20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver

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The Island’s Only Observer Locally Owned Newspaper Arreton Great photos Friday 20th September 2019 war hero from last Issue No.57 honoured weekend 22 26 iwobserver.co.uk STOP! or get Newport ready to GO! and

Opposition to the forthcoming roadworks on St Mary’s Roundabout is gathering force, but the Isle of Wight Council appears Ryde set to push through the works to start at the end of September. Newport and Carisbrooke Parish Council voted overwhelmingly that the impending junction improvements should be immediately halted by the Council, with Tory Cllr. Matthew Price saying that hit the although the scheme had ‘some merits and would provide extra capacity’ it would not ‘provide relief to the constant congestion experienced throughout Newport’. The decision to proceed with the works was ‘called in’ by Cllrs. Geoff Brodie, Julie Jones-Evans, Andrew JackpoPhoto: Newport counillor Julie Jones-Evans t Garratt, Paul Fuller, Michael 2 8 2 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Do you have a story to tell? Town centres will News in brief Call us on: 01983 214264 Merger goes Email: [email protected] beneft from grants ahead [email protected] To celebrate the merger of Dean & Reddyhoff Newport and Ryde have fought off competition town. We have strong partnership working and Quay Marinas, berth Facebook: @iwobserver to win shares of the government's £44m in Newport and this funding is a really holders can now benefit High Streets Heritage Action Zone fund. important step towards a genuine revival for from a new nationwide In Newport, a partnership of Newport and our high street and town centre.” cruising pass giving Twitter: @iwobserver Carisbrooke Parish Council, the Isle of Wight Councillor Wayne Whittle, Cabinet member access to their 11 marinas Council and Newport Business Association for Regeneration at the Isle of Wight Council, in the UK. The new pass has been awarded £700,000 from Historic said: “Heritage for the Island is one of our was launched at the England. Alongside contributions from strengths - we have a lot of it. We know Southampton Boat Show www.iwobserver.co.uk partners, incuding the Isle of Wight Council, that historic character particularly helps this week. this gives a total of £1.4m for Newport’s High commerce in towns, so these grants are not Street and town centre. just window dressing but will genuinely help Ryde's Business Association and Town support and grow our shops and businesses Council have had similar success with a grant in Ryde and Newport, and then across the Knife of £480,000 that with other funds will bring Island. It shows what we can achieve by a total of £960,000 to be spent on Ryde’s working together and this will be the key to retrieved Address: Suite 6, 17 Thomas House , High Street and town centre heritage. further funding, putting the cogs in place to St. Thomas Square, Newport, IW, PO30 1SL Cowes Neighbourhood The two towns can now develop a four- bring more attention to the Island's needs.” Policing Team this week Publisher: IW Observer Ltd. year programme of physical improvements, Zoe Thompson, chair of Ryde Business recovered a knife from Sales: Carole Dennett, Emma Harper community engagement and cultural Association and chair of Ryde Regeneration the skate park with activities to regenerate their historic high Working Group said: "It is fantastic news Online editor: Sandy Clarke the help of local metal streets and town centres. that Ryde has got through to the next Photography: Chris Cornford, Marie Louise detector enthusiasts. The Over the next few months the final stage. We were able to base the bid on police have been working Business Administration: Jade Honey programme of work will be agreed with community feedback from the vast amount with the volunteers to Historic England, and could include shopfront of consultation over the years. High Streets Regulated by IMPRESS: The Independent Monitor for the Press CIC find hidden and discarded grants, improvements to town centre layout, across the UK have felt the strain, so to knives in public areas. and works such as arts and sculpture working have additional money to improve Ryde for The IW Observer is a member of IMPRESS: with schools and community organisations. everyone who lives, works and visits here is The Independent Monitor of the Press. Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, chairman of very exciting. We have seen how collaboration For more information on the IW Observer HPV jabs complaints policy and how to make a Newport and Carisbrooke Parish Council, can work successfully, and look forward to complaint visit: iwobserver.co.uk/make-a- said: “We are so excited to be chosen by now working with the Isle of Wight Council, complaint/ Historic England for this fund, recognising Ryde Town Council and other stakeholders to now for the huge importance of Newport’s heritage, bring this project to fruition." and the value we place on our historic county boys Boys will be offered HPV Crossword Answers - P.27 vaccinations for the first time on the Island in a new programme being delivered through Island schools. Boys and girls aged 12 and 13 will be able to get protection from the Human Papillomavirus Virus, which is a common Find Bob, our friendly squirrel! group of viruses linked to the development of Find Bob somewhere in this weeks paper around 5% of all cancers. and win a £25 food voucher for the Castle in Call 821388 for more Newport. (Must be used by Nov 30, cannot be information. used with any other offer.) Tell us what page number Bob appears on (not including this). You can e-mail the page number and your name to spotbob@ iwobserver.co.uk or text 07749 591550. Good luck finding Bob this week. The deadline is 5pm on Thursday. On the 06/09 the winner of the book was Kathy Yaxley. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 3

