Style of Wight NOV DEC 2023 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 85 NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2023

THIS IS CHRISTMAS… Curated Gifts from our Island Independents In our 12 page Gift Guide

House – A New Island food destination Food Lovers Celebrate with Local Christmas Fare

Destination Ryde: Discover its unique shops and architecture

Meet Alex Kimber of Heron Ryde

lifestyle

fashion

health

beauty

food

home

family

art

Charnwood Cove 3

YEARS

Extraordinary stoves. Made on the Isle of Wight, sold worldwide. 01983 537780 • @charnwoodstoves • www.charnwood.com

charnwood

10% OFF JEWELLERY ENDS MARCH 31 ST

CHILTON CHINE, MILITARY ROAD, BRIGHSTONE, PO30 4DD Offer valid with this ad until 31st March 2024. Offer excludes Tassel and Pop. One voucher per transaction. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

All I want for Christmas is… a chimney for Santa. Festive season making you think about moving? We’re here to help, always.

Visit our website or your local branch to find out more.

The Island’s property people

More properties available on Rightmove, Zoopla and hose-rhodes-dickson.co.uk

Newton Road, Ventnor £550,000

4 | EPC D

A substantial family home situated in the pituresque and much sought after village of Niton, within a short drive to the coastal town of Ventnor and County town of Newport. There are an abundance of coastal and countryside walks just minutes away.

Strathwell Crescent, Whitwell £1,425,000

3 | EPC TBC

Located in the bucolic village of Whitwell to the south of the Island, Strathwell House is discreetly tucked away in a sheltered half an acre plot within the centre of this popular village community.

Meadow Close, Bembridge £650,000

4 | EPC C

Situated in a popular road only minutes from the village centre, coastal path, and beaches. A well-appointed home that has been extended and upgraded in recent years, offering 4 bedrooms and attractive family space that opens to the enclosed rear garden.

Howgate Road, Bembridge £750,000

3 | EPC TBC

A pretty family home nestled in a large and impressive plot. Minutes from the beach, coastal path, and local amenities this detached property is both homely and welcoming.

Bembridge: 01983 875 000 Cowes: 01983 294 714 East Cowes: 01983 219 002 Freshwater: 01983 212 188 Newport: 01983 521 144

Ryde: 01983 565 658

Shanklin: 01983 866 000

Ventnor: 01983 855 525

SPENCEWILLARD.CO.UK

CRA NMORE £ 2 , 09 0, 000 A substantial modern coastal house offering commanding Solent views from its elevated plot approaching 6 acres of glorious, landscaped grounds – all within 10 mins of Yarmouth. EPC C

CHA L E £ 1 , 9 5 0, 000 A masterpiece of contemporary architectural design situated in grounds of half an acre provides the ultimate coastal / rural retreat. EPC C

HELLO@SPENCEWILLARD.CO.UK

01983 200880

CGI pictures of proposed property

B L A C KWAT E R £8 50 ,0 0 0 Stunning new home with a combination of spacious rooms, extensive glazing and high ceilings which will make for an exceptionally light and airy home. EPC TBC

WHITWELL £ 75 0, 000 One of the most unique rural locations on the Island with breath-taking views in every direction. EPC Grade II Listed

L U CC O M B E £ 1 ,495,0 0 0 A beautiful period family home with pretty gardens and swimming pool. In a soughtafter location near Shanklin Old Village and close to the beach. This lifestyle property has 9 recently refurbished ancillary self-contained holiday apartments hosted by the current owners providing a great income stream. EPC E

SPENCEWILLARD.CO.UK

@sp en ce w illardiw

STYLE | Home

Guide Price £875,000 Cowes, Isle of Wight

This stunning period property is over three floors and has been thoughtfully and beautifully renovated throughout, with sea views from the upper floor bedroom. All rooms are bright and airy with contemporary decor and finishing. With an open plan dining room/kitchen which has a dark granite worksurface over the many base and wall units and an additional utility area. A large separate sitting room has an impressive feature fireplace complete with log burner. There is a cloakroom off the bright hallway with its original staircase that leads to the first floor. Here four bedrooms can be found along with a family bathroom that has a roll top bath and separate walk in shower, as well as a separate shower room. On the top floor is an extremely large bedroom that can fit 3 beds, along with a shower room and the final bedroom.

SUBSTANTIAL PERIOD HOME

email: hello@mccarthyandbooker.co.uk phone: 01983 300 111

Helping you find your perfect home... Guide Price £599,950

Guide Price £225,000

A fantastic 4 bedroom home with a principal suite covering the whole of the second floor. Upgraded throughout with three bath/shower rooms, separate sitting area and an outstanding kitchen, dining and seating area. Off road parking for 4 or more vehicles and a newly landscaped rear garden with outside shower and several seating areas. Absolutely stunning, in a great position close to Cowell Bay.

A well-presented first floor maisonette located within a countryside setting, this forms the first floor of a converted 1930s property with the benefit of an attic room with full Building Control certificate, generous rooms and a parking space. This home is chain free and ready to move into.

Totland Bay, Isle of Wight

RENOVATED THROUGHOUT

Gurnard, Isle of Wight

COUNTRYSIDE LOCATION

Guide Price £460,000

Guide Price £625,000

A detached three bedroom home in rural Ventnor within a countryside location. Two bath/shower rooms and three reception rooms with off road parking for many vehicles. Fantastic position close to many attractions and sea side towns, with gorgeous countryside views.

A substantial 6 bedroom family home in an extremely convenient position, close to central Cowes. With off road parking for several vehicles, extensive mature garden, three reception rooms and three bath/rooms. This immaculate home is not to be missed.

Whiteley Bank, Isle of Wight

FANTASTIC LOCATION

mccarthyandbooker.co.uk

Cowes, Isle of Wight

IMMACULATE HOME

New Bank End S T L AW R E N C E

■ A wonderful coastal development

site situated in St Lawrence.

■ Includes two 3-bedroom holiday

cottages, with open plan kitchens.

■ A substantial glasshouse, with

potential for alternative uses.

■ Includes campsite, woodland,

grounds and lake, in all extending to 6.12 acres (2.47 ha).

■ A further site including agricultural

and commercial buildings and yardage, with positive pre-application for 2 further residential dwellings.

Guide Price: £1,690,000 Available as a whole or in two separate lots EPC: F, F Council Tax Band: N/A Tenure: Vacant Possession

www .bcm.co.uk

iow@bcm.co.uk

@BCM_LLP

01983 828 805

RURAL PROPERTY SPECIALISTS WITH OFFICES ON THE ISLAND, HAMPSHIRE AND OXFORDSHIRE

N E A R YA R M O U T H

B AT H I N G B O U R N E

W E E K F A R M £1,250,000

■ A and Wwell-appointed OODLAND S stylish barn conversion. Wilmingham Lane, Near Yarmouth, Isle of Wight, PO40 9UG

■ Set back and served by a private driveway.

Guide Price

WEEK LANE • WHITWELL • VENTNOR • ISLE OF WIGHT • PO38 2AA

■ Spectacular views across the nearby farmland. ■ Just a two minute drive away from the coastal

town of Yarmouth.

EPC: D Council Tax Band: G Tenure: Freehold

■ A stunning and secluded property set in the

hamlet of Bathingbourne.

■ An energy efficient home spanning 2700 sq. ft . ■ 4.5 acres of grounds including two fishing lakes. ■ An additional paddock of 1 acre available by

separate negotiation.

Guide Price

£1,000,000 EPC: B Council Tax Band: F Tenure: Freehold

THE LAKEHOUSE

Bathingbourne Lane, Bathingbourne, Sandown, PO36 0LU

NEW BANK END New Bank End is situated in a secluded position, in the sought-after location of St Lawrence, enjoying unrivalled sea views. The glasshouse offers a substantial footprint which may have potential for alternative uses subject to permitted development or full planning consent. A recent pre-application (undertaken by the vendors) under reference (IW19/10/18355) for “The demolition of the existing Glasshouse & proposal for one substantial dwelling” has in principal, received support from the Local Authority.

WH IT WELL

BILLINGHAM

■ two Attractive well-equipped residential farm. The property includes 3-bedroom and cottages which are successful holiday lets and both offer magnificent views towards the sea.

Guide Price

£4,395,000

■ Situated with stunning views to the sea. South of the Glasshouse is an area of mature woodland and a large lake.

Property and grounds extending over New Bank End is situated in an elevated and370.9 south-facing position approximately acres of land.

As a whole or in two separate lots

SITUATION ■

accessed directly off Undercliff Drive, St Lawrence. This coastal location still has the convenience of being within easy reach of mainland ferry ■ Comprising a substantial Georgian farmhouse. connections. The county town of Newport is 9 miles (18 minutes) away by car. The coastal resort of Ventnor with shops, restaurants, and beach is only a 10 minute walk or 4 minutes by car.

EPC: E Council Tax Band: F Tenure: Freehold

■ Six-bedroom, Grade II listed manor house.

Guide Price

■ Set within landscaped garden and grounds.

£1,950,000

■ Detached manor cottage and farm buildings.

EPC: Manor (N/A) Cottage (E) Council Tax Band: Manor (C) Cottage (C) Tenure: Freehold

■ Accessed via it’s own tree lined drive. ■ Just under 19 acres of pasture and woodland.

Glasshouse The glasshouse offers a range of the potential for a range of alternative uses subject to the relevant consents. The building is of aluminium construction with single pane glass on the sides and clear polycarbonate roof. The building is situated on a slope and is internally terraced at three levels incorporating a number of ponds within the terrace. The glasshouse extends to 375 m2 (4036 sqft). Swift (Holiday Cottage) The property comprises an open plan kitchen, dining, lounge master

BCM, Red Barn, Cheeks Farm, Merstone Lane, Merstone, Isle of Wight PO30 3DE

Note from the Editor So this is Christmas… Cover Pic: Featuring: Annie Sloan Paint Exclusive at Dig 4 Vintage ‘Welcome Marlow’

And yes, we are close to another year over – but what a year this has been! The whole Island enjoyed a glorious extended summer. We’ve had times of courage and moments of despair – yet here we are still smiling and full of the joys of Christmas. That is perhaps the essence of Christmas and indeed, whatever your faith, if we have hope and a reason to believe then perhaps that is all we really need.

Editor Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk Deputy Editor James Rayner Sub Editor Helen Hopper Production Assistant office@styleofwight.co.uk Writers Rebecca Lawson, Roz Whistance, Dale Howarth, David Harrington Creatives Lauren Fry, Kayleigh Trott Design Tim Mander Photography Christian Warren, Julian Winslow, Maria Bell, Pipi-Lotta Kulla Sales Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk

Something about Christmas seems to fill our hearts and bellies with the sound of song. Whether it’s in the form of those classic Christmas Number Ones or a traditional midnight mass at a village church, music at Christmas has a real sense and presence in all our lives. It can certainly help us escape and is a powerful form of meditation, too. Music can present us with new horizons or take us back to a place of comfort. It can still a busy mind and disperse the noise of the world. It transcends generations and brings strangers together around the sharing of a hymn sheet. To that point, it doesn’t really matter if we sing in tune or know all the words as long as we join with passion and without judgment. A simple harmony can sink deep into the soul and give wings to the mind. Music is indeed the mediator between the spiritual and the sensual life - Ludwig Van Beethoven If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music. - Albert Einstein Music expresses that which cannot be put into words and that which cannot remain silent. - Victor Hugo

Distribution office@styleofwight.co.uk 01983 861007

Christian Warren Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of Style of Wight Magazine, but legal responsibility cannot be accepted for errors, omissions or misleading statements. Winners at the IW Chamber Awards 2016

Get in touch

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

November and December 2023

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u • #s

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#su

CHRISTMAS AT OURS!

rtyour

MORE THAN JUST PUBS

o pp

rtyour

T R E AT T H E FA M I LY

Christmas Parties, Christmas Day & New Year’s Eve

CHRISTMAS PARTIES AT THE FISHBOURNE 3 Course menu & DJ for dancing - Dec 8th, 9th, 15th & 16th. £30 pp CHRISTMAS DAY LUNCH AT THE FISHBOURNE & THE BOATHOUSE Treat the family & enjoy this special day! - 3 Courses £85 pp, £43 for under 13s NEW YEAR’S EVE

‘Barbie! ’

NEW YEAR’S EVE ‘JAZZ & DINING’

Fancy dress, happy hour 6-7pm dancing, nibbles & a glass of bubbles for dressing up NO TICKET OR ENTRANCE FEE ~ RESERVATIONS: 01983 882823

Fancy dress, happy hour 6-7pm dancing, nibbles & a glass of bubbles for dressing up Fabulous 5 Course menu, reservations essential! ~ RESERVATIONS: 01983 810616

Visit our website www.innsofdistinction.co.uk

Keep an eye on our social media for our New Year’s Eve events and booking details

Contents

FOOD

HOME AND GARDEN

Issue 85: November and December 2023

REGULARS 16

Style Picks: Add atmosphere to the home with artisanal candles

Mermaid Zest Cocktail: A seasonal tipple

The Style Scoop: Enjoy an abundance of Christmas events

Style speaks: To the television producer – Jamie Langton

115

ART 23

Dimbola: Fine Arts and Little Cameras

Independent Arts: Murals bring the coast to Newport

Starry Night: With Lauren Fry, Arts Educator

Primal Instincts: Meet Artist Laura Hathaway

Style Spectrum: Photography by Vincent Dupont-Blackshaw

GIFT GUIDE: Our seasonal guide to Isle of Wight shopping

Style Meets: Alex Kimber of Heron Ryde

DESTINATION Ryde: Our shopper’s guide to Christmas treasures

2023 Homes Show: What a Show! Our review in pictures

Christmas Dining: A Wight Winter Menu

A Warm Welcome: By Kayleigh Trott of Studio Jute Interior Design

Festive Tips: From our Island food heroes

Flowers by Ellie: Make your own Christmas Garland

The Garden in Winter: With Ventnor Botanic Gardens

The Future of Culinary Innovations: With Linear Kitchens

105

Property Profiles: Explore Island Homes this Christmas

HOUSE: Matt Egan hosts the Island’s newest food destination Celery: With Will Steward, Living Larder

HEALTH AND BEAUTY

BUSINESS

Winter Wellness: Caroline Hurley – BeCalmed and Healthwell Solutions

111

Output without the input: By Dale Howarth, Business Mentor and Consultant

Shoulder Impingment: Dr Luther Moss, Osborne Chiropractic

111

101

Unlock the Mystery of Anxiety: Dr Margarita Kitova-John, The Lantern Clinic

The importance of lasting power of attorney By April Newton, Glanvilles Damant

FEATURES 41

FASHION 83

Xmas Sparkle: with Visual Impact and BoChic

83 November and December 2023

Goose Island Candle Company Based in the tranquil village of St Helens (and styled after the settlement’s intriguing historical nickname), Goose Island’s classy hand-poured offerings include an indulgent Mince Pie and Brandy aroma or this rich and fruity Christmas Pudding scented wonder. Made with love by Carly Rees, they’re yours for £14.

Style

picks

etsy.com/shop/gooseislandcandleco

No Christmas would be complete without the comforting aroma and atmospheric flicker of a candle. Plus, with so many talented candle makers (or ‘chandlers’ to give them their proper title) right on our doorstep, it would be rude not to take a quick tour of the Island’s finest. So dig out those matches and turn the lights down low as we show you our hand-picked selection of festive favourites.

SHED Soy Candles As seen in Vogue magazine, Ryde-based maker SHED offers a range of vegan, soybased candles, using 100% natural essential oils and shipped in fully recyclable packaging. Among Emma’s tempting aromatic selection, we’d plump for the ‘Apricity’ candle at this time of year, where sweet orange, cinnamon and clove unite to provide a comforting, winter scent — likened to being wrapped up in a warm blanket! £17 shedsoycandles.co.uk

Duxmore Botanics An ideal festive gift for relatives near and far, Duxmore’s ‘The Island’ candle combines eucalyptus, rosemary, black pepper, vetiver and cypress to create an uplifting aroma that gives a little nod to our fresh sea breezes and calming atmosphere. Created by Charlotte Legge on her rural farm amongst the Island’s chalky downland, each candle has 40 hours of burn time and is made from 100% natural rapeseed and soy wax. £28. duxmorebotanics.co.uk

Mindfully Lit Simple and super stylish candles with an added dose of wellness are the trademark of Mindfully Lit — an Island-based brand set up by Ukranian refugee Olga and her artist daughter Yuliya. Crafted from soy wax, with an eco-friendly wick, each candle comes with meditations and a wellness workbook — as well as making a donation to Ukrainian charities too. Ideal for spreading a little joy this festive season. £16.99 mindfullylit.com

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Photo Credit: Holly Jolliffe.

