27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 1

Isle of Wight FREESTAY HOME, SAVE LIVES The Island’s Only Locally Owned Newspaper Friday 27th March 2020 Observeriwobserver.co.uk Issue No.82 New helpline Volunteer to help Your local for Island the NHS helpline residents numbers next page next page 17

Information leaflet from the Isle of Wight Council Public Information www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020

Local Support This new dedicated coronavirus Support for Island businesses and employers (Covid-19) website www. The government has set out a package • grant funding of £25,000 for retail, available via the council’s website. iowcoronavirus.co.uk provides of targeted measures to support hospitality and leisure businesses These include areas such as: information on the local support businesses, employers and employees with property with a rateable value Licensing (including ensuring licences and community eforts available through the period of disruption caused between £15,000 and £51,000; held by businesses are renewed); in your area. by Covid-19. • the Coronavirus Business Environmental Health (including Let’s all help to keep everyone safe These measures are regularly being Interruption Loan Scheme ofering ensuring your business is following the and accessing the services they updated through government loans of up to £5 million for SMEs appropriate regulations if you are now need. announcements, with details posted through the British Business Bank; undertaking home deliveries of meals on its website at: https://www.gov.uk/ • a new lending facility from the Bank etc); The website allows you to search government/publications/guidance- of England to help support liquidity Trading Standards (for advice on product by location to fnd out what help is to-employers-and-businesses-about- among larger frms, helping them safety, weights and measures or age available in your local area. covid-19 bridge coronavirus disruption to related products for home delivery); It also includes supporting They are also signposted by the Isle of their cash fows through loans; Planning Services (including how the resources for health and wellbeing, Wight Council via its own website www. • the HMRC Time To Pay Scheme. government is relaxing some aspects of NHS Covid-19 support, employers iow.gov.uk/covid19_businessadvice, As further government details and planning to help businesses). and businesses and benefts and with additional localised advice for Island announcements emerge, including This information will be added to as welfare help. businesses on registering their details for on accessing the key funding support, further government details emerge. funding support. updates will be provided on the council’s Council leader, Councillor Dave Stewart, The government-announced measures website. said: “We are doing our utmost to Do you want to include: If you think your business qualifes for speed up the processes for our Island volunteer? • a Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme; these measures of fnancial support, businesses, large and small and the self- Do you think you might be able • deferring VAT and Income Tax please use this online form: http:// employed, to access funding support. payments; www.iow.gov.uk/iwforms/bussupc19. This includes ensuring we have the latest to help our Island community • a Statutory Sick Pay relief package for Application form for support for information from businesses on their during the coronavirus (Covid-19) SMEs; businesses afected by Covid-19 details to facilitate payment. pandemic by becoming a • a 12-month business rates holiday (Coronavirus) to provide details to “We are acutely aware of how vital volunteer? for all retail, hospitality, leisure and assist us with the processing of relevant cashfow is for Island businesses to If yes, please complete this form nursery businesses in England; payments. operate in these extraordinary times and www.iowcoronavirus.co.uk/form/ • small business grant funding of Other key advice for businesses are trying to ensure all the necessary Your details will be passed on to £10,000 for all business in receipt of There is also key advice on other council support is in place to assist them.” charities and community groups small business rate relief or rural rate services afecting your business at working on the Isle of Wight relief; this time, with the latest information to support people through the Covid-19 crisis. You are not committing yourself to anything, simply saying you New helpline to support are happy to be contacted by organisations who are looking for volunteers. vulnerable Islanders A new helpline number is volunteering to help those in now available to support the need over the past couple of Citizens Advice Isle Island’s most vulnerable weeks. of Wight can help residents afected by the “Thanks to everyone who coronavirus (Covid-19) self- has come forward to ofer with issues around isolation measures. help – including those People who do not have a who responded to the money, benefts and local network of friends Isle of Wight Coronavirus employment or family to support them Community Help group while they are self-isolating on Facebook, who we are Due to the current restrictions on or social distancing can call working alongside.” social isolation and the increase (01983) 823600 (seven days The partnership is trying to in demand, no face-to-face a week, 9am to 5pm). keep in contact with those it appointments are available. The helpline has been put knows are high risk to make The following support numbers in place by the Isle of Wight sure they are safe, healthy and online resources are available. Council in partnership and supported — and where • Advice line number is 03444 with the Island’s voluntary necessary, ofering this help. 111 444 — be prepared to leave networks, including Please note that none of the a message and you will get a Community Action Isle of partnership will ever ask you call back. Wight, Citizens Advice Isle for bank or other fnancial • Chat online www. of Wight and Age UK Isle details. citizensadvice.org.uk/about- of Wight, to support those Jo Dare, from Isle of Wight us/contact-us/contact-us/ who meet the coronavirus Age UK, said: “Working web-chat-service/ — this ‘vulnerable’ criteria. together means that those service is in high demand Mike Bulpitt, from most in need of help can be and someone will respond as Community Action Isle supported in the right way quickly as possible. of Wight, said: “We are and at the right time.” • Make an enquiry on using the working together to make it Council Leader, Councillor, webform at https://islehelp. as simple and easy for people Dave Stewart, said: “The me/contact/ who need help and support coronavirus is a national • Consumer advice is on 0808 to get hold of someone who emergency which means we 223 1133. can help. Initially we want must all pull together to help • If you are in real hardship you to make sure that people those in need. can apply for support through have access to groceries and “If you need help because ‘Help Through Crisis’ medications to keep them of self-isolation, please https://islehelp.me/help-through- safe and supported during get in touch. Or, if you are crisis/ or phone (01983) 823859. this uncertain time. healthy and able to help “We have a large network of by volunteering, please caring volunteers between get in touch as well by us and many more people emailing volunteer@ We can all help but actioniw.org.uk.” help safely have shown an interest in When going out to get yourself food and medication, think to help family members, friends or neighbours that need supplies and are unable to do this themselves; try not to make two separate trips. Make sure you are two metres apart when out and about. When delivering items for someone who is in isolation, ensure this is left on the doorstep for their safety and yours. 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 3

Isle of Wight FREESTAY HOME, SAVE LIVES The Island’s Only Locally Owned Newspaper Friday 27th March 2020 Observeriwobserver.co.uk Issue No.82 Island animal Plans for new attractions coastal path need help 4 7 COMMENT by Carole Dennett Proprietor, IW Observer We are living through unprecedented times and for all small businesses the future is Sign of the times uncertain. Pubs, restaurants and attractions are closed, along with all non-essential shops. Many other commercial premises are closed or closing, and domestic work for tradesmen is drying up. The pictures on this page show the stark reality of the new restrictions on our lives. Your Isle of Wight Observer started life on August 10, 2018 as a community newspaper reporting with a positive outlook on life on the Island. My small team have worked long and hard to get it off the ground and have improved it along the way. I’m proud of them. We chose that our newspaper should be free, funded by affordable advertising from local companies. We all love this newspaper. There’s no big, multi-national business behind us - we are independent, locally-owned and proud of it. We know from feedback that our loyal readers also love the IW Observer. As you can imagine the fallout from the coronavirus epidemic has hit us hard. Many Island businesses aren’t trading for a while, some are treading water, others are quickly diversifying, but they are all worried for their future. We intend to continue publishing throughout this crisis, but understandably many of our advertisers are unable to make commitments without knowing what the future holds. Our previously healthy advertising order book has been devastated. We plan to be here for you, our readers next week and through all the difficult weeks to come. But without any income from a cover price we will face some hard choices, as will every other small Island business. If a time comes when we don’t publish, you can be sure that it will only be a temporary suspension, and NOT a permanent closure. We would come back, stronger, brighter and better than ever - just as soon as possible. Whatever the future holds we want to thank all the advertisers, contributors, distribution points and especially you, our readers who have brought us this far. Now, more than ever before, the Island needs to pull together. Take care and stay safe. 2 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020

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Crossword Answers - P.22 called off until 2021

Dissect, 17. Glider, 18. Pages, 19. Dover, 21. Abash. Abash. 21. Dover, 19. Pages, 18. Glider, 17. Dissect, The Isle of Wight Festival, I don’t think the situation and we extend our sincere Look out for an email from

5. Druid, 6. Pimento, 7. Dixie, 13. Erudite, 15. Currant, 16. 16. Currant, 15. Erudite, 13. Dixie, 7. Pimento, 6. Druid, 5. due to take place in June, has is going to change between apologies to everyone who them very soon and please

Defend, 4. Sunrise, 3. Clown, 2. Alarmed, 1. : Down been cancelled. Although the now and June. was looking forward to it as only contact them if you have

decision appeared inevitable “The Festival has not been much as we were. not been contacted after five

20. Lariats, 22. Grieved, 23. Adage, 24. Spear, 25. Ratchet. Ratchet. 25. Spear, 24. Adage, 23. Grieved, 22. Lariats, 20. because of the coronavirus postponed until a later date "The safety of our audience, days as they are very busy at

10. Mansion, 11. Dunce, 12. Deeper, 14. Accord, 18. Pound, Pound, 18. Accord, 14. Deeper, 12. Dunce, 11. Mansion, 10. threat, it comes as a huge this year, it is cancelled artists, crew and the Isle this time.

Flummox, 9. Acorn, 8. Duped, 5. Accused, 1. : Across disappointment for the tens until 2021, when we hope to of Wight community is “If you booked ferry travel of thousands of music fans return in June. Fingers and paramount and we appreciate with Red Funnel, Wightlink who descend on the Island everything crossed, it will your patience whilst we’ve or Hovertravel please go to each year for the iconic be in business as usual next been working through this the Isle of Wight Festival Find Bob, our friendly squirrel! event. Among the star names year.” unprecedented situation. website for information Bob our friendly little squirrel usually sits quietly due to appear this year were Later on an official Festival We’ll be back stronger than regarding your booking. We on the windowsill in our office until he decides Lionel Richie, Duran Duran statement said: "This ever in 2021 and we hope to hope everyone stays safe and where he wants to hide in the paper. This week and Lewis Capaldi. decision hasn't been taken see you all again next year. we’ll see you in 2021.” the IW Observer team are all working from home Festival organiser John lightly and we have tried our “We are working closely For anyone who has bought and Bob went missing. He sent us a note which Giddings told the IW Observer: hardest to make it work, but with our ticketing partners at a Festival ticket through The said : “I’m going home and staying indoors until it’s safe to “It is very sad that we have it was unavoidable given the the moment and they will be Price is Wight, or is using a come out. I know lots of our wonderful advertisers who put had to call off the Festival, current status. The whole in touch very soon to process Payment Plan should contact up the prizes for finding me are having a difficult time at the but we have had to do it for team was excited to welcome your refund, or, if you prefer, them through email: www. moment, so I’m going to have a bit of a rest. Once things are public safety. We held on everyone to the Island for you can retain your ticket thepriceiswight.co.uk sorted out I’ll be back to hide in the paper every week. In the for as long as we could, but another fantastic festival and carry it over to next year. meantime, stay safe everybody and see you soon.” 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 3

News in brief IW NHS Trust chief warns: Elections postponed The election for the Police we know surge in very unwell and Crime Commissioner for the Hampshire Police area has been postponed to May 6 next year. By- elections due to be held people is imminently coming in April for Shanklin and Ryde Town Councils have been cancelled. Arrangements to fill the vacancies will be provided in due course. Bedroom fre in Newport