Transforming mental health services on the Steam won’t return to Isle of Wight A new mental health service provider on personally relatable staff members are a the Isle of Wight is able to offer a team of huge asset. Their attitude, demeanour and Ryde with SWR in charge staff and volunteers, who not only have professionalism go a long way in providing professional training to support people, but a safe environment that allows members to The Isle of Wight Steam Railway has after extensive talks. The Steam Railway crucially also have real experience of what tackle their issues and make improvements released a statement saying that its aim was finally offered the opportunity to run it’s like to tackle this and navigate through in their lives. to link to St John’s Road Station in Ryde its trains on the western track between its the health and care system. “I always feel supported and safe, even has been frustrated by South Western existing terminus at Smallbrook Junction The NHS Isle of Wight Clinical during the challenging moments that come Railway (SWR). Talks, which had gone well and Ryde St John’s Road with trains being Commissioning Group (CCG), working with with making progress towards a better life with previous rail franchise holder South ‘topped and tailed’ (a locomotive at each end Isle of Wight NHS Trust have commissioned and better wellbeing.” West Trains (SWT) were ‘halted’ when the of the train). This was considered impractical Isorropia Foundation to provide the new The CMHWS offers wellbeing workshops, franchise was awarded to SWR, according to and not cost effective by the Steam Railway. Community Mental Health Wellbeing Service which are a range of psycho-education the heritage railway. Other considerations included the significant (CMHWS). sessions that empower people to take Claire Perry MP, the Rail Minister in 2015, expense of installing additional safety The team is working with people who are positive steps with their mental health made it clear that Island Line needed to equipment on heritage locomotives and accessing the Trust’s Community Mental recovery. There are a wide range of sessions become ‘more sustainable’. The Steam carriages to satisfy the requirements of the Health Service and are supporting them covering topics like anxiety management, Railway responded to the consultation with Office of Rail and Road. to move on in their recovery from mental understanding depression, regulating your a business plan which offered sustainability, Finally, SWR advised the Isle of Wight illness in a community setting with support mood and food and nutrition. potential cost savings and revenue growth Steam Railway it would be liable to pay to live well and independently. So far the Ami Cripps, wellbeing centre manager, for Island Line and it was believed that a additional significant charges if the plans service has seen around 375 people, with said: “My experience of going through the solution to return steam trains to Ryde St were to go ahead. At this point the Steam more referrals coming in. mental health system is paramount to the John’s Road was feasible after discussions Railway withdrew from the talks. Jaime Williams, who has moved over from way I am able to support our members. My with SWT. Benefits included the chance to Peter Conway, chairman of the Steam the Trust’s service to Isorropia, explains the lived experience has given me insight that increase passenger numbers on both railways Railway said “We examined all options life-changing benefits he has gained. He said: is impossible to understand unless you have by having the two operating alongside one to return steam trains back into Ryde St “The encouragement and support provided been there yourself.” another and deliver financial benefits to John’s but, in the end, regulatory concerns has really helped me move forwards with my The service is based in 7 High Street, Ryde. Towns that have a heritage railway and the costs involved made the project life and start making the changes I need to Newport, along with the Isle of Wight Safe either passing through or terminating see a unsustainable. Our ambition remains to live the life I want. Haven. Bringing them both into the same significant economic uplift. return steam hauled train to Ryde at some “I feel like I have a place to look forward to location is part of the first steps to transform SWR’s vision for the Island Line operation point in the future, but it is unlikely to be going to during the week and I am learning mental health services on the Island. was very different from that of the previous within the term of the current South Western so much about some of my issues and the franchisee the Steam Railway declared Railway franchise.” ways to tackle them. The professional yet 4 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019

