Enjoying superb views over surrounding countryside and stunning sunsets, this attractive contemporary property includes extensive gardens, paddocks, garaging and a new self-contained annexe within a converted barn. EPC C
PROPERTIES FOR SALE
LETTINGS
NEW HOMES & DEVELOPMENT
ISLAND BUSINESSES
MEET THE OWNERS
INTERIORS & GARDENS
FOOD, HEALTH & WELLBEING
PORTRAITS OF ISLAND LIFE
THE LONDON OFFICE
I. BONCHURCH £850,000
A charming, detached period house situated in an elevated position providing sea views from both the house and gardens.
EPC D
We value the unique opportunity the Isle of Wight offers and so are delighted to work alongside many experts to help bring sites, whether for an architecturally designed one off home or an extensive development, to reality
II. COWES £695,000
A well-presented period home with a mature garden, garage, parking and a tower providing sea views.
EPC TBC
III. COWES £565,000
An elevated waterfront apartment with wonderful views over the marina, harbour entrance and Solent beyond, with balcony and allocated parking.
EPC C
IV. FRESHWATER BAY £895,000
A fabulous three bedroom detached home tucked away in large gardens approaching an acre and backing on to Afton Nature Reserve.
EPC TBC
Guide Price £450,000
Cowes Old Town, Isle of Wight
Beautiful home set over three levels with a modern kitchen/dining area opening to outside space. A reception room, which could be utilised as a dining / sitting room, 3 double bedrooms with either a balcony or terrace and off road parking, a huge bonus, this is a rare find in Old Town Cowes. CHAIN FREE
Guide Price £550,000
Cowes, Isle of Wight
A short walk into Cowes, this immaculate 4-storey Victorian townhouse offers generous accommodation with all of the home being fully renovated just a few years ago. 4 double bedrooms, 2 reception rooms and superb kitchen/dining room opening to the large garden and driveway parking for two cars. CHAIN FREE.
Guide Price £595,000
Adgestone, Isle of Wight
‘Little Grove’ is set in an idyllic peaceful position overlooking miles of fields and woodlands, this beautifully extended home is flexible with it’s accommodation. 4/5 bedrooms with 2/3 receptions rooms, family bathroom and an ensuite shower room, modern kitchen, substantial garden and parking. CHAIN FREE.
COUNTRYSIDE LOCATION
Guide Price £275,000
Cowes, Isle of Wight
Gorgeous semi detached period cottage with two double bedrooms, two reception rooms, modern kitchen, utility area, hobby room with shower room and some period features. Within easy walking distance to Cowes town centre, great for commuters, first time purchase or holiday home/investment. Viewing is highly recommended.
Guide Price £325,000
Gatcombe, Isle of Wight
A wonderful conversion, once part of a Victorian hospital into a spacious, airy and beautifully presented apartment. Family bathroom, ensuite shower room, 2 reception rooms, modern kitchen and a private terrace. Two parking spaces and fabulous communal grounds, including an orchard with rambling paths. CHAIN FREE
Guide Price £549,950
Ventnor, Isle of Wight
Victorian property over three floors, offering a versatile and spacious living experience. With magnificent sea views, the house comprises of 6 bedrooms, 4 reception rooms and 5 bath/shower rooms. The property also features gardens, a modern decked terrace and plenty of parking.
Guide Price £775,000
Cowes Old Town, Isle of Wight
Located in the quaint old town of Cowes, Jersey Cottage is currently a successful holiday rental and has been completely modernised and refurbished throughout! Two bath/shower rooms, a large modern kitchen/ dining room, sitting room, courtyard garden and parking - a huge bonus in this area. CHAIN FREE.
Guide Price £425,000
Gurnard, Isle of Wight
Located in a prime location close to Gurnard beach and Gurnard Green this home is set over 3 levels with a long garden. A modern kitchen and separate dining room is on the ground level with a sitting room, further reception room and utility room on the lower ground floor. A quirky and well maintained home with parking!
Guide Price £995,000
Cowes, Isle of Wight
Located in Baring Road, this architectdesigned home enjoys eco-functions including solar panels and an Eddi diverter to efficiently heat hot water. Impeccably presented with 5 bedrooms, 3 bath/shower rooms, a stunning open plan kitchen/living area and gorgeous sea views from a cleverly positioned picture window. CHAIN FREE
Guide Price £565,000
Cowes, Isle of Wight
In a secluded development, located off a private road in central Cowes. It’s flexible accommodation has 2 double bedrooms, both ensuite, on the first floor and 4 reception rooms, or 2 receptions and 2 ground floor bedrooms on the lower level. A large decked terrace with mature garden that looks out over Cowes and across The Solent. Kitchen, utility and integral garage plus a large driveway.
Guide Price £895,000
Cowes, Isle of Wight
Beautiful detached house boasting a fabulous modern outdoor space with a plunge pool and stunning outdoor kitchen.
The well appointed accommodation includes 2 elegant reception rooms, a large open plan kitchen dining room, utility, 4 bedrooms and 2 shower/ bathrooms, driveway parking for three vehicles. Must be Seen.
Guide Price £250,000 East Cowes, Isle of Wight
One of a row of historical Coastguard Cottages built in 1874 with a commanding view across to the harbour entrance.
This Grade 2 listed cottage would benefit from general refurbishment and has 3 bedrooms, 2 receptions, kitchen, bathroom, garden and terrace with FABULOUS sea views.
MODERN LIVING
LOVELY SEA VIEWS
PARKING SPACE
CLOSE TO GURNARD GREEN FANTASTIC GARDEN SPACE
FANTASTIC HARBOUR VIEWS
■ A unique opportunity to purchase a boutique holiday letting business
■ 6 architecturally designed eco lodges
■ Large multi-purpose studio with full kitchen.
■ Within close proximity to mainland ferry links.
■ All set within 2.08 acres
Westridge, St Georges & Shanklin and
boarding basis. Many Island children commute to mainland schools such as Portsmouth Grammar, St Edward’s and Hordle Walhampton Prep and there are
feeder links to conveniently located public schools such as Winchester College and St Swithuns’ in Winchester, Bryanston, Canford, and the Sherborne schools in Dorset and Marlborough College in Wiltshire.
The Island is blessed with a number of boutique hotels and restaurants, including The George in Yarmouth, The Royal in Ventnor, The Hut, Colwell Bay and The Smoking Lobster, Cowes. Eilidh Silva
MIDDLE BARN FARM
■ An attractive residential holding in a rural yet accessible location.
■ Property includes farm house, two holiday cottages and a range of agricultural buildings.
■ A short driving distance to amenities.
■ In all extending to 2.09 acres.
■ An eye-catching mixed use property situated close to the coastal town of Yarmouth.
■ Hosts an array of buildings including farmhouse, cottage, commerical offices and outbuildings.
HARBORS LA KE
■ A unique and secluded holding on the outskirts of Newchurch Village.
■ Includes a well appointed farmhouse, separate 3 bed cottage and several outbuildings.
■ Accompanied by a holiday letting business.
■ Boasts a 5.44 acre paddock.
■ Several paddocks of land are included, in all extending to 5.75 acres.
■ Full planning permission for an inspired architectural six bedroom house.
■ A rare opportunity to purchase an extensive plot of heritage woodland set on the coast.
■ A private path leads directly to the seafront.
■ The plot extends across 1.21 acres.
WOOTTON THE NOOK
- Your Modern Oasis -
From £231 / night
Sleeps: 6 Bedrooms: 3
SHANKLIN NUMBER 63
- Charm meets Comfort -
From £200 / night
Sleeps: 8 Bedrooms: 4
< SCAN FOR MORE
SHANKLIN ROOSTERS
- Family Fun -
From £314 / night
Sleeps: 7 Bedrooms: 4
VENTNOR VITAMIN SEA
- Sky Meets Sea -
From £137 / night
Sleeps: 9 Bedrooms: 4
< SCAN FOR MORE
The Island’s agent with a London reach
With access to branches across London, we’ll market your property to a wider audience.
Visit our website or your local branch to find out more.
The Island’s property people
More properties available on Rightmove, OnTheMarket and
£699,950
Primrose Cottage has been lovingly tended to by the same family for four generations and is located within a tranquil location just across from the beautiful grounds of Osborne House Set well back from the road and approached via a private tree lined driveway
Crossways Road
£825,000
£1,300,000
This charming 4-bedroom, 2-reception cottage offers a perfect blend of rural tranquillity and unique amenities The property, set within approximately 11 acres and with its own 350m landing strip (approx), has been maintained and enhanced by its current engineer owner over the past 30 years
| EPC B
A Victorian Villa commissioned by queen Victoria herself in 1896 Retaining many of its original features and in years gone by was run as a successful guest house. The plot is around 0 4 acres and enjoys ample parking for several cars, four holiday lodges and a good size level garden
Crescent, Whitwell
£1,350,000
| EPC C
Completed in August 2022 this Grand Design property is a bespoke home, designed by the RIBA award-winning Architect Lincoln Miles in conjunction with the current owners and built by local builder Richard Dowers Strathwell House is discreetly tucked away in a sheltered half an acre plot
Roger Oates Morella Coral in Forest, available at Long Lane Carpets and Flooring.
Editor
Christian Warren
christian@styleofwight.co.uk
Assistant Editor
Rebecca Lawson office@styleofwight.co.uk
Sub Editor
Helen Hopper
Writers
Helena Nicklin, James Rayner, Ginnie Taylor, Roz Whistance
Design and Creative
Tim Mander, Christian Warren, Lauren Fry
Photography
Gary Wallis, Christian Warren, Julian Winslow
Sales
Natalie Wade
natalie@styleofwight.co.uk
Christian Warren christian@styleofwight.co.uk
Distribution office@styleofwight.co.uk 01983 861007
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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
Note from the Editor
As the energy of summer gently cools and is replaced with autumn’s softer warmth, we find ourselves on the brink of a season filled with transformation, reflection, and renewal. There’s a unique charm in the crispness of the air, the golden hue of the leaves, and the world’s gentle slowdown. It offers the perfect moment to pause and savour life’s simple pleasures.
In this edition, we embrace the changes that autumn brings. Our team has thoughtfully curated a selection of stories and features that capture the essence of the season, from snuggly home decor tips that make living spaces extra inviting to hearty recipes that celebrate the harvest’s flavours.
Maybe you’re looking for new ways to bring warmth into the season, in which case don’t flip past our piece on the new Wight Whisky, or our tips on foraging for autumn goodies. We explore the latest fashion trends to help you transition your wardrobe with ease and delve into wellness practices that ground us as the days grow shorter. You’ll also have the pleasure of meeting renowned Islander and Bembridge local, Lady Sally Grylls, and enjoying the fragile and unexpected artwork of Charles Inge.
Autumn weddings are also on every bride-to-be’s mind at this time of year, so we’ve put together a guide to help you start on your big plans for next year’s nuptials, including where to host your event, what to wear and we’ve even got an innovative new take on wedding jewellery.
Autumn is a time for introspection - a moment to reset and refocus as the year draws to a close. That’s why we’ve packed our cosy autumn edition full of articles, inspiration and information sure to offer something to spark the imagination. So, as we wrap ourselves in scarves and sip on warm drinks, let this edition be your guide to fully experiencing the richness of the season.
46-47 High Street Cowes Isle of Wight RYDE call: 01983 567192 email: bookingheroniow@outlook .com 2 Castle Street Ryde Isle of Wight @heron_iow
Style Spectrum: Lito’s Leaf Art
Island Stories: DJ Derek Sandy
Sgraffito: With Lauren Fry, Arts Educator
Nature and Art : The perfect combination at VBG
Learning Graffiti : With Independent Arts
22 Lady Sally Grylls : The heart of Bembridge
Meet the Maker: Delicate creations by Charles Inge
Golden Brides: The magic of an autumn wedding
DESTINATION Bembridge: Great coffee, community vibes and even a windmill! 120 The Yachting Life: With Tim Blackman 124 Island Heritage: When West Africans sailed into Cowes
FOOD
40 Meet the Chef: Dan Maskell and Shalfleet’s New Inn 47 Beetroot: With Will Steward, Living Larder 49 Whisky: Finally on the Wight!
53 Autumn Bites: Food for the season
58 Stripped Brasserie: Delicious Mediterranean
62 Harvest Joys: Pick your own 64 Sweet & Seasonal: Whip up an autumn treat
HOME AND GARDEN
90 Flower Foraging: Wild autumn in a vase 93 À La Modh: Designing your space
102 Acorn Interiors: From little things, big things grow
112 Property Profiles: Stunning Island properties
STYLE SCOOP
The nights are drawing in and the air has that crisp coolness that nips at your nose, but now is not the time to batten down the hatches and retreat indoors! There is still loads going on all over the Island, so make sure you check out these fabulous autumn events.
Ventnor Botanic Garden’s Artist in Residence Exhibition – A Celebration
12 – 26 October, Ventnor
This exhibition is being held to celebrate ten years of a marvellously creative partnership between Ventnor Botanic Garden and their Resident Artists programme. As part of the residency, each artist donates a piece of work to the collection, and these are now being shown in the Echium Room. Five artists – Carol Ann Eades, David Firmstone, Charles Inge, Justine Randall and Guy Eades – will be displaying artworks that celebrate this unique garden and its involvement with Isle of Wight artists. Entrance to the exhibition is free. Normal visitor charges apply to the garden.
botanic.co.uk
Gin Festival
28 September
Quay Arts, Newport
The Gin Festival is set to mark its eighth year with a vibrant celebration of the best in artisan gin and craft spirits. Attendees can enjoy an array of small-batch gins from local and national distillers along with live music, and delicious food options. The event will also include a charity raffle supporting The Wight Brainy Bunch, making it not just a fun gathering for gin enthusiasts but also a meaningful community event.
quayarts.org/event/ginfestival-24
Via Vitae: Quarr Abbey – An Artistic Response
12 – 24 September
Quarr Abbey, Quay Arts, Re:Box
This September, The Ryde Art Collective (TRAC) is presenting a unique, site-specific exhibition at Quarr Abbey and other venues. The Via Vitae project showcases TRAC artists’ response to the increasingly rare monastic way of life, or via vitae, found at the abbey. Initially set for October 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic, the exhibition has evolved over the past four years with contributions from new TRAC members, resulting in a deeply insightful and carefully crafted exhibition. facebook.com/TheRydeArtCollective
Cider & Cheese Festival
7 – 8 September
Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Havenstreet
An eagerly anticipated event celebrating the best of local produce, the Cider and Cheese Festival is set to take place in early September 2024. The festival offers visitors the chance to sample an impressive variety of artisanal ciders and cheeses from local producers and beyond. In addition to tastings, the event features live music, workshops, and family-friendly activities, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. This annual gathering not only delights food and drink enthusiasts but also highlights the island’s rich agricultural heritage and thriving culinary scene.
iwsteamrailway.co.uk
IOW Walking Festival
5 – 13 October, Island
The perfect way for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the Island’s stunning landscapes, this annual event features a diverse range of guided walks suitable for all ages and abilities, including scenic coastal paths, historic trails, and nature reserves. With its friendly atmosphere and breathtaking views, the festival promises an unforgettable experience for walkers and nature lovers alike.
isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk
For your calendar:
IOW Literary Festival
3 – 6 October
Northwood House, Cowes
This vibrant event will feature a stellar lineup of renowned authors, poets, and speakers, including Clare Balding and historian Tracy Borman. The event will offer a diverse array of talks, workshops, and book signings. Attendees can immerse themselves in discussions on contemporary fiction, historical narratives, and the art of storytelling, all set against the charming backdrop of Northwood House. Local authors Anna Britton, Angela Buckley, Katie Daysh, and Sarah Lawton will also be speaking about their new publications.
isleofwightliteraryfestival.com
IOW Jazz Weekend
19 – 22 September, Newport
The Isle of Wight’s annual jazz festival, now in its twelfth year, brings the very best of the UK jazz scene to the Island for five days of top-class music at venues in and around Newport. The event is popular with jazz fans and visitors from the mainland, many of whom have commented on the friendly and informal nature of the event. Organised and run by volunteers on a not-for-profit basis, in previous years the event has hosted Stacey Kent, the BBC Big Band, Liane Carroll, Ian Shaw, and a host of top musicians, alongside the best of the Island’s own vibrant jazz scene.
iwjw.co.uk
Isle of Wight Dog Festival Ramble of Remembrance Dash in the Dark Bridal Fair Wightrider Ukulele Fest
Royal IOW County Showground, Northwood Starts at Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, Sandown
Royal IOW County Showground, Northwood
Lakeside Park Hotel, Wootton
Classic Bus & Coach Museum, Ryde Quay Arts, Newport
STYLE PICKS
Bring Nature In
As the crisp autumn weather brings us more indoors, it is vital that we enhance our wellbeing by adding a touch of nature to our living spaces. This is easy to do with a lovely glass or terracotta vase – fill them full of foraged florals and sprays of berries for the perfect seasonal display.