ChilliWinter Of all the festive aromas out there, it’s pretty hard to beat the heady scent of frankincense and myrrh — which can conveniently be found in ChilliWinter’s trio of Amber Christmas Candles. Made by Kathy Chillistone from ethically sourced ingredients, these seasonal scents are amongst the brand’s tried and tested favourites, providing a warm glow from their amber-coloured glass jars. £16 each or £40 for all three. chilliwinter.co.uk

Isle of Wight Candles Tea lights are a firm fixture of most Christmases — but they shouldn’t have to be boring! Pop into the new home of Isle of Wight Candles in Cross Street, Ryde, where Jenny (formerly of Pure Wight Soy Candles) offers packs of six tea lights, scented with everything from cinnamon and clove to winter spice and gingerbread. £7.50 etsy.com/shop/IsleofWightCandles

Wight Apothecary Amongst Tracey Simmonds-Bland’s sustainable online emporium of locally made goods (from beeswax wraps to macramé yoga straps) you’ll find a range of aromatherapy-oriented candles — perfect for some New Year self-care. Try the ‘Flourish’ candle for instance, which blends sweet orange, petitgrain, neroli and geranium to encourage personal growth and development — as well as providing a floral garden-scented aroma, reminding you that spring will soon be on its way! £17.50 wightapothecary.co.uk

November and December 2023

Style

scoop

Get into the festive spirit with a wea lth of celebratory activ ities on offer across the Island. From gif t ideas to seasona l arts and craf ts and experiences to remember, there’s plenty to get you in the mood for y u le! Christmas Fair at Dimbola 18th – 19th November Dimbola Museum and Galleries The Little British Camera Company at Dimbola Museum and Galleries offers restored and reconditioned vintage film cameras; using film to take photographs has increased in popularity in recent years. They also sell the 35mm, 120 roll and 110 film cartridges you will need, and developing kits to create your own prints, along with books on developing your own prints. For full information visit dimbola.co.uk

’Merry and Bright’: A Spectacular Celebration Ryde, Isle of Wight— Friday 8th and Saturday 9th December The enchanting town of Ryde is set to come alive with the magic of the holiday season as New Carnivals “Ryde Merry and Bright’, a free event, returns. This year it will be a two-day extravaganza, promising an incredible experience for all ages. The festivities and late-night shopping, commence on Friday, December 8th, with the lantern parade from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that sets the tone for the entire weekend. Residents and visitors alike are invited to join this dazzling procession- bring your lantern and meet near Aspire, at the top of Dover Street for 5.45pm, where the streets will be illuminated with the warm glow of lanterns, spreading cheer and unity. For more information, and to download the full event programme, visit: www.newcarnival.co.uk

Santa specials at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway 21st – 24th December – Havenstreet

Sit back a nd rela x i n style as you a nd you r fa m i ly enjoy you r ow n cabi n on a lu x u r y stea m-powered locomotive trip from Havenstreet to the North Pole. A f ter you r jou rney you ca n sit a nd watch the mag ic show w ith a n ice wa rm m i nce pie a nd a g lass of mu l led w i ne, a nd not long a f ter you’l l be able to meet Sa nta Claus a nd h is elves. If you’re on the n ice l ist you’l l receive a present. T here w i l l be themed wa l ks too. For full information visit iwsteamrailway.co.uk/events/santa-specials

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A Blue Christmas Saturday 16th December Seaview Hotel

Seav iew Hotel w i l l host thei r a n nua l Ch ristmas pa rty where you ca n enjoy a festive d i n ner a nd l ive enterta i n ment from Isla nd blues ba nd – a nd one of ou r ed itor’s favou rites – Lew is Berr y. For full information visit: seaviewhotel.co.uk/events

Christmas at Tapnell Farm

2nd – 24th December – Tapnell Farm (selected dates) You’l l receive a letter from Sa nta h i msel f i nv iti ng you to come a nd help h i m save Ch ristmas. Help Sa nta f i nd h is most rel iable a nd trustworthy postmaster Son ny the Snow ma n. Complete cha l lenges a nd puzzles to g u ide you a long the way as you meet cha racters a nd ma ke friends, u nti l at the end you’l l meet Sa nta h i msel f! For full information visit: tapnellfarm.com/play/events/christmas-at-tapnell

Italian Christmas Market 10am – 4pm, Saturday 2nd December Ristorante Michelangelo, Ryde Food lovers should always make sure to have this event on your shopping list. Indulge yourself and your family and friends with the deliciously festive Italian treats and more from the authentic stores of Ristorante Michelangelo.

Festive Cheer in our Market Town Saturday 16th December Newport Town Newport Business Association will be warmly welcoming visitors for a traditional day of festive cheer. Both St James’s and St Thomas’s square will have artisan stands, crafts, gifts and a series of street performances will ensure there is something to enjoy for everyone. With ample parking in and around the town, independent retail outlets offer some unique and very special gifts.

Ryde Victorian Arcade

New events for the yea r, watch th is space for more news! Su nda y 5th November

Fr ida y 8th December 5 to 8pm

A ntiques & Col lectables Fa i r 10a m-3pm

Merr y a nd Brig ht - A Cra f t Ma rket i n the Roya l Victoria A rcade.

Su nda y 12th November Vi ntage a nd Retro Fa i r 10a m-3pm ( Now ever y 2nd Su nday of the month)

Satu rda y 9th December 12 to 8pm

Su nda y 3rd December

Vi ntage a nd Retro Fa i r 10a m-3pm

A ntiques & Col lectables Fa i r 10a m-3pm

Merr y a nd Brig ht conti nues Su nda y 10th December

W I N A H A MPER T h roug hout November a nd December, a nyone spend i ng more tha n £10 i n the A rcade w i l l be entered i nto a d raw to w i n a ha mper of good ies prov ided by the shops i n the A rcade. November and December 2023

STYLE | Food

Meet Alex Kimber From Heron, Ryde By R ebecca Lawson

At Heron, dining is about the journey — of the produce from seed to plate, of the young staff who share Alex Kimber’s passion for all things culinary, and of the diners as they relish the full experience of their meal.

styleofwight.co.uk

Food | STYLE

But it’s not just the staff that are on a journey at Heron. From the seeds planted and nurtured on local fields to Nunwell Farm’s Purebred Belted Galloway grass-fed beef, or the cows milked at Briddlesford, the journey of almost every bit of produce used in Alex’s menus can be traced from inception to plate, usually never leaving the island. Heron’s ever-changing menus are complete Island locals. ‘“The journey is what’s important here at Heron. A dish is not just a steak on a plate — we want to tell a story. Why are we serving this cut of meat? Why are we serving it with this side? Why are we serving it at this time of year? If our steaks come from corn-fed cows, we might serve them with a corn side; there’s a reason for every decision and it all comes together to tell the story of the produce, how it is relevant to our restaurant and to an Isle of Wight diner.” “Our menus are devised around what is fresh at the time, so they change with the seasons. It isn’t me deciding what I want for a dish and then sourcing it, I speak to our local partners at places like Island Foods or Nunwell Farm and ask them what they’ve got, and then the menu creates itself around what is available at any given time of year. We always do a taster with the staff, too, so

Walking up quirky Union St in Ryde on my way to two AA Rosette restaurant Heron, the first thing I notice is a very comfortablelooking bulldog lounging half out of the window of the lounge bar ready to begin work as soon as service starts. This is Remus, a permanent front-of-house staff member in Heron’s cocktail lounge, whose job it is to welcome visitors and just look generally gorgeous. It soon becomes apparent that Remus is part of the family at Heron. Separated into two sections — the cocktail lounge where guests enjoy free canapés and drinks, and the fine dining restaurant next door — Heron is one big family, and all the staff are included. This, Executive Chef and Owner Alex Kimber assures me, is at the heart of all they do. From front-of-house staff (like Remus) to wait staff who are sent to train at the double Michelin-starred restaurant Le Gavroche with legendary chef Michel Roux, across to Head Chef Liam, staff at Heron are all carefully chosen. “I want my staff to be here because they want to be, not because they need a quick summer job. That is why I spend time training them to be the best in their industry — there is great career growth in this industry for young people who take this career path seriously,” says Alex.

November and December 2023

STYLE | Food

they can fully discuss all aspects of their meal with guests — where it comes from, why we’ve served it this way, what wine might pair well with it. There is a reason for every aspect of the meal and a logic behind every choice on the menu.” With a journey comes an experience, and that is what dining at Heron is all about. You’ll find no slap-up dinners with Alex Kimber. Eating at Heron is an interactive experience from the moment you walk through the front door, where the first thing you will see is the open kitchen. And I don’t mean just any open kitchen — at Heron, the kitchen is like a stage, with the chefs on show throughout your meal. If service allows, they are open for a chat and to showcase to guests what the creation of their meal entails. It’s not just the staff and produce that is on a journey at Heron. With an international career spanning many years, seven of which were spent working as head chef at Wimbledon, Alex Kimber’s journey is well underway, and it certainly isn’t going to stop any time soon. Heron seems to be just the start of his Island journey, with outside catering a possibility. He already serves a few lucky customers in this way — earlier this year, the entire Heron staff travelled to Wimbledon to serve Alex’s Island-based menu at the exclusive Centre Court Skyview Suites to diners who included elite athletes and celebrities. So how did a chef who has travelled the world and worked in such renowned establishments end up on the Isle of Wight? He answers with a shrug “That’d be the wife! She’s a local and it is just such a perfect place to raise a family. I love the island; its people and produce are world-class. I want Heron to be the inspiration for young Island people to start a career in the hospitality

styleofwight.co.uk

industry, for them to be able to take the skills they learn here and use them on an international stage. It’s the same with the produce — it is truly world-class. If it is at all possible to get it on the island, then we do. And we’ve discovered that Wight produce is of such great quality that we now take it off island to showcase as well!”

the perfect Christmas feast? “Barbeque,” he laughs. “But you can’t use just any BBQ, it has to be slow-cooked over charcoal, and there must be no gas in sight. I use the Green Egg — those warm flavours infuse the meat with an irresistible festive smokiness — and barbequing outdoors in the freezing cold has a Christmas charm all of its own!”

Of course, with the silly season fast approaching, I couldn’t help but squeeze Alex for a top Christmas tip, and his answer certainly surprised me! Alex’s advice for

What’s on the cards next for this Island culinary advocate? Shhhh, it’s still a secret, but take my word for it — this is the space to watch!

Food | STYLE

F R O M E GY P T TO E T H E R E A L I N I M AG E S AT D I M B O L A This autumn Dimbola Museum and Galleries has an Egyptian exhibition by David Tunnicliffe, ‘Images of an Antique Land’; a selection of photographs from John Bradshaw of remarkable people who lived on the Island, and their literary connections; and an astoundingly beautiful exhibition ‘Light Bends in Imaginary Gardens’ by Syd Buron in The Studio. John Bradshaw’s images have been produced digitally but include some ‘replicas’ of 19th century early printing techniques and include Queen Victoria and Prince Albert at Osborne House, Julia Margaret Cameron at Dimbola, and Alfred Lord Tennyson at Farringford and quotations by Tennyson, Cameron, John Keats, Longfellow, and W H Auden.

Dimbola Museum and Galleries’ shop has loads of lovely gift ideas and recently we have partnered with The Little British Camera Company to offer restored and reconditioned vintage film cameras. Using film to take photographs has increased in popularity in recent years and The Little British Camera Company has a selection of stunning original film cameras on offer along with the 35mm, 120 roll, and 110 film cartridges you will need. Plus, you can buy a developing kit to create your own prints and buy books on developing your own prints. Dimbola.co.uk Dimbola Museum and Galleries Terrace Lane Freshwater Bay PO40 9QE

Syd Buron has captured nature at its most ethereal, then taken his negatives into the darkroom at Dimbola and printed the results onto his collection of antiqueframed mirrors. The process shares much in common with the process Julia Margaret Cameron used in her darkroom in the same building. Syd painted a photo-sensitive liquid emulsion and exposed negatives of his photographs (some manipulated, as well as some found, vintage negatives) onto the coated surface. The mirrors were then developed and fixed in the darkroom, like a print. November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

Mural Brings the Coast to Newport

art of the Island’s coastline has been brought into Newport in an exciting new mural created by a group of young people working with artist Laura Hathaway and creative health charity, Independent Arts.

The striking black and white mural, which can be found in the Little London car park next to Quay Arts, was funded by the Isle of Wight AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) to increase the engagement of young people with the rural areas of the Isle of Wight, while supporting wellbeing and improved confidence and self-esteem. The project started back in June, with a trip on the number 12 bus to Compton Bay. The young people spent a day with Laura Hathaway and Independent Arts, painting and drawing what they saw and felt, and described the experience as ‘inspiring’, ‘relaxing’, ‘peaceful’, ‘happy’, and ‘calm’, which was exactly what the team at the charity had hoped for. Laura Hathaway agreed that visiting Compton Bay was an essential part of the creative process: “It inspired many conversations about flora and fauna, the island environment, art, and personal experiences. The visit inspired and informed the amazing mural created by our group of young people, who not only gained exposure to the AONB but gained confidence, self-worth, made friends, strengthened friendships, and had a very unique creative outlet.”

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The new mural, which was painted with the kind permission of Hursts, the island chain of hardware shops, extends the monochrome art trail in Newport created by groups of young people working with Laura Hathaway and Independent Arts over the past year. You can see more of the trail – part of Artswork’s original Supporting Young Minds investment programme, delivered on the Isle of Wight by The Island Collection – at Newport Bus Station, Chain Lane, and in the windows of various shops around the town. Evaluation of the programme by the University of Sussex suggested that involvement in youth-led public art of this kind can have a measurable impact on the confidence and mental wellbeing of the young people involved. Teamwork and co-operation were key elements in the process, as one of the young people explained: “We all mix around the space to mix our different styles together.” “In many ways, the Newport art trail exemplifies the work done by Independent Arts,” said the charity’s chief executive, Lisa Gagliani. “The young people have worked together in a safe and friendly environment, to produce really high-quality artworks, boosting self-confidence and supporting wellbeing.” For further information and to support Independent Arts, go to their website: www.independentarts.org.uk/donate

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November and December 2023

STYLE | Art

Inspired by the magic and majesty of frosty nights and starr y skies, icy mornings and crisp air, this festive make harnesses the power of sodium chloride to create ar tistic alchemy.

Materials: Paper (Watercolour paper is ideal) Watercolour Paints With Lau ren Fr y, A rts Educator Step 1: Create a constellation of star stickers on a piece of paper. Step 2: Paint a night sky inspired watercolour wash over the paper, blending colours and experimenting with effects as you go. Step 3: Sprinkle the wet paint with sea salt and leave to dry. Step 4: Once dry, brush away the salt and carefully remove the stickers. Now let your imagination run wild and create something festive and magical.

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Star Stickers Sea Salt

Art | STYLE

A star is a beacon of hope a shining light that guides the way. It’s a symbol of positivity, happiness or renewal and for centuries people have been wishing on shooting stars to benefit from their mystical power

Lauren has transformed her winter y, whimsical paintings into a collection of miniature festive houses complete with tiny welcoming doors and smoke billowing from minute chimneys.