Citizens Advice celebrates 80 years The Vectis 40s Vintage Group joined Isle of Wight Citizens and since then have been providing Island residents with a Advice staff and volunteers to wish the national charity a free, impartial advice service. Bill Birch, who was the first happy 80th birthday. Citizens Advice first opened their doors adviser on the Isle of Wight was interviewed by The Islander on September 4 1939, opening 200 bureaux nationwide to Magazine in 1965 and said: ‘By December of 1965, the Bureau give the public advice on wartime problems such as blackouts, had received 533 enquiries, and in the first quarter of the travel restrictions, rationing and homelessness through following year, a further 200, which indicated that the total bombing raids. for 1966 was likely to be in excess of 1000. There was no Sylvia Williams, Secretary of the Vectis 40s group, said “As longer any doubt about the need for the C.A.B on the Island.’ a group we support a number of local causes, and since one Bringing us up to the present day, Paul Savill, CEO, said of our members is a volunteer Adviser with Isle of Wight “Since its inauguration Citizens Advice has relied on the skills Citizens Advice, we are pleased to help them mark such a and expertise of volunteers. In the early days the workforce special milestone.” was largely women, but now our volunteers are a good cross- After the war finished, Citizens Advice Bureaux remained section of men and women. Our youngest trainee volunteer open as advice was still needed on continuing wartime is 18 and our oldest volunteer was also 80 this year. We are restrictions and the problem of rehoming the bombed-out always looking for more volunteers to fill what is a very population and returning servicemen and women. rewarding role.” Citizens Advice opened a bureau on the Isle of Wight in 1964 Big Mead pond water levels low killing fsh Volunteers from West Wight Pet Lifeline stepped in to save fish and other wildlife at Big Mead Pond in Shanklin as the hot weather led to low water levels. The fish were starved of oxygen with several dying before rescuers arrived. Ducks that live on the pond were also affected, with some apparently unable to fly elsewhere. The volunteers turned to social media to thank local residents who provided useful local information and support. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 5 Controversial sale of Floating bridge ‘an parish building embarrassment’ The building at the centre of extensive legal wrangles in Bembridge was finally sold by auction on Friday (Sept 13) for £185k. The freehold of 5/7 High Street was sold by Clive Emson with a guide price of £180k to £190k excluding fees. But the long-running legal saga may still not be over. Bembridge Parish Council (BPC) were involved in various challenges to their efforts to sell the building, the home of Captain Stan’s Fish Shop, including the threat of a judicial review from another former tenant, Peter Burke. The case was settled out of court and BPC paid hefty legal bills, both Mr Burke’s and their own when By BBC Local Democracy reporter Louise Hill it transpired that they had no A Councillor has asked for the Cowes floating fails. This has been a fiasco and failure from insurance in place to cover them. awaiting their further instructions.” Further bridge to be ‘sent back’. the beginning, costing taxpayers millions IW Observer understands that Mr Burke’s information was afterwards added to the It is the latest instalment in the saga, of pounds extra to simply keep it running. offer for the building was in excess of £187k site’s listing showing both the nomination which came as the service was suspended One cannot comprehend the position taken and in addition would have brought £20k to of the building of an ACV, together with a for several days to fix the prow hinge at the by Cllr Ian Ward and Cllr Dave Stewart, who four local charities. copy of an undated and unsigned agreement west end, which previously caused problems have consistently stated the bridge is a good The building has been nominated as an between the Isle of Wight Council and BPC in June. reliable service. Asset of Community Value (ACV), but the removing a covenant that there must be A foot passenger replacement service was “What is it that prevents our Isle of Wight legal documentation originally available on public toilets in the building. There has been put in place between 5am and 11pm. Council from taking a positive, proactive Clive Emson’s website did not record this. talk on social media of further legal action In November 2018 a council document approach, ordering a new bridge based on In advance of the sale the IW Observer asked over the sale on social media channels. showed costs of the bridge and replacement taking out a cheap loan, as they have done the auctioneer whether they were aware of Mike Curtis, owner of Captain Stan’s Fish services had spiralled to more than £6.4m. with other projects, to admit this bridge is any discrepancies or potential challenges Shop said in advance of the sale: “It’s just Cllr Karl Love, who represents East Cowes not fit for purpose? Our bridge workforce to the sale. A Clive Emson spokesman said: wrong. The community doesn’t want the ward, posted a statement on Facebook, operators cannot get to grips with something “We were already aware of the discrepancy property sold; it is a small number of parish calling for the floating bridge to be sent back that constantly lets them down. It’s time to in the legal documentation supplied to us councillors who are just hellbent on showing and a replacement bridge ordered. make the decision once and for all.” by our client’s solicitors in this matter and, that they have power. There has been no He said: “The floating bridge is an The Isle of Wight Council has been asked having already raised the issue with both our proper financial case made for selling it. embarrassment to our people and council for a comment. client and their legal representatives, we are Local democracy in Bembridge is dead.” leadership. Once again the floating bridge