GLEAMING GLASS
Capture and reflect the warm, rich colours of the season by using coloured glass vases for your displays, like these beautiful versions from The Old Smithy. The transparency allows the colour of stems to shine through, while the play of light on the glass surface adds a subtle, elegant glow, mirroring the soft autumn sunlight. Try various colours or even clear for different effects.
theoldsmithy.com
CERAMIC SIMPLICITY
The embodiment of serene elegance, the gentle tones of these ceramic jugs and vases perfectly complement autumn blooms. Soft greys, gentle taupes, and muted greens provide a calming contrast to the vibrant reds, oranges, and browns of autumn foliage. Place them in a cosy corner to display seasonal flowers like dried hydrangeas or cotton branches. Find them at Bayliss and Booth.
baylissandbooth.co.uk
ORNATE ORIENTAL
Slim-necked ornate vases, like this one in Ventnor’s Burfield’s Antiques, add an effortless contrast to bold autumn blooms like deep-hued chrysanthemums, vibrant dahlias or a single stem of deep pink hydrangeas. The ornate craftsmanship craftsmanship and classic charm will bring a sense of artistic beauty and add a touch of history to your display.
burfieldsantiquesandart.co.uk
VASE VERSATILITY
Textured finishes, such as hand-etched patterns or glazed surfaces with a subtle sheen, are popular this season. Non-traditional shapes make standout pieces that serve as both functional vases and decorative standalone pieces. Vessels that are versatile for use with candles or flowers, like these simple grey vases from Bayliss and Booth, are a great option.
baylissandbooth.co.uk
FLORALS
Vases painted with bright blooms infuse any space with a vibrant burst of colour and energy, transforming even the dreariest autumn days into a celebration. Use them to hold fresh flowers or as a standalone piece. You can grab these ones, adorned with lively floral designs, from The Old Smithy this season.
theoldsmithy.com
DEEP DIVE
Tregear Pottery’s signature ocean designs adorn all manner of beautiful pieces that fill their Niton store. This lovely vase is no different – perfect for holding smaller muted blooms, candles or even potpourri to bring delicious autumn scents indoors. Try sandalwood, pumpkin spice or even a touch of apple cinnamon.
tregearpottery.co.uk
IT’S ALL GREEN
Venturing into Yarmouth Gallery, you’ll discover this very special viridian vase. Not just an ornament, this is a stunning piece of art, embodying both elegance and craftsmanship. Its glossy emerald surface shimmers under the light, and the vase’s shape is both organic and refined making it a captivating centerpiece in any space.
yarmouthgallery.com
The Heart of Bembridge
Words: Rebecca Lawson
Images: Gary Wallis
Despite her well-known family, Sally Grylls’ community spirit and commitment to charity work have made her a local personality in her own right, and Bembridge village just wouldn’t feel the same without glimpses of her whizzing around on her bright red scooter.
Fiercely intelligent, empathetic and ever so slightly eccentric, Lady Sally Grylls is one of those amazing women who seems to have been able to fit a million lifetimes into her 82 years, and she isn’t resting up yet. When it comes to the things she is passionate about, Sally still has the zest of a 30-year-old and the drive of someone at the start of their career.
Mother to two incredibly successful children and wife of MP Michael Grylls before his untimely death, Sally seems to have built a picture-perfect family life. Though she is the last of her family to live in the village, her strong community spirit has ensured Sally become an integral part of the fabric of Bembridge and a popular face around the village.
Floppy sunhats and quirky oversized shirts are her staple outfit. They are practical enough to allow her to help Ted, the gardener, tend her lovely flowers and look after the spotted pig, affectionately known as the Empress of Bembridge, who lives at the bottom of the garden.
I walk up the paved path to Sally’s front door and she welcomes me into her bustling and busy home. I find a warm loungeroom with cosy sofas and colourful tapestry cushions. Yellow curtains brighten up the space and family photos adorn the walls. There are piles of ideas and inspiration around the room and the cup of coffee she serves me comes with sugar and cream in a dainty porcelain cup. There’s also lots of biscuits. Oh, and Babybel cheese.
Sally in her beautiful garden, which is looked after by Ted.
My first question is how did this Irish-born, London-educated young lady end up on the Isle of Wight?
“It was the sea and sailing that brought my late husband Michael and our family to the Isle of Wight – all of us adore messing about in boats and swimming in the sea.”
Back in the 70s, a Daring class yacht called Division Belle, which was moored in Cowes, was time-shared by several Members of Parliament including Sally’s husband. The beautiful vessel enticed Sally and her young family to the Island whenever they could get away from the big city.
“Bembridge offered a wide attraction for our children, so we eventually bought a cottage
there from our great friends - I’ve lived here ever since.” That makes over 50 years that Sally has lived in Bembridge. She describes it “...as a marvellous place, beautiful with many fascinating historic places to visit, so many things to do and interesting families to get to know. I love the tremendous community life here.”
With all these wonderful elements to the village, what is Sally’s favourite part? “The beach walks and spiritual experiences when either the sun or moon rise over Forelands Beach, or when the sun sets behind Bembridge Harbour are an artist’s or photographer’s dream. It is the harbour and the houseboats that I love about the area.
“I also like to swim in the sea at high tide from the RNLI ramp where there are no rocks or stones for me to stumble over. I get great pleasure from watching the children netting prawns for their supper at low tide. I also like chatting to the locals and usually bump in to someone I know on my daily visit to our wonderful Welcome Stores and Mountbatten Charity Shop.”
Besides Bembridge, Sally’s great passion these days is the work she does with Dementia UK Admiral Nurses. The role she has played has been instrumental in appointing and training mental health nurses on the Island to support those in communities affected by this terrible affliction.
The lounge is warm and welcoming.
Sally’s involvement with the charity began with a touch of serendipity. As she was making her way home from a party several years ago, she hit a pot hole, came off her scooter and broke her leg. This led to a stint in the fracture ward; “I first recognized the urgent need for community dementia nurse support while witnessing the challenges faced by many elderly patients undergoing surgery for fractures in the Luccombe Ward of St. Mary’s Hospital. It was heartbreaking to see so many of these individuals without family or friends by their side to explain what was happening or to offer reassurance.
“One Sunday, while listening to an appeal on BBC Radio 4 by the actor Jim Broadbent on behalf of Dementia UK Admiral Nurses, I
became aware of the vital role these nurses play. Until then, I had never heard of an Admiral Nurse. As it happened, the CEO of Dementia UK at the time lived on the Isle of Wight – this made it easy for us to meet and discuss how I could contribute to their cause.
“The following year, High Sheriff Ron Holland chose Dementia UK Admiral Nurses as his charity of the year, which significantly raised awareness on the Isle of Wight. These community Admiral Nurses are a lifeline to families coping with dementia in their own homes.”
In partnership with the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary in Sandown, Sally is working with Lawrence Bates on a “ramble of
remembrance” taking place on Sunday 29 September in aid of the Dementia UK Admiral Nurses Isle of Wight. “Most of us know someone who is facing memory loss. This is why supporting this charity is so meaningful.”
Sally also has time for other charity work. She says, “With the world in turmoil, and everyone’s futures so uncertain, I am hoping I might help in some way to introduce a wider coverage of the listener-funded Premier Christian Radio station.”
Oh, and Sally has no plans to give up her scooter - “I would like to think it’s a great alternative for getting around Bembridge to my rather long vintage Volvo,” she exclaims with a laugh.
Admiral Nurses
Admiral Nurses are specialist dementia nurses who work in partnership with Dementia UK to provide expert practical, clinical, and emotional support to families affected by dementia. They offer personal advice and strategies to help manage complex needs, improve quality of life, and navigate the often-challenging health and social care systems.
By combining compassionate support with extensive knowledge of dementia care, Admiral Nurses empower families to better understand the condition and develop effective coping mechanisms throughout all stages of the dementia journey. Their holistic approach ensures that both individuals living with dementia and their carers receive the dedicated assistance they need to maintain wellbeing and independence for as long as possible.
The first Dementia UK Admiral Nurse on the Isle of Wight was appointed in 2016 and hosted by the Earl of Mountbatten Hospice. Currently there are four DUK Admiral Nurses and two ancillary nurses being hosted by the NHS Care Trust charity at St. Mary’s Hospital.
Dementiauk.org
Helpline: 0800 8886678
Local Charity, National Name Age UK Isle of Wight
Age UK Isle of Wight, a local independent charity with a well-known national name, has been dedicated to supporting older individuals on the Island for the past fifty years. The organisation’s mission focuses on embracing the process of aging and empowering individuals to live well in later life on their own terms. By promoting independence, choice, respect, and inclusion, Age UK Isle of Wight strives to create a community where older people are fully included, valued, and heard.
Whilst Age UK Isle of Wight are a brand partner of Age UK, the charity is responsible for its own governance and income. However, they benefit from the national insights of Age UK; sharing best practice, lobbying for policy change together, and creating meaningful change for older person’s support in the UK.
They also benefit from quality-assurance through the Age UK Charity Quality Standard which provides assurance that they operate at the highest standards of governance, safeguarding and service delivery, ensuring the wellbeing and safety of older people, their staff, and volunteers.
The charity’s commitment to keeping all funds raised within the Island demonstrates its deep-rooted dedication to the local community. By ensuring that every penny donated to them stays on the Island, the charity funds their services essential to the well-being of our residents, but also fosters a sense of unity and solidarity within our own backyard. This financial integrity and local focus highlight the 50-year bond between the organisation and the community it serves.
The services offered by the organisation are tailored to address the specific needs of older individuals, including initiatives like the Good Neighbour Scheme, the Hospital Project, Dementia Navigation, and the Just About You Home Help service.
For the charity to continue delivering support, it relies on fundraising. You can help by:
· Texting AGE5 to 70711 to donate £5
Giving cash, cheque or online donation, which are always welcome.
Learn more at www.ageuk.org.uk/isleofwight
Age UK IOW in Numbers
Good Neighbour Scheme is funded
SGRAFFITO
With Lauren Fry, Arts Educator | Studiowren.co.uk
One of the many wonders of Art is it’s ability to evolve and transform over time, here we take the ancient Italian art of Sgraffito and mix it up with modern materials and magical techniques to create the illusion of precious pottery.
Traditionally used to decorate the walls of palaces and highly prized ceramics with intricate designs, Sgraffito, meaning ‘to scratch’ was created by adding layers of contasting coloured glaze or plaster and then scratching away areas of the top coat to reveal the colour beneath.
Using only oil pastels and paint you can recreate this stunning technique just like the Italian masters.
To create a Sgraffito vase to hold beautiful flowers of fresh foliage:
CREATE A VASE FORM
Cut two matching curvy vase shapes from white card that are bigger than your plastic bottle
CREATE A BASE LAYER OF OIL PASTELS
You could use a range of vibrant colours or tones of one colour to create areas of light and shade
COVER WITH A LAYER OF WHITE PAINT
Using emulsion paint will ensure a matt surface that has the appearance of pottery
SCRATCH YOUR DESIGN INTO THE PAINT
Scratch your design into the dry paint to reveal the colour below
You will need:
Empty plastic bottle / White card / Coloured oil pastels / White emulsion paint / Paint brush Toothpick or wooden skewer
Meet the Maker Charles Inge
Rolling green hills, a beautifully crafted sandstone home, and an airy barn studio form the idyllic setting Charles Inge has chosen to create his paintings. In this serene environment, he transforms the disorder of life into whimsical artworks that help us bring it all into focus.
Words: Rebecca Lawson | Images: Julian Winslow
Charles Inge is capturing chaos, herding it into fragile bell jars and hanging it from delicate mobiles.
His paintings often start from mess – spatulas full of pigment, scrapers full of paint, knives and forks, drips and splatters. When his canvas (and studio) has been covered in a cacophony of colour, he then starts concentrating, honing his attention down, down, and down even further to the interesting details that arise from the mayhem. Elegant shapes emerge, made up of surprising colour combinations – sweet candy pink, hot oranges and deep emerald greens sit together as if they were meant to be. These intricacies are then framed and presented to the viewer, peaceful and soft, though still full of movement. Like I said, it’s chaos captured, contained, and soothed until it becomes a calm focus of energy, the opposite of where it started.
One of the most notable themes that runs through Charles’ paintings is his bell jars. Several series have been set under these domes, all with enchanting names like ‘Sugar Candy Mountain’ and ‘Night Jar’. He began painting them in lockdown as a way to make sense of the world and the constraints that were being placed on society. But Charles is quick to point out that, to him, the bell jars are a way to frame pent-up energy and ideas; not to pin it down, but to showcase it. “A lot of people think they feel quite repressive,” he says, “but for me, it’s about limitations. We’ve all got our limitations, so how much life can you fit within those limitations? It’s about capturing spirit and energy. If that’s all we’ve got, we should make it as beautiful as we can.”
It’s not just energy and chaos that Charles is capturing. Angels are there too, under the domed glass. “I asked myself what a modern angel would look like, and this is what came out.” He is referring to the
cloud-like arcs that fill his Angels series, where the focus is more on flashes of colour and curled movement than form, with a touch of the butterfly about them.
A second series, ‘In the Balance’, is formed from paintings of impossibly balanced
constructions. Gossamer and frail, they could be children’s mobiles, wildflower stems topped with electric colour, or even the movements in a dance. In fact, all the paintings in this series are named after a ballet step. Despite this, Charles himself seems unsure of what the paintings represent and is happy to let the viewer interpret them in their own way. “It’s almost like a game,” he says. “I start at the top and just follow the feeling trying to get the most fragile forms I can. My dad used to make lovely mobiles with me when I was little – I loved them, so there is something a little childlike in the paintings.”
Bell jars, mobiles, wildflowers – all these sublime creations are brought to life in Charles’ light-filled studio, nestled in the back corner of his expansive property. The embodiment of the ideal artist’s retreat, how did Charles find his way to this perfect house on the Isle of Wight? Advertising.
“I had always meant to paint, and when I graduated from university, I was offered a place at the Royal College of Art. But I couldn’t afford to go, so instead I started working in advertising. I worked as an Art Director and later as a Creative Director, which I did for 30
years. But when you get to director roles, it is mostly about people management. You essentially sit and watch other people do the fun stuff – but I’m too creative for that. So, on my 50th birthday, I quit and went back to painting.”
His current creations don’t feel like advertising, however. There is not even an echo of consumerism or branding. Softly spoken and thoughtful, most of Charles’ gentle pastel paintings reflect his demeanour, and it can be hard to imagine him in a high-paced city job. But not all his artwork shows sweetness and light. One of the most poignant of all the bell jar pieces hangs in the stairwell of his studio. It is dedicated to the war in Ukraine – the now familiar blues and yellows of the Ukrainian flag clashing under the glass with harsh oranges framed in black. It is only softened by the traditional pattern adorning the base of the jar.
So how did Charles find the transition from city exec to rural artist? “There’s a lot of great artists on the Island – it’s a very vibrant place. I knew when we moved here that I would have to find my own style, but I didn’t rush. I stopped paying attention to it and everything just fell into place. I knew that if I just kept painting, it would come.”
You can see Charles’ creations at Ventnor Botanic Gardens this October. See page 36 for dates and deets. charles-inge.com
The Sun Never Sets on Sugar Candy Mountain
Peace Comes Dropping Slow, from the Angels series
Dedicated to Ukraine
From the Glitch series
Isle of Wight Artists Celebrate at Ventnor Botanic Garden
Five well-known Isle of Wight artists have got together to stage an exhibition of their latest works and celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Artist-in-Residence programme at Ventnor Botanic Garden (VBG) in October.
David Firmstone MBE, Carol Ann Eades, Charles Inge, Justine Randall and Guy Eades will be displaying new artworks and inviting the public to Ventnor Botanic Garden from 12 – 26 October.
The artist in residence programme is run in the VBG Temperate House Studio. VBG aims to educate around the issues arising from climate change and global warming of the planet. It has developed the
sustainable ‘Ventnor Method’ of garden design. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve the whole Island is working to promote a sustainable future between its communities and nature. At VBG the artist-in-residence programme builds on these objectives in sharing and demonstrating these values with the visiting public.
The five artists will be showing new original work which shows how, in visual images and pictures, these ideas can be powerfully and effectively communicated. The exhibition is set in the beauty of VBG amongst the rare and endangered plants the botanical team has nurtured and grown.
The artists warmly invite you to join them at VBG to celebrate the Island’s unique and very special Botanic Garden and to share their new work.
Entrance to the Echium Room Exhibition is free, as is visiting Carol Ann Eades (VBG Resident Artist for October) in the Temperate House Studio.
Normal entrance charges apply to visit the Garden itself. Parking is free with purchases over £10 in the café or shop or with Garden admission. botanic.co.uk
Carol Ann Eades
Justine Randall
Guy Eades
Charles Inge
David Firmstone
STYLE SPECTRUM
Lito
Leaf-cutting art is a delicate and intricate form of creative expression that involves transforming simple leaves into detailed works of art. This practice requires immense precision and patience, as artists meticulously carve patterns, images, and designs into the fragile surface of leaves.
Using scalpels and fine blades, they can achieve a remarkable level of detail, rendering anything from intricate lace-like patterns to lifelike portraits.
One of the world’s leading leaf-cutting artists, Lito, was born in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. Entirely self-taught, Lito did not initially envisage a career as an artist, and instead started his working life in a food service company. Unsurprisingly with such creative talent, he never thrived in this corporate environment. “I was constantly being scolded every day and wondered why I couldn’t do my job well,” he says. “Whenever I focused on one thing, I seemed to lose sight of my surroundings. I would apply my entire attention to one task, and I found multi-tasking impossible. Obviously, this made working in the corporate world very difficult for me.”
An eventual ADHD diagnosis explained his unique way of working, but it didn’t help Lito thrive in his job. In fact, it was seen as weakness, so Lito decided to find a career in which he could turn this unique skill into a strength.
Creative by nature, Lito looked to fine art for a new career and began experimenting with various materials. Inspired by a Spanish leaf-cutting artist he found on the Internet, Lito eventually tried his hand at leaf cutting and it was through this niche and unexpected medium that he found his calling. Entirely self-taught, Lito now has over half a million followers on social media, holds exhibitions throughout Japan, has published numerous books of his work, and has even opened the world’s first leaf art museum in Fukushima.
Leaf-cutting art not only highlights the artist’s skill but also celebrates the natural beauty and fragility of the leaves themselves. The beauty of the resulting pieces lies in the fact that they are ephemeral, evoking a deep appreciation for both the intricacy of the craft and the organic beauty of the materials used.