The centerpiece of this magical make is a star spotted bird soaring through the night sk y, inspired by the my thology constellations - imagine a whole menagerie of star dwelling creatures hanging in a window, as a gif t tag on an ex tra special present or decorating a tree this fabulous festive season. November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

Primal Instincts

Meet the Artist

Laura Hathaway Words: James Rayner Photography: Julian Winslow

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Feature | STYLE

November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

Painting directly onto glass and paper surfaces with her hands and fingertips, the physicality of pressing, smearing, and throwing thick globules of paint onto glass and paper surfaces captures Laura’s feelings and movements. Laura uses music as an emotional trigger to create energetic marks and shapes, capturing the intimacy and intensity of her own emotions. The works are a messy, physical expression through paint and mark making. The minimal, primal marks are powerful and strong, highlighted by Laura’s monochromatic black and white palette. The glass and paper surfaces are fragile in comparison, easily smashed, broken or torn. Once dried, Laura examines and observes each glass panel. Reflecting on her pigmented fingerprints, squiggles of paint and smudges, she chooses which painted marks to keep and which to remove. The process of erasing marks is therapeutic; seamlessly scraped and polished from the surface of the glass as if they never existed, Laura aims to create a balance within the minimal marks. These abstract expressions are finally put through a process of assemblage. Over time, this has evolved into a ritualistic, meditative

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practice. The transparent nature of the glass allows the artist to layer up her marks. To find gestures that harmonise together, exploring the interaction of shape, light, and shadow. Laura repeatedly moves and re-adjusts materials before finally settling on a composition. The assembly and partnering of pieces fill the artist with a calm relief. A stark contrast to the messy, physical, emotionally charged making process. Laura has always conceived her artworks in three-dimensional forms, creating pieces made up of multiple layers, considering shadows created by the dark painted marks as just another layer to her work. The completed pieces are multilayered, with paint, material, light, shadow, reflections, movement, and space of equal importance within each assemblage of parts. The work constantly changes throughout the day and night, with different settings and locations creating alternative shadows, reflections, and interactions. The works sit between painting and sculpture. Website: www.laurahathawayartist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurahathawayartist/

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Laura Hathaway was born in Birmingham in 1988. She is a contemporary British painter working from her studio on the Isle of Wight. Laura trained at Falmouth University completing a BA in textile design with a specialism in hand embroidery, graduating in 2011. In 2013 she was selected to be an artist in residence, participating in the Jubilee Stores ‘Start Up Studio Program’, funded by Arts Council England and awarded additional funding by ACE for her joint exhibition ‘Line & Shade’. She has exhibited regularly and had her first solo exhibit in 2016 at K6 Gallery Southampton. In 2017 Laura was shortlisted for the Jerwood Artist Bursary Award. New works were also selected and pieces commissioned to participate in ‘I’M IN THE GARDEN’, a show and public installation curated by artist Jo Hummel-Newell, supported by Ryde Arts Festival and ACE. In 2018 Laura was nominated and shortlisted by Jerwood Charitable Trust as an exceptional early-career artist. In 2020 Laura was selected to receive support from the ACE Emergency Response Fund and in 2021 received a DYCP grant from ACE for her project ‘I Grow’. In 2022 Laura was artist in residence for a month-long Ryde Arts Residency and bursary scheme supported by ACE and Ryde Town Council, where she developed her performance work and installation ‘Ten’. Laura was also the commissioned artist to create a piece of public art ‘No Ball Games’ funded by ACE Jubilee Fund and the Isle of Wight and Hampshire Trust, and awarded a fully funded photoshoot by artist Julian Winslow through ‘IW Creative Network’. Most recently, Laura was the commissioned artist to create a number of place-changing pieces of public art with young people in the local area, supported by The Island Collection, IW CEP, Arts Work, AONB and National Lottery Grants. Saatchi Art and The Other Art Fair selected Laura to show her latest works in their Summer edition Kings Cross Art Fair. Laura was also selected to participate in group show ‘WISH YOU WERE HERE’, an exhibition curated by internationally respected artist Jo Hummel taking place at Peer Studios for the duration of Ventnor Fringe week. November and December 2023

fox&robin for Christmas

1 Wheatsheaf Lane, Yarmouth Isle of Wight. PO41 0PF info@foxandrobiniow.co.uk 01983 760557

@fox_and_robin

Handmade Jewellery Inspired by the Ocean …Made to be Worn Anywhere.

YARMOUTH GALLERY Contemporary Art & Craft

est.1997

nd us in the high street

& a great little card shop

Open 7 days a week.

NEW

Jewellery Workshops Day courses in jewellery making Group or individual bookings with discounts for 2 or more ...come and be creative

MANY BEAUTIFUL HANDMADE OBJECTS

www.yarmouthgallery.com

Cast in Solid Sterling Silver from the mould of real shells. Collections for both Men and Women.

Island & UK Artists

paintings textiles ceramics prints jewellery sculpture studio glass turned wood

Visit us in our Workshop and Studio to see how it is all made.

Emily Deakock

ARRETON BARNS CRAFT VILLAGE IOW PO30 3AA Tel. 01983 685578

Open Everyday

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Style spectrum

Vincent Dupont-Shaw Vincent Dupont-Blackshaw, a French photographer living on the Isle of Wight, is documenting life on this fascinating island on his website www.LifeOnTheIsleOfWight.co.uk He has been working as a professional photographer for the past four years. Trained in the arts, his work takes him across the world, seeking stories of new places to share with his audience. From these travels he brings back unique memories of the moments he captures. Vincent sells his work online and through group exhibitions worldwide. He has received several awards for his photographs at the British Photography Awards, Annual International Photography Competition (Florida Museum of Photographic Arts), Budapest International Foto Awards, International Photography Awards (IPA), Minimalist Photography Awards, Prix de la Photographie de

Above: Santa Express Fujifilm X-E3, 23mm Lens. Is there a better place to meet the real Santa Claus than in a vintage, heated wagon (during the Santa Special of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway)? He is probably the most famous visitor in the world, entering every home once a year.

Paris, San Francisco Bay International Photo Awards, and Tokyo International Foto Awards. “I look for moments that are quietly unique. Often an isolated thing or person in an environment that, on first glance, is ordinary but on second glance tells a subtle story. Light plays an essential part in how I see that story being told, creating a mood and provoking feeling in each image. As a travel photographer, I strive to catch the essence of the place I am in at that exact time. My role is to tell a story of that place for people to connect with.” For more information on his work, you can visit his portfolio www.VincentDupontBlackshaw.com or find him on Instagram or Facebook @Vincent.Dupont.Blackshaw and @LifeOnTheIsleOfWight

November and December 2023

STYLE | Art

Above: Snow Bikes Fujifilm X-E3, 25mm Lens. I arrived in Helsinki in January right after a snow storm. Despite the cold, I went for a walk and discovered a city covered in snow.

Right: Cowley Manor Fujifilm X-E3, 55mm Lens. Located in the Cotswolds, Cowley Manor is an enchanting place. It’s even truer under the snow. You can see why Lewis Carroll wrote his best-known book, Alice in Wonderland, during his stays in the village, drawing his inspiration from the grounds of Cowley Manor.

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Art | STYLE

November and December 2023

STYLE | Art

Stillness Fujifilm X-E3, 55mm Lens. I was in a car, heading back to my hotel when I saw these sheep grazing in a snowy field. I stopped to take a shot and the sheep stopped grazing in the snowfall to stare. (The Cotswolds, UK)

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Art | STYLE

November and December 2023

STYLE | Art

Above: The Light Above Fujifilm X-E3, 35mm Lens. The ferry crossing back to the Isle of Wight is always a magical moment for me. Depending on the season, the time of day, or the weather, the journey is different every time.

Left: Self portrait of Vincent Dupont-Shaw

If you would like to see your work featured in our Style Spectrum pages, please email in the first instance with two or three images only and a short description to office@styleofwight.co.uk

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ART SALE

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Over 35 IOW artists selling original artwork painting, printmaking, sculpture & ceramics Montage Place (The Depository) 23 Nelson Street, Ryde PO33 2EZ

Free Entry Opening Hours Feb 3rd 5 - 7pm Feb 4th-10th 10am-4pm

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Gift Guide Get into the festive spirit and discover our delightful Christmas gift guide that celebrates the unique and inspiring offerings from our local shops. There’s something to suit all tastes and budgets from cosy coffee shops filled with festive flavours, to boutiques showcasing carefully curated selections.Take the stress out of gifting and let the knowledgeable retailers help you find the perfect present. Whether you’re looking for artisanal treats, handmade crafts or stylish fashion pieces, our local shops have it all wrapped up. For the foodies explore Briddlesford Farm shop’s local produce, for the garden lover Bayliss & Booth has an extensive selection of stocking fillers and thoughtful gifts, if you’re looking to give the gift of hygge head to Acacia Bay where cosy is the mood of the season. For those one-off pieces Victoria Arcade in Ryde has a wealth of independent sellers with everything from vintage pieces to children’s stocking fillers. And when you’re ready for some peace and quiet step into Babushka Books, where you can browse the bookshelves from the comfort of a vintage armchair. So, this season start your Christmas shopping in style and head to your local high street for a joyful, traditional retail experience.

Handmade Wreath from £50 Bembridge flower shop

November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

For Him

For Him: Embroidered cushion £25 XV STRIPES, Vintage scar f £17.50 / Vintage silk scar f £37.50 DIG FOR VINTAGE, Black lava bead bracelet £55 THOMAS P COCHRAN, Ted Baker wallet £45 / Polo Ralph Lauren cashmere blend knit £199 / Ralph Lauren sock gif t set £49.95 VISUAL IMPACT, Craf t rum £32 / Island roasted single origin cof fee £7.50 & £9.50 CAFFE ISOLA, Bot tle matches £14.99 BAYLISS & BOOTH, Winter wellness men’s gif t set £45 / Aromatic candle £20 BECALMED, Parakeet ar t £42 / Hand craf ted dogs £30 each FOX & ROBIN, Red bauble £20 COUNTRY VINTAGE RYDE VICTORIA ARCADE, Red berries from £1 per stem FLOWER GARDEN

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For Him: Timberland boot £140 / Herschel backpack £85 / Barbour sock £16.95 / Barbour beanie £30 VISUAL IMPACT, Bamboo tray £9.95 / IOW coaster £2.45 HANDPICKED IOW RYDE VICTORIA ARCADE, Nesti Dante soap £5.25 / Jolly Good beard oil £3.30 GIBBS & GURNELL, Wool Throw £99 XV STRIPES, Hario ceramic cof fee mill £29 / French press £30 CAFFE ISOLA, Set of 12 seaweed postcards £13 / Black triangle mug £4 DOT T Y RYDE VICTORIA ARCADE, Notebook £8.99 / Beach Clean key fob £12.99 / Zinc tray £6.75 BAYLISS & BOOTH, Vintage ruler £6 / Vintage magnif ying glass £65 / Locally produced ink £15 / Ink brush £5 BABUSHKA BOOKS, Air plants £12.50 / Wooden stars from £6.50 FLOWER GARDEN, Recycled tin star £15, COUNTRY VINTAGE RYDE VICTORIA ARCADE, Acacia coasters £7 each ACACIA BAY, Hip flask £45 FOX & ROBIN November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

For Her

For Her: Fan hook £15 FOX & ROBIN, Foliage from £1 per stem / Star candle holders £3.50 each FLOWER GARDEN, Beaded headband £29.95 / Clutch Bag £79.95 / Fur trimmed gloves £24.95 / Colour block scar f £31.95 / Beaded hairclip (par t of set) £16.50 BOU CHIC, William Morris hand wash £15.40 / Lavender sleep mask £15.40 / Wash bag £15.40 / Mavala nail polish £6.40 each GIBBS & GURNELL, Bath elixir £35 / French soap £7 ACACIA BAY, Bath melt £3.99 BAYLISS & BOOTH, Dansk bangle £45 / Red But ton knit ted jacket £65 VISUAL IMPACT, Ten Poems About Families £5.95 BABUSHKA BOOKS, Tipsy Wight cherr y liqueur £7.99 BRIDDLESFORD FARM SHOP, Large bauble £20 / Small bauble £6 COUNTRY VINTAGE RYDE VICTORIA ARCADE, ZO Skin Health set and eye cream THE COURT YARD AESTHETIC CLINIC

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For Her: Barbour wax coat £279 / Depeche bag £95 / Timberland lace up boot £155 / Par t Two socks £20 / Par t Two scar f £60 each VISUAL IMPACT, Chalk sherpa bag £26.99 BAYLISS & BOOTH, Annie Sloan paint your own tray kit £39.50 DIG FOR VINTAGE, Eucalyptus stems from £1 FLOWER GARDEN, The Wild Remedy book £14.99 / Jane Austen Persuasion £14.99 BABUSHKA BOOKS, Espa Winter spice candle £45 BECALMED, Bir thstone bracelets with charm from £55 each THOMAS P COCHRAN

November and December 2023

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For Children

For Children: Jane Foster colouring book £6 / Kazoo £3 / Lavender bear £8 / Hedgehog print by local ar tist £12 / Mit tens £14.95 / Jellycat Christmas tree £31.50 / Jellycat reindeer £56.95 / Maileg dress £42.95 / Bolero £25.95 / local ar tist £16.50 HANDPICKED IOW RYDE / VICTORIA ARCADE Kokoa white hot chocolate £6 CAFFE ISOLA

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Vintage Ladybird Picture Dictionar y £9.50 / Straw basket £24.50 DIG FOR VINTAGE Fleece lined hat £14.95 Moomin hot water bot tle £27.50 BOU CHIC Moominpappa At Sea £11.99 BABUSHKA BOOKS Mouse mug by

November and December 2023

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For the Gardener

For The Gardener: Handmade wreath from £50 BEMBRIDGE FLOWER SHOP, Vintage British Birds book £9.50 DIG FOR VINTAGE, Hand soap £14.99 / The Gardening Puzzle Book £12.99 / Jute string with scissors £19.99 / Tin wall print £12.99 / Gardeners Hack Wax £11.50 / Garden scissors in pouch £11.99 / Chalkboard plant labels £3.99 BAYLISS & BOOTH, Isle of Wight Honey £8.99 BRIDDLESFORD FARM SHOP, Small broom £16 ACACIA BAY, Owl wall hanging £28.99 / Metal herb stake £8 / Romanian plate £20 / Seed card £3.99 VICTORIANIA LANES RYDE VICTORIA ARCADE

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For the Foodie

For The Foodie: Homemade Christmas pudding £8.99 / But ter dish & but ter £22.98 / Cheese board £42.50 / Cheese knives £8.95 / Briddlesford cheeses from £4.40 / Wild Island dressing £7.50 / Isle of Wight Smoked Tomatoes £5.60 BRIDDLESFORD FARM SHOP, Red glass candle £42 ACACIA BAY, Table decoration from £25 / foliage from £1 per stem FLOWER GARDEN, Specialit y cof fee beans £32 SHEER PINK, Salad ser vers £15 COUNTRY VINTAGE RYDE VICTORIA ARCADE, Paint swatch enamel tray £15.99 BAYLISS & BOOTH, Peppermint creams £7 / Summerdown bar £3.50 CAFFE ISOLA, Island mug £ 14 / Red squirrel tea towel by local ar tist £18 FOX & ROBIN

November and December 2023

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For the Home

For The Home: Reindeer rug (A Grade) £250 / Black metal tray £45 / Pinocchio decoration £20 / Tin house decoration £15 With Old & New book £30 / Ceramic candle holders £11.99 each BAYLISS & BOOTH, Dried fruit decorations from 20p each

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Tall lantern £42 / Metal JOY decoration £45 / Paper decoration small £7 large £8 ACACIA BAY, Create: At Home THE FLOWER GARDEN, Annie Sloan stencil gif t kit £24.95 DIG FOR VINTAGE

November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

The Talk of the Old Village:

Behind the Bar at Shanklin’s Village Inn By Ja mes R ay ner

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Feature | STYLE

mongst the characterful cottages of the Old Village in Shanklin, you’ll find the Village Inn — a sturdy stone pub, topped with thatch (and illuminated by twinkling lights if you pass by after sunset). Built way back in the 1830s, it was originally named Vine Cottage and has been a grocer’s, lodging house, refreshment rooms, and restaurant over the years, even briefly becoming a rather smoky bakery in 1887 — much to the annoyance of next-door hotelier Mr Boehme.

November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

Since 1990, this Grade II listed piece of history (which is rumoured to have a haunted first floor) has been run by the Ottley family, who have certainly left their mark on this little corner of Shanklin. Taking a seat today in a window flooded by autumn light, looking out onto the twisting road, daughter Lisa tells us how it all began.

