan calves for the height of spring so that the mothers have lots of sugars in their milk from the rich grass – that’s really important to give the fawns a big nutritional boost.” However, unlike the very hands-on assistance in traditional cattle or sheep farming, deer rarely require any intervention during the birthing process. “They do everything themselves, and my interaction is very little. What they need most is privacy: zero nervousness and zero stress. And we don’t milk our deer because we don’t want to take the calves away from their mothers.” In this beautifully undulating landscape at the heart of the Island, the herd is allowed to live as undisturbed as possible. Juan says: “We keep them here as if they were wild; keeping it as quiet and peaceful as possible and only using machinery when it is absolutely necessary. Our deer don’t know the difference between the Scottish Highlands and here.”

Fi nd out more about t he Isle of Wi g ht Deer Fa r m at isleof w i g htdeer fa r m.co.u k a nd on I nst a g ra m @iowdeer fa r m March and April 2021

STYLE | Interview

poultry

people K

eeping chickens can be addictive. Twenty years ago, Marie and Adrian Lax decided to acquire a few for their back garden. Finding limited supply at home, they travelled to the mainland; striking up relationships with specialist breeders of hybrid birds, developed specifically for their egg productivity and temperament. They soon established themselves as the Island’s first port-of-call for budding and seasoned chicken owners, and at one point their flock grew to over a thousand. Watching a handful of happy hens scratch around in the dust is life-affirming, and it’s easy to see why demand soared at the start of the first lockdown. “It got very tricky,” Marie says. “We couldn’t get any more chickens for love nor money – we went to the Scottish Isles to every contact we had, and everybody was in the same boat.” There isn’t much that Marie and Adrian don’t know about chickens. Thanks to the Island’s word-of-mouth marketing machine, this ensures a steady flow of new and repeat customers. The couple are always on hand to answer welfare, behavioural and practical questions, no matter how long ago the chickens flew their nest. “We happily give free advice because we don’t want people to feel left alone; I think people feel reassured that we’re always here – whether it’s just to chat or for help with wing clipping.” While they are often seen as ‘starter livestock’, there’s much more to keeping chickens than just chucking some grain on the ground. There are social hierarchies to consider – any new additions require careful introduction to establish the ‘pecking order’ – and personalities to manage. Though hybrid chickens are

good layers, egg yields can fluctuate and it’s important to understand the downs as well as ups. Because at the moment, chicken owners are hoping that strict Avian Flu restrictions requiring poultry to be kept under constant cover will soon be eased. It has not been easy; though much like the camaraderie seen throughout our own pandemic, owners have been sharing new and ingenious ways to provide stimulation and enrichment. “It’s frustrating at the moment,” Marie says. “People have been really imaginative – some have converted trampoline bases because it’s got a solid roof by putting wire around the outside. It’s brought out a lot of positivity; even though people don’t want to add to their flocks while they are cooped up, we’re answering a lot of questions.” Hybrids have unique personalities: some are flighty and independent, like the Russet Blue layer of sky-blue eggs. Others, like the Leghorn Hybrid – known as a ‘little ballerina’ for their petite stature – are more peaceful, producing over 300 pure white eggs a year. Pretty Amber Stars are placid and make ideal pets, while Copper Stars – glossy black with a beetle green sheen and copper feathers – lay impressive volumes of deep chocolate brown eggs. For Adrian, “the prettiest has always been the Bluebell”, describing a friendly and docile slate grey/dark lavender bird with a cream-coloured egg. You can’t beat the taste of free-range eggs from high-welfare chickens (see pages 48-53 for some of our favourite recipe ideas). But, a chicken is far more than the sum of its rate-oflay: full of personality and a joy to look after. Once you start, you may find it hard to stop.

For more i n for mation on Ma r ie a nd Ad r ia n’s ra n ge of hybr id ch ickens, v isit newchu rchpou ltr y.co.u k

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We happily give free advice because we don’t want people to feel left alone; I think people feel reassured that we’re always here – whether it’s just to chat or for help with wing clipping.

March and April 2021

A lot of hand milking is about forming a relationship with the cow; it’s quite an intimate experience. Cookie the calf has his breakfast on one side and I’m sat down taking my two-quarters share on the other.

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Interview | STYLE

a good

life A

fter graduating with matching FirstClass Honours Degrees in Rural Land Management from Cirencester’s prestigious Royal Agricultural College, Francesca and Oliver Cooper established successful careers working for rural estates in the beautiful and affluent Cotswolds, an area renowned for its rich farming heritage. But over time – and following the birth of their two children – the conventional (though stateof-the-art) methods they witnessed began to jar with their personal goals of a more sustainable farming future. So, in 2017, they moved to the Isle of Wight: to the familiar, full-of-potential (and rather fortuitously available) five acres of Francesca’s family smallholding just outside Ryde. Here, they have established a successful small-scale market garden business. Winning a scholarship place on a mentorship programme with internationally renowned micro vegetable farmer Jean Martin Fortier, the couple have continued to grow their knowledge. Francesca talks passionately about the benefits of bio-intensive market gardening: “It’s about producing as much on a small parcel of land as you can by making it human scale. By not disturbing the soil too much, and mulching rather than turning it over, we can increase its carbon capture.” Back in the Cotswolds, the sight of industrialised livestock farming initially prompted a move to veganism: “It was a bit of a knee-jerk reaction to some of the welfare things we witnessed: cows that had never seen grass, pigs farrowing in crates,” Francesca explains. “But the more I read about regenerative agriculture, the more I realised that high-welfare meat and dairy

production doesn’t have to be incompatible with sustainability. Plus, the land felt empty without animals.” Just after Christmas, the Coopers were joined by three black and beautifully curly Belted Galloway cattle: mother cow Sweep, her bull calf Cookie, and nine-month-old heifer Winnie. Long term, they would like to grow the herd and develop the animal side of their business to a wider audience. “We don’t come from a livestock farming background so we’re learning a lot as we go – on the hoof!” Day-to-day, the ‘good life’ is all-consuming – even now, at the very start of the growing season, there are organic seeds to be ordered, crops to be planned, beds to be cleared and seedlings to be transplanted. But first, Sweep the cow must be milked. Though it has been 25 years since she was first taught by her nana, Francesca describes how the ‘knack’ still exists as muscle memory. “A lot of hand milking is about forming a relationship with the cow; it’s quite an intimate experience. Cookie the calf has his breakfast on one side and I’m sat down taking my two-quarters share on the other.” The family has recently experimented with making delicious (and fully self-sufficient) soft cheeses, including mozzarella. Though their scale is small, the Modern Kitchen Garden has big dreams. And it is perhaps here that their business – rather than physical farming – experience will stand them in good stead. “As new entrant farmers it’s quite exciting: we’ve got a lot to learn on the husbandry side, but our experiences of things like branding and direct sales mean that we can really make small-scale farming viable.”

Fol low T he Moder n K itchen Ga rden on I nst a g ra m: @t hemoder n k itchen ga rden March and April 2021

STYLE | Interview

showing

saddlebacks D

avid and Sharon Groves are better known as the friendly and welcoming owners of award-winning Independent pet shop, Pets with Hart. From this well-stocked traditional store on Newport’s Holyrood Street, they share their font of knowledge and experience (both are Registered Animal Medicines Advisors, known as RAMAs) to all breeds of pet owners and animal lovers. They are also the proud (and rather welldecorated) breeders of British Saddleback pigs. Listed by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust as rare and at risk of extinction, there are now fewer than 400 breeding sows remaining. It’s easy to see why the couple were drawn to this particular breed: black and white, with a broad band running across their deep backs and attractive lop ears falling forward over their faces. “We fell in love with the Saddlebacks,” Sharon tells me. “They have the softest, most gentle nature and are wonderful mums, even when they very occasionally have more babies than they have teats for – seventeen has been our record, but she reared the whole lot!” Encouraged by friends, David and Sharon first started to show their pigs in Wales, where they lived before returning to the Island to be closer to family, purchasing the then-struggling pet shop site. Over the years, the couple and their ‘Watchingwell’ herd have won countless prizes, awards and rosettes; from the Royal Cornwall Show to Berkshire and beyond. “The show community is fantastic, it’s like being in a giant family,” Sharon says. The pigs themselves wallow in the attention and regalia. “Before a show they get all scrubbed up, then as soon as they see their mobile home they

walk straight up the ramp into the trailer tail-totail.” Sharon describes how – for many of the families and attendees they encounter up and down the country – it is the first time they have ever seen a real pig. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to inspire and educate about our rare breeds.” Back home – and outside show season – the couple work hard to provide the highest standards of care for not only the everrevolving array of smaller animals and birds rehomed from their Newport pet shop, but their two much-loved sows Heidi (showname: Watchingwell Hilda 163) and Sadie (show name: Shenlow Shamrock 100). Their paddock is a piggy paradise, with bespoke arks and gloriously muddy wallowing holes. These double champions are both mothers-to-be; with Heidi expecting a litter in May, and another planned for Sadie in the summer. Some piglets are kept for showing. Others, once they are no longer reliant on their mother’s milk, are sold as weaners to local smallholders who raise them as part of their own journey towards self-sufficiency. Sharon is pragmatic about this parting. “We ensure that the animals have the best possible life. They are always treated with kindness, compassion and respect – they enjoy a good diet and have plenty of free-range fresh air.” If you eat pork, Sharon explains, consciously sourcing meat from ethically reared pigs is the single most important thing you can do to reduce harmful factory farming practices and ensure the continuation of our rare breeds. “Keeping pedigree pigs is such a rewarding experience” she says, “knowing that we are contributing to the survival of these beautiful heritage animals.”

Visit Pets Wit h Ha r t, t he Isla nd’s on ly nationa l awa rd-w i n n i n g pet shop at petsw it h ha r t.com

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We ensure that the animals have the best possible life. They are always treated with kindness, compassion and respect – they enjoy a good diet and have plenty of free-range fresh air.

March and April 2021

STYLE | Feature

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 Pictu res Ti m i Eross

The big news is that we have a dog. And though she’s only a baby, even at four months old her black panther paws and supermodel legs are more gangly giantess than petite pup. Life with Rosie is a Wonderfully Great Adventure; full of boundless energy and infinite affection, she makes everything, well, rosier.

t’s true what they say: having a puppy is as close as it gets to having another child. Only this time, I have happily outsourced the night shifts to my husband, who spent seven weeks sleeping downstairs to settle her in. In fact, the day before Rosie came home, our household was triply blessed with the arrival of three new baby guinea pigs, which we named ‘Posy, Pudding and Pi’, in a nicely rounded finale to the flock.

Boy and dog in perfect step

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Family walks now take twice as long. Not because Rosie is slow – quite the

contrary, her gallop gathers at pace, ears flailing in the sea air, four white socks blurring as one – but because everyone wants to stop and comment; a phenomenon I can only imagine will increase as she grows (and grows). Remarks are chalked up on our ‘Great Dane bingo’ card, with ten points for ‘She’ll be big!’ and ten for ‘Have you got a saddle yet?’ She seems to love the attention though, and I have a feeling she’ll grow into her eventual ‘Biggest Dog in the Village’ badge with pride. And though it’s been a year of daily

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walks around these now very familiar looping trails, she’s made us see our world through new – great big brown puppy dog – eyes. Having made it through the first few squelching weeks of late-winter mud, we’re finally being rewarded with all the joys of Island dog ownership in springtime. Rosie must have missed the doggy memo on the joys of stick-hunting, preferring the rather more sensory delight of a single crunchy leaf or sorry-looking broken shell. She and our youngest share a common compulsion to free the field stones that the great spring thaw has pushed up from their earthly beds and carry them home. She is particularly partial to catkins, cleavers (colloquially known as ‘sticky weed’) and – most hilariously of all – fluffy dandelion clocks, which is inevitably met with delighted cries of ‘Oh Rosie!’ from the boys. It’s really no wonder she loves spring so much: dogs have dichromatic vision and can only discern blues and yellows, which March and April 2021

STYLE | Feature

Giant’s Causeway: Rosie the Great leads her tribe with pride

Remarks are chalked up on our ‘Great Dane bingo’ card, with ten points for ‘She’ll be big!’ and ten for ‘Have you got a saddle yet?’ explains her equal love of daffodil heads, gorse flowers and Easter socks alike. I can only imagine what she will make of Borthwood’s blanket of bluebells! Thanks to the brilliantly reassuring advice of Paul from Cottage Canines, our ‘training’ so far has focused on the basic commands. Puppies need gentle guidance of course – balls are for playing with; scarves are not – but as Paul explains, our main philosophy for these vital first few months (and the rest of her life) is showering her with love, building trust, and instilling a sense of unconditional belonging. Oh, and moving all the Lego upstairs.

Spot the puppy

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New pup?

Dog Behaviourist and Trainer Paul James Marshall gives us his top tips

Social and bonding exercises Grooming Get your puppy used to being softly brushed and handled all over their body from an early age; reward them with a treat when they sit calmly. Greeting people

raining begins the moment you get your puppy home. One of the most important things to remember is that we are not pack leaders – dominance theories have long been disproved – and animals learn through good leadership, consistency, reward and reinforcement. Using force-free, positive training methods is the best way of building a strong bond with your dog, which in turn will motivate them to follow commands, have good manners, or simply be safe off the lead. But first, we have to teach our puppy to listen. Here are some commands that you can begin working on for 10 to 15 minutes a day. Keep it fun, and always end on a positive note.

‘Sit’ Keep the command simple. Let your puppy sniff the treat then raise it slowly back over the head so they automatically sit down. Reward with praise and a treat. Once they’ve ‘got’ it, practice in a range of indoor and outdoor locations. ‘Give’ (or drop) Practice with toys. When your puppy has an item in their mouth, approach them and gently say ‘give’ or ‘drop’ – hold the treat out so they understand you are swapping (not bribing) for the item.

‘Come!’ As your puppy is playing in the garden (or around the house) say their name to get their attention followed by a cheerful ‘come’ or happy ‘here’. When they run towards you, reward with a smile, praise and treat. This is the foundation of the all-important recall and will stand you both in good stead for the rest of their life.

Being greeted by an excitable bouncy puppy may be cute: but being bounced on by a fully grown dog is not, so start as you mean to go on. Ask visitors to approach calmly and initially ignore your puppy – it’s also important not to reward for jumping up or give any attention for this behaviour. Mouthing Nipping is normal puppy behaviour, but they need to learn that it doesn’t result in continued attention: say ‘ouch’, stop playing, and if necessary walk away. Try and stop games before your puppy gets too excited, and make sure not to allow rough or excitable play. Alone time Being left alone (initially for just 5 to 10 minutes) is an important part of growing up, and ideally should be started as soon as possible. Socialisation Puppies need to learn about the world to turn into confident, outgoing dogs. Try and introduce your puppy to a new experience – especially sounds, places, people or dogs – every day.