@lito_leafart
Each one of Lito’s creations is almost impossibly intricate. Featuring jack o’lanterns, bats and mice, this piece is a celebration of all things Halloween.
Peacocks, owls, dolphins and raccoons – wildlife is the inspiration for many of Lito’s pieces.
Washing our hands should always be a priority – even for raccoons!
Lito is inspired by the 19th-century Japanese artist Hokusai’s famous woodblock print, The Great Wave off Kanagawa.
Youngsters learn the creative art of in Newport
GRAFFITI
Island charity Independent Arts is supporting young people from across the Island through a range of creative activities marketed as Arts Lab. This includes weekly sessions exploring creative writing, music and film making, sculpture and, more recently, graffiti art.
The group regularly visits exhibitions to get inspiration and the sessions are led by some of the Island’s best-known artists. Recently inspired by Alicia French, whose exhibition was held at Quay Arts, the group set to work on their own dazzling art works, which have been displayed through the summer.
Independent Arts delivers some of its work as an after-school programme for teenagers who want to explore a range of arts mediums combined with learning how creative pursuits can help improve mental wellbeing. Arts Lab challenges young people to discover new skills and interests which might lead to improved wellbeing and self-esteem through volunteering, exhibiting, sharing and teaching.
Arts Lab has been funded this year by generous grants from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation and SNG Housing, making the sessions free to young people aged 10-18 years. The sessions are led by professional artists supported by charity staff, many of them are also practicing artists.
During the Easter and Summer school holidays, the charity has also been offering
four-hour creative sessions which are free for students eligible for free school meals. These have included nature walks, cyanotype printing and line drawing, with a healthy hot lunch provided, too. These are funded through Isle of Wight Council, by the Department of Education. Sandown Carnival kindly provided some additional materials budget, so the team has also designed a carnival theme during the summer months, collaborating with some of the charity’s older participants – making a super intergenerational project.
Other successful collaborations that bridge the generational divide include weekly Make & Create sessions at Independent Arts Creative Hub on Tuesday afternoons after school, and chess craft on Saturday lunchtimes. This is incredibly popular for experienced players and those who want to learn and practice in a safe and supported, non-competitive environment.
From September, Independent Arts will also continue weekly arts education sessions aimed at the growing home-educated community. These need to be booked on a first-come, first-served basis and are expected to be oversubscribed. Contact Independent Arts by phone or email to make an enquiry.
The team at Independent Arts curates gallery exhibitions from their sessions, which are really popular, as well as helping to give voice to participants who can feel marginalised. Art has an amazing capacity to level the playing field, boosting mental health and self-confidence. This is a major part of the charity’s mission and it’s hugely appreciated by all the families who take part.
Entry to see arts exhibitions at Independent Arts Creative Hub is free, and you can visit any day from 10am to 4.30pm. Pop along to the Creative Hub at 48/49 High Street, Newport.
Donations, whatever you can spare, help the charity do more to support some of the most vulnerable residents of all ages, through arts-based activities.
Independentarts.org.uk/donate
Dan Maskell Meet
Words: Ginnie Taylor
Images: Christian Warren
After a brief hiatus, Chef Dan Maskell is back in the kitchen at The New Inn, bringing old school, classical cheffing to the island.
Nestled in Shalfleet and brimming with character, The New Inn dates from 1743 and was once a smuggler’s haven. With its flagstone floor, low ceilings and magnificent fireplace, it’s truly a historic country pub. Now it’s under new management with a familiar face at the helm: Chef Dan Maskell.
The pub and restaurant reopened in July and it’s already proved popular with locals, thirsty sailors and walkers needing respite from the trails and cliffs nearby. However,
we managed to secure time in Dan’s busy schedule to find out more about this recent endeavour.
Since Dan’s Kitchen (his restaurant in St Helen’s), Dan has spent time working as Head Chef at Albert Cottage, and more recently tried his hand at scaffolding –another pursuit requiring stamina. Now, he’s back in the kitchen, doing what he does best: creating unpretentious, delicious dishes.
“I missed the kitchen” Dan tells us, recapping his journey over the past few years. “I like
food, I like the challenge. I’ve enjoyed the change but this feels right. Scaffolding is more physically challenging, but cheffing is mentally demanding. I was working outdoors and now I’m back in a kitchen and I love being confined. I’m making good, nourishing food for our locals and for visitors from all over now, that’s the focus.”
So where did Dan’s passion for food start? “I used to bake with my Nan on Sundays,” he tells us. “I started labouring at fifteen and then I got a job at The Folly Inn. I went to college because my cousins and
Freshly caught seafood features on the menu (including recipes such as Open Fish Pie
Locally sourced fish, with Isle of Wight Tomatoes
friends were going and I chose catering. The lecturers there installed passion. It was regimented. My tutors Sean Rayner and Stuart Dyer were big influences, as a seventeen-year-old lad I looked up to them. I trained at The Royal Hotel with Alan Staley - it was classical, old school cheffing.”
What’s different now? “Six years ago, chefs worked all day. Covid has made people realise they enjoy a different way of life. Ten o’clock is an early finish now, it used to be midnight. Sometimes I think it’s changed in a sad way, that people don’t want to graft anymore. A lot of new chefs coming through use water bath cooking. It guarantees the meat comes out the same, but anyone can do it. If I said, cook me a steak medium rare, there’s an art to that. Searing the meat, smelling, caramelising, feeling it, the timing of it, basting it, resting it. There’s also a great art in making a sauce from scratch, starting with the stock (the heart of the kitchen). It’s a beautiful thing. There are steps of passing it,
caramelising bones and vegetables, adding red wine and reducing it, knowing when it’s ready by smell, consistency and taste. I’m an old school, classically trained chef. Call me old fashioned but there’s nothing wrong with meat, veg and sauce. No foams, no chemicals, no ninety-two hour slow poached duck eggs, or tweezers required to plate micro vegetables. Just good, honest food cooked with love and passion.”
The New Inn is a quintessentially British pub, with a menu designed around ‘pub grub’. The dishes on offer sound simple, but they’re crafted with care and innovation. There’s a discord between the menu and the flair shown when the dishes come out.
The Prawn and Lobster Cocktail with pickled vegetables is a treat for the senses, while the trifle balances tangy sorbet, fresh fruit and cream. The elegant presentation is a far cry from the typical trifle.
Dan is working with local suppliers for food and drink - We’ve Got Crabs and JB supply
crab, lobster, fresh and smoked fish, and Isle of Wight Tomatoes feature heavily on the menu. The Mermaid collection sits proudly on the back bar and local ales are on tap.
Freshly cooked seafood is available however you like it – from traditional beer batter fish and chips, to Catch of the Day, straight off the boat. Ribeye, sirloin and flat iron are on offer for the meat lovers, while salads, burgers and bangers (hot dogs, but think luxury) mean all tastes are catered for.
So how have the first few weeks been for Dan? “I feel like a fish back in water, back in the kitchen doing something I enjoy again. It’s a beautiful pub with character and we want to put it back on the map as a foodie destination. We’ve had lots of walk ins which is no bad thing. Maybe I’m an old school dinosaur but I’m going back to my roots and sticking with my classical training. This place is perfect for that. It’s an old building - maybe we’re meant to be together’.
thenewinnshalfleet.co.uk
A modern twist on a classic trifle - vibrant strawberries, tangy sorbet and retro sprinkles
Everybody can remember days gone by when we were asked to contribute to the ‘Harvest Festival’. In most cases, this involved a lot of rummaging around at the back of your mum’s kitchen cupboard for a tin of something.
There was in fact a huge significance to this annual event, which regrettably was often lost on many of us. Traditionally, harvest was a matter of life and death, hunger or food for the cold and dark winter months ahead. Not just for the farmer, but for the entire community.
Harvesting throughout the summer season was dependent on good weather and an abundant and healthy crop. Harvest was the culmination of the farming year and when it was done, the community would come together to celebrate after the hard work and the toil of gathering in the crops.
HARVEST AT BRIDDLESFORD HARVEST AT BRIDDLESFORD
Words: Paul Griffin of Briddlesford Farm
In truth, nothing much has changed, and harvest remains just as crucial to our prosperity, although globalisation and foreign trade have enabled us to become less dependent on local markets.
Unfortunately, more of us have become disconnected from the food we consume and from the environment in which our food is produced or grown.
The drive for cheaper food in a competitive global market has necessitated improved efficiency and productivity. Bigger machinery has enabled a single person to achieve huge amounts of output compared to a generation ago, but the effect of this has also meant that less of us are employed in agriculture.
An acre of land was originally defined when all work was either carried out manually or by horses. One acre was the area that one man could mow in one day using a scythe. These
days, we would expect a person to mow about five acres per hour with the right kind of machinery.
On the Island, we have more sunshine hours than anywhere else in the UK, and our rural economy still thrives despite the pressures of globalisation. We can thank our community for its appreciation of our farmers and the delicious fresh food that they continue to produce. The community is what keeps our farms alive and enables the farmers to produce some of the best produce in the world.
Let us celebrate harvest again the way we did before and let us enjoy the food as it should be enjoyed – preferably in date!
BEETROOT
With Will Steward, Living Larder
Ingredients:
500g pack ready-made shortcrust pastry (preferably all butter) plus flour to dust
250g Feta, crumbled
3 tbsp caramelised onion chutney
1 bunch beetroot – with tops – roots scrubbed and tops washed
Method:
Beetroot was one of the first things we grew when starting out over 10 years ago… It was going through a revival then, and it is still continuing now. Beetroot’s earthy, deep flavour makes it so distinctive, and its versatility goes way beyond the boiled beets that some will remember smelling at the greengrocers as a child. We use beetroot raw with orange juice as a grated salad or pulped as the basis of a vegetarian burger, but by far our favourite way to use beetroot at the moment is in Aimee’s amazing beetroot ‘galette’.
1 tbsp of butter
1 large free-range egg to glaze, beaten
Salt and freshly ground
black pepper
Extra virgin olive oil, to finish
Preheat the oven to 200°C/Fan 180°C/Gas 6.
Separate your beetroot roots from the tops and leaves. Peel your beetroot and dice, pop these into a saucepan over a medium heat with a knob of butter and a splash of water, put on a lid and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. After 10 minutes, tip out onto a plate, season and leave to cool. Wipe out the saucepan.
Slice the stalks and leaves and pop them into the pan, with the lid on over a medium heat leave to steam for 5 minutes. Again, leave to cool.
Lay a large piece of baking paper on your work surface and dust with a little flour. Place the pastry on the paper and roll it out to a large circle. Spread the onion chutney over the pastry base, leaving a 3cm rim, and then spoon on the wilted leaves and stalks and then the diced beetroot.
Fold the pastry margin up over the edge of the filling, pressing each fold firmly until all the edges are folded inwards; this is a very rustic tart so don’t worry about being too neat. Brush the top of the folded pastry edges liberally with the egg.
Slide a flat baking tray under the baking paper and galette. Place the galette on the top shelf of your oven and cook for 35–40 minutes or until the pastry is a deep golden brown.
Remove the galette from the oven and leave it to sit for a few minutes – sprinkle over the crumbled feta, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the surface and cut the galette into thick wedges. Serve with a leafy salad on the side.
A FRESH LOOK AT WHISKY ON THE WIGHT
in the
an
an
Deep
heart of the Island surrounded by fields and ancient woodlands, there’s
unlikely hub for
exciting new generation of authentic, island-made booze. Our new drinks guru Helena Nicklin drops in on the Island’s first dedicated whisky distillery: Wight Whisky
Words: Helena Nicklin | Images: Julian Winslow
Walking around Wight Whisky’s residence at New Farm in Brading, there’s a real sense of energy and excitement about the future of food and drink on the Isle of Wight – and for good reason. Alongside Wight Whisky, this idyllic rural location is the new home of Wight Knuckle Brewery, Nunwell Home Farmers, and, as I write, the excellent pop-up restaurant ‘Braai’, brought to life this summer by Alex Kimber and the Heron restaurant team. It’s here that I meet Lucy Gregg, co-founder of Wight Whisky, and discover a refreshing new take on the famous spirit style. As a drinks professional new to the Island myself, I feel my eyes light up.
Lucy and her husband James Gregg were both raised on the Island but moved away to pursue careers on the mainland, which, in Lucy’s case, includes over seventeen years working in marketing for the beauty industry making waves at L’Oreal, Philip Kingsley, and Elemis as well as Island-founded, now global brand, Liz Earle. With family back on the Island and having been exhausted by Covid, a trip back to Bembridge, where they watched their young son Harry playing in the rockpools, was all the push they needed to come home and build something of their own.
“You either try to keep a career going on the mainland or you make something for yourself here,” says Lucy. Looking at the huge success of Mermaid and the gin industry on the Island, it was clear that whisky offered an intriguing gap in the market. “We thought we could help make the Island a true distilling destination,” she says.
Speaking to Lucy, it’s very clear that, despite the fact that she’s the one working full-time on the distillery business, with her husband James currently bringing home the bacon in his other job and helping where he can, Wight Whisky is very much a ‘we’ project rather than an ‘I’ one. “We’re working with several Island businesses to craft our whisky,” Lucy explains. They work with Isle of Wight Grain, who provide their barley, Goddards Brewery, who do the first fermentation and wash, and use Wight Crystal Water to cut back the spirits once it’s distilled. The project will head for ‘B-Corp’ status at the earliest opportunity, too –another great example of what sustainable distilling looks like on the Island.
Indeed, Wight Whisky is here to show what the first English, Island spirit can do, showcasing the unique ‘terroir’ for barley
from across the Isle of Wight – what the warmer microclimate brings, the sea air, the water, and the topography. wightwhisky.com
TWISTING UP TRADITION
The Signature Malt blend in its sleek, modern bottle is the distillery’s inaugural release while they wait for their ThreeYear Single Malt to come of age in 2027. A blended whisky cut to 40% ABV, it showcases the gentle, mellow style the distillery is clearly going to be famous for. Think soft, vanilla toffee with candied peel, dried fruit notes, and a gentle waft of smoke. This is fantastic, all-rounder whisky that will appeal to newbies and aficionados alike.
“The quote of the week when we launched was, ‘It’s actually really nice!’” Lucy laughs. I know what she means. There’s a myth that Single Malt is the best whisky, meant to be tasted neat by pontificating old men in red trousers. Not so with this. Wight Whisky showcases a modern twist on a classic tipple, smooth as it is and light enough to sip neat should you wish, with subtle yet complex notes of pear tart, preserved apricots, and baked peach. In long drinks
and cocktails however, it proves to be a fantastically versatile spirit, even for those who wouldn’t normally opt for whisky, offering a complex, smoother alternative to a crisp, aromatic Gin or earthy Tequila. There will also be some limited-edition Single Malts making an appearance while the three-year develops, so it’s well worth keeping an eye out for those.
All in all, it’s a strong start for Wight Whisky, with bottles appearing in delis, bars, and restaurants across the Island and the south coast. The launch of their Island Single Malt will be a big event but it’s not the only style in their future. “There’s so much to play with in this arena,” says Lucy, teasing me with suggestions of limited-edition cask finishes, whole cask sales, and even the possibility of a Bourbon-style spirit made from corn. Whatever this fabulous, female-fronted business does in this space, from what I’ve seen, I’m excited. And so should you be.
BAKED TO PERFECTION AT SHELL’S
There can be few things in life as quintessentially British as the afternoon tea. Mile-high scones, finger sandwiches, homemade cakes, flaky pastries and even a bottle of bubbly if you like – it’s all here at Shell’s Cafe in Ventnor.
Served next to huge bay windows, on tiered cake stands, with a cup of tea or an Island Roasted coffee, it’s the perfect place to watch Ventnor life buzz by as you relax. After all, afternoon tea is not just about the food and drink, but also about the ritual of slowing down, savouring each bite, and enjoying the company of others in a leisurely and elegant atmosphere.
Shell’s is a new addition to the thriving Ventnor culinary scene, opening only just this year – and thank goodness it has! Most items on the menu are made on-site by the loving hands of Shelly, who wakes up at 3 a.m inspired by new and creative recipes to serve. Cranberry, brie and bacon quiche, a hummingbird cake so fresh and silky you won’t be able to leave a mouthful,
gluten-free scones taller than St Boniface Downs – you’ll find them all elegantly served in Ventnor’s iconic tea house on the High Street at the bottom of Tulse Hill. Shelly also makes a mean sausage roll, rivalling even James Martin’s attested favourite in Bembridge.
As I peruse the menu, I scrape my plate clean of chocolate cake – making sure not to miss a crumb – and plan when I shall book in for afternoon tea. Or maybe some quiche, or a sausage roll – just not a fry up!
Autumn Bites - Dishes for the cooler season
Autumn brings a bounty of rich, comforting flavours to the table, from hearty stews to berry desserts and smoky risottos. Read on to discover how the Island’s best chefs are celebrating the warmth and cosiness of the season.
The Boathouse, Seaview
Liver and bacon with creamy potato
Celebrated for its rich, comforting flavours, this succulent liver dish is expertly cooked and paired with crispy bacon that adds depth to every bite. The dish is elevated with a velvety onion gravy and a side of smooth mashed potatoes, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. It’s no wonder this dish is Michelin recognised.
Michaelangelo, Ryde
Beetroot and mushroom risotto with provola (Italian smoked cheese) and autumnal berries cooked in port wine and presented with a parmesan basket
A vibrant medley of rich colours and deep, earthy aromas, this creamy dish is lifted by the warmth of mushrooms contrasting with the sweet tang of autumnal berries. A golden parmesan basket offers a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the risotto’s creamy, tender grains. The scent of smoked cheese and port wine linger as you dive in.