Stepping through the doors today, you’ll most likely meet brother Kevin behind the bar, whilst Lisa takes care of the kitchen, often with her twenty-eight-year-old son Joshua as sous-chef. Dad Paul has now hung up his apron and retired from the business; however, Joan is still as heavily involved as ever.

“My dad’s family first moved down to the Island from Peckham in the 1950s, sensing great potential for both business and a better environment to raise a family here. They bought The Glenbrook Hotel in Shanklin Old Village (now known as Harry’s Bar) and created the successful Henry’s Kitchen restaurant, run by my dad after he’d finished studying at catering college in Portsmouth.

On the Village Inn’s menu, diners will discover a number of locally linked dishes, from handpicked Ventnor crab as a main to an enticing Isle of Wight cheeseboard for dessert, as well as a few nostalgic Ottley specialities too.

“My mum, Joan, was originally from Manchester, the daughter of an engineer. She started off working in the fashion industry as a pattern designer and cutter but decided to come down to the Isle of Wight in her early twenties to do a summer season — which is when she met my dad, Paul. Fast forward a few years and they’d got married, had me and my brother Kevin, and taken over the keys to the Hollier’s Hotel in 1980, followed a few years later by this place, which they opened as the Vine Restaurant.” At the time Shanklin was known as a destination for top-notch restaurants, with legendary but long-gone institutions like The Cottage in Eastcliff Road still being talked about today. However, that didn’t deter the Ottleys. “The restaurant was busy from day one,” Lisa explains, “and growing up I was involved in everything from waitressing to washing up. After a few years, my mum decided to turn the restaurant into a traditional, family-run pub, which is when it became the Village Inn, back in 1991. Since then, we’ve been blessed with a loyal base of local customers as well as plenty of tourists who come back year after year — some of them even send us Christmas cards!”

“Our customers love the beef and ale pies; it’s not always easy keeping up with the demand for those, and a number of our regulars ask me to message them when we put the Wellington back on as a special; they just enjoy it that much.” During the cooler months, when the Inn’s Victorian fireplaces are roaring away, the Sunday Roast is another big pull, featuring either beef, pork, turkey, or gammon alongside crispy roast potatoes or creamy mash, honeyroasted carrots and parsnips, homemade apple sauce, and silkysmooth gravy. “We’ve recently started doing cakes and cream teas too,” Lisa adds “after noticing most of the village’s tea rooms close for winter. Plus, we’ve got Lorna in our team, and she bakes the most amazing cakes. She’s just made a Red Velvet. I don’t even like cake… but I like that cake!” Open every day of the year except Christmas Day, with live music every Friday and Saturday and the unbeatable hospitality of a family that has been in the game for decades — it’s no surprise that the Village Inn has become such a firm feature of Shanklin’s drinking and dining scene. After a quick look over the pub’s range of real ales, including the popular Bristol-brewed Butcombe beer, and a tour of the old stone cellar, it’s time to take our leave — however, we have a strong suspicion we’ll be back again before too long. Village Inn, Church Road, Shanklin, PO37 6NU

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MA TT HE AT TH W SA E H TO T CE U AM MK LE RD BR AY BR INS 23 AT OU ON R I NG SIX D GH D T E C H O C OU R

F2 EB EM 02 ES BE SE T FO 6:3 3 R TA DI RP 0P SH ST M RE I ES FO NG LIV -DI R N E M NE 7P ME M R NU HA US CA IC AD NA RR £9 D F PE IE R W 9 S TJ OM TASTING . IN 0 A SEASONAL 5 COURSE MENU 0P EF A N From 7th 22nd December perfect for parties or intimate dinners - £69 per person LIG ER E HT PE THE BEST OF 2023 £5 23rd R - Celebrating our Best Dishes of 2023 Saturday 9.0 December A Six C 0ourse Tasting MenuS Music from Harriet Jane - £99 per person 0 P andOLive N E R YEAR’S EVE NEW PE

Celebrate the New Year in Foodie Heaven with a Six Course Tasting Menu Feast with Champagne and Canapes - £99 per person

RS O

MULTI-AWARD WINNING EXECUTIVE CHEF

Co Matthew Tomkinson or nta em ct ail :01 £2 : in 9 5p f o 83 8 er @t pe VENTNOR, he 563 PO38 1SQ Tel. 01983 856333 rs 33 ha on Lo mwww.thehambrough.com ok de br to November and December 2023 in a t po ou b o ab sit ab g to gh ok l ou .co to e St t

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

CHRISTMAS AT THE GARLIC FARM SHOP & RESTAURANT

The Garlic Farm is also host to the I Love Wight Pop Up Christmas Artisan Shop in the allium granary barn from 10th November to 24th December.

Open daily 9am to 5pm Plus Saturday Evening Dining from 25th November to 23rd December

Christmas Gifting Ideas from The Garlic Farm:

Browse the Garlic Farm Shop for a huge range of Garlic Farm and local products including lots of Christmas ideas, hampers and stocking fillers. Enjoy a cosy meal by log fires in the restaurant including gorgeous breakfast menu, the famous Christmas Mezze Evenings, Christmas Afternoon Teas and Christmas lunchtime menu.

- Garlic Farm Hampers - Garlic Farm Growing Garlic Kit - Wild Island Gift Sets

- Christmas Afternoon Tea - Black Garlic Vodka - Gift Vouchers

VBG@Home Your garden designed, sourced, built and planted by Ventnor Botanic Garden

botanic.co.uk/about/vbghome | 01983 855397 | info@botanic.co.uk

DIVE IN

Food | STYLE

French Zest A mixologist’s twist on the classic French75, a simple but elegant cocktail perfect for celebrations or as an aperitif on the big day. TASTE

INGREDIENTS

GARNISH

METHOD:

Crisp and Vibrant

25ml Mermaid Zest

A twist of lemon peel

Pour the desired measure of Mermaid Zest Gin into a flute and top with Champagne.

Top up with Champagne

November and December 2023

A Q U i TA N i A AT T H E S E AV i E W H O T E L The Aquitania is an intimate restaurant located at the front of the hotel that combines good food with modern unfussy service. The food offering features an array of local food. The style is very Modern British with a regional Isle of Wight twist. Our Chefs work hand-in-hand with many local producers crafting dishes such as Green Barn Farm goats cheese souffle with watercress veloute that is simply a taste of the Wight. The Aquitania has been awarded 2 AA Rosettes over six consecutive years.

To book a table call: 01983 612711 Address: The High Street, Seaview, Isle of Wight, England, PO34 5EX E-mail: reception@seaviewhotel.co.uk

Food | STYLE

A Wight Winter Menu Exploring This Season’s Local Specialities

With the chilly winds of winter now here to stay (but Christmas still a way off) we’ve rounded up an enticing selection of comforting and cockle-warming dishes from around the Island to tempt you this blustery season — from pan-roasted pheasant to braised lamb shoulder and everything in between. So nudge closer to that fire and get that rug over those knees as we dive into our wintery restaurant rundown.

A Pigeon in a Pear Tree First of all, we begin in the smart and sophisticated interior of Heron, an award-winning restaurant tucked away in Castle Street, Ryde. We’ve come to see Head Chef Alex Kimber’s latest seasonal offering and, as always, he never fails to impress. This time it’s the pan-roasted wood pigeon that steals the show, served alongside sweet caramelised root vegetables, cep mushroom, black pudding and a crispy leg — plus a drizzle of Madeira sauce to finish. Featuring as one of the ‘From the Farm’ dishes on his latest seasonal menu, it’s an opportunity too good to miss. heroniow.co.uk November and December 2023

STYLE | Food

All Good in the Pud

Ding Dong Merrily on Pie If comfort food is top of your agenda as the weather gets nippy, then you can’t go wrong with a visit to Shanklin’s Village Inn. We’d recommend finding yourself a comfy seat up against one of their roaring historic fireplaces and ordering yourself a Bristol-brewed Butcombe beer while you’re at it. Then, when you start to feel peckish, try Lisa’s homemade beef and ale pies — combining tender slow-cooked beef steak, a rich ale gravy, and a topping of shortcrust pastry. Warming, hearty, and a tad nostalgic, it’s just the thing you’d expect from a family with over thirty years in the industry. Village Inn, Church Road, Shanklin, PO37 6NU

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As Briddlesford Farm gears up for its festive markets, there’s one item in particular that makes its way into many a customer’s basket: ‘Mrs Griffin’s Christmas pudding’. Made in the farm kitchens each and every year, these rich and indulgent puddings are based on a recipe that is over sixty years old, handed down to co-owner Chris from her mother-in-law. Not only do these sticky, fruitfilled puds work well with a dab of brandy butter, but they’re also fantastic broken up and served with cream, meringue, and clementines to make an indulgent ‘Christmas Mess’. If you want to get your Briddlesford Christmas pudding early, pop into the Briddlesford Farm Shop and ask Louise. briddlesford.co.uk

Talking Italian!

Food | STYLE

If your furious bouts of festive shopping in Ryde get interrupted by a rain shower or two, take the opportunity to slip into Ristorante Michelangelo to enjoy a comforting continental meal. You could plump for the Stincotto di Maiale Rustico, for example, an olive oil-roasted pork shank served with tasty smoked bacon, mushrooms, and a red wine and lentil sauce. There’s also the Anatra alla Zucca e Pancetta, if you fancy something different; a fragrant dish comprising roasted duck leg, white wine, bacon, chickpeas, and cream of pumpkin. Whatever you go for though, don’t forget to pick up a festive panettone on your way out. ristorantemichelangelo.co.uk

Let’s Raise a Roast

Meanwhile, over at Ventnor Botanic Gardens, their traditional Sunday Roast is back by popular demand. Served in the bright and airy Plantation Room Café overlooking the lush green garden, each roast comes with a choice of beef, pork, or nut roast (as well as all the trimmings… naturally) cooked to perfection by their team of skilled chefs. Available every Sunday until February 2024, it could well become your new winter go-to dining destination.

All I Want For Christmas Is Ewe

botanic.co.uk

Last, but not least, we drop by The Fishbourne Inn, where Executive Chef Joel Yearsley is just serving up one of his latest menu additions. Rich, meaty, and oh-so-seasonal, his braised lamb shoulder is sure to please, served with crisp rösti potato and a cranberry and port reduction. Available to book for Christmas Day, diners can round off their festive meal with a choice of either traditional Christmas pudding, white chocolate berry roulade, spiced carrot, coconut and date pudding, or the rather enticing dark chocolate bavarois with hazelnut praline. innsofdistinction.co.uk November and December 2023

STYLE | Food

Style of Wight’s

Festive Cooking Tips

Adding a Little Spice to Those Vegetables Ra Hennessy, Marketing Manager, Ventnor Botanic Garden “Our very own Dr Hill Hassall’s Mild Chilli Sea Salt is the perfect thing to liven up your festive vegetables. Scatter over parsnips, carrots, and potatoes before roasting in the oven, or sprinkle over Brussels sprouts when they’re fresh from the pan. It’ll add a comforting warmth and a welcome surprise for any guests coming to join you too.”

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Looking to do things a bit differently this Christmas season? Us too! That’s why we asked a few of our friends and partners for their top culinary tips to make this year’s Christmas Dinner a meal to remember.

Food | STYLE

How to Get the Fluffiest of Potatoes

Getting the Most from Your Meat

Joel Yearsley, Executive Chef, The Fishbourne Inn

Alex Kimber, Head Chef and Owner, Heron Isle of Wight

“The best potato for the perfect roast would have to be King Edward potatoes. This is purely because their high starch content absorbs a lot of water when you parboil them which helps keep them fluffy and light but at the same time gives a nice crisp shell. They also pair perfectly with a little duck fat too.”

“Whether you’re cooking turkey, lamb, or beef for the big day, try cooking the meat on a barbeque for a change (ideally an American-style Green Egg charcoal barbeque if possible). Aim to cook low and slow for the perfect taste and a soft, sumptuous texture.”

The Ideal Nibble Whilst Watching The King’s Speech Rosy Pancot, Co-Owner, Ristorante Michelangelo “What would we, as Italians, eat whilst watching the King’s Speech? Elementary, my dear Watson! It has to be panettone accompanied by a glass of Asti Spumante or Moscato, followed by a hearty Italian coffee maybe. Italian food is very regional but we’re all united by this iconic festive sponge. You can get one for yourself at our Italian Christmas Market taking place from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 2nd December at Ristorante Michelangelo.”

And For Dessert… Christine Griffin, Co-Owner, Briddlesford Farm “We might be biased, but for a Christmas Day dessert, we’d opt for a selection of our rich, Guernsey-milk cheeses to create the ultimate festive cheeseboard. From our crumbly Briddlesford Red to our soft creamy Fetter and silky smooth Gouda, you’ll be spoilt for choice. We’ve also got an award-winning cheddar cheese, aged on wood from our ancient woodland for at least 12 months to give that wonderful mature flavour. All that’s left to get is the crackers!” November and December 2023

STYLE | Food

Making a Home of his Own

The Island’s newest food destination reveals a unique offering as it opens on Cowes High Street.

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Food | STYLE

From Head Chef at Three Buoys in Appley, where he earned his very first Rosette at the young age of twenty-two, Matt Egan’s culinary journey was clearly off to a blistering start. Joining The Royal as a Sous Chef at the age of twenty-four, he swiftly ascended to the position of Head Chef, garnering numerous accolades for his exceptional skills. At twenty-nine, Matt was the obvious choice to be the culinary maestro and public face of Cowes’s latest and most exquisitely cool addition to the restaurant scene—House. With an unwavering focus on the provenance of the very best local ingredients, Matt is resolute in his mission to support the Island’s producers, striving to create nothing short of extraordinary dishes using their products. ‘Being supported by and supporting the Island’s producers is of utmost importance to me. Their top-quality products inspire me to craft the finest dishes I possibly can.’ Minimising waste holds significant weight for Matt, prompting him to explore every opportunity to utilise

ingredients to their fullest potential. Picture this: shucking an oyster and collecting its juice over a chinois to create an exquisite Oyster Martini—a clear winner in my eyes! House itself is a refreshing change for the Cowes scene; as not only a chic metropolitan restaurant and bar, it will also be the first non-nautical private members club offering exclusive lifestyle and dining events, along with private members only areas opening soon. The sleek expanse of the dark marble bar that welcomes you upon entry hints at the experience to come. Dark walls adorned with exposed brick and industrial steel details, coupled with Edison lights casting their golden glow over deep green marble tables, evoke the ambiance of a gentlemen’s club or a sophisticated cigar lounge. The attention to detail at House is nothing short of meticulous—deep, dark, sleek, and sensual. Every element effortlessly converges to set the stage for an intimate evening of exquisite food and drinks.

It’s evident that House stands in a league of its own in comparison to what Cowes presently offers. As Matt asserts, ‘It’s a new chapter’ for the town. With three core mission statements—Curated, Sublime, and Sustainable—Matt and his team have set the bar high to meet and exceed the expectations of their customers. A carefully curated capsule wine list, with each bottle thoughtfully chosen to perfectly complement his dishes, along with an impressive array of Champagne choices, forms a selection designed to astonish and delight. Combine this with signature cocktails crafted by an exceptional mixologist and the simply sublime dishes conjured by Matt, and you have an irresistible proposition. Matt is resolute in making House the first award-winning restaurant in Cowes. Judging by the passion in his eyes for the food he creates, I have no doubt that he will achieve this feat. House, 103a High St, Cowes, PO31 7AT Tel: 01983 301103 Book online: www.housecowes.com November and December 2023

The Heron’s talented and masterful chefs, led by Alex Kimber and his team, have a passion for creating a unique and memorable dining experience. We are proud to boast all our fresh ingredients are locally sourced to ensure our delectable dishes reflect the season. Let us take you on a culinary journey of dining excellence, which has been recognised by our AA Award.

Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Heron Lounge. A Cocktail Bar with live music and entertainment every Saturday evening plus a choice of small dishes at lunchtime from the Heron's kitchen. Our full story and opening times : www.heroniow.co.uk RESERVATIONS Call: 01983 567192 Email: booking-heroniow@outlook.com 2 Castle Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight. PO33 2EP @heron_iow

Food | STYLE

Celery

With Wi l l Stewa rd, Liv i ng La rder Demanding of warm and wet weather, celery can be troublesome to grow but when picked fresh from the field it can be a sight to behold. Celery grows naturally to about two feet tall and all of the plant is edible. Obviously such a large vegetable presents a problem for transportation so the top half of the plant is generally discarded or processed, this means that most of us are conditioned to a very different item altogether. If the chance arises buy your celery with tops on and make it the centre stage cooked and in a gratin.

