Issue 117 Isle of Wight Ramblers 8.2012

News and information from the Isle of ALKWight walk walkTALK is sponsored by Area and Groups THE GOVERNMENT RECENTLY announced in the House of Lords that it intends having a consultation about the future Wight Coast Trail. This is now on their website www. defra.gov.uk/consult/2012/07/24/ iow-access-mcaa/. The consultation will finish on Friday 16th November. The All members are urged to use this opportunity to forward their views Island’s to DEFRA. There are two questions: coastal the first is “Should the Isle of Wight be included?”; the second is path “Should it receive priority?” If you a don’t have a computer, please write to DEFRA at: Coast and Access Implementation Team, DEFRA, Zone 1/09, Temple Quay House, 2 The step Square, Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 6EB. The IW Ramblers has been campaigning for a truly coastal path, closer as part of the Marine and Coastal Our campaign for a Path Act 2009, which includes the complete Isle of Wight provision of an English Coastal Path. coast path has moved Plans have been rolled out to complete a large part of the up a gear. Here, David National Trail by 2017. Islands are Howarth gives a brief not automatically included and we insight into progress have submitted a case for the Isle of Wight. You can find details of our campaign on our website www. iowramblers.com/page17.htm We are urging the government to provide a trail around our Island within the next three years. This would be not only a big boost to the tourist economy but also a unique opportunity for landowners to increase business opportunities by providing the facilities that will be needed to service an increase in the number of visitors. The IW Council has recently been awarded a £4 million grant ALSO IN THIS ISSUE... for sustainable tourism. This will Have wheels, will ramble include the provision of new cycle routes and long distance paths with Cowes and the royals all IT support needed by tourists. For those in peril The new paths should be available Donate-a-gate in 2014. This should make the Island Moov’ it! one of the best tourist locations for Leading the way walkers and cyclists. The provision of a Wight Coast Trail would be the Autumn/winter walks programme jewel in the crown of this project. www.iowramblers.com walkTALK Welcome... SunSun shinesshines EverEver thoughtthought you’dyou’d likelike toto Donate-a-Gate?Donate-a-Gate? ... to walkTALK, the newsletter from the forfor visitorvisitor The Isle of Wight Isle of Wight Ramblers. If you’re new to If you’re looking for Ramblers Donate-a-Gate , or if you’ve not seen walkTALK Louise scheme is supported before, why not join us? Benefits include: Louise a novel and inspiring by these Island •260 led walks on the Island each year; way to... suppliers: •talks and discussions about Island features and heritage; •walking holidays; • commemorate a special event; •national Walk magazine and walkTALK; • remember a loyal family pet; •discounts from leading outdoor suppliers • mark the life of a loved one; (eg Cotswold; Blacks) and HF Holidays; Marcus Matthews • promote your organisation... T 07733 042 685 •support for an organisation campaigning E [email protected] for greater access to the countryside. ...then Donate-a-Gate! W redhillfarmdesigns.co.uk Joining us couldn’t be easier. And if you pay For lovers of walking and the by direct debit, there’s £10 off the price! countryside, a commemorative GATES Just go to www.iowramblers.com and gate is an opportunity to supplied and fitted, click on the membership link. create a memorial that will provide any size, anywhere improved access to fellow walkers A WARM WELCOME to new members: NEIL HOLLAND for years to come. Main Group IN EARLY APRIL, Walks Programme three months on the Island whilst she 07511 564810 Mrs A M Arney Sandown Co-ordinator Carol Hamilton led a walk and her husband were renovating a A donation of £460 will finance Mr John Senior Somerset called The Chale Challenge which took property in Ryde. A Ramblers member, a new footpath gate which will Mr Christopher Blows Ventnor in the Pepperpot and Hoy Monument. she made contact via the website incorporate an oak plaque at a Mrs L Marriott Freshwater Although there were 24 participants, and joined Carol on numerous walks, suitable Island location. Mr A Marriott