The Wellington, Ventnor
Emmental, Gruyere and Comte cheese with garlic, served with bread and cornichons
This trio of cheeses melts into a velvety mixture with a rich blend of nutty, buttery, and slightly sweet notes. Dip your crusty piece of bread into the warm, gooey mixture, enjoying the hint of garlic that adds a subtle, savoury depth, perfectly balancing the cheese’s richness. The tangy crunch of cornichons offers a refreshing contrast.
New Inn, Shalfleet
Fruit trifle with strawberry sorbet
A vibrant dessert with layers of juicy berries, velvety custard, and soft sponge cake soaked in fruit juices, this trifle adds a touch of summer to these cooler days. Topped with a refreshing scoop of strawberry sorbet, it offers a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and creamy flavours. Each spoonful is a refreshing, indulgent treat.
The Albion, Freshwater Catch of the day
Enjoy fish prepared your way—battered, panfried, or grilled—accompanied by your choice of triple-cooked chips or a fresh salad. Served with tangy tartare sauce, crushed peas, and a charred lemon for added zest. Perfect for those who appreciate a balance of flavours and textures in every bite.
The Seaview Hotel, Seaview
Weekday Night Specials –Pie and seasonal vegetables
A pie has to be the ultimate autumn meal –warm, nutritious and filling. Pair it with some delicious vegetables to make sure you’re getting your vitamins, and you’re good to go. The Seaview Hotel does the perfect version and it’s on the Weekday Night Specials Menu –the perfect way to fuel up after a waterside wander.
CHAMPAGNE+FROMAGE AT THE WELLINGTON
Champagne+Fromage opened its doors in Covent Garden in 2011and since then it’s been an institution. We source all our products exclusively from small independent producers in France to deliver a magical paired experience!
OUR WAY OF THINKING
Champagne + Fromage is more than just a restaurant; it’s a journey through the heart of France’s culinary traditions. Our concept is simple yet sophisticated, offering an exquisite pairing of Champagne and artisanal cheeses. It’s a place where friends and family enjoy the finest delicacies in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
We want to change the perception that Champagne is for celebration only. Champagne is a wine, and as such, can be enjoyed anytime, by itself or with a meal. It’s the perfect pairing with cheese, much more than red or white wine.
| 2
Sunday Lunch at The Wellington!
Indulge in the epitome of a lazy Sunday afternoon at The Wellington Hotel’s Sunday Kitchen, where we invite you to savour the delights of our renowned Sunday Lunch.
On Sundays, we believe in embracing the leisurely moments - whether it’s relishing a lie-in, enjoying a cooked breakfast, tending to weekend chores, or, of course, treating yourself to a hearty roast for lunch. After all, what better way to unwind than with a comforting and delicious meal?
Join us at The Wellington for a Sunday lunch experience that transcends the ordinary – where every dish tells a story of quality, tradition, and a deep-rooted connection to the local community.
STRIPPED: VIBRANT MEDITERRANEAN FLAVOURS
Words: Ginnie Taylor
Images: Christian Warren
Stepping into Stripped Brasserie, in a building known to Ventnor locals as ‘the old bank’, I find myself transported to a unique setting –think part homely Mediterranean restaurant, part trendy Shoreditch luxury. Situated in a building with history (the old bank vault remains in situ downstairs), Stripped reopened earlier this year with bright new flavours and charming owners.
I’m visiting in the evening and, as we approach, we’re greeted by a warm glow and mouthwatering aromas. We’re warmly welcomed by Stefan, while his wife, Chef Ramona, is conjuring magic in the open kitchen. It feels like being welcomed into their home.
The atmosphere is convivial and welcoming; a bench runs along one side of the restaurant, reminiscent of classic Paris brasseries, where chatter with your neighbours is all part of the experience. The interior has undergone a makeover – while stripped-back elements remain, brickwork now contrasts with smart tiling, luscious plants and highlights of gold.
“It’s a dream come true” to have opened the restaurant, Ramona tells me. The duo’s genuine love for hosting and excellent food comes through in all they do; Stripped is full of character, attention to detail and chattering customers – the buzz is palpable.
Originally from Romania, the cuisine-loving couple have lived on the Island for the past seven years with their two sons – the eldest is at college, while their youngest has just turned two. Over time, Ramona has gained notoriety as a talented chef, developing recipes at The Crab Shed in Steephill Cove, then working her way up to Kitchen Manager at The Folly Inn and Correo Lounge, before she and Stefan embarked upon this new venture.
We’re seated in a great spot – with a view of Ramona’s kitchen, so we can watch the magic happen. The menu is reassuringly small, a fusion of Greek, Cypriot and Romanian dishes, featuring freshly caught seafood and seasonal produce from local suppliers.
We opt for a selection of meze, chorizo and gambas starters, paired with a Romanian Pinot Noir. Chatting to Stefan, I find he is a wine connoisseur, having spent many years working on luxury cruise ships and more recently Front of House at The Royal Hotel, Ventnor. His experience is evident in the impressive wine list. Stefan makes recommendations on pairings to go with their dishes, while we ponder on our main courses.
Our starters arrive, beautifully presented, served with chunky grilled bread to soak up flavour-infused oils. The gambas and chorizo are cooked and seasoned to perfection, and incredibly tasty. We’ve dithered over the mains, torn between the Greek pizza and seafood linguine on the specials board, but in the end I opt for the kleftiko, Ramona’s signature dish. I’m delighted with my choice – the lamb is truly melt-in-your-mouth tender. This is a dish that takes hours to make and here it’s made with heart. Slow-roasted, wholesome, deliciously comforting.
As we enjoy our meal, locals and tourists are filtering in. Friends sit at the bar, overlooking the kitchen, and chat with Ramona and her sous-chef while they cook. Stefan and his team are attentive to all their guests –laughter and chatter fills the space.
Ramona and Stefan are bringing something special to Ventnor with their brasserie –exceptional Mediterranean-fusion cuisine, in a comfortable, relaxed setting. By the end of our evening, we’re sharing our Pinot Noir with the diners next to us and laughing together as if we’ve been friends forever.
stripped-brasserie.co.uk
Ramona and some of her delicious dishes.
AQUiTANiA
AT THE SEAViEW HOTEL
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
The High Street, Seaview, Isle of Wight, England, PO34 5EX E-mail: reception@seaviewhotel.co.uk
Fruity, sweet & sour
INGREDIENTS
50ml Mermaid Pink Gin
25ml Lemon Juice
10ml Sugar Syrup
10ml Crème de Mure
GARNISH
A lemon slice and blackberry
METHOD
Shake the first three ingredients with ice and strain into a glass filled with crushed ice. Top with more crushed ice and drizzle over the Crème De Mure. Garnish with a blackberry and lemon slice
isleofwightdistillery.com
evoke autumn more than the smell of roasted chestnuts. These spiky-shelled treasures drop from trees in October and November, ready to be gathered, peeled, and roasted over an open fire. Hazelnuts, too, are a classic autumn find, often hidden beneath a layer of fallen leaves. They make a delightful snack and can be used in baking or made into a rich, nutty butter.
Mushrooms: On the Island and further afield, autumn is synonymous with wild mushrooms. The woods come alive with fungi of all shapes and sizes popping up through the dewy moss. Please note: mushroom foraging requires careful identification – some varieties can be toxic. But it’s an immensely rewarding experience when done with care. Always check with a professional before gathering your own.
Rosehips: Often overlooked, rosehips are the scarlet fruit of wild roses. Packed with vitamin C, they can be turned into fragrant syrups, jams, and even teas that are both delicious and nourishing. Harvesting rosehips is best done after the first frost, which softens their tough skins and brings out their sweet-tart flavour.
Crab Apples: These tiny, tart fruits are too sour to eat raw, but they are perfect for making crab apple jelly. Add herbs to vary the flavour and use as delicious accompaniments for the table over the winter months. These jars are a welcome addition to a Sunday roast, cold meats and make for a delicious sandwich! Their high pectin content also means they set beautifully, creating a glossy preserve that is a staple in any autumn larder. The jelly is wonderful paired with cheese or spread on toast.
Pine Cones: Collect for decoration or dry and use as an alternative to kindling.
Foraging
The beauty of foraging is that it extends beyond the basket of ingredients you bring home. It’s about the entire experience –feeling the crunch of leaves underfoot, inhaling the distant scent of woodsmoke, and enjoying the quiet solitude of a misty morning walk. And, once you return home, making your foraged finds into delicious recipes to fill your larder shelves.
Simmering rosehips with sugar for a tangy syrup to drizzle over pancakes, or slowroasting chestnuts while curled up by the fire. Homemade jams and jellies and fresh stuffing for the autumn roast.
For those who love to make, autumn foraging can also inspire seasonal crafts.
Sweet & Seasonal
Garden Fall Plum Cake
This gorgeous autumnal plum cake makes the most of garden fall plums. The ripe fruit can be swapped for seasonal apples, damsons or pears for an alternative taste of autumns harvest.
Ingredients:
8oz butter
8oz muscovado sugar
4 free range eggs
8oz sr flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1tsp cinnamon
10-12 ripe plums, stone removed.
4 drops of vanilla extract
3 tablespoons of clear honey or maple syrup
Method:
Bake at 180’c/fan160/gas 4
Whisk together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, adding a little flour if the mixture starts to spilt.
Add the vanilla extract and cinnamon and gently fold in the flour.
Pour into a greased and lined baking tin and level.
Cut the plums in half and arrange lightly on the top of the cake being carefully not to push the plums down.
Bake for 45 minutes to an hour or when golden and firm to touch. Baking time will vary depending on the size of the fruit.
Chocolate and Beetroot Cake
Ingredients:
250g dark chocolate (60-70% cocoa solids)
250g cooked and peeled beetroot
3 medium free-range eggs
250g dark muscovado sugar
3 tablespoons honey
4 drops of vanilla extract
130g self-raising flour
¼ teaspoon salt
25g cocoa powder
30ml of subtle-tasting oil (sunflower, avocado or vegetable)
400g of blackberries to decorate (1 tablespoon of caster sugar)
Chocolate icing:
150g melted dark chocolate
t2 tablespoons of strong black coffee
4 drops of vanilla extract
3 tablespoons of clear honey or maple syrup
Method:
Grease and line a 20cm cake tin (loose bottom is perfect). Pre-heat the oven to 170°C/150°C fan/gas mark 3.
Break 250g of chocolate and place in a heatproof bowl over simmering water until melted (make sure the bottom of the bowl does not come into contact with the simmering water as the chocolate may scald and become grainy). Remove from the heat and leave to cool.
Put the cold cooked beetroot into a blender or food processor and blitz.
Using an electric mixer or whisk combine the eggs, honey, sugar, and vanilla extract until pale and fluffy.
Stir the cooled the melted chocolate, beetroot, coffee, and oil.
Gently fold in the flour, cocoa, and salt until thoroughly combined.
Pour the mixture into the prepared cake tin and bake for approximately 1 hour or until set.
Place on a baking rack to cool.
For the chocolate frosting, place the chocolate, coffee, vanilla extract, and honey into a heatproof bowl over simmering water until it all melts together and becomes glossy.
Leave to cool and pour over the cold cake encouraging it to the edge with the back of a spoon.
Gently heat the blackberries for a few minutes with a tablespoon of caster sugar until the liquid turns to syrup.
Cool the blackberries and decorate.
Apple Herb and Flower Jellies
Ingredients:
1.5kg garden apples
Granulated sugar
100ml white wine vinegar
Bunch of rosemary, sage, mint, or thyme (about 10 x 6” stems)
This gorgeous autumnal plum cake makes the most of garden fall plums. The ripe fruit can be swapped for seasonal apples, damsons or pears for an alternative taste of autumns harvest.
Method:
Check over the apples and herbs for unsuspecting bugs and remove any leaves and stalks. Roughly chop the apples leaving the skin, core, and pips, the natural source of pectin which will help set the jelly.
Put the chopped apples and herbs into a preserving pan or heavy-based saucepan. Add water until the water line reaches just below the apples.
Bring to the boil and then reduce the heat and gently simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the fruit is soft.
Place a sterilised jelly bag or muslin over a heatproof bowl and pour in the contents of the pan.
Suspend the jelly bag or tied muslin securely and leave suspended above the bowl or pan overnight (for a minimum of 4 hours) to allow the apple juice to drip into the bowl. This is where you need a little patience. Do not be tempted to squeeze the bag to speed up the process as it will encourage cloudiness.
After this process, measure the apple liquid into a saucepan and add 450g of granulated sugar for every 600ml of liquid and 100ml of white wine vinegar.
Return to the pan and bring to the boil. Boil rapidly for 12-14 minutes or, if you are using a preserving thermometer, until the temperature reaches about 105-106°C.
As the liquid is boiling you will notice a bubbling grey residue on the surface; using a slotted spoon skim from the top until it stops forming. You will see a lovely clear liquid underneath.
Heat your oven to 160°C/gas mark 3.
Wash and dry your glass jars and place in the oven for 15 minutes to sterilise, then leave to cool.
When your jars have cooled, pour the apple jelly liquid carefully into the jars.
After about an hour, when the fruit jelly has cooled slightly, add a couple of herb sprigs to the jars (if you add the herbs too soon, they will shrivel and will go off colour).
Seal the jars and store.
Enjoy with your roast dinner, cold meats, cheese or simply as an addition to sandwiches.
YOUR NEXT BRIDAL FEATURE
Published in January February 2025
of beautiful unspoilt countryside on the outskirts of Newport and offers a backdrop to your special day like no other. With the ability to create weddings that suit all tastes from a grand summer wedding in The Marquee to a very intimate wedding in The Pavilion.
• Up to 300 guests
• Weddings, Functions /Meetings
• Free Parking
• Catering provided by The Seaview Hotel
Blackwater Road, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 3BE
Tel: 01983 824570
Email: info@newclose.org
The Style of Wight
Always brimming with meticulously sourced area-specific content ensuring that bride and grooms to be are kept well informed with curated choices of the best in local services - this is the essential annual guide to be seen in.
To have your business profiled in the first instance please contact email christian@styleofwight.co.uk
Or call 01983 861007 / 07766445299
THE MAGIC OF AN AUTUMN WEDDING Golden Moments
There is something especially magical about an autumn wedding. Nature’s palette of rusted bronze, vibrant red and ochre is the perfect backdrop, so bring the season into your special day by choosing rich jewelled tones like emerald green, golden orange or deep berry reds.
As a season of transformation, the months of September through to November are the time when the world begins to settle in for winter rest. This brings with it some great benefits for your big day. The summer heat has faded, but the biting cold of winter has yet to set in, leaving behind crisp, refreshing air. Guests can enjoy the celebration without the discomfort of sweltering heat or freezing temperatures. This temperate climate also allows for more creative wardrobe choices, from elegant long-sleeved gowns to tweed suits, or perhaps you’re feeling inspired by 2025’s trend towards high neck Victorian gowns.
It’s time to put plans in motion for autumn weddings in 2025, so turn the page to see our mood board of venues, jewellers and (of course) dress makers to get you started on organising your magical autumn nuptials.
Grooms: Visual Impact
When it’s time for the lads to get dapper, Visual Impact’s suit store, Christopher’s of Newport, is where you need to be. Snuggled down Watchbell Lane, here you’ll find the complete Saville Row experience where free-of-charge consultations will help the groom and his men find their perfect suits.
Head of Menswear, Stephen Buckley, is there to give on-trend advice were needed; “Looking to what grooms will be wearing in 2025, it seems soft pastels and earth tones will continue to be popular. Bolder patterns will make way for subtle tonal checks providing a more sophisticated look. However, my tip for 2025 is the indomitable tuxedo - from traditional black tie to velvet jewel tones, 2025 will see the dinner jacket dominate the market.”
Simply book an appointment in store, on their website or over the phone to secure your private fitting experience.
visualimpact.co.uk
Brides: 1840 by Wed & Prosper
If it’s a relaxed yet elegant bridal shopping experience you’re after, you’ll find it nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Northwood House at Cowes. 1840 by Wed & Prosper offers brides-to-be a sophisticated venue where they’ll find a personalised and intimate shopping experience. Upon entering their brand-new accessible premises at The Stables, you can breathe a sigh of relief knowing owner Carrie and her team of dedicated staff will be there to guide you through the experience and ensure you find the perfect dress for your wedding day.
The light-filled space is warm and welcoming with pops of tangerine and rails of white silk, satin and lace skimming the golden parquetry floor. The boutique is a haven where brides can explore a curated collection of gowns, from timeless classics to modern silhouettes, all selected with a keen eye for detail and quality. Carrie brings her passion for bridal fashion and her commitment to exceptional customer service to the boutique alongside her team, ensuring each bride has the special experience they deserve.
Beyond its beautiful gowns, 1840 by Wed & Prosper also offers a range of bridal accessories, from delicate veils to statement jewellery, and even Mint and Wight bridal sweaters for those relaxed moments. The boutique’s team is dedicated to making every visit welcoming and calm, offering expert advice and support to help brides feel confident and radiant on their big day.
Not only will they ensure your dress shopping goes smoothly, but the new boutique is within a stone’s throw of its sister business, Wed & Prosper, which provides wedding planning services and, over the last seven years, has established a strong presence on the island.
1840bridal.co.uk
Brides: Gems Bridalwear
A premier destination for bridal fashion on the Island, Gems Bridalwear is known for its elegant collection and personalised service. Since its founding, they have remained committed to offering a stunning selection of bridal gowns, catering to a wide range of styles and preferences. The boutique collaborates with top-tier bridal designers, ensuring each gown is crafted with high-quality materials and impeccable attention to detail.