Island fire crews responded to a blaze in a bedroom at a Newport house in the early hours of yesterday morning (Thurs). Three pumps, two from Newport and one from Cowes, were called to the property in Caesars Road. Two people Maggie Oldham in the bedroom on the first floor managed to Maggie Oldham, Chief Executive “We know that many people staff and equipment to deal with the By working together, looking out escape, and crews used of IW NHS Trust has issued a stark affected by coronavirus require very real emergency that’s coming. for one another, with kindness and breathing apparatus and warning that St Mary’s Hospital is critical care support, and here at Please do not come to St Mary’s compassion, we will get through this two hose reels to put out braced for ‘a surge in very unwell St Mary’s we are increasing the Hospital or Sevenacres without and with the support of our wonderful the fire. people, bringing the the greatest number of critical care beds we have contacting us first. Island community we will get challenge our health service has ever available. That means more intensive “Everyone at the hospital, in our through. Do what the Government is faced’. care beds, more ventilators and lots ambulance service, our community telling us. Stay at home, protect the Bonfre left In a statement to the community of training for staff. We've created teams and in mental health have NHS and save lives.” Ms Oldham has urged residents to a new isolation ward, and we have been working extremely hard. I She added: “We are hugely grateful unattended continue following Government plans for more isolation wards to have been on the wards with them for the flood of donations and gifts; guidelines to stay at home whenever open as they are needed. and seen it first hand; I am hugely they mean a huge amount to us. But A large bonfire, left possible as the staff at St Mary’s “Huge amounts of training have grateful. But for those who we do please let us know in advance so we unattended in Yarmouth, continue their relentless fight been going on all over the Trust to need to come into work, we will can manage the deliveries. Details are had to be tackled against the threat of coronavirus. prepare our teams for what is coming be making staff meals and parking on our website. Please do not come to by firefighters on She said: “At the moment the in the days and weeks ahead.We are free to make their days just a little St Mary’s Hospital or Sevenacres. Wednesday afternoon. number of cases on the Isle of Wight recruiting more NHS 111 call handlers bit easier, recognising that many “To the NHS staff hard at work, The crews were called remains relatively low compared to to support people in isolation at families are going to suffer financial to our colleagues in social care, at to Halletts Shute after a much of the country. But this will home.” hardship over the coming period. the hospice, in schools and in all of resident’s smoke alarm change and we are expecting more Ms Oldham continued: “To help “But I cannot stress enough that the essential roles that support our went off nearby, and the people to become unwell as a result protect patients, staff and the even with all this work and all of effort to fight this virus, thank you. person who called the of coronavirus. community we have announced strict our professionalism, we know And thank you to the Isle of Wight fire service could not We are doing everything possible to restrictions on visitors to St Mary’s that a surge in very unwell people community for supporting us and understand why. prepare and we ask the public to help and Sevenacres. We have closed the is imminently coming. There is for following the government's us by following the Government’s restaurant in St Mary’s to non NHS no doubt that this is the greatest instruction to stay at home, protect instruction to stay at home, protect staff, and we have closed the Friends challenge that our health service has the NHS and save lives.” the NHS and save lives.We have used of St Mary’s shop and café. ever faced. The Isle of Wight NHS Trust website the current time to make sure we are “We have also postponed all non- “It is going to be very difficult but is: www.iow.nhs.uk as ready as possible. urgent operations, to free up beds, we will meet the challenge head on. 4 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Island animal attractions appeal for financial help

Monkey Haven Amazon World The Island’s top animal attractions, the Isle of Wight Zoo, worrying time for Islanders, but some of our amazing animals Co-ordinating public Amazon World, The Monkey Haven, the IW Reptilarium simply will not survive unless we are able to raise funds to pay and the IW Donkey Sanctuary are all appealing for help to for their upkeep. transport response save their precious animals after being forced to close their "Anything you can spare will be gratefully received and premises under current Government guidelines. when we are able to open our doors again we look forward to The Isle of Wight Transport their level of service due to With funds from admission having dried up, all the sharing our wonderful animals with you. Their crowdfunder Infrastructure Board is reductions in the level of attractions are deeply concerned about how they can continue website is not charging any fees so any money will go directly taking steps to co-ordinate demand. Strict competition to keep their animals safe, and provide them with the proper to benefit the animals.” how public transport rules to prevent the ferry food they need to survive. Now they have asked Islanders to You can donate at crowdfunder.co.uk/save-our-animals-1/. on the Island can best operators working together step in to help, and try to avoid a desperate situation. The Founder of Monkey Haven, Don Walser, said: “All our respond to the challenges have been relaxed to enable The Isle of Wight Zoo, home of The Wildheart Trust, sent out animals will continue to receive the same exemplary care and posed by the coronavirus them to discuss how they can a message saying: “We are a charity and cannot stress enough love throughout this period. However financially, we have to epidemic. The Board continue to provide a lifeline how important your support is to our Zoo. We rely on visitors admit that it will be a real struggle. We know that so many of welcomed the designation service during this period. and visitation and there are many challenges ahead of us as you will have your own struggles too. However if you are able of public transport staff as The discussions will take we face a period of reduced visitation. to support us, at this very difficult time, then we would be ‘key workers’, which will place under the auspices of “We rely on donations and visitors to our Zoo. Without your so grateful and have set up a fundraising page. Please check enable their children to the Transport Infrastructure support we couldn’t look after our animals here, or continue Facebook where we will try our best to help raise morale continue attending school if Board which was set up in our conservation partnerships protecting wildlife in India, by posting updates on all the amazing rescued animals at necessary. 2016. Madagascar and on the Isle of Wight. Monkey Haven.” All operators are reviewing “If you’d like to help please donate at crowdfunder. Reptilarium say that coming out of the long winter season, co.uk/wildheart-trust or become a member and join us on their cash reserves are depleted, adding: “It’s looking very our journey once we reopen to protect animals for future much like a sustained lock down in the weeks and months generations.” ahead. We are placing all hope that the government will make Amazon World Zoo Park is trying desperately to work out good on their promises of cash grants for businesses in the Sandown shop robber a way forward for the more than 1,000 animals that call the leisure industry, however at this time no one can tell us when popular visitor attraction in Newchurch their home. that maybe forthcoming. pleads guilty in court Animals such as sloths, anteaters and armadillos rely on “We hope this isn't the end for the Reptilarium, and if expensive, specialist diets and the tropical houses require anyone does wish to support us we have a go fund me page Craig Knowles (35) of no to all three offences which constant heating to ensure that the delicate species they running at gf.me/u/xrcuqr fixed abode has appeared involved threatening staff house don’t die of cold. The park was set up as a not-for- Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary has now also completely at Portsmouth Crown and stealing goods and cash profit company following a visit to the Amazon Basin around closed down, after initially keeping walkways open. They Court in relation to three worth approximately £700. 30 years ago, when director Derek Curtis saw for himself the say that although they don’t currently have a crowdfunding robberies from shops in He was remanded in custody devastating impact that the destruction of habitat and other page, people can help by visiting their website www. Avenue Road, Sandown in and will be sentenced on May human activities were having on the animal kingdom. iowdonkeysanctuary.org and donate through PayPal. November and December 1. Rob Westby, Zoo Manager said: “We know this is a dreadfully last year. He pleaded guilty 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 5 New restrictions on foating bridge

The floating bridge has limited passengers accommodation will be limited to six people, and vehicle journeys to blue-light services and the upper deck limited to 12 people. and essential workers only. The new rule Car lanes might be used for foot passengers came into force on Wednesday morning. if necessary, which will mean more can be Xavier Baker It is to ensure staff and passengers are able carried. to maintain social distancing, while keeping To make sure that everybody is following the vital transport link available for those this new limitation, staff may ask passengers who need it. or drivers about their journey. The definition Foot passenger capacity will be reduced. of ‘essential workers’ will be the same as True Island spirit This means that the lower passenger used by the government for schools. Free parking for critical workers from top gin team The Isle of Wight Distillery team is in critical work to support the wider helping to keep Island running taking the fight to the coronavirus by community. turning its expertise and knowledge Creator of the distillery’s signature The Isle of Wight Council has welcomed the volunteers who are supporting those Government's offer of free car parking for Islanders most in need, delivering essential to the production of hand sanitiser for spirit Mermaid Gin, Xavier Baker, critical workers in the NHS and social care supplies of food and medicine. It is our view Islanders. said: “We’re seeing many Island during the coronavirus outbreak. that no health worker, social car worker, Working to a World Health businesses responding to the crisis Health and social care workers are working volunteer or teacher, in fact any key worker, Organisation formula, it is expected with generosity, ingenuity and very long shifts, day and night, as they step should have to pay parking charges in our car to be ready for distribution today community spirit. We hope to be of up to the unprecedented challenge. This parks during this crisis. (Friday). In distributing the service to our local community at this announcement means they will be able to “I hope this will allow them to park near park in on street parking bays and Council to those residences where they may be potentially life-saving product special challenging time”. and NHS owned car parks without having to delivering hot meals, essential supplies or priority will be given to key workers Distillery co-founder, Conrad worry about cost or time restrictions. medicines, attending to a vulnerable person and organisations experiencing Gauntlett, added: “Putting something Council leader Dave Stewart said: “However, or perhaps park closer to their own home. shortages, such as schools, residential back locally has always been part we want to go further than the Government “We are also introducing 30 minutes’ homes, the hospice and postal of our motivation for building the offer and extend the offer of free parking to free parking in Newport High Street for all all key workers in Council owned car parks Island residents to enable them to visit the workers. distillery and our brands. In these at anytime. This will start from immediate pharmacy or do essential food shopping Working closely with the Isle difficult times, we’re glad we can do effect and they need do nothing for now. without the need for money to park. of Wight Council, the gel will be something so immediate and critical "This should help to minimise the spread “However, the message remains: “Stay at distributed on a not-for-profit basis to the health of the Island”. of infection by supporting key workers who home, protect the NHS, save lives” — you to those in need. The team will also Any organisation in need of hand will be travelling by car or other vehicles to should not leave your home unless absolutely be making donations to vulnerable sanitiser can send a request to office@ comply with social distancing advice. necessary. Only that way can we turn the tide "This includes our growing army of on the Covid-19 threat.” individuals and institutions engaged isleofwightdistillery.com. 6 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Islanders warned to be on guard for COVID-19 scams

Island residents are being reminded that the victim’s money. There are genuine Counterfeit goods Members of the public are being urged unscrupulous criminals are exploiting fears charities providing support, so consumers Fake sanitisers, face masks and COVID-19 to keep in contact with family members about COVID-19 to prey on members of the should be vigilant and ask for ID from anyone swabbing kits sold online and door-to-door. regularly and inform them of the most prolific public, particularly older and vulnerable claiming to represent a charity. These products can often be dangerous and scams and the possible dangers to them. If people who are isolated from family and COVID-19 scams identified include: unsafe. There are reports of some potentially someone has been targeted by a scam it can friends. Doorstep crime harmful hand sanitiser containing glutaral be reported to Action Fraud online at www. National Trading Standards (NTS) is Criminals targeting older people on their (or glutaraldehyde), which was banned for actionfraud.police.uk/ or by calling 0300 warning people to remain vigilant following doorstep and offering to do their shopping. human use in 2014. 123 2040. For advice and information on a rise in coronavirus-related scams that seek Thieves take the money and do not return. Telephone scams how to check if something might be a scam, to benefit from the public’s concern and Doorstep cleansing services that offer to As more people self-isolate at home there visit: www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/ uncertainty over COVID-19. clean drives and doorways to kill bacteria and is an increasing risk that telephone scams scams/check-if-something-might-be-a- Members of the public should ignore scam help prevent the spread of the virus. will also rise, including criminals claiming scam/. products such as supplements and anti-virus Online scams to be your bank, mortgage lender or utility kits that falsely claim to cure or prevent Email scams that trick people into opening company. COVID-19. In some cases individuals may be malicious attachments, which put people Donation scams pressurised on their own doorsteps to buy at risk of identity theft with personal There have been reports of thieves extorting anti-virus kits or persuaded into purchasing information, passwords, contacts and bank money from consumers by claiming they products that are advertised on their social details at risk. Some of these emails have are collecting donations for a COVID-19 media feeds. In addition, some call centres lured people to click on attachments by ‘vaccine’. that previously targeted UK consumers with offering information about people in the local Loan sharks dubious health products are now offering area who are affected by coronavirus. Illegal money lenders are expected to prey supplements that supposedly prevent Fake online resources – such as false on people’s financial hardship, lending COVID-19. Coronavirus Maps – that deliver malware such money before charging extortionate interest Communities are also being urged to look as AZORult Trojan, an information stealing rates and fees through threats and violence. out for signs of neighbours being targeted by program which can infiltrate a variety of People are being encouraged to protect doorstep criminals. While there are genuine sensitive data. A prominent example that has their neighbours by joining Friends Against groups of volunteers providing help during deployed malware is ‘corona-virus-map[dot] Scams, which provides free online training self-isolation, there have been reports of com’. to empower people to take a stand against criminals preying on residents – often older Refund scams scams. To complete the online modules, visit people or people living with long-term health Companies offering fake holiday refunds for www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk. conditions – by cold-calling at their homes individuals who have been forced to cancel NTS is also issuing urgent advice to help and offering to go to the shops for them. The their trips. People seeking refunds should prevent people falling victim to COVID-19 criminals often claim to represent charities also be wary of fake websites set up to claim scams through its Friends Against Scams to help them appear legitimate before taking holiday refunds. initiative. Example of a scam 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 7