Freshwater the weather gods did not oblige, so soon becoming a firm friend to all she For more information, call Mike Ms S Parker Bembridge unfortunately there are no pictures met. Carol says Louise has regretfully Slater on 752997 or log on to Ms P Long Freshwater from the walk. But when Carol recce’d now moved on, but judging by her www.iowramblers.com Mr C Western Wroxall it during a brief burst of summer in expression, she certainly seems to Telephone 01983 741207 Mrs C Austin Wroxall March, the weather was glorious. Our have enjoyed her stay! www.countyfencing.co.uk Mrs C Ainsworth Norton picture shows Louise Humphries on St • See page 6 for a further exploration of Mr A Bradley Norton Catherine’s Down. She was spending this stunning area of the Island. Mrs G Byerley Ryde Mr S Duffin Shanklin DAVID blue sea and Wight Sole Walks Mr L Thorne Niton HOWARTH’S And the sky, which also Mrs L Thorne Niton RECENT Photo- has some cloud Mr F Bowen Ventnor graphy Walk winner is... interest. Autumn/ Winter 2012-2013 Mrs S Beardsmore Seaview brought forward Mike wins a bottle For younger ramblers – friendly welcome guaranteed! Check the website for latest details: www.wightsole.org.uk Mr G Bowen Ryde a wide selection of Saumur to toast Tues 23rd Aug Seafront Stroll on the roads unless going to pub afterwards. Sun 11th Nov Tennyson Down the Other Way toughest hills on the Island (or so I’ve been told of pictures from Mr J Catchpole Alverstone his success. Meet Yaverland car park at 6pm for a stroll to Walk over the downs and along Ferns bottom! Round after the last time). About 10 miles. Bring a Mr A Entwhistle Ventnor a group of very Shanklin and back with a stop for a glass of pop 8 miles. Allow 4 hours. Packed lunch. Possible Meet in Freshwater at the foot of Tennyson packed lunch. Allow 5 hours. GR530817 Mandy Bangerter Ms H Meyer Brading enthusiastic somewhere on the way. About 4 miles, 2 hours. drink in Crown afterwards. GR 456829 Down (by public toilets) at 10.30am GR for a 12 Tracey 867603 Mrs A Murphy Shanklin snappers.There was worthy Gary 299511 Gary 299511 mile walk. Bring a packed lunch. Allow 5 hours. Sun 9th Dec Trains, Planes and Automobiles Mrs S Belfitt Shanklin were 64 entries runner-up, with GR 345858 Sun 2nd Sept Brighstone to Yafford Sun 28th Oct Wroxall Downs and Hollows Meet 10.30am at Lake Common for an 8 mile Mrs G Parmenter Shanklin her creative and Toby 249629 comprising a Meet at 10.30am in the village car park behind Meet at 10.30am at Wroxall main car park for walk. Bring a packed lunch and allow 4 hours. unusual shot of Mr G Langshaw St Helens wide variety of the pub. A stroll to Yafford and back along the an 8 mile walk. Bring a packed lunch. Allow 4 Sun 25th Nov Godshill Killer Walk GR587839 Mr D Wolfe Newport subjects and styles. reflections in a coast. 6.5 miles. Allow 3 hours. Packed Lunch. hours. GR 552798 Tougher than the Chillerton Challenge! Meet Kerrie 07883040120 Mrs B Wolfe Newport Worthy winner stream. There are Possible drink in Three Bishops afterwards. GR Martin 867603 10.30am in the public car park for a set of the Sun 23rd Dec Brading and Christmas Drink Mrs L Griffiths East Cowes strong diagonals 427827 was Mike Slater, Walk Mrs C McKarracher Cowes contrasting with Dave and Suzanne 282322 with his picture of Meet 10.30am at Brading Station for a 7 mile natural organic Wightsole Freshwater Bay. Sun 16th Sept Arreton Barns Amble walk and then enjoy a Christmas drink at a Miss Diane Huskisson Newport forms. Meet at 10.30am for a walk to Rookley, local hostelry afterwards. Allow 3.5 hours, plus The chalk path Gatcombe and round. 13 miles. Allow 6 hours. The focal point is drinking time! GR 609868 leads the eye Packed lunch. GR 533866 Alison 810220 into the shot, with the red coat – with Alison 810220 a neat visual pun of human interest Sun 30th Sept Lymington and New Forest Walk in the form of the the photographer Want to be on our email list for on the bridge him- Meet in Yarmouth to catch 10.30am ferry to walkers leading Lymington. 9-10 miles. Packed lunch. Greater walks? self being photo- to focal point of than 6 hours parking required (£6.50) or park at Contact Gary 299511 or HYPERLINK graphed by Mandy. the Bay and cliffs. Bouldnor and walk into Yarmouth. Hope to get “mailto:[email protected]” [email protected] There is good Her prize is her the 1645 ferry back. GR 353898 Total membership Chris 07919 893763 for the IW Ramblers colour with the choice of any of Lost or running late? 552 contrast of white the IW Ramblers’ Sun 14th Oct Shorwell Stroll Gary’s mobile number is 07804 856249 Main Group – 520 Wightsole – 31 Not in a group – 1 chalk cliffs against range of walking Meet 10.30am at the Crown Inn. Please park 2 walkTALK www.iowramblers.com www.iowramblers.com walkTALK 3 Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2012