What distinguishes Gems Bridalwear is its dedication to providing a personalised shopping experience. From the initial consultation to the final fitting, an in-house seamstress is available to discuss customisations and alterations ensuring brides feel confident and beautiful in their chosen gown. Private appointments allow undivided attention, making the experience relaxed and intimate.
Beyond wedding gowns, Gems Bridalwear offers a variety of accessories, including veils, tiaras, shoes, and jewellery, to complete the bridal look. Additionally, the boutique provides dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls, and mothers of the bride, making it a one-stop shop for all wedding fashion needs.
If you’d like to get more of a scope for what Gems can offer, visit their highly-anticipated bridal fair - see Style Scoops on page 20 for details. The fair will feature an exclusive preview of new collections from renowned designers, offering brides a first look at stunning gowns tailored for the upcoming wedding season. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet with bridal consultants, explore a curated selection of accessories, and gain inspiration for their big day. With personalised styling sessions and exclusive discounts available, the Lakeside Park Hotel 2024 Bridal Fair promises to be an unforgettable event, helping brides turn their wedding dreams into reality.
gemsbridalwear.co.uk
Jewellery and gifts: Thomas P Cochran
If you’re seeking a truly unique and personal touch for your wedding, why not make your own rings as a couple at Tom’s Jewellery Workshop, part of the renowned Thomas P Cochran studio?
When you book a wedding course at Tom’s Jewellery Workshop, the entire experience is reserved exclusively for you and your partner. You will spend the day under the expert guidance of Tom or one of his staff making your very own wedding bands or promise rings. A photographer will also be on hand to capture every moment, ensuring it becomes an integral part of your wedding experience. To add a final special touch,
In addition to rings, you will also discover a range of beautiful jewellery options for bridesmaids and groomsmen in their Arreton Barns shop. From matching bangles, earrings, and necklaces that coordinate with the bride’s attire, to beaded bracelets featuring semi-precious stones or pearls that match your wedding month, there is something for everyone. The groom and his men are not forgotten, either. Consider the selection of cufflinks, whale tail bracelets or D-shackle bracelets, which all make thoughtful and stylish gifts.
Tom’s Jewellery Workshop is not just about making a piece of jewellery. It is about creating unforgettable experiences, helping you craft pieces that are as unique as your love story.
thomaspcochran.com
Where: Newclose Cricket Club
An autumn wedding at Newclose Cricket Club will be something to remember. Surrounded by the vibrant hues of turning leaves and serene countryside, the venue provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and classic elegance.
Picture it - your guests gather on the well-manicured grounds, while the crisp autumn air adds a refreshing touch to the festivities. The warm, golden light of the setting sun casts a romantic glow over the entire scene, making it a truly magical moment. When it’s time to eat, the Pavilion provides a cosy space for your party of up to 80 guests, where they will be served a delicious menu that you have curated with the venue’s dedicated wedding planner, but if you are planning an earlier wedding, the Marquee is also available and seats up to 300 from April to September.
It’s the wedding team at Newclose Cricket Club that will ensure your day is truly bespoke. They guide clients through each step ensuring that every element, from décor to menu, is carefully planned and executed. Their focus on providing thoughtful and attentive support, allows couples to enjoy their day with confidence. newclose.org
Handmade Jewellery Inspired by the Ocean …Made to be Worn Anywhere.
Visit us in our Workshop and Studio to see how it is all made.
Cast in Solid Sterling Silver from the mould of real shells.
Collections for both Men and Women.
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
Tel. 01983 685578
www.thomaspcochran.com
A new range added to our Autumn collections.
3.4 length jacket in vibrant colors and styles, also bodywarmers, quilted jackets and corduroy dresses.
Orientique
the look at
Now stocking ‘Another Sunday’
Pictured is the Poplin, puff sleeved, midi smock dress £70
Italian leather metallic green camera bag £44
Hammered circle bracelet
£22.50
Powder Briana Sunglasses
£39
Big Metal beaded hoop earrings £12
Luchelle Boutique
Tel: 01983 717902
28 High St, Ventnor PO38 1RZ
luchelleboutique.co.uk /luchelleboutique
A Dream Becomes Reality
Introducing the new owners of BeCalmed in Cowes, now known as BeCalmed MediSpa.
Kristy and I are both Registered Nurses. We have over 40 years’ experience between us in Endoscopy and recently began looking at the possibility of forming a partnership. One thing led to another and now the lovely Caroline Hurley, past owner and inspiration behind BeCalmed, has handed the business she so passionately developed and nurtured over to us, and what big shoes we have to fill!
Kristy and I are both very dedicated to continuing the wellbeing and calming nature that BeCalmed is known for. The fabulous team that we have inheritedEmma, Hanna, April, Dani, Hollie, Naomi and Sveta - are all still here to bring those established ESPA treatments to you Monday to Saturday. Of course, you’ll find little tweaks here and there, but you can be assured of our attention to detail and professionalism.
As fully insured and qualified practitioners, we have already introduced wrinkle smoothing treatments, injectable moisturisers and radio frequency-enhanced microneedling to our services. We have explored, researched and invested to bring to you more new and exciting treatments, so watch out for amazing offers.
On 6 September, we hosted our HydraFacial Syndeo launch party, a first for the Island. This brings a range of treatments for all skin types and all ages. Soon to follow will be our Teen Skin Clinic for clients from as young as 14.
Jo and Kristy with Emma, Hanna, Dani, April, Hollie, Naomi and Sveta.
8 Birmingham Rd Cowes PO31 7BH
becalmedincowes.co.uk
Are you ready for the best skin of your life?
Let us at BeCalmed MediSpa help you today with our latest addition… The HydraFacial Syndeo!
Life is busy! Juggling work, managing family life, running everyday errands meaning taking time to care for yourself and your skin falling to the end of the priority list. As a result, you end up exhausted and feeling like you look that way too.
While many still assume that visiting your local aesthetic clinic can be costly, requiring hours of appointments that require a significant amount of downtime, there are now modern treatments that can solve your skin woes all in under an hour.
Enter our brand new HydraFacial® Syndeo™ from BeCalmed MediSpa, the ultimate facial treatment that can unclog your pores, polish and hydrate your skin with no downtime.
How it works
Our HydraFacial® Syndeo™ treatment is suitable for all skin types and can address a variety of skin concerns, such as fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone, acne, hyperpigmentation, and dryness. The treatment is non-invasive, gentle, and provides immediate results, leaving the skin looking refreshed, hydrated, and radiant.
At BeCalmed MediSpa our skilled Therapists are trained to perform our HydraFacial® treatments with precision and care, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing experience for our clients. Whether you are looking to improve the overall health and appearance of your skin or address specific skin concerns, the HydraFacial® Syndeo™ treatment at BeCalmed MediSpa can help you achieve your skincare goals.
So, let’s be good to our skin, as we will wear it every day for the rest of our lives and get booked in for a HydraFacial® treatment today. (And don’t forget to ask to look at your Gunkie!)
Unlocking Connection: 10 Strategies to Strengthen
Your Relationships
By Shereen Hoban, Business Coach
Craving that next-level connection with everyone from the people next door to your office crew? We’re all looking for relationships with a bit more oomph and a little extra spark. So, if you’re all about making those everyday run-ins and team huddles count, here’s your personal cheat sheet. These ten fail-safe strategies will add some serious punch to your interactions. Let’s dial up the effort and make every encounter count!
1. Listen Like You Mean It: Listening can be your superpower. Instead of just waiting for your turn to speak, lock in on the conversation. Eye contact, a thoughtful nod, a reflective comment — these are the tools of someone who’s truly tuned in. It’s about making people feel like they’re the only one in the room. When you master this, you’ll find connections deepening without even trying.
2. Say Thanks More Often: Who knew two little words could do so much heavy lifting? ‘Thank you’ is relationship rocket fuel. Whether it’s for tidying up the house or backing you up in a meeting, showing gratitude can turn even the most mundane interactions into moments of magic. Start sprinkling those thank-yous generously and watch the good vibes roll in.
3. Keep Your Promises: Reliability is golden. Being known as someone who follows through is like having a VIP pass to Trust Town. It’s about making your word as dependable as sunrise, whether you’re promising to keep a secret or nail a project deadline. When people know they can count on you, you’re not just a friend or colleague — you’re a rock.
4. Let Your Guard Down: Honesty is refreshing, like a splash of cold water on a hot day. Sharing what’s on your mind, the real deal, invites others to do the same. It’s about creating a space where
it’s okay to be a work in progress. When you get honest and real, you give every one else permission to do the same. That’s when relationships get interesting.
5. Be There in the Tough Times: Here’s where you prove your worth. Anyone can be around for the wins, but showing up when the chips are down? That’s the stuff of legends. It’s about being a steadfast ally in the trenches. Those are the moments that forge unbreakable bonds.
6. Make Time Matter: Time is the currency of relationships. Spending it wisely means giving someone your full, undivided attention. Turn off your phone, shut down the distractions, and dive into the moment. Whether it’s a lunch date or a one-to-one meeting, being fully present is the ultimate compliment.
7. Understand and Respect Boundaries: This one’s about balance. Recognising where someone’s comfort zone ends shows that you respect them. This is all about creating a comfortable space for everyone. In a world that’s all about “go, go, go,” being the person who understands “no” is a breath of fresh air.
8. Encourage and Celebrate: Ever been around those people who are all about lifting others up? Be that person. A little encouragement can turn someone’s day, or even their life, around. Whether it’s a high-five for a small win or a full-on party
for a major milestone, when you celebrate others, you become a source of light in their lives.
9. Handle Conflicts with Care: Disagreeing doesn’t have to be about winning or losing. It’s about finding common ground and moving forward. When you approach conflicts with a cool head and a listening ear, you’re setting the stage for solutions that everyone can get behind. That’s how you turn a potential relationship-ruiner into a trust-builder.
10.Forgive Freely: Holding onto grudges is like carrying a backpack full of bricks. Let that stuff go. Forgiving isn’t about forgetting; it’s about choosing to move on and keeping the good stuff. When you forgive, you’re saying the future of the relationship is more important than its history. And that is how you keep the good times rolling.
This is your chance to turn every handshake, every “hello”, and every meeting into an opportunity for something memorable. So what are you waiting for? Go out there and turn your world into a place where every relationship is worth its weight in gold.
As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the rich, golden tones of autumn, Bembridge transforms into a serene haven, perfect for a tranquil retreat. After a sun-soaked season filled with beach days and barbecues, September and October offer a refreshing change of pace. The village of Bembridge, with its charming shops and welcoming community, invites you to explore its treasures.
Nestled in the sheltered entrance of the harbour, Brading Haven Yacht Club (BHYC) offers something for everyone, from seasoned sailors to complete beginners. The club’s year-round racing program and youth sailing development, supported by Royal Yachting Association qualified instructors, ensure members of all ages can enjoy and improve their sailing skills.
A defining feature of BHYC is its strong sense of community, which is nurtured by club secretary, Rachel (see her smiling face above).
Members volunteer for various duties, contributing to the club’s friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Social events, like the popular Tuesday Talks, feature
speakers from all walks of life and provide opportunities for members to connect.
BHYC recently launched a health and wellbeing programme called Health at the Haven, inspired by Susan Pinker’s TED talk ‘The Secret to Living Longer May Be Your Social Life’. New activities promoting physical, mental, and emotional health include art, astronomy, gardening, and open water swimming.
Travelling around Bembridge Harbour and up into the village, you will notice the bright blue smiling logo of Lagom, a recent addition to the community. One of the owners, Annicka, grew up in the village and recently returned with her husband, Richard, and young
family to open the cafe. The couple’s passion for coffee and Scandinavian culture is evident all around this lovely premises. From the minimalist decor to the carefully curated menu, Annicka and Richard have poured their love and passion into every corner, creating a space that feels just right – a perfect blend of energy and tranquillity, where they prioritise sustainability and community engagement, recently hosting local artist works and a pop-up vintage store.
As you step into the cafe, you are greeted by the warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee. One of the standout offerings is the chai latte, a favourite among regulars for its perfect blend of spices and creamy texture. And for those with a sweet tooth, the
Words Natalie Wade
Images Christian Warren
Painting by Charlotte Hodge - Thomas
handmade Swedish balls are an irresistible treat that pairs perfectly with any of their specialty drinks. The couple’s dedication to their craft is clear in every cup, made from OddKin roasted beans and served with a smile.
Annicka and Richard have created a community space where people can gather, relax, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. Whether you are a coffee aficionado, a parent with little ones, or a dog owner looking for a pet-friendly spot, the shop’s warm and inviting environment makes it a perfect place to relax, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a moment of peace.
Right next door to Lagom, you’ll find the perfect haven for hair care at Lucy Jones Hair. Renowned for
exceptional service, Lucy ensures you leave feeling refreshed, relaxed, and stylish. An expertise in colouring, she transforms hair with vibrant, lasting hues that perfectly complement each client’s unique style. At the forefront of hair care technology, Lucy uses K18 products to repair bonds and reverse damage from chemical processing, restoring hair’s health and vitality. In addition to colouring, the salon offers a range of services, from fresh cuts to nourishing treatments.
Planning a special occasion? Try Emma Alice Hair. Emma is a freelance stylist in Bembridge, skilled in designing wedding hair that ensures brides look their best on the big day (see left for one of her stunning up dos). Emma’s journey in hairdressing
Annicka and Richard’s dedication is evident in every corner of Lagrom.
You’ll find the perfect haven for hair care at Lucy Jones Hair.
began 20 years ago with a thirst for creativity and a desire to make people feel beautiful. Over the years, she has honed her skills and developed a reputation for her exceptional talent and good humour. Her experience allows her to create stunning, bespoke hairstyles that perfectly complement each bride’s vision and personality.
No visit to Bembridge is complete without stopping by Bembridge Flowers. This charming florist brings a touch of nature to the coastal village. Known for its individuality and originality, this florist offers a wide range of arrangements that capture the beauty of the seasons. At Bembridge Flowers, every bouquet is a work of art. Ellie creates stunning handtied bouquets, vase arrangements, and bespoke floral
pieces for all occasions. Whether celebrating a special event, expressing sympathy, or brightening up your home, her flowers make a lasting impression.
Anchored in the heart of Bembridge, HotBox Bakery is a hub for lovers of artisanal baked goods. Founded by passionate bakers John Fahy and James Newnham, their combined expertise has made it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. John, a seasoned baker, honed his skills at Gordon Ramsay’s Tante Marie cookery school. His commitment to quality and creativity is evident in every bite. James, with a background in fine dining, ensures each product tastes amazing and looks exquisite. His career includes a 9-year period with the Island’s Robert Thompson.
Find floral joy and colour at Bembridge Flowers. Artisanal baked goods at HotBox.
Their standout offerings include the rich, sweet babka and handcrafted luxury doughnuts. The bakery’s breads, from crusty sourdough to soft brioche, are made with the finest ingredients and baked to perfection. Adding to the welcoming atmosphere is Alice, the warm and friendly host who ensures every customer feels at home. Hot Box Bakery is more than just a place to buy bread; it’s a hotspot where people enjoy good food and great company.
La Wode is situated along Forelands Road. It is a must-visit for unique and thoughtful gifts. The collection includes ceramics, designer jewellery, greeting cards, and designer scarves. The shop also features handmade collections, children’s books, and souvenirs capturing the essence of Bembridge and the Isle of Wight.
Boasting brands like Jellycat, Steiff, Kaloo, and Floss & Rock, the shop also features jewellery and Roka bags that pop in colour and use recycled materials so are great for the environment. Katie Cardew homewares and Ulster Weavers textiles are also part of the curated selection by Deborah Taylor, ensuring you do not need to leave the village for unique gifts.
For rejuvenation and wellness, visit Anu Beauty, a salon offering a range of treatments to help you look and feel your best. From relaxing facials to rejuvenating massages, Anu provides a sanctuary where you can unwind and indulge in pampering.
Located down by Lane End, Anu Beauty embraces you in a calming
You’ll find all kinds of wonderful things at La Wode.
Anu Beauty is a sanctuary.
environment with nail stations and private treatment rooms.
The offerings include Neal’s Yard Remedies facials, using natural and organic skincare products, and deeply relaxing massages tailored to each client. The salon also offers products from St. Eval, Bloom, and Bohemia, ensuring the finest, ethically-sourced ingredients.
Founded by Katie Colman in 2005, Anu Beauty celebrates holistic beauty and wellness. The tranquil atmosphere, enhanced by essential oils, is perfect for escaping everyday stresses. Katie and her team provide exceptional care, offering additional services like acupuncture and chiropody to promote overall wellbeing.
Amongst the creativity found in abundance in Bembridge, Charlotte Hodge Thomas stands out as a remarkable artist whose work
beautifully captures the essence of the Isle of Wight. Her stunning artwork ranges from realistic seascapes and landscapes to vibrant abstracts, reflecting her deep connection to her surroundings.
Charlotte’s journey as an artist began in her childhood, growing up in the very village she now calls home. Her dedication to art has grown over the years, leading her to create pieces that resonate with both locals and visitors. Her work is celebrated for its ability to evoke the natural beauty and harmonious surroundings of the Isle of Wight.
Charlotte’s studio transforms into a gallery during the Open Studios event, showcasing original paintings, limited edition prints, and art cards. Visitors can explore three rooms filled with her diverse artwork, from award-winning seascapes to organic abstracts.
Charlotte also offers a commission service for bespoke artwork tailored to specific tastes and spaces. Visit her website for upcoming exhibitions, that include Autumn Sun at Quarr Abbey which runs from 26 September to 1 October.