Becky Wall, the Island mum left in a coma can hold a perfectly good conversation She is on the waiting list to go to a less Car crash victim after a car smash on Briddlesford Road but the only way I can describe her is as if intensive rehabilitation centre ASAP.’ on June 27, is making good progress in she has the mental age of say, a 10-year- The updated ended with thanks for the her recovery. She has had a pelvic frame old. We are told this is normal. Becky's love and support shown by the Island removed which has led to her being more memory is still all over the place. She gets community, saying it had ‘helped to Becky Wall mobile and her physical rehabilitation confused very easily and has almost no make these past 3 months as bearable as coming on in ‘leaps and bounds’. short-term memory. possible!’ Her family posted an update on her If you visit her and leave, you could A fundraising page for Becky and her making progress condition on Monday (Sept 16) saying: come back in 15 minutes and she would be daughter Leyana with a target of £3.5k ‘We now have confident walking (despite surprised and happy to see you. This has raised almost £13 in a short time and still being a bit wobbly and getting tired its advantages as we get to replay good fundraising is still going on to help with very quickly). Complete movement of all moments (like the video Busted recorded the ongoing costs of Becky’s recovery. The — three months arms and legs has returned, her left side is for her) over and over again! Stag Inn on Stag Lane, Newport is holding slightly weaker than the right. The move to Oxford / London for a quiz night with a raffle on October 5 to On the mental side of things we have rehabilitation is no longer on the table due add to the funds already raised. into her recovery seen progress. Becky is fully talking now, to how far she has progressed by herself. 6 Advertising www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019

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Visit their website New festival shows promise points across the south, with at angelaholidays.co.uk The inaugural Sandown Jazz & Blues handy stops in Portsmouth to view or download Festival hit the right note across five and Lymington for those on their brochures online, days of musical styles and varied the Island who’d love to join or call their dedicated venues. Centred on the Wight Hotel, one of their tours. Angela reservations team on 023 where five nights of jazz/blues variety Holidays’ carefully planned 8040 4536 to request your included a superb Sunday evening itineraries and excursions free postal copy. with the Nick Page Quartet, there were two excellent afternoons at Browns Café, which included a great set on Saturday (Sept 14) by the Isle of Wight Emergency services called to teen party Youth Jazz Orchestra. Singers Carla Richee and Chaz A party in a barn in Wellow led to a teenager treated at the scene for the after-effects of Williams were among the highlights, being rushed to hospital and four others drinking too much alcohol. while the pub gigs included a storming being arrested on Friday (Sept 13). Three boys and a girl were arrested following Saturday evening set by local group Police and paramedics were called to the the call-out for various offences including Blues Anonymous. Further evidence All in all it was a great weekend and it is party after a 16-year-old boy suffered a cut to assaulting a police officer, violent disorder, of the Island’s strength in the blues/rock/ hoped that it can be repeated next year. his head. He was taken to hospital along with obstructing a police officer and being drunk soul area came in the form of Laurie McVay The event was organised by local musician another partygoer. Other teenagers were and disorderly. and the High Rollers (pictured) at Sandown Stephen J Parkes. Airport on Sunday afternoon. ‘Hideous’ new wall should have had permission The wall is to reinstate public access between the new Broadway Centre and Christ Church in Sandown but has received a negative reaction on social media, with many Islanders branding it ‘hideous’ and ‘an eyesore’. The new brick structure which cuts through the traditional Victorian stone church wall has reportedly cost Sandown Town Council more than £13k, with many saying it is a waste of taxpayers’ money and asking how it could have been approved as it is so out of keeping with the town’s oldest church, built in 1845. According to Sandown Hub's Facebook page it emerged at Sandown Town Council's meeting on Monday evening (Sept 16) that the Town Council should have sought permission for the work to be carried out and had no insurance in place to cover any costs arising from mistakes made. The funding of reinstatement works has been accepted by the Council but at the moment the costs are unknown but are already 'well into five figures'. The lack of insurance was blamed on a former clerk. There was no response to requests for a comment from Sandown Photo: Paul Coueslant/Sandown Hub Town Council. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 7 SWR announce a whopping £26m investment for trains? Rail Minister Chris Heaton-Harris visited Brading Station on Monday (Sept 16) to announce that Island Line’s 81-year-old rolling stock is set to be replaced with refurbished former London Underground trains at a cost of £26m. This follows an announcement by Network Rail on improvements to renew Ryde Railway Pier. Key stakeholders including Isle of Wight Council and Solent Local Enterprise Partnership have been involved in developing the plans. They are jointly contributing £1m to fund a new passing loop at Brading to deliver a half-hourly service to the pier. Mr Heaton-Harris said: “These trains have diligently served passengers since 1938 – coinciding with the first ever edition of the Beano and the maiden voyage of the record-setting Mallard steam train - so this upgrade is a long overdue boost. This investment in the Island Line means more punctual, Chris Heaton - Harris (front) with Island Line staff reliable trains and better connections to ferry services, supporting local organised by South Western Rail (SWR), how it can be left to a train company residents, businesses and tourism.” cast doubt on the proposals. He said: “It to announce what is claimed to be Responding to the news Council was a party-political broadcast for the government investment of £26m.” leader Dave Stewart said: “I am really Conservatives. The Minister and MP IW Observer established that SWR pleased to welcome the decision by were there, and I only saw Conservative had invited councillors whose wards the Department for Transport (DfT) councillors. They even had former included the line, but at least some to invest millions into Island Line. Council Leader, now local Tory opposition members were not informed Islanders can now look forward to new Chairman David Pugh making a speech. that a Minister would be there. electric trains, major infrastructure It would be laughable if it wasn’t so Questions sent to the DfT early on improvement and track upgrades, important. With an imminent general Tuesday morning asking how much the including a passing loop at Brading, election on the cards it’s clear the government is investing and whether enabling the synchronisation of timing is significant’. the plans are guaranteed to go ahead services with the ferries.” Mr Berrisford claimed he had searched remained unanswered as we went to However light rail expert Roger in vain for information on the DfT press on Thursday night. Berrisford who attended the event, website saying: “I can’t understand Newly refurbished ward closes permanently Local Democracy Reporter - Louise Hill with additional reporting by IW Observer

There will be no specialist dementia care at St Mary’s Hospital admissions, does raise concerns about the quality of care following the decision that Shackleton Ward will close provided and that was an important part of the decision not permanently, just months after reopening. to reopen the ward." The news, announced on Friday (Sept 13), follows a Dr Lesley Stevens, the Trust’s director of mental health £200k refurbishment in June, when it was welcomed as and learning disabilities, said: “We have been working with an improvement in dementia care. It will be replaced by a our clinical commissioners and have agreed that Shackleton community-based service, supporting older people in their Ward will remain closed indefinitely because of a shortage homes, or nursing or care homes. However that is not yet set of staff. Creating this new service fits with the priorities up and until it is patients needing specialist dementia care set out in the Mental Health Blueprint and the Isle of Wight will be sent to mainland hospitals. Health and Care Plan, both show that to improve mental Shackleton Ward will not reopen after the Care Quality health services we must change our model of care to be more Commission (CQC) raised concerns about the standard of care community-based.” Just three months ago in June she said: provided. It was closed in August when the Isle of Wight NHS “We are thrilled to have Shackleton Ward reopened and to be Trust said it did not have enough experienced staff to care able to offer a much more welcoming, homely and dignified for patients. The ward had reopened just two months earlier, environment to Island patients.” after being refurbished specifically for dementia patients. At the time Maggie Oldham, Chief Executive of the Trust said: “Our team working on the ward can be proud of their surroundings. It is a real improvement for the people of the Island.” The ward had been closed in April after it was deemed 'unfit for purpose.' During the closure, patients were sent to mainland hospitals. A spokesperson said: "This ward won't reopen. The new community service will replace it permanently. The CQC report, published after the ward had been closed to 8 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Lid lifed on 4 new Islanders urged to take action art commissions for