21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver

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The Island’s Only Observer Locally Owned Newspaper Bembridge Voluntary sector Friday resident in the limelight 21st February 2020 honoured Issue No.77 7 14 iwobserver.co.uk Dagmar plays violin as brain tumour removed Isle of Wight woman Dagmar Turner has gained worldwide recognition this week after being filmed playing a violin while surgeons at King’s College Hospital, London, removed a tumour from her brain. But it was no publicity stunt – indeed far from it. The unusual approach was taken to ensure areas of Dagmar’s brain responsible for delicate hand movement and co-ordination, crucial components when playing the violin, were not inadvertently damaged during the millimetre- precise procedure. Dagmar, 53, who plays in the Isle of Wight Symphony Orchestra and various choral societies, was diagnosed in 2013 with a large Grade Two (slow growing) glioma after suffering a seizure during a symphony. She underwent biopsy and then radiotherapy to keep the tumour at bay, but when it became apparent last autumn that the tumour had grown and become more aggressive Dagmar, who has a 13-year-old son, was keen for surgery to remove it. The tumour was located in Dagmar Turner playing violin during brain surgery Continued on page 2 2 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Do you have a story to tell? Dagmar brought round to play Call us on: 01983 214264 Continued from page 1 holds a degree in music and that controlled Dagmar’s been playing since I was 10 is an accomplished pianist. delicate hand movements years old. The thought of the right frontal lobe of her After explaining concerns specifically when playing losing my ability to play was Email: brain, close to an area that she had over losing the the instrument. With heartbreaking but, being [email protected] controls the fine movement ability to play the violin, her agreement, a team of a musician himself, Prof. [email protected] of her left hand. Precise Professor Ashkan and the surgeons, anaesthetists Ashkan understood my and skilled use of this hand neurosurgical team devised and therapists went on concerns. Facebook: @iwobserver is essential for playing the a plan. Prior to Dagmar’s to meticulously plan the “He and the team at King’s violin as the fingers regulate operation they spent two procedure. went out of their way to plan the length of the strings hours carefully mapping During the operation the operation, from mapping Twitter: @iwobserver by holding them against her brain to identify areas Prof. Ashkan and the team my brain to planning the the fingerboard, producing that were active when she performed a craniotomy, position I needed to be in different pitches. Dagmar, played the violin and those an opening in the skull, to play. Thanks to them I’m a former management responsible for controlling and Dagmar was brought hoping to be back with my www.iwobserver.co.uk consultant, explained her language and movement. round from the anaesthetic. orchestra very soon.” love of the violin and was They also discussed with She played violin while Three days after the aware of the mutual passion Dagmar the idea of waking her tumour was removed, procedure Dagmar was well for music of Professor her mid-procedure so she while closely monitored enough to return home to her Keyoumars Ashkan, could play. This would ensure by the anaesthetists and a husband and son, and will Consultant Neurosurgeon at the surgeons did not damage therapist. She said: “The continue to be monitored. King’s College Hospital, who any crucial areas of the brain violin is my passion; I’ve Address: Suite 6, 17 Thomas House , St. Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL Publisher: IW Observer Ltd. Sprint becoming reality Digital Editor: Sandy Clarke Sales: Carole Dennett, Emma Harper, Wendy Willmott Layout & Production: Jade Honey Photography: Chris Cornford, Sharon Cornford

Regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC

The IW Observer is a member of IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor of the Press. For more information on the IW Observer complaints policy and how to make a complaint visit: iwobserver.co.uk/make-a- complaint/ Misfortunes led to collision Disorientation due to high "It was very fortunate that The track layout for the road barriers. I’m also stress, lack of visibility and nobody was on board yacht Island Car Centre Sandown looking forward to racing my a breakdown of support Greylag when it was struck

Crossword Answers - P.29 Sprint at Culver Parade on own car.” from the bridge contributed and overrun by Red Falcon.

16. Mongrel, 17. Hebrew, 18. Jiffy, 19. Yeats, 21. Incur 21. Yeats, 19. Jiffy, 18. Hebrew, 17. Mongrel, 16. March 28 and 29 has been “In our first year the to a collision between a Red In this respect, the family on

5. Ditch, 6. Flooded, 7. Rates, 13. Nominal, 15. Amounts, Amounts, 15. Nominal, 13. Rates, 7. Flooded, 6. Ditch, 5. agreed. There is already a objective was to create a Funnel ferry and a yacht in a yacht on a nearby swinging

full entry of 100 race cars and safe and entertaining track.” Cowes Harbour in 2018. mooring had a lucky escape. Newest, 4. Resolve, 3. Fused, 2. Sparrow, 1. :

Down over half the 4,000 tickets commented promoter Tim The accident happened "When Red Falcon 20. Emotion, 22. Funfair, 23. Nicer, 24. Yells, 25. Wastrel 25. Yells, 24. Nicer, 23. Funfair, 22. Emotion, 20. available have been sold. Addison of Solent. “Getting on Sunday, October swung around it narrowly

Island-based company it right this year will be a 21 when visibility was missed Cowes Yacht Haven

10. Riddles, 11. Hides, 12. Wander, 14. Tandem, 18. Jumpy, 18. Tandem, 14. Wander, 12. Hides, 11. Riddles, 10. John Peck Construction has major success and a platform severely reduced due to marina wall, and had

Without, 9. Asses, 8. Defer, 5. Saffron, 1. :

Across led the way in constructing that we can build on. We are fog. A report by the Marine yachts been rafted there the track which will extremely grateful to John Accident Investigation the consequences of this feature two chicanes with Peck Construction making Branch published this week accident could also have Find Bob, our friendly squirrel! challenging fast corners and our plans a reality.” confirmed the yacht Greylag been much more severe." Find Bob somewhere in this week’s paper hairpin bends. John Peck Adult admission costs was moored at the time that It was acknowledged and one lucky winner will win three Isle of is a keen, amateur racing just £5 per day with free Red Falcon collided with that following its own Wight related books. driver himself: “This is admission for accompanied it. The yacht sank and was investigations Red Funnel Tell us which page number Bob appears on undoubtedly a good thing children. To book tickets visit a total loss and the ferry took steps to improve its (not including this one). You can email the for the Island and will really isleofwightspeedtrials.co.uk subsequently ran aground management processes, page number and your name to spotbob@ put us on the map for UK or call 510020. Organisers in soft mud. However there equipment and training iwobserver.co.uk or text 07749 591550. The motorsport. Fortunately my are also looking for were no injuries to anybody, routines, and Cowes deadline is midday on Thursday. Last week business has access to much volunteers to help marshal no pollution and no damage Harbour Commission has he was on page 18. The winner of last week’s Sand Pictures of the equipment required the event. Anyone interested to the ferry which re-floated undertaken a review of its Talk tickets was Bernard Granger. to create a race track; from can register on the website. on the next tide. aids to navigation and risk safety fencing to concrete The report noted that: assessments. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 3

News in brief

Special concert at Wolverton

A rare treat is in store for lovers of classical music on Sunday at Wolverton Manor starting at 7.30pm. The talented sisters Aliya and Aisha Turetageva will be playing the piano and violin at a special concert in aid of medical research. Call (p1983) 740609 for tickets or you can purchase them on the door.

Are you in Natasha just ‘Blown Away’ the mood? In the Mood, a 1940s Jazz Evening, is being held at The Lounge, Monkton Arts, East Street, Ryde on by her Atlantic challenge! Tuesday, March 3 from 7pm to 9pm. Natasha Lambert, the Isle of longer than expected, so, for safety It was only as a passenger on board, approximately 3,000 miles and she Wight woman who has overcome a reasons, we have postponed the but she enjoyed it so much that estimates it should take about three debilitating condition to pursue her challenge until 2020. We have the she wanted to do more; and so the to four weeks, depending on weather For the love of sailing, is hoping to embark boat, and work is well under way to epic journey began with her never conditions. on the greatest challenge so far later ensure that I can operate it in the allowing her condition to stop her She said: “My biggest challenges record! this year. same way that I do my Mini Transat.” from pursuing a full, interesting and on this adventure will be many and Natasha suffers from Quadriplegic The boat lined up for this challenge challenging lifestyle. varied. Generally living on the boat A Record Fair is being Athetoid Cerebral Palsy, which is a Nautitech Open 46, a catamaran Since her Mini Transat ‘MissIsle due to my mobility. Getting the held at the Steamer Inn, means she has no voluntary control which gives a very stable platform Too’ boat was adapted in 2012, she right watch system for me will be a Shanklin Esplanade on over her limb movements and her for such a huge endeavour, and, of has managed to complete a variety challenge as I find it difficult to get Saturday, March 7. It speech is difficult to articulate. But course, the space for the additional of sailing and climbing challenges relaxed and into sleep mode. starts at 12 noon with by adopting ingenious ‘Sip Puff’ crew and equipment, as well as food raising funds for charity along the “Next of course is getting sufficient free entry, with the technology, she is able to sail her that will be required. Natasha has way. They have included sailing exercise, while at home I have a opportunity to browse boat. She can control the steering named this boat ‘Blown Away’. around the Isle of Wight, crossing the specially adapted walking frame through vinyls, CDs, and sail trim by sipping or puffing The biggest job has been updating English Channel, Cowes to Swansea which I use every day. On board tapes, memorabilia and through a straw, adaptations have the Sip Puff technology so it can and climbing Pen Y Fan, Cowes to I can’t do this so I will need to do retro video games. been carried out by her dad, Gary, operate the steering and sails on a London and walking the London my physio as much as possible and who has developed the whole sip puff Catamaran, ensuring that both main Mile, Scotland Caledonian Canal and also hope to use a specially adapted method for her. and foresail trim at the same time. climbing Cairngorm, and Scotland treadmill when conditions permit.” Music Quiz After many incredible feats in She said: “My dad has been very to Ireland and climbing Kippur. In Readers can support Natasha by waters around Britain, Natasha is busy doing all this for me, working so doing she has managed to raise in watching her website, www.missisle. A music quiz is being now hoping to cross the Atlantic well into the night re-writing excess of £65,000. com and follow her social media on held at the Gaslight Cafe, from Gran Canaria to St Lucia. For programmes then installing and Her latest challenge evolved when Facebook, twitter and Instagram. Sandown Station on this she needs a bigger boat and will testing the systems. Frequent re- she met Dame Ellen MacArthur There you will find updates and how Thursday, February 27 require crew to assist with the things visits to the drawing board for fine who presented her with a book, the you can support her in helping with from 6pm to 9pm to raise she cannot do herself. tuning have been required, but my Atlantic Pilot Atlas, with a lovely equipment and to donate to the three funds for the Teenage She said: “We did have this planned dad never stops.” inscription on the front which was all charities she is fundraising for. There Cancer Trust. £5 per for 2019; however, the adaptations Natasha first got into sailing in the encouragement she needed. will also be a new blog to come soon. person to take part. required to the boat have taken 2009 with a visit to the Calvert Trust. Her Atlantic adventure is 4 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Six years and still not above average

Sandown and Shanklin Independent Lifeboat Celebrating grants for Independent Lifeboats Sandown and Shanklin’s Independent effort.” Lifeboat team have received a grant of Freshwater Independent Lifeboat will put £15,116.11 from the Department for Transport. their money towards a number of projects A grant of £62,000 was also announced for including primary equipment and power Freshwater Independent Lifeboat. plant renewal. They will be purchasing new The Sandown and Shanklin money will be dry suits to replace those that have been used to help the charity make modifications repeatedly repaired or passed on from other to their new Atlantic 75 boat, currently under crew. They will also invest in a defibrillator construction. It will also assist in purchasing for their D-Class lifeboat and a collapsible More than six years after a report by the In the Government’s preferred method of new life jackets, drysuits, a man-over-board folding stretcher. Director of Children’s Services for Hampshire grading schools, Progress 8, which measures recovery system, radios and a rescue float The grant also covered the purchase of an and the Isle of Wight promised significant progress between the end of Key Stage which will be used to transfer a person from Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for improvements to education on the Island, the 2 (age 11) and Key Stage 4 the two Island land to boat by a crew member in the water. the D-Class lifeboat and a collapsible Ferno latest figures published by the Government Innovation Federation academies, Medina Mark Birch, Operations Manager of the folding stretcher. shows that only one Island secondary school, and Carisbrooke Colleges are both ranked as lifeboat, said: “The lifeboat station is very Rod Adams, Principle Fundraiser, said, Cowes Enterprise College has even reached ‘well below average’. Christ the King College, grateful to the Department for Transport for “The DfT grant is really important to us as it an ‘average’ grade. All the others are either Ryde Academy, the Island Free School and once again recognising the vital work our helps us with essential equipment renewal, ‘below average’ or ‘well below average’. the Bay Academy are ‘below average’. volunteer lifeboat crew carry out. Raising whereas our normal fundraising supports In 2013 the Government ordered that Councillor Paul Brading, responsible for this amount of money by normal fundraising the day to day running costs of the lifeboat Hampshire County Council should take Education said: “We would be in an even would take a significant amount of time and throughout the year.” over the running of Isle of Wight schools worse position if we were not working with after a transfer from a three-tier to a two- Hampshire.” tier system under the leadership of David He added that he did not think that the Pugh, now chairman of the Isle of Wight botched re-organisation had any effect on More cuts to come at County Hall! Conservative Association. the current performance. Ofsted found ‘poor corporate and strategic An Ofsted inspection based on an inspection leadership’ and ‘a lack of co-ordination’ and in January has judged leadership and said there had been ‘no co-ordinated strategy management at Medina College as ‘good’ but for school improvement in recent years’. highlighted that improvements still need to The need to improve the school system had be made. The report states: “Leaders have set been cited as a key factor in the decision to about implementing much-needed changes reorganise the system. in the last two years. These have improved The 2013 Hampshire report promised that pupils’ attitudes towards learning as well as ‘Performance at the end of Key Stage 4’ – age the quality of the curriculum. Leaders have 16, when students sit their GCSEs – ‘five A* also ensured that staff have the training - C GCSE will be at the national average by to be effective. There is more to do, but a Two of the three false acacia September 2016.’ determined start has been made and the trees outside County Hall are Three and a half years after that deadline teams and plans are in place to make further to get the axe. A tweet from only 34 per cent of Island pupils achieved improvements.” the Isle of Wight Council said grade five or above in English and maths, The Island VI Form is inspected alongside they have ‘sadly’ reached the which is equivalent to a high C or a low B on Medina College but has its own separate end of their lives. They are to the previous grading system. The national campus with Sixth Form specific facilities, be replaced with young trees. figure is 40 per cent. and was deemed ‘good’. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 5 Mixed reaction to cash News in brief Choir injection for schools concert Schools on the Isle of Wight are set to benefit Commons Library showed only three Island from a multi-million-pound cash injection schools would benefit as others were already Newchurch Male Voice from Government, according to the Isle of above the threshold and that cuts of 7 per Choir will present a Wight Council. In total, the Department for cent on Island budgets between 2013 and concert of popular Education (DfE) has increased the amount of 2020 were higher than the English average songs and music at money for Island education by around £4.8 of 5.8 per cent. He also claimed that existing Promises given over The Quay Arts Centre million, described by the Council as ‘the overspends on schools and SEND budgets at 3pm on Sunday (Feb biggest funding boost in a decade’. would eat up much of the increase with cuts 23). Their guest artist A spokesman said it would lift per- already planned for September. road improvements is Simon Davis, Pianist pupil funding to a minimum of £5,000 for He called for a proper funding commitment and Poet. The concert secondary schools next year and £3,750 in next month’s budget to reverse cuts is in support of the Isle for primary schools. The deal includes an to school budgets and that this week’s not yet delivered Of Wight Rotary Clubs additional £3.5 million for mainstream announcement would not fill the ‘black and their charities. schools, £1.2 million for pupils with special hole’ created by years of underfunding. “In BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill Retiring collection educational needs and disabilities (SEND) Dickens’ David Copperfield, Mr Micawber's and refreshments are and £129,000 for early years provision. recipe for happiness was ‘Annual income Island Roads will use four neighbourhoods, said he available. Entry is free. Councillor Paul Brading, Cabinet member twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen more years of its contract was not in his position when for children's services, said: "We welcome six, result happiness. Annual income to carry out significant the promises ‘were possibly this extra investment in our schools, bringing twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty investment to the Island’s made’ but that is not how it the total budget for Island education to £98 pound nought and six, result misery’. If Mr highways network. With works. Cliff million. Micawber is correct, it is likely that there’s the initial seven-year core An Island Roads spokesman "As a Council we recognise the pressures more misery to come!” road rebuilding programme added: “There are 18 more fall in both schools and the teaching profession as finishing this year, it years of the PFI left during a whole have been under and they have been emerged this week that which we will continue to doing a very good job at managing as best Island Roads would continue maintain and improve all Yaverland they can. an intensive programme for types of road across the "The extra funding announced by the four more years of the 18 Island. Bembridge Coastguard Government should help reduce that remaining on its contract. “We continue to carry out Rescue team responded pressure and is a step in the right direction. After a meeting of the Isle works through the normal to reports of a cliff fall However, we do recognise that more money of Wight Council’s corporate course of the contract, and in Yaverland on Monday needs to be found over the next few years to scrutiny committee, a our plan is to continue the (Feb 17). They conducted put education on a secure financial footing.” Council spokesman said next four years of significant a search of the area to However Peter Shreeve, Assistant District around 90 per cent of the road improvement work that ensure there were no Secretary of the National Education Union, Island’s busiest hierarchy will leave us very well placed casualites and informed poured cold water on the extra funding one and two roads, but not all to maintain the network to members of the public of claims. He said: “Government has been quick the roads, have been treated. the required level for the the danger. A spokesman to mention the minimum funding levels. The He said: “While the remainder of the contract. warned: “Please stay key concept being ‘minimum’.” He said that most intensive period of This means keeping the well away from potential data issued by the politically neutral House of improvement work is due to average condition across landslides or rockfalls.” Cllr Paul Brading end next month, a further the Island above the agreed four years of significant standard. investment is being brought “While the programme is Autism forward by Island Roads and not as intensive as during Spring into green the Council to ensure good the last seven years, the festival has progress continues to be public will see lots going on, made. This is funding that but with less disruption to would have been spent later local road users and visitors, moved in the contract and will ensure particularly in the periods Spectrum, the Autism the roads are maintained when holiday makers are waste collections Festival due to take place above the minimum required visiting our Island and on April 25, has changed standard." making use of the improved Existing subscribers to the IW Council's for recycling, said: “Following feedback from venues. Originally due Members of the scrutiny roads and amenities. garden waste kerbside collection service can our satisfied customers about how we could to be held at Sandown panel pointed out that in “In short, though the now renew their subscriptions on-line at improve services and as part of our ongoing Airport, it will now take original method statements period of the most intense iwight.com/greengardenwaste. Those who ambitions to provide digital-by-default place at Cowes Enterprise produced for Councillors, road improvement activity would like to join the service for the first services and improve council services. We College due to fears of 91 to 93 per cent of all is coming to an end, the time will be able to sign up from March 2. have listened and are now able to offer online inclement weather. roads would be upgraded, quality of the road network Two thousand people have already joined the direct debit payments, either monthly or Tickets can be purchased resurfaced or refurbished. will continue to rise in the waiting list. annually.” at ticketsource.co.uk/ Colin Rowland, director of coming years.” Councillor Steve Hastings, Cabinet member spectrumfestivaliow. 6 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 For love of the planet on Valentine’s Day