START Bazaar and Promenade Concert was held in the grounds with the proceeds going to the National Hospital for Consumption in Ventnor (now the Botanic Garden). This was an impressive gathering and guests included the Imperial Prince and Princess of Prussia accompanied by Lady Churchill and many others in Society, who entered the Park by the Castle Hill (‘Nunnery’) Steps. Royal Yacht Squadron Balls were also held there in the 1880s, attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales. and the Pass an ice house and war memorial damaged Cowes in the Second World War and then to the right of St Mary’s Church, the tower of which was MOST OF US enjoy walking in the countryside with designed by John Nash. Follow the perimeter distant views and perhaps stunning coastal scenery. And of the church to reach its entrance in Church while the Island is blessed with a high density of , Road. when you look at the map of Cowes you will find a of Cowes. Pass to the left of the Royal Yacht Go on to Birmingham Road The Doric lodge, by the church on the left, royalsshortage of footpaths with a circular walk correspondingly Squadron. See Alexander House (a former chapel) and was also built by John Nash. difficult to devise. Of course, walkers are excluded from a fine Methodist Chapel of 1901. Rebuilt in the 1850s by Anthony Salvin, Go down Church Road and turn left into crossing the Osborne and Barton estates and forced to it is the home of world yachting. Along Here turn around and pass Beken’s Union Road with its masonic hall of 1846. follow busy roads. But across both East Cowes and Cowes with seven other yacht clubs, a full annual photographic shop - by royal appointment. Keep right into Sun Hill passing Sun Hill footpaths are a rare commodity. programme of events is organised. Retrace your steps down Shooter’s Hill and House. Fortunately, this part of the Island is a rich source of Continue on to The Parade – keep to the left go left into Cross Street near a car park and This part of Old Cowes has some our heritage, and much can be seen by following a and pass a Chinese restaurant. Turn right by the Painters Arms Pub. Turn left into St interesting and pleasant architecture. No 32 circular route through Cowes. The map shows a three- into the narrow Watch House Lane and pass Mary’s Road. Pass a green area on the left is the Foresters’ Friendly Society 1865. mile suggested walk with so much to see. But beware with a closed tunnel, which was the route of The Union Pub (one of our Friendly At the bottom of the hill, turn left into High – you may succumb to the temptations of café, pub or the railway. At the road junction, turn right Pubs). Turn left into the High Street. Pass Street. restaurant, as well as being drawn into the specialist into Victoria Road by Cowes Baptist Church. the Sir Max Aitken Museum – in the famous Here there is a fine late Georgian façade, shops that abound. Go to the top of the hill and turn right into pink building, The Prospect. and a customs warehouse (now Quba sails). Park Road. Turn left into Ward Avenue. Whilst Cowes is now best known as a yachting port, This magnificent 18th Century sail maker’s Cross to the right of the road and follow the Turn left up Market Hill. in the 19th century, many of the world’s statesmen loft, where Britannia’s mainsail was made, grassed area half right to Northwood House Here, on the right, there are almshouses, passed through the harbour to visit Queen Victoria at was acquired and restored by Sir Max Built by the Ward family, Northwood Ward’s Cottages, for retired servants from Osborne House. Henry VIII built a castle in 1539 at Aitken in 1947. Today, with its traditional House and Park once formed part of the Northwood House. Also, further on the the harbour mouth, which was converted to the Royal splendour, the building boasts Sir Max Mount Edgcumbe