Plans for new stretch of Island coastal path Natural England has revealed enjoy a colourful variety significant infrastructure footpaths. new plans to open up a 72- of landscapes, from small improvements where our The remaining England mile stretch of coastal path fishing villages to ancient existing coastal path will be Coast Path report on the Isle on the Isle of Wight. woodlands and wildflower utilised. of Wight will be published The proposed route takes in meadows, and take in views “The implementation later this year to allow landmarks such as Tennyson of the iconic Needles jutting of the England Coast sufficient time to finalise Down and The Needles, while out into the English Channel. Path, which will also be a proposals between East walkers will be able to stop at “We thank the recognised National Trail, Cowes and Wootton Bridge. Yarmouth, Cowes, Newtown many landowners and will further enhance the Anyone may make and Bembridge. organisations who have so Island’s reputation as a representations to Natural Islanders are able to have far inputted to help shape fabulous walking destination England about the reports their say for the next seven the proposals. Over the next for residents and visitors and during the consultation weeks on the England Coast eight weeks, we are inviting also supports the council’s period. Owners and occupiers Path proposals. If approved, all organisations, farmers, regeneration aspirations. of affected land may make this route will become part local residents, visitors and “It also fits with our objections about the reports of the England Coast Path, businesses to have their sustainable transport plan on specified grounds, which the 2,700-mile long distance say. It’s important that all of encouraging people to will be considered by a walking route and England’s responses are taken into walk safely around the Planning Inspector before newest National Trail, account and we look forward Island instead of having the Secretary of State makes currently being developed to hearing people’s views.” to walk along road edges. a final decision. around the entire English Councillor John Hobart, The council will continue to All representations and coast by Natural England. Isle of Wight Council Cabinet provide support in respect objections must be received Andrew Smith, Natural Member for Environment of the remaining East Cowes by Natural England no later England’s Area Manager and Heritage, said: “Reaching section and would like to than midnight on May 13, for Thames Solent, said: this important milestone is take this opportunity to while copies of the reports “These exciting proposals a step further in achieving thank Natural England for can be viewed in local will improve access to what will be a fantastic their work thus far.” libraries and the Isle of Wight some of the Isle of Wight’s development for the Island The proposals also Council office in Newport. most stunning landscapes. in terms of creating new recommend significant Visitors will be able to public access and making improvements to coastal Festival to honour 1970 event still on course to take place It is still all systems go for the one big a party!” EXPERIENCE 1970 music festival, Hewitt and Sharrocks have which is not due to be held on the unveiled some of the original 1970 Island until September 4, 5 and 6. WEM sound gear that will adorn the The festival will celebrate 50 replica stage, a tribute to the 1970 years since the iconic Isle of Wight original, that is to be constructed Festival of 1970, which starred the on the original festival site at East incomparable Jimi Hendrix, along Afton Farm, near Freshwater. with Jim Morrison, The Who and a A huge red parabolic reflector, clutch of other phenomenal artists. looking like a giant satellite dish, EXPERIENCE 1970 is determined has also been refurbished to mirror to honour that event with a those used 50 years ago to enhance spectacular anniversary festival. the sound system. And the firm message from chief The bill is now taking shape with organisers Chris Hewitt and Andy original 1970 artists leading the Sharrocks is that the festival is still way. John Lodge of the Moody set to go ahead. Blues is bringing his 10,000 Light Chris said: “Our number one Years band to the festival alongside priority is health and safety, Groundhogs and Ten Years After. obviously, but right now we have Folk-rock fans are catered for no plans to cancel or postpone. with the return of Jacqui McShee’s Obviously things are moving fast Pentangle. with Coronavirus, from day to Plainsong, featuring 1970 veterans day, and we empathise with fellow Iain Matthews and Andy Roberts, promoters who have had to cancel are back as is Hawkwind’s Nik events set for earlier in the summer. Turner and Isle of Wight legends “But while we are keeping matters Arthur Brown and Dick Taylor of the constantly under review, we are not Pretty Things. at that stage with EXPERIENCE Earlybird Tickets are now available 1970 and we are still very much online at https://party-ace.com – an ongoing event. It is on and by choose Events and then Experience September, we will all be ready for 1970. 8 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Posse of sherifs celebrate John's 15 years service

Hovertravel offers transport lifeline Hovertravel has announced a new timetable transport key workers or critical supplies at in efforts to keep the Isle of Wight’s vital any time of the day or night. transport links open. “At all times and with each of these It comes after the Government emphasised announcements, we fully considered the how important transport is for the delivery of safety and well-being of our customers and crucial public services, during the coronavirus our staff. I would also like to acknowledge the pandemic. wholehearted commitment of everyone at Neil Chapman, Hovertravel Managing Hovertravel working to maintain our lifeline John Matthews centre front flanked by current High Sheriff Geoff Underwood and Director, said: “We are carrying key workers link across the Solent. ” the former High Sheriffs he served. Credit : Mike Dunkason between the Isle of Wight and the mainland, Hovertravel has configured its operations as well ensuring vital supplies of medicines with volunteer staff to have a craft ready to The collective noun for sheriffs is ‘a posse’, served. Celebrity gardener and writer Alan and the Royal Mail continue to flow across depart within 30 minutes during operating and that pretty well describes the turnout of Titchmarsh, who was High Sheriff in 2008/9, the Solent. hours and in 60 minutes outside of operating former Isle of Wight High Sheriffs who came read a poem he had composed entitled ‘Salute “To ensure we continue to offer a robust hours, with just one phone call. together with the present incumbent Geoff to an Under Sheriff’. and resilient transport service, we have taken Hovertravel has already offered Underwood to mark the retirement of Under John said: "Over the 15 years I have served decisive action to firstly amend our timetable this 24/7 critical on-demand service to Sheriff John Matthews. John has served different High Sheriffs I have become to an hourly service, starting from Ryde at several key stakeholders and any other in the role of Under Sheriff for 15 years and convinced how vital a role they have in 6.15am with a last craft from Southsea at organisation which needs transport. is due to retire on April 6, when new High leading our Island community and promoting 7.30pm, to help these essential travellers get All passengers using Hovertravel Sheriff Caroline Peel is due to be sworn in. all kinds of charities and community events, to where they are most needed. are also being asked to observe Public A farewell lunch was held in John’s both large and small. On the Isle of Wight the “Secondly, we have introduced, thanks to Health England’s social distancing rules. honour at the Royal Solent Yacht Club in High Sheriff has a much more pro-active role staff volunteers, a new on-demand hovercraft Hovertravel’s new timetable will be Yarmouth where he and his wife Stephanie than in most other parts of the country." facility which will assist stakeholders to operational until further notice. received gifts from the High Sheriffs he has 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 9 Adam’s green shoot cultivation News in brief No Shanklin in Bloom for treatment of fibromyalgia Shanklin in Bloom 2020 is among the A West Wight farmer with a difference is aiming to After passing stringent government and police Islanders to be a part of this journey.” latest events to be has put the Island at the centre of a world leading group checks he finally received a licence in April last You can find out more at vecticanna.com. been cancelled due to working on the understanding and treatment of year to grow Low THC Cannabis on his 60-acre coronavirus. Organisers fibromyalgia and related conditions. Island Hemp Farm and quickly planted his first are hoping the popular Adam Mawer, 44, is entering his second year crop. Links with the Isle of Wight Fibromyalgia displays will return as of cultivating cannabis plants under licence Society led to a meeting with Dr Gary Lee of the normal next year. from the Home Office. Working with The Future Future Clinic and they have now collaborated on a Clinic in Cowes who specialise in the treatment number of research studies to find out more about of fibromyalgia, researchers at the University how cannabinoids can help in the treatment of Mummy- of Southampton and Cambridge Laboratories Fibromyalgia and related conditions. he has been investigating the link between the In this they have been supported by local company oke with debilitating long-term condition and the relief Wight CBD and other Island medical professionals Mamma that medicinal cannabis products can bring. with Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely assisting in The precise cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, dealings with the Home Office. Adam is currently Rocks but it causes intense pain throughout the body waiting for a variation on his licence to be granted and is believed to be related to abnormal levels to permit him to not only to grow cannabis but of chemicals in the brain and changes in the way also to manufacture a range of cannabis derived the central nervous system carries pain messages products. This will give total traceability and around the body. quality control over the extracts ti be used in the After almost four years of unexplained pain and UK, and confidence to the medical profession and visits to various specialists, Adam’s partner Laurie consumers. was finally diagnosed with the condition around Once granted, the licence will pave the way to a two years ago. Adam had been searching for an multi-million-pound research and development alternative to the multiple strong medications she facility providing year-round employment for was prescribed which brought unwelcome side- Islanders and, Adam says, substantial annual If you fancy singing with effects, and this eventually led to the launch of funding to Island good causes. a choir while you are a new career for the Island businessman, whose Speaking after the launch of the new website stuck at home then an family have lived here for over 40 years. for Vecticanna, the company he has set up to initiative by Mama Rocks Laurie found that cannabinoids, naturally found manufacture the products Adam said: “This is a is worth a look. The choir in cannabis plants were the most effective and really exciting time for the company. Expansion made up of Mums and natural way to manage her symptoms, but Adam will bring significant employment opportunities Grandmas on the Island discovered that there was little understanding, and and mean the Island can become a world leader in is trying to find ways to even less research into why or how they worked. the understanding and treatment of a number of create a sing-a-long or Worryingly, over 80 per cent of cannabis extracts pain related conditions. Mummy-oke for anyone used in the UK are imported from Eastern Europe or There are over eight million people who suffer who would like to join China, with independent testing showing that the from unexplained pain, so the potential market them. You can find out quality is highly variable. Strict drug legislation in is huge. The Island’s climate and weather gives more on the Mama Rocks the UK requires constant and reliable standards, so us a fantastic geographical advantage which we Isle of Wight Facebook Adam set out to supply what was needed. want to make the most of, and I am keen for other page. 10 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Plans to drill for oil It's business as usual near Arreton delayed at GKN and Vestas

It is business as usual at other measures such as social two of the Island’s biggest distancing and increased employers, GKN Aerospace cleaning cycles at our and MHI Vestas because they facilities. say the Government has “We will continue to take issued no advice about the all steps necessary to ensure closure of factories. the health and safety of our Several readers have workforce, our partners and questioned why they should everyone associated with the Pic: Frack Free IOW remain open, prompting business.” a statement from GKN There are to be no new that restrictions on public Aerospace: “These are planning decisions made gatherings would limit their unprecedented times. Our by the Isle of Wight Council ability to organise meetings key priority throughout is to in the immediate future, and protests at the plans to Bus pass support for safeguard our people, while although new planning start exploratory work for oil continuing to deliver for our applications will still appear drilling on a site near Arreton customers in line with the on-line. The unprecedented and the decision might be over 65s extended latest Government guidance steps mean that public made ‘under the public’s for businesses such as GKN consultation on new radar’. The Isle of Wight Council Cabinet Member for Aerospace to ‘carry on’. applications will not start The group issued a have extended its support Infrastructure & Transport “We continue to follow until Government guidance statement which said: “We for elderly people during said: “The Isle of Wight national guidance as a on non-essential movement wish to thank the Isle of the COVID-19 crisis. Bus Council is extremely pleased minimum in all the countries changes. Wight Council’s Planning passes for Island bus to have reached agreement in which we operate. In The announcement was Department for listening to users who are over 65 will with our transport and the UK this has included welcomed by the Frack Free our concerns and making be valid before 9.30am, health partners to extend our a health questionnaire for Isle of Wight group who had this important decision. We to help older travellers support for those residents every employee to enable expressed concerns about are grateful that the Council access supermarkets which with bus passes. This will vulnerable employees to an application by UK Oil and has acknowledged that these have made available early allow them to access the identify themselves and Gas Plc (UKOG) which had precautionary measures are shopping time slots for offer from retailers to use remain away from the been expected to go live on essential at this time”. elderly people. their shops early in the workplace, in addition to March 27. They were worried Councillor Ian Ward, morning.” 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 11 Online shopping at Mountbatten soon

Mountbatten shops have temporarily offer us a vital source of income, but despite everything that is happening, closed, but the charity hopes to set up they also act as social hubs for many our work caring for hundreds of people an online store as soon as possible. people across the Island. in their homes and those in our hospice Mountbatten said it was closing its “The Government has been very continues. 10 shops and the main warehouse in clear in asking us all to keep a distance “Whether it’s making a donation via Newport to keep its staff, volunteers from each other, so we must take the our website or signing up to Walk the and customers safe following the responsible step and close until further Wight Your Way, any support you can outbreak of coronavirus. notice. The loss of income will hit us, give is so vital to us.” Plans to create a new online shop on at a time when we already know our Donations of items for shops and its website will be accelerated and more general fundraising streams will be Mountbatten’s warehouse cannot be items will be available on Mountbatten’s significantly affected. accepted until they re-open. Staff and Ebay site. “We would encourage people to volunteers will be redeployed to support Mountbatten CEO Nigel Hartley, said: visit our Ebay site and look out for our other areas of the organisation, within “The safety of our staff, volunteers new online shop, which we will make the appropriate government guidelines. and customers and supporters is our available as quickly as we can. We need For details on how to support absolute priority. Our shops not only people to keeping thinking of us because Mountbatten, visit mountbatten.org.uk Uproar and then apology after Shanklin pub keeps serving