West Wight toilets

A group of up to people, mainly youngsters to the strike and must go back to classes took part in the Valentine’s Day Strike for in the afternoon. We have to wear school set to be replaced the Planet. They heard from a number of uniform and are expected to behave as we are speakers as they met in St Thomas’ Square, representing the school. Others are not so including 14-year-old Anya Poerscout- lucky; their schools don’t let them strike or BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill Edgerton who organised the event. A pupil the parents aren’t supportive.” at Sandown’s Bay CE School, she said: “I had She confirmed her own parents supported to get through a massive flood today to get her actions and wished there was no need to ‘Dilapidated toilets in West Wight, built in the “We know there is a large water tank which here. We’ve abused our world for far too long be out of school: “I’ve got quite good lessons 1950s, with urinals that have running water runs all the time; it is just complex and and we lose 200 species every single day. today and I'd love to be in school studying for all hours of the day, and expensive water problematic. I’ve tried to make this an event of love; we my future. But if my future contains rising bills, are set to be demolished and replaced “The current facilities are very old fashioned just don’t appreciate that we have this lovely sea levels and mass extinction I don't want with new, purpose built conveniences. and are not at a standard we expect. planet. It’s beautiful. Everybody has looked to just sit there and study and talk about this. Plans to knock down the Gate Lane public “We want what is best for residents and at a sunrise, a view or a flower and realised I want to be out and fighting for my future.” toilets in Freshwater and build new ones have visitors to the Island as they are very popular that it makes them happy. That’s something As well as the Bay School those joining the been submitted to the Isle of Wight Council. in the summer.” we can unite behind no matter what we think strike included pupils from Lanesend Primary A group established by Freshwater Parish The new toilets could be extended to include about the way we strike or what our motives School, The Free School in Ventnor and Council to design the new commodities was disabled loos with baby changing facilities are. Carisbrooke College. They were joined by set up several months ago and its ultimately and more stalls. The group was interested “In our school we work with the head the Red Rebels who are linked to Extinction thought to be cheaper to demolish and start in getting pay-to-use toilets, having had teacher, and we have a deal. We can come Rebellion. again then refurbish the previous site by a presentation from the company Danfo. almost £10,000. However, talks have not progressed and the A design and access statement from parish council now wish to keep the facilities the parish council describes the toilets as free. Comments on the proposal can be made ‘dilapidated’ and in a ‘state of disrepair’ but until February 28. with one unique element. The toilets features a design of urinals which have continuous flowing water, making them very costly to run, with much higher water bills compared to other toilets under Freshwater Parish Council’s control. An invoice from November 2019 shows the water consumption at Gate Lane was £1,617.96 for three months, whereas a bill for Moa Place, also in Freshwater, from October, cost £171.82. Heather Rowell, Freshwater Parish Council clerk, said the Council had received a number of complaints about the toilets. She said: “When we took over the toilets from the Isle of Wight Council we did not realise what the water usage was like. We thought there was a leak but we couldn’t find one; it is quite excessive. Adult Learning Service rated ‘good’ by Ofsted The Isle of Wight’s Adult and Community its last inspection, in October 2017, overall Learning Service has been rated as ‘good’ effectiveness was assessed as ‘requires following its latest Ofsted inspection. improvement’, so this is excellent progress Inspectors assessed the Council-run and reflects well on those who run the service service in January, rating it as ‘good’ overall, and its courses and the dedication of the including overall effectiveness. At the time many adults who participate.” of the three-day inspection there were 222 The service offers a range of courses for learners enrolled with the service, which disadvantaged adults and communities has four different strands of adult learning across the Island. There are also four – Health and Wellbeing courses; Functional sub-contractors that deliver mainly non- Skills in English and Maths; Digital Inclusion accredited programmes. and Family Learning Programmes. Areas in which Ofsted rated the service as Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, ‘good’ included the quality of education, Councillor Paul Brading, said: “This is personal development and leadership and excellent news and shows what a well-run management. The report also listed areas and greatly appreciated service this is. At where the service needed to improve. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 7 Johanna Jones receives Honorary Fellowship

Ken Hicks presenting award to Johanna Jones The Historical Association recently celebrated her 88th Castle. the staff at The Elms. (HA) has honoured a resident birthday. Johanna studied History Lesley Wise, General of The Elms Nursing Home in She was the immediate past and English at Southampton Manager of The Elms, said: Bembridge for her lifelong President of the Island’s HA University and was awarded a “We are extremely happy commitment to researching until her retirement, and Master’s Degree. In addition and proud for Johanna in her and promoting the social lectured on local history to her evening class courses achievements.” history of the Isle of Wight. for the Workers’ Education in local history, she also Ken Hicks said he was Johanna Jones, who was Association. She is also the contributed to the lecture delighted to present the HA married to Dr Jack Jones, the author of several Island programme of the IW branch Fellowship and could not late curator of Carisbrooke history books. of the HA. Her proudest think of a more deserving Castle Museum, has received Born in Llandudno, Wales, moment, she says, was her recipient, adding: “This an Honorary Fellowship from Johanna met husband when education, which gave her award recognises, albeit the Association. As she was they were both working the opportunity to study for in only a small way, the unable to travel to London for the Liberal Party. They a degree at Southampton tremendous contribution to receive her award, it was married when she was 21 University. Johanna has made in sharing presented by Ken Hicks MBE, and moved to the Isle of The Fellowship was the history of the Isle of FHA, the President of the Isle Wight when Jack became the a complete surprise to Wight.” of Wight Branch. Curator of Carisbrooke Castle Johanna, who celebrated her A resident at The Elms Museum. They lived in the award with the Officers of since January 2019, Johanna Governor’s House within the the Isle of Wight Branch and Historic bell to be part of VE Day celebrations A historic bell from HMS other artefacts highlight Sandown was discovered links to Dunkirk and during the recent renovation Normandy, and will also of the Broadway Centre, feature in the exhibition. as well as other artefacts, Paul Coueslant, founder of and they will form part of the online history group Our a feature commemorating Sandown, said: "It’s great and celebrating the 75th that the town was entrusted Anniversary of VE Day in with the safekeeping of May. these treasures from HMS Sandown Town Mayor Sandown when it left Royal Gary Young said: "The Bell Navy service, and good news was found when we looked that the Council is looking through our archives, for opportunities to display and we are grateful that historical items like this for Town Councillors and local us all to see." volunteers are putting Cllr Heather Humby MBE together an exhibition for added: "It’s really good later in the year." for the community to get HMS Sandown has a involved with this initiative, longstanding link to the and hopefully we can launch Cllr Ian Ward BEM, Mayor Gary Young, Cllr Heather town, including holding the it in May with a Church Humby MBE and Historian Paul Coueslant. Freedom of the Town, and Service as well." 8 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Leanna new Red Funnel Operations Director

HMP Isle of Wight Prison ‘not good enough’ BBC local democracy reporter Louise Hill

Overcrowding, buckets as Inspector of Prisons, said: toilets and prisoners who “The continued lack of could not vote were just some action mean patients remain of the issues inspectors found in facilities that are unable in the latest check up of HMP to meet their needs for Isle of Wight. The reveeled significant periods of time. that ‘not enough’ progress “Taken as a whole, progress had been made following had not been good enough in a previous inspection in the majority of areas. There 2019, when they made had been good progress in several recommendations to three, reasonable progress alleviate the situation. in two, insufficient progress The prison, which holds in one and no meaningful almost 1,000 inmates, almost progress in five areas. Leanna Lakes & Fran Collins all serving long sentences “This was a mixed review. for sexual offences, were Local managers had worked Red Funnel Ferries has drive cultural improvement marked against 11 key well and made progress announced the appointment and bring practical solutions criteria. The inspectors’ in some important areas. of Leanna Lakes as its new to reduce operational risk. improvement plans to However, HMPPS needs a Operations Director with Fran Collins, CEO of Red ensure ‘basic standards of change of approach to ensure immediate effect. Funnel Ferries said: “We are decency’ had been rejected accommodation meets basic Leanna is a Master delighted to welcome Leanna by HM Prison and Probation standards and all prisoners Mariner with over 20 years’ as Operations Director to Service (HMPPS). receive appropriate support experience in the industry Red Funnel. Leanna brings Peter Clarke, HM Chief and health care.” at both a national and a wealth of experience with international level. She joins a proven track record of Red Funnel from Condor building strong teams and Ferries where she held the improving standards, and position of Head of Safety & I am delighted that we will High street shops Compliance for the last three benefit from her industry years, working closely to expertise.” threatened by All aboard for night to business rates The future of Shoe Zone, reform to the system, which miss menace Dennis which has stores in Newport, raises about £30 billion a Ryde and Shanklin could year. Many high street and be in the hands of the new town centre properties are Chancellor of the Exchequer, struggling to pay the tax. Rishi Sunak, who was Deputy Leader of the Isle appointed by Boris Johnson of Wight Council, Stuart last week. The CEO of Shoe Hutchinson said: “The Zone, Anthony Smith said it Government valuation office could be forced to close 100 sets the rates payable, not stores, a fifth of the total the Council. However we number, unless business administer the collection and rates are cut. we offer all reliefs to which Business rates are set by businesses may be entitled. the Government and are “We were part of the recent similar to council tax on pilot scheme which gave us residential properties. Mr 100% control of business Over 100 Red Funnel would be taking place until Smith said that although rates and so more flexibility, passengers ended up Sunday morning, and were rents had fallen, business but that has now ended. sleeping on a ferry after kept updated throughout the rates had increased from 26 There is a government Storm Dennis led to the night. per cent to 54 per cent over consultation on changes to suspension of Cross-Solent “Red Funnel provided food the last decade. He told the business rates taking place crossings. and drinks to all of those BBC: “It's a simple maths later this year. A spokesman for Red on board before conditions question. Every time a lease “I do think it essential Funnel said: “Due to adverse improved enough for service comes up, we'll look at the that changes are made to weather conditions caused to resume at 9:15am on mathematics of it. If we help our struggling high by Storm Dennis, Red Funnel Sunday morning. We would are not making any money streets. The impact to was forced to suspend vehicle like to take this opportunity out of it... the shop will independent retailers of ferry sailings overnight on to thank all our passengers unfortunately close." online shopping is, I think, Saturday, February 15. With for their patience and our Business rates are set to rise badly underestimated and the approval of the Captain, staff for their excellent duty by £94.5 million this year is growing rapidly. The high Red Funnel staff invited of care.” for larger companies, while rental and rates costs of town passengers waiting at the The response on social schemes to cut rates paid by centre premises doesn’t terminal on board Red Osprey media to the ferry companies smaller businesses have not yet reflect this and needs to for comfort. Passengers were gesture was overwhelmingly been as effective as expected. change.” informed that no sailings positive. There are widespread calls for JJ may be around longer than expected A spokesman for the Isle of Wight accommodation. It has already been advice in light of the £70million savings Council has confirmed that the announced that his contract would be this contract is helping to deliver over contract for controversial contractor extended until April. the lifetime of the PFI contract, and the Jay Jarasundara may be extended. Mr An Isle of Wight Council spokesman need to maintain an effective contract Jarasundara, known as JJ is employed said: “The current contract with management approach. If required the through his own company Jasmin Jasmine Consulting is due to end in current contract allows for a further Consulting and is currently paid March of this year. The Council is extension until June of this year.” over £16,000 a month and £750 for currently assessing its need for further 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 9

Sandown Town Council and local volunteers Broadway Centre will be blooming marvellous!