estate. In 1793, Mount right are Macnamara almshouses of 1881. Yacht Squadron in 1850’s. This is the home of world Aitken’s personal collection of nautical Edgcumbe property, comprising a house Turn right into Castle Road to a junction by yachting, being the oldest and most prestigious of the artefacts. Sir John William Maxwell “Max” called Belle Vue, “a house, two coach houses, an archway. Take the track, Trinity Church eight yacht clubs in Cowes. Both King Edward VII Aitken, 2nd Baronet, DSO, DFC (15 four stables and four gardens”, was bought Lane and just after the church turn right and King George V sailed the 122 foot Britannia. February 1910 – 30 April 1985), formerly by George Ward and renamed Northwood down some steps. Turn left along Queen’s More recently, the Duke of Edinburgh has been a 2nd Baron Beaverbrook, was a British Park. George Ward was friends with Road which rejoins the . Continue frequent visitor to Cowes week. Conservative politician and press baron, the Join David Howarth on a circular trail around John Nash who is buried in East Cowes to your starting point. So let’s take this virtual town walk and I will point son of Max Aitken, 1st Baron Beaverbrook. this internationally famous sailing town, looking out a few features as we go. church. By 1858 William George Ward of Continue along the High Street. Northwood House was said to own four- at its heritage and royal connections From the lion sculpture at Egypt point, follow the The number of Edwardian façades reflects fifths of Northwood Parish – which at that Main picture Jolliffe’s, once a shoe shop, now esplanade with the sea on your left. Pass Rosetta a cafe Description A town walk, looking at some of the interesting architectural and historical the heyday of royal yachting – see façade time covered the whole of West Cowes, Cottage. Inset,top, left to right The royal warrant at features. Distance Three miles. Start Egypt Point. Car parking Free along Egypt Hill or above Henri Lloyd and The Fountain Hotel Northwood, Gurnard and stretched as far Beken’s; Plaque at Rosetta Cottage; Stained in bays along the seafront at Queens Road (pay in season). Access Information Mainly This is where Randolph Churchill met his future (1803) Greek decorative motifs. as Thorness and Parkhurst Forest, as well as glass window at Jolliffe’s Inset, bottom, left to right Princes Green; The pavement walking, some hills. Refreshments Pubs, hotels and cafes in and around Cowes. wife, Jennie Jerome, at Cowes Week 1883 – Continue up Shooters Hill the remarkable Weston Manor in Totland. Winston Churchill was born in November 1884. Fountain; Sun Hill; Rosetta Cottage; Quba Sails; Toilets Princes Green (in season only). GPS Users Waypoints for this walk can be found at Look out for Jolliffes art deco shop which Northwood House was at the centre of late 1920s Baroque facade of the former Lloyds Bank our web site http://www.iowramblers.com/page5.htm There is a pavement plaque opposite the cottage. was originally a shoe shop. Victorian high society. In 1871 a Grand Pass left of Princes Green and an information board which describes the historical context

4 walkTALK www.iowramblers.com www.iowramblers.com walkTALK 5 For

Throughout history, life on the Isle of Wight has been defined by the sea. No wonder that, those in one small area on our southern shore, in the Island can boast a trio of lighthouses spanning nearly seven hundred years. And the peril best way to see them? On foot, of course...

n a benign spring day it is a privilege to take to the to the greening landscape. Yet it is these same coasts into the west, storm clouds gather coast path to see all that this spectacular corner of that have witnessed hundreds of shipwrecks over the offshore, and the mood shifts as the theO Island has to offer. Big skies and expansive, roof-of- centuries, creating a wild and terrifying reputation sea – grey and threatening now in the-world views, sky lark song and gulls shearing and among seafarers in days gone by. And though it may the face of the approaching storm – boils on dipping on the wind, the acid yellow of young gorse and be a true pleasure drinking in the views on such a day, the unforgiving reefs and rocks of Chale Bay the first sea pinks providing colourful counterpoint it is a very different story when the rising wind swings far below.