For advice, reassurance and professional help, get in touch with Paul to find out more about the calm and consistent techniques in his one-to-one Puppy Packages. Visit cottagecanines.co.uk March and April 2021

STYLE | Art

Style spectrum Sienna Anderson

Sending rol ls of fi lm off to be developed – and then excited ly waiting for them to arrive in the post – was a high light of Sienna A nderson’s Island chi ld hood, where her early love of nature inspired a li felong passion to capture its w i ldness and wonder.

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“My parents taught me to respect our beautiful Island from a very young age, and to leave behind only my footprints,” she says.

Opposite: Pair of faithful foxes at Alum Bay

As a photographer, Sienna’s portfolio is especially diverse: in 2018, she won the ‘birds in flight’ category at the prestigious Bird Photographer of the Year Awards for her photo of an egret in flight at Seaview’s Hersey Nature Reserve, and she is currently shortlisted in the ‘commercial product’ category of the 2021 British Photography Awards for her iconic shot of a submerged Mermaid Gin bottle. “Any photography that allows me to be creative, has a sense of adventure – and an element of danger – excites me,” she says.

Above: Gull at Hersey Nature Reserve on a misty spring morning

sou lphotog raphy iow.com March and April 2021

STYLE | Art

Above: Seal pup at Bembridge Harbour Right: Scallop after the storm, Bembridge Beach

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DAZZLE & DISRUPT Clayden Gallery, Quay Arts

Sat 27th March - Sun 13th June | Jeannie Driver & Lisa Traxler By Georg ia New ma n QUAY A RTS

geometric patterns. By the end of the First World War thousands of merchant ships and hundreds of naval vessels had been ‘Dazzled’ in what constituted the world’s largest public art and design display.

azzle & Disrupt is our much-anticipated exhibition of 2021. Delayed for almost a year since the first lockdown in 2020, we explore the work of two emerging contemporary visual artists working in the South; Jeannie Driver and Lisa Traxler, focusing on themes of perception, disorientation and disruption, instigated through the investigation of the Dazzle phenomenon. Dazzle was invented in 1917 by marine artist Norman Wilkinson. Wilkinson’s ‘Dazzle’ designs were used to disrupt and disorientate German U-boats at sea during the First World War by painting British and Allied ships in striking

The masterful and dazzling effect this had on its onlooker questioned where they were positioned, its scale, its shape and distance. So much uncertainty, of what we are seeing and where we are positioned, draws comparisons to our current emotions towards the pandemic and feelings of isolation and the unknown in 2020 and 2021. The new commissions will form the main exhibition in the West Gallery with sculptural works, film, installations and wall murals. The Café will show 2D works on paper by the artists making further exploration into the line, drawing, shape and form, referencing their installation works. The Clayden Gallery will become a research and learning space, providing information on the story of Dazzle and its relationship to the Island’s maritime heritage, together with the artists’ preparatory works, revealing their creative processes through sketchbooks, maquettes and research notes.

Drawing 2,2,4,131. (Detail)

Online Launch: Sat 27th March 2021 Check out our website for dates and details for downloadable resources, online virtual gallery tours, talks and book launch with the artists, curators and Dazzle experts. www.quayarts.org

2020 ©jeanniedriver 2018

Dazzle & Disrupt is kindly supported by Arts Council England, Art UK, Royal Society of Sculptors, St Barbe Gallery & Museum, IW Heritage Service, AJ Wells & Sons, CutLaserCut, Art Space Portsmouth, Daisie Rich Trust and Wightlink.

Above top left: In Conversation (10). 2018. Giclee print. 297 x 420 mm. Limited Ed 20. (One of 10 images from In Conversation, a durational performance drawing with pauses) ©jeanniedriver 2019. Above top right: Lisa Traxler, photo by Julian Winslow

Transformation 1 Lisa Traxler Photo by David Whistance

Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport Harbour, Isle of Wight, PO30 5BD March and April 2021

STYLE | Art

With Ja mes Lord A r t & Desig n

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Isle of Wight artist James Lord spent his childhood sculling around Yarmouth Harbour, sailing Scows on the River Yar and playing in the summer surf at Compton Bay. Following a London career in Graphic Communication and Design, his full-circle return home eight years ago inspired him to capture the glimpses, views and moments in time of the land and seascapes that surround him once again.

From left to right: Broad Lane to the Solent Hamstead to Newtown Creek Dean Farm Oil Seed Rape Stormy Seas

Displaying James’ characteristic screen-printed style with bold block colours, line-drawn details and batik-like textures, these beautiful Signed Limited-Edition Prints, just under A3 in size, are now available to order – for £29.75 including postage and packaging – via styleofwight.co.uk.

Ja mes Lord A rt & Desig n, 2 Bath Roa d, Cowes, PO31 7RH ja meslorda rt.co.u k Instag ra m: @ ja meslorda rt March and April 2021

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Wild Lines

Style of Wight first spoke to science w riter, zoolog ist and conser vation artist Jen Pa rker whi le she was liv ing on Montserrat: a tiny g reen volcanic Island in the Caribbean about ha lf the size of the Isle of Wight w ith a popu lation about ha lf as large as Cowes

hough the wildlife seen from our respectively remote office windows differed in tropicality (hummingbirds and doves vs. red squirrels and robins) the parallels of crossglobal Island life were nevertheless clear. “There is a very different sense of community on Islands, and of course Islands are where you often get the most biodiversity,” says Jen. An Isle of Wight girl, Jen credits her Island childhood with fuelling her passion for nature, talking with nostalgia of Gurnard sunsets, and fondness of her favourite Newport circular walk in the ‘Paradise Valley’ around Nunnery Lane and the Isle of Wight Deer Farm. At school, Jen’s love of science naturally progressed to the study of Zoology at University: “My dissertation on the effect garden bird feeders had on ground beetles involved digging up people’s gardens in the rain – which was very interesting, although slightly miserable!” Keen to graduate from

the earth, she moved onto a Masters in Palaeoanthropology; this time, her thesis was on a two-million-year-old fossilised bees’ nest. By the end of that she decided the best thing she could do to make an immediate rather than academic difference to ecosystems was to go into conservation. Third time around, her studies – a Postgraduate Diploma in Endangered Species – took her to the altogether more exotic island of Mauritius, an experience which “really solidified my desire to push conservation communication; of course it’s important that scientists focus on individual species in their field work, but ultimately making a difference comes down to human behaviour.” Talking of the gap that often emerges between the dots between the practical on-the-ground conservation projects and global messaging, she explains: “We need people to care and feel connected to nature in order to want to make a difference.

Opposite: African wild dog: African wild dogs live in groups of up to 40, working together and sharing the care of pups and sick or wounded members

Jen with her favourite drawing, the Asian Elephant, created from thousands of tiny dots

Brazilian Tapir: Ecological engineers, Tapirs play an important role in dispersing seeds over long distances

March and April 2021

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‘I feel like we’re realising that we are part of nature, which of course is how we would’ve felt tens of thousands of years ago. People are starting to feel a bit more connected and appreciating even being able to go out for a walk in the woods – and also realising that we’re vulnerable to disease.’

With conservation, very often the messages you hear are very negative and a bit depressing.” Optimism and engagement are key to meaningful change, she says: “We have to feel as though we’re working towards a shared goal and that progress has been made.” Back in the UK, it was while working as Senior Editor of a veterinary magazine in Oxford that Jen started drawing in her spare time, selling prints on her Instagram and at local craft markets. When the opportunity arose to accompany her conservationist partner on a project to reintroduce the critically endangered mountain chicken frog back into its native environment, she decided to pursue her wildlifeinspired artwork business more fully from afar. Montserrat’s lush rainforests and distinctive black sand beaches paint a rather dreamy lockdown backdrop upon which Jen was able to finally combine her twin passions of art and wildlife and reach a wider audience. Using lines and dots to create illustrations of endangered species that are full of character and charm, Jen uses her social media platforms to speak out against destructive practices – from logging and deforestation,

poaching to habitat degradation – that have contributed to her subject’s decline, as well as advocate for community conservation projects and sustainability initiatives. Reflecting on a post-lockdown legacy, she is hopeful: “I feel like we’re realising that we are part of nature, which of course is how we would’ve felt tens of thousands of years ago. People are starting to feel a bit more connected and appreciating even being able to go out for a walk in the woods – and also realising that we’re vulnerable to disease. People don’t necessarily want to carry on with life as it was before – driving to work, driving home, coming home, seeing your family briefly, thinking about work, going to bed, starting again. I’m so lucky that I can do what I want to do wherever I want to be and not have to be in an office.” For now, Jen is back on the Isle of Wight, rediscovering the nature on her childhood doorstep: “When I come back to the UK I always notice the things that you don’t when you’re there all the time – I’m always shocked at how big pigeons are!” Her next stop – St. Lucia – might not have any pigeons, but does have a variety of threatened species which will undoubtedly feature in Jen’s future work.

To f i nd out more about the enda n gered species d raw n by Jen, a nd to pu rchase her del ig htf u l ly deta i led a rtwork , v isit: w w w.w i ld l i nes.a rt Instag ra m: @ w i ld l i nes.a rt

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Above: Aye Aye: Aye Aye, the coolest lemur by far, were once thought to be associated with witchcraft Below: Ring-tailed lemur: Fluffy, prancing ring-tailed lemurs are found only in Madagascar

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BEHIND THE COVER

The initial layout and content was briefed and open to my interpretation. After the first sketch/draft was completed, there were a few tweaks to rework into a second draft.

By Ver ity Godw i n DESIGN ER & I L LUSTR ATOR

Ever wondered what the process of creating art for publication entails? Or how and where the inspiration comes from to create best results for a client? Well here’s a sneak peek at the processes and stages involved with blossoming an idea and bringing those ideas to life! I have been working professionally as an illustrator/designer since the beginning of lock down (the first one!) and it’s really kept me focussed during a tricky time. I was used to an extremely busy day job in the events/entertainment industry and when everything ground to a halt, creativity and drive pushed me into a different side of the creative arts - and I’m loving it! I developed ideas using fine liner pens to create portraits of animals in a quirky, different way which resulted in fresh, contemporary pieces.

Once the design was approved, work began on the final piece. Firstly sketching, followed by adding the intricate details. Above is where the magic happens!

So where did we start with the front cover for this issue? At the very beginning, of course! Style of Wight wanted a unique, illustrated feel to this issue with wildlife and our beloved Island steering the inspiration. The key is in the detail, for example, using flowers that are native to the island including wood calamint and pyramid orchids. Also incorporating quirky, country wildlife with a twist, conveying their personalities and stories and bringing them to life!

www.veritymaydesign.co.uk

Finally, the next stage was to digitalise the drawing, adding the specks of colour and refining the layout to make sure the balance worked across the spread. March and April 2021

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Photography competition

BELONGING

The winner: Cow a nd Ca lf, by Pa mela Pa rker, New port

Judging Panel Gary Wallis Esteemed Portrait Photographer Georgia Newman Visual Arts Manager, Quay Arts Steve Gascoigne Available Light Photography Emma Elobeid Deputy Editor, Style of Wight Magazine Laura Craven Graphic Designer, Style of Wight Magazine

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 image title. Images must be 300dpi and larger than 2MB in file size. Entries should be submitted by Wednesday 21st April. For full competition details see our website  www.styleofwight.co.uk

Next edition’s theme: Biosphere 44

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The w inner’s photog raph is not on ly featured in this edition of Style of Wight Magazine, but w i l l be displayed on the wa l ls of the prestig ious Quay A r ts Ga l ler y, in New port and the w inner w i 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 Photog raphy, by Steve Gascoig ne.

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Medi na Bookshop

Spri n g book rev iews A selection of titles persona l ly recommended by the team at Medina Bookshop: these books ref lect what it means to belong – to ourselves and w ith others

The Smallest Man by Frances Quinn

Friends by Robin Dunbar

Raceless by Georgina Lawton

This emotional debut centres around Nat Davy, a dwarf, who is gifted against his will to Queen Henrietta Maria (wife of King Charles I) in 1625. Set against the backdrop of the English Civil War and loosely inspired by a true story, Quinn brilliantly interweaves captivating fiction into historic fact.

We get by with more than just a little help from our friends; recent research states friends are vital for our health and wellbeing. In this book, worldrenowned psychologist Robin Dunbar utilises a wealth of information, including first person experience, neuroscience and anthropology, to give a comprehensive explanation of how and why we make friends.

Journalist Georgina Lawton writes a unique and moving memoir about her fascinating search for identity and belonging. Growing up Black in a white family her race was never acknowledged. It was only when her non-biological father sadly died that she began to question her racial identity.

As Nat recounts his story to the reader, we come to know a troubled young person plagued with resistance to who he is. You can really feel his desperation to be liked and respected by others. Only through his unexpected journey do we understand the true meaning of acceptance, strength and hope.

From strengthening our existing relationships to the difference between family and friends; this is the ultimate read for anyone who wants to expand their knowledge of social human behaviour.

Travelling across the world, Lawton speaks to experts in genetic testing, sociologists and psychologists as well as people who have similar experiences to her. This is an eyeopening investigation into what it means to define ourselves, our truth and the nuances of family and connection.

Medina Bookshop. 50 High Street, Cowes. 01983 300044. medinabookshop.com Facebook @medinabooksiow Instagram @medinabooksiow March and April 2021

Food | STYLE

Springpickings This issue, as the thriv ing on line and off line community approaches its first anniversary, we spea k to Green Island Veg Economy founder Holly Maslen about her seed of an idea that grew into an Islandwide movement. Inspired by the abundance of farm-fresh free-range produce across the Island, we’ve a lso picked out three of our favourite specia l occasion egg recipes to sha ke you out of a scrambled rut; a ll the better when served with our very own ‘Style subscribers blend’ of deep and chocolatey Island Roasted coffee. A nd fina lly, with Easter just around the corner, we’ve got classic Sunday roasts, peppery spring greens – plus a spark ling something in the form of Mermaid Gin’s classic Singapore Sling – covered too.