against climate emergency Extinction Rebellion and Green Party spokesperson, Dr Rupert Read, addressed a lively audience in East Cowes at the weekend, urging members the Isle of Wight of the audience to take action to tackle the climate and ecological Emergency. “Fossil fuels are going to destroy us unless we do something really extraordinary” he said. “In the few years since 1990 we have doubled the carbon emissions from human activity. It is a time bomb going off, with no effective plan to stop it. Right now Australia is burning, the Amazon is being destroyed: the climate emergency will define our lives and our children’s lives. We must look it in the eye and do much more. We need to be prepared to take non-violent direct action.” Dr Read heard of the work of Frack Free Isle of Wight and their opposition to the planned oil-drilling in the Arreton valley. “It is criminally and clinically insane at this moment to be prospecting for fossil fuels. It’s disgusting and must be opposed vigorously.” he said. The talk concluded on a positive note, about how working together we can Around 60 guests were presented with 4 new art commissions achieve so much more. He urged Islanders to join the Autumn Rebellion in created as part of the Lift the Lid project on Sunday (Sept 15) London, and also to work toward greater Green representation in Parliament. at Quay Arts Centre. The Global Strike for Climate is taking place tomorrow (Sept 20) and Dr Reed with IW Green Vix Lowthian Guests were treated to a story inspired by Phlegm’s Ventnor campaigners will be assembling from 11am in St Thomas’s Square, Newport. Giant mural, presented by storyteller Sue Bailey and created by pupils from an Island school. The Great Light and Dark Show, an event in Totland by artist Julie Myers back in June 2019 was represented by a Roadworks at St ‘Rambling excuses’ film documenting both the event and the people of Totland. BearFace Theatre CIC then performed ‘We that breathe’, a community theatre show inspired by folklore stories from Marys defended by The Sacred Isle’s Paul Wilson, workshops with residents at County Hall at Mountbatten Hospice and thr WOW Women’s Centre in Newport, with help from a puppet workshop at Barton transport cabinet Independent Labour Cllr. Geoff Brodie accused Council Leader Primary. Finally the audience were shown a excerpt from Dave Stewart of delivering ‘his usual rambling excuses’ after Dmitri Galitzine’s film Back and Forth, featuring many East Wednesday night’s (Sept 18) full council meeting after asking Cowes residents. member, Ian Ward a question about why the Council was letting Island Roads So what’s next for Lift the Lid? Jacqui Cusack, Arts Manager at Continued from page 1 ‘off the hook’ over non-delivery of resurfacing works to Quay Arts, lead partner of the Cultural Education Partnership roads on the Island. who commissioned the art said: “The past year has been Lilley and Karl Love leading to an extraordinary council Cllr Brodie claimed that all Island Roads were supposed about exploring the cultural heritage of the Island through art meeting on Wednesday (Sept 25) to discuss the issue. They to resurfaced in the 7-year initial core investment period, commissions in unexpected places and we’re so pleased with believe it should be postponed until after issues at Coppins which is soon to come to an end. In response transport progress. Now we are focusing on helping teachers get to grips Bridge are addressed. cabinet member, Cllr Ian Ward said: “This was the plan but with OFSTED’s mandate to build cultural capital in children However, at the Council meeting held on Wednesday (Sept this changed when government funding for the highways PFI and young people, and so we have expanded our annual 18) a vote was passed by 18 votes to 14, declaring the benefits project was reduced by 30 per cent in 2010.” Cultural Expo event to a full blown conference featuring the would outweigh any disruption. Conservatives voted for the Cllr Brodie said: “According to Cllr Ward’s recent media well-known educationalist Professor Mick Waters. We’ll be at work to go ahead as planned except Cllr. Price who voted statement, just 463km of Island roads have been resurfaced as Oakfield CE Primary School in Ryde on Friday, October 11 and against and Cllr. Tyndall who abstained. the core investment period draws to a close — uncomfortably I’d like to invite all headteachers and arts coordinators, plus The views of IW Observer reader Alan Davies of Carisbrooke close to only 50 per cent of the works promised back in 2012. school governors with a focus on the arts, to join us for this were representative of those we received about the issue this “In a cabinet report in May 2012, weeks before the inspiring day.” week. He said: “This is just a ridiculous plan. People can see PFI contract was signed, the project scope included it’s a disaster waiting to happen. It’s made far worse because ‘refurbishment of 818km of publicly maintained adopted road of the huge reduction in traffic using the Floating Bridge. networks’ covered by Island Roads. The report also states the It will make journeys a complete and utter misery. Even if project ‘has broadly remained unchanged since December it was the best scheme in the world and worked brilliantly, 2009, despite the reduction in grant funding’.” which it won’t, you’ll only travel 10 yards down the road until He