Celery Gratin

Method:

Ingredients:

Preheat your oven to 180°C/Gas 4. Separate your celery and remove the leaves, keep for later. Slice the stalks into chunks at an angle.

1 head of Celery 30g butter 1 garlic clove, finely chopped small sprig of thyme 1 bay leaf

Melt the butter an oven-proof pan, add the celery and toss to coat in the butter, then add the garlic, thyme, bay and wine. Turn up the heat and let the wine reduce by half. Add the stock, season and bring to a simmer. Pop on a lid or cover tightly with foil and place in the oven.

150ml double cream

Bake for 30 minutes, turning once half way through. Return the pan to the hob, and heat until the liquid reduces to a syrup, add the cream. Chop any celery leaves that you may have removed at the start and stir them in. Fish out the bay leaf and top with chunks of stilton and breadcrumbs, place back into the oven until the breadcrumbs are golden.

A couple of tablespoons breadcrumbs

Delicious with Christmas Gammon and a good slice of sourdough.

150ml glass white wine 300ml chicken or veg stock salt and pepper

50g Stilton Living Larder is a family-owned, Soil Association certified Organic farm. supplying local fruit and vegetable boxes. livinglarder.co.uk | Instagram: @livinglarder November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

WHAT A SHOW!

It couldn’t have been better. The Style of Wight Homes & Interiors Show on Sunday 15th October was a palpable hit with exhibitors and visitors alike. The sun shone down on this, the second year of the show. Some were new exhibitors while others were delighted to be returning. “It’s such a fabulous setting, and we had such a lot of interest last year,” was a constantly repeated theme. The aroma of roasting chestnuts greeted you as you walked into the courtyard of East Afton Farmhouse in Freshwater, the home for Style of Wight’s signature show. Craig, of Isle of Wight Kiln Dried Logs, was cooking and handing them out as a welcoming gift to the showgoers. Heat was also wafting from Charnwood, the stove people, who were proudly showing off their newest creation, a wood-burning oven and cooktop for your inglenook or summer house. The all-weather garden furniture by Woodstock Homes and Gardens also cut a dash: flames rising through the powder-coated aluminium table made everyone long to host their own whatever-the-temperature garden gathering.

East Afton Farmhouse proved once again the perfect venue for an event that showcased everything to do with house and home. From architects and holiday letting and estate agents to bespoke tilers, upholsterers, and bathroom fitters, right through to those finishing touches – that commissioned artwork, a special candle, a hand-turned lamp, or thrown ceramic. For show sponsors McCarthy and Booker, it was a great way to meet and greet clients past and present. “It’s fab,” said Georgie, Director. “We were pleased with the way it went last year and this year it’s even busier, earlier!” She and her fellow director were celebrating their playful new branding, showing estate agents can be friendly and approachable not stiff and starchy. The art of the interior was demonstrated in so many ways. Long-established Island style gurus Bayliss & Booth took time out

styleofwight.co.uk SAVE THE DATE! IOW Homes and Interiors Show 2024 – 12th/13th October

from their beautiful HQ in Wootton Bridge to chat and bring decor reassurance to all – as well as some Christmas decs to die for. Tile Superstore was there, raising awareness of its new three-level home in Newport, which is able to house 15 full display areas. The modern take on a trad bath that they brought to the show was certainly enticing. Wall tiles in delectable colours and rugs and runners as cosy as blankets were shown by Long Lane Carpets and Flooring in Newport, while it would be worth seeking out Wooldridge Interiors in their tucked-away home behind Central Garage in Newport for their surefooted take on the Island home, which is tangible evidence of their 30-year experience in the property industry. Alongside their interiors, mum and daughter Wendy and Sabrina used Style of Wight’s show to launch their own hair and beauty range. The Isle of Wight is nothing if not diverse.

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November and December 2023 For more info and to join our newsletter email office@styleofwight.co.uk OR for exhibitor enquires email hello@blackswanevent.co.uk

STYLE | Feature

But this is the essence of Style of Wight’s Homes & Interiors Show, as Izzey from coastal interiors specialist XV Stripes explained: “It’s a great show because if you want to build a home there’s structural people here, then all the interior bits that go with it. It’s so good for Islanders – exhibitors as much as visitors – because we can see everything in one place. We’re all very different so it’s quite complementary. It’s brilliant.” Visitors had a chance to see Izzey’s creations upstairs in the farmhouse, while downstairs the beautifully appointed kitchen became the place to see expert demonstrations. Dan from Island Coffee and Caffè Isola took time out from brewing coffee in the pop-up café to show how different the taste of coffee could be depending on the method of brewing. Everyone went home wishing for one of Dan’s state-of-the-art pod-based machines. Later, Mike Gane, the head chef of Gastronomy in Cowes, was demonstrating the art of canapé making: those lucky enough to be in the VIP Lounge were able to taste their own, with a rather special Champagne. There were other exciting live demonstrations going on. The Sewing Studio, based at Isle of Wight Pearl, was showing potential sewing bees how to make a makeup bag in just 30 minutes, surely a hook for anyone new or returning to sewing. The sheer quality of accessories was impressive – needle holders resembling expensive lipstick cases were just

styleofwight.co.uk SAVE THE DATE! IOW Homes and Interiors Show 2024 – 12th/13th October

Feature | STYLE

one example of something so desirable you might have wanted to invest in their almostadvent calendar, cheekily entitled ‘14 Sleeps Until Stitchmas’. In the barn, Neil Tregear showed how he creates the timelessly beautiful shapes for which his pottery is known. He also hinted at the secret of the matt and shiny blend of its decoration. It was a treat to see Neil as he has been severely unwell. “The sheer desire to get back to making pots again propels me, despite all the aches and pains,” he said. Just as the pages of Style of Wight feature the big and the small, the structural infrastructure to the one-person-band, the show was as much about the finishing touches to your home. The breezy seascapes and freely gathered flower paintings of artist

November and December 2023 For more info and to join our newsletter email office@styleofwight.co.uk OR for exhibitor enquires email hello@blackswanevent.co.uk

STYLE | Feature

styleofwight.co.uk SAVE THE DATE! IOW Homes and Interiors Show 2024 – 12th/13th October

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November and December 2023 For more info and to join our newsletter email office@styleofwight.co.uk OR for exhibitor enquires email hello@blackswanevent.co.uk

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Angela Sowden would grace any home – she was taking commissions ‘for people who have a space for a nice painting’. Wildly exotic pictures or textured finishes on interior panels or splashbacks are the signature of Studio Delma, recently moved from London to the Island. “People who may be from a different country want the flowers or animals they grew up with incorporated in their property here,” said India, showing voluptuous coloured blooms and gorgeous tigers and peacocks. By contrast, Shed Soy Candles had seen a gap in the scented candle market and created beautiful vegan products – right down to the glue in the packaging. Candles that are also sculptural works of art, which come with meditations, were being shown by Ukrainian mother and daughter duo Mindfully Lit, created to bring wellbeing to all. You could buy beautifully crafted wooden objects: the man behind XYLO Design is former roofer turned precision craftsman; and from the solidity of wood came the most delicate vases for a single flower, one of the many creations of Jim’s Woodcraft. Then there were the final touches for the garden. LV Bespoke was possibly the most travelled endorser of Style of Wight’s show, as he had brought his sense and sensibility goods all the way from North Norfolk and had just finished the Grand Designs show. Sense? Robust and beautiful metal plant supports. Sensibility? Golden dachshunds and quirky planters. And the verdict from Style of Wight Director Christian Warren? “It was a great day. I can’t wait to do it again.”

SAVE THE DATE! IOW Homes and Interiors Show 2024 – 12th/13th October styleofwight.co.uk For more info and to join our newsletter email office@styleofwight.co.uk OR for exhibitor enquires email hello@blackswanevent.co.uk

Health and Beauty | STYLE

WINTER WELLNESS With Ca rol i ne Hu rley Wel lbei n g P ra ctitioner at BeCa l med a nd Hea lt hwel l Solutions In these colder, darker months, many of us continue to feel challenged and stressed. Even in winter, there are easy ways to enjoy nature, helping to reduce stress and boost your mood.

n our busy lives, we don’t always take the time to appreciate nature and the environment around us – but it could help us to feel calmer and less stressed. The mental health charity Mind suggests that being in nature could improve your mood, reduce feelings of anger, and improve your confidence and self-esteem. We live on a beautiful Island, and nature is on our doorstep ready to connect with us in many ways. Wrap up warm and go for a walk Chilly mornings or dusky afternoons do not have to mean you cannot get out and about. Provided you wrap up warm, a wintery walk could be the best way to get some exercise and enjoy the changing seasons. There are so many moments of natural beauty – whether it is the changing colours of the leaves, frost on the grass, vivid winter berries, or even the very first signs of spring. Listen to the birds Even if you are unable to get outdoors, many people find it soothing to stop and listen to the birds, and in winter there’s still plenty of birdsong to hear, from robins and waxwings to chiffchaffs and tits.

Bring the outdoors indoors Use real or artificial plants to fill your home with greenery, making it your oasis in contrast to the dark days outside. Green evokes a feeling of abundance and is associated with refreshment and peace, rest and security. Green helps people feel rested and secure. Aromatherapy

and bringing your body and mind back to harmonious balance using warmed aromatherapy oils gleaned from nature. Winter is the perfect time to stop, recharge your batteries, and make the most of the time this season offers us. Embrace wellearned moments of mindfulness, reconnect with nature, indulge your senses. Give yourself the gift of wellbeing, release, and revive your inner calm.

Add to your oasis of greenery an aromatherapy candle or fragrant reeds to create the perfect sanctuary. Try ESPA’s Winter Spice Candle and experience festive fragrance to delight the senses and spirit. Let the warming aroma of Sweet Orange, Clove, Cinnamon and Ginger envelop you and your space. Or you can slip into an enchanted abyss of relaxation with the ESPA Soothing Candle This ultra-soothing blend of Sandalwood, Rose, Geranium and Frankincense releases an intensely comforting fragrance that twists and turns in the air, setting the senses aglow with its warm, rich notes. Another ultimate aromatherapy feelgood factor is enjoying a Winter Warming Massage at BeCalmed. It will get you out of the house, melting away any tension

November and December 2023

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Get Your Personalised Skincare Plan:

01983 532 275 @thebeautyspotiow Unit 2, 128 Pyle Street, Newport, Isle Of Wight, PO30 1JW

Feature | STYLE

S TO RY T E L L I N G F I L M S H OWC A S E S M O U N T B AT T E N ’ S I M PAC T. The stories of people supported by Mountbatten were the inspiration for the charity’s new film. ‘Your Mountbatten Stories’ features individuals who have benefitted from Mountbatten’s wide-ranging care and support services. The film showcases the breadth of support available to Island people, including bereavement, care at home and rehabilitation services. Islander Chris Browning, a podcaster and radio presenter, received bereavement counselling from Mountbatten after his mum, Sally, died. “Mountbatten means care,compassion, sensitivity, respect, and love,” he said. Because they really love what they do, the doctors, nurses, and volunteers. Anyone who comes to Mountbatten should be lucky that Mountbatten exists. “I was really pleased to be asked to feature in the film, as I cannot be more thankful to Mountbatten for everything they did for mum and my family.”

Mountbatten worked with NOSY creative agency to produce the film. Their previous collaboration, ‘Anyone. Anywhere. Anytime’, was shortlisted in the Smiley Charity Film Awards, the world’s biggest campaign to promote cause-based films, winning a bronze award in the People’s Choice category. Mountbatten Chief Executive, Nigel Hartley, said: “’Your Mountbatten Stories’ is an incredibly moving film and shows just how important Mountbatten is to the people we support. Our work really matters, and the film is both a thank you to our donors, fundraisers, and volunteers for enabling us to care for local people and a call for their continued support. “We rely on the generosity of our local communities to fund most of our services, and this film demonstrates the impact of their commitment to our cause - that every person living with death, dying and bereavement should have access to the best care and support, whoever they are, however they have lived their lives, and wherever they happen to be.”

Visit mountbatten.org.uk/film to watch ‘Your Mountbatten Stories’ and mountbatten.org.uk/annual-review to read the Annual Review.

November and December 2023

HEALTH SERVICES  Free NHS Prescription Delivery  Free NHS Flu Vaccines  Free Managed Repeat Service  NEW* Free NHS Blood Pressure Checks  NEW Online Or Mobile App Ordering  NEW Services Clinic (Travel, Ear Cleaning, UTI)

Services - Bespoke handmade framing for paintings, Textiles, works on paper, Photography and 3D objects up to Museum level. - Picture hanging service.

- Restoration and cleaning.

*(Eligible over 40 years)

SCAN WITH PHONE CAMERA AND GET OUR APP Get Re-Order Reminders ⁄ Order 24/7 We Keep You Updated ⁄ Chat To Our Pharmacist

Fragrance I Beauty I Luxury Bath I Mens Grooming Natural Remedies I Pharmacy 34 UNION STREET  RYDE P033 2LE TEL: 01983 562570  WWW.GIBBSANDGURNELL.COM

Chris Williams 50 High street Ryde PO33 2RE Tel: 07429 877 464 Email: info@thegentlemanframer.co.uk Web: thegentlemanframer.co.uk IF IT CAN BE FRAMED, I CAN FRAME IT!

Osborne Chiropractic

6A Cross St Shanklin

Specialist treatment for spinal, joint, muscle and nerve conditions by an experienced chiropractor.

For appointments email: info@osborne-chiro.com

or call: 01983 514 996

Health and Beauty | STYLE

Osborne Chiropractic

Shoulder Impingement Dr Luther Moss, Osborne Chiropractic Shoulder pain is a common condition. It can often be severe and debilitating, affecting the ability to work or even sleep. The shoulder has a huge range of flexibility; however this comes at the cost of stability, making it vulnerable to injury. One cause of pain is shoulder impingement. This occurs when the gap at the top of the shoulder (the subacromial space) narrows, pinching the tendons that pass through it. This typically results in pain at and around the tip of the shoulder, with sharper pain and stiffness felt when lifting the arm to the front or side, reaching above the head or putting on a jacket. The pain can be so severe that simply lifting a cup or pan becomes difficult.

Unlocking the myster y of anxiety: seeking answers beyond symptoms Dr Margarita K itova-John, The Lantern Clinic Anxiety can be an enigma, leaving many suffering in silence. Have you ever felt overwhelmed, constantly on edge, or even been labeled ‘depressed’ without a clear cause? You’re not alone. In fact, anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental health challenges globally, touching countless individuals. Instead of merely treating symptoms, it’s time to look deeper. Your answers may lie in a functional doctor. These experts delve into the core of your health to uncover the true causes of your suffering.

Direct injury to the shoulder can cause this problem, but in the majority of cases long term poor posture or poor training patterns are more at fault. When we hunch forward at work or home, or if we focus too much on building muscle in the chest and arms, then our posture becomes rounded. This moves the shoulders forward, narrowing the gap and ‘impinging’ the tendons in it.

Anxiety might be a puzzle, but we have the pieces to solve it. What makes it even more intriguing is its intricate connection to our physical health. Recent research reveals the profound link between our gut and our brain – the gut-brain axis. Could an underlying imbalance of your gut microflora be contributing to feeling anxious? Or is it oxidative stress or even mitochondrial disease at play? These are questions that deserve answers.

These injuries require a combination of hands-on treatment, to improve flexibility and alignment, in combination with prescriptive exercises over time to address any postural imbalance or muscle weakness.

Modern medicine is evolving as quickly as artificial intelligence, sadly innovation takes on average 12 years to penetrate mainstream medicine. Are you prepared to wait that long to have more options?

To help avoid shoulder injuries correct your posture when standing or sitting, balance your exercise regime to include rotator cuff and shoulder stabilising training, and do daily postural stretches to avoid rounding of the shoulders.

The truth is, you’ll never truly understand the root causes of your anxiety if you merely treat the symptoms with antidepressants. Are you prepared to rely on them indefinitely? Perhaps there are alternative paths to explore.