Eggs are only the beginning – pages 48-53

When you GIVE a little love: spotlight on the Green Island Veg Economy – pages 54-57

Introducing our new Style of Wight single origin Artisan coffee – page 65

March and April 2021

STYLE | Food

Eggs

are only the beginning Th is spri ng, red iscover the pleasu re of cook i ng w ith fa rm fresh eggs w ith th ree of ou r favou rite better-tha n-boi led recipes: from saucy Sha kshu ka to wor th-ever y-step Pasteis de Nata

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Food | STYLE

Portuguese custard tarts (Pasteis de Nata) These tasty treats a re a popu la r sight i n ma ny ba keries across the Isla nd; a nd rightly so. Ou r recipe requ i res a little ti me but the resu lts a re so wor th it Ingredients | serves 12 For the dough: 125g plain flour ¼ tsp fine salt 80ml cold water 120g unsalted butter, softened to room temperature For the sugar syrup: 150g caster sugar 60ml water 1 tbsp water 1 cinnamon stick 1 lemon, zested For the custard filling: 40g plain flour ¼ tsp fine salt 360ml milk 6 large egg yolks 1 tsp vanilla bean paste Method Combine flour, salt, and cold water in a bowl. Mix with a wooden spoon until dough just comes together and pulls away from the sides of the bowl – the dough should be sticky. Transfer dough onto a well-floured surface. Dust a little more flour over the top. Gently knead into shape for 1 or 2 minutes to form a round. Cover and rest at room temperature for 15 minutes. Roll dough into a square about 1/8 inch thick, dusting with flour as necessary but making sure the dough remains sticky. Spread 1/3 of the butter over 2/3 of the square using a spatula, leaving a border around the edges. Flip the

unbuttered side over the middle of the square and fold the opposite end over it like a letter. Straighten the edges as needed. Turn dough with a bench scraper to unstick it from the counter; dust with flour. Flip and sprinkle more flour on top. Roll dough into a 1/8-inch-thick rectangle, carefully stretching edges as needed. Spread another 1/3 of the butter over 2/3 of the dough. Fold into thirds. Transfer onto a lined baking sheet and freeze until butter is slightly chilled, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle dough with flour and roll into a square a little over 1/8 inch thick. Spread remaining butter over the dough, leaving a 1- to 1 1/2-inch border on the top edge. Dip your finger in water and lightly moisten the unbuttered edge. Roll dough into a log starting from the bottom edge. Dust with more flour and polish the ends as needed. Seal with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. Combine sugar, 60ml plus 1 tablespoon water, cinnamon, and lemon zest in a pot. Boil over medium heat, without stirring, until syrup reaches 100°C. Remove from heat. Preheat oven to 550°F (288°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin. Whisk flour, salt, and cold milk together very thoroughly in a cold pot. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until milk thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool for at least 10 minutes. Whisk egg yolks into the cooled

milk. Add the sugar syrup and vanilla extract. Mix until combined. Strain custard into a glass measuring cup. Unwrap the dough and trim any uneven bits on the ends. Score log into 12 even pieces using a knife; cut through. Place a piece of dough in each muffin cup. Dip your thumb lightly in some cold water. Press thumb into the centre of the swirl; push dough against the bottom and up the sides of the cup until it reaches least 1/8 inch past the top. Fill each cup 3/4 of the way with custard. Bake in the preheated oven until the pastry is browned and bubbly, and the tops start to blister and caramelise, about 12 minutes. Cool tarts briefly and serve warm.

Tip:

Your dough may feel a little stickier than expected. This is fine, as the extra moisture, encouraged by a very hot oven, creates the signature flaky, buttery, crispy crust.

Eat:

We have so many options for local free-range eggs on our Island – always our first choice for a really rich, luxurious custard.

Feel i n g i n spi red but wou ld rat her not get you r preciou s copy of Style covered i n pa st r y dou g h a nd egg wh ites? Us neit her. Vi sit w w w.styleof w i g ht.co.u k to dow n loa d you r d i g it a l recipe ca rd. March and April 2021

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WE’VE MISSED YOU

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MORE THAN JUST A PUB

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www.thefishbourne.co.uk 01983 882823

www.theboathouseiow.co.uk 01983 810616

www.thespinnakeriow.co.uk 01983 872840

Inns of Distinction are delighted to be able to welcome you back for al fresco dining and drinks from April 12th! Join us at The Boathouse and The Fishbourne each day from 10am and to dine between 12 - 7pm. Join us at The Spinnaker for drinks between 3pm - 7pm Monday to Thursday, 3pm to 10pm on Friday and Saturday and 12 - 6pm on Sundays. The Spinnaker’s kitchen will be open 5pm - 7pm on Friday and Saturdays and 12 - 3pm on Sundays’

DISTINCTIVE DINING IN OUR AA RATED 4 STAR INNS

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Egg cups and bacon soldiers These deliciously-d ippy brea k fast mu f f i ns a nd bacon-breaded sold iers a re super f u n to ma ke w ith k ids – a g reat a lternative weekend bacon ‘n’ egg treat Ingredients | serves 6 6 slices bread 12 slices streaky bacon 50g salted butter, melted then left to cool to room temperature salt and pepper to taste Method Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Cut the crusts off the bread. To make the soldiers: slice the bacon in half lengthways, and wrap a piece around each crust twisting as you go. Place them on a baking tray. Brush a cupcake tin with the melted butter. Press the bread into the muffin tin, then brush more butter onto the bread. Bake the bacon soldiers for 10 minutes until they are about halfway cooked and starting to render their fat. At the same time, bake bread cups for 10 minutes or until the bread starts to turn golden. Turn the bacon and cook for a further 10 minutes until crispy. Crack an egg into each bread cup; season with salt and pepper.

Tip:

Eat:

Try not to overbake the eggs and leave the white as snotty as you dare; any egg that overspills your bread cases can easily be tidied after cooking.

Bacon from your local butcher or farm shop will usually contain less nitrates, for health, and less water, making for a crispier cook.

Bake the eggs for another 10-12 minutes until just cooked. March and April 2021

DRUNKEN LOBSTER JAPANESE GRILL & COCKTAIL BAR

Our menu is based around Japanese BBQ with an impressive Yakatori grill where skewered meats, vegetables and local seafood are cooked over open flame and volcanic rock. The relaxed bar has a concise selection of speciality wine, sake, spirits and cocktails.

BOTTOMLESS LUNCHES* - £50pp Served every Sunday from 12 til 5pm. Just book your 2 hour slot and enjoy 2 skewers, 2 sides and as many house drinks as you wish - including our ‘Umami Bloody Mary’ *booking essential

RESERVATIONS Telephone: 01983 852500 2 Pier Street Ventnor Isle Of Wight PO38 1STV hello@drunkenlobster.com

Food | STYLE

Shakshuka with Briddlesford Feta

Th is u lti mate one-pa n Sha kshu ka – wh ich l itera l ly mea ns “a m i x tu re” – ma kes a superb m idweek mea l Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 1 onion, sliced 1 red pepper, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cans chopped tomatoes 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp coriander Salt and pepper, to taste 3 or 4 eggs 1 pack Briddlesford Feta style cheese Parsley or coriander to garnish Method Preheat oven to 190°c / 375°F Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and peppers and cook gently for about 15 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the tomatoes, and dried spices. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer until the tomato sauce thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Sprinkle a good helping of crumbled feta cheese. Create small nests in the tomato and feta sauce and gently crack the eggs into the skillet. Place the skillet in the oven to continue cooking until the eggs are set, about 10 minutes.

Tip:

Eat:

Use a ladle to make a well in the sauce before adding the eggs – this will help them stop mixing into the sauce and scrambling.

For an extra kick, season with Garlic Farm Sea Salt with Chilli, or – if you can handle it – a splash of House of Chilli’s famous Hot Sauce.

Garnish with fresh coriander or parsley, maybe a few more sprinkles of feta and serve immediately. March and April 2021

STYLE | Food

When you a little love It sta r ted w ith a seed a nd took a globa l pause to f i na l ly f lower a nd fr u it. Precisely one yea r a go, the pa ndem ic proved the perfect env i ron ment to tu rn Isle of Wight a r tist Hol ly Maslen’s fer ti le i ma g i n i ngs for a Green Isla nd Veg Economy (GI V E) i nto the f lou rish i ng com mu n ity of g rowers that it is today.

By Emma Elobeid Photos by Charlotte Corney

styleofwight.co.uk

Food | STYLE

Wonderfully wonky veg and treasured tomatoes

he premise is simple: Islanders who grow their own produce give away surplus crops – thanks to a combination of overenthusiastic sowing and unexpected gluts, many growers are left with far more than they can use – for free via socially distanced GIVE stations outside their homes. “It’s something I’ve thought about on and off for years,” Holly says. “I’ve got quite a small garden myself and people with bigger spaces often end up growing way more than they can use. I’ve always been struck by empty front gardens; to me they are unused growing space.” Since its launch in March 2020, the GIVE Facebook group has grown to over eight thousand members, all now eagerly preparing their windowsills, greenhouses, potting stations and plots in mutual anticipation of the ‘last

frost’ and ‘first fruit’ ahead. Meanwhile, Holly is one step closer to realising her dream of Islanders being able to walk down any Island street and being able to pick up a free meal of fresh, homegrown produce that neighbours have put out for others to enjoy. “When I set the page up, I thought ‘maybe a few people will be interested’, I didn’t really think it would take off like it has,” Holly tells me. Though the initial plan was for produce, the group quickly evolved and soon people were sharing not only seeds and seedlings but advice and encouragement, successes, failures, and wonderfully wonky veg. “Some of the posts get hundreds of comments which is really nice because a lot of people think that Facebook is negative. We’ve all got the same common goal.” Though it was the sight of stripped supermarket shelves that inspired the timing of the launch – as Islanders, we

The dream: a GIVE station on every street

“I’ve always been struck by empty front gardens; to me they are unused growing space.”

March and April 2021

STYLE | Food

GIVE gardens large and small provide space to potter and nurture

GIVE fostered a much-needed sense of belonging through the simple interactions of a peer-to-peer economy.

Seeds of possibilities

Time to tend

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are perhaps more reliant on crossSolent supply chains – there is nothing of the secretive ‘loo rolls in the loft, baked beans under the bed’ prepper about GIVE; rather a collaborative community fuelled by selfless selfsufficiency where members get thrills from the simple joy of passing it forward. During the first national lockdown, seed sales rocketed as online gardening retailers experienced unprecedented demand. Stuck at home, thousands – many first-time growers on lower incomes – sought solace from the 24-hour news cycle in gardening’s simply satisfying pleasures. Thanks to the ‘growers

hacks’ shared in the GIVE community, many of this year’s crops will have been propagated from last year’s plants in a rather beautifully circular loop of non-commercialised control. It is perhaps the enduring paradox of this pandemic; physically isolated, we turned to connection more than ever. And, in this way, GIVE fostered a muchneeded sense of belonging through the simple interactions of a peer-to-peer economy: a wave through an open kitchen window, a thank-you over a garden fence. In August 2020, Holly received a Points of Light Award and a personal letter from Prime Minister Boris Johnson in

Food | STYLE

Hear it from the

GIVE-ers “As a working mum of two with chronic pain, GIVE helped us get out the house and do something meaningful as a family, it was our saving grace. This year, my daughter wants to create a herb garden and a new plant station, and my son – who loves digging – has big plans.” – Missy Kay, East Cowes “GIVE is such a friendly and considerate group; what a great community spirit we are lucky to have on the Island.” – Justine Crumplin, Ryde “GIVE kept me sane and gave me purpose during lockdown – I gave away over 100 plants that I had grown! I’m looking forward to the new season so that I can do it all again.” – Pam Hogg, Seaview

Grower’s pride

which he praised her for “sowing the seed of community action allowing thousands to share their home-grown produce and help nourish the most vulnerable in society”.

“My sharing table – a converted cable spool – was often completely covered with plants ready to give, swap and share. I’m not an experienced gardener but have learned so much from other GIVE members, the support has been amazing.” – Mary Maunder, Seaview

Holly is characteristically modest about the honour: “I got the email in the summer and I was kind of busy at the time and thought ‘that looks a bit suspect’ and just ignored it for a few days. Then I felt a bit embarrassed and funny about it actually, but then thought ‘oh I suppose I’d better!’ It’s great for the group to have it but personally things like that make me cringe.” As Holly looks forward to a second year of GIVE growth, she tells me that she is working on a book which tells its story, and – when the pandemic is finally behind us – hopes of a big GIVE swap-party in a field.

“I moved back to the Island at the start of the first lockdown, and GIVE helped me get started in the garden at a time when it was difficult to source things anywhere at all.” – Colin Toogood, Cowes Join the GIVE community on Facebook: Green Island Veg Economy (IOW) March and April 2021

“If they gave Michelin stars for sausage rolls, this would have three!”

James Martin on “James Martin’s Great British Adventure”

BEMBRIDGE 26 High St PO35 5SE 01983 872717

NEWPORT 1 St. James Street PO30 5HE 01983 522392

100% Isle of Wight Beef, Lamb & Pork

Delivered Direct from Farm to fridge

2020 WINNER Beef Innovator of the Year

Premium Salt-aged Steaks, Roasts, Sausages, Dry-cured Bacon & More

www.isleofwightmeat.co.uk 01983 741234

Food | STYLE

Herb crusted rack of lamb With Isle of Wight Meat Co. Su nsh i ne-f i l led days a re a l most upon us, usheri ng i n thoughts of long a nd leisu rely Easter lu nches. W hen it comes to the perfect Easter d ish, it’s i mpossible to i ma g i ne a more qu i ntessentia l ly spri ngl i ke spread tha n a herb-cr usted rack of la mb

ender, delicate, and requiring a shorter cooking time than the more robust roasting joints, the rack is considered one of the finest lamb cuts. Adding a herb crust is a great way to impart some vibrant spring colours as well as adding extra texture. Though any combination will work well (particularly when cut fresh from the garden or windowsill), we’ve gone for a simple yet sublime combination of parsley, thyme and rosemary to complement the lamb’s delicate flavour.

Ingredients 2 racks of lamb (500g each) 2-3 tbsp Dijon mustard 75g dry breadcrumbs Small bunch of parsley, roughly chopped 2 sprigs thyme, finely chopped 1 sprig rosemary, finely chopped 1 large garlic clove, finely diced 25g Parmesan Olive oil Salt and pepper

Method Combine the breadcrumbs, herbs, garlic, parmesan and a little olive oil. Set aside. Heat a large pan and sear the racks on all sides. Coat the fat side of the racks with mustard and then rock back and forth in the breadcrumb-herb mixture until you have a nice thick coating. Turn the racks over and fill any gaps with any excess mixture. Transfer to the oven (180°C) for 10-14

Visit isleof w ig htmeat.co.u k

minutes* or until the middle hits 55°C for perfect pink lamb. Remove from the oven and rest for 10 minutes. Then very carefully and gently cut between the bones into individual cutlets. Serve with some pea and mint mash, spring vegetables and crisp roast potatoes. *Oven temperatures and size of racks vary so adjust accordingly. We recommend using a temperature probe such as the Meater to achieve very accurate, consistent cooking. March and April 2021

HAND-CRAFTED ON THE ISLE OF WIGHT

FREE YOUR SPIRIT I S L E O F W I G H T D I S T I L L E R Y.C O M | +4 4 (0) 1 9 8 3 61 3 6 5 3

Food | STYLE

Seasonal vegetable By Wi l l Stewa rd, Liv i ng La rder

Mustard greens

diverse species of plant in the brassica family – hence its willingness to grow through the cold winter months and into spring. Its peppery flavour is often found in salads, but it is less commonly grown for cooking. It is a staple of our growing year and a personal favourite cooked with leeks and white fish. Its origin is in oriental cooking and it shares many similarities with its better-known Pak Choi and Bok Choi cousins. Unlike many brassicas, the stalk is the ‘main event’ of this unusual green as it adds juiciness and crunch to many an oriental-styled soup or broth.