asked at the Council meeting: “Can you explain why you hit the queue to get onto to Coppins Bridge.” your administration is allowing Island Roads off the hook of Cabinet member responsible for Transport Cllr. Ian Ward delivering on the original promises to Islanders, made during defended the decision saying that the Council had consulted a previous Conservative administration, to resurface all of widely and listened. He said: “The professional advice of the highway network during the seven-year core investment traffic engineers is that this will future proof against increases period?” in traffic. Coppins Bridge is an integral part of the Newport Speaking afterwards he said: “Dave Stewart gave one of his Junction Scheme, but the work on St Mary’s must happen usual rambling excuses. He is trying to make out that the first.” final business case made it clear that the extent of the project He added that until the Floating Bridge prow hinge broke had been reduced, so I am now waiting for him to put that in last week the service had been running smoothly for several writing. I deeply regret voting for the PFI, and I know some months. other members also do. I feel that we were totally misled and I want to get to the bottom of it.” Local businesses set to beneft from new parking arrangements in Ryde Local shops and businesses in Ryde full-length of Union Street meaning week, will ensure there is a regular look set to benefit from new parking vehicles will have to leave after one turnover of parking bays in Union Street arrangements in the heart of the town. hour and park elsewhere. and encourage people to shop local.” The Isle of Wight Council is Councillor Ian Ward, introducing new regulations in Union Cabinet member Street designed to free-up valuable for infrastructure parking bays for both shoppers and and transport, said visitors alike. shoppers, visitors By providing a regular supply of and local businesses parking spaces, the council hopes would benefit from businesses in the area will see an a regular turnover of economic boost from increased passing convenient parking. trade. He said: “Across the It had been identified that some country, one of the motorists were using Union Street for reasons some town long-term parking by moving their centres are struggling vehicle each hour to a different parking is the difficulty of zone within the road. parking. Under the new arrangements, which “The new come into effect today (Sept 20), a regulations, which single parking zone will cover the apply seven days a 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 9 Update on schools News in brief Motorboat towed Venturing out into due next month the Solent in a An update on the West Wight schools saga "The schools in West Wight are suffering, motorboat proved more is due to be announced next month with the sadly, due to declining birthrate, declining problematical than Council still committed to closing one school. number of children entering the school expected for the four At Thursday's (Sept 12) Isle of Wight system. The long-term sustainability of five people aboard, leading Council cabinet meeting, cabinet member for schools is just not achievable. By having fewer to Cowes RNLI lifeboat education Cllr Paul Brading said the authority schools, and indeed having a new school or having to come to their was working to address the issue of surplus rebuilt school, it will not only protect now, aid. While in Osborne primary school places in the area. but the long-term future, of the whole West Bay the craft developed As reported, the Council had to drop its Wight schooling system." engine trouble, and its previous plan, to close Yarmouth Primary A report on the council's new plan — with anchor failed to prevent School and relocate it to the All Saints' options, timeframes and costs — will be it being driven ever closer Primary School site in Freshwater, following brought before the next cabinet meeting on to the shore. Launched a legal challenge. October 10. at 5.06 pm, the lifeboat Cllr Brading said the Council was committed Cabinet members are set to agree on a towed the motorboat to to achieving six key aims, including reducing proposed way forward, which will then go to a mooring at the Folly, the number of schools in the area from five consultation. in the River Medina, and to four. The five schools being Yarmouth, All finally returned to station Saints, St Saviour's in Totland, Shalfleet and at 6.30 pm. Brighstone Primary Schools. Cllr Brading said: "Having five schools is an inefficient use of limited available resource. Lakes sell, Reducing this to four schools would provide greater financial stability for those remaining land didn’t schools." Four fishing lakes off He said the All Saints' site was still set to Staplers Road set in more become a 'high quality school in attractive than 15 acres of land were modern buildings,' providing the Council sold prior to an auction achieves another of its key aims, securing a which took place last multi-million pound investment from the Friday (Sept 14). The Department of Education. lakes had previously been Cllr Brading said it would provide long- used for fishing and the term sustainability for primary education listing said that the site at the site and the authority was focused on was considered ideal for improving school standards, resulting in high recreational or leisure