The Salt Cellar Main picture IF YOU STAND on the summit of St is from the precise moment the St Marie say mass for the souls of shipwrecked The Pepperpot. Four stout Catherine’s Down and allow your mind struck Atherfield Ledge on that day seven sailors. In 1328, a year after Walter Fast forward a mere four hundred and fifty buttresses were added in the to swing back into the distant past, to the hundred years ago that local efforts to de Godeton died, the lighthouse was years and turn from the Pepperpot to the 18th century by Sir Richard nearby ruin, a short distance to the east. Worsley of Appuldurcombe, year 1313, it really isn’t hard to imagine prevent shipwrecks sprung. This marks completed. who feared the tower might the scene. the beginning of our Island lighthouse Known today as the Pepperpot, and These are the remains of a lighthouse collapse. A vessel is running up-Channel before a story, which echoes down the centuries sometimes as the Chantry, this early begun in 1785 by the forerunner of Trinity Inset above, left to right House. Its construction was apparently On the approach to the summit; gusty wind, driving irrevocably towards and can still be traced today. example of lighthouse technology was The abandoned 1785 Atherfield Ledge. She is theSt Marie, one St Catherine’s Oratory built on the site of an earlier oratory abandoned on account of the fogs that tower now houses modern of a small fleet chartered by merchants of The fate of the St Marie may well be dedicated to St Catherine of Alexandria, regularly shroud the hill, so perhaps the communications equipment; fact that it was started at all represented a The Pepperpot stands at the Duchy of Aquitaine. She is carrying a fodder for winter fireside yarns but it is a on the very summit of the Down. around 800 feet above sea triumph of hope over experience. cargo of 174 casks of white wine and in well-known tale on the Island, and one for Only the tower remains today, but level. spite of the frantic efforts of her crew, she which there is documentary evidence. there is clear evidence of the roof of an Whatever the reasoning behind it, this is about to strike the Ledge. Her timbers The story goes that Walter de Godeton, adjacent building abutting the tower. A lighthouse was never completed. Today are no match for implacable black rock, the local landowner whose land extended light was maintained here for over two the stone shell forms an enclosure for jagged and malevolent, and in a welter to the coast at Chale Bay, claimed the hundred years until the Dissolution of the modern communications equipment of foam and splintering wood, amidst the wine as “wreck of sea”. But this was Monasteries in 1538, after which it fell into – an appropriate (if disfiguring) panic and chaos of crashing spars, and disputed, and when word of Walter’s disuse. marriage of old and new. with her decks awash, the unfortunate St misdeed reached the Church courts No-one will ever know how many wrecks The shell is known nowadays Marie is lost... – for the wine belonged to a religious the light prevented, but as the Down is either as the Salt Cellar or the Just another wreck story, you might community – they fined him the sum of so often wreathed in mist, it must be Mustard Pot. This will depend think. The kind of hoary tale that’s been 2271/2 marks. assumed that its success was probably on who you talk to! repeated down the years by leathery old Unfortunately for Walter, the matter did limited. Yet it set in train a process that The scene is now set for salts, sitting in the chimney corner of any not end there. He was threatened with takes us right up to the present day. perhaps the most famous back o’ the Wight hostelry you care to excommunication – effectively banning So, when you climb the hill and pause for wreck in Island history – mention. him from worship, and his hoped-for breath, take a moment to run your hands that of the Clarendon in 1836. But as you stand at your vantage point on salvation. He was ordered to atone for his over the weathered and lichened stone of This event sent shockwaves the Down, the bay a vast bowl of blue far crimes by building a lighthouse on the this ancient tower – a silent witness to through English society and led to below, with signs of springtime all around “Montem de Cheal” and to provide for a Walter de Godeton and the wreck of the the creation of the last in our trio of and danger far away, remember that it priest who would maintain the light and St Marie. lighthouses – St Catherine’s.

Words and pictures: Stephen Williams

6 walkTALK www.iowramblers.com www.iowramblers.com walkTALK 7 St Catherine’s Lighthouse driven past the Needles and along the St Catherine’s – squat, purposeful, with a southern shores of the Island. cluster of associated buildings enclosed At dawn the following morning she by a perimeter wall – has stood on this struck at Blackgang and within minutes spot since 1840. Its powerful beam was wrecked beyond recognition, her shines out into the English Channel weakened hull unable to withstand as a stern warning to stay clear of the the pressure of storm force wind and treacherous southern shores of the enormous seas. Isle of Wight. It was built after a public Everyone on board, with the exception outcry at the loss of life of possibly the Moov’ it! of three of the crew, was either drowned Moov’ it! Island’s most famous wreck – that or crushed by the ship’s timbers. The of the West Indiaman, the Clarendon survivors owed their lives to the bravery which was driven