The company director of a Shanklin for which, there is no guidance, pub that openly continued to serve no closure requirement, no alcohol after the government order information. For this reason, our that all such licensed premises must guests had been offered food and closed, has apologised for what he drink as there is no cooking facilities called ‘our mistake’. in the rooms, and they wouldn’t be The Waterfront Inn on Shanklin able to find a restaurant open to feed Esplanade displayed a board on themselves. the footpath outside saying ‘TAKE “Also per government guidance, AWAY DRINKS’ last Sunday. we have been offering take away A steady stream of customers took service for drinks only, sadly, I admit up the offer, and even sat outside on our mistake, we did not remove our the pub’s decking area, soaking up outside chairs, where take away the spring sunshine while downing customers have found themselves their drinks. That prompted a comfortable, at first, having a massive outburst of criticism on large terrace, social distance were social media, with comments respected, but then, few more including ‘stupidity’, irresponsible’ people came. and ‘sheer madness’. “I completely agree that it is Certainly customers were making upsetting but this wasn’t the result no effort to adhere to the two-metre expected, our original intention was rule for social gatherings. Following to provide drinks for the numerous the furore, Beurois Vincent, walker on the seafront. So, YES, WE Company Director at the Waterfront APOLOGY for the wrong message Inn, posted the following statement passed; YES, WE ARE CLOSED on Facebook: “Following the recent (bar and restaurant); YES, we do interest and the numerous hate respect the Government guidance, message received, it’s time for you our licensing authorities and the to hear it directly from us, so if wellbeing of our locals. you would like to know the truth. “Local authorities has been in As per government guidance, our contact and were provided with restaurant was closed on Friday CCTV footage to prove that we only evening, right after Mr Boris have served take away, and that Johnson’s speech, and the bar the bar was closed. In this time of shortly after that very same evening. boredom, we cannot stop people “Our building is also the home from gossiping, but the truth had to of our seven rooms B&B/hotel, be told.” 12 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 East Cowes crafters mark Mother's Day with smile

With Mother’s Day a disappointment for many because they were unable to visit loved ones, the crafters of East Cowes set out to put a smile on people’s faces on the special day. The No driving tests for talented group led by Joy Cleightonhills and Judy Powell decorated the up to three months archways at the entrance to the local shops with Island learner drivers, driving tests, crafted flowers, insects eagerly awaiting their approve driving instructor and bees made using a driving test for either a car (ADI) tests and checks. variety of materials and or motorcycle, face a lengthy DVSA will contact everyone techniques. wait. The Driver and Vehicle with a test booked during East Cowes Councillor Standards Agency (DVSA) this time to let them know Karl Love said: “It’s with has suspended driving their test has been cancelled great thanks to Joy and tests in England, Scotland and that it will automatically Judy and an amazing group and Wales for up to three re-book for them. of local people that the arts months. In addition to suspending in East Cowes are really The decision has made to driving tests, the DVSA has taking off. help prevent the spread of suspended MOTs for all heavy “Perhaps during this time coronavirus as tests lead to goods vehicles (HGVs) and of social distancing people extended contact between public service vehicles (PSVs) might like to create their candidates and examiners in for up to three months. All own small decorations vehicles. HGV and PSV vehicles with to be collected together The news will come as a an MOT will be issued with later and placed around blow to those who have spent a three-month certificate of our town umbrella tree as weeks or months learning to temporary exemption (CTE) a memory of solidarity, drive, but the suspension until further notice. hope, community and of tests will give those The Department for memories.” individuals longer to practice Transport continues to You can contact joy – should driving instructors keep MOT testing for other on joy.headwayiow@ decide to continue working. vehicles under review and gmail.com for further The suspensions include: will provide an update in due information and patterns. car driving tests, motorcycle course. tests, lorry, coach and bus 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 13

Ways of keeping active while confned to home As the current situation builds in make your bed in the morning, go to *Share a 'virtual dinner'. Agree a intensity, more and more of us are bed on time at night. time - and a menu! - with a friend and likely to be spending time confined to *Segment your day – work time, meal meet by computer to eat together our home. But what to do? time, me time, family time. and chat. The practicalities of being *If you’re working from home, make *Try cooking, making bread, making housebound are far-reaching. We sure you start and stop work at the jam, beer. There are lots of fun and need to make arrangements for appropriate time. And when you rewarding home-based activities. grocery shopping, for working from stop, stop. *Relax, Find some mental relaxation home if that’s practical, for childcare *If you have a garden or a roof techniques from the NHS on cntw. if we have kids and much more. terrace, set aside some time each day nhs.uk/resource-library/relaxation- But there’s another aspect to all this, to spend outside. Get some fresh air techniques/ how to cope emotionally. It may seem and a change of perspective, even if And remember to ask for help if you a minor challenge at the moment, but it’s raining. need it. Samaritans offer a friendly ear after a few days or weeks in isolation, *Keep as active as possible. Get in a on the end of the phone 24 hours a day things can seem very different. bit of early spring cleaning. – and it’s free. Just dial 116 123. Here are some hints to help you get *Make a point of keeping in touch through this difficult period: with friends and family, by phone or *Establish a routine and follow it – via the internet. Advice on how to make home schooling run more smoothly

Parents and children on Jonathan Ratcliffe, from Routine is important for good checking emails? the Isle of Wight have seen Offices.co.uk, has offered sleep and mental health, SET ASIDE BREAKS FOR unprecedented change this advice to try to make the for both you and your kids. TV, IPAD AND EXERCISE: to work and education daily routine go smoothly. He School starts at a set time, so Use these times to schedule routines this week after said: “You are going to have make sure you are ready and work emails or calls. the Government ordered to plan well, get organised stick to the timetable. DO SOME EXERCISE: all schools to close in the and work to a strict timetable GET DRESSED PROPERLY Depending on where you battle to prevent coronavirus if you want to get everything LIKE TEACHER AND live, if you have a garden or spreading further. done. Equally, you’ll need to STUDENT: Getting showered not – try and get some fresh As more of us turn to have a proper split between and dressed is important to air, this also allows you some self-isolation, the difficult work, school, fun and rest. divide sleep and school. headspace. balance of work and home “The first thing you need to CREATE SPACES FOR FINISH AT A SET TIME, schooling has become a do is lower your expectations DIFFERENT ACTIVITIES: BEDTIME AT A SET TIME: reality. of what you are going to You might set up a teaching By getting a routine drilled in Working from home is achieve, both with work and room (kitchen), quiet room early on, you can try and get tough; home schooling is schooling. If you try to do too (spare bedroom) and a play the kids to sleep at a sensible very tough. So, if you must much the experience is going area (living room). time, thereby giving yourself combine the two for a long to be highly stressful.” STRUCTURE YOUR DAY some space to work if you period of time, how are you The key things to LIKE A SCHOOL DAY: need to. going to cope? remember include: Lower Teaching time, activity time, DON’T BE TEMPTED TO It has even been suggested your expectations of what play time and lunch time – HIT THE WINE: If you can, schools may now remain you will achieve with work, just like their normal school evening time will be the only closed until the start of the simplify a day into a set routine. real time you can realistically scheduled autumn term routine, don’t try and achieve MAKE A PLAN WITH work. If you drink your in early September, and too much and pause and try YOUR KIDS: At the start of concentration will be poor, that could mean five more to appreciate moments with the day ask them what they sleep poor and you’ll wake months of home schooling your kids. want to do (within reason) so in a grumpy mood. Try and for some. Classrooms and Here are 10 tips on how to they feel involved. keep drinking to a minimum. children’s play areas could deal with home education: TURN OFF YOUR PHONE: remain closed for months - START EARLY AT THE How are your kids meant let’s hope not though. SAME TIME EACH DAY: to feel involved if you are 14 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Keep up with the big cats even though zoo is closed

The Isle of Wight Zoo may sleeping quarters and their Beware though the pastime after being saved from a be closed for a while, but outside enclosure. is incredibly addictive!” Spanish circus where they that doesn’t mean the public Lawrence Bates, the Keepers will be feeding the spent most of their lives Great advertising rates need to miss the antics of the Zoo’s Head of Zoological lions at midday nearly every cooped up together in a lorry two rescued lion brothers Operations said: “As well day so check in to the camera trailer. Vigo and Kumba. as being fantastic for the to catch the action. And if More details, and access to 01983 214264 Thanks to the donation of public, the cameras are a you miss that there will be a the webcam can be found at two web cams by Island IT great tool for keepers who Facebook update every day at isleofwightzoo.com/kumba- company Dataswift, the lions can now keep a remote 2pm. vigo-webcam. can be viewed day or night eye on the boys from the Vigo and Kumba were as the cameras cover their comfort of their own home. brought to the zoo last year 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 15

Red Funnel revises Red Jet timetables Red Funnel Ferries has announced 5.45am from Southampton and 6.15am on vehicle ferry sailings, and to ensure changes to its planned timetable in from West Cowes Monday to Saturday, the ferry company is doing all that it order to protect lifeline services to the and 6.45am from Southampton and can to maintain the vital movement of Isle of Wight and ensure a reliable and 7.15am from West Cowes on Sundays. goods and supplies to the Island. resilient schedule for all customers. The last Red Jet sailings will depart at Red Funnel CEO Fran Collins said: “We Following reduced demand for 8.45pm from Southampton and 9.15pm will continue to assess the situation crossings and the government’s advice from West Cowes daily. in the coming days and weeks and regarding non-essential travel and Customers with season tickets will be will continue to keep our customers home working, Red Funnel’s hi-speed contacted and invited to 'freeze' their informed of any further changes. Red Jet service has been reduced to ticket until which time they wish to We thank our customers for their an hourly service, instead of its usual reactivate it. understanding as our teams work hard half-hourly rotations. The reduced Red Red Funnel will continue to maintain to continue our services during these Jet schedule, until further notice, will its current timetable on its vehicle extraordinary times, and I would also depart at XX.45 from Southampton and ferries for the foreseeable future, and like to thank all of our staff for their XX.15 from West Cowes, seven days a will also be adding additional sailings commitment to keeping the Island week. to its dedicated freight service via Red connected.” The first Red Jet sailings will depart at Kestrel, in order to provide further space Island carriers help with vital deliveries An Island distribution firm has pledged its support to the Government by offering the fleet of vehicles at its disposal to help with the delivery of food and other vital supplies. Isle of Wight Distribution, based on the Island and also has a depot at Chandlers Ford, has joined over 700 logistics businesses and all members of the UK’s eight major Pallet networks, to put their combined fleet of 23,500 vehicles forward. Between them they have 30,000 employees, over 750 depots, and offer 100 per cent national coverage by postcode. Antony Flood, Managing Director at Isle of Wight Distribution, said: “We are proud to play our part in this unique collaboration as the entire UK industry joins forces to transport the most vital supplies. Collectively our sector has unrivalled resource and the individual companies are local experts with vast experience of express distribution and a key link in the UK supply chain.” Regional members collect freight from their local area and transport it to the most appropriate regional Hub, where it is reloaded onto vehicles returning to its destination area. In 2019 UK pallet networks delivered 26 million pallets of goods. 16 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Creative writing competition: page of a work in progress

Independent Arts has launched its first org.uk and write a single page of a ‘work in creative writing competition for aspiring progress’ which could be a story, a poem, a Isle of Wight writers. The competition aptly play, a diary or an article. If you prefer not named ‘Jot’ aims to encourage anyone from to put pen to paper – you may record work in the Island, with a story in their head, to progress (three minutes maximum) on your express it and enter. chosen device. Then send the application Independent Arts is a charity focused on form and entry to jot@independentarts. using the arts to improve wellbeing, quality of org.uk or post to Independent Arts, Creative life and to reduce social isolation. Supported Writing Competition, Suite 3, 30 Quay Street, by volunteers, practitioners and a small staff Newport PO30 5BA, to reach the charity team in Newport, the charity engages with no later than midnight on Friday June 15. 1,700 people every month across the Island. Winners will be revealed at an awards Islanders are invited to submit an example ceremony on Friday July 10 at The People’s of ‘a page of a work in progress’. The Pop-up Gallery, Newport. competition is open to all Isle of Wight residents. There are three age groups: 5–11 years, 12–17 years and 18 years+ and it is free to enter. Entries will be accepted in a wide range of formats including video clips of performative Ryde Academy students pieces, auditory recordings or soundscapes of spoken word (not to exceed three minutes) and, of course, the written form (not to exceed one side of A4). explore career openings Independent Arts CEO, Lisa Gagliani MBE, said: “As an Island charity committed to Around 200 students at Ryde Academy school also helped the students develop their exploring change through creativity, we took part recently in a speed-networking social skills as well as helping Ryde Academy hope this competition will encourage novices event to help them explore potential career in its aim of forming strong community links. and experienced storytellers, young and old, opportunities with Island-based companies. Rebecca Merrett, Careers Leader at Ryde to literally jot something down, or to record The students from Year 10 used the event Academy, said: “As part of our ongoing a few minutes of spoken word, to express to speak to representatives from some of careers programme we aim to engage themselves and connect.” the Island’s leading companies including students with as much exposure to different The prizes include a subscription to Writing AI experts Innovative Physics, Liz Earle, IW sectors and industries as possible. Magazine, generous book tokens, a Costa Fire and Rescue, Pompey in the Community, “Speed-networking is a good way of doing gift card and tickets to the Island Literary NCS, BAE Systems, Laura Gate Eastley Yoga, this because it means students glean a lot Festival. Judges include Edana Minghella, The Garlic Farm, CLC (Care Learning Centre), of information in a very short space of time Patron of Independent Arts, and Anmarie Ella Sheppard School of Dance, Cowes from a wide variety of local employers. It also Bowler and an award-winning, published Chiropractic Clinic, Vikoma International, helps dispel myths that there isn't good- Island writer who has sponsored the prizes, Isle of Wight College, Hovertravel, Dover quality employment on the Island." along with other creative talents associated Park Primary School and Red Funnel. Following on from the event, students with Independent Arts. Besides introducing students to possible also underwent mock interviews to further To enter, download an application form from careers and employers, the event at the prepare them for the world of job-hunting. Independent Arts website - independentarts. 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Island Support Lines 17