Mustard greens with lemongrass and chilli Ingredients 400g of mustard greens 2 cloves of garlic – finely sliced 1 red chilli – finely sliced 1 stalk of lemongrass – central part only finely sliced 1 tsp of ground turmeric 1 tbsp of sesame oil 1 tbsp of dark soy sauce 2 tbsp of fish sauce 2 tbsp of lime juice 1 tsp of honey Method

leaves were small so we kept them whole. Heat the sesame oil in a large frying pan – add the grated garlic, lemon grass, chilli and turmeric – gently fry until it smells cooked, add the mustard leaves and stir fry until they are softened. Mix together the remaining ingredients (soy sauce, fish sauce, lime juice and honey) add to the frying pan – stir through and serve immediately with some sticky white rice.

Wash your mustard greens well – no need to remove the midribs as they give a nice crunch once cooked; our March and April 2021

...a perfect Island escape

LUNCH

12.30pm til 2.30pm Wednesday to Sunday

AFTERNOON TEA

2pm to 4pm (24hrs notice required)

EVENING DINING

6pm to 9.30pm Tuesday to Saturday

BAR OPEN DAILY

from11am non residents welcome

Hambrough Road Ventnor PO38 1SQ Tel: 01983 856333 www.thehambrough.com

Food | STYLE

Slide into spring with a Singapore Sling

With Merma id Gin This gently spark ling scarlet refresher is a classic turn of the century cock tai l; perfect for ushering in the brighter – and fruitier – days to come.

Ingredients 25ml Mermaid Gin 25ml cherry liqueur 25ml Benedictine 50ml pineapple juice 25ml lime juice Angostura Bitters Soda water Method Mix Mermaid Gin, Cherry Liqueur, Benedictine and Bitters with ice until the glass cools. Pour into a tall glass, top up with pineapple, lime and soda. To garnish: a segment of pineapple and a cherry

@ merma idg i n

March and April 2021

Caffe Isola &

The

Chapel STreet

Roastery artisan cafe, roastery & independant retail 85a St James St, Newport

info@caffe-isola.co.uk Tel: 01983 524800 the home of

island roasted artisan coffee from the isle of wight

www.islandroasted.co.uk

Food | STYLE

FREE Artisan Coffee When you take an annual subscription to Style of Wight Magazine There’s no better pairing than a good magazine and a great cup of coffee. That’s why Style of Wight has teamed up w ith the coffee experts at Island Roasted to offer our readers the best of both

Bea n to cup provena nce prof i le Isla nd Roasted have been work i n g w ith sma l l-sca le Hondu ra n producer Leidy Ch i nch i l la for f ive yea rs now. From thei r h i g h-a ltitude m icro fa rm of just 0.7 hecta res i n La Labor, ea ch yea r’s crop of just 10 sa ck s is produced exclusively for Isla nd Roasted – mea n i n g you won’t f i nd th is coffee a ny where else i n the world!

Style of Wight Tasti ng Notes: Hondu ras Fi nca Deep a nd chocolatey w it h a honeyed sweet ness, crea my body a nd cr i sp a cid ity. Smoot h a nd ea sy d r i n k i n g.

The Style of Wight single origin organic certified coffee is small batch roasted on the Isle of Wight. Working closely to understand our brand, Master Roaster Dan Burgess of Island Roasted selected three stylish flavour profiles for Team Style to choose from, giving careful guidance on everything from aroma associations to sugar browning and sipping techniques. Luckily, the vote was unanimous.

Leidy Ch i nch i l la i n herited the fa rm f rom her g ra nd mother, a nd a lthou g h her ma i n i ncome is f rom coffee, she a lso g rows ba na nas, l i mes a nd ma n goes. T he sem itropica l cl i mate a nd rich volca n ic soi l a re the perfect combi nation for sha deg row i n g her Pa cas a nd Catu i coffee pla nts. W hen at opti mu m ripeness, the coffee cherries wh ich house the bea ns a re picked ca ref u l ly by ha nd, before bei n g washed for 24 hou rs a nd d ried i n g reen houses.

To take advantage of this offer visit our website ‘About us’ page and complete the application

styleofwight.co.uk

March and April 2021

STYLE | Feature

Above and below: The scrap yard in the Sea Street premises, where the foundry was located

Hurst – how it a ll began Everyone on the Island knows the name of Hurst – or ‘Hursts’ as it is colloquially known. Who hasn’t found exactly what they were looking for amongst the shelves of this old-style and yet bang up-to-date store? It has been with us as long as we can remember, but when did it start and what is the story of this well-known and much-revered Island company and brand? 66

styleofwight.co.uk

Hurst and Son was started by Charles Wheeler in 1859 as a foundry concentrating on agricultural implement manufacture, servicing and repairs for the Island’s booming farming industry. At this time, it was based at Pan Foundry, near the old mill at Pan Bridge, and the company also acted as agent for D.M. Osbourne & Co.’s “celebrated Kirby mowers and reapers”. In 1886 Charles Wheeler purchased 33, Holyrood Street, which remains Hurst’s main Island premises to this day, although it has now expanded along the length of the road from Crocker Street to Lugley Street. It was originally

the Primitive Methodist Chapel and the original flagstones from the church forecourt still form part of the flooring in the tool shop department. At this time, the foundry was moved to Sea Street and the Holyrood store was set up as offices and a showroom for the sale of ironmongery and other products cast at the foundry. In 1891, William Hurst joined the company and the present name was adopted. Most of the manhole covers, drain covers and other heavy metal coverings on the Island were made by the company at this time and onwards. If you have an old home, check your drain covers and you will probably find the name Hurst on them. Or when you

Feature | STYLE

33 Holyrood Street: this tumbledown house bought in 1886 is the flagship store and one of six across the Island

If you have a n old home, check you r d ra i n covers a nd you w i l l probably f i nd the na me Hu rst on them. Or when you a re wa l k i ng dow n the road, notice the Hu rst na me on older ma n hole a nd street d ra i n covers.

are walking down the road, notice the Hurst name on older manhole and street drain covers. At this time, the stock included a range of products from fencing and gates to furnace bars and bakers’ oven works. Kitchen ranges and troughs lined one wall while larger agricultural machinery such as steam and horse-powered chaff cutters, mills, separators, ploughs and harrows filled the showroom.

Various workshops were equipped for their different purposes with iron and brass foundries turning out castings of all descriptions, shapes and sizes. The business passed from the Hurst family on the death of William in 1950 and is now a limited company. One of the mainstays of the company was the supply and servicing of milking machines for the Island’s 200-plus dairy herds and, up until the 1960s, it continued to trade almost

solely with the farming community. It also operated as a blacksmith’s forge with three farriers shoeing shire horses from the prison and paring cart-oxen’s hooves. Hurst began to expand from the 1960s to 1997, opening a further five stores Island-wide in Ventnor, Ryde, Cowes, Freshwater and Shanklin, and these six shops now employ 81 people. This expansion was down to the great leadership skills of Harry Chivers March and April 2021

STYLE | Feature

Directors through the years left to right are Robin Mclaughlin, Harry Chivers and David Bowley

and Robin McLaughlin as Managing Directors, which is where their legacy continues, with all Hurst’s stores still having a strong presence on the high street today. Also, in the 1960s, Hurst became a Calor Gas supplier, and older readers may remember the many Calor Gas bottles stored in their Sea Street premises, and their distinctive Calor Gas delivery vans. Currently Calor Gas is only available from their Ryde store. Although Hursts have remained as an Ironmongers, the company gradually expanded its product ranges over the years to follow the current trends, such as lighting, china, glass, housewares,

styleofwight.co.uk

gardening, and outdoor living. The stores now boast over 25,000 product lines to choose from, and a wide range of different areas, from hammers and nails, crockery and tableware, irons and toasters, to barbecues and camping gear. The Newport store holds all items they sell, as it is the largest store. All the other stores sell more or less what Newport have, but just not so many items from each range. However, items can be ordered from other stores and picked up at the store closest to you. With such diverse product ranges the company believes this has forged the Hurst culture today of ‘Housewares and Hardware

for All’, with each department in store designed to suit the customer. Speaking of customers, there have been a few famous faces in the Hurst stores over the years. Celebrity gardener Alan Titchmarsh was a regular customer – perhaps for his gardening needs – and the staff of Prince Charles, Prince of Wales, contacted Hurst and purchased items for his Highgrove Estate. They have even had a visit from Rap royalty as when Jay Z performed at the Isle of Wight Festival in 2010, he dropped in to purchase some wellies! After taking over from Robin McLaughlin, David Bowley was

Feature | STYLE

Foundry workers circa 1904

instrumental in introducing the Hurst’s online store (www.hurst-iw.co.uk) in 2006, which has grown from strength to strength over the years, with many loyal returning customers. Just take a look at their Trust Pilot reviews, which will tell you all you need to know. Of course, Hurst is also known for its personal service. If you regularly shop in Hursts the staff will usually know you by name, and their staff members stay with the company for long periods of time. Quite a few have been with the store from leaving school until they retire. The atmosphere is friendly and personable, and if you ask for help you always have top customer service, and they’ll almost always have exactly

what you need. They also offer helpful advice and suggest items you might require for a specific job. As their motto says: “Try Hurst First!”

market. Hurst may only be a small independent company with six stores on the Isle of Wight but, as they say, never underestimate the underdog!

The current Managing Director, Peter Hartnell, is steering the company in a great direction, with many strategic changes, which will ensure the company continues to thrive in today’s market and long into the future.

So, if you’re looking for the best choice of brands at affordable prices and good old fashioned customer service, look no further… Try Hurst First

As a long-standing independent company, not only do Hursts understand the importance of quality, they strive to be competitive on pricing in store and online. On many occasions they are cheaper than the main contenders in today’s retail

Opened i n: 1859 Sta r ted as: A Fou nd r y Now has: Si x shops Employs: 82 people

March and April 2021

Professional and personal yoga training in the art of living contact us

islandschoolofyoga@gmail.com 07880558599 www.islandschoolofyoga.com

new wardrobe...new season...new you

ryde cowes online ryde 63 union street

63 union street

tel. 810581

123 high street

tel. 292966

www.mia-uk.com

newport 20 st. thomas square

Fashion | STYLE

Springfashion

As we stride ahead into 2021 there is plenty to look forward to. So why not step out in style with some of the new season’s latest trends and fashion tips with Visual Impact

Perfect Prints No particular patterns could be considered “out” for 2021 and there’s a great deal of freedom when it comes to jazzing up your daily wardrobe with all manner of motifs. Stripes, polka-dots, florals…. if it’s printed and you like it, wear it.

Nautical/all white Fashionistas are pushing ‘shipster’ as the knowingly ironic name for this upcoming trend. A staple for the nautical nods are Breton stripes, fisherman beanies and the indomitable deck shoe. This summer we will see a transition into all white outfits with a splash of blue.

Tiered Dress Also known as the prairie and peasant dress, the smock dress is perfect whether you’re working from home or having a much-needed picnic with your girls. Wherever you may be going, this chic look is truly “down for whatever”. Team with skinny or straight leg denim jeans - raw hems and rips work really well.

Lightweight bombers The Bomber Jacket is synonymous with the cold and blustery conditions of winter, however this summer we see brands combining the shape with lighter weight fabrics to create a transitional piece perfect for bright spring days and chilly summer evenings.

visualimpact.co.uk

March and April 2021

WELLBEING & MEDI SPA

Quality & Style Since 1985

Setting the Style for 2021 RALPH LAUREN, BARBOUR, TED BAKER, PART TWO, LEVIS, FRENCH CONNECTION, DIESEL, GANT, NUDIE JEANS, LYLE & SCOTT, PRETTY GREEN,YAYA, FRED PERRY, NYDJ, SCOTCH & SODA, NICCE, TAMARIS, HUDSON, SHOE THE BEAR, LOAKES SHOEMAKERS

Ti m e t o R e v i v e, R e f r e s h & Refocus

New for 2021 - The Natural Approach Facial Using Natural, Organic, Vegan Products from ESPA, we have created a wonderfully luxurious bespoke treatment to achieve beautiful skin, naturally.

Helping to improve your Health and Wellbeing. Our experts will focus on restoring you to optimum skin health and body wellness. Come and experience our tranquil oasis in the heart of Cowes

Ladieswear

3/4 Watchbell Lane Newport I.O.W. PO30 5XU telephone 01983 525665 Menswear

21 Holyrood Street Newport I.O.W. PO30 5AZ telephone 01983 821908 www.visualimpact.co.uk

01983 296655 8 Birmingham Road • Cowes • P031 7BH info@becalmedincowes.co.uk www.becalmedincowes.co.uk

Health and Beauty | STYLE

F R E S H S TA RT

EXERCISE CLASSES

By Ca rol i ne Hu rley I.I.H.H.T. A RT( R eg) W EL L BEI NG PR ACTITION ER AT BECA L M ED

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

The human body is an absolutely wonderful thing, capable of fighting disease, repairing damaged cells, and organising its own daily maintenance programme, but we need to give it a helping hand. Many have struggled this winter and have gone into hibernation mode, eating more, exercising less, and getting less sunlight and fresh air, so perhaps we need to give ourselves a bit of a spring clean ready to emerge after lockdown. There are few self-care rituals that calm both our minds and our complexions as well as an at-home facial does. Especially when it feels almost as good as the real thing, thanks to a few choice tips I can pass on to you. Relax: Create the perfect atmosphere, light a candle, dim the lights, and put on some relaxing music. Prepare: Before you do anything to your face, you need to start with a clean canvas, so cleanse your skin well. I recommend ESPA’s Optimal Skin ProCleanser. This easy-touse product is a cleanser and exfoliator. Perfect for revealing beautifully clean, nourished and visibly radiant skin. Follow with a refreshing and revitalising spritz of your favourite Spafresh toner. Massage: Facial massage really does work wonders, stimulating circulation and promoting a healthy glow. Reach for your favourite Face Treatment Oil and warm a few drops in the palm of your hands. Apply to your face and massage using upward movements. Then apply a mask such as Skin Radiance and sit back, relax for 10-15 minutes, and enjoy all the lovely aromas that are surrounding you. Relax and rejuvenate: Warm up a couple of damp flannels and use to remove your mask. Using a couple of cotton pads soaked in Spa fresh, wipe over the skin to remove any residue of the mask. Now it is time to hydrate. You can use targeted products for your eyes if you have them to hand and an also anti-aging serum at this point. Then finish off gently patting your favourite moisturiser all over your face, forehead, neck and décolleté. So, if you are longing for an ESPA facial and cannot wait until we open again, or just simply crave an indulgent skincare treat in the comfort of your own home, retreat to the bathroom with this facial ritual and reawaken naturally beautiful, radiantly healthy skin.