to its dreadful fate of local fisherman John Wheeler, who, at the base of the cliffs at Blackgang amidst the turmoil, tied a rope around Chine in October 1836. his waist, entered the surf and dragged In August that year the Clarendon set them back to shore. Many victims of the sail from Basseterre in St Kitts with a tragedy are buried in the graveyard at cargo of sugar, molasses and rum and Chale church. was carrying 11 passengers and 17 The depth of feeling the wreck stirred up crew. In worsening weather on the in early Victorian society eventually lead evening of 10th October, to a new lighthouse being constructed. she attempted to make The light first shone out on March 25th for the shelter of the 1840, across those same tempestuous Solent but owing to the waters that claimed the Clarendon, four violence of the wind, was Walk directions years before. There are Main picture St Catherine’s Light from the coast path many ways Inset The wreck of the Clarendon, from an engraving by Brannon to see the Island’s trio of What should you do if you’re suddenly surrounded by lighthouses, but a mob of boisterous cattle, while innocently enjoying this walk begins on a walk in the countryside? walkTALK asked Island the edge of Niton, by the football ground magistrate and rambler Carol Hamilton to investigate on the Blackgang road. IN AUGUST LAST year, I was out on my Council. She informed that there had been Footpath NT33 leads uphill and own recce’ing a walk I had been asked to no prosecutions on the Island (she did not soon joins the coast path, where lead for the October Walking Festival (the say how far back her records were). She a turn to the west will lead you original walks leader had developed health referred me to a useful paper produced by to Blackgang viewpoint. From here problems and was unable to lead). I was on (fancy that!) summarising there is obvious access to the footpath BS21 to the south of Limerstone. the statute, common and case law on the Main picture These inquisitive Jerseys mobbed Pepperpot and Salt Cellar. I climbed a stile ready to follow the hedge subject. My other enquiry was to “Walking Carol on a walk near Limerstone line with the intention of reaching another Environment” at Ramblers’ HQ. They Above Ramblers encounter a highland bull at This route also takes in a detour stile set in the hedge on the far side of the referred me to the same paper, which can Wroxall to the Hoy Monument at the far field. All of a sudden I was spotted by a end of the be downloaded from the Internet – www. herd of cows ( Jerseys I think). This mob ramblers.org.uk/Ramblers%20Association/ plateau beyond couple of steps towards it, waving your arms then charged towards me. Within seconds I cattle.pdf and shouting firmly Gore Down and was surrounded, and although they jostled The Ramblers also provided the following St Catherine’s, me, they did not appear aggressive, in fact • Above all, do not put yourself at risk. If advice on encountering cattle whilst out with a return I felt they were just being curious and you feel threatened, find another way round, walking. (It would appear appropriate to via the several friendly. I had to push them out of the way, returning to the original path as soon as horses also). footpaths near before striding purposely along the path possible Downcourt with the cows following behind. Good job • Be prepared for cattle to react, and, • Remember to close gates behind you when Manor Farm. they were unable to climb over the stile. where possible, walk carefully and quietly walking through fields containing livestock around them – do not split up a clustered I have been asked on several occasions This will lead you eastwards, back group. • If you are attacked or suffer a frightening down into Niton village, close to the what is the law on animals on public incident, report this to the landowner and White Lion Inn (a Walker Friendly rights of way? (Because I am a magistrate, • If you have a dog with you, keep it under the highway authority and also the HSE people assume I know the law in all its close control, but do not hang on to it Pub), which will no doubt prove and police if it is of a serious nature complexities!) I have served on the Isle of should a bull or cow start acting aggressively to be a very suitable conclusion to Wight bench for over 20 years and have • Keep the Ramblers informed of any • Cattle will usually stop before reaching this lighthouse trail. never heard of a case of an Island landowner problems you experience. you. If they do not, just carry on quietly, and * St Catherine’s is open to visitors being prosecuted for allowing a “dangerous” These handy hints could save a life! Main picture The Hoy Monument do not run on certain days in the summer. animal to roam free on a footpath. So Inset left to right A whimsical take on the Pepperpot by Island cartoonist now was the time to find out more. My • Should a bull or cow come up very closely, Carol Hamilton Cost per adult is £3.50. Rupert Besley; Not a bad lunch-stop view; Make your mind up! turn round to face it. If necessary take a www.trinityhouse.co.uk first enquiry was to Gill Joliffe at the IW Walks Programme Co-ordinator 8 walkTALK www.iowramblers.com www.iowramblers.com walkTALK 9 Hampshire RoamAbility is a group of people using mobility scooters to “ramble” in the countryside. IOW Ramblers has been working with this group to improve accessibility The Five Rings walks to the Island’s rights of way and to find new routes. Here, Di Pettet, secretary and a The