COWES Essential hardware supplies at B&Q ISLAND SUPPORT LINES Lora: [email protected] Tel. 01983 645765 Mob/Txt: 07970 424214 The B&Q store at Newport is closed to shoppers but is supplying essential products only for repair and maintenance of the home through their click and collect service, which provides contactless North East Wight Support FRESHWATER, TOTLAND, YARMOUTH, facilities to pick up your pre-ordered goods. They are also working SHALFLEET on a home delivery service. You can order the products that are BEMBRIDGE West Wight Sports & Community Centre are coordinating the available on DIY.com. Hurst’s stores across the Island are closed to response locally and recruiting volunteers. They have a dedicated the general public for the time being. email address [email protected], main communication is Holy Trinity Church is co-ordinating a group of volunteers from through their FB page Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboat Bembridge who can offer support to anyone who is self-isolating. https://www.facebook.com/www.westwightsportscentre/, phone Given the current situation with Covid-19, Sandown and Shanklin For information on shopping deliveries, local hot meal deliveries, number is 752168 Independent Lifeboat have decided to cancel this year’s Go-Orange prescription deliveries and new phone buddy system, or anything fundraising weekend on the 3rd and 4th April. The health and else you’re concerned about, call the support line 07724401443 wellbeing of our Lifeboat crew and fundraisers is paramount to our GURNARD stations core value, which is to preserve life. Paul Fuller: 01983 289595 or 07935 090835 Our volunteer lifeboat crew need to be kept healthy so that they may respond at any time of the day to a call for help. BRADING This saddens us greatly because we take a lot of pleasure meeting Brading Parish Council will continue to deal with enquiries on 401770 NEWPORT & CARISBROOKE Matthew Price 524320 the local community to raise awareness of our lifesaving work. We or email [email protected] would also like to send good wishes to our colleagues at Freshwater Post Office remains open on Tues and Thurs 9.30 – 11.30am Scarrots Lane Bakery offering deliveries to Newport & Carisbrooke Tel: 511187 email: [email protected] Independent Lifeboat and Ryde Inshore Rescue Service who are also Support with shopping and prescriptions for vulnerable residents cancelling their events. offered. Our Operations Manager, Mark Birch has placed strict measures The Yarbridge are offering local deliveries, they can be contacted on PAN MEADOWS AND BARTON in place at our station and only core crew may attend. We know you 01983 405585. 01983 248170 lovely people want to come and say hello, but at this time, please stay Pan Together will be offering: away and look after yourselves. EAST COWES • An affordable ‘special of the day’ meal delivery service. Order by COMMUNITY HELP ON OFFER: 10.30am for a delivery between 11.30am and 1.30pm • Help with essential shopping Friends of Freshwater Fire Station Since we posted a couple of days ago regarding helping the community Need help collecting shopping, • A prescription-collection service • A helpline for anyone living locally who is self-isolating without during this difficult time we have been in touch with 'West Wight posting mail or getting urgent Coronavirus Support' and all assistance is now being coordinated supplies? Contact David or Laura support Local residents affected are asked to phone 01983 248170 between centrally through this new group. They will be coordinating volunteers at Coast to Castle Properties, tel: to support the vulnerable and isolated through the current crisis. 01983 200007 or 07437 176626 9am and 6pm. In an emergency between the hours of 6pm and 9pm, phone Cllr Brodie on 01983 521686 or Rachel Thompson on 01983 For more information please email [email protected]. Phone 248170. number 752168. Volunteers offering to help with shopping, Contact Community Ventnor Post Office Spirited on Tel: 01983 296592 or 07747 046202 South Wight Support I am sorry but we have had no choice but to close Ventnor Post Office CHALE following the latest Post Office and Government Advice regarding the FISHBOURNE Ron Groves 01983 551310 / 07767 712275 Coronavirus. A Community Action/Support Group is being set up to help if you are For food deliveries, contact Niton Country Stores 01983 731344 / Seasons is classed as an non-essential shop (we sell newspapers over 70 or self-isolating due to Coronavirus. 730389 or for large orders: [email protected] cards and stationary) and so according to government advice the If you are in one of these categories and need some support, or you shop has to close. As you know the post office is within Seasons and so it also has to are willing to be a volunteer and offer support, please contact one of CHILLERTON & GATCOMBE your Parish Councillors or the Parish Clerk. remain closed as long as the shop is closed. The Parish Councillors and the Villagers of Chillerton and Gatcombe Email: [email protected] or Tel: 07815 990019 or Cllr We will remain closed for three weeks until the government tells us may be able to help with shopping, getting your medication, exercising Sarah Talbot and give your phone/contact details. otherwise. Otherwise we are subject to fines from the government. dogs, social support, meals and drinks and post. Areas of help might be shopping, collection of medication, dog Post offices that are within food outlets are allowed to remain open For help contact Nigel Phillips on 01983 721382 or np.cgparish@ walking or even a chat on the phone. e.g Wroxall and Shanklin but do check with the offices first to make gmail.com sure they are also open before you make the journey. RYDE This is not a decision we have had any choice about and we know that Ryde Helpline 01983 811105 GODSHILL PARISH this will be inconvenient for many of our lovely and loyal customers. Current support being coordinated through ARCH is: Alison Child: 01983 840179 Remember to stay at home as much as possible to prevent the spread Prescription delivery Rodney Downer: 07594 581076 of the virus, only go out when absolutely necessary, Emergency food parcels Godshill Shop is making deliveries locally, please call 01983 840201 Stay At Home !!! Stay Safe and Stay Well !! Dog walking Tansy’s Pantry – delivering hot vegan meals, please call 01983 Andy and Steve Please liaise with Ryde Academy about packed lunches for collection. 840921 Ventnor Post Office Please contact me if you feel I can help you. Harbour House Ryde collections and deliveries Don’t forget fresh food, fruit, vegetables help NITON & WHITWELL For those that are unable to leave the house, just a reminder that to boost your immune system, together with John BoileauGoad 01983 731811 Harbour House Ryde are offering a ‘community menu’ where you Vitamin D from sunshine. can either collect or order delivery where possible on these meals. Stay safe & observe the Government guidelines SANDOWN Call 01983 616662 or 07595631169. Tel: 01983 866135 / 07388 669071 email: Richard Priest 07471 471960 [email protected] Sandown South – Alex Lightfoot 07528 578257 Islandwide Local Support Contacts Ward: Havenstreet, Ashey & Haylands Mental Health Safe Haven (run by charity Two Saints, commissioned by the CCG) Ryde Lions club are still here for our local SHANKLIN Richard Priest 07471 471960 Community Mental Health Safe Haven – for adults aged 18 or over. community, however, in line with other charities, During this current time, they are offering a telephone and email we are limited in what help we can give. If you service only (not the usual drop-in). Tel: 01983 520168 and email need help, please let us know on our Facebook VENTNOR [email protected]. This will be operating during its page or [email protected]. If we Helpline: 01983 853775 or 857848 between 09:00 and 16:00 usual opening hours 5pm-10pm (Monday-Friday) and 10am-10pm can help, we will, if not, we may know someone Help with essential shopping (weekends and bank holidays). who can. • Collection of prescriptions Psychiatric Crisis Support • Information or advice 01983 522214 – available 24/7 – please note we are experiencing • Dog walking WHIPPINGHAM technical difficulties with this line but are working hard to rectify these. • Other help Callers may need to wait slightly longer than usual. In an emergency Matthew Price Tel: 524320/07833 537668 A drop-in help desk will be open weekly from 09:00 to 13:00, Monday Email: [email protected] dial 999. to Friday at The Green Room, Salisbury Gardens, Dudley Road. Adult Social Care Mental Health Support Tony McCarthy [email protected] or 01983 857848 Individuals seeking support from Adult Social Care or Carers WOOTTON assessments should contact: In office hours - IASCC team - Tel – Volunteers to help with shopping, collection of prescriptions, trips to WROXALL 01983 821000 (Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm, Fridays 8.30am-4.30pm) the Post Office, phone calls etc Parish Councillor Helen Little – 07850 125245 or 01983 861280 Out of Hours contacts are to go through the Wight Care 01983 Cllr.Daryll Pitcher: 07511 045145 821105. This service is available weekdays from 5pm to 9am and [email protected] Guidance regarding Car MOT Extensions weekends from 4.30pm Friday through to 9am Monday morning. There is new guidance from the Government regarding Car MOT Isorropia Foundation – local mental health partners Extensions. They also offer the following advice: Not currently public facing, however info for practitioners is available West & Central Wight Support “The government is allowing MOT centres and garages to remain on their website https://isorropia.uk/ and Facebook page https:// BRIGHSTONE, HULVERSTONE, BROOK & open. So you can still get an MOT if you need your vehicle: www.facebook.com/isorropiafoundation/. 1. To shop for basic necessities, for example food and medicine, Carers support – Carers IW SHORWELL which must be as infrequent as possible for any medical need, or to Tel Calls: 01983 533173, 9-4pm Mon – Fri, Sat-Sun 10-4pm for Carol [email protected] provide care or to help a vulnerable person. urgent calls only. 2. To travel to and from work, but only where this absolutely cannot The office phone and answer phone will be manned and responded to CALBOURNE be done from home.” If you still need your vehicle MOT’d, Stag Lane in a timely manner depending on staffing. Staff will be contacting you on a regular basis but please phone us if you need us. Carol Weeks 01983 531393 Motors are there to help on 01983 522443. They are offering free General Community Support Help with hot food, groceries and prescription pick ups. collect and delivery service for your vehicle during this time. Community Action Isle of Wight https://www. Local WhatsApp group working with pubs etc communityactionisleofwight.org.uk/ 18 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Young volunteer receives top award for her support

A young volunteer who her award by Claire Steen session is too much trouble without helping with the supports families on the Isle and Rachel Mckernan from for her. Shauna is an asset play sessions. I now know I of Wight has been recognised Barnardo’s during a Family to the team and this award want to work with children for her dedication and Play event at East Newport is thoroughly well deserved. - hopefully as a paediatric commitment. Children’s Centre. Volunteer We all want to extend a big nurse”. Dancing in the sunset Shauna Willetts, 16, who Coordinator Deborah Cobb thank you for everything For more information about Forced into isolation by Reading, who kept well away volunteers at Barnardo’s Isle nominated Shauna for the that she does.” volunteering at Barnardo’s the coronavirus, Ann in line with official guidance, of Wight Early Help Service award. Shauna said: “When I Isle of Wight Early Help Abe-Deacon, Principal of was nonetheless able to and helps to run play sessions Deborah said: “Shauna has first started at Barnardo’s I please contact Deborah Cobb Dance Vibez dance school capture this beautiful image for vulnerable children and demonstrated a remarkable was shy and had low self- on (01983) 616607 or email in Sandown, has been in the evening. their families, was given a ability to relate to others, esteem; however, in just deborah.cobb@barnardos. dancing to keep in shape on Credit grahamreading. Highly Commended Marsh despite her age and relative a month I felt a lot more org.uk a deserted Appley Beach in com Trust Award for Young inexperience with parenting confident, along with Ryde. Photographer Graham Volunteer of the Year. issues. No task within learning new skills that I am Shauna was presented with the running of a busy play sure I wouldn’t have gained Alas, not the message now! The promotional message on this Southern Vectis bus seems a little unfortunate at these difficult and uncertain times. It's probably best to look on it as a reminder of happier times as we look forward to them returning. Picture: Graham Reading Photography 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 19 Challenging experiences explored in Donna's art