Whether you’re a runner, HIIT lover, or yogi, finding your exercise tribe can be game-changing for your health and fitness. How to tell if you’ve found ‘the one’. You look forward to it - Waking up excited to exercise or looking forward to finishing work so that you can get to your virtual class is a sign you’re on the right track. Work out what you need. Is it community, fresh air or maybe a great playlist? It makes exercise fun - There are enough different types of exercise and physical activity to find one that is fun for you. Hate running? You don’t have to do it to get fit. Be led by what you enjoy and you’ll never dread exercise again. Your instructor makes you feel supported - Seek out the type of instructor that makes you feel good and encourages you. We’re all different and we all respond to different types of instruction. Find what works for you, shop around! It helps you move closer to your goals - You are more likely to stick with something if it works. When researching different options, be sure to check that the exercise does what you want it to do. For example, HIIT classes won’t get you as strong as resistance training and yoga won’t get you fit. You feel like you fit in - Feeling like you belong somewhere, whether as part of a Facebook group, run club or online membership and having your needs accommodated is extremely powerful. Find somewhere you feel like you fit in and exercise can become a social activity, as well as a means to live a healthy life. It’s not about a particular class, exercise type or instructor being superior. What matters is that YOU enjoy it. Because enjoyment leads to consistency; and that matters the most. Kim helps people build strong, robust bodies so they can run further and faster without getting injured. To find out more about her Run Strong membership, visit www.thekimfitway.com/home-based-workouts or follow her on Instagram @kimfitbath. March and April 2021

STYLE | Family Feature

It’s not just h ibernati ng hedgehogs who a re emerg i ng from a long w i nter nap: morn i ng has f i na l ly broken a nd we a re so ver y ready for a l l the ma ny del ights of Spri ng. Th is happy col lection of featu res is f u l l of th i ngs to ma ke, read, spot, a nd buy as we look for wa rd to the longer a nd brighter days a head on ou r beauti f u l Isla nd.

Tell your story with top writing tips from the IW Story Festival – pages 86-87

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Rebel Beauty for Teens: WIN a copy of this fabulous guided journal – pages 88-89

Become a Hedgehog Champion – pages 81

Family Feature | STYLE

Activity:

natura lly dyed Easter eggs Th is i n f i n itely-Insta g ra m mable activ ity has been on ou r ‘wholesome Easter hol iday activ ity’ l ist for a wh i le now; th is yea r, we’re ma k i ng it happen – happi ly forfeiti ng on ion eyes a nd tu rmeric f i ngerna i ls i n determ i ned pu rsu it of that qu i ntessentia l sy mbol of spri ng: a bright a nd beauti f u l bowl of natu ra l ly dyed Easter eggs.

s we’ve discovered, dyeing eggs using everyday ingredients – with not an artificial colour in sight – is part science, part art. Online (we scoured Pinterest so you don’t have to) you will find colour swatches, wheels and charts galore; personally, we think the best rainbows are a little off-kilter, and experimentation yields the most satisfying results. With that in mind, the Style of Wight team have compiled their own fully customisable guide to creating your own basket full of naturally dyed Easter eggs. The process 1. Fill a saucepan with your chosen dye matter (e.g. cabbage, turmeric, onion skin), cover with water and bring to the boil. Turn the heat to low and simmer until the colour has deepened (up to an hour). 2. Remove the dye from the heat and cool to room temperature. 3. Pour cooled dye through a mesh

strainer into individual bowls or jars and add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar for each cup of dye liquid to help set the colour. 4. Add cooled hard-boiled eggs to the dye and refrigerate to infuse until desired colour is reached; remove and gently pat dry. 5. Take photos (obviously). Eat and enjoy!

Colour guide

White onion skins orange to burnt terracotta Red onion skins lavender to red Beetroot pink to maroon Red cabbage green to blue Coffee sepia to mocha Chamomile tea scotch butter to daffodil yellow Turmeric sunshine to mustard Blueberries soft dusk to duck egg

Top tips

Naturally dyed eggs have a matte finish. For a little more lustre, rub with a drop or two of coconut or olive oil Remember that colour deepens with time: a three-hour cabbage soak will result in a lovely powdery blue; leave it overnight for a richer teal Pale colours work best on white eggs; brown eggs are good for creating darker hues March and April 2021

STYLE | Family Feature

Bespoke mud kitchen Cotton string rainbow

Handcrafted from reclaimed wood or pressure-treated timber, with real working tap for endless mud soup/petal pie creations.

We’re totally under the spell of this dreamy rainbow wall hanging.

From £75, Al’s Workshop IW, Bembridge

£12, Pocket Full of Pebbles, Cowes

Facebook: @alsworkshopiw

Facebook: @pocketfullofpebbles

Style picks

Junior

A miniature stack of springtime ‘wants’ for your extended tribe, handpicked by the Style Team from a selection of Isle of Wight makers, shakers, and independent retailers.

Classic Wyatt & Jack design for mini folk: each one of these teeny rucksacks is completely unique and made to order – for (sustainable) spring strolls.

Peter Rabbit placemats

£39, Wyatt & Jack Junior

With dippy-egg resistant surface for Easter morning and every morning after.

Instagram: @wyattandjack_junior

£24.95, Hursts Instagram: @tryhurstfirst

Mini rainbow rolltop rucksack

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Family Feature | STYLE

Organic footed leggings Handmade on the Isle of Wight from organic jersey cotton, these footed leggings will keep foxy toes toasty. Available from newborn to 18 months. From £14, Zoe + Zach Instagram: @zoe.andzach

Bright yellow wellies

Island Babe sweatshirt Supersoft and made to order, we love the simple pastel designs of these cosy Island-inspired jumpers; perfect for the longer and lighter days to come. Available in ages 2-12.

Make a splash and support our local lifeboat crews and stations at the same time in these super-sunny welly boots with classic sailing stripes. Available in ages 2 – 8. £15, RNLI – shop.rnli.org Instagram: @rnli

£18, Mint + Wight Instagram: @mintandwight

BigJigs garden tool belt For budding gardeners and aspiring smallholders. £6.99, The Sports Shop, Shanklin thesportshop.co

Bunny shelf This cuter-than-cute nursery shelf is crafted from paulownia wood; known in Japanese mythology as The Princess Tree and traditionally gifted on the birth of a baby girl. £31.50, BouChic, Ryde Instagram: @bou.chic March and April 2021

STYLE | Family Feature

Spring wildlife spotting with The People’s Trust for Enda ngered Species

As sleepy creatu res awa ken a nd dorma nt w i ld l i fe sti rs, now is the perfect ti me to sit up a nd ta ke notice of the l i fe happen i ng right outside ou r w i ndows

Sadly, many of Britain’s mammals are under threat, but recording sightings of the species we spot in our own gardens can help conservationists protect their future. Starting from the 29th March, wildlife charity People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) is calling for volunteers to take part in its annual Living with Mammals survey to build a clear picture of how our wildlife is changing. From red squirrels and red foxes, to hedgerow dormice and handsome hedgehogs, here are some of the wildlife you might just spot when you look closely and quietly:

Image credit: Dave Bevan

Rabbits

Image credit: Ronnie Stokes

Watch i n g baby rabbits – wh ich a re ca l led k itten s – f rol ic a nd h ave f u n i n t he f i rst f lu shes of spr i n g i s a wonder f u l t h i n g. A lt hou g h t he w i ld rabbit popu lat ion i s la rge, it h a s fa l len si g n i f ica nt ly over t he la st ten yea rs, so it’s v it a l t h at we keep a caut iou s eye on nu mbers.

Red squirrels

Here on t he Isla nd, we a re except iona l ly luck y to be able to spot ou r nat ive – yet enda n gered – red squ i r rels f rom ou r k itchen w i ndows. It’s st i l l rea l ly i mpor t a nt to note t hese si g ht i n gs, so t h at t hey a re fed i nto nat iona l dat a sets. Squ i r rels h ave supersen sit ive hea r i n g, so a lways watch t hei r a nt ics f rom a sa fe d i st a nce so you don’t d i stu rb t hem.

Hazel dormouse

Image credit: Clare Pengelly

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T h i n k you rsel f ver y luck y i ndeed i f you ma nage to spot a shy l ittle dormouse emerg i n g f rom its lon g w i nter nap. Record i n g you r si g hti n g w i l l mea n that scientists ca n tr y to u ndersta nd how cl i mate cha n ge m i g ht be a ffecti n g h ibernation patterns.

Family Feature | STYLE

Red fox T hou g h you’re more l i kely to encou nter Fa nt a st ic M r. Fox at n i g ht, day t i me ga rden si g ht i n gs a re per fect ly possible – i n t he spr i n g t i me, you m i g ht even catch si g ht of you n g cubs. A ma zi n g ly, foxes com mu n icate w it h ea ch ot her u si n g up to 28 g roups of sou nd s, a s wel l a s fa cia l ex pression s, body postu res a nd scent ma rk i n gs.

Image credit: iStockphoto.com & Artsiom Malashenko

Bats

T he Isle of Wi g ht i s home to ma ny of t he U K’s enda n gered bat species, i nclud i n g t he P ipi st rel le bat, wh ich i s sma l l enou g h to f it i nto a matchbox. Best seen a f ter du sk, t he P ipi st rel le i s of ten seen a rou nd st reet l i g ht i n g, or feed i n g on t i ny i n sects above ga rden pond s.

Image credit: Graham Williams, for People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES)

Badgers A lt hou g h t hese ex per t tu n nel a rch itects a re not cu r rent ly t h reatened for natu ra l rea son s, ba d gers fa ce ma n-ma de t h reats f rom gover n ment cu l l i n g prog ra m mes, wh ich a lso i mpa ct t he food ch a i n a nd w ider ecolog y. To f i nd out more about how you ca n protect t hese beaut i f u l a n i ma ls, v i sit ptes.org Image credit: Seth Jackson

Hedgehogs

Become a hedgehog cha mpion Get your garden Hedgehog ready with these top tips from wildlife charities People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS): • Create Hedgehog Highways; link your garden with 13cm gaps in fences to allow hedgehogs access to as many neighbouring gardens as possible. • Leave a patch of the garden wild and undisturbed, providing nesting materials and insect prey. • Leave out food and water; meaty cat or dog food will supplement a hedgehog’s natural diet of creepy crawlies. Don’t forget a shallow dish of clean fresh water too. • Create safe nesting sites with a log pile or more structured hedgehog house . • Make sure your pond has shallow sides or an escape ramp. • Remove litter and tie up loose garden netting to prevent hedgehogs getting tangled and trapped. • Stop using chemicals, lawn treatments and slug pellets.

T hese much-loved spi ny creatu res a re i n trouble, but u nderst a nd i n g why i s compl icated. L i ke a l l ma m ma ls, t hey need plenty of food a nd shelter for nests, a s wel l a s pla ces to h ide f rom predators. Luck i ly, t here a re lots of pra ct ica l t h i n gs you ca n do to be a hed gehog helper, i nclud i n g record i n g a ny si g ht i n gs w it h t he L iv i n g w it h Ma m ma ls su r vey.

• Check areas carefully before strimming/mowing to avoid nasty accidents. • Take care with bonfires; build or move a bonfire on the day of burning so that there are no hidden hedgehogs inside. Image credit: Stephen Oliver

To ta ke pa r t i n the 2021 Liv i ng w ith Ma m ma ls su r vey, v isit ptes.org/LwM or record you r ma m ma l photos on socia l med ia usi ng #Liv i ngWith Ma m ma ls March and April 2021

STYLE | Family Feature

Family foraging oraging Th is Spri ng we’re putti ng the pu r pose back i nto ou r fa m i ly wa l ks: d iscoveri ng (a nd red iscoveri ng) the joy f u l abu nda nce of w i ld food that g rows across ou r Isla nd’s coastl i ne a nd cou ntr yside, from ha rbou r wa l ls to wood la nd f loors

Recipe idea:

in season: wild garlic Wild garlic is the perfect starter find, not just because it grows particularly abundantly here on the Island, but also because you’ll smell it before you see it! Trust your nose; its fragrant garlicky scent will rule out any mistaken identity with the poisonous Lily-of-the-Valley.

There are many things you can theoretically do with wild garlic, but cooking with younger children might not be the time to attempt a twice-baked soufflé. Instead, for an easy midweek ‘pasta pesto’, simply add your wild garlic leaves (washed), some hazelnuts (a handful), olive oil (a glug), and lemon juice (a squeeze) to a food processor – bickering over whose turn it is to press the button optional – and whizz together before stirring through their pasta shape du jour.

Tel l me where: w i ld ga rl ic ca n be fou nd i n a l most ever y wooded a rea a cross t he i sla nd – g ua ra nteed spots i nclude Shor wel l Shute a nd Br idd lesford Copse.

in season: seaweed Technically edible all year round, the morning after a spring storm offers up a freshnessguaranteed time to forage for this seaside superfood. With so many varieties, deciding what to pick and how to prepare it can be overwhelming, so here are just two of our favourites.

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Recipe ideas:

Sea lettuce – easily identifiable as a rather limp-looking but very bright green lettuce leaf – can be found mostly attached to rocks or in rockpools, and makes an excellent colourful topping on homemade pizza.

Tel l me where: a ny bea ch t h at h a s rock pools ex posed at low t ide – t h i n k Bembr id ge over Ryde, a nd Colwel l Bay over Sa ndow n.

Sugar kelp – when baked into crinkly crisps on a very low heat and seasoned with some Isle of Wight sea salt and rosemary from the garden – makes a viable (and packaging free!) Pom-Bear alternative.

Family Feature eature | STYLE

in season: sea beet Sea beet is, in fact, not a ‘beet’ at all, but more like a sturdier and shinier wild spinach that grows robustly along our coastal paths, on saltmarshes and near shingle beaches.

Recipe idea: Tel l me where: for u s, sea beet mea n s St. Helen s; t hou g h it ca n be fou nd on, a rou nd, a nd above most of ou r coa st a l h au nts – f rom F reshwater Bay to New tow n.