Nerve entrapment, rotator cuff tears, referred pain, and frozen shoulder — to name a few — are all other possible causes of shoulder pain, and so a thorough assessment and clear diagnosis are essential to getting the best outcome.

Book a call at Lantern Clinic, where functional medicine experts will dig deep to uncover the source of your suffering. It’s time to take charge of your well-being and seek answers beyond the surface.

If you’re concerned about a shoulder injury, or simply would like some advice, then please feel free to get in touch on info@osborne-chiro.com

If you are interested in learning more about our services and would like to book an appointment, kindly scan the QR code or visit our website at www.lanternclinic.com November and December 2023

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* NYDJ * LYLE & SCOTT * Christopher's YAYA *ofMARC DARCY * TED LADIES BAKER *WEAR Newport the suit suit * SCOTCH & SODA *theTIMBERLAND * LOAKES SHOEMAKERS * 21 Holyrood Street,

www.visualimpact.co.uk

MENSWEAR LADIES WEAR the suit Christopher's of Newport the suit 21 Holyrood Street, 3/4 Watchbell Lane, store store Newport, Isle Of Wight MENSWEAR Newport, Isle of Wight WEAR LADIES the suit Christopher's of Newport the suit 5AZ PO30 5XU 6/7 Watchbell Lane, Newport, 21 HolyroodPO30 Street, 3/4 Watchbell Lane Tel: 01983 821908 store store Tel: 01983 525665 Isle of Wight

Newport, Isle Of Wight PO30 5AZ Tel: 01983 821908

www.visualimpact.co.uk 6/7 Watchbell Lane, Newport, The Suit Store Isle of Wight

6/7 Watchbell Lane Newport I.O.W.

Newport, Isle of Wig PO30 5XU Tel: 01983 525665

www.visualimpact.co.uk Menswear

21 Holyrood Street Newport I.O.W. PO30 5AZ telephone 01983 821908 Ladieswear

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

www.visualimpact.co.uk

Fashion | STYLE

Statement

yle

Seasonal St

This beautiful grace & mila harper sequin dress features short flared sleeves, a round neckline and a v shaped back. A great piece for this season to sparkle and shine at any party, with subtle pink stripes running through the sequins. this dress is fully lined. £89.95 from Bou Chic in Ryde November and December 2023

STYLE | Fashion

Winter Warmers Whether it’s a bright colour or a bold pattern, a statement coat is the perfect way to add some personality to your winter wardrobe. And if you’re looking for something more practical, puffer jackets are still going strong. This year, we’re seeing a lot of oversized silhouettes and this fabulous example using animal print. Choose functional fashion accessories, including hats, scarves, and gloves, to keep you warm and cosy while looking your best (as well as providing ideal Christmas gifts). Selection of hat and scarf sets from £55, available from Ladies Visual Impact.

styleofwight.co.uk

Fashion | STYLE

Sparkle in Style Whether you’re attending a Christmas party or a New Year’s Eve bash, sparkly pieces will have you shining all night long and make you feel like the star at any event! Shimmering trousers and jackets with sequins are the perfect way to add some glam, or opt for the ultimate luxury with rich velvet pieces; both will elevate your festive wardrobe. Selection of sequin dresses from £120, available from Ladies Visual Impact.

All styles available in-store or online at www.visualimpact.co.uk November and December 2023

Showroom open Monday - Saturday 10am - 4pm Isle of Wight Necklace One of our best-selling designs is available in-store or online. The Isle of Wight necklace is beautifully crafted in 9-carat yellow gold and is typically available for same-day collection or next-day delivery.

Heart Fingerprint Wedding Rings

Diamond Bubble Earrings Sparkling diamond bubble earrings, handcrafted in 18-carat yellow gold, set with 0.25-carats of natural round brilliant-cut diamonds. Available from our showroom ready-made collection.

Custom-made wedding rings combine two fingerprints styled across both rings in the shape of a heart. Our team can help you choose the perfect pair of rings with all the help required to add your fingerprints to any precious metal.

Bowery 2-Carat Diamond Bubble Ring

Bespoke Blue and Pink Sapphire Necklace

The Bowery diamond bubble ring never fails to capture attention with a cluster of 2-carats of dazzling diamonds. This is just one design from our diamond bubble ring collection, available with natural or lab-grown diamonds. Design shown £4300.00 set in 950 Platinum.

We created a unique custom-made necklace design to combine a sparkling combination of oval blue and pink sapphires, set into a unique design made in 18-carat white gold.

Blue Diamond Twist Engagement Ring

Bespoke Moss Agate and Diamond Ring Set

We created this unique blue diamond solitaire engagement ring, set with a 0.80-carat lab-grown blue diamond, held in a simple twist setting in platinum. View the design online within our bespoke gallery with a 365-degree video of the finished ring. Handcrafted for the Serendipity Diamonds showroom.

We created a unique moss agate and diamond engagement ring with a matching fitted wishbone wedding ring in 18-carat rose gold. The ring featured a unique cabochon moss agate gemstone set amongst sparkling white brilliant-cut diamonds.

Independent family jewellers on the Isle of Wight since 2007 www.serendipitydiamonds.com/uk chat online or call 01983 567 283

STYLE | Home

A Warm Welcome with Kayleigh Trott from Studio Jute

The entrance to your home, whether grand or humble, sets the tone for the space to follow. Your hallway offers a hint at what lies beyond but can often be overlooked in favour of other rooms. As the first place we encounter when arriving, and the last place we experience when we leave, adding some thoughtful touches makes all the difference when welcoming people into your home. Create a warm welcome this festive season and beyond with these simple tips. 1. Providing a place to perch if your guests want to remove their shoes can be a helpful addition to a hallway. Likewise, have somewhere to hang coats and bags that keeps the space from feeling cluttered and means belongings are looked after and easy to reach at the end of the visit. 2. Treat your hallway like any other room in your home. Add art, rugs, pattern and colour to make what can be an overlooked transitional space a welcoming homely place to linger. Hallways are a great opportunity to be bold with your art choices; hang conversational pieces or something that makes you smile each time you walk past. 3. To create a sense of harmony the colour of your hallway should be complementary to the rooms leading from it. Often on the smaller side, hallways benefit from playful colour combinations and a warm overall enveloping scheme. 4. Layered lighting is something we always encourage. Wall lighting will cast a softer glow than overhead pendants — perfect for intimate gatherings. Create ambience and light the way to your entertaining space with a combination of candles, wall lights, and picture lights above your artwork. 5. Add some drama with scale and proportion. Even the smallest of spaces can be made to feel extra special with the right accessories. Mirrors are perfect for narrow halls, bouncing light around and adding much-needed depth. Add personality with oversized pendants, plants, and lamps, or create an impactful gallery wall with smaller mementos and family pictures. 6. At this time of year there are many beautiful natural ways to scent your home. Oranges, cloves, cinnamon, and eucalyptus are perfect for adding welcoming aromatic cheer to your environment. Studio Jute offers a consulting service that can advise on all aspects of your project, from window treatments to layouts and paint colours.

Get in touch: Kayleigh@studiojute.co.uk / studiojute.co.uk / Image credit: Design Studio Jute / Photography Holly Jolliffe

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@studio_jute

Home | STYLE

November and December 2023

BEAUTIFUL CLEAR SKIN

BOOK ONLINE OR CALL NOW

We are an independent florist in the centre of Newport with island wide delivery. We offer a wide selection of stunning fresh flowers, indoor and outdoor plants and a beautiful range of homeware, all available online or instore.

01983 241214

WINNER MOST TRUSTED SKINCARE CLINIC 2023

GET THE SKIN YOU HAVE ALWAYS WANTED www.thecourtyardcliniciw.co.uk

Flowergardeniow.co.uk Telephone: (01983) 524 061

BEFORE

AFTER

T H E C O U R T Y A R D A E S T H E T I C C L I N I C D O C T O R

H A Y L E Y

E L S M O R E

Art | STYLE

Make Your Own Christmas Garland

Flowers by Ellie

Whether it’s to adorn that mantelpiece or to weave up your bannisters, follow my step-by-step garland-making guide to create something striking, personalised, and truly special this festive season. Need a helping hand? Pop by Bembridge Flower Shop to stock up on the essentials and pick up a few handy tips while you’re there — we’re only too happy to help.

What you’ll need:

How to make it:

- A length of rope (the sturdier the better)

First things first, decide where your garland is going to go and measure the space accordingly, factoring in a few extra centimetres for wriggle room. You can be more generous for hanging mantlepiece garlands as you’ll want them to sit in an arc shape, whereas garlands for the bannisters will want to be a tad more snug so they stay where they’re meant to!

- Floristry wire - Secateurs - Foraged foliage (conifer and ivy work well) - Seasonal botanicals (mistletoe or holly) - Decorations (ribbons, cinnamon sticks, or even candy canes)

bembridgeflowershop.co.uk

Taking that measurement, cut your rope to the same size and tie a knot at each end. Now you’re ready to begin adding the festive foliage. Starting at one end, tightly twist the beginning of your floristry wire to the rope, as close to the knot as possible. Then, create small bunches of foliage and wrap the wire around each bunch in turn, binding them firmly into the rope. Don’t forget to ensure the bunches overlap to avoid any gaps! Continue adding the bunches of foliage until you reach the other end of the rope. Then snip off your wire and twist the last piece down securely. Now with your base greenery

all in place you can begin to embellish it. Personally, I love adding different shapes and tones of colour with my ornamental foliage, so I’d add a mixture of holly, ivy, and mistletoe to make sure it looks nice and varied. Before adding the finishing touches, put your garland in place — trust me, it’s a lot easier to hoist it into position without baubles dropping everywhere! If it’s sitting on top of the mantelpiece or taking pride of place on a dining table you don’t need to fix it, whereas if it’s going to hang in front of your fireplace or run up your bannisters you’ll need to tie it into place with extra string or rope. Finally, you can attach some more decorative pieces with the wire too — perhaps some aromatic cinnamon sticks, a few choice pine cones, or even a candy cane or two. Feel free to mist your garland with water from time to time to keep it fresh, but it should see you through the Christmas period, looking merry and bright, in all its glory. November and December 2023

STYLE | Home

THE GARDEN IN WINTER Ventnor Botanic Garden Curator Chris Kidd For many, the garden in winter becomes less of a conversation between people and plants in favour of a tableau to be viewed from afar. We step less into the space and view it from behind glass, or in passing en route to some other chore. We may not be able, or inclined, to garden during short days but perhaps we should consider that the use of our gardens is increased by those with free passage — the birds and other wildlife.

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Home | STYLE

TO CLEAR OR LEAVE WELL ALONE For hardier souls, engaging with the garden equipped with coats, hats and gloves, please consider habitat before clearing and tidying. The berries on so many plants may not thrill us visually, but holding back from tidying will allow time for feeding. Fallen leaves become insulation for mammal hibernation houses and leaves left on bare ground will feed foraging fungi, and in turn return their nutrients to the soil, so consider carefully before burning them all. Many herbaceous plants are best left unpruned until the depth of winter has passed, the better to protect tender crowns beneath. Take a break from the lawnmower, longer grass covers soil otherwise open to moss, and if you’re not walking on it, does an extra centimetre really matter? Keeping out of the garden can be helpful to the soil, which when damp compacts to lose its structure, remaining tough into the next year.

THE MAGIC OF A WINTER GARDEN This time of year opens a new window into the garden, the light is different in quality and quantity, colour spectrum subtleties become more vivid, white is penetrating, pink is foggy, blue otherworldly. Late or early, out-of-season flowers become intimate jewels. Frost and dew rejuvenate dead heads into a new lease of life, cold enhances the chemicals responsible for leaf colour. Skeletal trees invite the gaze beyond what can be seen in summer; an open space beneath deciduous shrubs may be crying out for winter bulbs to buy next summer. The big leaf drop can also become a big reveal of items lost in the floral complexity of summer; the lost tools, and the broken fence beckoning work to be done at some later date.

PREPARATION FOR SPRING Some gardens will, however, need the intrepid gardener to prepare for the year ahead. Winter pruning is ubiquitous with some garden plants, so do your best to avoid the job being a chore. Have plenty of spare time, and don’t be in a bad mood for the job. Use the best pruning tools you can, and have them as sharp as possible. Address the plant as a whole; the complex rules of pruning be damned if the result looks dreadful, nobody is criticising your handiwork uninvited. The naked tree shows you more easily the work that is needed, but never prune before flowering (it’s obvious really). Trees with pipped fruit tend to be best pruned in winter, once the fruit is gone, stoned fruits are for summer work. After pruning, put a little vegetable oil on blades. Keep an eye on the calendar, the days lengthen again so soon and round we go again.

November and December 2023

Business | STYLE

E X P LO R E T H E F U T U R E O F C U L I N A RY I N N OVAT I O N Linear Kitchen Designs, in partnership with Kesseler and Nolte Kitchens, is redefining the modern kitchen experience with cutting-edge self-extracting technology. This visionary concept is a seamless fusion of functionality and aesthetics, offering a sneak peek into the future of culinary innovation.

BORA S Pure

Bertazzoni Professional Series

The star of the show is the BORA S Pure cooktop extractor system. Nestled within a Nolte ultra-modern handless island, this innovation combines a sleek induction cooktop with a highly efficient integrated extractor. This revolutionary compact technology not only maximises counter space but also ensures that cooking odours and vapours are whisked away at their source. Your kitchen remains a fresh and pleasant workspace for culinary creativity.

Linear Kitchen Designs completes its vision with the Bertazzoni Professional Series, featuring the 90 cm Air Tec range cooker in a vibrant orange finish. This multifunctional kitchen marvel boasts an induction top, 103 litre oven and an integrated self-extraction unit.

BORA Classic 2.0 Another standout is the BORA Classic 2.0 modular system. Integrated within a Nolte neo-classical display, this system brings together a potent extractor and a versatile induction hob and Japanese Teppanyaki. Its user-friendly control panel simplifies the cooking experience while maintaining a streamlined appearance.

Visit the Linear Kitchen Designs showroom to witness the fusion of culinary art and innovation. With these self-extracting technologies, cooking becomes a harmonious blend of form and function, promising an exceptional kitchen experience for all.

Linear Kitchen Designs Ltd, Unit 1, 46 Dodnor lane, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 5XA, UK | Tel. 01983 522333 November and December 2023

Ultra -Luxury Mediterranean Voyages 2024

The Seabourn experience is unlike any other form of travel. It is luxurious, yet relaxed … elegant, yet casual … sumptuous, yet understated. A concept designed around an intimate boutique hotel, which happens to be at sea. In summer 2024, why not plan to explore great cities, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, quintessential riviera resorts and timeless island villages - all in ultra-luxury. Seabourn Encore - offering 300 all-veranda suites - will sail week-long eastern Mediterranean voyages from Athens (Piraeus), Istanbul and Venice. The ship’s visit to Kuşadasi will feature Seabourn’s signature complimentary “Evening at Ephesus”, a private classical concert which takes place within the spectacular UNESCO site at sunset. On select itineraries, guests may also enjoy a Marina Day with watersports when the ship is anchored off breathtaking spots such as Spetsai, Nydri and Monemvasia.

ports and hidden harbours, yet features amenities rivalling much larger ships, including sumptuously furnished living areas and restaurants, elegant settings for meals created under the guidance of multi-Michelin starred chef Thomas Keller. To extend the culinary experience, guests may shop a bustling Sicilian market with an expert Seabourn chef as their guide, enjoying an insider’s look into unique regional produce. Or they may explore the local wines of Tuscany and Provence with a local wine expert.

Seabourn Ovation will sail the breath-taking French and Italian rivieras, as well as the cities of the Iberian coast, venturing as far west as Casablanca and Tangier in Morocco. She slips into picturesque

From the luxury of all-suite accommodations to complimentary fine wines and spirits, and a no tipping policy, Seabourn exemplifies the definition of travelling well.