Virtually@RYDE help for school students Ryde School are now officially working pupil’s regular timetable in 50-minute virtual across the school with their Virtually@RYDE live lessons with a teacher either working programme. All pupils from Fiveways to the alone at school or at home. Sixth Form have a full programme of live and Boarders are being taught virtually at the video virtual teaching as well as access to boarding house and children of key workers lunchtime clubs and activities. are at school, being taught and fed as usual There has already been a virtual electric (social distancing rules in place). guitar workout, pet club and beginners tango. Mark Waldron, Head Master said: “I am Earlier the Head Master give his first fully really proud of our resilient pupils and virtual assembly and the Deputy Head an teachers and our IT and support staff who assembly on the psychology of our current have made this so seamless." situation. A parent of a Year 7 and a Year 9 girl said: The school said all lessons seem to be going "Both girls said it’s been very smooth and well with pupils linking in from home on surprisingly easy to work remotely.” Photo credit: Graham Reading laptops and other devices. A full day of lessons Upper Sixth student added: “Yes, working Donna Jones spent over 30 years in her native self-harm through cutting and burning; means, for example in the Senior School, a really well, have been in all my lessons." Sheffield using creative arts to work with violent young men, and those with drug troubled teenagers and victims of sexual induced paranoia, schizophrenia and mental trafficking. Now living in Ryde she recently illness. exhibited a selection of her art at Monkton "I do not shy away from exploring these Volunteer kayakers needed Arts. traumatic experiences in my paintings or She said: “I want to use my own and others’ my poetry. I want my work to challenge challenging life experiences in my work. I emotionally, and politically. I also want it for Pier 2 Pier swim event have worked with young people who have to give the above legitimate voice outside been abused physically, emotionally and of the sensationalist tabloid press and social sexually; drug users, sexually trafficked who media.” Ventnor Post Office closes

Ventnor’s only Post Office has been closed due to the latest Government coronavirus measures. A statement issued on behalf of the owners of Seasons, the shop in which the Post Office is housed, said: “I am sorry but we have had no choice but to close Ventnor The 2020 Pier 2 Pier Sea Swim Event on results are being processed the Rowing Club Post Office following Saturday, August 1, is fully subscribed with members supply everyone with a hot soup the latest Post Office 150 swimmers entered. But the IOW Marlins and roll. and Government Advice Masters swim Club need to ensure there are The organisers this year are using a new regarding the Coronavirus. sufficient numbers of the first line of safety timing and event management system and Seasons is classed as an craft. These are the kayakers who keep the consequently the event ‘sold out’ within non-essential shop so swimmers safe if they need assistance during three weeks. Of the 150 entrants there will be according to Government the swim. They stay close by and can secure 101 wearing costumes, 49 in wetsuits. There advice the shop has to the swimmer and signal to the Lifeboats are 65 men and 85 ladies entered, with 112 close. of the Sandown and Shanklin Independent entrants coming from the mainland to join “Post Offices that are Lifeboat and the Ryde Independent Inshore 38 Island residents. within food outlets are Lifeboat or one of the Shanklin Deep Sea Support has been received from Godshill allowed to remain open but Fishermen Craft. Model Village, Wight Crystal Water, Tesco do check with the offices Anyone who is a kayaker or canoeist who is Extra Ryde, and Wightlink first to make sure they available on the day can assist in making this Bob Cooper, Safety Officer, said: "It is are also open before you commitment to contact Adrian.brown6@ unbelievable that the work and organisation make the journey. This talktalk.net with their details. Adrian is the the members of the ‘Marlins’ and the other is not a decision we have contact for the Isle of Wight Kayak Club and, organisations have managed this event for had any choice about and along with his members, has supported this 68 years and should be rewarded with the we know that this will be event for many years. largest entry that there has ever been. With inconvenient for many The swimmers enter the sea alongside the the continued support from the Island's of our lovely and loyal Sandown Pier and then swim across the 1.8 kayakers we can keep this at the top of this customers.” miles of the Bay to finish at the Shanklin/ type of event, as well as keep the Isle of Wight Sandown Rowing Club beach. While the on the wider sports spectrum." 20 Puzzles www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Crossword Chess puzzle Across Down

1. Charged with an offence (7) 1. Frightened (7) 5. Hoodwinked (5) 2. Buffoon (5) 8. Oak nut (5) 3. Break of day (7) 9. Perplex (7) 4. Protect (6) 10. Large House (7) 5. Celtic priest (5) 11. Duffer (5) 6. Pepper (7) 12. More profound (6) 7. Southern states of the USA 14. Pact (6) (5) 18. Unit of weight (5) 13. Learned (7) 20. Lassos (7) 15. Dried seedless grape (7) 22. Diverge (anag) (7) 16. Cut apart (7) 23. Proverb (5) 17. Unpowered aircraft (6) 24. Asparagus shoot (5) 18. Young attendants (5) 25. Toothed wheel (7) 19. Channel port (5) 21. Embarrass (5)

Spot the winning move? White to play - Mate in 5 moves. Puzzle kindly supplied by John Wrench. To join a club email: [email protected]. Last weeks solution: For the answers to the crossword, see page 2. 1. Ng6+ hxg6, 2. Rh1+ Nh4, 3. Rxh4+ Qxh4, 4. Qxh4++

Sudoku Wordsearch Find the following list of words relating to Shrek.

SHREK GEPPETTO DONKEY PINOCCHIO PRINCESS CINDERELLA FIONA DRAGON LORD PETER PAN MONSIEUR PIED PIPER HOOD PUSS GINGERBREAD

For the answers to the Spot the Diference see the Isle of Wight Place a digit from 1-9 in each empty cell so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains Observer website all the digits from 1-9 only once. Spot the diferences Can you fnd all eight diferences between the two pictures of the Medina Food Service annual exhibition? 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver News 21 SPIIOW chosen by Nature Notes Co-op as partner Green Woodpecker can eat 2,000 ants a day – then picks up the bill!

The Isle of Wight’s Suicide Prevention and the attention of others could help with the Intervention Organisation (SPIIOW) has prevention and intervention of suicide. We announced a new community partner which really hope it can only have a positive effect is pledging to support the work it does on the on the community as well as trying to dismiss Island. Colleagues at The Co-operative Food the stigma that is attached to this illness. in Avenue Road, Sandown, voted for their This is something we all wanted to support. 2020 charity partner to be SPIIOW. “Keep your eyes peeled in store over the Sarah Adams, from SPIIWO, said: “Not only coming months as there will be fundraising does it give our teams a massive boost, but activities and small change collection pots at we also know that it shows businesses and our tills.” organisations across the Island are showing If you think or believe that someone you their support for us - and want to help know or have seen someone who is at risk people to open up and talk about suicide and from ending their life from suicide you can how people are feeling, to reach out and get make contact with our front line team 24 support and play their part on making the hours a day in the following ways: Island a suicide safer community.” SPI Crisis Number (Suicide Intervention When glimpsed from afar the Green over its eyes and into its right nostril just Tony Stokes, Store Manager at The Co- Only) Woodpecker looks like something much to fit into its head. operative Food Sandown, said: “Our store 07519 008406 anytime via text or call. This more exotic, a parakeet perhaps. Its most distinctive sound is its call, is part the local co-operative, Southern Co- number is only to be used if you or someone More familiar is the actually smaller which sounds like laughter so country op, which enables us to join together with a you know is having thoughts of suicide. Great-Spotted one though our third people once called it a ‘yaffle’. It also local cause each year which we support in a There is also a live 24-hour web chat at www. native species, the famous Lesser- climbs trees looking for wood-boring number of different ways - volunteering, spiiow.org Spotted, is now quite rare. Still, close insects but it doesn’t often drum against fundraising and goods donations. Anyone interested in learning or joining the up you can’t mistake the Green item. It them like other woodpeckers do. “Sadly too many of us are affected by on-call from line team can contact SPIIOW has paler underparts and a red cap, also a No doubt because of its striking suicide, including a number of our colleagues at [email protected] moustache (the male’s has a red centre). appearance and breezy chortle, it figures in store. Bringing mental health issues to They were only colonised here on the strongly in folklore. Often associated with Island in 1910 so it is thought they don’t water, especially rain, it is also known as like crossing water. Often seen in gardens the Rainpie, Rain-fowl or Weather-Cock. these days taking ants from the lawn, the ‘To this day the country people do Green Woodpecker can eat 2,000 of these divine of stone by their cry,’ wrote a day, using a long sharp bill to open up the celebrated 17th century diarist and their nests. antiquary John Aubrey, who was also a The northern slope of St Catherine’s student of natural history. Hill nature reserve has lately undergone You are more likely to see them here some changes which benefit it in this in the south than in the north and west, respect. Trees infected with ash die-back and not at all in Ireland. They are quite have been removed and the area has been long-lived,15 years has been recorded, restored to open grassland. and they form long attachments, a pair In fact quite the most interesting thing staying fairly close even outside the about this bird is its long tongue. At four breeding season. inches it has to wind up behind its skull,

Latest sports news P. 24 22 Letters www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Holmesy! !"#$%&'(#)*+,-.# Island Soapbox Send your letters into us [email protected] or post them to us IW one man against the world Observer, Suite 6, 17 St.Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL Disclaimer: Opinions expressed in these letters are not those held by the IW Observer or its staf. [email protected] They belong to the author and the author alone - Letters must be no longer than 250 words please. Do the maths Dear Editor, Jeremy Hunt, ex Conservative Mary’s have? I believe it is in the region of Let us pray this isn't Minister for Health and Social Care, last week half a dozen. Add to this recovering COVID-19 raised concerns that if five per cent of the patients take between two to three weeks on population became infected by COVID-19, ventilators with specially trained nursing and then five per cent of these patients staff to oversee their care, and the picture is a hopeless cause... required Intensive Care, our NHS could very clear. simply not cope. The Island is uniquely placed to engage in If five per cent of our 140,000 Island social distancing, with the opportunity to self population becomes infected, then that isolate itself ahead of a National ban on all is 7000 patients If five per cent of these but essential travel. But this takes the kind infected patients required critical care, then of vision and moral Leadership which puts that’s 350 Islanders. peoples lives ahead of commerce interests. How many Intensive Care beds does St Hans Bromwich, Cowes Brilliant front page Dear Editor, brilliant front page photograph I am expecting my box of Milk Tray to be in last weeks IW Observer of Dave Stewart, arriving this evening. Leader of the IW Council, trying to look Alice Baker, Newport dynamic. Please help at this hard time Dear Editor, there has not been a time in No personal individual data will be collected history when we have been threatened by and the form is in complete anonymity. a pandemic virus in the way that COVID-19 This service is given free of charge and no threatens our nation today. company or organisation will profit from you The prosperity of our health service is taking the time to complete this form www. dependent on the accuracy of data, the data supportyournhs.org Someone pinch me, this can’t be real can it? I and cupboards. can only be provided by us, the citizens. To Please use the powers of the internet and guess a majority of us stopped believing God Because he’s so busy and also deals with that note, jointly with our sponsors we have social media to ensure that the link to this is responsible for everything, so now when the store’s paperwork, he’s recruited a few worked tirelessly to create a data capture tool page www.supportyournhs.org is distributed anything bad happens, it has to be man’s volunteers to help out. Mark is an example that allows us all to propagate the information to everyone within your reach. We can fault, with Mother Nature playing her part to us all, Bay residents should nominate him required for our NHS and emergency workers all help our hospitals, health workers and too. for an MBE for his outstanding public service. allowing them to closely and accurately government by sharing this small amount Islanders were divided on the issue of lock- In normal times, most of us love to criticise; forecast the upcoming need. of data. Within this site you will be able to down; now Boris has acted decisively, to when it comes to the Council, we focus I ask you with a heavy heart to please see the growth of the areas of people self save the lives of those we love, and we’re on their crackpot priorities, the potholes, help at this hard time, two minutes of time isolating. This site is totally free, Open and all grounded. I’ve found Boris’s briefings restricted refuse services and savage cuts will allow our hospitals to understand how transparent to everyone, Globally! Let's reassuring, and we’re all impressed with to loo and library opening hours. The sums this pandemic is driving forward. This site put the UK at the front, not behind! Please Rishi Sunak, aren’t we? He’ll be the next of money we pay them each month seem will also help you, the citizens of our great only complete one form per person within a Prime Minister, assuming he’s mad enough astronomic and make us grumpy, but it nation, understand how both the area you household. to ever want the job. really isn’t their fault. Central Government live and the areas that your family and loved Mark Gibbs and Barrie Wade, Less impressive are the number of people realised long ago that if it cut their grant, ones reside are affected by this pandemic. 2020 Chairs of Code for Ethics UK who persist in clearing our supermarket the Council not Westminster would get the shelves. We’ve bought a billion pounds worth blame. Unfortunately for the Council, most of excess food, it’s all in our homes, and of us do fall for this year after year. We Brass-necked Boris sooner or later, everyone believe those new (larger) Dear Editor, ‘PROTECT OUR NHS” will have more of tax bills falling through Please forgive me, but Boris Johnson has Henry Fenchurch everything than they our letterboxes are a brass neck standing at a lectern saying, could possibly use this ‘In recent weeks, the council’s fault, side of Christmas. not Westminster’s. Two of my sons the demands In recent weeks, Keep the cheery whistle work in London, and the demands on our shopping after work on our Council’s council’s staff have Dear Editor, one of the charms of the Isle it being more noisy there - but which I feel is their only choice. been exceptional, so of Wight is to hear the cheery whistle of may not be necessary in our rural and coastal Last week, they staff have been I want to thank them the Islandline train from a distance as it location and may cause daily annoyance to found it impossible too. passes through the beauty of the Island's people living near the line? The wonderful to feed themselves. Quite rightly nurses, countryside. job which has been done to retain the line's It’s incredible, we exceptional, so doctors, paramedics I heard it clearly a mile away recently from character and preserve its heritage, at Brading have an abundance of and care assistants Culver Down and regularly hear it from the Station for example, with its museum, cafe everything, but still I want to thank are the people that Roman Villa. I, and several friends, will be sad and signal box, plus the careful painting of the public act like pop into our minds if we should lose this iconic sound which helps the metalwork at all the stations, as well as a plague of locusts. them too’ for praise at a time give our Island so much of its character. Does planting by Green Town volunteers will be, to Images of people like this. But police anyone know if the whistle which has given some extent, negated. fighting in the aisles officers, council staff such good and, I presume, safe and effective If the whistle has been deemed good for are upsetting, so I prefer to think of our local and teachers deserve our service over the decades will be similar on service and safety here and on the mainland heroes, those helping the less fortunate, thanks too. I’d also like to the new refurbished 1970/80s trains, which I for generations since 1938 I hope it will picking up a few bits for their family and thank pharmacists and GP receptionists, and believe served with whistles until the trains' continue with us and, like our church and neighbours. yes, funeral directors and their customer withdrawal in 2017? Or will it be replaced convent bells, remain part of the sound- The Island has many such stars, and they facing staff - all of whom are in the with a less pleasant two-tone horn as now character of our lovely Island. include Freshwater Bay’s own Mark Orchard, frontline. Their own personal health risk is used in the capital city presumably because of Paul F Scott whose family business has served the considerable, and in some cases, there just island since Victorian times - Alfred, Lord isn’t enough PPE to protect them from the Tennyson was a customer. Orchard Brothers people they serve who won’t even know are a beacon in all the madness, they’re they’re infected. quietly looking after their customers without When it comes to God, I’m a doubtful fuss. It’s a very long day working in a corner agnostic, but that won’t stop me praying to St Send your letters in to us shop, but Mark Orchard personally delivers Jude, the patron saint of hopeless causes that orders to his regulars, and in the case of one Boris and his advisors’ draconian distancing at [email protected] disabled lady, even puts it away in her fridge plan works. 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Services 23