A bit tough for kids to eat as a standalone vegetable, sea beet deserves a special mention for making the perfect spring green soup when slowly simmered together with vegetable stock and coconut milk.

in season: dandelions Dandelions really are the superheroes of spring: bursting with cheer, boisterously blooming all over the place the second winter is behind us. And best of all? Completely edible, from stalk to flower. Of course, all the normal rules apply – never eat anything grown where it might have been sprayed with pesticides – but dandelions are so plentiful that parents don’t have to worry about over-enthusiastic pickers depleting nature’s own stocks.

Recipe idea:

We like to save the leaves for the pet guinea pigs, and scatter the saffronyellow petals for an almost Holi-like decoration on springveg risotto.

Tel l me where: no map needed (i n fa ct, it’s probably more helpf u l to say where NOT to f i nd da ndel ion s; go w i ld i n f ield s, ga rden s a nd natu re reser ves, not t he pavement).

Golden rules of foraging • Foraging is fun, not a free-for-all: take only what you really need – from plentiful populations – and leave plenty behind for the birds and other wildlife. • Pick sparingly from public spaces or common ground; the Woodland Trust, for example, allows foraging for personal use, but always check to make sure you’re not on privately owned land. • Steer clear of well-trodden dog-walking paths (for obvious reasons), roadsides and houseboat-populated harbours – many plants absorb pollutants from the surrounding earth, air and water. • If in any doubt, take a picture and consult an illustrated guide (or download a plant identification app) before eating – aim for 101% certainty.

March and April 2021

STYLE | Family Feature

A day i n the li fe of a

Dairy farmer Come ra i n or sh i ne, lockdow n or not: a fa rmer’s work is never done. Here, the tea m at Wootton Bridge’s Br idd lesford Lodge Fa rm g ive us a u n ique beh i nd-the-gate look at the da i ly routi nes of the ‘best job i n the world’

very day at 4.30am it’s time to get the cows in for milking. It’s still dark outside, and we’re often too busy to notice when the sun comes up at 6:30!

First, we check the late pregnancy mums in the maternity ward: sometimes, there’s an unannounced baby calf or even twins and occasionally we have to be midwife too. As the noisy milking machines rattle into life, the eager cows jostle to get into the parlour first. Here they have some tasty ‘cattle cake’ as they happily let their milk down. Our pedigree Guernseys average 20 litres of rich creamy milk per day. Ten cows can be milked at a time, with each cow taking between 5 and 10 minutes. When the last of the 150-cow herd has been milked, we clean down the

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parlour and the fresh milk is taken around to the processing dairy, for pasteurisation, bottling, or cheese and butter-making. In the springtime, the cows go straight out to grass, and we get on with feeding more than 50 hungry – and noisy – calves before they snuggle down in their cosy straw beds. Finally, after around six hours work, it’s time for our own breakfast – a cappuccino and bacon bap from our very own Bluebells Café!

Here at Briddlesford, we can’t wait to welcome you all back, to see what we do – on our ‘Welly Wednesday’ tours or school trips – and enjoy the hospitality of our staff in Bluebells Café. Meanwhile, please don’t forget to visit our farm shop, where you can see some baby calves and buy delicious dairy products from our beloved cows. briddlesford.co.uk

After breakfast, there’s more work: tractors must be greased and serviced ready for dung spreading, plus plenty of field work – from fencing to ditching – to keep on top of. At about 3pm, the cows come back to the parlour for the second milking of the day. It’s a long day, but fulfilling work, and when the weather is fine, it can seem like the best job in the world.

Image credits: Julian Winslow

three

Family Feature | STYLE

Adventures to the power of with the Isle of Wight Triplets

weather – just to get them all to nap at the same time! Then we’d rush home, get the kettle on and breathe a sigh of relief until the first one woke and the relentless feeding and nappy changing would start all over again.” Since then, she has amassed a following of almost 50,000 people from all over the world, sharing snippets of their daily lives and adventures at home and all around our beautiful Island.

Image credit: Jennifer Stone

Family life on the Isle of Wight is triple the fun with three boys in tow

Si x yea rs a go, Tori Stratton a nd her husba nd A ndy lef t thei r London l ives beh i nd; buy i ng a pictu reperfect cotta ge dow n a cou ntr y la ne i n r u ra l Cowes i n a nticipation of a la id-back fa m i ly l i fe on the Isla nd where they both g rew up

ut neither of them imagined – as they found out during Tori’s 12-week pregnancy scan – that their family would be expanding quite so much, quite so quickly. Today, their cosy cottage is filled with three sets of everything: from splash suits and superhero costumes to wellies and water bottles. Identical triplet brothers Ollie, Jakey and Toby are now four, and will start school this September. The boys were born prematurely and spent six weeks in hospital before coming home: and it was during those very early days of motherhood that Tori started using Instagram as a way of recording both the boys’ milestones and their journey as a family of five. “Only 0.03% of all births in the UK

The triplets attract comment and attention wherever they go. “We would often meet the same people who would look in at them, remarking on how much they’d grown,” says Tori. She is grateful for the strong sense of community on the Island: when the boys were younger, Sainsburys designed a bespoke ‘triplet trolley’ so that she could do her weekly shop in their Newport stores. On what she calls her ‘days off’ from parenting, Tori works in an emergency triaging role for the Isle of Wight Ambulance service; a continuation of her 14-year career as an NHS paramedic. “I love my job more than ever” she says, having worked continuously throughout the Covid-19 pandemic response. “I’m immensely proud to be part of such a strong team.”

Three is the magic number for the Stratton family

are triplets,” says Tori, “so it’s been wonderful to connect with other ‘multiple mums’ through social media, and support each other through what can be an overwhelming and unusual parenting journey.” Tori recalls how “for the first two years we would push our triplet pram up and down our bumpy lane two or three times a day – whatever the

The Island, Tori says, is the perfect place to raise a young family. “I don’t doubt the triplets will have a very strong connection to the Island throughout their lives. “I hope we manage to make them feel secure enough in their upbringing to have the confidence to leave and travel the world, but to recognise the value of home.” Fol low t he t r iplets’ jou r ney on I n st a g ra m @i sleof w i g ht _t r iplets

March and April 2021

Children’s

Writing Competition 2021 T wo months i n, we have a l ready beg u n to receive some wonderf u l entries to ou r Ch i ld ren’s Writi ng Competition 2021. But don’t worr y – there’s plenty of ti me lef t i f you’ve not yet sta r ted.

id you know that all profits from the final illustrated anthology will go to local children’s charity the IW Story Festival? Although a physical event was not possible this year, organisers welcomed a fabulous line-up of children’s authors in a four-day festival of online talks and interactive live sessions back in February half-term.

We all have a story to tell “Stories make the world utterly brilliant. It’s through stories that we develop compassion for other people’s lives. If you’ve got a story you want to tell, make sure you save it up in your heart and one day you can write it down and share it with the world.” - Cerrie Burnell, activist, actor, CBeebies presenter and author of ‘I Am Not a Label’, an illustrated anthology exploring the lives of 34 disabled artists, thinkers, athletes and activists from past and present.

So, if you’re still waiting for inspiration to strike or have an idea but don’t know quite how to start, here are some top IW Story Festival tips to help spark, develop and polish your story-in-waiting.

Map it out “Drawing a map is a really useful way to get your imagination started and develop your story. Think about the world you want to create: is there lots of ice and snow? Are there lots of little islands? Are there mountain ranges, forests, volcanoes or caves? Where do your characters live?” - Kieran Larwood is the awardwinning (and Island-based) author of The Peculiars and The Five Realms series. He took setting inspiration for his new book – Uki and the Swamp Spirit – from local landscapes including Brading marshes and Newtown Creek.

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Plot a journey “Your characters should always go on a journey – whether literal or emotional. Every time you write a story, try and ask yourself ‘what does my character really want?’ and ‘what is stopping them from getting it?’ throughout their journey.” - Roopa Farooki is an award-winning author of six novels for adults, NHS Junior Doctor, mother of four, and lecturer in creative writing at the University of Oxford. Her middle-grade series ‘The Double Detectives Medical Mysteries’ features twins Ali and Tulip, inspired by her own twin girls.

Be more Picasso “Whenever Picasso does something different, people say “No! No! No! Picasso!” But Picasso doesn’t listen, and he became the greatest – and richest – artist in the world.” - Nicholas Allan is the bestselling picture book author of The Queen’s Knickers and many more. His latest book – Picasso’s Trousers – celebrates the life and art of this creative genius.

Research, research, research

Create space to write

Let poetry be your prompt “Poetry books are lovely things to read to get the imagination going.” - Neal Layton is the award-winning children’s author and illustrator of many books, including ‘A Planet Full of Plastic’, perfect for inspiring young environmentalists.

“Have a special place to keep all your writing and art. Make it your own. Fill it with your favourite things. If you like going there you’ll go there more often – and that means more writing, more reading, and more drawing. And one day, you might write and illustrate a whole book there!” - Eve McDonnell is a children’s book writer and artist based halfway up a hill in Co. Wexford, Ireland. Her timetravelling adventure novel Elsetime was inspired by the Great Flood of London in 1928.

“I think research is really important when you’re writing about history. Try and find what historians call a primary source – you could read books, listen to archive recordings, watch films, look at maps, or even interview people who were there at the time.” - Tom Palmer, author of 52 children’s books about history and sport. He has won 20 prizes including the Children’s Book Award and Ruth Rendell Prize.

Feeling inspired? To enter your 500-word story in the Style of Wight Children’s Writing Competition, send via snail mail to Style of Wight, 8 Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road, Ventnor, Isle of Wight, PO38 1EJ or email features@styleofwight.co.uk

Sponsored by: ROBIN MCINNES OBE March and April 2021

STYLE | Family Feature

Rebel Beauty

for Teens

It’s not easy bei ng a teen. Especia l ly today. From the labels we g ive ou rselves to the idea ls we measu re ou rselves a ga i nst, Betha n Ch ristopher’s latest book ‘Rebel Beauty for Teens’ g ives you ng women the perm ission a nd tools they need to rip up the r u lebook a nd def i ne thei r ow n bra nd, on thei r ow n u n ique terms.

ethan began writing at the beginning of the first national lockdown, and, by the time we are emerging from the third (and hopefully final), her book will be available in bookshops and online retailers, launching across the UK and US from 15th April.

‘With the effect Covid is having on mental health in young people, there couldn’t have been a better time for this book to come out’ 88

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In many ways, its themes have taken on a new and important relevance amid the pandemic’s swirling uncertainty. “With the effect Covid is having on mental health in young people, there couldn’t have been a better time for this book to come out,” Bethan says. “The young people I’ve spoken to about self and body esteem during lockdown have told me the pressure to do ‘body transformations’ and obsess over their appearance has been exacerbated; they are spending more time on social media and anxiety is through the roof.”

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How her gorgeousness grew

Pages to draw, colour, write, doodle, scribble, cut, stick and unleash your creativity all over

The book encourages teens to treat their bodies as a lifelong BFF, with tried-and-tested roadmaps to help develop literacy and compassion around the menstrual cycle, as well as creative prompts to help recognise the patterns and beliefs that sometimes hold us back from discovering our purpose and power. Packed full of Bethan’s gorgeously unique illustrations, inspiring quotes, and the kind of practical exercises, rip-me-out and fill-in-now activities that our own Filofax-mad teenage selves would have loved, ‘Rebel Beauty for Teens’ gives teenagers everything they need to find and express their unique brand of gorgeousness.

Win

We have two fabu lous copies of Betha n’s g u ided jou r na l ‘R ebel Beauty for Teens’ to g ive away.

For your chance to win visit www.styleofwight.co.uk

As a child, Bethan was bullied for her appearance, an experience which she credits with the impetus to write her first book, ‘Grow Your Own Gorgeousness’. Starting in tiny handmade self-stitched ‘print runs’ for family and friends, and later through a professional self-publisher, word spread and ‘Grow Your Own Gorgeousness’ developed into an educational delivery programme rolled out across the Island, where at the time, self-esteem in teenage girls was lower than the national average. In August 2019, Bethan was approached by Trigger publishing, specialists in mental health and wellbeing, who loved the programme and wanted to publish it in book form. “It’s almost like this book is the finale,” Bethan says. “I’m really excited for it to get out there in the world.”

March and April 2021

The perfect choice for a carefree, relaxing holiday… Fairway Caravan & Lodge Park is situated in Sandown, on the beautiful Isle of Wight. The Island itself is acknowledged as being one of the sunniest places in Britain with magnificent beaches and breathtaking scenery – the ideal setting for a carefree, relaxing holiday. This beautiful site boasts a wide range of holiday park facilities and things to do for guests of all ages. Whether it be taking a dip in our pool, having a drink in the club house, or exploring the local area we aim to make it a perfect holiday. Sandown Beach is one of the Isle of Wight’s finest and most recognized beaches, with miles of soft golden sands crowned by Sandown’s pleasure pier. Popular with tourists and surfers, Sandown is a traditional ‘bucket and spade’ holiday beach with all that you expect from an English family beach.

T: 01983 218492

E: info@fairwayholidaypark.co.uk

Image: Visit Isle of Wight

With the park being open 12 months a year, you can come and go as you please

With holiday homes starting from just £9,995, we have something for everyone and our 2020 site fees start from as little as £3,550 for holiday homes and £4,000 for lodges. The park has a 12 month holiday licence. So no matter how you spend your holiday, Fairway Holiday Park promises to make it one of your best, with plenty to do and to see on this fabulous Island.

fairwayholidaypark.co.uk

The Little Island by Liv Graves, aged 20

“ I w a n t t o m o v e a w a y,” I sa id. “ I w a n t t o b r e a t h e n e w a i r.” So of f I bobbed, Across the blue, I n h o p e I ’d f i n d h a p p i n e s s t h e r e . “ T h e o t h e r s i d e , a t l a s t!” I sa id. “ T h e r e i s s o m u c h w i t h i n m y r e a c h .” But across the blue A n isla nd cooed, I n s a d n e s s a n d d e s p a i r. “ I m i s s m y l i t t l e i s l a n d ,” I sa id. “ I m i s s h e r a n a w f u l l o t .” The isla nd hea rd this, A nd sent me a k iss, T hen bega n prepa r i n g my spot. “ I ’ m c o m i n g b a c k t o b e w i t h y o u ,” I sa id. “ T h e p l a c e I t r u l y b e l o n g .” So back I bobbed, Across the blue A nd saw her t her e, st a nd i n g st r on g. “ I ’ m s o g l a d t o s e e y o u a g a i n ,” I sa id. “ I m i s s e d y o u m o r e t h a n y o u k n o w.” “ We l l , w h e r e v e r y o u t r u l y b e l o n g ,” She sa id. “ I t d o e s n’ t t a k e l o n g t o k n o w s o .” Style of Wight is thrilled to support fresh talent in this new poetry-partnership with Brave Island UK, a creative network for young people aged 14 to 25 on the Isle of Wight. To submit your poem – in response to the theme of ‘Biosphere’ – for publication in our May/June issue, visit braveisland.uk before the closing date of Friday 23rd April.