Sandown Town Council and local volunteers marked “With Sandown nominated as a finalist in the Royal Valentine’s Day with the planting of new trees in its grounds. Horticultural Society’s Britain in Bloom 2020 now is the time Town Councillors joined with members of Sandown Green to make that extra effort. It is good to see the community Town Volunteers to plant over 20 young native trees (whips) coming together and working together. We are grateful for enhancing the wasteland at the back of the centre. the support of the Town Council. Our aims are the same, to The area is being brought back into use for the benefit of improve the town we all love.” residents and wildlife, with area’s outdoor space available Sandown Mayor, Gary Young, said: “The Green Town for users of the centre and residents. Sandown Green Town Volunteers do a tremendous amount for the Sandown Volunteers Vice-Chair, Ben Holbrook, said: “Planting a community. We are grateful for their help about the town and tree is one way in which we can all make a difference to the hope to develop this further in the future.” environment and to Sandown. New travel agency welcomed to Newport's High Street

Barrhead Travel staff Barrhead Travel have had their official on-going growth. She heaped praise was cut by Nigel Hartley, CEO of the 'ribbon-cutting' opening. There were on the Newport team saying she had Mountbatten Hospice. a lot of smiling faces and happiness at seen for herself that people who came Emma Ram, manager of the Newport the branch, and guests were treated in were not only customers, but a lot of branch, was delighted with the to Barrhead cupcakes and a glass of had made friendships with the Newport proceedings and said she is looking Prosecco to celebrate. team from previous associations during forward to a long a happy future with Kathryn Darbandi from the Glasgow their Thomas Cook days. Councillor Barrhead on the High Street. Head Office welcomed guests and gave Shirley Smart welcomed Barrhead to an overview on Barrheads roots and Newport's High Street, and the ribbon 10 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020

News in brief Storm uncovers dinosaur footprint at Sandown

Dinghy search proves in vain

Reports of an empty dinghy floating in the Solent sparked a thorough search by Cowes RNLI Hedgelaying back lifeboat. The dinghy, said to be about four metres long, was reported to have been later in the month seen off Fishbourne by The annual Isle of Wight Hedgelaying Competition will Wightlink’s Victoria of be returning later this month. The event is happening on Wight. February 29, between 10am and 4pm, at Coombe Farm, Having launched, the Brighstone. lifeboat searched an The Isle of Wight Hedgerow Group said: “The field is wetter extensive area of the than the last one, but more sheltered, so wrap up, put on your Solent, plus Wootton wellies and pop along. It's free to park, enter and spectate.” A dinosaur footprint, believed to be 130 "Our track maker was crossing this Creek, for nearly an The hedge is not long so pitches are limited, and competitors millions years old, has been discovered on an environment 130 million years ago, heading hour, last Thursday (Feb are asked to submit entries ASAP to avoid disappointment. 13). Nothing was found Isle of Wight beach. southwest in what is now Sandown Bay, however, and with the Following the recent bad weather, brought leaving these huge tracks in the boggy soil. light fading the lifeboat on by Storm Ciara and Storm Dennis, sands "Behind the dinosaur lay a range of low returned to station. parted on Sandown beach to reveal the forested hills, while ahead lay a flat floodplain incredible footprint. landscape dotted with forests, river channels Trust launches The find was made by Wight Coast Fossils, and herds of herbivorous dinosaurs. Clay who said on Facebook: "All this weather is footprints such as these can be relatively revealing traces of vanished worlds along our common, but do not hold up to the forces of Councillor coastline. erosion for long. the ‘Where Best "This is a really fascinating example of how "Sadly they will typically disappear in a resigns events like Storm Ciara continue to expose couple of days or weeks, as the tide wears traces of ancient environments around our down the soft clays of the formation, an Next’ campaign Cllr. John Marshall has geologically unique coastline, often in plain awesome but fleeting glimpse of a time long resigned from Lake Parish sight such as this footprint. gone, lying in plain sight on our coastline. A new scheme launched by the Isle of Wight NHS Trust - Council. He apologised to "Sandown Bay has revealed this beautiful "The footprint is visible on the foreshore ‘Where Best Next’ - is aiming to make sure patients are residents but his reasons 130 million year old dinosaur track yesterday, at Yaverland. It may be that it’s been discharged from hospital in a safe, appropriate and timely included concerns about preserved in the brightly coloured clay. The covered already but it’s likely there are other way. the way meetings are pointed toes of this track may indicate a tracks exposed in the area that people may Evidence shows that around 35 per cent of patients over the conducted and a lack of type of dinosaur known as a large theropod, encounter, especially as the current stormy age of 70 cope less well with daily activities during hospital detail in a consultation perhaps Neovenator or the Spinosaurus weather deposits and shifts the beach sand." admission, compared to how they felt before they became on the refurbishment of Baryonyx. unwell. the toilets in New Road. The Trust claims that prompt discharge from hospital- He said he would find it to-home contributes to a speedy recovery and reduces the more effective to attend risk of hospital associated infections, which has become an meetings as a member of increasing problem. the public. Dr Mark Connaughton, Consultant Cardiologist, said: “The ‘Where Best Next’ initiative encourages you and your family to discuss at an early stage the plans for your care once you leave hospital. All the healthcare professionals looking after you will contribute to these plans and for almost everyone the discharge plan will work on the basis that ‘home first’ is the Beside the best option. “Your needs may best be assessed in your own home, and Seaside hospital staff will arrange this if required. We recognise that there will be a few people that will not be able to go home The adult learning in the first instance and may need alternative care in the organisation WEA will community.” be holding a ‘Beside the Seaside: Tourism on the Island 1700-1950’ course in Brading on Saturday, Charity gig at Apollo March 7. Course leader Richard Smout will will be presenting the event at St Mary’s Church Hall, Brading from 1.30pm to 4.30pm. The cost is £13.50. For further Oyster Girls hand gift to information: call 0300 303 3464 or visit wea.org. uk. Three Isle of Wight bands will come together for an evening Isle of Wight charities of music in aid of St Mary’s Hospital’s Sunshine Radio. The Hooleys, Rare Breed and The Five O’Clock Shadows will Members of the Oyster Girls Morris side parks and events around the Island over last be performing at the Apollo Theatre, Newport on Friday, donned their bright green costumes to hand summer. February 28. over cheques to Isle of Wight charities, Young The Oyster Girls will celebrate their 40th There will be a mix of Irish and Country, along with music Carers and Independent Arts. anniversary next year and are still welcoming from the ’50s through to the ’80s. Sunshine Radio provides The side raised £200 for each charity new dancers and musicians. More details can music and entertainment for patients on the wards and also dancing at local pubs, seafronts, holiday be found on their Facebook page. via online streaming. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 11 Jazz club bought for 2p puts on swinging shows

Edana Mighella who will be performing at the September Peter Trueman, Mike Whitehead & Bill Wills concert The popular Newport Jazz Club traces its the princely sum of two pence and the UK’s best pianists brave storm Dennis origins all the way back to 1964, when Newport Jazz Club was back in business. on Sunday (Feb 16) to blow away the aspiring guitarists Cass Caswell and Since then the club has gone from audience in a masterclass set of piano Robin Whitehead joined forces with strength to strength, hosting regular duets along with some stunning solo Robin’s drumming brother Mike to play monthly Sunday afternoon concerts performances.. David Newton and as a trio, initially for fun. playing host to many of the top names in Criag Milverton shared the stage and As they built up their repertoire British and international jazz and giving it was clear they enjoyed the chance they started to, in their words, inflict opportunities to the next generation of to play together. They were given themselves on the public. However, the young players. The mainstays are Mike excellent support by Adam King on bass original club folded as young families Whitehead who with a background in and David Ingamells on drums. took priority. theatre takes care of the concert lighting The next Newport Jazz Club Over the years Cass moved away and and sound whilst Bill Wills looks after performance is on Sunday, March 8 Mike Whitehead switched to double the administration side of things. Bill featuring the Gareth Hughes Quintet bass. With families now grown up, said: “We have a circle of helpers, but which includes Alan Barnes and Bruce Mike got together with a couple of jazz- new volunteers are always welcome.” Adams. As a one-off this concert will be loving friends and the Phoenix Trio was Mike and Bill are both excited about held at Quay Arts starting at 3pm. More born with Mike on bass, Peter Trueman theprogramme of concerts lined up. information and tickets are available on piano and Bill Wills on drums. Mike said: “It is always a fine balance. from Bill Wills on 523879, who would The trio decided to resurrect the old Getting the right mix of artistes is also like to hear from anybody who Newport Jazz Club to feature both always a bit of a juggling act but I would like to get involved in the club. the trio and visiting musicians and a think we have got it about right. Island Their full 2020 programme along with permanent home was secured in the audiences are enthusiastic for Trad jazz reviews of previous performances can Apollo Theatre. In 2010 Cass Caswell and we always cater for this.” be found at newportjazzclub.co.uk. formally sold the rights to the name for Their latest concert saw two of the Windeler Cup launch by Island Sailing Club A new sailing race for small in 1931 as an opportunity for keelboats, to be held on owners of smaller yachts to the same day as the Round enjoy a ‘bigger than usual’ the Island Race, has been competition. It is in this spirit announced by the Island that the Island Sailing Club Sailing Club. has introduced the new race The Windeler Cup will allow and addressed the desires of boats which are too small smaller keelboats who would to safely participate in the like to take part in the main annual circumnavigation of race. the Isle of Wight to join in the Rob Peace, the Island Sailing excitement of the Round the Club’s Rear Commodore of Island Race weekend, with the Sailing, said: “We are often race taking place on Saturday, asked whether some smaller May 30. keelboat classes could once Instead of sailing the full again participate in the Round 50 mile course of the main the Island Race, as they did race, boats from the Daring, in the past. Unfortunately, Dragon, Etchells, Flying with today’s stringent safety Fifteen, Mermaid, Redwing, restrictions, we’re not able to Swallow, Sonar, Squib, RS Elite accommodate these classes. and XOD classes will compete However, we have come up in a 'Round the Solent' race with the idea of a new race, for the new Windeler Cup. The starting at 0830 hours after race will start from the Royal the last Round the Island start, Yacht Squadron line off Cowes, that will allow the smaller shortly after the main Round keelboat classes to sail for the Island fleet is underway, their own prestigious trophy and will follow a course around on a shorter course around the Great advertising rates the Western Solent, taking Western Solent.” advantage of favourable tides The Windeler Cup Notice of to finish back on the RYS line Race will be available on March 01983 214264 in Cowes. 1, when online entries will also The race has been named the open. Visit Windeler Cup page ‘Windeler Cup’ after Major on the Official Website after Cyril Windeler, who created March 1 for more details. the Round the Island Race 12 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Wootton Bridge pupils take to road on bikes

Children at a Wootton school deliver a programme of to travel independently and the training children need have been getting on their events and activities to as safely as possible to and to be able to be competent bike to help build confidence increase sustainable modes from school. This becomes cyclists. for riding on Island roads on and decrease car use on the even more important when “The children involved two wheels. school run. they transition from primary thoroughly enjoyed the The pupils, from Year 6 at The children navigated to secondary school. day which they say was Wootton Bridge Community some of the Island’s more “As we all know, travelling challenging but good as Primary School, have taken tricky roads, including more actively to school they now feel so much more part in a Level 3 Bikeability Newport’s Coppins Bridge. also has several other confident to cycle on the cycle proficiency course. The Level 3 course is aimed benefits, such as reducing roads, ready to go off to High The training was run as at riders who have already car pollution, improving School.” part of the Department of completed the Level 2 course physical and mental well- The ‘Shift It’ project is Transport’s (DfT) Bikeability and have demonstrated being and increasing young part of a wider programme funding, managed by the Isle that they are ready to take people’s independence.” of transport interventions of Wight Council and carried on busier roads, negotiate Mrs Jane Wilford, being carried out by the Isle out in schools by partner more complex junctions and Wootton’s School of Wight Council over the Shift-It. multi-lane traffic. Headteachers, said: “We are next year, using £450,000 The project is set up Ross Edmunds, Shift-It seeing more children cycling of funding from the through the council’s DfT Project Manager, said: “It to and from school and, Department for Transport’s funded Sustainable Transport is important to give our whilst we greatly encourage extended STAF. Access Fund (STAF) to children the training required this, we are also mindful of Under starter's orders for Isle of Wight Festival of Running

With fewer than 100 days to Race, at the helm of the Red go, entries are streaming in Funnel Red Eagle ferry and to the Isle of Wight Festival in South Africa, where he of Running. has accompanied a member Around 1,000 athletes are of the organising team. The expected at the Island’s Isle of Wight is one of the biggest running event, from last British havens of native May 24 to 31. red squirrels. The festival, in its fourth To find out more and enter, year, is organised by the visit iwfor.co.uk Break from tradition but West Wight Sports and Community Centre, and has royalists still in Ryde races for runners of all ages and abilities, from children In a break with tradition Queens and junior Princes to seasoned trail runners. Ryde Carnival is dropping and Princesses. There is also The headline race is the its Queen’s Float this year. the opportunity to be part Needles Half Marathon, Before royalists become of the entourage who dance a tough trail along the alarmed that the committee behind the float. spectacular coastline of has been taken over by "All participants learn dance the West Wight, above the republicans, we can confirm routines and we take part in Needles, one of Britain’s there will still be a very regal all Island carnivals. We have most iconic natural flavour to the procession as also taken up invitations to landmarks. for the first time there will attend Littlehampton and The week-long festival be a Royalty Float. Although Bognor Regis carnivals.” includes two 5km races, a boys have been regularly There will be a royalty 10km and a children’s fun welcomed onto the float, it selection night on Saturday, run. Camping on site is a was girls who were crowned February 22 and they would popular choice. Queens or Princesses, but like lots of young people over New this year is the Duver that is now going to change. the age of 8 who live in the Dash, a 5km run at St Helens A spokeswoman for the PO33 area to attend. Get your Duver. The festival’s new carnival committee said: “As dancing shoes on and bop mascot, a 6ft red squirrel, we are an inclusive carnival along to Ryde Academy Sixth has been spotted on the we would like to encourage Form on Playstreet Lane for Needles Half Marathon more boys to apply. We 5.30pm. Judging begins at route, at the Ryde 10 Road will be crowning Kings and 6pm. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Advertising 13 1414 FeaturePuzzles www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Voluntary sector in the limelight Feature

This is the first feature in a series looking at voluntary sector organisations on the Island.