Beyond the shops, Bembridge boasts stunning natural beauty and historical landmarks. Take a leisurely walk to the Bembridge Windmill, the last surviving windmill on the Isle of Wight, or stroll down to the RNLI Bembridge lifeboat station located on the easternmost point of the Island - it has a rich history dating back to 1867.
For those who love the outdoors, Bembridge’s picturesque beaches are a must-visit. The cooler autumn weather makes for perfect beachcombing conditions, and the quieter shores provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of summer.
Charlotte Hodge Thomas and her faithful pooch, Izzy.
Bembridge is famous for its windmill and pier. Copyright: www.visitisleofwight.co.uk
Anu Natural Beauty 1 Lane End Close, Lane End Road anunaturalbeauty.co.uk
Bembridge Flower Shop 6 High St bembridgeflowershop.co.uk
Brading Haven Yacht Club Embankment Road bhyc.org.uk
Charlotte Hodge Thomas 24 Walls Road charlottehodgethomas.co.uk
Emma Alice Hair Freelance Stylist 07581263530
HotBox Bakery 33 High St @hotboxbakerjohn @ hotboxbakery_bembridge
Tucked on the eastern coast of the Isle of Wight, Sandhills Holiday Park is a blissful hideaway and the perfect addition to the village of Bembridge. Family-run for over 60 years, Sandhills provides a restful sanctuary to relax with family or friends. Its dog-free policy ensures a tranquil environment with large open spaces perfect for children to play safely. The park boasts direct access to the stunning Whitecliff Bay via a private path, ideal for beach lovers seeking a quiet and picturesque setting. The area is also a paradise for walkers, with a coastal footpath offering panoramic walks into Bembridge, and being situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty makes it perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Bembridge is more than just a destination; it is a community that welcomes visitors with open arms. From the bustling stores to the
picturesque harbour, you’ll find an abundance of services that cater to every need. As you explore the village this September and October, you will find yourself appreciating its seasonal shifts and unique charm. Bembridge offers a slice of island life that is sure to leave a lasting impression, so visit this autumn and experience the charm and beauty of this coastal village for yourself - you won’t be disappointed.
Lagom Sherborne St @lagomisleofwight
La Wode 7 Foreland Road facebook.com/lawode welcome@lawode.com
Lucy Jones Hair 2 High St lucyjoneshair-iow.co.uk
Sandhills Holiday Park Peacock Hill, Hillway sandhillsholidaypark.com
It’s fun in the sun at Sandhills Holiday Park. Pets with Hart has it all.
33 High St. Bembridge
Opening hours
Tuesday 7.30-2
Wednesday 7.30-2
Thursday 7.30-2
Friday 7.30-2
Saturday 7.30-2
Sunday CLOSED
Monday CLOSED
@hotboxbakerjohn @hotboxbakery_bembridge
FREELANCE STYLIST
Tel: 07581263530 @emmaalicehair
DESTINATION:
Ryde
Our Christmas edition of Style of Wight features all the wonders RYDE has to offer. This destination feature gives you the opportunity to profile your business alongside a beautifully presented and engaging feature.
in the first instance please contact email christian@styleofwight.co.uk Or call 01983 861007 / 07766445299
IGARDEN ROOMS
With Chris Kidd Ventnor Botanic Garden
t is often said that the garden is an outdoor room. It’s not a new concept, and yet we use this outdoor room to function as many rooms – as a kitchen, living room, study or even gym. Perhaps we should consider choosing the room we would like to have outside and using that as the theme for the garden.
Take the kitchen, with its need for cooking and washing, food preparation, a dining space and easy access to equipment. This is all easy to do, but we give no thought to where each item will be. In your own kitchen, doesn’t the sink need to be near the water? Yet in the garden kitchen there may not even be running water! Design your outdoor kitchen as you would the indoor one. There’s no need to begin with a blank canvas, but consider the geography of what you have. Where will the table be? Will it be next to the smoky barbecue, or a distance away? Is the table position in or out of the sun? It should perhaps have a canopy, but that could be plants. Are the surfaces suited for moving hot foods about? Steps should be carefully considered. Is the floor level, will the tomatoes roll onto the floor?
The outdoor kitchen can also be the larder: fruits and vegetables fresh from the plant; herbs to add at the last minute; flowers to decorate the banquet. These types of plants all need maximum light levels to avoid disappointment. Some of these are just too difficult to grow, the theatre of a flourished aubergine straight from the plant and then cooked for the table might be a bridge too far. The plants of the table tend to not be the most ornamental, a veg plot is a veg plot however you dress it up, so ornament should
have equal ranking alongside usefulness. One of the key things to remember is the back end of the food production line, keeping the compost and recycling far enough away to be inoffensive must be a consideration.
As a living room, space is not the issue you imagine; we actually use far less space than we design for. Aim high with furniture, get the best you can afford for comfort. Economic-based choice may lead to discomfort and relying on perishable furniture brought out from inside the house is also not the answer. Yet even the finest teak furniture will be like sitting on a scaffold plank if not cushioned correctly, consider comfort as well as design and sustainability.
Think outside of the box. In Europe our rooms have been typically square since Roman times for reasons of easy build, and our gardens follow suit. Psychologically, however, we remain more comfortable in non-geometric environments, so don’t build your outside room like a square or oblong, break the edges with plants. Don’t always delineate with fences. Allow the area to spread into irregular shapes. We feel more comfortable when protected on one side, so give a backdrop on two sides to allow for choice. As animals, we innately look to each other in the absence of fire, so no matter what garden feature is made we will naturally turn to face each other. A fire pit or brazier is a great choice for late evening focus as we are all at heart firewatchers, so relax in the garden jungle room and pour a G&T.
botanic.co.uk
Foraging for Flowers
As lifestyle trends shift towards sustainability and reconnecting with nature, floristry is following suit. In 2024, interior displays are all about capturing the wilder side of flowers.
Flower displays are often overlooked when interiors are discussed, but they can make or break any room. They also reflect current design trends. 2023 saw an emphasis on sustainable floristry – the use of wildflowers and foraged flowers in bouquets – reflecting the movement towards sustainable practice in many industries.
This trend towards natural floristry is continuing in 2024, and the idea of buying locally, including locally grown cut flowers, has moved beyond a trend and become a lifestyle. Are the flowers we place in our homes locally grown or have they been imported from a distant flower farm and force-grown out of season? The good news is that autumn’s diverse seasonal blooms lend themselves perfectly to a natural, sustainable style.
Wild arrangements provide a broad palette; the use of grasses can add height to an arrangement, while rich green foliage will bring the depth of colour needed to showcase the range of flowers that begin to appear as the days get cooler. Using herbs (rosemary, sage and, of course, lavender), vines, berries, and even sticks or branches can add interest and scent to your bouquet. The feeling of spontaneous wild-
ness that these contrasting plants create is what you’re looking for, and is a long way from the more contrived, perfectly formed bouquets we have seen in years past. The idea is to have a display that looks fresh and newly picked, like you’ve just brought them in from the garden.
Don’t be restrained by traditional floral displays when designing foraged flower bouquets. Dandelions, heather, vegetables, and even autumn leaves all give a fresh take on how to bring this colourful season indoors. Think glass vases so you can enjoy the stems as well as the blooms, floral wreaths to adorn your doors inside and out, or cleaned-out pumpkins and gourds for a Halloween vibe.
To make a wildflower bouquet work, you really need to have a good understanding of seasonal blooms (or know a florist who does!). And, of course, not everyone has the time or energy to go foraging for flowers every week, nor can we all boast a garden full of delightful cut flowers. This doesn’t mean you can’t get in on the wild bouquet trend, however. We’ve asked some expert florists for their tips and tricks in preparing your ‘autumn foraged flower’ look.
Seasonal change
Autumn is a time of seasonal change, and this is really reflected in the floral landscape with a whole new variety of flowers and colours being available for use. Top floral picks of the season are huge hydrangeas in their deep autumnal hues – even using just one makes an impact. Another seasonal stunner is the dahlia; they come in such a vast range of colours, shapes, and textures and they never get boring! Adding flowers such as kangaroo paw or sanguisorba to your autumn bouquets will really give them that wild look.
Colour schemes
Autumn is a great time of year for colour. There’s an array of rich hues to choose from – vivid oranges to deep pink and bronze. But don’t fret if you love pastels as these deep, striking shades are often complemented by a pale pink or peach hue. The flowers don’t have to do all the work at this time of year – foliage such as beech, oak, and red robin also provide excellent additions to floral arrangements.
Texture
Autumn is also a brilliant season for texture. To add that extra something to your arrangements, think about including some seed heads; poppy seed heads and crocosmia are perfect additions. Also, forage the hedgerow for some berries – rosehips and blackberries always look great. Just be careful of thorns!
Vases
To complement the tones of the season, autumnal arrangements always look the part in anything terracotta; garden pots or old chimney pots do the trick nicely. Also, keep an eye out for old metal containers such as buckets; the rust will only enhance the colour scheme of the flowers!
6 High St, Bembridge
Autumn colour
For an Autumn bouquet, it is all about the rusty oranges, yellows, and reds, in my opinion. Obviously working seasonally would be best. For this, I would suggest golden bloom chrysanthemums, rosehips, ammi daucus, solidago and more! Eustoma is also great as it comes in a range of colours.
In my opinion, Autumn is one of the best seasons for flowers. You can have garden roses, dahlias, hydrangeas, a lot of beautiful small flowers, and dried flowers. These are usually in deep reds and toffee colours. For me, just as important as the colours used are the textures, the tall grasses and the seedheads.
Vases
We actually did a fun design last year at the Homes and Interiors show. We used one large vase (conical vase) and a smaller conical vase. I hunted down twenty mini gourds and placed them inside the vase, nestled all the way around the smaller vase. It looked great!
Ellie from Bembridge Flower Shop
Catherine from the Flower Garden 45 St. James St, Newport
À La Modh
They are the four quarters of a square. They have their own strengths, yet fit perfectly together to create Modh Design. Then there’s Dougal the dog. He does his own thing.
It is an architectural practice which turns expectation on its head. In the 10 years since Colman and Emma Cotter founded the business, Modh Design has turned dereliction into beauty, given new life to things vintage, and created stunning spaces large and small that simply make Island life better.
“Modh means ‘method,” explains Colman, speaking with the eloquent tones of his native Cork, “and the method of working is a massive thing to us. Each of us have different disciplines but work in this open space, so we all offer something to the projects we work on.”
The office is not the hushed Venetian-blinded room you might associate with an architectural practice. It is on stone walls of a former cow barn that framed photographs of some of their many completed projects on the Island are hung: new builds and restorations; conversions of commer-cial buildings to
domestic. The uniting element is extraordinary style and attention to detail.
It’s a practice born of seizing surprises. Both Colman and Emma were working in London, he as a newly qualified architect and she as a Part 2 architectural assistant, when the 2009 recession caused both to face redundancy. Colman landed a job on the Island – a surprise to Emma. Then in 2015 they set up on their own, from their home in Cowes.
“We were working on Rob da Bank’s house, on East Afton Farm, on Tapnell Farm – all from our garden shed!” says Emma.
Their move to the current office was in 2018. Emily, a young interior architecture graduate came for work experience. “And five years later she’s still here!” says Colman. He heard about Ella, their architectural technologist, through one of their builder associates. “I was commuting four hours a day,” she says. “Then
these guys contacted me – it was written on the stars really.” The foursome was complete.
“If we need to know anything about planning, we’ve got Emily, we have Ella’s technical knowhow, and Emma has an amazing design head that can pull out buildings from somewhere!”
So the practice is rounded, its reputation solid, meaning their tradespeople are reliable. Colman’s (and soon Emma’s) RIBA title means reassurance for the client. “An architect mediates between client and builder; they are the client’s advocate throughout.”
Something that stands out is Modh’s green awareness. They’ve coined the phrase ‘Ecovation’, where renewable energy, orientation, insulation, ventilation, building fabric, triple glazing, electric vehicle charger points are either designed into the plans or retro-fitted into a converted building. “There might be
Design is a method, a process. We process the information, we test it, till we come up with a solution that best deals with the constraints, the context, the budget
more cost at the outset, but clients ultimately save, and feel they’re giving some-thing back,” says Colman.
When clients’ expectations exceed their budget, Emma feels their frustration. “It is ridiculous that £80,000 doesn’t get you your dream extension but given the rise in costs since the pandemic, Rus-sia’s invasion on Ukraine and Brexit, it probably doesn’t touch the sides.” TV’s Grand Designs, it seems, has a lot to answer for.
“But as a team we’re quite good at tempering expectations with new suggestions, without being dream crushers,” adds Emily. “New ideas also get people excited.”
The conversation always comes back to good design. A good idea triggers another commission. “Tapnell Farm initially asked us to convert a shipping container into a burger bar,” recalls Colman. “Then it was ‘let’s do something with the building,’ and that
became The Cow restaurant. Then we talked about zip wires and places for kids to play in . . .” At East Afton, a barn with caving roof led them to create a beautiful wedding and events venue.
The team’s favourite type of project is one that benefits a community group, such as that for the Shademakers carnival costume makers, working alongside Architects Turner Works for whom they are converting the old Elizabeth Pack store in Ryde. This passion is not just making good use of an empty space. “It’s so important to keep that richness, that heritage, but to do it with taste and rea-son.” Sometimes they retain an element of that past, like making a feature of an uncovered struc-ture, detail or a bit of lathe and plaster on a restored wall.
Just completed in Freshwater Bay is the spectacular transformation of the Albion Hotel. Then there are the projects that have a transformative effect on the high street such
as the old Police Station in Cowes. “Ideally we’d like a police station full of police,” smiles Emma, “but that isn’t today’s reality. So, to turn it to a Business premises for Spinlock, where it’ll be looked after, has a positive knock-on effect on its surroundings.” Colman points to the converted Bandstand in Sandown, formerly ne-glected and vandalised and now a beautiful café.
Despite the gorgeousness of the living spaces they make, Modh Design, and its people, are very much rooted in the real life of the Island. Beyond work, Colman volunteers for Isle of Wight Search and Rescue, and Emma, until recently, chaired a local children’s charity, now volunteering as a Samaritan.
So, given the sheer number of buildings they have created, transformed and are currently working on – how on earth do these four do it? “We work long hours,” says Colman. “And it’s about team-work,” observes Dougal the dog. modhdesign.co.uk
Colman
Discover the best industry brands at LINEAR KITCHEN DESIGNS
Specialising in kitchen solutions tailored to the unique needs of each client, Linear Kitchen Designs offers Islanders a curated selection of premium cabinetry and appliances from top brands. Their designs emphasise clean lines, innovative features, and seamless integration, ensuring that every kitchen is both beautiful and practical.
The design is in the details, so they say, and this is especially true when it comes to the best quality kitchen. When shopping for cabinets at Linear, customers can choose between German-made Nolte and Britishmade Kesseler; whatever the decision, exceptional craftsmanship is guaranteed. When it comes to appliances, their stock of renowned brands like Miele, Neff, Quooker, Blanco, and Spekva ensures access to the finest options available.
Venting hobs? Linear has got you covered here, too, with German brand Bora leading the way in this innovative category. Their cutting-edge cooktop extractor systems are revolutionising kitchen ventilation by integrating powerful extraction directly into the cooktop. This innovation eliminates the need for overhead range hoods, allowing for cleaner lines and more open kitchen designs. Bora’s technology effectively removes cooking vapours and odours, ensuring a pleasant cooking environment. Known for their quiet operation and energy efficiency, Bora systems are a top choice for contemporary kitchens.
For those who prefer a range cooker over built-in appliances, Bertazzoni recently introduced the Air-Tec 90, a perfect blend of Italian design and modern innovation. This sophisticated solution offers seamless integration, advanced downdraft ventilation, superior cooking performance, and easy maintenance, making it an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both style and functionality. Linear Kitchen Designs is now the Island’s exclusive dealer for this exquisite brand, and you can even add a little citrus zing to your kitchen by choosing a product in one of their eye-catching colours, which include orange and yellow.
Whether you’re seeking contemporary elegance or timeless style, Linear Kitchen Designs is committed to creating spaces that enhance your home and lifestyle.
01983 522333
linearkitchendesign.co.uk
@linearkitchendesigns
BURNING AMBITIONS
As the days cool down, it’s time to warm up your evenings with Charnwood’s classic range of wood-burning stoves.
With autumn setting in, there’s a definite chill in the air, and thoughts inevitably turn to cosy evenings indoors. If snuggling in front of flickering flames, cuppa or glass of wine in hand, sounds like heaven, Charnwood may have the answer.
Proudly made in Britain for over 50 years, Charnwood stoves are designed and crafted on the Isle of Wight and are ideal for both urban and rural living, bringing warmth and comfort to any home. Meticulously constructed from cast iron and plate steel, their timeless designs feature ceramicglass picture windows, so you can enjoy a mesmerising view of the blazing fire within.
A smart and practical option for the environmentally conscious, Charnwood stoves are designed to burn sustainable local wood and nearly all models have earned a five-star Clear Skies rating, releasing minimal
emissions and particulates while maximising efficiency. They also meet strict European regulations. Furthermore, they provide an independent heat source for those inbetween months when you’re not quite ready to flick the central heating back on, and their enduring appeal also has a positive impact on wellbeing and mental health. After all, who could fail to enjoy a toasty evening in front of their warm glow? Choose from Charnwood’s manually operated stoves or the new automatic Skye E700, where all you need to do is load, light and shut the door. The appcontrolled intelligent tech does the rest! So make yourself a drink, grab a good book and settle in for a cosy evening.
charnwood.com
@charnwoodstoves
Anne Toms: A Life in Art
Anne Toms, a name synonymous with vibrant creativity and coastal flow, has left an indelible mark on the Isle of Wight. Celebrating her 80th birthday this year, Anne has spent her career well, carving out a niche in the British art scene. Her work mainly blends the natural beauty of the Island with her unique windswept style.