Five Rings walks Leading the way THE SECOND WEEK It’s 15 years since the Island achieved an ramble leader of this group discusses the issues with David Howarth of this year’s Walking ambitious target – to have all of its public David What does Hampshire David Where do you ramble? the awareness of the group. a Gate scheme can lead to new Festival featured the Five rights of way recorded, protected, maintained Rings walks. Inspired by RoamAbility do? Di We really love the Isle of David What are the capabilities routes, but please don’t put and promoted the London Olympics, Di Hampshire RoamAbility is Wight and have our rambling of the scooters? in inaccessible kissing gates! these five, circular, 15- IN THE 1990s, the then Countryside Commission (since evolved a group of disabled ramblers holidays here. They’re very Di The largest scooters can Every year there are more mile walks were led by into Natural England) was concerned about the number of blocked who love rambling in the popular and we have to restrict tackle 1-in-4 hills on grass, footpaths that are accessible members of the Ramblers and unusable paths across England and Wales. countryside throughout the numbers to ensure that we up to eight inches’ water or to us. Sometimes the removal of one obstacle, such as the who regularly enjoy the It put forward a national strategy called year, using mobility scooters. can manage the group. The mud, sand or gravel. Batteries steps at Fort Victoria, can open Saturday long walks. Milestones which stipulated that all local Group walks are organised are good but we will allow up to a 25-mile prefer to be in the countryside up a new long route, which is About 20 people turned authorities should have all the public paths to ensure safety in numbers, walk, depending on terrain, – there are many routes that brilliant news for us. up each day, a mix of in their areas recorded by the year 2000. and we encourage families, temperature and speed. Eight friends and other walkers to are available to us. The Island Islanders and visitors from The Island complied with those national to ten miles can be achieved David Sometimes the come along too. We carry tow is a fabulous place, with varied the mainland, including an guidelines two years ahead of schedule – in easily. Scooters can travel at 4 identification and removal of ropes and help each other if scenery. The footpaths and enthusiastic and friendly 1998. This was due in no short measure to mph on pavements. The larger, just one obstacle can make batteries fail. We have some 30 bridleways are accessible a huge difference. In these group from Hillingdon the hard work and diligence of the council’s category three scooters, are members and have operated so we can get to numerous austere times this is a cost- Ramblers led by Ron Blyth rights of way team, working closely with licensed for road use where since 2009. We give advice places, whether this is effective way of managing who used to live here. The Ramblers, among other groups. This they can travel at 8 mph. on the choice of scooters for woodland, downland or on the the Rights of Way network. If After the rain of the mirrored another achievement over forty off-road rambling and the coast. For the last two years, David Accessibility is a big scooters can use these routes, previous week, the Island years earlier, in 1952, when the Island was best means of transportation our holiday has coincided with issue for you. What else can we then they become available was at its best, with among the first to produce a Definitive Map – the detailed legal whether by car or trailer. We the walking festival in May. We do to improve rights of way? to dog walkers, families with carpets of bluebells, idyllic record of public footpaths, bridleways and byways. campaign to improve access now organise festival walks for Di Just keep up the good buggies as well as the less able. views and surprisingly As rebuilding began in post-war Britain, including support for new, to the countryside, contacting disabled ramblers, along with work! We really appreciate Di Yes, it is essential that we little in the way of mud.The intensive agriculture, legislation placed a duty on local authorities local authorities and rangers as able-bodied ramblers and dogs the work of the Isle of Wight spread the word and hopefully walks had their fair share to survey and record all public paths. With military experience, appropriate, to notify problem who are very welcome to join Ramblers in producing new the Isle of Wight Council will of climbs but time for a Norton Green (pictured inset) of the county surveyor’s department, areas. our walks. This helps to raise accessible routes. The Donate embrace this work. rest too. as it was then, was seen as the ideal man for the task. As well as Thank you to Vernon for recording the routes, Norton trained parish councils to record in putting together the Five their own areas, and steered the council through the complexities of Have Rings and to leaders producing the Definitive Map. Jenny, Mike, Vernon and The foundations of the paths network that walkers and ramblers Harry for helping us enjoy enjoy today were laid by Norton Green and his colleagues, sixty some of the best walking years ago. on the Island. WITH COMIC IRREVERENCE, will Susan Oldham wheels, Island cartoonist Rupert Besley makes a pithy ramble comment on the state of Island transport... Main picture Resting below Tennyson Down Ramble round Inset A selection of images from Coppins Bridge, the Five Rings walks anyone?