If you are would like your organisation featured, please call Wendy on 01983 214264 or email [email protected]

Find out more www.carersiw.org.uk 01983 533173 Staff of Carers IW hospital team

Carers IW is a small, local charity that gym sessions for carers, craft activities, Mrs O from Ryde said: “When my doctor in some of the groups Carers IW run. I was supports adult carers both in the community film club, book group, a dementia café for suggested I contact them, I was against surprised how much support and learning I and hospital, offering help to over 1,000 carers, a male carers’ group, assessments, it. I didn’t need any help. From my first gained from other carers in the groups, as carers across the Island at any one time. and emotional support. These activities meeting, I realized just how much I was well as having some fun. It was good to laugh They give carers the tools and support and more allow carers to socialise and get keeping to myself, protecting my children. and do something unconnected to my caring needed to ease the pressures of caring for a peer support, helping to combat feelings of I was embarrassed that I just spouted lots role. If you are an unpaid carer, I would say family member. isolation and loneliness. of emotions and words I didn’t realise I was get in touch with Carers IW and take that Their new Carers Centre at the Riverside A carer’s lounge at St Mary’s gives help at holding in, the tears just flowed. first step; it will help.” Centre in Newport provides carers with a a time when people are often unprepared “It felt very emotional, but it broke the ice If you support someone who would struggle space of their own and an office facility for for new responsibilities following discharge and subsequent visits were much easier. I to manage without you, drop in and see the community team. It is generally open from hospital, unsure of what will be felt it was a safe place where I could share in them at the Riverside Centre in Newport or from Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. involved or where to turn for help. Carers confidence my true feelings and worries. I give them a call on 533173. Their website is They offer a wide range of support can also get a card giving free parking and learned coping strategies to use at home and carersiw.org.uk. including relaxation days, residential respite subsidized meals while the person they care manage situations differently but safely. You’ll always find a warm welcome, a cup weekends, dementia and moving training, for is in hospital. “Eventually I got brave enough to join of tea and a friendly ear. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 15

Richard Hutchins, Thomas Nash and Richard Weaver Thomas captivates audience at music concert in Bembridge

The Bembridge Singers gave a concert an infant, beginning his musical studies of Weaver Brothers Ltd, Independent of light music at Holy Trinity Church, aged six, taking up the guitar under the Funeral Directors handed over a cheque Bembridge. Accompanied by Alastair tutelage of his grandfather, John Nash. to Thomas Nash, in support of his Nye on the piano, the choir was Thomas has developed considerable continuing studies. directed by Richard Hutchins, who talents in all areas of music, including To complete the evening, the singers introduced each section and provided playing the violin and piano, and performed a medley of crowd pleasers amusing encouragement to them recently singing and percussion. For from the musical ‘Oliver’ with soprano throughout. They performed a variety his part in the evening’s entertainment Lydia Partington giving her debut solo of songs, beginning with a harmonious Thomas played four pieces on the piano, performance during this section. interpretation of Amazing Grace to including compositions by Chopin, The next event will be their summer Pachelbel’s Canon, followed later with a Kabalevsky and South Korean composer concert, which will take place at St. trio of Irish melodies. Afterwards, well- Yiruma, to a mesmerised audience. John’s Church, Oakfield, Ryde on known Soprano Amy Bottriell-Nye sang Later, he played on the acoustic guitar Saturday, June 6 at 7.30pm along a captivating solo of Mozart’s Laudate and gave more superb renditions, with James Longford and members Dominum. including Gavotte by Bach and also the of IoW Symphony Orchestra. Tickets However, the star of the show was score ‘Un Dia de Noviembre’ from the from www.ticketsource.co.uk/ special guest 14-year old Thomas Nash, film of the same name. bembridgesingers who has a music scholarship at Ryde Various local sponsors who gave their School. Born in Wuhan, China, he moved support to the event were thanked for to the Isle of Wight with his family as their contributions and Richard Weaver Dead dolphin washed ashore at Shanklin Please support Ventnor Coastguard Rescue sturgeon, dolphins and Team reported on Twitter porpoises are deemed in law they had been called out as Royal Fish. Any caught our advertisers, to deal with the carcass of within three miles of the a dead dolphin which had English coastline or washed they make your FREE washed ashore on Shanklin ashore become the personal Love for Wightlink ladies Beach. They completed the property of the monarch. Yarmouth's new Town Crier office. He said: "Wightlink IW Observer relevant paperwork, took If you sadly come across a started out on a romantic doesn't always inspire love, photographs and arranged stranded or dead Royal Fish note by handing out red but the ladies in the terminal for the Isle of Wight Council around the coastline of the roses to ladies in the town on are lovely and I thought it possible! to dispose of it. Island you should call the Valentine's Day. He dropped would be nice to show them Since the reign of Edward Coastguard. This latest call- into the Wightlink terminal that they are appreciated on II (1307 - 1327) whales, out happened on Monday. to see the ladies in the ticket this special day." 16 Advertising www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 17 World Café for Ryde talk about community safety

Lake Co-operative Funeralcare Charities receive windfall in memory of loved ones More than £11,000 has been donate to can be a reflection donated to various Isle of of something their loved one Wight charities in memory held dear to them or a charity of loved ones, with over 260 that supported them at a donations made in 2019 via a time of need. free online memorial feature "We know that people offered by several Island Co- donated to 351 different operative funeral homes. charities last year but what Thanks to the generosity we can't quantify is how An event called ‘Let’s talk, it’s Ryde’s very passionately that all the members way forward for Ryde to be the outcome of those who have recently many people that went on to time to shine’, will take place on March of Ryde’s community should have their of the event. I look forward to working lost a loved one, £11,880 was help. The donations would 12 at The Hotel Ryde Castle, with Ryde concerns, voice and opinions listened with residents at the World Café and donated through the feature have made a difference the only Island town chosen to receive to. If we are to reduce crime and make then into the future with the social offered by the Island’s to thousands of people's the funding for the World Café. Ryde safer then we must understand enterprise.” Co-operative Funeralcare lives and this is incredibly The World Café is a way to bring the what we can do for ourselves as a If you are a resident, young person branches, which are part of special." community together to make a positive community. who would like to take part in this Southern Co-op. The Isle of Wight difference to young people, steer them “I committed to this project from the important conversation register by Last year, donations based charities included away from crime by helping them very start alongside other keen and sending an email to letstalkryde@mail. averaged around £44 per Mountbatten, which build resilience, and promote a better dedicated partners as it is clear this is com or call 07506930109. The first 100 donation. More than one received £3,560, while the relationship between residents/young the main purpose. I have taken part in to register will receive £10 for their third of the donations, Hampshire and Isle of Wight people and businesses with the Police five training sessions to help deliver the time, refreshments provided and there £3,860, were made via The Air Ambulance received and other stakeholders in Ryde. event and will be ready to welcome you is a free draw. Co-operative Funeralcare in £1,340. Cllr Karen Lucioni, Ryde Town on the day. My hopes are for a positive Lake. Funeral homes on the Isle Councillor for Ryde South, said: “I feel conversation with a clear vision and The memorial feature also of Wight offering the free allows friends and family to online memorial feature set up a personal tribute page include The Co-operative to light virtual candles, share Funeralcare in East Cowes, memories, stories, photos Freshwater, Lake, Newport, and videos of loved ones. Ryde, and Shanklin. Chief Operating Officer for For more information about funeral care at Southern Co- online tributes, visit www. op, Steve Pearce, said: "The funeralcare.co.uk/tributes- charities people chose to and-donations. Island Rotary Clubs to stage special appeal

The Rotary Clubs of the Isle Now’ campaign are tripled by of Wight are staging a special the Bill and Melinda Gates’ event on behalf of Rotary’s Foundation, every £5 given ‘Fill Your Plate for Polio’ and will raise £18.75 for the ‘Mercy Ships’ appeals. fund. Similarly, donations to It takes place at Quay Mercy Ships are more than Arts, Newport, at 3pm on doubled by matching Rotary Josh is snap happy Sunday, February 23, and grants. features a free concert by the Polio now exists in only two Newchurch Male Voice Choir countries, Afghanistan and Shanklin resident Josh Thomas has local partnership of conservation group forms a very strong part of the image and Simon Davis, a pianist Pakistan, but the worldwide scooped a prize in a competition and Solent area councils. The event and also shows off the sunlight that and poet. It will be followed vaccination programme designed to raise awareness of protected highlighted 72 different species of passed through the wings forming a by a free afternoon tea. must be maintained if it winter birds such as the Brent Goose, birds and will be repeated later this year backlit effect. The Rotary Clubs are is to be totally eradicated. Oystercatcher and Dunlin. The 18-year- because it was so successful. “The rippling water adds to the inviting voluntary donations Without it, this appalling old entered this stunning photo of a Isle of Wight Observer photographer image and forms a natural frame that of at least £5 per person, on disease could recur anywhere Little Egret taken at sunset at Hersey Chris Cornford praised Josh’s work, enhances the subdued colours making which they will claim Gift in the world. Estimates Nature Reserve near Seaview, and was saying: “This beautifully composed use of full dynamic range. Josh should Aid, adding another 20 per suggest as many as 200,000 selected as one of two winners in the image has captured a wonderful be very pleased with this image and cent. cases per year are a distinct Great Solent Birdwatch contest. It moment in time as the bird was foraging shows great ability for furthering his As all donations to Rotary possibility. was organised by Bird Aware Solent, a for food in the shallows. The reflection photographic journey.” International ‘End Polio 1818 FeaturePuzzles www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Age is just a number but still best to be prepared

Benjamin Franklin famously said there true. Better working conditions, less like ‘50 is the new 40’ and photographs were only two things certain in life - smoking and healthcare breakthroughs of celebrities like Helen Mirren who death and taxes. I'd like to add a third; have all helped to increase life made headlines around the world well at least if you manage to avoid the expectancy over the generations. The when she was photographed in her 60s first. Getting older. As children we Office of National Statistics has a cheery looking stunning in a red bikini. German all thought our parents were old and little calculator. You put in your gender scientists have even carried out research grandparents positively ancient, but as and current age and it tells you how which led them to announce that 72 is Great advertising rates the years go by and we fulfil those roles long it is before you’ll be pushing up the the new 30. And when did you last hear ourselves things just don’t feel quite daisies. You can find it at https://bit. the phrase ‘old-age pensioner’? the same. ly/2P9mLlE in case you’re interested. But no matter how long we can delay it 01983 214264 It’s not just that we are all living longer, Be that as it may, we all expect to live or how healthily we live, at some point although statistically of course that’s forever. The media is full of platitudes we all have to face the facts. Everything 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver FeaturePuzzles 19

Becoming a golden oldie is going to happen to us will start to ache at the beginning senior citizenhood or becoming a love who may be ‘getting on a bit’. and end of each day, and for much of golden oldie is going to happen to us, But these days just because we are the rest of it. We will find ourselves we might as well prepare for it. Some naturally getting older, that’s no reason saying things like ‘you go on ahead, of the advertisers in this special feature to become old. Perhaps we should I’m just going to sit down for a minute’ on getting older can give support with all aim to die young – but at a ripe old or ‘back in my day’. And there will be practical issues like financial planning, age. And just to make us all feel a little moments when younger colleagues ask making your home easier to manage or better, Dame Helen Mirren said of her what a cassette tape is or can’t believe giving you options about where to live most famous photograph: “The thing that we used to turn a handle to open comfortably. that will haunt me for the rest of my life car windows that will give an insight Others can help in different ways. is that bloody photograph of myself in a into how much the world has changed It’s certainly worth looking ahead and bikini. In and of itself, it is a lie because around us. thinking about the issues they raise, I don’t actually look like that!” However reluctantly we accept that either for yourself or somebody you 2020 FeaturePuzzles www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Sort out those financial affairs

Many of us dread the annual release equity in your home fun, but thinking about what One option of course is to tussle with the tax return can make you take stock of will happen to your money, get your hands on as much of and it can be even harder to what you want to achieve possessions and property your money as possible and face sorting out our financial before you get too old to do after you die will give you spend it while you’ve got the affairs as we age. Something very much. Do you have a peace of mind that your loved health and energy to enjoy our society is very bad at is bucket list? If you want to ones will not have to struggle it. Your bereaved relatives facing up to the grim reality go skydiving over Mount with making decisions at a can gather round for the – that the grim reaper will be Everest, then it is probably time when they are grieving. reading of your will and find calling for all of us one day! better to plan to get done Whenever you are making that all that’s left for them But actually, putting before you get your telegram big financial decisions it pays to share is a mismatched and aside a day to sort out all from the Queen. It’ll cost a to get professional advice. A chipped dinner service. Your your financial affairs can pretty penny, so maybe your mistake may leave you with will effectively says ‘I’m be cathartic and quite home can provide a way to less than you need to live afraid there is no money’. liberating. Multiply how you fulfil your dream, if your on and a badly drafted will If it’s good enough for the feel about doing your annual pension won’t to run to it. can cause endless arguments politicians. tax return by a factor of 10. Likewise making a will may between much loved family Considering whether to not sound a great deal of members. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver FeaturePuzzles 21

The value of leaving a list

According to a recent YouGov survey by them. number to call to cancel the newspaper 62 per cent of the UK adult population Lewis Wheeler of Wheelers Solicitors delivery. have not made a will. Citizen’s Advice said: “A family I dealt with recently “Knowing that they had all the has reported year on year increases has shown me that there are a couple information they would require to in people seeking advice in relation of further simple steps that can greatly deal with the estate to hand gave the to intestacy problems (if someone benefit those left behind. family great peace of mind. Following dies without a will), almost doubling “In this case the testator, the person bereavement is always a very sad between 2011 and 2015 alone. who has made the will, had also and often traumatic time. Having to Leaving a will is the only way to ensure prepared an inventory of all the financial rummage through paperwork can be a that the people you choose are the and administrative related aspects of huge source of additional stress.” ones who wind up your affairs and that their lives. This simple list contained A simple list, alongside some filing, specific items (and sums of money) you account numbers and contact details for will certainly be appreciated as a caring wish to bequest to people are received everything from bank accounts to the and thoughtful gesture. 2222 FeaturePuzzles www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020

Caring for Carers

Launched in January this year, Walking businesses have teamed up with Walking Angels’ monthly membership hub for care Angels to enhance the free time of care workers aims to support all Island care workers with many discounted benefits and workers with a well thought out ‘wellbeing’ services just for its members. Carly Harding, programme. After many months of exploring Managing Director said: “We are committed the needs of care workers, they are offering a to building and growing our membership service providing key tools such as monthly hub for Island care workers. Support is key group counselling, cqc training and many to ensuring our community receives the best other benefits. Over 35 Island affiliated care by supporting those who care”. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver FeaturePuzzles 23 Stay connected - it will really help

One of the greatest challenges of become difficult for either you or your that might be on option for you then it ageing is staying connected. It isn’t friends. It’s important to find ways to is sensible to explore the options before always easy as you grow older, even if reach out and connect to others. Along you really need to. you have always had an active social with regular exercise, staying socially Whatever you decide, having a range life. Retirement, illness or the loss of a connected can have a positive impact of people you can turn to for company beloved partner can all be hard to deal on your health as you age. Some people and support is a great buffer against with. And the older you get, the more find that volunteering is a way to make loneliness, depression, disability, people you inevitably lose. friendships. Others consider a move hardship, and loss. In later life, getting around may into sheltered housing. If you think 24 Entertainment www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020