Anne grew up in coastguard cottages across the British Isles, always near the sea – a presence that has clearly influenced her work. She now creates paintings inspired by the landscapes of the Isle of Wight, which you will find exhibited at Yarmouth Gallery. This small but vibrant space showcases a variety of artworks, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and jewellery. Anne curates the gallery with an eye for quality, offering a platform for emerging and established artists alike. The gallery's exhibitions celebrate the Island in all its coastal beauty, featuring works that range from traditional to contemporary, always with a focus on originality and craftsmanship.
Under Toms’ direction, the Yarmouth Gallery has become more than just a place to view art; it is a space where creativity is celebrated and nurtured. The gallery
hosts regular workshops, artist talks, and community events, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration among artists and art lovers on the Island.
Her commitment to supporting fellow artists and engaging with the community has had a lasting impact on the cultural life of the Isle of Wight. As both an artist and a curator, Toms continues to inspire others with her creativity, passion, and dedication to the arts. The Yarmouth Gallery reflects her vision, creating a space where art and community come together.
Forresters Hall, High St, Yarmouth, PO41 0PL 01983 761424
yarmouthgallery.com
Modern Luxury with Bayliss & Booth Bespoke and Ian Mankin Fabrics
Bayliss & Booth introduces its bespoke collection of upholstered furniture, designed exclusively in-house and now showcasing in Ian Mankin’s timeless stripes. This bespoke range is meticulously handcrafted by a third-generation heritage British furniture maker, with each piece featuring handmade hardwood frames and luxurious upholstery, offering a huge choice of fabrics to suit any style.
Among the carefully curated fabric options, Bayliss & Booth is delighted to feature the sophisticated and versatile designs of Ian Mankin. Founded in 1983, the company is renowned for producing British fabrics using 100% natural cotton, linen, and wool. Their signature stripes, checks, and plains come in a subtle, contemporary colour palette that effortlessly endures changing trends, and especially complements and accentuates a coastal scheme.
What sets Ian Mankin fabrics apart is their dedication to sustainable practices. All fabrics and home accessories are designed, woven, and sewn at their weaving mill in Burnley, Lancashire, using generations of craftsmanship. The weaving process is chemical-free, with the only finishing treatment being a wash in pure Pennine water. This commitment to minimal environmental impact means the fabrics travel no further than thirty miles during production, resulting in a reduced transportation footprint.
Ian Mankin is also known for its recycled cotton throws. These throws are made from recycled yarns, derived from postproduction waste during the spinning and pattern-cutting processes. Crafted with the same meticulous attention to detail, they are woven and sewn at their Lancashire mill. Available in signature designs, they
are remarkably soft, finished with a blanket stitch or fringed hem, and come in sizes suitable for any bed or sofa.
Pop in-store to discover the perfect piece to enhance your home, combining timeless elegance with modern sustainable luxury, or to design your new bespoke upholstered furniture. You can also visit the fabric room, with an array of choices from contemporary patterns to classic designs, catering to every taste and decor style, and available by the metre.
DISCOVER ANNIE SLOAN AT DIG FOR VINTAGE
In the world of DIY home decor, few names stand out like Annie Sloan. Known for revolutionising the way we approach furniture restoration, her signature chalk paint has become a go-to for both beginners and seasoned crafters alike. With its ease of use, versatility, and a wide range of colours, Annie Sloan’s Chalk Paint™ offers a creative outlet for transforming tired, old furniture into stunning, personalised pieces. If all that wasn’t enough, chalk paint is water-based and has almost no smell, which makes it environmentally friendly and safe to use indoors.
All you have to do is grab your favourite piece of furniture – anything from a worn-out dresser to a dated coffee table – then start painting. It really is that easy. There is no need for sanding or even washing. Your biggest problem will be choosing a colour. The diverse options have helped establish Annie Sloan as an iconic brand, but they certainly don’t make it easy for you to choose! You can go down a more traditional route with a range of greys or whites, or jazz up your home with colours like the bright yellow Tilton, bold blue of Giverny, or even a bright pink with Capri.
When you’ve finished applying the paint, you’ll need a clear wax to protect and enhance the colour, or you can use a brown wax for that vintage look. Chalk paint also works as a perfect base for creative embellishments, such as stencils, decoupage, or freehand designs, so you know your finished piece is definitely one-of-a-kind.
On the Island, you’ll find the entire Annie Sloan paint range, brushes, waxes, and anything else you need at Dig For Vintage in Ryde. As the only stockists on the Island, they are perfectly placed to make sure you’ve got all the items and advice you need to create stunning pieces to set off your home. While you’re in store, you may even find the perfect ornament to set off your new piece of furniture!
digforvintage.co.uk
Dig For Vintage No.4 The Colonnade Ryde
ACORN INTERIORS: FROM SMALL SEEDS TO GRAND DESIGNS
During 25 years of providing top-quality joinery, building, and design services, Acorn Interiors and its head, Alan Short, have learned a thing or two. This is reflected in their nomination this year for the Chamber of Commerce’s Best Small Business of the Year and their win of the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year award. Both are remarkable milestones that underscore the company’s dedication to excellence as well as the visionary approach at the heart of its leadership team.
This recognition coincided with the rebranding of the company, which involved
updating the company’s visual identity and market presence to align with their focus on quality craftsmanship and tailored services. The company sought to create a more modern and cohesive brand that would resonate with their expanding client base and showcase their expertise in creating unique, custom spaces.
Alan, the driving force behind Acorn Interiors, is an entrepreneur whose career began in his family’s high-end marine outfitting joinery business. After gaining extensive hands-on experience and studying management, Alan led the family business to significant growth
before relocating to the Isle of Wight in 2004 and establishing Acorn Interiors. One of the company’s first major projects was The Hut in Colwell Bay, a challenging assignment that they executed with precision, later returning to enhance the design further.
Acorn Interiors has since completed several high-profile projects, including work at The Terrace Hotel & Wine Room in Ventnor, The George Hotel, and Yarmouth Harbour Commissioners. The company often collaborates with Vivus Interiors, sharing a common design vision and commitment to excellence.
FIRST FLOOR PLAN/LOFT
Woodlands Resort & Spa
Acorn Interiors’ newest project, Woodlands Resort & Spa, is a visionary development that combines luxury with sustainability in an enchanting natural setting on the Isle of Wight. This project is unique for its innovative approach to hospitality, blending modern design with the serene beauty of the woodland environment.
A standout feature is the treehouse accommodations, which are thoughtfully designed to offer guests an immersive experience in nature while ensuring accessibility for all, including those with disabilities. The treehouses are nestled among the trees, crafted with eco-friendly materials, and feature expansive windows to bring the outside in, allowing guests to feel truly connected to the surrounding landscape. The Woodlands Resort & Spa is not just a retreat, but a testament to Acorn Interiors’ commitment to creativity, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship.
Future Projects
Acorn Interiors is poised to continue its tradition of excellence with a series of future projects that promise to push the boundaries of design and craftsmanship. Among these, the Gatcombe Estate project stands out as a significant undertaking, blending historical preservation with contemporary luxury. This development will feature a series of high-end residential spaces, each designed with Acorn Interiors’ signature attention to detail and commitment to quality.
Looking to the future, the company plans to expand its services, particularly in sustainable design and smart home technology. With ongoing investments in talent and training, and a focus on client-centric, personalised service, the company is well-positioned for continued growth and success.
acorn-interiors.co.uk
COASTAL INTERIORS: BEYOND BLUE – DISCOVER FRESH COASTAL LOOKS WITH XV STRIPES
When we think of coastal interiors, the colour blue often comes to mind, reflecting the endless sky and serene sea. But coastal living is not confined to shades of azure. XV Stripes believes that the essence of coastal charm can be expressed through a variety of colours and patterns, offering a fresh perspective on seaside-inspired décor. Here’s how you can embrace coastal interiors without being limited to blue, featuring some of their standout wallpapers and products.
Embrace Neutral Tones:
Coastal interiors can be beautifully achieved with neutral palettes that evoke the sandy shores and natural elements of the coast. XV Stripes’ Sand Dunes wallpaper features soft, sandy hues with subtle textures that mimic the shifting sands of a beach. It’s perfect for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere without relying on traditional blues.
Celebrate Earthy Greens:
Bring the lush greenery of coastal vegetation into your home with Seaside Ferns wallpaper. This design incorporates calming shades of green that evoke the tranquillity of coastal landscapes, offering a fresh take on coastal themes. Pair it with natural materials like jute and bamboo for a cohesive look.
Opt for Warm Coral Accents:
Coral hues can add a vibrant and lively touch to your coastal décor. XV Stripes’ Coral Reef wallpaper features dynamic patterns in shades of coral, orange, and soft pink, inspired by the vibrant marine life and underwater beauty of coral reefs. This lively design is ideal for creating focal points and adding energy to any room.
Incorporate Soft Greys and Whites:
For a more contemporary coastal look, consider XV Stripes’ Driftwood wallpaper. With its subtle grey tones and elegant texture reminiscent of weathered driftwood, it adds a sophisticated yet relaxed feel to your space. It pairs beautifully with white and light grey furnishings for a serene and modern coastal look.
Add Subtle Nautical Touches:
If you love the nautical theme but want to move beyond blue, explore XV Stripes’ Anchors Away wallpaper, which features understated nautical motifs in soft, neutral tones. This design allows you to incorporate coastal charm without overwhelming the space with traditional maritime colours.
Layer Textures and Patterns:
Coastal interiors are not just about colour – they’re also about texture and pattern. XV Stripes’ wallpapers are designed to complement various textures, from natural wood to woven fabrics. Mix and match their designs to create a layered look that reflects the varied elements of coastal living.
By exploring these diverse options, you can create a coastal-inspired space that is uniquely your own, without being limited to the classic blue palette. XV Stripes offers a range of wallpapers that bring the essence of the coast into your home in fresh and innovative ways. Discover how you can redefine coastal elegance with their distinctive designs and transform your interiors into a serene seaside retreat, no matter where you are.
XVStripes.com
TEXTURE AND TONE FOR EVERY SPACE IN YOUR HOME, ALL AVAILABLE AT LONG LANE CARPETS AND FLOORING
Imagine stepping into your home - the entryway bright and fresh with warm beige Cotswold flagstones from Ca’Pietra lining the floor. A spectrum of pastels rise up the stairs on the Roger Oates Kyoto Blossom runner - its gentle but playful colours inspired by Japanese cherry blossom trees.
You move slowly into the living room, where your Ted Todd wood flooring stands out not just for its beauty, but for its commitment to sustainability. Offering a range of wood flooring options that are as eco-friendly as they are luxurious, each plank is crafted from responsibly sourced wood, treated with natural oils, and designed to last a lifetime. You did struggle choosing which look to go
for because the variety is so great, but you’re glad you chose the Parkhurst Herringbone because its natural finish and warming colour bring texture to the room.
Walk through now into your kitchen, where the flooring changes to Amtico’s durable luxury vinyl. Perfect for modern living, you’ve chose the realistic stone. Smooth and cool, the colour is neutral, subtle, and modern, perfectly complementing the sleekness of the space.
The bedrooms offer a different experience entirely. Feel the softness of the plush Alternative Flooring natural hand-loomed carpet beneath your feet. In the bathrooms,
savour the heated natural stone tiles from Ca’Pietra - the warmth is immediate and comforting.
Everywhere you look, the flooring is not just a backdrop but a defining feature of your home’s design. It’s clear that every choice was made with care, and it brings the entire space together in a way that’s both functional and undeniably beautiful. Everything feels meticulously crafted, from the smooth transitions between rooms to the thoughtful use of materials that suit each space perfectly.
longlanecarpetsandflooring.co.uk
Roger Oates Kyoto Blossom runner
Long Lane Carpets and Flooring is more than just a store - it’s a gateway to transforming your space into a sanctuary of style and comfort.
Ted Todd Parkhurst Herringbone
Ted Todd Hollington - Classic Tones
Woodworks by Ted Todd - Aged Lauzes
finest Quality
Isle of Wight: Shutters
Apollo Blinds’ Isle of Wight franchise has been serving customers since 1990, supplying and fitting quality made-to-measure blinds awnings, curtains and shutters.
Light, airy and incredibly stylish, shutters are the ideal choice when it comes to adding a touch of character to your home.
Their shutters have the widest range of styles, colours and premium materials. Each shutter is made to measure in the world’s largest shutter factory with state-of-the-art facilities. High quality layers of paint or stain are applied with a final UV layer to protect from fading. Every shutter is custom crafted with great attention to detail throughout the manufacturing process. The wood used for every shutter is specially stored, dried and treated to minimise the risk of warping and twisting, ensuring the finished product is of the highest quality.
No matter what shape or size, material or colour, attention to detail and state-of-the-art machinery are used in the manufacturing process to give peace of mind. Apollo shutters carry a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty for structural defects, hardware and colourfastness.
To arrange a free, no-obligation quotation for shutters for your home please contact the Apollo team on (01983) 402230 or visit apollo-blinds.co.uk/isle-of-wight
A SERENE RETREAT WITH MERMAID HOLIDAYS
at Compton Undermount
Compton Undermount is a lovingly restored 19th-century property; a hidden treasure tucked away on the south coast of this idyllic Island. The drive here took us along country roads, past quaint villages and lush landscapes.
As we reached the private tunnel which forms the entrance to the property, the grandeur struck us immediately. The verdant gardens enveloping the property were in full bloom, offering a vibrant entrance. The house stands regally, its architectural features hinting at the rich history we were eager to explore. Upon entry, we were immediately captivated by the light gleaming through the reception room’s stained-glass windows, seamlessly blending old-world charm with modern comforts.
One of the most memorable aspects of Compton Undermount is the breathtaking drawing room, which feels like stepping into a piece of history. The sheer size of the room, with its high ceilings and expansive layout, creates an immediate sense of brilliance. The room’s centrepiece is undoubtedly the grand fireplace, a masterful piece of craftsmanship that speaks to the building’s storied past. The fire crackled, enveloping us in warmth as we played on the grand piano. Outside, we sat with a glass of wine watching the sunset over the rolling hills, then retired to the elegant bedrooms and woke up to the gentle morning light filtering through the curtains.
Compton Undermount provided us with everything we needed for a memorable holiday. Its historical elegance made the perfect setting for relaxation and exploration. We ventured out to discover the charm of the Island, always returning to the welcoming embrace of our holiday home. As our stay drew to a close, we found ourselves reluctant to leave. Compton Undermount had become a home away from home, where we created cherished memories and found true relaxation. We departed with a promise to return, knowing that this restored Grade II building on the Isle of Wight would always hold a special place in our hearts.
To book a stay please visit or call Mermaid Holiday mermaidholidaysiow.co.uk
Bembridge Lodge, Bembridge
Agent: Spence Willard
Bembridge Lodge, a Grade II Listed family home built in the 1820s, offers stunning views over gardens, woodland, and The Solent to Portsmouth. Set on eight acres of garden and paddock, the property is constructed from Island stone and features tall windows, grand reception rooms, and eight bedrooms. Noteworthy details include ornate architrave with gold paintwork and a unique self-supporting cantilever stone staircase, all well-preserved but ripe for renovation. The Lodge includes a private, self-contained two-bedroom cottage, a substantial garage complex, and a productive kitchen garden. The grounds, featuring lawns, woodland, a pond, and a large flagstone terrace, offer a picturesque setting with sweeping sea views.
spencewillard.co.uk
‘Western Approach’, Gurnard
Agent: McCarthy & Booker
Located in a stunning location offering outstanding sea views, this detached house, built in 2000, is a true gem waiting to be discovered. Enjoy panoramic views of the sea right from the comfort of your own home from the deep balcony across its frontage. Three bath/shower rooms, two ensuite and a flexible fifth bedroom is currently used as an office, the expansive kitchen/dining/living room covers the whole of the upper floor.
Ample parking space with room for up to 5 vehicles, as well as a double garage, and a secluded rear garden, whether you’re a family looking for a peaceful holiday retreat in a serene environment or as a permanent home, this property has something for everyone.
mccarthyandbooker.co.uk
Marine View Close, Cowes
Agent: McCarthy & Booker
A beautiful house with fabulous sea views and garden located in Cowes on a private road. The property boasts not only a prime location, but also ample space with a split-level open plan sitting room, a large glass sided balcony and kitchen, perfect for entertaining guests or simply relaxing with your family. With five bedrooms and four bathrooms, there is plenty of room for everyone to enjoy their own space and privacy. Set over three split level floors, this immaculate property boasts two balconies and is bright throughout. The layout of this property has been thoughtfully designed to maximise comfort and functionality. Completed with a secluded landscaped garden, off road parking for several vehicles and a garage - this is a wonderful home, permanent or holiday.
mccarthyandbooker.co.uk
LOCAL PROPERTY EXPERTISE WITH A PERSONAL TOUCH
The Isle of Wight has long captivated hearts with its stunning countryside, charming villages, and coastal allure. For those seeking to buy or sell property on the Island, BCM Wilson Hill is your trusted partner. The agency has expanded its reach, combining the expertise of two leading agencies to create a powerful force in the local and regional property market.
With a deep-rooted history on the Island, BCM Wilson Hill’s team of consultants has an unparalleled understanding of the local property market and is committed to providing exceptional service for its clients. Specialising in sales and lettings, their intimate knowledge of the Island’s unique character allows them to match clients with their perfect property, whether it’s a permanent home, a holiday retreat, or a lucrative investment.