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ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICES HERE To advertise Call 01983 214264 24 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Driving Society splashing through Shanklin waves

The Isle of Wight branch of the British of fun and enjoyment cantering and trotting Driving Society, a national organisation, through the waves. The Isle of Wight branch, arranged a beach carriage drive, starting at British Driving Society, runs a number Cliff Farm in Shanklin. The drive then took of events, drives, and social evenings the six participants through Shanklin town throughout the year. centre and made its way down to the beach near Shanklin Chine. They then had plenty Photos by Keith Pollard 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 25 Chris, James and Alan make it a family affair

Pictured from (l to r) back row (Con A): M. Cheverton, D. Ilgunas, K. Wheeler, M. Goodwin. Front row: (WC Con): G. Kite, J. Brett, R. Green, B. Woodford, R. Ebbs. Cowes & District Snooker League fnals bring season to an exciting conclusion

West Cowes Conservative Club overcame Player with 14 wins to 5 loses. In current East Cowes Conservative 'A' 7-1 in the second place is Mark Burrows (Lib A) with 12 Heineken Cowes & District Snooker League wins and four losses. Team Knockout Cup. The final matches were Currently third is Martin Cheverton (Con The fifth round of the IOW Motor Cycle Club's of both B and C route sections. Geoff Taylor played from scratch, with Ben Woodford A) with 12-5. Dean Avey (Con C) shares the 2020 Winter Series Trials Championship, for made the least dabs out of all four, steering recording the highest score of the evening, same win to loss ratio, with a lesser points the Jeffries Cup, took place at Shorwell Chalk his Montesa to victory for a total of 29. John winning 74-45 against Dave Ilgunas. difference. Other players with good stats are Pit, with eight flowing sections set out by Coombes was not far behind in second place Captain Mark Stephens and his East Cowes Paul Cates (Lib C), 12-6, James Brett (WC brothers Steve Chase and Phil Chase, with on 36, with Colin Brodie in third on 40. Liberal 'A' team are League Champions. Mark Con) 11-6, and Alan Lee (Con B) 11-7. Special the help of Stuart Gummer. In the Novice class, following the C route, Burrows was their star player of the year, mention to newcomer Clive Elliott who lost The ground was surprisingly dry and grippy Brian Brockwell was the clear winner, losing recording a 12-4 win to loss ratio. Ian Shaw his first 12 matches only to go and win four which was a pleasant surprise for the 27 riders only 14 marks. Course setter Steve Chase and Dave Street also had fantastic seasons, from his last six. that completed the trial, and the Island's finished in second place on 34, ahead of S. as well as the team's overall success week Current highest break is being held by 2019 ACU Expert British Trials Champion Parfitt on 92. in week out in Pairs helped them claim their Richard Green (WC Con) with two 61 breaks Chris Stay was out riding in the Elite class. Three T/Shock class riders took on the C title. recorded. Most Improved nominees were Chris made extremely light work of the route. Nick Symes made light work of the The Handicap Singles Final was won by Martin Cheverton (Con A), Alan Lee (Con B), sections, dropping just one mark throughout trial on his trusty Honda TLR machine, losing Daniel Cox, after coming from one behind David Street (Lib A) and Paul Cates (Lib C), the whole trial and it's easy to see why the just four marks to finish first. Jason Elford to beat his father, Dave Cox in the Final 2-1, and the Captains decided Martin Cheverton younger riders look up to him so much. Chris' finished second on 32, and Calvin Wright both players ending their successful seasons was most improved player this season. older brother James, a superb rider himself, third on 44. Tristan Osborne was the solo on a high. In the Over 50s Graeme Ould will play made a return to the series having missed rider in the Ad/Beg class riding the D route. The Captains Cup Final was narrowly won Bob Kennovin, while the Under 30s is Ben the previous round, and with bike issues He cleaned four of the sections four times by Paul Cates (Lib C), 2-1 against Rich Green Woodford against Josh Jones and Billiards will seemingly now a thing of the past, finished losing only eight marks all trial. (WC Con). Rich pulled back seven snookers see Laurie Boarer take on Rich Green. front of the pack on the A route in the Expert In the Sportsman class, on the D route, Mike and potted the remaining colours to win the The Pairs will involve the in-form Cox class, on 28. Taylor managed to go clean for the entire trial, first frame. Paul potted some excellent long Duo against Con C's Laurie Boarer and Jack Ayres was seven marks behind in second not making one single dab, an impressive feat shots to claim the second and it went down Clive Smith while the penultimate Scratch place on 35. Jack put in a good performance, and one that is rarely achieved. Gary Jones is the pink in the third frame before Paul sunk a Singles sees Dave Cox play James Brett. The despite a nasty looking over the bars crash still getting used to his shiny new Honda, and gift of a pink over the middle bag. cancelled games will hopefully be scheduled on section seven. Tom Richards continues to finished second on 22. Clive Smith (Con C) won Most Consistent for September. impress on board his Beta machine, finishing Two riders competed in the Youth/Expert third on 45. class which follows the B route. Dan Locke Chris’ and James' dad, Alan, stayed on top continues to impress, taking the win and again, winning the Intermediate class with losing just 15 marks in the process, ahead of a fantastic ride, dropping just four marks on Alfie Haydon on 28. Butt and Arnold win the B route, some 21 clear of second place Alfie Gaskin was the lone Youth/Inter rider, Sonny Gaskin, who had an excellent ride. taking on a 50/50 split of both B and C route Scout Gregory finished in third place on 41. sections. Alfie had some excellent rides, Just two riders competed in the O/50 class particularly on section four where he lost Cowes GC trophies on the B route, Simon Newnham and Simon only one mark. Alfie finished the trial on a Watmough. Newnham put in an impressive total of 63. performance on his GasGas to finish in first Freddie Death was the only rider in the Yth/ place on just 15, 20 clear of Simon Watmough Beg class; his first outing on his new TRS on 35 in second place. 125cc machine. He looked more confident There was a good battle in the Clubman throughout the afternoon as his score of 32 class, with four riders taking on a 50/50 split reflected.

Cowes Golf Club recently held their West Cowes Timber Trophy and Ward Trophy competitions. Jonathan Butt (left) was the winner of the West Cowes Timber Trophy with a net 66, while Pete Arnold (right) won the Ward Cup, with 68, taking first place on count-back from runner-up Paul Young (centre). 26 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020

Richard Weaver and co-driver James Pink

Richard has sights frmly set on more top results after lay-of

Like many of the country’s motoring trials in car parks around cones. These events progressed to Belgian rallies too. The first Sandown Speed Trials to really kick start our enthusiasts, Island rally driver Richard proved to be a real test of skill and are very really decent results took a while to come as season and I am devastated for the organisers Weaver was looking forward to competing popular some 23 years later, with Richard we developed the car.” that the event had to be postponed. But it will in the Sandown Speed event along Sandown winning the last event at BAE Systems earlier Top 10 results at Goodwood paved the way run, have no doubt.” Esplanade this weekend. this month. for class wins and an impressive fifth overall Plans for 2020 may have been curtailed, Alas, it was not to be, so we caught up with He said: “I began auto-testing in a Ford at Monteberg 2016 in Belgium. He reckoned: but with a new sponsor, The Old Village Inn, Richard to find out how he got into rallying, Fiesta that my gran gave me after her sight “The result at Monteberg was shock for Bembridge, Richard hopes to get out towards and his hopes for the future, once restrictions failed her. This was my first road car and me; we were the first non-Belgian team the end of the year and certainly the 2021 are lifted. naturally, I modified the suspension, exhaust and it came out of nowhere. It gave me the season is a target for some more top results. Car rallying has been in the family as and wheels!” confidence and self-belief that I could handle long as he can remember. His father, Terry Further education called and with a move rallying at the sharp end.” Weaver rallied with his own team, mainly to the West Country, a sabbatical of five More results followed and finally, after as navigator, from the mid-1950s until 1982 years ensued, before a return to the Island a switch of car to the Mitsubishi Lancer when he retired from the sport. and motorsport. He continued: “I got into Evo that Richard now uses, an overall win Richard recalls: “Some of my earliest track-days with a local group of guys and we at Goodwood in 2019 rewarded 11 years memories are of watching rallying with dad went to circuits all over the country. We were of progression through the sport. “When and his driver Mike Davidson. I would be also back into auto-testing with the club and I began rallying, I never believed I would taken to rallies on the mainland and also some of the guys were starting to branch out win an event outright to be honest. Just the Island Stages. Dad organised the Island into other forms of motorsport. For me it had getting anywhere near the top 10 seemed an Stages for many years and just being around to be rallying. There is nothing that comes unobtainable dream. Now though, I feel we the sport and the fever that went with the close to excitement for me.” can fight for the win at many of the events events, hooked me.” Having built a Ford Escort Mk1, Richard we attend and I am really enjoying the sport These early influences dominated Richard’s first took to the rally stages in 2008, which right now.” formative years and he passed his driving by his own admission was a bit later than An enforced lay-off seems inevitable for the test days after turning 17. He joined the Isle was probably desirable. However, as the next few months, with events in April and of Wight Car Club and immediately began machinery improved, so the results followed: May already cancelled due to the COVID-19 auto-testing with the club, driving time- “We started competing in the UK and quickly pandemic. He added: “We were looking at the Richard’s Ford Escort Mk1 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 27 ‘I had to make myself believe’ Continued from back page competitive and always have Looking back on the been, and I managed to channel informative days, Adam said: “In it into myself to compete at the my early stages, going through next level. While spending 18 the Hampshire RFU levels, I months at level two there were refereed a few games on the times when I thought I may Island, but was never allowed to not be good enough, because I referee the Isle of Wight, because was surrounded by such other I was, and still am a registered brilliant referees, right at the top member. I did games involving of their game. So I had to make Sandown and Shanklin and myself believe I could get to their Ventnor, and even Ryde before level.” their unfortunate disbanding. It Adam now not only referees’ was always good to get over here Premiership matches, but is to referee. also a touch judge, and officiates “It has taken me seven years in the Championship. He said: to get to where I am, which “That all helps because if one day is quite a rapid rise - one of I become a World Rugby Referee, the quickest. I owe a lot to I will be expected to have a the support Hampshire Rugby broad level of skills. Basically I Union Referees’ Society gave have managed to get into this me, to make me realise I could elite group of the 12 best Rugby go higher. When you reach a referees in the country, but the certain level the RFU start taking real challenge begins now to an interest, so I owe a massive climb even higher through the amount to them for pulling me ranks. up the ladder as well. There are “I love what I do and want to 13 levels of refereeing, 13 being be out there enjoying it, so this ungraded, and No1 being the enforced break has not been Premiership. Once you get to nice. But I know it is affecting level five, you become an RFU other people far worse than me, group referee. The RFU have so I cannot complain. I hope I five tiers, with the top two being have at least another 10 years the Championship and then the refereeing, and then eventually Premiership.” move onto another role within Adam Leal with fellow referee Ian Tempest He continued: “I am hugely the RFU.” Round the Island Race postponed to September