JUST A FEW MEDITERRANEAN HIGHLIGHTS IN 2024 7-night Greek Isles & Ephesus Seabourn Encore 19 May, 18 Aug, 20 Oct 2024 Athens (Piraeus) to Istanbul

Visits: Gythion (Sparta, Greece); Chania (Crete); Mykonos; Kusadasi (Ephesus, Turkey); Cesme

• Seabourn’s Complimentary ‘Evening at Ephesus’ • Marina day with complimentary watersports • Inclusive Air

7-night Adriatic & Greek Treasures

Seabourn Encore | 28 Apr, 28 Jul, 13 Oct 2024 Venice to Athens (Piraeus)

Visits: Vodice (Sibenik, Croatia); Kotor (Montenegro); Kerkira (Corfu); Cephalonia (Greece); Nafplion (Mycenae & Epidaurus)

• Sail into Kotor Fjord • Inclusive Air

10-night Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta Seabourn Ovation | 2 Jul, 21 Aug, 10 Sep^ 2024 Monte Carlo to Barcelona

Visits: Porto Santo Stefano (Italy); Giardini Naxos (Taormina, Sicily); Mgarr (Victoria, Malta); Valletta (overnight); Ajaccio (Corsica); St Tropez (France); Palamos (Spain).

• Overnight stay in Valletta • Inclusive Air

THE SEABOURN ALL-INCLUSIVE DIFFERENCE ● All luxuriously appointed ocean-front suites, most with

private veranda

● Intuitive, personalised service provided by staff

passionate about exceeding guests expectations

● Welcome Champagne and complimentary

in-suite bar stocked with your preferences

● Complimentary premium spirits and fine wines ● Tipping neither required, nor expected ● Your choice of complimentary gourmet dining

experiences – dine where, when and with whom you wish

^10/9/24 is 12 nights

10-night Spain & Moroccan Gems Seabourn Ovation l 1 Aug, 10 Oct 2024 Roundtrip Barcelona

Visits: Port-Vendres (France); Malaga (Granada, Spain); Gibraltar; Casablanca (Morocco, overnight); Cartagena (Spain); Valencia.

• Overnight stay in Casablanca • Inclusive Air

CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL PROFESSIONAL, CALL 0344 338 8615 OR VISIT WWW.SEABOURN.COM Terms & Conditions: Please ask for latest fares at the time of booking along with any current campaign. The Inclusive Air (IA) off er includes Economy Class Air (ECA). IA is subject to availability, valid only for guests residing in the UK and applicable to the first and second guests sharing a Suite only. In the event that promotional ECA is not available (at the sole discretion of Seabourn), or for guests not wishing to utilise the promotional air off er, a cruise credit will be applied to the booking amount. Promotional Inclusive Business Class Air (BCA) may also be available for an additional charge. IA offers include complimentary transfers between the airport and ship and in case of an airline delay or cancellation when enroute, next port protection. If promotional air flight(s) and/or cruise schedule(s) force an overnight, a complimentary hotel night is also included. Inclusive ECA off er is based on promo code JE, Inclusive BCA off er is based on promo code JB. Off er is subject to availability and may be capacity controlled and may be modified or withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Ports of call may vary according to departure date. Other restrictions may apply. Seabourn reserves the right to correct errors. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. ©2023 Seabourn

Feature | STYLE

A ticket to Ryde is a wise investment this holiday season.

DESTINATION

RYDE

by Rebecca Lawson Photography Pipi Lotta-Kulla

Quirky independent shops, a famed 19th-century pier, and Christmas spirit worth rugging up for — Ryde is certainly bursting with reasons to visit this festive season. Add to that some world-class dining and a rich Victorian heritage, and it’s no wonder so many people grab a ticket to Ryde.

ocated on the northeast tip of the island directly opposite Portsmouth Harbour, Ryde’s moniker as the ‘Gateway to the Isle of Wight’ is appropriate for obvious reasons. The first thing many visitors to Ryde will see, especially those coming from the mainland, is the pier. This half-mile-long structure originally opened in 1814 and was necessary to allow boats to dock at low tide when the sea ebbs so far from the shore. Prior to this, visitors had to be ferried from the ship via wherry across Ryde’s mud banks and brought ashore using a cart. Understandably, this posed quite a significant barrier to the town’s development as a fashionable shopping precinct, especially during damp winter days — after all, no self-respecting Victorian lady wants to risk wetting her festive silk heels in the tepid waters of the Solent. Ryde Pier is naturally a local architectural celebrity. Not only did it save many a pair of shoes, but it’s notable for both its length and age — it is the oldest and second-longest pier in the whole of Britain, shorter only than Southend. These facts become even more fascinating when you consider that Ryde Pier is one of the very few in Britain that you can drive your car along. Never fear if you don’t have wheels though; the pier also has its own train line and station.

Lift your gaze to discover lofty architectural features.

November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

styleofwight.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

November and December 2023

STYLE | Feature

The elegant display cases and glass medicine jars of Gibbs & Gurnell hark back to a bygone age.

The bustle of Ryde promenade greets visitors as they reach the end of the pier. Like much of the Island, Ryde benefited greatly in the Victorian era when the Queen and her beloved husband chose the Isle of Wight as their favourite holiday destination, in the process making it a very fashionable destination for the well-heeled aristocracy. The building boom that ensued is still apparent today in the mix of beautifully restored Regency and Victorian properties that stand regally along the main shopping streets, their delicate filigree and large bay windows making them resemble expensive wedding cakes. Adjacent to the pier end you’ll find Union Street, the central hub for shopping and leisure in Ryde. As you explore this picturesque street and admire its expansive view across the Solent to Portsmouth, you’ll find a blend of historic architecture and

modern amenities that make it a delightful destination for tourists and locals alike. The Victoriana adds an even greater dash of magic at Christmas time, when the shops are all dressed up in their joyful best, wearing merry garlands decorated in reds and golds and lit up with strings of fairy lights. If it’s a step back into the past and an extra dash of seasonal magic that you’re looking for, number 34 Union St is where you’ll find it. The front of Gibbs and Gurnell will catch visitors’ eyes, but it isn’t until you walk through the doors that you really appreciate the true magic of this traditional chemist. In December, you’ll find the shelves brimming with luxurious beauty products and imaginative gifts, while the perfumery’s elegant mahogany display cases present an array of alluring products from luxury brands like Jimmy Choo, Elizabeth Arden, and Mont Blanc. The independent pharmacy still also stocks all the necessary health services, too. They provide flu jabs, prescriptions and a range of NHS services, including diabetes care, blood pressure tests and weight management — all with a smile and the kind of personal touch you’d expect from traditional customer service. But Gibbs and Gurnell is far more than just a store. Nestled amongst the merry decorations you’ll find a fascinating mix of authentic Victorian bottles, flasks and mysterious-looking demijohns still containing potions and pills dating back to the nineteenth century. The premise has been trading since the 1870s, so it’s not

Take in the eclectic offerings in The Royal Victoria Arcade.

100

styleofwight.co.uk

The Royal Victoria Arcade’s stunning roof.

surprising that all these were found in the attic of the store. They’re even displayed alongside authentic prescription books rumoured to belong to Queen Victoria herself! Once you’ve filled your apothecary bags, you’ll move down the Union St hill where you’ll find the jewel in the crown of Ryde shopping. One of the most notable buildings within Ryde, the Royal Victoria Arcade was completed in 1836. Its Italianate frontage lends the area an elegant charm and the premises are still in beautiful condition. The Georgian building (not Victorian despite the name) is adorned with a stunning glass roof and houses a range of independent establishments just crying out to be leisurely browsed. Lined with a variety of eclectic stores and diverse shops that cater to every taste and interest, Victoria Arcade is not just a place to shop but a destination to savour. The shops are boutique in style and offer visitors something unique they don’t see on every high street. Sustainable shopping and one-of-a-kind products are to be found in stores like Handpicked Isle of Wight, which features locally crafted souvenirs and gifts that capture the essence of the Island. For fashion enthusiasts, there’s Atelier, Suzie Q, Next Door’s Attic, and Dotty’s, all of which focus on the growing trend away from fast fashion and stock distinctive pieces that you didn’t even know you needed. Sunny Days appeals to music aficionados with its collection of vintage vinyl records, while Sip and Smoke harks back to the elegant cigar shops of old which welcome you to

Feature | STYLE

Bou Chic makes gift-buying a delight.

From home styling to framing, you’ll find it in Ryde.

take your time savouring smoky flavours during private tastings. During the run-up to Christmas, you’ll even find a festive market in the arcade. It will be running during the Ryde Late Night Shopping Merry & Bright event on the evening of Friday 8th and during the day of Saturday 9th December. Not all the best shopping is on Union Street, however. If it’s Christmas gifts you’re after, move further uphill and step into Bou Chic on Melville Street. Bursting with personality, this lovely store is stocked with a broad mix of fashion, including Grace & Mila’s elegant designs, Emily & Fin’s latest autumn/winter collection, and Pretty Vacant’s vintage line. You’ll also have a chance to explore the newly introduced Sugarhill — but how will you choose from their inspired range of jumpers, featuring pink zebras or leopard print? Fashion is just the beginning at Bou Chic — the kids will also be kept happy with Jellycat’s lovely soft toys and Christmas characters, baby gifts, and other irresistibly collectible goodies. You can explore the Maileg collectible toys that ignite imaginations across all age groups and tick off that Christmas gift shopping list with Moomin hot water bottles, Orla Kiely’s homeware, or cosy herringbone pure wool throws in a kaleidoscope of colours. Set the Christmas ambience in your own home with their array of lighting, cushions, and candles perfect for any interior. If you’re looking for a truly personalised gift this Christmas, continue walking into upper Ryde where you’ll find the Gentleman

Framers, a haven for art enthusiasts and admirers of fine craftsmanship. It’s the perfect place to create those soughtafter gifts that keep on giving. This quaint shop is a testament to the art of framing, offering personalised services that elevate your cherished pieces into true works of art. With meticulous attention to detail and a profound respect for preserving memories, the Gentleman Framers provides the highest quality framing solutions. Whether you want to showcase a vintage map, a beloved family photograph, or a contemporary masterpiece, their expertise and unwavering dedication ensure that your valued pieces are presented in a manner that exudes charm. A visit to the Gentleman Framers is an opportunity to witness the delicate craft of framing in its purest form, where each frame reflects a genuine labour of love and a deep appreciation for the art of preservation.

The Gentleman Framer takes pride in his craft.

ponder at the waves breaking on the four Palmerston forts that perch around the water and try to come up with a fiscally viable use for them — there are no end of elements to Ryde beach that will captivate you. But these are activities for a summer’s day. Come back to enjoy all this in July because who wants to be on a cold windswept beach at Christmas when you could be nursing a warm festive drink topped with a marshmallow or two at the Chocolate Apothecary on the Esplanade?

Of course, Ryde isn’t just about the shopping, even at Christmas time. Pull yourself away from Union Street for a wander down the promenade and you’ll find LaserQuest (which probably isn’t authentically Victorian), as well as the Eastern Gardens, fun fair, and canoe lake. If you wander far enough, you’ll come to the expansive Appley Beach and its beguiling tower. From here, you can gaze across the Solent watching the range of yachts, ferries, dinghies, merchant ships, and naval craft glide by; peer closely to see if you can spot the yellow buoy that marks the place Henry VIII’s Mary Rose was sunk so anticlimactically; watch the Hovercraft zoom over the surf till it docks in Southsea; Refuel after a morning’s shopping.

November and December 2023

101

Sandown, PO36 8FE

Prices from £300,000

An exclusive development of luxury apartments, townhouses and roof top penthouses! UNDERFLOOR HEATING

SECURE VIDEO ENTRY SYSTEM TO

SEA FRONTAGE LOCATION

APARTMENTS

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External imagery shown is computer generated and is for illustrative purposes only. Final build, landscaping and elevations may differ.

RESERVATIONS BEING TAKEN NOW!

For further details please contact our New Homes Department on:

01983 538080 or email newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk

CT (IOW) LTD

Home | STYLE

BR A M B L E D RIV E Nito n

ramble Drive is a beautiful and picturesque new development located right on the edge of Niton village. It is unique in its design and appeal, offering new homes set amongst attractive landscaping. Upon turning into the development, a flowering meadow will be seen to the left and a feature pond to the right, with the River Yar running along the border of these which is crossed to reach the development beyond. This location truly offers that close to nature feel, countryside views and rural living we all dream about, together with the convenience of a well-equipped village right on your doorstep. With 9 well designed detached homes this development offers something for everyone. If you’re thinking of downsizing or needing more room then each home has that bespoke, stylish and practical space that make for happy living to enhance day to day life. All homes are detached and set within spacious plots with private gardens, driveway parking for two cars and impressive open plan living/kitchen spaces. The two-bedroom bungalows have separate cloakroom WC’s and fully fitted bathrooms with separate baths and showers. They also benefit from great storage along with

A-RATED Countryside Homes

*Imagery shown is computer generated, final build may differ.

generous entrance hallways to provide a real sense of luxury. Offering more space with attached garages the four-bedroom chalet style homes offer the same sensible storage and practical touches but have a heightened sense of luxury. With front doors opening into a double height entrance hall with a galleried landing above these homes really have the wow-factor. The ground floor offers a WC, utility room and separate home office. In addition to a flexible fourth bedroom which could serve as a snug or playroom. The open plan kitchen, living and dining space is over 30ft wide running the entire width of the property, offering an expansive room, ideal for entertaining. Kitchens will be finished with quartz worktops, a wine cooler, and the much-loved kitchen island. This is ideal for casual dining or just sitting with a glass of wine. All homes at Bramble Drive have been designed with energy efficiency, style, and convenience in mind. Hot water and heating are provided by air source heat pumps. The homes are heated by underfloor heating, and all have solar PV panels neatly inset into the roof. Together, these details mean all homes at Bramble Drive are A-rated for energy use, providing reassurance of their future running costs.

Niton as a location has many wonderful attributes, the village has two popular countryside pubs, a pottery workshop/ shop, a library which is run by volunteers, a recreation ground, churches, a primary school with a pre-school incorporated, a village hall, a local supermarket, a pharmacy, even a post office which also doubles up as a quirky restaurant, a garage, and a medical centre. The outskirts of the village offer some wonderful countryside and coastal walks and the beaches at Castlehaven and Reeth Bay are within walking distance. The village is steeped in history and can lead you to picturesque views of either the countryside or coast. All in all, a wonderful place to spend your days with everything you need to call home. The 9 homes at Bramble Drive are being built by Foreland Homes, a privately owned developer based on the Isle of Wight with over 22 years’ experience. With a strong focus on great design, quality materials and stylish spaces they offer premium properties aimed at enhancing living for the homeowner and creating spaces that are beneficial to family life now and in the future.

For further information, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Hose Rhodes Dickson If youHomes would Department like further information, please contact Hose Rhodes Dickson New Homes New on 01983 538080 or alternatively email newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk Department on 01983 538080 or alternatively email newhomes@hrdiw.co.uk

New Homes

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Welcome to Tilesuperstores We have one of the largest tile & bathroom showrooms on the Isle Of Wight

Open: Mon-Fri 7:30am - 5:00pm | Sat 8:30am - 2:00pm Email Us: sales@tilesuperstores.co.uk | Call Us: 01983 521824 Unit 5 Barry way Newport business park , Newport, United Kingdom

Home | STYLE

Gunley Mede – Yarmouth

EXPLORE ISLAND HOMES THIS WINTER Whether you’re looking for a cosy cottage fireside, a grand country residence, or a business opportunity, our Island estate agents can offer you plenty to choose from this season.