By LOCAL EVENTS ACROSS THE ISLAND Jade Honey

MEDINA THEATRE

Wannabe - The Spice Girls Show Stop right now! Thank you very much. It’s time to Spice Up Your Life like it’s 1996. Relive the ’90s through the hits of the Spice Girls on this Spice World journey; all you have to do is Say You’ll Be There. February 28 @ 7.30pm Sleeping Beauty a real treat – well done Wight Strollers! Review by Jade Honey Maleficent, made her entrance, the sounds the director of Wight Strollers, Sarah of thunder filled the room implying the Scotcher. She had the crowd constantly I took my mum for a birthday treat to sight of evil will soon be upon us. laughing with her witty jokes and her face enjoy the performance of Wight Strollers’ Every character from the main ones to the expressions. She was so relatable and quick ‘Sleeping Beauty’. In all honesty, we set extras in the back were in their element as with unscripted responses to people in the out with low expectations, purely because I they performed each of their unique roles. audience which made the show feel that didn’t know what to expect, but we were so Carabosse was portrayed in such a way that more personal. The wit comes so naturally Ben Hart: Wonder pleasantly surprised from the minute the you really believed the character, how evil to her, making the character of a cleaner Britain’s Got Talent 2019 finalist, West End star play began. she is, the deep sadness she feels. Her - who you’d think would be less relevant and multi award-winning magician Ben Hart is The curtains opened and wonderful voices voice was the perfect fit for the songs, the than some of the others - one of the most embarking on his debut solo tour. Described projected through the theatre welcoming evilness of her voice never once fading. important of them all. by David Walliams as ‘the living embodiment baby Aurora to the world. The King and Princess Aurora and Prince Hugo had a The costumes were beautifully designed, Queen were humorous characters, bouncing gorgeous on stage chemistry that allowed with so much detail in every single one, of magic’, Ben has recently played to royalty, off each other with their chemistry while the two of them to connect in a believable especially when the whole crew came heads of state and celebrities, in West End the three fairies, dressed in pink, blue and way, both filling their roles impeccably out matching in red for the special 40th theatres, international arenas and on dozens purple, filled the role with much accuracy well. Aurora was sweet, innocent and kind anniversary finale. of UK and international TV appearances that you were made immediately aware of while Prince Hugo had a hint of arrogance Overall, the show was one of the best February 29 @ 7.30pm who they were portraying. but also incredibly charming as a prince I’ve seen in a long time. A huge well done The sound effects and the instrumentals should be. Although, I must admit, he to every single person who was involved, played by the band in the corner of the reminded me more of Flynn Rider from even the ones we didn’t actively see. stage added so much feeling and curiosity Tangled! (next show idea?) Wight Strollers have been around for 40 of what was to come next. For instance, My personal favourite character was years, and I hope for many more! when Carabosse, more famously known as the cleaner, played incredibly well by Blackgang overrun by escaped dinosaurs! Take a walk on the wild side this footprints, eggs and other exciting John Culshaw: The Great Easter as Blackgang Chine Land of clues to a roaring surprise. British Take Off Imagination roars into action for While the adrenaline is still a brand-new event, Dawn of the pumping, people can grab the Comedian, impressionist and star of BBC Dinos. wheel of an off-road Dino Safari Radio 4’s Dead Ringer’s Jon Culshaw, For three days (April 10-13) the vehicle to race friends around the accompanied by legendary comedy producer theme park will be inundated track. and author Bill Dare, takes to the road for a with dinosaurs and exciting dino- There is also the Restricted Area new run of their acclaimed show, following sell themed activities between 11am 5 with its treacherous path, while out runs at the Edinburgh Festival and across and 3pm. dino-themed games and activities the UK. Archaeologists have made a beneath the excavation tent can discovery digging beneath the see kids become palaeontologists. March 6 @ 7.30pm thick chalk cliffs of Blackgang Dominic Wray, Blackgang Chine Chine, The Lost Temple. The site Park Manager, said: “We’re really is being prepped and made ready excited for this event, especially for all intrepid explorers on the as this will mark the return of the BOOKINGS & INFO Jurassic Hunt. nostalgic Triassic Club trio! Visitors can join the immersive “It’s been a long wait for many, live-action experience to but Darwin, Oscar and Wallace are 01983 823884 adventure within the ancient ready to eat - sorry, meet you all walls, dive through boobie- in their latest venture, Triassic www.medinatheatre.co.uk traps and encounter incredible Mining Club.” Sponsored By Wightlink creatures. Keep eyes peeled for

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? LET US KNOW BY EMAILING [email protected] 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Entertainment 25 THEATRE, LOCAL EVENTS & CINEMA

Adele tribute to perform on the Island SHANKLIN THEATRE World renowned, Adele tribute to perform Adele experience. Presented by CJshows on the Island. Helen Ward-Jackson, the Tickets cost £16.50, visit www. most fabulously accurate No1 tribute ticketsource.co.uk/cjshows or call to Adele, will perform in Cowes at the 07752377517 to book now. Trinity Theatre on Saturday, February 22. Helen who performs internationally, will February 22 @ 7.30pm perform all the hits from Adele’s multi- Trinity Theatre, platinum albums 19 & 21. Helen has the Cowes, voice and mannerisms that recreate a real PO31 7QR

Let the ‘Robbie’ entertain you!

CJshows presents Hollyoaks Heartthrob Tickets £16.50 @ www.ticketsource.co.uk/ Tom Vaughan, as The Robbie Williams cjshows The Fureys Experience on Sunday, March 1 at the For info call 07752377517. Legends of Irish music and song The Fureys, Trinity Theatre. His sound-alike vocals, renowned for their hit songs ‘I Will Love You’, cheeky personality and charisma will leave March 1 @ 7.30pm ‘When You Were Sweet 16’, ‘The Green Fields everyone entertained. This is his 5th Isle Trinity Theatre, of Wight show. Tom will perform all the Cowes, of France’, ‘The Old Man’, ‘Red Rose Café’, hits through the years such as Angels, PO31 7QR ‘From Clare To Here’, ‘Her Father Didn’t Like Rock DJ, Candy and many more. Tickets £16.50 Me Anyway’, ‘Leaving Nancy’ and ‘Steal Away’ return on Friday, February 28. February 28 @ 7.30pm The Marley Experience at Strings

Strings Bar & Venue present ‘The Marley February 29. Experience’, the ultimate Bob Marley Advance tickets cost £15, for more tribute live and direct from the heart of information please visit Strings Bar & the UK. Venue’s Facebook page. Giving you all the hits, classics and sing February 29 @ 7.30pm alongs including ‘One Love’, ‘Three Little Strings Bar & Venue, Birds’, ‘No Woman No Cry’, ‘Iron Lion 9 Bowling Green Ln, Zion’ and many more. Newport The rescheduled date is now Saturday, PO30 1LL

Nick Sharratt comes to the Riverside Centre Ben Fogel - Tales From The Join Nick Sharratt for a family event as He’s also the illustrator of Jacqueline Wilderness he goes on an intergalactic adventure Wilson’s phenomenally popular books and Join Ben in this uplifting and exciting show, celebrating his fabulous picture book the man who draws Tracy Beaker. when he’ll be sharing his stories of the ‘You Choose in Space’. He’ll be doing lots of drawing, playing space-themed February 22 @ 11.30am wilderness. Ben has climbed Everest, been games and you can help him invent some Riverside Centre swimming with crocodiles, saved elephants, hilarious new space creatures. Nick’s Newport dodged pirates and so much more! much loved other picture books include PO30 2QR You Choose, Shark in the Park and Pants. £5 March 2 @ 7.30pm WHAT’S ON AT THE CINEMA?

NEWPORT RYDE SCREENING SCREENING

Brahms: The Boy II Sonic The Hedgehog Joel Dommett - Unaware of the terrifying history of Heelshire Mansion, Sonic The Hedgehog is a live-action adventure comedy a young family moves into a guest house on the estate based on the global blockbuster videogame franchise Unapologetic (If That’s where their young son soon makes an unsettling new from Sega that centers on the infamously brash bright OK?) friend, an eerily life-like doll he calls Brahms. blue hedgehog. He has become a regular face on TV, from being a finalist in 2016’s I’m a Celebrity, Get Emma Dolittle Me Out of Here! (ITV), to then hosting ITV2’s Jane Austen’s beloved comedy about finding your equal I’m a Celebrity Extra Camp alongside Scarlett After losing his wife seven years earlier, the eccentric Dr. Moffatt and Joe Swash. and earning your happy ending, is reimagined in this John Dolittle, famed doctor and veterinarian of Queen delicious new film adaptation of Emma. Handsome, Victoria’s England, hermits himself away behind the high March 6 @ 8pm clever, and rich, Emma Woodhouse is a restless queen walls of Dolittle Manor with only his menagerie of exotic bee without rivals in her sleepy little town. animals for company. BOOKINGS & INFO Birds of Prey The Call of The Wild 01983 868000 You ever heard the one about the cop, the songbird, the Adapted from the beloved literary classic, 20th Century psycho and the mafia princess? ‘Birds of Prey (And the Fox’s The Call of The Wild vividly brings to the screen www.shanklintheatre.com Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)’ is a the story of Buck, a big-hearted dog whose blissful twisted tale told by Harley herself, as only Harley can domestic life is turned upside down during the Gold tell it. Rush of the 1890s.

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? LET US KNOW BY EMAILING [email protected] 26 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Vectis Searchers simply the best!

Ben on his way to

Members of the Vectis Searchers Metal and the landowner share the prize. Detecting Club have been honoured at its Vectis Searchers operate a ‘free search’ top Ballet School annual presentation evening for the best service to Islanders and visitors when an A student at Ryde Academy is celebrating stage at Bestival and won Island’s Got Talent discoveries in 2019. item of value or sentiment is lost. The group after being accepted to train at the prestigious with the elite team. The club is believed to be the Island’s digs holes, before carefully filling them so no School of Ballet Theatre UK. The teenager started taking ballet classes oldest Metal Detecting Club, founded in 1985 damage is done to the land whether pasture Ben Thompson, 16, has secured one of just as part of A-Level dance technique lessons in and still finding Island history. The Vectis or arable. 16 available places on the degree course. Year 12. Searchers have twice been invited to attend Club members record the precise location Ben started Ryde Academy in Year Seven Ben was asked to attend an audition the Big Dig at Brading Roman Villa to help of the finds using GPS technology. They and developed an interest in dance halfway by Christopher Moore, Artistic Director, with the excavations carried out by Professor are then sent to the County Archaeological through the year, studying jazz dance Founder and Principal of the School of Ballet Sir Barry Cunliffe of Oxford University. Service where the Island’s Finds Officer for within musicals. He was soon spotted by the - before being offered one of 16 places on the In addition, they have been invited to join the British Museum's portable antiquities Academy’s dance teacher and Head of PE, degree course. English Heritage at Carisbrooke Castle and scheme (PAS) identifies and records the finds Hillary Seaton, who invited him to train with Mrs Seaton said: “We are so unbelievably the Channel 4 Time Team programme at and provides a printed copy to the finder. the school’s award-winning elite team. proud of Ben and shows how hard work is the Yaverland. The Isle of Wight is said to be the best in the Ben has been training with Mrs Seaton key to success.” In recent years, the club has discovered gold country for reporting finds and the British for six years and has won awards, including Jo Muncaster, Head of Sixth Form, said: coins, Celtic jewellery and other items that Museum says that discoveries have already Child Performer of the Year at the Isle of “Ben is undoubtedly a star of the future. We have significant financial value. If the objects and continue to change previous historical Wight Radio Child of Wight Awards. He also are thrilled to hear of his success.” are declared to be ‘treasure-trove’ the finder records of the Island's past. performed behind pop star Louisa Johnson at Ben will commence his degree in 2021 once Wembley Stadium, performed on the main he has completed his A-levels. Film adds to debate about assisted dying

David & Jill George

Documentary makers David and Jill George directly affected by terminal illness and its Photo: Alverstone Station release their film 'Love & Dying' at the end consequences. We hope our film will assist of this month, which asks if there should the debate." be a change in the law relating to assisted The film will be premiered at Ventnor Arts dying. The issue is the subject of debate as Club, High Street, Ventnor on February 26 around 300 people with terminal or chronic and 28 at 7.30pm, and at Aspire, Dover Street Memories of Alverstone conditions end their own lives every year and in Ryde on February 29 at 7.30pm before others travel abroad for help to die. Assisting being shown in venues across the country. A Take a trip down memory lane in this (Feb 22 and 23) from 10am to 4pm. The £1 someone to die in the UK is against the law Q&A will follow each screening. weekend at an exhibition of old photographs admission fee includes entry to a raffle. There and risks a 14-year prison sentence. For more information call Utility Films on and information on Alverstone by Nick will also be refreshments and home-made The film's makers said: "We tell the moving 852540 or email [email protected] Raynor. The exhibition in Alverstone’s Old treats available with all money raised going stories of two families who have been School Hall is open tomorrow and Sunday to hall funds. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 27 Add some cash to the kitty by volunteering to aid Island cats

New drainage

A cat adoption centre in Ryde is inviting offer lots of training, advice, support call in to the centre, call 03000 120 251 people with spare time and skills who and guidance to ensure volunteering is or email Emma directly at isleofwight. service firm would like to help the Island’s cats enjoyable and fun, while also being vital [email protected] to find out more about the variety of to the centre’s success. fundraising opportunities available. The “As a volunteer we aim to ensure that Cats Protection’s Adoption Centre in you feel you are directly contributing to opens on Island Marlborough Road will be opening its the care of the cats, as well as having doors on Saturday, March 7 for a drop- the chance to learn new skills, meet National company MetroRod has opened on the Island, in event between midday and 2pm for new people and form new friendships. offering a drainage service to both businesses and residents, potential volunteers. If this sounds right for you, we can’t offering maintenance, repairs, surveys and water jetting. Emma Duffield, the centre’s wait to hear from you.” MetroRod manager Adam Collier said: “Having been a happy Volunteer Team Leader, said: “We are Training is given in all areas and customer of MetroRod while helping family on the mainland really looking forward to meeting lots of previous experience is not always I was surprised to find that they were not operating on the new people at our volunteering day. We necessary. For further information visit Island. I’m really looking forward to continuing to expand hugely value each of our volunteers and cats.org.uk/isleofwight/get-involved, and develop the business here. It is important to me that the Island has access to the same quality services the rest of the country takes for granted.” MetroRod Isle of Wight said they will be looking to recruit Garden Plant Group within the next few months. talk by prolific Spartans looking gardening writer to repeat victory The Isle of Wight Garden the Royal Horticultural Plant Group’s annual spring Society. But David has real lecture will be given by David world experience as well, The Isle of Wight NHS Trust egg and spoon race and a Hurrion who has spent more designing a diverse range of charity football team, the ‘decorate the Easter bonnet’ than 20 years writing for and gardens and consulting and Spartans, will take on the competition. Half time editing garden magazines advising to suit the needs Fire Service in their second will see a difference with and websites, most recently and lifestyles of domestic bout on Sunday, March 1. It children of all ages given for BBC Gardeners’ World gardeners. follows a thrilling 6-5 win for the opportunity to chase an magazine. He has appeared David, who has been the NHS at their last clash. ‘Easter Bunny’. on radio and television and gardening all his life, will The teams will be fighting The ‘bunny’ will run taken part in many practical be giving his tips on how it out to raise funds for the from one goal to another and instructive videos on to create ‘Your best-ever Firefighters Charity and while clutching Easter eggs gardenersworld.com. During Garden’ at the Parish Rooms Dream Holidays. and trying to reach their his career he has designed in Town Lane Newport on As with previous NHS destination without being and planted show gardens Thursday, March 5 at 7.30pm. charity football matches, tackled to the floor by the and displays at most major Admission is £6, payable this one has additional children. Gates open at UK garden shows including at the door, and includes entertainment for all 12:30pm with kick off at 1pm Chelsea Flower Show and refreshments. There will the family. Little ones, at East Cowes Vics’ ground, he is a Designate Judge for also be a raffle. joining the adults, can Beatrice Avenue. enjoy an Easter Egg hunt, 28 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

01983 216200 [email protected] IWOBSERVER.CO.UK/ANNOUNCEMENTS

Birthdays Wedding Anniversaries Tributes

BETH ANGUS, to the most EMMA KEMP, Happy precious mother in the world Birthday princess. Love you, YOUNG HELEN & PHILLIP ELLIOTT HILL and the only person who from your old man. X (Mitch) (Dianne & Mark) knows me inside and out, NINA O’REILLY, look who’s We feel so lucky to call you (Tony) I love you to the moon and made it to the big 30! Happy The best scotch is aged both our parents. Sending all our love and On behalf of all the back. Best wishes on your Birthday Nina, the fun really scotch. best wishes as you celebrate presenters and listeners to birthday. Love Saz xx begins now. Love ya! From We hope you have a another year of love and Angel Radio Isle of Wight, your besties Kimbo, Tala and I didn’t get you aged scotch, wonderful anniversary and togetherness. we would like to express our Seb xoxo it’s just a metaphor, and way city break. Miss you. CRAIG deepest sympathy to Tony’s LINDA RANKIN, you raised too expensive. (Yasmin) May you love continue to family and his many friends. me as if you were my mother. From Mollie and Jack hold strong and grow with I will always love you! Happy Should I have gotten you xx Yasmin, time seems to have the passing time. His wonderful radio Birthday Grandma. x scotch? Maybe one of those flown by. Just the other day programmes will be airplane bottles… you could barely stand, and Happy Anniversary! broadcast again in his now I get to watch you run MATT Love Jean & kids x memory. the world! MICHAELS Oh yeah, I almost forgot, happy birthday mate. (Pheobe) RUBY, sometimes I get We will miss you Tony. Watching you grow up has jealous of you. After all, you From Dave and the clan been such a joy, and I know Happiest birthday to my best married the world’s most that only greatness lies friend. charming and brilliant man. ahead for you. Sometimes I wonder how Happy anniversary, dearest Notices You deserve all the you put up with me, but then wife! Love Lee xx May your birthday be just as wonderful things that you Announcements I remember that I put up with MARIE, happy anniversary spectacular as you are. have right now. You are the you too, so that makes us to my darling wife. I can’t FREE Love Mum & Dad xx purest soul, and you have even. help but smile thinking the biggest heart. GENTLEMAN looking for Happy Anniversary my love. back on all of our happiest SHAUN JENSON, Happy a lady to take dancing memories from the past 40 *Limited time offer* Birthday son! Hope you have I love you. and to the cinema. Please I love you! years, and I’m excited for a cracking day with Em and call 07555678252 for more what the future with you will Let the Island know baby Lucy. Thinking of you. From Rach xx details. Lils xx bring. Love you always. John Mum & Dad xx your family news.