DIG FOR VINTAGE

Stylish Personal Recycled Individual Neat Gifts Offering monthly painting technique Vintage lifestyle through Find out more in-store the decades, fashion, iconic workshops. WWW.DIGFORVINTAGE.CO.UK and on our Facebook page. furniture, fabrics, ceramics, “The Islands home to Annie Sloan” art and classic books. Book a painting The Colonnade, Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 2NE experience with Everything you need to create a us today! T. 07527vintage 078856 E.your info@digforvintage.co.uk gorgeous look for home. The Colonnade Ryde PO33 2NE

T 01983 719433 E info@digforvintage.co.uk

Inspired by life on and off the water

xvstripes

www.xvstripes.com BEDDING - CUSHIONS - THROWS - INTERIORS - GIFTS & ACCESSORIES March and April 2021

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First flushes of spring This French style chair combines clean-andclassic white with heritage Bayliss & Booth style: £895

For busy worker bees

In the wonderful world of interiors, spring is the season to get inspired by nature and roused by wildlife. Leap in!

This duo of recycled cotton tea towels are just the ticket for a spot of post-washing up wildlife watching: £12.95, Bayliss & Booth

Instantly update with cushions Beautifully embroidered ochre bee & pink dragonfly on rich embellished velvet: £55 each, Bayliss & Booth

Morning has broken in a twin burst of floral fusion and fringed edging: £75 each, Bayliss & Booth ‘S’ is for Sea Eagle Accessorise your sideboards, stack up your shelfies and identify the sights and songs of local birds with these classic collectables: from a selection at Dig For Vintage

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As lovely as a March hare

Bursts of spring energy

Evoke soft spring mornings with this linen print, looptrimmed cushion (£29) and romantic watercolour lamp base with shade: £135 both Bayliss & Booth

Vivid folksy pinks are the perfect high energy accent bright, like Annie Sloan’s latest colour Capri Pink: £21.95, available exclusively at Dig For Vintage

Celebrate the Spring Equinox by candlelight These wonderfully eclectic lighting designs are naturally and sustainably sourced from Scottish Red Deer by Anthony Redmile: Price on Application

Bring the outside in Create an oasis of greens and greenery with retro rattan and custom blends: Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, from £21.95, available exclusively at Dig For Vintage

Bayliss & Booth, Wootton Bridge. baylissandbooth.co.uk Instagram: @baylissandbooth Dig For Vintage, Ryde. digforvintage.co.uk Instagram: @dig _for_vintage Anthony Redmile, Cowes. redmile.com Instagram: @anthonyredmile

March and April 2021

OPEN 14th April

B A Y L I S S

B O O T H

Anne Ginger soft furnishings

With 40 years experience Anne Ginger and her dedicated team are happy to assist in making the right choice of soft furnishings for you, from helping you choose the perfect product through to installation. Our service is based around giving excellent advice combined with quality products. Come and see us and turn your dream into reality. Due to Covid-19 the showroom is operating Monday-Friday on an appointment service so please call to book. info@anneginger.co.uk www.anneginger.co.uk

DESIGN LED INTERIORS STORE MID-CENTURY

tel. 01983 407730

SKANDI

FRENCH CHATEAU

VINTAGE FINDS

B AY LI S SA N DB O OTH .C O.U K @baylissandbooth

01983 528 600 WO OTTON PO 3 3 4 R D

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Retro

revival

With Long Lane Flooring Combi n i ng wa rm, ea r thy tones a nd i mpressive patterns, 1970s is the forever trend that tra nscends season: homely a nd com for ti ng yet rem i n iscent of golden sa nds a nd su nset sk ies

Eye-catching prints and standout colouring for a vibrant feature area or mix and match approach

ith its Mediterranean baked clay tones and earthy textures, terracotta will keep your home feeling rustic and organic. From diluted apricot to dusty gold, paler parchment and primrose to rich burnt ochre – team your terracotta tiling with tactile fabrics, natural woods and rattan accessories for a timeless look that nods to the past and speaks to the future. For more inspiration, visit the Long Lane Flooring showroom in Newport or online at longlanecarpetsandflooring.co.uk Main: Ca’Pietra’s Piazza Porcelain collection comes in six options; light and dark hues with speckles of colourful terrazzo

The enduring appeal of rose terracotta in a classic parquet design

March and April 2021

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Style is: We are a collective fusion of natural and relaxed luxury homewares.

People with style

EXPERIENTIAL INTERIOR EXPERTS R icha rd McGee a nd Lesley Cor nwa l l - Aca ci a Ba y, Sha n k l i n

Richard McGee and Lesley Cornwall have a real passion for interiors, which is echoed both in their brand-new shop Acacia Bay, on Shanklin High Street, and in the home they are renovating, also in Shanklin, with the same name. The couple loved the house, and the name sealed the deal, as Acacia Bay on Lake Taupo in New Zealand is where Richard grew up. “We were on the ferry, coming over, and Richard said, ‘I’m going to live here’,” laughs Lesley. At that time the couple had an interiors shop in Sussex but thought how lovely it would be to have a store like theirs on the Isle of Wight, opening Acacia Bay on Shanklin High Street at the beginning of December 2020. “What we offer is an experience,” says Lesley. “Shopping that excites the senses. We only buy in what we love.” Lesley’s eye for design comes from her family’s creative background. “My father saw life through the end of a film camera lens, and I suppose it must have rubbed off,” says Lesley. Richard adds, “Lesley has a wonderful eye for detail and does all the buying and setting for the shop – we make a great team!” “We’ve been to ‘Maison Objet’ design exhibition in France every year, where there are 4,500 exhibitors,” adds Lesley. “We have a huge range of suppliers and selectively choose items we will stock in the shop.” These include one-off-pieces made in Richard’s basement workshop beneath the shop; stunning driftwood tables and pieces of furniture, also created from five species of indigenous hardwoods from New Zealand. Richard’s passion for interiors stems from an unlikely previous career as a personal trainer, with high profile clients such as Princess Diana and the Astors. “The personal training was a very early morning and evening thing, and I began restoring period houses during the day. I had a building team in London for very high-end clients,” explains Richard, whose most recent renovations have included a listed cottage in the Cotswolds and an apartment overlooking Notre Dame. The couple have started a project on the island and hope to do more. “We’ve been very inspired by the creativity on the Island. There are so many talented people. We fell in love with our house and decided to invest in Shanklin. “People have come from all over the Island to see the shop. We want to become a ‘Go To’ shopping experience.”

Does money equal success? You need money to survive, and it does give you choice. However, for us it’s more about the passion for what we do. What does Island living mean to you? We wanted an essence of the southern hemisphere, but in the UK, and a friend said, “check out the Isle of Wight”. It’s about freedom and space, community, friendliness, time to breathe and the beautiful coast. Icons or Inspirations? The whole thing about making shopping an experience. Terence Conran. Restoration Hardware (an American interiors concept). Petersham Nurseries, where you can eat in a greenhouse. Venice – the colour, light and architecture. Blunders and what you learned? Don’t get involved in something you don’t really understand. Stick with what you know and what you love. Top tips: You need to live in your home before making major decisions because you will make unnecessary errors. Do the ‘definites’ first and then create a house that works for you and is functional and enjoyable. Group items and they look a lot better, and test colours on large areas of the walls in different areas of the room. Don’t always take for gospel what colour the design magazines say. It’s not about if your friends like your living room, it’s about whether you do. Facing the Future and Aspirations: There’s a lot of talk about the doom of the high street, but we tend to disagree. For small independents there will always be people who want to touch and see. Online cannot replace that. Independents can do that and have an online presence.

March and April 2021

STYLE | Home

Building a sense of belonging W hether you are bui lding from the g round up or reimag ining an existing space, creating a true home isn’t just about how its physica l structure and f low impacts your day-to-day li festyle. It is a lso an opportunity to curate a space that spea ks to our ow n unique identities as indiv idua ls and as a fami ly unit. Here are my top tips for creating a home that ref lects you. By R a chel Sava ge Interior Desig ner, R ACH EL SAVAGE ST U DIO

Display what you love Sometimes, a single treasured object can provide the inspiration for a whole room. Whether it’s a family heirloom, something that you fell in love with at a local antique shop (when we lived overseas, The Cowshed in Carisbrooke was always first on my list), a holiday purchase or simply a vase of sea glass from family beach walks, anything that has meaning to you will enhance your room’s eclectic and give it personality. I like to stack objects to give height and group items according to materials or colour for a considered and complete look.

Mix and match styles Don’t feel like you have to stick with one theme. Mix hard surfaces with soft textures, patterns with plain and old with contemporary – well-loved family pieces are a great way of weaving in your personal story, and can always be upcycled or reupholstered to suit your style. My go-to for vintage pieces are Jack’s Vintage and Collectables and Dig for Vintage (which also stocks Annie Sloan paint), both in Ryde.

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Hang art I like framing things that might otherwise sit in a drawer; a handwritten note or a ticket stub from a trip. It’s the framing and how it’s hung that elevates the art. Larger pieces should hang alone; but smaller frames look better in clusters of three or four. Frames don’t have to match, but always consider as one group and don’t forget to hang at eye level from the centre of the cluster. One of my personal favourites is of the Dubai skyline drawn from memory by cityscape artist Stephen Wiltshire; and I can’t walk down Ryde High Street without stopping to admire the aerial photography of Alfie in the air.

Find your interior style I encourage my clients to use colours, patterns and styles that they are drawn to rather than what is on trend. If you’re a bit colour shy, consider introducing through soft furnishings – a lampshade or cushion – first. There are so many easy ways to inject personality: I often suggest Farrow and Ball as a starting paint palette, which I love teaming with a bold floor, such as Ca Pietra tiles.

For more i n formation on Ra chel a nd her ser v ices, v isit Instag ra m @ ra chelsavagestud io or ra chelsavagestud io.com

Rachel Savage was recently commissioned by Ryde School with Upper Chine to create a home-fromhome identity for Millfield Boarding House, an elegant yet robust renovated Grade II Georgian Villa. Rachel says “We introduced a materials palette that complemented the style of house yet created a fresh, warm homely feel. The interiors needed to represent the school’s ethos and values, but also be informal enough for the boarders to be able to relax. Using a yellow from the original fireplace as inspiration, we painted the ceiling of the TV room yellow to create a fun space to relax, play table football or watch a movie.” Photo credits: Unsplash

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telephone email website

01983 874777 info@turnbullandmaton.co.uk turnbullandmaton.co.uk

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH This detached 4 bedroom chalet bungalow is situated in a popular residential road within Bembridge, with the beaches and shops just a very shor t stroll away. The proper ty has undergone large renovations in recent years, and although not fully completed the areas which have been done are done so to a very high standard. This proper ty benefits from 3 bathrooms, a utility room, workshop/garage and extensive parking. This is a wonderful family proper ty that will provide the new owners with a fabulous modern home in a very popular area of the village.

ALL SOLD WITHIN WEEKS OF BEING ON THE MARKET SOLD

SOLD

THINKING OF SELLING IN 2021?

At Turnbull & Maton Estate Agents we are proud of our personal relationship with the area we cover. Our office is a friendly and welcoming environment with a professional approach which allows us to deal with proper ties across the spectrum. Our staff offer a wealth of experience & local knowledge. We are a small team who are passionate about providing an excellent service to both vendors and purchasers. Contact us today for a free, no onligation valuation.

BEMBRIDGE OFFICE 3 Foreland Road, Bembridge PO35 5XN

Property | STYLE

Shoreside serenity BEACH HOLME, BONCHURCH

Enjoy sensational views just steps from the shoreline in this Victorian coastal villa This stunning Victorian residence provides sea views in abundance. Occupying an exceptional position on the seafront, the home comprises a large 4 bedroom family home, with a self-contained 2 bedroom apartment occupying the second floor. Adjacent to the property is a boathouse, with its own shower room, kitchenette and mezzanine sleeping deck. The main house, Beach Holme,

is beautifully presented with a conservatory to the front. The kitchen has been partially opened to the dining room to allow interaction between the rooms and to take in the wonderful outlook. The apartment, Sea Brae, has its own entrance door at the rear of the property and its substantial living/kitchen/dining space makes the most of glorious views.

Clockwise from left: Enjoy Victorian elegance in the ultimate location in this versatile home. A spacious apartment offers income opportunities. Calm coastal palettes set a relaxed tone.

An outlook to revive the spirit and soothe the soul

Viewings with Spence Willard, on 01983 200880. Visit spencewillard.co.uk March and April 2021

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STYLE | Property

Perfection for party people T H E PA L M S , W H I T E L E Y B A N K

Be the ultimate host in this spacious, modern mansion This superb contemporary home is beautifully situated in the South Wight countryside. Completely refurbished to an extremely high standard it offers spacious accommodation for a large family or for those enjoying entertaining. Within the main house there is the potential to remodel to provide a 1 - 2 bedroom annexe. The large family area contains breakfast room, kitchen and

dining hall and on the ground floor there are also 3 double bedrooms. A galleried landing provides a large seating area, leading to a living room from which you can enjoy stunning rural views. Within the grounds sits The Clock House, a 3 bedroom property, offering second income potential, multigenerational living or a superb space to set up a work from home environment.

Clockwise from left: There’s space to spare for family and friends at The Palms. Light and height make the perfect zone for entertaining. Party in the kitchen: wow your guests in this social kitchen space.

Viewings with Hose Rhodes Dickson – The Collection, on 01983 538090

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Take in rural views from the garden deck

Property | STYLE

Open plan opulence PA R K V I E W, P L A C E R O A D

There’s space to spare in this creatively rebuilt Cowes home This versatile detached home originally a 2 bedroom bungalow - has been completely renovated and rebuilt to create this amazing property. The open plan living space is the star of the show with the modern fitted kitchen, free standing wood burner and bi-folding doors leading out to the large sunny deck and garden. The principal suite on the first floor is a shopaholic’s dream

with its large dressing room. The bedroom is extremely spacious and has a balcony looking over the garden and open parklands. There is ample parking on the driveway and the gravelled drive leads through double gates to further parking. In the garden there is the added benefit of a garden room/summer house with its own decking and a large enclosed garden store.

Clockwise from left: This light, modern home is set in ample grounds. Space is the keynote to this creative conversion. The principal suite continues the spacious theme.