Agent: Spence Willard An exceptional five-bedroom detached country house located on the edge of Yarmouth offering commanding views across the River Yar and The Solent – extending to around 6.5 acres including a 2.7 acre adjoining paddock Gunley Mede is in an elevated position delivering truly impressive long-range views across much of the western half of the Isle of Wight as well as views of its own formal grounds. This substantial period house has been extended in recent years with a wonderful, large, high-quality sunroom which is a perfect for entertaining or as a large family games room. This period house has been meticulously maintained and has immaculate grounds with formal gardens to the rear and side. An extensive lawn leads down away from the house in an eastward direction and is enclosed with hedging on both sides. The grounds are well stocked with wonderful specimen plants and mature trees giving a stunning backdrop for the manicured garden. Spencewillard.co.uk

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STYLE | Home

Coastguard Cottage – East Cowes Agent: McCarthy & Booker A beautifully presented two bedroom cottage. Located in a quiet road with wide and far reaching views across the Solent from the property and garden, this home has two reception rooms, modern kitchen, the principal bedroom with ensuite cloakroom, shower room and off road parking for 2/3 cars. This end of terrace cottage is immaculate throughout and has stripped floorboards throughout the upstairs and living areas with stylish modern vinyl flooring continuing through the kitchen and shower room. Original fireplaces and hearths remain in the main bedroom and both reception rooms, showing its history and making

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characterful features. There are modern tweaks within the sitting room with a stylish glass stair panel. The kitchen, as with the rest of the house, is bright and fresh with light wood worksurfaces and cream wall and base units. There are plenty of spaces for a freestanding fridge freezer, washing machine and dishwasher. The front of the property is very low maintenance with a shingle car parking area for several vehicles, attractive tiled mosaic steps to the entrance door and a flower bed with mature palm trees within. The rear garden is wide and mainly lawned, with a paved area to relax and enjoy the ever-changing panoramic view across the water. Mccarthyandbooker.co.uk

Home | STYLE

Moor Cottage – Brighstone Agent: Hose Rhodes Dickson This quintessential, detached, Grade II listed Stone cottage nestles perfectly within its delightful, well tended gardens. The pleasantly bright and spacious accommodation combines the best features of modern day living with the charm of a bygone era and boasts a multitude of period features. Exposed beams, Inglenook fireplaces are found within both the dining room and the living room, which also benefits from a conservatory. Adjacent to the dining room is a country style kitchen fitted with a wealth of wall and floor standing cupboards which are finished with a wooden worksurface. A rear lobby with stable door benefits from a walk-in pantry and conveniently links to a sizeable bedroom with feature stone wall and an en-suite shower room. Three further charming bedrooms are accompanied by the family bathroom. To the front of the cottage is a gravel parking area and an arched gateway through to the delightful, well-established garden with a pretty timber summer house and patio area. This fabulous property offers an opportunity to enjoy a relaxed village life whilst also being within easy reach of the local beaches and miles of rambling walks through the countryside. Amongst the amenities in the village there is a Pub and Restaurant, a well-stocked shop, primary school, doctors’ surgery and Church.

New Bank End – Ventnor Agent: BCM A wonderful coastal holiday business and development site situated on the southern coast of the Island in the sought-after area of St Lawrence, enjoying uninterrupted sea views including two 3-bedroom holiday cottages, a substantial glasshouse (with positive pre-application for a residential dwelling), commercial buildings providing useful income (with a positive pre-application for two residential dwellings), campsite, woodland, grounds and lake, in all extending to 6.12 acres (2.47 ha). SITUATION New Bank End is situated in an elevated and south-facing position accessed directly off Undercliff Drive, St Lawrence. This coastal location still has the convenience of being within easy reach of mainland ferry connections. The county town of Newport is 9 miles (18 minutes) away by car. The coastal resort of Ventnor with shops, restaurants, and beach is only a 10 minute walk or 4 minutes by car. Bcm.co.uk

Hose-rhodes-dickson.co.uk

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@STUDIO _ JUTE WWW.STUDIOJUTE.CO.UK R

Offering monthly painting technique Vintage lifestyle through Find out more in-store the decades, fashion, iconic workshops. and on our Facebook page. furniture, fabrics, ceramics, DIG F ORV O. U K art and classic books. I N TAG E . C Book a painting The Colonnade, Lind Street, experience with Everything you need to create a us today! Ryde, Isle of Wight, PO33 2NE Tel. 01983 719433 gorgeous vintage look for your home. The Colonnade Ryde PO33 2NE

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. www.anneginger.co.uk

considered design for modern living

DIG FOR VINTAGE

Anne Ginger

T 01983 719433 E info@digforvintage.co.uk

tel. 01983 407730

RARE BOOKS & PRINTS 1ST & SIGNED EDITIONS TYPEWRITER SALES & REPAIR FULL PICTURE FRAMING SERVICE

67 Regent Street Shanklin PO37 7AE T: 01983 652880 E: reuben@babushkabooks.co.uk

Feature | STYLE

From Cover to Cover with Babushka Books The way we celebrate the festive season is often attributed to Charles Dickens and his book ‘A Christmas Carol’, a heartwarming tale of redemption, generosity, and the true spirit of Christmas. Written in just six frantic weeks and published on 19 December 1843, the first edition had sold out by Christmas Eve, and within 12 months a further twelve editions had been released. A literary sensation was born.

The novella serves as a powerful commentary on class divisions, poverty, and the need for compassion and change in society. Today, phrases such as ‘Bah, humbug!’ and the concept of a ‘Scrooge’ have become part of the cultural lexicon, and the timeless message instilled in ‘A Christmas Carol’ continues to resonate with readers and audiences around the world, ensuring this delightful tale will endure for generations to come.

Set in a snow-covered Victorian London, it follows the transformation of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly and cold-hearted old businessman, who only reluctantly gives his overworked and underpaid clerk, Bob Cratchit, Christmas Day off to spend with his family. On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by three ghosts, from the past, the present, and the future, who show him the error of his ways and help to turn him into a kinder, more compassionate person. In the early 1840s, Dickens was deeply concerned about the issues of poverty and social injustice. He had already written several successful novels but wanted to address these issues in a more direct and compelling way. This concern for the less fortunate stemmed from the Portsmouth-born author’s personal experiences, having been forced to work in a factory as a child, and with a father who ended up in a debtors’ prison.

1. A Christmas Carol Illustrated by Arthur Rackham £650

2. Christmas Books Published 1880 £230

Babushka Books | 67 Regent Street Shanklin | Tel.01983 652880

3. Christmas Stories 1851-58 Published 1870 £120

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Over 150 years of delivering expert legal advice At Churchers, we pride ourselves on delivering legal advice that’s free from jargon and easy to understand. We have a new office at 18 Melville Street in Ryde, where our team of experienced and knowledgeable solicitors are on hand. To speak to a member of the team, please call 01983 562 201 or visit our website www.churchers.co.uk.

Cowes

Ryde Ryde

Newport

Shanklin

Freshwater

Business | STYLE

OUTPUT WITHOUT T H E I N P U T.

By April Newton PARTNER , GL ANVILLES DAMANT

By Dale Howar th BUSINESS MENTOR AND CONSU LTANT

T H E I M P O R TA N C E OF LASTING P OW E R S O F AT TO R N E Y

T W

e all know stories of those rising from humble beginnings to achieve outstanding success and how this revolved around their uncompromising work ethic. Yet getrich-quick schemes still promise high rates of return for a small investment, in both time and money. Creating an impression to those foolishly drawn in of wealth with little to no risk and little skill, effort or time needed.

But we all know that no book was written overnight, and it takes a lot of flying time to become a certified pilot. A comedian takes years on stage to develop their material and learn how to command an audience. And never forget that most seemingly overnight successes actually took years, rather than someone simply spending a few hours on the latest technology and becoming a billionaire. The fact is all great things take time and require a lot of input. We need to understand and accept this fact if we are to develop the outcomes we want in both business and life - we have to put the effort in. Yet many still search for that elusive ‘free lunch’ born from the tradition of American saloons in the early part of the last century offering a free lunch to patrons that bought just one drink. A lunch deliberately high in salt, so that those eating it ended up buying more drinks to quench their thirst. Those successful in business will tell you that hard work pays. Working hard and spending time honing your skills is simply

the price you pay for success and ‘yes’ it will most likely take longer than you would like. Success is the result of good preparation, hard work and maybe a little luck, but as film producer and Hollywood pioneer Samuel Goldwyn said, “The harder I work, the luckier I get.” When you first start and then run a business there are times when the demands on your time and resources will be overwhelming and you will question whether all the effort you are putting in will ever pay off. But it will. There are other factors that play an equally important part. Focus and timing are two of them, where having a clear strategy and plan is essential to define what you want to achieve, how and the timeline for your ultimate success. With the right strategy and plan you control the direction of travel, what you do each day that moves you nearer your goal and how your business needs to be tailored to achieve your objectives. But even the best plan is no substitute for hard work. The late and great Joe Strummer of The Clash summed it up with what is referred to as Stummer’s Law: “No Input, No Output.” Reflective of his constant striving for the inspiration that drove his life and music. You can achieve anything if you are determined enough, have a strong work ethic and are willing to put the hours in to achieve your goals. What would be foolish is expecting outputs without the inputs, final results without basic beginnings.

Dale Howarth is a Business Mentor and Business Growth Consultant. Working with individuals and companies to make the business leaders and businesses successes of tomorrow. To find out more visit www.dalehowarth.com

here are two types of Lasting Power of Attorney – one which deals with Property and Finances, and one which deals with Health and Welfare decisions.

A Property & Finances Lasting Power of Attorney gives your Attorneys the authority to manage your bank accounts and any investments, and to buy or sell property on your behalf. It can be used as soon as it is registered if that is what you wish. This doesn’t take any power away from you, and you can continue to run your affairs so long as you wish. However, it might be useful if you were indisposed for a period of time and unable to deal with your financial affairs, for example, if you had an extended stay in hospital. A Health and Welfare Lasting Power of Attorney allows your attorneys to make decisions about where you live and what care you receive, and you can also give your attorneys the authority to give or refuse consent to life-sustaining treatment. This type of Lasting Power of Attorney can only be used once it is registered, and then only if you lose the capacity to make these decisions for yourself. You should consider who you would wish to appoint as your attorney. This could be a trusted friend or relative, or a professional. If you are appointing more than one person, you will need to decide how they should make decisions – jointly or separately? Do you wish to appoint replacement attorneys? A qualified adviser can take you through all the options and give you the best advice for your individual situation. We all hope to live out our lives being fully in control of the decisions that affect us. Making Lasting Powers of Attorney ensures that, if there is ever a time when we are unable to do this, it will be the people we trust who are looking after our welfare and financial affairs.

April is a Partner at Glanvilles Damant specialising in Wills, Powers of Attorney, Trusts and elderly client matters. Web: gdlegalservices.co.uk Tel: 01983 527878

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STYLE | Feature

FINE ART AND INSPIRATIONAL CLASSICAL MUSIC Engaging School Pupils Through Innovative Approaches Concerned over wide-ranging government educational cuts affecting school art and music budgets and an apparent lack of interest in pre-1900 art, Professor Robin McInnes OBE, an art historian and author, has sought ways to raise the profile of these subjects on the Island in an interesting and informative way. Working with teacher and film producer, Will King, and fine art conservator Emily Kelmendi, both from the Island, Robin has brought together fine art by some of Europe’s most famous painters together with emotive pieces of music of the classical genre to engage with younger school pupils. Robin and his colleagues have produced a half-hour video focusing on over twenty images, or sequences of images of paintings, all of which tell fascinating stories, accompanied by stirring or restful music by some of the world’s leading composers. Pupils are invited to watch the video and describe what they believe are the stories behind the artworks, and to research the artists and composers. Some may compose

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their own music to match one of the paintings of their choice or produce their own artwork in the style of the Impressionists or Van Gogh! The video, introduced by Emily Kelmendi, was filmed at Martin Beisly’s magnificent gallery in St James’, London, where he deals in fine Pre-Raphaelite and other Victorian paintings. Brought up on the Island, Martin was for many years Head of Victorian Art at Christie’s at both their London and New York offices. The video is being piloted this autumn term at a range of Island schools including the Island Free School, Ryde School, and five Primary Schools have also been invited to participate. A launch event and concert will be held in December where

pupils can display their art, essays, and musical compositions. The project has been supported by Martin Beisly Fine Art, Montgomery Estate Planning & Charities Aid Foundation, Style of Wight Magazine, The Lantern Clinic, and Professor McInnes. Lord Lloyd Webber, an ardent supporter of fine art, classical and contemporary music, is aware of the project and felt ‘this project is sorely needed’ and that ‘it will have a lasting impact, making a huge difference for all participating children’.

Schools who wish to learn more about the video can contact Robin at rgmcinnes@btinternet.com

Feature | STYLE

James J Tissot ‘The Ball on Shipboard’ (A scene on the Czar’s yacht at Cowes Week 1874). © Tate released under Creative Commons

Dame Laura Knight ‘Ruby Loftus screwing a breech ring’; (of a Bofuns anti-aircraft gun). 1943. The Imperial War Museum. © IWM. London.

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Style speaks

to Jamie Langton, telev ision producer Much of the short was filmed in Bonchurch. What was your impression of the village? Why do you think Dickens and so many other Victorian writers were inspired by the area? Before making this film I had been to Bonchurch, but I have to say, having now seen more of it due to filming around the area I can see why Dickens would have fallen in love with its charm, its proximity to the sea and its largely untouched surroundings. Walking through Bonchurch down to the seafront you follow a picturesque stream. When we filmed there it was a beautiful hot sunny day, so it couldn’t be any more perfect than that. This issue, we sit down with Jamie Langton, who tells us about his recent film short, Dickens Island, and what he loves about the Isle of Wight. You’ve recently directed the film short Dickens Island with Alan Cartwright from Haviland Cottage, who has done a lot of research into Charles Dickens’ connection to Bonchurch village. What inspired you to direct and produce this project? I read about the project on social media. I’m a Dickens fan so I was fascinated to discover Alan’s extensive research. I work with a lot of researchers for television programmes, but this was good, old-fashioned connecting the dots while working with those in the know to help bring all the elements together. When I saw that, I just had to get in touch to see if we could make a film about the subject. The story is about Dickens, Bonchurch, and the characters who were locals at the time. We think some of these locals inspired a couple of Dickens’ most famous characters, including Mr Dick from David Copperfield and Miss Havisham from Great Expectations. Who would have thought such a famous author would have stayed in little ole’ Bonchurch on the Isle of Wight, let alone write some of his most famous work there and find potential inspiration for two characters?

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I was fascinated to find out that Charles Dickens, an internationally famous author who travelled the world and stayed in some of the most exotic places, had stayed in Bonchurch, not once but twice! The history of Bonchurch and this Dickens connection combine to make it a really special part of the island and I have to say, probably now one of my favourites. What was your favourite part of working on Dickens Island? I love working on stories such as Dickens Island, especially where so many people are passionate and knowledgeable about their interests. It’s such a great feeling to be able to capture that and put it together in a film and then share it with people in the hope they will find it of interest and might even go to visit the place themselves one day. What are your personal favourites of Dickens’ writings and why? My absolute favourite Dickens novels are Oliver and A Christmas Carol, my favourite film version of which is Alistair Sim’s Scrooge. I also love the Muppets Christmas Carol with Michael Caine. Our children have long since flown the nest but we still all gather around when we can to watch it! When alone, however, it has to be Alistair. Have you spent much time on the Island before this? What are your favourite impressions/memories of the place? My first ever holiday to the Island was with school in 1975 and it was at Stoats Farm in Totland. I pretty much fell in love with

the place from then on and have probably stayed there at least once every year since. I also have many wonderful memories of family holidays here. Having directed many TV shows such as Blind Date and Wish You Were Here…? means I’ve travelled the world a lot, but unless I’ve had a holiday on the Island, I feel as though I haven’t had one at all! I’ve also tried to include the island as much as possible in my work, including on ITV’s Time Off with Toyah Wilcox and Birdwatch with Chris Packham. Carry On star Jack Douglas was a guest on one of our shows, and we became friends. He lived in Shanklin, so I often used to pop in to see Jack and his lovely wife Vivian whenever we were over. What future projects do you have in the pipeline? What’s next for Jamie Langton Productions? The great thing about my job is that you never know what’s around the corner. The biggest problem I find now is getting broadcasters interested in good old-fashioned stories. When we first began making Dickens Island, I thought I’d have no trouble getting a broadcaster involved to commission and broadcast the film. Unfortunately, this has not been the case. Many didn’t think the story would appeal to today’s diverse audience criteria. That’s a challenge, but it won’t stop me!

LIVING

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Furniture for every room of your house. THE ISLAND’S HOME DEPT. STORE® OPEN MON - SAT • FREE PARKING • ISLANDWIDE DELIVERY

The Old Village Shanklin Isle of Wight PO37 6NU

Telephone (01983) 865500

s Wishing All Our Customers & Friend

A VERY MERRY CHRISTMARS & PROSPEROUS NEW YEA The Old Village SHANKLIN Isle of Wight PO37 6NU

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