Happy crew on the EMCY boat Sunrise start last year

Due to the current situation surrounding activities and asking those over 70, or responsible to do this when we all need to that you will still be excited by the prospect coronavirus and Government guidelines on otherwise at risk, not to take part. be playing our part in complying with the of an early autumn Round the Island Race social distancing, the Island Sailing Club have “However, this would still have meant Government’s clear guidelines. and taking part in what is sure to be a rather rescheduled this year’s Round the Island encouraging people to travel to the south “We will shortly be issuing a revised Notice unique occasion. Race to September 26. coast, to mix with family and friends in small of Race incorporating the various date and “In the meantime, everyone at the Island Dave Atkinson, Race Director, said: “This groups and to pass through possibly busy timing changes, but in all other respects we Sailing Club sends you and your loved has not been an easy decision for us to marinas, not to mention asking our team of expect to run the Race exactly as planned. Our ones our very best wishes in these difficult make. Valid arguments have been made for nearly 200 volunteers to gather together on online entry system remains open as usual, circumstances and we look forward to seeing the Race to go ahead on May 30 with some Committee Boats and at the Club for a long and while none of us quite knows what the you on the start line on 26 September.” Richard’s Ford Escort Mk1 modifications, such as cancelling shoreside day. Our conclusion is that it would not be next few months have in store, we do hope 30 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 This week’s highlights... Observer Motorsport Equestrian Richard sets sights Splashing through on top results the waves SportBy Peter White 30 28 Ref Adam’s amazing 13 steps from Appley beach to Premiership Rugby

Adam back on Appley beach where it all began

Twickenham

Little more than seven years ago Adam Leal Adam went to Ryde High School, and played fortunately it all went well for me. As for Rugby venues, he said: “There stood in to referee in a Beach tournament Rugby from the age of 13 to 23, but suffered “I took some advice from some of the are some grounds that create an amazing Rugby game on Appley Beach in Ryde, a number of injuries, including one to his more experienced referees beforehand. I atmosphere. But my favourite so far has something he had never done before. Now shoulder while playing for Isle of Wight RFC. was told just to take a deep breath, and take been Welford Road, Leicester. I was there a Adam has joined a extremely elite group by That was when he switched from gum shield everything in before the game began. It was few weeks ago, it’s a very ‘old school’ ground becoming one of the top 12 Rugby Union to whistle. He said: “My first game was in sound advice. We referees consider ourselves with about 18,000 passionate fans packed referees in this country. the Isle of Wight Beach Rugby tournament. a team; the 13th team, as there are 12 teams inside. It is a special feeling when you are out It has been an astronomical rise to I wasn’t even a qualified ref then; I just did in the Premiership.” there. prominence in those seven years for Adam, it because the other ref didn’t turn up, but I Adam has refereed four Premiership games “I refereed at Twickenham for the who is still only 31, but has already officiated really enjoyed it. That was when I decided to to date, combining that with duties as a County Championship final which was an at such iconic venues as Twickenham and become a fully qualified referee, so Appley Premiership referees’ assistant, and a referee unbelievable honour, and I was also a touch Welford Road – the home of Leicester Tigers Beach was a blessing in disguise.” in level two, the Championship. He was lined judge for the Army v Navy game in front of – as sell as taking charge of an Under-20 Six Since then he has spiralled up the 13 steps of up for another two Premiership games before 84,000, which was an amazing experience Nations match between Wales and France. the Rugby refereeing ladder to Premiership the shutdown. and I am looking forward to my next exposure The current suspension of all Rugby games level one, meaning he takes charge of the As for discipline on the pitch, he said: “One there. I was selected for the Under-20 Six due to the coronavirus outbreak has enabled very best teams in the country - the Rugby of the core values of Rugby is respect. I will Nations game between Wales and France Adam to spend some time back on the Island equivalent of Liverpool, Manchester United always talk to the players in a calm and polite this year at Colwyn Bay. It was an important with his family. In this exclusive interview and Chelsea. manner, and I expect to be spoken to in the appointment for me because that is the next he explained how he has come so far in such Adam said:“The first game I refereed after same way. As you see these guys week in, step on the way to becoming a World Rugby a short time in Rugby, where players rarely, reaching the top level was Worcester against week out, you build a relationship with them referee, as those games are appointed by if ever, argue with referees, or dispute their Saracens, which was a fantastic occasion. which makes being out on the pitch a lot World Rugby. Whether I can make that step decisions. I had all my family there to watch, and easier.” remains to be seen.” Continued on page 27 27th March 2020 iwobserver @iwobserver Public Information Keep the Isle of Wight Safe

Everyone must stay at home. Only leave your home for essentials like food and medication – do this as infrequently as possible. Only travel if you are going to the shop, to deliver food and medication to a vulnerable person, or to work if you are a key worker and cannot work from home. Do not visit or socialise with anyone outside of your household. Do not have visitors. Do not meet up with people outside of your home. Stay in touch by telephone or online only. Exercise outside once a day is allowed — walk, run, cycle — ALONE or with members of your household. Know the symptoms and protect your family:

• If you or anyone in your household has a high temperature or a new and continuous cough — even if it’s mild — DO NOT go to your GP, hospital or pharmacy. • Go to NHS.UK to check your symptoms and follow the specialist medical advice. • Only call NHS 111 if you can’t get online or your symptoms worsen. • Everyone in your household must stay at home. • Aim to keep two metres (three steps) away from them whenever possible for 14 days (two weeks). • Use separate facilities in your home as much as possible. Sleep alone and use a separate bathroom, if available. • Do not share cups, eating utensils, towels, bedding or other items with them. Find out how to isolate your household on the NHS website: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19 Extremely vulnerable people to be ‘shielded’ from Coronavirus Last week the government issued guidance on shielding members of their household. This advice will be in place and protecting people defined on medical grounds as for at least 12 weeks from the day you receive your letter. extremely vulnerable. Who is the guidance for? Dos and Don’ts This guidance is for all adults and children who are 1. Strictly avoid contact with someone who is displaying at very high risk of severe illness from coronavirus symptoms of Covid-19. These symptoms include high (Covid-19) because of an underlying health condition, temperature and/or new and continuous cough. wherever they live or usually spend their time. This 2. Do not leave your house for 12 weeks. could be: 3. Do not attend any gatherings. This includes gatherings • in their own home; of friends and families in private spaces, for example, Grant support for charities • in a care home; family homes, weddings and religious services. • at school; 4. Do not go out for shopping, leisure or travel and, working at the forefront • in a special school. when arranging food or medication deliveries, these Families, supporters and carers also need to do more should be left at the door to minimise contact. of the coronavirus crisis to help people most likely to get very poorly from 5. People who deliver things to you must not come into The Isle of Wight Council and the time for everyone to do coronavirus. They should read the full guidance for more your home and you must not leave your home to meet the funding body WightAID their bit.” information. them. have joined forces to ensure Businesses, both large and What do we mean by extremely vulnerable? frontline charities to the small, are being asked to People falling into this extremely vulnerable group 6. You should arrange for other people to bring you the coronavirus response receive show their resolve and put and most likely to get very poorly from coronavirus are things you need, like food, and leave them outside your the support they so desperately something towards their those who: door. If that is not possible, go to https://www.gov.uk/ need. community via WightAID. • have had transplants – like kidney or liver transplants; coronavirus-extremely-vulnerable to ask for help or For the next few months, Every penny that you give will • are having treatments for some cancers; call 0800 028 8327. WightAID will focus its grant go straight to those charities giving to those in the most and organisations — not • have long-term lung disease; 7. You can ask friends or family to get your medication critical need. individuals — working with the • were born with conditions that make the body, blood for you. If they cannot do this, you can contact your This includes — but is no most needy in the community. and cells work differently – which might mean you are pharmacy and ask them to deliver it. If that is not way limited to — the Isle of “With your help, we can more likely to get infections; possible, go to https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus- Wight Foodbank as well as weather this situation • are taking drugs that reduce the body’s responses for extremely-vulnerable to ask for help or call 0800 028 homelessness, mental health together. It’s a daunting time, fighting infections; 8327. and bereavement charities and cash will be in short supply, • are pregnant with significant heart disease. 8. Keep in touch with others using remote technology working on the Island. but please do something — no such as phone, internet, and social media. Geof Underwood, WightAID matter how small,” said Mr The NHS has directly contacted people with these 9. Continue participating in your normal activities chairman and High Sherif of Underwood. conditions to provide further advice. It may take a remotely from your home. the Isle of Wight, said: “As we Councillor Dave Stewart added: few days for the letters to get to people. If you think 10. Do use telephone or online services to contact your enter a period of considerable “The council is delighted to be you fall into one of these categories and you haven’t difculty, it is even more working alongside WightAID had a letter by Sunday 29 March 2020, call your GP or GP or other essential services. important than ever for us in delivering crucial support hospital doctor for advice. to stay together and support to charities working at the Make sure you look after your wellbeing while you are at those most in need. forefront of the Covid-19 What is shielding? home for 12 weeks. “Hopefully, this pandemic will crisis. Shielding is a measure to protect people who are • Spend time doing indoor things you enjoy. reduce to manageable levels “While recognising the clinically extremely vulnerable and are most likely to get • Look for ideas of exercises you can do at home on the within a few months, but we enormous strain being placed very poorly from Covid-19. They need to be minimising NHS website have a fght on our hands. on our business community at all interaction between themselves and others. • Try to eat healthy meals and drink enough water. “Now more than ever, we need this time, I would implore you This means that those who are extremely vulnerable • Think about opening your windows to let in fresh air. the people of the Isle of Wight to give what you can to this should not leave their homes, and within their homes • Go outside into the garden, or get some sunlight. to dig deep and support those important appeal.” should minimise all non-essential contact with other less well of. Even though People can support WightAID times will be difcult, now is here: www.wightaid.org Public Information www.iwobserver.co.uk 27th March 2020 Message from the leader of the Isle of Wight Council, Dave Stewart

With the pace of the coronavirus (Covid-19) crisis many things are a priority — but one area which will become an increasing priority as time goes on is our mental health and wellbeing. I am very aware the whole experience of Covid-19 is causing stress and anxiety across our community. Like coronavirus itself, it is an unseen problem that is growing with the virus and we need to tackle it now. So, I am asking all residents to be aware ‘The NHS is here for you, but of this social anxiety and to do what you can to help alleviate the pressure. Now I we need all of you to help us’ am not an expert, but I recognise what can help and this includes: Maggie Oldham, chief executive of Isle • ‘Fone a friend’ and share their of Wight NHS Trust, said: “The health, concerns — a problem shared is a safety and wellbeing of our patients, staff and the wider community is our problem halved. top priority. The NHS is here for you, • Be a good listener — some people but we need all of you to help us. just need to ofoad their concerns “Everyone should follow the national without needing solutions. guidance on social distancing and self- • Don’t judge others — there are isolation and stay at home wherever times when we may all be there so possible, to help limit the spread of be supportive. coronavirus (COVID-19). This will help • Think positive — we will get through to protect the most vulnerable people in our community and ensure that the to better times and we can all then NHS can cope with what is coming. celebrate that achievement. treating one another with compassion “This is a worrying time for all of and respect, we can rise to meet the us. But by working together and challenges ahead of us.”