The large deck is perfect for parties

Viewings with Waterside Properties, on 01983 300111. Visit watersideisleofwight.com March and April 2021

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Business | STYLE

OUR MISSION IS TO CHANGE LIVES FOR THE BETTER

By Ben R ouse ROUSE LTD

he cycle of life has always afforded us moments when we can draw a line under an event or period of time. It could be New Year, the start of a new term, or new kid on the block: a post-pandemic rebalance. It can be cleansing, reaffirming, or simply a good tidy up. But whatever your trigger, the process is the same and the result is more control and hopefully greater motivation to keep matters in check. Your financial evolution If 2020 taught us anything it’s that not only can the impossible happen but also that with planning and a little forethought you can certainly mitigate some of the disasters that might strike. We have always preferred to take a holistic and long-term view regarding financial planning. Yes, specific issues crop up, such as choosing a mortgage or help with pension planning but in general, financial decisions should be made with as wide a perspective as possible. Your priorities will change as you enter different phases of your life and the focus will shift but a financial plan that allows for adjustment can help smooth out some of the bumps along the way. First though you need to have a full picture of your income and expenditure – and to consider ongoing costs and changing circumstances. What better time than now to take a closer look? Financial planning is about more than savings and investments; like it or not, money makes the world go round so it makes sense to ensure whatever money you do have is working as efficiently as possible.

Infinity and beyond This applies as much to our lives now as it does to the plans we have for our dependants and beneficiaries when we die. One of the quickest financial housekeeping wins you can action is to make sure the key people in your life know where all your important information is. Obviously it’s made really easy if you have everything filed with your Financial Planner but even having it written down and stored safely (and at least one trusted person knows where it is!) will help save a lot of time and anxiety. Checklists are available online covering all the basics such as who your solicitor is (and therefore where your Will is kept), all financial details, including savings and investments, as well as any outstanding debts. You should also create an inventory of your digital assets, which can include those assets with a financial value such as cryptocurrencies and loyalty points, and those with sentimental or personal value like digital photos and social media accounts. Your list can also include an outline of your funeral plans and who your main beneficiaries are. Granting Powers of Attorney to a trusted individual can help further should you lose mental capacity or die, and this person should be the keeper of this information. Physician, heal thyself! We’re not just pointing the finger outwards though! We’ve been taking steps to get our own ducks in order by improving our service offering. If you want to know more about Rouse Limited, or to get more helpful hints on improving your financial control, visit rouseltd.co.uk. You can also download a copy of our new magazine, Sentinel.

Did you k now? Unlike your physical assets, ownership of digital assets is tricky as they could be owned by you or a service provider. Each online service has its own end of life process, which must be followed if your family are to gain access to your digital assets. Take time to understand the policies for each of the services you use and then make a plan for each asset.

Rouse Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. rouseltd.co.uk March and April 2021

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Business | STYLE

FIVE REASONS WHY YOU S H O U L D U P D AT E Y O U R W I L L

By Lee Peck ha m ROACH PITTIS

veryone should write a Will and update it when life’s circumstances change significantly. Your family and financial circumstances rarely remain the same indefinitely, so when a major change happens in your life, it is also a time to reflect on whether your Will is still fit for purpose. 1. Marriage, separation and divorce It is very important to remember that marriage completely revokes your Will, whilst divorce revokes only those clauses relating to your spouse. So, if you are about to marry or enter into a civil partnership, you should make a new Will. If you have separated from your spouse, consider updating your Will, because if you die before your divorce is finalised, any existing clauses benefitting your spouse will remain valid.

5. Health problems Our health can deteriorate at any point in our life. If you become terminally ill or you are seriously injured in an accident and you know your prognosis is poor, making or reviewing your Will can give you peace of mind. The specialist Will lawyers at Roach Pittis are experienced in providing compassionate advice and support in difficult circumstances. You may also want information regarding Lasting Powers of Attorney, which we can also provide. Always see a specialist Solicitor when thinking of making or changing your Will. Will writers are unregulated and may not have specialist expertise. The risk is having a Will that is ineffective or even invalid.

2. Births and deaths You naturally want to protect your children as far as possible, including providing for them after your death. You may have named children as beneficiaries in your current Will, however this will not automatically include further children. You should therefore update your Will where necessary. You may also want to consider appointing a suitable legal guardian for your children in case you die before they reach 18. 3. Tax mitigation Inheritance tax advice can be provided to ensure you receive all the relevant information, before deciding what type of Will suits your circumstances and wishes. 4. Financial windfall If you receive a large inheritance, redundancy pay out, or you are lucky enough to win the lottery, you should consider updating your Will. We can discuss with you whether making cash gifts to your loved ones or to your favourite charities to reduce the size of your Estate is a good option for you or not.

For further information please contact us on 01983 524431. This article is of a general nature and is not a substitute for professional advice. No responsibility can be accepted for the consequences of any action taken or refrained from, as a result of what is said. March and April 2021

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STYLE | Business

YOU ARE NOT ALONE By Ha n na h Lisseter DI RECTOR , GL A N V I L L ES

Bereavement is tough at any time, especially so during the pandemic. With restrictions on saying a proper goodbye, and an increase in the number of people passing away, it has been challenging on so many levels. I speak to many bereaved relatives who have suffered terrible loss, often having to say goodbye to their loved ones via video call. If their loved one died of Covid-19 then they are also unlikely to have been allowed to pay their final respects once the person passed. Then comes the challenge of who can be present at the funeral, with limited numbers permitted to attend. Although technology can never replace

a hug, it has at least allowed us to maintain a sense of connection in these turbulent times. The process of sorting out someone’s affairs when they pass away has also been made more challenging. Many major banks and financial institutions have had to adapt and embrace technology too, which has helped, but there continue to be lengthy delays in dealing with government agencies. The personal liability of the Executors remains, as does the responsibility for sorting everything out. On a practical level many executors are prevented from travelling to carry out their duties. It can feel overwhelming and very

lonely, and the current isolation can make it more difficult. Many are struggling with their own mental health and the sudden death of a loved one, particularly one who has previously been a support, can lead to a complex mix of feelings. None of us know what the future holds, or how and when this will end. What we do know is that there is a lot of support out there, from bereavement counselling to legal support. At Glanvilles we offer a free initial consultation to guide you as to the next steps and offer support should you need it. Call us on 01983 527878 to see how we can help.

To s p e a k t o o n e o f o u r e x p e r t s p l e a s e c a l l u s o n 0 1 9 8 3 5 2 7 8 7 8

Island knowledge, national expertise At Glanvilles Damant, we are committed to achieving the highest standards and the best results for our clients. We pride ourselves on putting the needs of our clients at the heart of

The Courtyard, St Cross Business Park Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5BF

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t: 01983 527878 f: 01983 821629

DX 56352 Newport IW e: hello@gdlegalservices.co.uk

www.gdlegalservices.co.uk

Business | STYLE

THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT By Ma r n ie Ja naway BR A N D DE V ELOPER , RETA I L M EN TOR , BUSI N ESS CONSU LTA N T

A couple of months into 2021, we are starting to see some light on the Covid horizon.When times are hard, opportunity and innovation can thrive. On our Island, there is a wealth of opportunity for start-ups to act on long-held ideas: plus, though it might seem counterintuitive, economic uncertainty often means that funding opportunities abound, with savvy investors looking to buy into new business talent. At the moment I am helping Island Refillery, a two-girl crew from Bembridge whose innovative zerowaste doorstop refill service for all your household cleaning needs is

set to soar in the current climateconscious environment. I have been very impressed with their strong environmental ethos: Fi and Jess really walk the walk, organising beach cleans in their spare time and ensuring their business model matches their eco-credentials, by using an electric van for deliveries. My role is to match their passion and ideas with actions and solutions, setting detailed plans and targets for launch and beyond. I have no doubt that they have a very bright future ahead of them. Email marnie.janaway@iwchamber.co.uk or call 07770 796524.

“Marnie is great. With all of her experience in business, especially in retail and sales, she is really helping us with our plans – she is very practical and offers hands-on solutions.” - Fi and Jess, Island Refillery

March and April 2021

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design � photography � print � publishing � online visit STYLEOFWIGHT.co.uk or call 01983 861007

Business | STYLE

PIVOTING – AN ACT OF D E S P E R AT I O N ? By Da le Howa r t h BUSI N ESS M EN TOR , SPEA K ER A N D CPD TR A I N ER

Traditionally ‘pivoting’ was intended to help a business adapt and recover after experiencing new competition or other known factors such as their products moving to end of life, markets becoming saturated or a business hitting a plateau and needing a change of direction. There are some great examples of businesses that have pivoted to survive. Twitter originally started as Odeo, a platform to serve as a social channel around podcasts, but when Apple launched iTunes podcasting in June 2005 they could see the writing on the wall, they pivoted and in March 2006 Twitter was launched.

Photo by Jim Wilson

t this time, the pressing need for change is leaving many business owners feeling paralysed, or in a state of flux, as they work out what to do that is right for their business. With all the current disruption to commerce the term ‘pivot’ has become a buzzword, to suggest fundamental changes to a business’s strategy and direction of travel, in order to survive. However, pivoting should not be seen as an act of desperation. The sheer number of businesses that have accelerated their success by pivoting indicates that there is much more to it than a last-ditch strategy. Whilst 10% of business failures cite ‘a pivot gone bad’ contributing to their demise, 7% attribute ‘a failure to pivot’ as a critical mistake that led to failure of the business. This highlights the importance of balanced consideration to the strategy and the degree that a business pivots. It is widely accepted that businesses should only pivot when absolutely necessary, and that it must be done with considerable planning and thoughtful execution - pivoting may be the answer for some, but in reality it was never developed in the context of what we face today.

Yes, many have pivoted and seen massive success as a result, but it is not the magic cure for everyone. It’s something that should not be done to comply with the latest buzzword, but only after all other options have been fully considered. A ‘pivot’ can irreversibly change a business, which may not sit well with staff and backers. The financial cost and investment can be high. You may also give up hard-won reputation and some may see the move as a reflection of failure. For some, rather than the dramatic U-turn associated with a pivot, it may be better to consider adapting by degrees, to more slowly change direction by addressing one pressing problem at a time. In some ways it’s a simpler, more gradual and less drastic form of pivoting. Quicker, less radical, more flexible and with the current lack of stability, this can be a more prudent option. Examples include turning a popular feature of a product or service into a product in its own right, or moving part of your focus to re-position your business into a new vertical market. Undertaking a Pivot U-turn, or adapting by degrees, can provide the reboot that some businesses need to meet mounting challenges. For many it is a logical option, the next step, but one that needs careful consideration to achieve what is right for any business - to make the situation better, not worse.

Dale Howarth is a Business Mentor, CPD Speaker and Accredited CPD Training Provider. Working with individuals and companies to make the business leaders and businesses successes of tomorrow. To find out more visit www.dalehowarth.com. March and April 2021

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Style speaks

to Chris Pack ham and beavers that would be such an exciting suite of animals for people to see and enormously beneficial to the environment and economy. In an isolated community, creativity can really prosper – the Island is small enough to get things done, which is great.

On belonging I’ve had the privilege of travelling to exotic habitats around the world – from ice deserts to sand deserts to rainforests, which is always rewarding, and titillating, and invigorating – but the woods are my home. I’ve got four walls, but frankly I feel more comfortable, less anxious, more complete as a person in the piece of woodland that I know and love so very much. On sense and Shinrin-Yoku I come to the woods every day to get my fix. As a child, I thought that was because it was where all the things that principally fascinated me were – which was true, of course – but now we have come to realise that Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) provides a huge mental health benefit. It’s a less challenging environment for me than any urban one; I’m comforted by its smells and sounds, its sights and structure. On Dinosaur Isle As a kid, I was massively keen on dinosaurs – they seemed such intangible animals, once living within miles of where I grew up in Southampton; whenever a new find was published in the Southern Evening Echo the levels of excitement were phenomenal. Coming to the Island – which we did several times – and looking for fossils was the dream; my mother was very keen on sitting on the beach, which was the antithesis of my Dad and I’s existence, we were far too restless. I never found my

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dinosaur, though other people did thank goodness. On Island memories I’ve got lots of fond memories of the Island; I still have the photos of when I came over for an Aston Martin rally at Bembridge Airport around 1980. When I met Charlotte (Corney, owner of the Isle of Wight Zoo) the Island became a second home for me. And, of course, I’ve done lots of filming on the Island over the years. More recently I’ve been coming back because of the Sea Eagle reintroduction: it’s amazing, incredible to think those birds are back on the Island. Magnificent. What a place. On a wilder Wight The Island is becoming – or has the potential to become – an ecotourism destination. Already you’ve got red squirrels and dormice; if the Isle of Wight puts back ospreys

On punk music I count myself as very fortunate to be involved in the punk movement in the mid to late ‘70s which was so profound and powerful. For me it does the opposite of being out in the woods – rather than open everything up it shuts everything down; I can completely immerse myself in sound to the point that it’s a blanket, a form of comfort. My favourite band is Jesus and Mary Chain whose melodic wall of feedback is so swamping I put it on and nothing else can get in: it’s volume and energy; overpowering and overwhelming, a complete sound. On zombies and human impermanence My comfort movies are probably not too comforting for other people, you’ll probably be appalled – I’m a zombie film fan; also, things like Pacific Rim and Transformers. For someone like me, when you’ve got all these spiralling and crashing perspectives going on, it really is like a cerebral rollercoaster – I’ll put bits of those films on like someone else might have a sip of nice brandy. I also love how a good apocalypse film can teach us we’re not going to be here forever, and actually the alternative is quite picturesque because it shows humanity will recover. I absolutely love that.

S T R AT E X

B R E C O N V I N TA G E O A K HERRINGBONE

WAT E R P ROOF

B RAC K E N OAK

WE ATH E R E D OA K

B UI LT- IN U NDERLAY

WA R EH O U S E OA K

HIGH- S TABILI TY

VA L L EY OA K

G L ACI A L OAK

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT SYDENHAMS Sydenhams Ltd, Forest Road, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5YS T: 01983 532320 | E: sales.newportbm@sydenhams.co.uk |

Style of Wight 69 March and April 2021

Articles inside

Style speaks: Chris Packham

The future is bright: with

Pivoting – an act of desperation?: with Dale Howarth

You are not alone: with

Five reasons why you should update your will: with

Changing lives for the better

Building a sense of belonging

People with style: Richard

Retro revival: with Long

Spring-spiration: get inspired by

Poetry: Little Island by Liv Graves

Children’s Writing Competition

The Style of Wight Family Guide

Spring fashion: with

Cocktail: slide into spring with

Hurst: how it all began – the

Seasonal vegetable: Mustard

Easter recipe: herb-crusted rack

Green Island Veg Economy (GIVE): we talk to founder

Eggs are only the beginning

Spring book reviews: with

Photography competition

Behind the cover: with designer

Wild Lines: we speak to wildlife

Glimpses, views, moments: with

Interview: Four rural families

Tribe and Tide: Navigating Island

Puppy training tips: with dog

Style picks: a few of our favourite

Dazzle & Disrupt: with

Wild hearts belong here: with

Walk the Wight with

Charity and community: The