In addition to its established Isle of Wight office, BCM Wilson Hill now boasts three strategically located offices across the South of England. This expanded network enables
them to tap into a wider pool of potential buyers from the key regions of Wiltshire, Dorset, Hampshire, Berkshire, Oxfordshire, West Sussex, Surrey, and beyond, helping them reach a larger audience and sell your property more quickly.
BCM Wilson Hill believes in building longlasting relationships with clients. Their dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service and personalised support throughout your property journey. Whether you’re looking to sell your Island home or find your dream property on the coast, their expert team will guide you every step of the way. They understand the intricacies of the local market and can provide invaluable insights to help you make informed decisions.
The rebrand to BCM Wilson Hill marks a significant milestone, signifying the company’s commitment to providing an even more comprehensive range of services, as well as an extended reach on the mainland. In addition to their core expertise in Sales
and Lettings, BCM Wilson Hill is proud to offer specialised consultancy in Planning and Development, Architecture, and Rural Consultancy.
Whether you’re buying, selling, renting, or developing, BCM Wilson Hill will help you achieve your goals. Contact them today to discuss your needs, their friendly and knowledgeable team is ready to assist you.
Bcm.co.uk
TRUST IS WHERE THE VALUE OF FINANCIAL PLANNING LIES
By Vicky Curtis, ROUSE LIMITED
Trust is such a big part of the client/adviser relationship and a key element of creating a trusting environment is through clear communication. Whether it’s through open dialogue between adviser and client about their financial goals, or the manner in which all aspects of the advice process are communicated.
You can trust us…
At Rouse Limited an adviser might be the face you see but they aren’t working alone: trust and teamwork weaves advisers, paraplanners and administration together to provide the framework of support, guidance and continuity of service.
You can trust us…
To listen and have a realistic conversation about your financial life. While we might be approached for help with a specific financial issue, because we take the time to get to know people it can often lead to us looking at other areas of an individual’s financial life. However good your current financial arrangements are, we can help you make your money work even harder.
You can trust us…
To answer your queries. When you come to Rouse Limited you have a whole team working with you, which means whatever your query, someone will answer the phone and will always get back to you. Sometimes we can all get overwhelmed by the amount of information we’re exposed to - this is particularly true if it’s a relentless stream of bad news. But, as with many aspects of life, taking a step back to look at the wider picture can give a different perspective. Having a trusted, neutral ear can help prevent biases or emotional reactions to market turmoil and keep you focused on your long-term goals.
You can trust us…
To create a financial plan that works for you throughout your life. We won’t just put a plan in place and let it roll on. As part of our service provision we regularly review your financial arrangements to make sure they remain on track for you. We use our knowledge and expertise alongside a range of tools we have, such as lifetime cash flow forecasting, which can help you see how your spending, saving and other financial decisions will impact your future goals.
To keep you informed. We will give you timely reminders of what action is needed, for example at the end of the tax year. We will remind you to check you’ve made the most of all your allowances and will keep you abreast of changes in financial services that could affect your wealth management.
You can trust us…
To look after your family, because we take the view that we’re not just looking after you and your money but your dependants as well. As forward planning is the key to managing most aspects of your life, we also provide systems to help you keep everything in order for your loved ones, should you fall ill or die.
You can trust us…
To work with other professional firms that share our core values and approach to our clients’ wellbeing. This provides the opportunity to increase efficiency across all elements of our comprehensive service.
Working collaboratively with accountancy firms and solicitors provides added value, and gives you access to the most effective tax and legal advice as part of your lifetime financial planning.
We can be the springboard for all your financial planning needs and you can trust us to be with you every step of the way to a brighter future.
Trust, impartiality, communication, and support: it all creates the Rouse difference and the added value of financial advice
The Rouse difference
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
CHARTING THE COURSE THE STORY OF YACHTING
Tim Blackman started sailing in the 1960s as a small boy. Since then, he has been a worthy custodian of five classic yachts; his latest, Kalea, is now available for charter. Here, Tim takes a look at the world of yachting.
Yacht. Few words carry such cachet, such a sense of prestige and classiness. Say “Yacht” and immediately people’s minds have moved off to warm blue seas and exclusive lifestyles, villas, crystal bays, and champagne-sipping bronzed bodies.
Yachting is somehow synonymous with a bygone era when life could seem more relaxed, beautiful, and less rushed. Yachting evokes a feeling of pleasure, and even those who are not keen on the sea or boats could be tempted to imagine themselves doing some yachting.
The cachet of the yacht stems from where it all started. After King Charles I’s execution in 1649 following his imprisonment in Carisbrooke Castle, the forces of his son, Charles II, were defeated by Cromwell’s army at the Battle of Worcester in 1651. Charles fled to exile in the Netherlands,
where he found the Dutch sailed small boats called jachts, not for fishing or for carrying cargo, but just for the fun of sailing. Nine years later, on his return to Britain as King, Charles remained so captivated by these jachts that the Dutch East India Company presented him with the 100-ton Mary.
His enthusiasm for the vessel was such that he and his brother James, the Duke of York who would become King on Charles II’s death in 1685, ordered the building of two more jachts, almost identical, the Catherine and the Anne. 1st October 1661 saw the earliest recorded contest of yacht racing as the small ships sailed from Greenwich to Gravesend and back. To most of the courtiers aboard the yachts, the occasion was a magnificent floating party; to anyone watching from shore, it appeared to be a fabulous royal pageant.
Words Tim Blackman
As the courtiers and wealthy business magnates of the land caught the bug, huge and beautiful yachts were built, sparing no expense, with scores of fully paid crew, and so yacht racing became established. The yachts were so expensive to build, crew, and maintain, that when the earliest yacht club was founded, it was estimated that only 100 men in the country could afford it, and so it became known as the Sport of Kings.
Yachting continued through the centuries, but why make them from wood? It was simply the only material available to build boats, especially after the World Wars. Every yacht was completely hand built by a team of skilled craftsmen; every piece of wood hand crafted to fit in its position. As you look around a classic wooden yacht, the skill and craftsmanship are evident everywhere. With the exception of some early racing boats, rarely were more than two or three
boats built the same. Yachts built of wood are also infinitely repairable, they are entirely recyclable and – as it turns out – are biodegradable too!
The 1960s were the heyday for wooden yacht building – twenty years after the war – but it would end almost as quickly as it started in the early 1970s with new production methods, led by the use of fibreglass, enabling boats which required far less maintenance to be manufactured more quickly in greater numbers. Within a few years there was an explosion of sailing
boat mass production. This was particularly beneficial for sailing boat racing where yachts could be identical, but at the same time this began to erode the individuality of classic yachts.
The ethos and lifestyle engendered by these gleaming wooden beauties continued to capture the imagination of sailors all around the world. Owning a lovely classic yacht set one apart a bit; it showed you could give time to looking after something beautiful, that you bought into the lifestyle it provided.
KALEA
Tim found Kalea in Rome. A 21m 1964 Italian ketch, she was tired, neglected, and on the edge of not being viable to rescue. But beneath the sad decay and the inevitable work, her potential beauty was still evident, so she was brought to Cowes for restoration.
Cowes is interesting. Its long association with the ‘Sport of Kings’ has earned it a reputation for being the cradle of yachting. Wherever you are around the world, amongst sailors Cowes is revered. The knowledge that one comes from Cowes elicits responses like “I’ve never been, but it’s my ambition to go to Cowes and sail the waters of the Solent.” Or, “I raced in the Fastnet Race in ’83, I so want to go back.” It really is the yachting holy grail.
And so it was the best place to bring Kalea for the work. Shipwrights came aboard and admired the way she had been constructed and were able to
accomplish the repair work in the same manner. Special fittings needing to be replaced could be handmade in Cowes workshops and all the systems overhauled by marine specialists.
There is no better sight than a yacht like Kalea anchored in a crystal-clear bay a short distance from a busy beach. From the beach perspective, you watch people relaxing on deck, some sunbathing, others in deck chairs under the sun awning, with the occasional splash as someone jumps in to cool off. From the yacht perspective, you are enjoying the same environment as the beachgoers, without the crowd and the noise and with the added vista of the town or the mountains behind the beach. And after the day is through, beachgoers trudge back up to the car park, while the Kalea will up anchor and gently sail away.
If you want to read more about Kalea, or would be interested in chartering her, go to kaleaclassicyacht.com
Words and Research: James Rayner
Illustrations by: Lauren Fry
In the summer of 1907, the steam yacht Ivy, owned by the Protectorate of Southern Nigeria, sailed into the shipyard of J. Samuel White at East Cowes to undergo a refit. Unusually for the time, the crew (except the captain and a few of the most senior ranking officers) were exclusively black West Africans, with up to sixty men heading down the gangplank and onto the Island’s shores – a place they’d remain for almost half a year. From bicycle accidents to cricket matches, they certainly didn’t go unnoticed by the locals, but now, over a century later, their visit is all but forgotten.
The S.Y. Ivy’s story began twelve years earlier, in the yard of Earle’s Shipbuilding in Hull, where the ‘handsomely modelled’
yacht was constructed, based on designs drawn up by Messrs J. Thompson and Son of London. Built for the government of the Niger Coast Protectorate (soon to be renamed Southern Nigeria), it was tested on the choppy waters of the North Sea in August 1895 before making its way to the capital and East India Docks where it would pick up its crew.
It seems that before the ship even left UK waters, it would be manned by African sailors, one of whom, a fourteen-year-old boy named Johnson, would pass away from a ‘clot of blood on the heart’ before it was even time to set sail. During the inquest, held at Poplar, Royal Navy Commander Frederick George Dundas was asked, ‘Are there no white men aboard?’ to which he replied, ‘Only myself.’ Every single sailor employed on the Ivy was said to be ‘Kroomen’, an ethnic group from modern-day Sierra Leone and Liberia, now more commonly known as ‘Kru’ – a people renowned for their sailing and navigational abilities during the 19th century.
The Story of the Isle of Wight’s Connection to Nigerian Steam Yacht ‘Ivy’
By October 1895, the S.Y. Ivy had steamed its way down to the coast of Nigeria, where over the next few years it would be involved in some of the most dramatic events in the region’s history. In 1897, it brought news to the town of Bonny that Consul James Robert Phillips and his entourage had been ambushed and massacred on their way to depose the Ọba (king) of Benin, Ovonramwen.
Following the resulting British attack and looting of Benin City, the Ivy would also take onboard the overthrown king and transport him to his place of exile – Essien Town on the eastern coast of Nigeria – where he would stay until his death in 1914.
In 1900 and again in 1904, the yacht returned to Hull for ‘extensive alteration’
with many of the crew staying at a lodging house at 55 Salthouse Lane. The Hull Daily Mail reported on the crew of African men who ‘promenade the streets daily’ as well as the three sailors who stepped in to work as waiters for the annual banquet of the Royal Yorkshire Yacht Club at Bridlington, which was said to be ‘ablaze with light and colour.’
However, when more work was needed on the yacht in 1907, this time they set coordinates for the Isle of Wight and the shipyard of J. Samuel White.
Dropping anchor at East Cowes in early June, the crew of the S.Y. Ivy disembarked and crossed the River Medina to Cowes to settle into their makeshift home – an empty storeroom. Deemed too overcrowded by a local medical officer, within days the
Ovonramwen Nogbaisi, the Ọba (or ruler) of the Kingdom of Benin with his two wives. The S.Y. Ivy took them from Benin to spend their exile at Essien Town on Nigeria’s eastern coast
Some of the Ivy’s crew pictured in 1904 – one of whom could be Every Day whose bicycle was crushed by a horse and carriage in East Cowes in 1907. Documents show he was on the ship in 1904 when the Ivy docked at Hull and a newspaper reports that Every Day had his trousers stolen at the Salthouse Lane lodging house.
Native songs and dances considerbale astonished the English portion of the audience
council was encouraged to house the black sailors in ‘better conditions in a less crowded neighbourhood.’ Two weeks later, they considered an application from Mr. Bruce Atkey to temporarily use his stores as sleeping accommodation for fifty-three men and two boys from the Ivy, however, his application was rejected (and then rejected a second time when he applied again soon after).
Wherever the crew eventually found to stay, they soon settled into the community and were freely mixing with the locals. In July, Cowes St. Mary’s Guild cricket team travelled to the West Wight village of Shalfleet for a match, with a ‘coloured batsman’ from the Ivy amongst their team.
Named C. Luke, he was apparently the ‘object of much interest’ and ‘showed that he was something of a cricketer by his contribution of 10 to the Guild’s total’ –although it wasn’t enough, as Shalfleet still won the game. In early October, a ‘native officer’ from the Ivy got himself initiated as a member of the local branch of Foresters in Cowes, and later in the month, members of the crew gave a concert at the Victoria Hall – where the ‘native songs and dances considerably astonished the English portion of the audience.’
Despite the apparent astonishment, people of African and Caribbean origin weren’t unusual in Cowes and had lived and worked in the town since at least the Georgian era.
Black servant Thomas Siras called Cowes his home at the end of the 1700s and his two children, Thomas and Elizabeth, were potentially some of the first black or mixedrace Islanders to be born here. African writer and abolitionist Olaudah Equiano spent six months in the town in 1760, and at least some of the Kru sailors who first took S.Y. Ivy to Nigeria in 1895 had been waiting at Cowes before Commander Dundas collected them, and then travelled with them to board the ship at London. That said, the arrival of up to sixty black sailors at one time, as the Ivy came for her 1907 ‘refit and overhaul’, could have been the largest group of non-white visitors the Island had ever seen.
The S.Y. Ivy – from a photo taken by early Nigerian photographer Johnathan Adagogo Green
By mid-October, the works to S.Y. Ivy were nearing completion – but two final events, reported in the local papers, give us the clearest insight yet into who the sailors were that worked on board. The first was a fight between John Banigo (described as a deck-boy) and Christian Emmanuel Luke (an engineer and possibly the same ‘C. Luke’ who had played cricket at Shalfleet back in July). Luke had been cycling ‘to his work at the Yard’ at 6:30 on a Saturday morning when Banigo began the fight. The case was later taken to court, where another crew member acted as interpreter. What makes this information significant is that it provides a traceable surname of African etymology. The name Banigo is today held by a number of prominent Nigerians, which also hints that the Kru sailors who first worked on board may have been replaced with local sailors once the S.Y. Ivy had reached Southern Nigeria.
The second event was a court case that involved a sailor named Every Day whose new bicycle was crushed by a horse and carriage ferrying ‘excursionists’ from Osborne House to their ships moored up at East Cowes. Every Day had only bought his bicycle two weeks earlier for six guineas but on one day in August, a ‘wagonette’ belonging to Mr A. T. Ivens seemingly clipped the bicycle, knocking it under the rear wheels of the carriage, leaving it ‘practically smashed.’ Other sailors gave evidence in court, including Fine Metal and Hector Emejulu (another surname found mostly in Nigeria). Local witnesses Bessie Mary Young of Mill Hill and Lionel James Morey from the council’s ‘gas supply showrooms’ both supported Every Day’s version of events, however, the judge chose to side with the evidence of the carriage owner and a Brighton-based tourist who said the bicycle fell of its own accord.
By the end of October 1907, we hear no more about the S.Y. Ivy in the local papers, meaning it had probably set sail and charted a course back to Nigeria. No doubt the black sailors made a lasting impression on the Islanders they left behind: the people they played cricket with, the people who watched their dances, listened to their songs, supported them in court, inducted them at Foresters Hall, and heard them speaking their Yoruba, Ibo or Ijaw languages. There are quite likely many more stories to reveal from their time on the Isle of Wight, even regal ones, as a 1908 article from the Liverpool Journal of Commerce vaguely suggests – ‘[when the Ivy came for repair] she lay for some time off Cowes, and was visited by the King, and many other distinguished persons, who took a deep interest in the crew of 60 natives, representing five different tribes.’ It seems that, so far, we’ve only just scratched the surface.
Island Stories: Derek Sandy
This issue we are revisiting an episode of the Island Stories podcast with an Islander who has been delighting reggae fans at parties and events across the Island and beyond for more than 20 years.
In this interview, Derek tells podcast host Harriet Hadfield how he once supported Bob Marley and the Wailers, battled drug addiction in his home country of Trinidad and Tobago, and his big plans for the Island’s Got Talent competition.
Derek talks about his most famous song: ‘Welcome to the Isle of Wight’ – even giving podcast listeners a little a capella rendition – as well as revealing his real name.
“ I like to bring Caribbean vibes to the Isle of Wight ”
Derek Sandy
On arriving on the Island:
“The day I arrived on the Island, it was in November, and it was like a ghost town. It was a bit cold as well and I thought ‘oh no, what have I done?’… But I stuck with it, and it worked out well.”
On private parties:
“The Island, we are full of lovely beaches here and people always having a BBQ, a Caribbean day, and I’m the man for the job! Most of my work is private parties. There couldn’t be a better destination for it – the Isle of Wight!”
On Britain’s Got Talent:
“I didn’t enter, they called me, because they know the song ‘Welcome to the Isle of Wight’. They wanted me to sing that song… I didn’t want to do it at first because sometimes they can make you look bad –they make you what they want you to be.”
Hosted by Harriet Hadfield Produced by Alex Warren
“ I believe I am part of the Island, and the Island is part of me ”
Derek Sandy
Derek’s 5 Island Things:
Favourite place to eat: The Hungry Bear, Brading
Best place for a walk: Appley Tower
Island Charity: Aspire, Ryde
Island Activity: Love Mondays
Loves most about the Island? The people
To listen search ‘Island Stories’ wherever you get your podcasts from or use the QR code.
EXPERIENCE
LIKE NO OTHER Book now
Step aboard an iconic landmark in the heart of the Solent. A DINING