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A day of mixed emotions at IW Donkey Sanctuary

Wroxall’s Donkey Sanctuary have announced the arrival of a miniature donkey named Augustus. Gus was formerly living in the West Midlands, with a flock of sheep as company, but as he got older his owner realised he would be happier with friends of his own kind. The Sanctuary praised him for putting the donkey’s needs before his own and confirmed Gus is settling in well. However, it was a day of mixed emotions as the Centre also lost Georgie who had become very lame and was in a lot of pain. After all other options had Emily has the know-how been exhausted the sad decision was taken to have her put to sleep. The Centre said that since Christmas about all things eyebrow they have had to say goodbye to some of Emily Ward of Hidden Beauty in East Emily, who only opened her salon their best known donkeys and it has hit Cowes is celebrating after being picked last July, said: "I can't quite believe them very hard. But with 97 donkeys in as a finalist for two industry awards. it. I never in a million years thought their care, many of them old and with She is hoping to win the accolade of I would be a finalist at either of these, unknown backgrounds, it is inevitable Eyebrow Artist of the Year (under let alone both. I am on cloud nine and there are times like this. However, what two years) in the Micropigmentation feel like a winner just being a finalist. keeps them going is knowing they will UK awards and has also been selected "I want to say a massive thank you soon be out and about with the donkeys by an international panel for Best to Gem's Ink, Cosmetic Tattoo Studio putting smiles on everybody's faces and Overall Permanent Make Up Artist in telling me to enter them both. I all their residents will see out their days the newcomer category at the PMU wouldn't have had the confidence to in the 'lap of luxury'. Augustus Georgie (Permanent Make Up) conference. enter them without her." 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Puzzles 29 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Crossword Chess puzzle

8 9 Across Down 1. Spice used for seasoning and 1. Pirate Jack’s last name (7) colouring (7) 2. Melded together (5) 5. Freed (Anag.) (5) 3. Determination (7) 10 11 8. Slow and patient, horse like 4. Latest (6) mammals (5) 5. Leave someone’s company (5) 9. Missing (7) 6. A lot of locations in the UK have 12 13 14 15 16 10. Word puzzles (7) recently been this (7) 11. Try to make non-visible (5) 7. Council Tax (5) 17 12. Walk about aimlessly (6) 13. Barely (7) 18 19 20 21 14. Two seater bicycle (6) 15. Quantity (7) 18. Nervous (5) 16. Dog of many breeds (7) 20. The enemy of reason (7) 17. Jewish language (6) 22. Travelling event with rides and 22 23 18. In a _____, just a minute (5) games (7) 19. Irish poet and senator (5) Spot the winning move? White to play & mate 23. Kinder (5) 21. Becomes a target for (5) in three moves. Puzzle kindly supplied by John 24. Loud shouts (5) Wrench. To join a club email: chessplay@mail. 24 25 25. Layabout (7) com. Last weeks solution: 1. Rce3 Bxe3, 2. Rxe3 Kxd2, 3. Qc3++. (if 2. Qxe3 then Qxe3++) Wordsearch How to play Find the following words associated with Slimming World, horizontally, vertically, Place a digit from diagonally, backwards and forwards 1-9 in each empty Sponsored by Slimming World. Website: cell so that each slimmingworld.co.uk. T: 03448 978000. Find us row, each column on Facebook, Twitter and and each 3x3 block Instagram. contains all the CHEESE LEARNING digits from 1-9 FOOD LIBERATING only once. FRIENDS RICE FRUIT SLIMMING WORLD Sudoku GENEROUS TASTY HAPPY VEGETABLES For the answers to the crossword, see page 2. HEALTHY WEIGH Spot the differences For the answers to the Spot the Difference see the IW Observer website Can you find all eight differences between the two pictures of cat adoption fundraising below? 30 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Consultation begins over Nature Notes antisocial behaviour plans

Plans to update dog and alcohol controls across the Island have gone out to consultation. New legislation means the Isle of Wight Council and police officers will be gaining new powers to control antisocial behaviour, such as drinking alcohol in public, and dog fouling. In the past, Dog Control Orders and Designated Public Place Orders have been separate pieces of legislation, but on the Island, as in the rest of England, these are now to be combined in the new Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs). The new orders will allow police officers and the Council to continue protecting the Island’s beaches and public open spaces for locals and visitors to enjoy. Many of the rules which have been in place for the past 10 years will remain unchanged under the new PSPOs. The consultation will seek to confirm these existing arrangements and seek residents’ concern and emotion within the community. views on a number of amendments. These “This was a shame, because most of what mainly concern dog exclusion zones within was proposed was simply migrating the fenced children’s playgrounds; dogs on leads existing orders into new ones. There is not, in cemeteries, and dogs on leads on some and never has been, any proposal to change rights of way. overall dog controls on beaches as a part of No new dog exclusion orders are proposed these new orders and it is disappointing for beaches, the existing orders would that some people even now are claiming simply migrate over to the new PSPOs. Parks Lichens - ‘vast reef otherwise. and open spaces with no fenced children’s “Dog owners should be reassured that playgrounds are not affected. these proposals are needed to move existing The consultation will last for eight weeks orders to the new legislation, with the only with an online survey and opportunities of silvery coral’ and proposed changes relating to cemeteries, to participate by emailing, in writing or fenced children’s play areas and some rights at community drop-in sessions. After the of way. consultation, all the comments that are made “The intention of dogs on leads in certain will be considered before any decision is areas is about the safety and the enjoyment so much more made. of the general public. To ensure areas are safe The final decision to agree the new order, In her fascinating new book about design but by happy accident, into and clean for everyone to use, we have to be with any changes included, will be made by strict about asking dog owners to keep their graveyards These Silent Mansions nature reserves ‘sheltering plants the Council’s Cabinet in April. dogs under control and to pick up after them. (Jonathan Cape £16.99) the poet Jean and animals driven to the brink by Councillor John Hobart, Cabinet member for “Most people are very responsible when Sprackland has a whole section on urban development and intensive the environment and heritage, said: “Most of walking their dogs and are happy to keep to the Council’s beaches welcome dogs all year lichen. agriculture.’ these simple rules and we thank them for round, and I have no intention of changing Lichens are ‘double acts’, algae The lichen-encrusted stones shown helping us to maintain pleasant green spaces that. The way information on the proposed and fungus living as one to mutual here are at St Mary’s, Carisbrooke, for all to enjoy.” orders was circulated last year caused a lot of benefit and best viewed with a where the grass is kept well- magnifying glass - a hand-lens like trimmed. But there are 12,000-plus jewellers use is recommended - to burial places in England and Wales reveal a different world. poised to provide a significant role As Sprackland variously describes in meadow conservation under an it, letting her poetic imagination initiative called Caring for God’s run riot ‘a vast reef of silvery coral’, Acre. ‘an old industrial zone with open Because these are also some of the chimneys’, ‘a rocky outcrop bristling very few spots where vestiges of old with giant fossils’. meadow land may still be found and They might even be found in real they offer an appropriate sanctuary worlds other than our own. Two types for flora and fauna that are rare and have been exposed in the vacuum endangered elsewhere; over 98 per of space, to normally lethal cosmic cent of our wildflower meadows have radiation and swings of temperature, disappeared over the past century. and survived totally unscathed. Going back to lichens, Sprackland Sprackland writes, “For those offers one for special consideration who really know and study lichens, called parmelia saxatilis, aka ‘skull churchyards are key sites, because lichen’, which as this appellation they contain numerous separate suggests obviously has an association micro-habitats, each made of with graveyards - it grows on human different materials and exposed to bones. different degrees of warmth, light This was once ‘highly prized for its and moisture. medicinal properties, particularly if “Multiple species can find sanctuary it was found on the skull of a hanged here, safe from human interference man’. More invitingly, lichens are like chemical spraying and excessive useful indicators of air quality. They tidiness, and some do not occur in are pretty well the last plants able any other environment.” to endure conditions past the tree Indeed many consecrated sites line and into the sub-Arctic tundra (of which the Island has a large and there, of course the atmosphere and diverse collection despite its is (or should be) as clean as you are being one of the UK’s last outposts likely to find it. of paganism) have turned, not by

Latest sports news P. 34 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Letters 31

Island Soapbox Send your letters into us [email protected] or post them to us IW by David Holmes Observer, Suite 6, 17 St.Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL Holmesy! Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in these letters are not those held by the IW Observer or its staff. one man against the world They belong to the author and the author alone - Letters must be no longer than 250 words please. [email protected] How the primrose spread

Dear Editor, Disraeli's association with his organisation. European tour done - and favourite flower went some way beyond Among its avowed aims was 'to encourage Primrose Day mentioned in last week's and help our members to improve their Nature Notes. competence as leaders'. there's no place like home The cult that quickly grew around the Some might say it is now needed as never creator of the modern Tory party produced before, but it wound up in 2004 due to lack in 1883 the Primrose League, devoted to of support! spreading Conservative principles in the UK. James Allaway, Newport By 1891 this attracted a million members, making it the century's biggest political IW NHS Trust finally on the up... Dear Editor, I attended the first IW NHS Trust hand the changes making the whole process Board Meeting for 2020 last week, and it was of medical care not only more efficient, but immediately apparent I had walked into a also more smoothly integrated. My journey much leaner slicker operation. Gone were through the stages of referral, assessment, the lengthy woke patient story introductions and on to surgical pre-assessment was and it was straight into business, with the faultless. Elsewhere I accompanied a patient Board assuring it was on top of many of the on the path from urgent GP referral, through issues which beset it at the end of last year. A&E, and on to a specialist clinic, the whole Four stars for catering reestablished, and process was seamless and couldn’t have been most importantly a 100 per cent success rate more caring or professional. was announced when it came to discharging We occasionally hear horror stories, but I patients from MAU with discharge can only speak as one finds. Fragmentation summaries. Those responsible for onward between departments has been an issue I’m safely back from my farewell European Belgium and Holland have fairly good care should no longer find themselves left in in the past, but I witnessed none of this, tour. Despite the gales and rain, in just over but free-to-use roads, while Germany’s the dark, and hopefully these basic standards everything progressed seamlessly and a week I managed France, Belgium, Austria, autobahns were originally a part of Hitler’s will not be allowed to slip. efficiently. Yes, I only witnessed a snap the Netherlands and Germany. I had friends grand plan to get the economy moving. It was Recruitment still remains a challenge, shot of a relatively small section within the there but just deleted them from my phone, the only idea he had that wasn’t completely but I am delighted to say there is a more hospital, and yes, it was super busy, but there I’ve gone Hans free! psychopathic. Adolf ordered the construction upbeat energy evident. Gone is the tired old was also a professional calm; what I saw was Almost independent England has the best of Europe’s most comprehensive motorway rhetoric of ‘it’s difficult to recruit talent to impressive, and if it is being replicated across of everything, literature, music, buildings, network. In decades past, the speed at the IW’, replaced by job adverts which extol the whole hospital, then things appear to be history and manners and it’s a land of which their emergency services cleared the attraction of choosing the IW as a superb at long last on the up. opportunity. Forget Frank Sinatra’s advice accidents and got everyone moving again work/life balance choice. Hans Bromwich, Cowes about ‘making it in New York, New York’ was astonishing. No wonder Germans build On the ground, I recently witnessed first with hard work and determination, it’s much the world’s best cars; driving long distances easier to make it here. I was a complete at very high speeds is blissful. dunce at school-bottom set in virtually every I always look forward to the autobahns, but Yarmouth school community 'treated with subject. They even threw me out of typing horror of horrors, last week I got stuck in and needlework lessons - honestly, they several pointless boring German jams; it’s contempt' really did! Although undeserved, these harsh all gone terribly wrong. We wasted three exclusions didn’t curb my desire to become a hours crawling along on the outward drive Dear Editor, Councillor Steve Hastings objecting to the school’s closure because of successful citizen. to Munich and encountered long delays for has confirmed that the Local Authority’s the likely damage to their businesses. Like most English people, I love traveling. some minor bridge works at 9 pm coming recommendation is ‘to close Yarmouth Clearly the governors pay no heed to the I can’t even pass an airport without back again. School’. This comes after months of evasion DfE Guidance and treat the parents, carers daydreaming I was off somewhere exciting. The previously enviable and efficient from Councillor Paul Brading and the and community with contempt. That said, even at the most exotic destination, Germans have completely lost the plot. governors of Yarmouth School, and pretence There is a DfE legal presumption against within days I look forward to coming home Their enviable Teutonic road network has that this is for the benefit of the children. closing rural schools (Yarmouth is listed as again. Despite our miserable weather, I succumbed to the same bureaucratic health Last time the Local Authority attempted ‘rural town and fringe’) and before one is certainly couldn’t live anywhere else; I’d and safety nonsense as ours. Miles of to close Yarmouth School, there was robust shut a number of factors must be considered, miss The Archers and England rugby. previously unrestricted roads on which you resistance from the governors, all of whom including ‘the likely effect of the closure of And if there’s a foreign could drive at 150 mph were committed to Yarmouth’s community the school on the local community.’ dish better than a roast all day long have been and the school at its heart, and the school When will this consideration be carried out? dinner I haven’t eaten replaced by mile after remained in the community. Will the Local Authority and the governors it yet. No beverage mile of idiotic slalom This time, not one governor lives in ignore this DfE requirement, hiding behind is more refreshing ‘If there’s a cones with poorly Yarmouth or is committed to the town’s the pretence that the school is simply to be than a cup of well- posted temporary community. The chair, Carla Bradshaw, a ‘moved’? made English tea - foreign dish speed restrictions. local authority (LA) appointee says her role is In their unseemly scrabble for money for not too much milk, Worst of all, they’re implementing the LA’s decisions. the All Saints’ Freshwater site, IW Councillors one sugar please. I better than a using smart speed Yet the DfE handbook for school governors are denying parental choice, depriving don’t have rose-tinted camera technology states that ‘it is vital’ that governing bodies children of the enriching environment spectacles; I’m critical roast dinner, I to enforce their are ‘connected with, answerable to, the Yarmouth offers and damaging the fabric of the things we never traffic orders, which communities they serve, particularly parents/ of the community which has supported the get right, like big of course, must be carers.’ school for generations. infrastructure projects haven’t eaten it obeyed at all times. The school’s own consultation showed Will West Wight Councillors be proud that and roads. Compiling Carelessly, in one that 84% of the stakeholders were against the first sight to welcome visitors leaving the a list of great British yet’ contraflow, I got ‘moving’ the school. In just half an hour, 31 ferry, will be a derelict school? irritations is easy; flashed at a measly Yarmouth shops and cafes signed a petition Jill Cowley, Yarmouth litter tops my current 60 kph. Safely home, red-mist list. I’m living in fear of the I struggle with the environmental crisis, invasion of my letterbox. so travelled to Europe by car. The French Thanks to Euro co-operation, autoroutes are excellent and uncongested, those ruthless Germans authorities could but eye-wateringly expensive. It costs £150 still be efficient enough to send me a little in tolls just to get to Provence and back. souvenir, an unjustified speeding ticket. Send your letters in to us at That’s not an environmental measure. The French don’t actually own their own Many thanks to Richard Quigley for keeping motorways; they sold them off to Meridiam, my seat warm last week. I know there's nothing [email protected] coincidentally the same people responsible like the real thing - but if he stops giving away for our very profitable (for them) Isle of all my secrets I might ask him again next time Wight PFI. I'm off on my travels. 32 Services www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020