SEEN BY HOWARD DUFFUS on a recent ramble near Yarmouth, where it seems they have their own methods of deterring unwelcome visitors... Ramblers, you have Main picture Di Pettet at Headon Warren, above Alum Bay been Inset Hampshire RoamAbility members enjoying the West Wight warned! 10 walkTALK www.iowramblers.com www.iowramblers.com walkTALK 11 THE BACK PAGE... THE BACK PAGE... THE BACK PAGE...THE Commemorative Stan’s still peaking – even at 85 gate for local STAN CRAWFORD, FROM Freshwater, has recently made a donation for a gate to be installed on footpath author Stephen T24a near the Needles. Misner Stan has been a keen climber and rambler for most of his life. That’s him, (pictured) in 1978 perched on top of Napes Needle near Scar Fell in the Lake District. During our chat about gate arrangements he mentioned that on two occasions during his climbing trips around the world he had parted company with the rock face and had to rely on his safety line to survive a fall! At 85 years old, Stan is still active ADVERTISEMENT with his cycling and power walking. He also participates in Walk the Wight, so a gate located at the end of this Learn outdoor skills marathon is most appropriate. Isle of Wight courses Mike Slater, Access Officer National Navigation Award Scheme - 2 day Silver course Gain confidence to plan and We want YOU! follow routes away from OVER 30 WRITERS and Please join us on the Group committee paths and tracks walkers gathered on a damp to help organise events.There are six 6th-7th October. £90 per person. day last April to celebrate the Course fee includes use of navigation meetings each year – with refreshments equipment and certificate. life of local children’s book provided. author Stephen Misner and to One day map reading course We discuss the walk programme, social Learn to use a map to follow tracks and paths open a commemorative gate activities, the summer shows, Group in Freshwater in his honour. using to easy to find features. Beginners most holidays and any current issues from welcome. 8th September. £45 per person. Stephen’s wife Barbara the Area Council and Central Office. Ideal preperation for Silver NNAS or as an introduction to map reading (pictured, centre, surrounded Your help will be greatly appreciated! GPS Training Day by friends) provided a Please contact any Group or Area Learn to set up and 9th September. buffet lunch for friends from committee member (see below) for use your GPS. Manage From £40 per Freshwater Walking for Health further information. routes tracks and person. See Group, writers’ groups from waypoints using free website for Pam Dana, Vice Chair course details... Carisbrooke and Hinton in and paid for software. Dorset, and the Tennyson Christmas dinner 2012 Society. We now have confirmation of the ticket The gate was installed under price for the Christmas party which will the IOW Ramblers’ ‘Donate a be held at Shanklin Conservative Club Gate’ scheme which has now on Friday 7th December, 7pm-late. A plea to members... provided 45 gates across the Tickets will be priced at £17.50 each Bobby Carlin, Area Membership Secretary, Island to improve access. Log and will include a beautiful meal of has asked that if any member has a change of on to www.iowramblers.com Christmas fare. Please contact Ann on address and/or email address, could they please for further details. 884263 or Linda on 864401 to reserve inform either central office or her. This will make Mike Slater, Access Officer your place by Friday 23rd November. Bobby’s life much easier!

With grateful thanks to Wightlink for contributing to the print costs of Contact information walkTALK. Most of the production costs are now covered by sponsorship. Area Council IOW Group Committee Wight Sole Group Items for the next edition of walkTalk Area Chair David Howarth 759823 Chair Vacant Chair Gary Clarke 299511 Thank you to those who submitted material Area Secretary David Howarth 759823 Vice Chair Pam Dana 863189 Deputy Chair Tracey Darch or 07804 for this edition. If you would like to contribute Treasurer Liz Brammall 741022 Secretary Rio Bellgore-Gullit 07800 Treasurer Dave Aitken 856249 to the next edition, published in December Footpath Secretary Mike Marchant 564909 528626 Membership Suzanne Aitken 2012 please send to: Membership Bobby Carlin 740332 Treasurer Ann Wellings 863402 Publicity Alison Cardy Access Officer Mike Slater 752997 Walks programme Carol Hamilton 566463 Graphics/Web Toby Davies David Howarth, Red Oaks, 4 Woodlands, Totland Bay, Isle of Wight PO39 0FE Countryside Officer David Howarth 759823 Social Secretary Linda Sheasby 864401 Footpath Sub-Committee Publicity Officer Howard Duffus 755469 Committee Ann Parker 884263 Secretary Mike Marchant 564909 Tel: 759823 Newsletter Editor Steve Williams 524007 Members Derek Corke 523456 Planning Cttee Adrian Tavill 562565 Email: [email protected] Committee John Hague 862842 Members Charlie Davidson 756788 Members John Gurney- 522665 Chris Edgeley 07960 By 6th November 2012 at the latest. Champion 908839 Print: Isle of Wight NHS PCT

The Ramblers’ Association is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. Company registration number 4458492. Registered charity in England and Wales number 1093577, registered charity in Scotland, number SC039799. Registered Office: Second Floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW 12 walkTALK www.iowramblers.com