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Appointment only 01983 217494 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 33 Observer Newport Vics B raided by Ryde as Giles hits form SportBy Peter White With the Isle of Wight Table Tennis Association Division One season almost Fixtures & Match Officials for over, Ryde Raiders had a strong win over the siblings of Newport Vics B, with the Saturday Raiders’ Timothy Giles player of the match. (Kick-off 2pm unless stated) Newport’s Sean and Anna Joyce both scored Sydenhams Wessex League, Premier Division a win each over Rob Smith and Martin Cowes Sports v Hamworthy (2pm) Johnstone respectively. Meanwhile, fellow Division One Newport team Vics A had a good victory Newport v Whitchurch Utd (3pm) over Havenstreet Hooters, winning 8-2, Laverstock and Ford v East Cowes Vics (3pm) with Newport’s Dave Hilliam winning all his The Harwoods DACIA Senior (Gold) Cup, First Round games and Kevin Gatrell the only player to get West Wight v Pan Sports – John Hopkinson on the scoreboard for Havenstreet with two The IOW County Press Challenge Cup, Second Round wins. Brading Town v Bembridge – Brian Hayward Division Two leaders Newport Vics C made Shanklin v Binstead & COB – Steve Raybould short work of Ryde Raptors, in their first The Andy Butler Sports Ground Specialist IOW Memorial season in Division Two, with a 9-1 victory, Cup, Second Round although Ryde’s Spike Hughes did gain a Adgestone v Niton Community – Ian Gordon victory over Michael Jose. Freshwater A Newport Reserves v Yarmouth & Calbourne – Keith Ruth continued their fine form as they closed Oakfield v Newchurch – Richard Mcfarlane the gap at the top with an 8-2 victory over The Ken Morris IOW Junior A Cup Shanklin B, although Shanklin’s Ted Purvey Northwood St Johns Reserves v Binstead & COB Reserves – played particularly well and was unlucky to Stephen Todd only win one game. Freshwater’s Rob Warren The UNISON IOW Junior B Cup, First Round was player of the match and leads the players’ Pan Sports Reserves v Niton Community Reserves – Andy averages on 95 per cent. Doncaster It’s tight at the top in Division Three, with The UNISON IOW Junior B Cup, Second Round Ryde Revellers leading by a point from St Bembridge Reserves v Ryde Saints A – Chris Beard Lawrence Lizards, after a thrilling match Harwoods Renault Saturday League, Division One against Ryde Rackets, which went on late into Carisbrooke United v East Cowes Sports – Andy Jones the night and ended in a well deserved draw Sandown v Northwood St Johns – Matt Sainsbury for both teams. Results: Ventnor v Whitecroft & Barton Sports – Ian Smith Division One: Newport Vics A 8, Division Two Havenstreet Hooters 2. Newport Vics B 2, Osborne Coburg v Seaview – Andy King Ryde Raiders 8. Vectis v AFC Wootton – Chris Cass Division Two: Ryde Raptors 1, Newport Vics Combination One C 9. Freshwater A 8, Shanklin B 2. East Cowes Sports v Shanklin - Dale Smith Division Three: Ryde Ramblers 0, Ryde Ryde Saints v Carisbrooke United – No Referee Rockets 10. Ryde Rackets 5, Ryde Revellers 5. Wootton Wombles 4, Ryde Regals 6. Ryde Seaview v Brading Town – Keyson Colebrook Rob Warren from Freshwater A in Division Two Whitecroft & Barton Sports v Sandown – Dave Jukes Rebels 4, Ryde Rustics 6. Combination Two Yarmouth & Calbourne v Osborne Coburg – No Referee Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club Ladies Stableford: Silver 1, Lorrie Hawkins 28 points; 2, Dawn Hodge 27; 3, Catherine Bachelor 27. Bronze 1, Brenda Keyte 28; 2, Hazel Smith 28; 3, Christine O’Brien 24. Open Stableford: 1, Ray Winter 39 points; 2, Dor Cobb 39. Saturday Open Stableford: 1, Barry Guy 37 points; 2, James Cheek 36. Knockout Cup Final The Cowes & District Snooker League Team Knockout Scratch Cup semi-finals saw WC Con beat Lib A 4-3, and Con A beat Con B 5-2. The final between Con A and WC Con will take place on Thursday, March 28. Results: Lib A 3, WC Con 4; Con B 2, Con A 5. Newport Golf Club 3 Agents (Yellow) v 3 Wise Beards (Blue) Three-Bound (orange) v 3 Upbobbyshurmda (white) Saturday Medal: 1, Yolande Farrer 69net.

Island Vecta Billiard and 3 Stars and Moon end Tres Snooker League League Week 14 Ryde B.L. 8 v Arreton 7: Tian Sleight (82) 162/1 v Kev Amigos’ winning streak Rose (71) 200/4; John Barnes (74) 200/3 v Joe Lashmar (66) 193/2; Trevor Long (50) 200/4 v Jim Marsden (101) Tres Amigos lost their unbeaten streak there were no easy opportunities for teams how to beat the league champs. 150/1. to the 3 Stars and Moon in the latest them. In other games there were round of the IW Little 3 Basketball When they did have the opportunities, comfortable victories for Rising Reds League Week 15 League. Vincent Morada top scored especially at the free throw line, they and White Beards, while Three Bound Arreton 6 v Chillerton 9: Phil Kennerley (29) 200/3 v with 16 points supported by Elbert were unable to convert them. 3 Stars overcame 3 Upbobbyshmurda 33-29 in Andy Potts (14) 181/2; Joe Lashmar (66) 190/2 v Roger Riingen and Ralph Pagador. continued to be aggressive by driving to a hard-fought contest. Packer (72) 200/3; Kevin Rose (71 168/1 v Jamie Sprake (69) Both teams started very slowly, with the basket, and taking the game to the Latest Results: 3 Upbobbyshmurda 200/4. neither getting any good looks at the Tres Amigos. They never relinquished 29, Three-Bound 33; 3 Stars and Moon Newbridge 4 v Ryde B.L. 11: Trevor Rider (118) 200/3 v basket. 3 Stars finally stopped the rot their lead and won comfortably in the 33, Tres Amigos 24; 3 Rising Reds 33, Pete Whiteman (107) 193/2; Trevor Whillier (4) 126/0 v and got on a little run which led them end against the league leaders 33-24. Three-Bound 22; 3 Wise Beards 33, 3 John Barnes (74) 200/5; Kev Whillier (-35) 172/1 v Trevor to a 10-4 lead. Tres Amigos could not Tres Amigos are still on course to win Agents 20. Long (50) 200/4 really get into any rhythm mainly due the league with a couple of rounds to to the all out hustle of the 3 stars, so go, but 3 Stars have shown the other 34 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Wrestlers warm up for big charity showdown

A healthy crowd of around 150 turned up show was put on a warm-up for a charity at Ventnor Winter Gardens to watch some showdown against the mainland Charity spectacular wrestling action in one of the Wrestling Promotion organisation that will regular shows staged at the venue, both for take place in Southampton on March 8. 18-plus and all the family. The next Outcast Pro Wrestling show on The majority of the wrestlers were Island- the Island is an 18-plus night on March 22 at based members of Outcast Pro Wrestling, Strings Bar and Venue, Newport. with a sprinkling of mainlanders, and the

IW RFC overcome Saints and Dennis to storm to victory Isle of Wight 33 points of a try, giving Southampton a penalty, and a Southampton 5 much needed breather from the unrelenting IW attack. The half time whistle was In the only Hampshire One match not to be welcomed by both teams as tempers flared, postponed by Storm Dennis, bottom side giving the two sides an opportunity to cool Southampton travelled to Wootton Rec for heads and warm bodies back in the changing what would be an interesting game of rugby, room with IW leading 21-5 at the break. with both teams battling against 60 mile per Southampton rarely got ball in hand outside hour winds and heavy rain. their own 22 for the second half. Several Southampton opted to play into the wind for good collections from Biffa man of the match the first half, and IW opened the scoring early Alex Hay put IW in an excellent position to with Luke Blackman weaving his way through see out the match, despite playing against the defence, and Lewis Murray converting. both Southampton and Storm Dennis for the However, a Southampton breakaway attack second half. let them back into the game with an excellent Nick Joyce secured the bonus point try, score. The conversion attempt was taken by while a fifth touchdown followed near the the wind and struck the post, so IW held a end courtesy of prop Martin Newnham, also narrow 7-5 advantage. in prolific form this season. The final whistle Lesson learnt by IW, any idleness was saw IW pleased with mining a bonus-point shaken off, and they soon slotted back victory in atrocious conditions, though into their structure, producing nothing but concerned by an ankle injury sustained by no. forward movement towards the opposition 8 Luke Blackman. try line. There were two further tries in Having secured a bonus point win from the first half, with George Huish and Luke every game played in 2020, IW sit sixth in Blackman both continuing their excellent the table, four points behind third. They look try-scoring form. There should have been to take their winning form to Portsmouth another, had Rouse Man of the Match Grant II this weekend, and to make amends for Smith not let his frustrations out on his a disappointing home loss to the same opposite number after falling inches short opposition late last year. 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 35 Island Indoor bowlers in form to reach National Area final

Frances Katirewa Hayley Katirewa

Action from the semi-final Island Tae Kwon-Do In the area semi final of the Men’s National Fours the Isle of Barry Rodwell won their last five ends to come home 19 shots Wight Indoor Bowls team of Paul Dickinson, Peter Furmidge to 14 victors over Tricia McMurray, Val Croucher, Peggy White members among the (substituting for Alan Cawdell), Darren Griffith and Jack and Margaret Carrett. Berry played an away match against A. Kenway, A. Adair, L. Winners for the ladies side were Angela West, Kate Clark, Manning and J. Garner of the Dolphin Club, Poole. Shirley Searle and Janet Ince who led throughout against Pat medals at Swindon After conceding a four on the first end, the Islanders soon Hartigan, Graham Kilby, John Hutchinson and John Ince to Five members of the Isle of Wight Tae Kwon-Do Club gained the advantage. By the halfway stage they looked on finish 22 shots to 20 ahead. Daphne Lacey, Jane Swinfield, travelled to Swindon to take part in the PUMA (Professional their way to a comfortable win as led by 15 shots to eight. Ann Hoath and Steff Ball took on Ian Hampshire, Mike Union of Martial Arts) 2020 Open International Tae Kwon-Do But scoring seven shots without reply, the home team came Davidson, Alan Scovell and John Carrett. The ladies were Tournament. back strongly to level the scores with three ends left to play. three shots adrift at the halfway point, but over the next four The event attracted around 400 competitors and got off to However, scoring on each of these ends, Berry’s team went ends they scored 11 shots without reply to make a substantial a great start with Joe Ramskill winning gold in the Men's 1st through to the area final with a 20 shots to 15 success. contribution to their 20 shots to 17 success. and 2nd degree Black Belt pattern category. Patterns are a set The IW Club took on outdoor club Ryde in a home six- of pre-arranged techniques for defence and attack and points rink friendly fixture and took full advantage of the match are awarded for correct technique, power and focus when being played on their own green. Winning on all rinks they performing. finished ahead by 131 shots to 84. Angela West, Jan Easlea, The good start continued with Chief Instructor, Pete Scotcher Pete Swinfield and Paul Green came out with a 22 shots winning gold in the Men's 5th degree Black Belt and above to 11 victory, followed closely by Eileen Hampshire, Mike category, beating a 6th degree Black Belt in the final to claim Davidson, Ted West and Gay Allen who finished 11 shots to his fifth International title. Next came the Black Belt sparring the good. groups with Joe Ramskill narrowly missing out on a podium A 26 shots to 17 success was recorded by Bob Stubbs, Alan place and Pete Scotcher winning bronze in his category. Davis, Brenda Rodwell and team Captain Roy Jemson. There The afternoon saw the arrival of the colour belt groups was an 18 shots to 11 win for Daphne Lacey, Val Addison, Jeff and tournament debutant, Arthur Poucher won bronze in Johnson and Paul Dyer whereas Jane Swinfield, Bernie Allen, his pattern group and fought with great skill and heart in Ian Vallender and John Ince came home to the good by 21 the final of his sparring group and won gold in his first ever shots to 15. The only rink that was behind in the early stages, tournament. Malcolm Addison, Ian Hampshire, Peggy White and Shirley Another tournament newcomer, Frances Katirewa, won Stubbs recovered from being six shots adrift at the halfway bronze in a tough and high standard patterns group and stage to come home victors by 21 shots to 19. showed no nerves in her sparring group and won silver after a The Men’s vice captain’s team took on the Ladies’ vice closely fought final. captain’s team and the former came home with a 134 shots In the last events of the day, Hayley Katirewa, performed to 108 victory. Steve Stokes, Philip Oland, Ted West and Roy very well in her patterns group against much higher grades Jemson finished 28 shots to 17 ahead of Annie Morris, Jane and was unlucky not to get a podium place. However, she Kilby, Liz Allen and Pauline Proud. There was a 23 shots to more than made up for it by winning her sparring final against 15 victory for Bob Stubbs, Alan Davis, Mark Morris and Colin a higher grade and much heavier and hard hitting opponent. Hoath over Eileen Hampshire, Auriol Ash, Brenda Rodwell The final tally was four gold, one silver and three bronze and and Shirley Stubbs. everyone did themselves and the club proud. Others to come home by eight shots were Gary Rodger, Alan Isle of Wight Tae Kwon-Do has been running for over Bugby, Terry Humber and Pete Allen who defeated Sandra 21 years now and has classes across the Island, six days a Scovell, Pat Bugby, Barbara Moye and Carol Jones by 27 shots week. Further details can be found at www.iowtkd.com and to 19. Seamus Morris, Norman Cooper, Pete Swinfield and Darren Griffith helping his team reach the Fours Area final beginners are welcome with the first lesson free at all venues. Adam tucks in despite Dennis the menace! Often knee high mud and equally as high competing with competitors negotiating the puddles with relentless wind and drizzle, due 10km course which went around Ashley and to Storm Dennis, didn’t stop Ryde Harriers Nunwell areas. Despite Storm Dennis being Adam Tuck from taking first place in the Isle in full force the race still went ahead. of Wight Cross Country Championships at There were also a few IWRR age category Smallbrook. prizes, with Simon Riley the second vet40; Tuck clocked a time of 0:44:43 with IW Road Steve Bennett first vet60 and Judy McCabe, Runners Andy Wheeler (045:07) and Ross the only IW Road Runner in the race, finishing Wilkes (0:45:22) taking second and third second vet35 as well as a brilliant fourth place respectively. Wheeler and Wilkes, along with lady overall. Simon Riley secured first place in the men’s Kaitlin Wilson (unattached) took the win for team category, the third year in a row they the females in 0:59:51 with Wight Tri’s Mary have claimed it. Norman (1:00:41) and Lucy Doorly (1:02:13) On his club debut for IWRR, Wheeler said close behind. Ellen Kulik (1:15:48) finished afterwards: “It was incredibly tough, every the trio to give Wight Tri the trophy for first step I took I sunk further in the field. Classic ladies team. The third and final race of the British cross country weather!” series is this weekend. Isle of Wight Road Runners had 12 runners 36 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Brading battle back for victory amid concerns over fixtures

Brading hit back from being two goals down has been unbelievable. But we are behind in group of players and a wonderful committee when Aaron Bennett’s effort hit a post and to secure a 5-2 victory over Bembridge in our fixtures as we are still competing in four but you do worry about the future.” James Phipps followed in to score. Then club the Harwoods Renault IW League, Division cups as well. We have actually not postponed In their game against Bembridge, Brading captain Dan Vale scored the goal of the game One, with the game being switched to Cowes a first team home league fixture yet. had Will Hunt and Matt Bennett injured, from 25 yards to make sure Brading took Enterprise College. “We could have played at least three or Aaron Burford still suspended and Matty maximum points. The teams meet again But after the victory Brading took to social four more games if we had been able to play Oatley and Harris Payne away, and against tomorrow (Sat) in the IW Challenge Cup. media complaining they were being given midweek games under lights in September the run of play Bembridge took the lead in The only other Division One game to take home games knowing their pitch would not and October before the weather became when Ben Gearing’s clearance cannoned off a place saw Binstead and COB beat Carisbrooke be playable, and it was costing the club money really bad. That would have brought us up to striker and into the net. Soon after it was 2-0 United 4-0, thanks to goals from Lewis to stage games on an alternative pitch. about 18 games and in line with most of the when Brading failed to clear a corner. Wetherick, Darren Powell, Ryan Marchbank A Facebook post said: “So despite the fact other clubs.” But they began to get their way back into and Jacob Morley. Binstead were full of praise that we advised the ‘powers that be’ that It added: “We will be expected to play three the game when George Colson found Luke for Carisbrooke on social media, giving them our pitch would be unplayable we have been games a week at the end of the season, with Hitchcox in the box and he scored with a well ‘massive thanks’ for hosting the game in handed another home fixture. We have done 6pm kick offs when players will be rushing taken finish, and just before half time they awful conditions, so it could go ahead. all we can to get games played which has from work to play games possibly Tuesday, levelled when Sam Knowles finished well In the only other junior match played on the come as a huge cost to the club. Not only we Wednesday, Thursday - injuries, suspensions, again from a Colson assist. Island at the weekend, Newchurch Reserves have had to hire an alternative but also lost work commitments, family commitments Shortly after the restart, Brading took the secured only their second victory of the revenue from the tea bar and the bar. not considered. And people wonder why led for the first time as another Colson assist season by beating AFC Wootton Reserves 3-2 We are not the only club that have these the game at this level is struggling. We are led to Ryan Oatley scoring his third goal in in Combination Two. issues with the pitch - the weather this year fortunate at Brading that we have a good four games. They extended their advantage 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 37 Lake Farm Jumping Series event proved a big success

The Lake Farm Winter they were of all who took part Jumping Series event at despite the wet conditions. Lake Farm proved highly Harriet Young went on to successful, with rosettes win the combined training galore handed out to the for the month of February, riders for their prowess in the bagging herself £50. jumping series. The event was very well supported with Photos by Keith Pollard organisers saying how proud 38 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 Island swimmer Joe is double gold medallist

Gareth Bricknell Teachers’ football match to raise cash for charity Isle of Wight teachers are coming together to many teachers across the Island interested play a charity football match to raise money in playing. It will be a great match and we for Sport Relief and The Wight Brainy Bunch. hope to see lots of people supporting on the The match, Primary School v Secondary evening.” Joe Carter School teachers is taking place at Cowes Gareth Bricknell (pictured), PE teacher at Sports Football Club on Tuesday, March 10, The Bay CE School, said: “Students from Isle of Wight swimmer Joe medal in the 100 freestyle to get ready for the South kick off 6.30pm. both primary and secondary schools are very Carter is Hampshire County and recorded a season’s best East Regional Finals at High Admission is £3 for adults and £1 for under excited to cheer their teacher on; it will be Champion for the 100-metre in the 50m fly to claim his Wycombe in May. 16s. The teams comprise teachers who play a great event raising money for two great Freestyle and 50-metre second gold. He also picked Joe is a member of football at a range of standards including the charities.” Butterfly events. Joe, who up two bronze medals for Seaclose Swimming Club, Wessex Premier League and the Island league The organisers would like to thank Cowes has only just turned 15, pulled 50m and 100m Breaststroke, where he trains 14 hours to keen leisure footballers. Sports Football Club for offering to host the off his brilliant achievements again with superb PB’s in a week and then in the Tom Dye, PE teacher at Medina College, charity match free of charge on reputedly the in the Hampshire County both. gym for an additional six said: “We are really pleased to have so best pitch on the Isle of Wight. Swimming Championships Unfortunately on the hours a week. Last year which was held in the second day of racing, Joe had he also won three golds 50-metre pool at the to pull out of the rest of the at the Hampshire County Mountbatten Centre, competition due to a neck Championships in the 50m Portsmouth. and shoulder muscle injury freestyle, 100m freestyle IW Seconds show plenty of Joe, who lives in Ryde and after qualifying for the finals. and 100m backstroke, and attends Ryde Academy, He will now concentrate claimed a silver in the 50m smashed his previous on recovering, and repairing freestyle and bronze 50m spirit in defeat by Nomads personal best time by 1.5 the injury and will be back butterfly at the 2019 English seconds to pick up the gold to training once fully fit Championships. IW Seconds nil IW knew the game was far from over if they Southsea Nomads 19 points could win territory. Yet the Nomads back three proved adept at covering the backfield, Despite the challenge posed by Storm Dennis returning IW kicks capably and ensuring that and extremely heavy conditions, IW seconds they were never pinned back in their own and Nomads served up a good Hampshire Two half for too long. Another IW yellow card contest at Wootton Rec. Nomads managed did not help their cause, as the otherwise the conditions better and fully deserved the excellent referee harshly binned Biffa man of win, but IW had much to be proud of after the match Tom Groves. The loss of Pudney standing toe to toe with their high-flying and the powerful Louis Herbert, and of course opposition for the whole game. the impressive performance of Nomads, IW faced the storm in the first half but combined to make sure the home side never played textbook rugby for most of it, starving got the momentum they needed to rescue the Nomads of possession for the first 15 minutes game. with direct driving play through the forwards, As time wore on, IW opted to throw caution with Fountain Inn man of the match Callum to the wind and spread the ball slightly wider, Pudney outstanding. However, the visitors which in the conditions was doomed to did have some success in winning turnovers failure except from one fantastic move which at the tackle area, and looked dangerous Nomads scrambled to keep their line intact. when they did have hands on the ball. Entering the final 15 minutes, a loose chip kick IW defence was strong, but a key moment was gathered by the victors, who ruthlessly arrived around the 20 minute mark when their and skilfully manufactured the final score of fly-half and Rouse man of the match Gary the game to put the outcome beyond doubt. Warvill was sin-binned for an illegal tackle. They now move into second place, with an Nomads made full use of the 10 minutes with eye on promotion to Hampshire One. a man advantage, applying pressure to the IW IW now look to a home game against line and earning two converted tries. This got Bognor 2nds on Saturday, February 29, and them to half-time with a 14-0 lead. an opportunity to gain their first win of 2020. The strength of the breeze was such that 21st February 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 39 Ryde 2 beat Northwood 2 to make it a club double

Wight Orienteering invite new recruits

Wight Orienteering is looking for participants for their next event, which is being held at St Catherine’s Down, Chale, on Sunday, March 15. Orienteering, which has grown in popularity over the years, is a sport which all people of any age can enjoy in the open countryside, forest, woods and downland. It helps people become more active in body and mind and improves confidence. It has been called ‘the thinking person’s sport’, and is one the whole family can enjoy, and can be an easy walk along paths or an exciting, adventurous run through countryside and forests. As you become more experienced in the sport you become more competitive and can go to larger mainland events, which can be one, two, five or six days long. It also provides the opportunity to go to some great places, not only Ryde 2’s made it a club bowled out for just 66 with not out). The other game tie, which will be played at in places such as Scotland, Wales, the Lake District and the West double as they just held John Jones (3-5) and Ben in Div 1 saw EPP (151-1) Rew Valley Sports Centre, Country, but also to Europe, Canada, Norway and of course, Sweden off Cowes to win Division Baker (2-10) doing the hold on to second place as Ventnor (2.30pm start) is where the sport was born. It was introduced to this country in 1959 Two of the Leslies Motors damage. Northwood lost they overcame Shanklin a re-match of the game by a man called Baron Lagerfelt of Stockholm. Indoor Cricket League. three wickets but strolled & Godshill 2 (125-2) by 26 played last year when Wight Orienteers hold an event every two months of the year Following Ryde 1’s success to their target in just nine runs. Not outs from EPP’s Dorset county competition except in July and August when they have Quiz Walks. by taking the Division One overs. Island Bakeries Ali Wheble 25, Zeph Wells winners Bashley hit the The event on March 15 is on a venue never previously used, and crown, it was the turn of remained without a win as 35, Dan Cox 25 and Oscar runs in the last over to has only just recently been surveyed and a new map produced. their second string to take they went down to Brading Vandecasteele 27 proved win by five wickets. Ryde Registration is from 10am to 12 noon, and starts from 10.30am to the glory as they defeated by 14 runs. Alan Johns (28) too much for the Westhill will be underdogs against 12 noon. Northwood 2 in the final and Mark Hartnell (40) side whose score was led the current ECB Southern Parking and assembly is signed from Blackgang Roundabout – over and take enough were both unbeaten as they by 29 not out from Seb Premier League champions SZ488769 points to just pip Cowes, led the way for Brading Egerton-Read. but have a full squad to The courses are either short for beginners and inexperienced who are runners up for the who scored 145-3. Bakeries Ryde take on Bashley choose from including orienteers, or long for experienced competitors. second season in a row. fought hard but could only (Rydal) on Sunday in the Dave Pratt who top scored Cost: BOF and local adult club members £3, adult non-members Cowes had earlier put reply with 131-5 (Tony next round of the National with 50 in the game last £5, Groups £6, Juniors £1 their stamp on the evening Cook 26, Matt Stafford 25 Indoor competition. The year. Dogs must be kept on leads. See www.wighto.org.uk for further by hammering Ventnor details. by 71 runs. Cowes hit 159- 3 with Josh Rice 28 not Leslies Motors Indoor Cricket League out and Jack Summers 35 Final Positions not out dominating the scoring. Ventnor were P Won Tied Lost Bonus Pts Pts then bowled out for just Division One 88 which meant Ryde 2 Ryde 1 10 8 1 1 82 167 had to secure at least six IW Cricket Board EPP 10 7 1 2 56 131 points from their game Northwood 1 10 5 1 4 71 126 against Northwood 2. Brading 10 5 0 5 55 105 They reached their goal by Shanklin & Godshill 1 10 3 1 6 56 91 losing just three wickets Island Bakeries 10 0 0 10 40 40 as they chased down the Northwood 2 total of 111-5 Division Two in the final over thanks to Ryde 2 8 8 0 0 67 147 Geoff Kite (26 not out) and Cowes 8 7 0 1 63 133 skipper Tom Roscoe (27 Ryde School 8 5 0 3 36 96 not out). Shanklin & Godshill 2 8 5 0 3 45 95 Meanwhile, Ryde 1’s Newport 8 4 0 4 41 91 unbeaten season came Prison Officers 8 3 0 5 42 72 to an end as they fell to Ventnor 8 3 0 5 33 63 a three-wicket defeat by Northwood 2 8 1 0 7 30 40 Northwood 1. Ryde were IW Cricket Board Disability 8 0 0 8 21 21 40 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 21st February 2020 This week’s highlights... Observer Indoor Cricket Swimming Ryde complete Golden smiles the double for Joe Carter SportBy Peter White 39 38 Kim dedicates ‘World’ call up to her grandad

Kim Murray from Binstead has been jumping is at the end.” competing in her final World Cup race of the birthday, so I shall soon be heading home to for joy this week after learning she has been Kim is overjoyed by her selection, even season in Latvia, where she finished 10th give her a present.” selected to represent Great Britain at the though she admits her winter season has overall, her second best result of the season, Winter Games World Championships in the not gone according to plan. She explained: after being down in 17th place following the skeleton event. “At the start of the season my grandad was first run. Kim, 31, will be part of the three-woman really ill so I came home to spend some time She smiled: “I had a few things to fix after British team competing in the daredevil with him, and missed a lot of the pre-season the first run. You never know how it will go skeleton sliding, which sees competitors training. as you jump on the skeleton at the start. But racing down an ice course, face down on a “Sadly grandad died on November 5, as you go down the run you begin to know if sled not much bigger than a tin tray, reaching which was the day of I was in Norway for it’s going well, or if you are losing speed. In speeds of up to 80mph. our selection races. I came straight home, the end it was my personal best time for the It is a dream come true for Kim who plans to and it was a really difficult time for me. But track, and my second best result of the year.” dedicate her achievement to her grandfather, as the season went on I began to feel more She added: “I was told after the race that I had who sadly died in November. She will be comfortable in myself, and that was when been selected for the World Championships. I taking part in the skeleton in Altenberg, the good results started coming. was very happy and relieved because I didn’t Germany, on February 28 and 29, alongside “I just had to keep plugging away, and make the team last year, and I was really team mates Laura Deas and Madeleine over the last month I have had results I am upset. So I didn’t get my hopes up too high, Smith, and currently the 17th ranked slider really pleased with. I would have loved to tell but now I’m very excited to be going to my in the world; she is hoping to finish in at grandad about the good results. It would have first World Championships. That was my goal least the top 16. She said: “That has been been lovely to share them with him, because for this season, and now I want to go there my goal for every race this year, and I’m not he was such a proud grandad. I know I can’t and get a good result. going to change it just because it’s the World but he will be in my thoughts at the World “This is my last event until probably Championships. Basically I will just work Championships.” October, so I plan to get back to the Island hard to slide well, and see what the number Kim learned of her selection shortly after as often as possible. I missed my mum’s