equality outcomes for pupils and creating a use or as a wildlife haven foundation for school places in the future. subject to consent. The Speaking after the meeting, he said: "At guide price for the land the end of the day, this is all about the was from £180k to £200k. children. Every child deserves to have the Almost an acre of land to best education and the best start in life we the south of Shanklin’s can give them. Cllr Paul Brading Victoria Avenue did not sell and is still available at £32.5k plus fees. End of the line? Amended timetable Body found as Island Line down to just 1 train in Cemetery A man’s body was found With just one train now in service, Island in East Cowes on Friday Line is running to a reduced timetable until (Sept 14) leading to a further notice. A notice at the stations large number of police informs passengers of the revised train officers cordoning off times and blames the reduced service on the cemetery in Kingston ‘technical issues’ and apologises for any Road. Police later inconvenience caused to passengers. confirmed that the death The rolling stock used by Island Line was not being treated as since the early 90s are former London suspicious and a file was Underground trains built in 1938 and now being prepared for the 81 years old. coroner. A spokesperson for the South Western Railway said: "We are sorry but due to a safety issue with one of the Island Line Motorist in trains we are currently only able to run one train an hour from start of service crash on Wednesday until further notice. The hourly service will connect with the ferries A motorcyclist was left at Ryde Pier Head (xx.18 departures from with life-threatening Shanklin and xx.49 departures from Ryde head injuries after a Pier Head). collision with a car at “We will return to our normal two trains the junction of Nodes an hour timetable as soon as possible, but Road and Upton Road the age of these trains and the difficulty in Northwood on Friday in securing replacement parts means this afternoon (September 14). may take longer than normal.” The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance was called to the scene Pick up your copy after the accident and Great advertising the casualty was airlifted rates available Tesco, Sainsburys, Morrisons, Co- to Southampton General Hospital. 01983 214264 Ops, Lidl, Aldi, Waitrose, local shops The occupants of the and newsagents across the Island... Hyundai car involved in the collision escaped serious injury. Anyone with any information We now print about the accident is asked 18,000 to contact the Police on Weekly Papers 101. 10 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Megan makes her Appley Tower Consultation dance debut Appley Tower will be open today (Sept 20) between 4.00pm and 6.30pm and Sunday, September 22 between 10.00am and 12.00 noon to enable people to examine a new feasiblity report into its future. The report was funded by the Coastal Revival Fund and produced by Natural Enterprise following an initial round of public consultations. Appley Tower is an iconic image of Ryde and the Isle of Wight. It is one of the most drawn and photographed images of the Island. It has been unoccupied for some time. Graham Biss, Managing Director of Natural Enterprise commented: ‘The purpose of the work undertaken was to find out the cost to bring the Tower into a good state of repair and to explore how it could be made more available to the community in a sustainable way. Building on the feedback received from the initial public consultations we are now keen to receive feedback on the draft proposal before the final report is completed.’ The report scores a range of potential uses, the three that score most highly are self-catering holiday accommodation, fund raising events and a coffee shop, but the views of the public are needed before any firm decisions are taken. Michael Lilley, councillor for Ryde East who initiated the work commented: ‘It is vital that Appley Tower remains in community ownership and therefore this is an important time for the Tower. The Tower is a valued community asset and therefore I would encourage everyone to support this project. The next challenge will be to raise the funds to carry out the work’. The Appley Tower consultation period ends on October 7. Copies of the report can be obtained from Natural Enterprise by emailing [email protected]. Patient safety Monkey Haven day at St Mary’s mourns Dougal ST MARY'S Hospital staff took part in World Patient Safety Day on Tuesday (Sept 17), to demonstrate the improvements that have been carried out following a wake-up call from the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Local teenager Megan Hopkins, 15, of Shanklin made her Information displays were placed around the hospital, National dance competition debut on Saturday (Sept 14), at advising patients of the risks they may face and how to counter Wembley's Irish Dance Championships. The local dancer them, for example, by wearing the correct footwear to reduce certainly made an impression, returning home to the Island the risk of falling. Staff from the infection prevention and with six top awards, including five 1st places. She was joined control team were on hand to talk to patients. at the Celtic contest by dance friend Mackenzie Davis, 15, The move comes after the CQC raised concerns about patient of Ashey, who took five awards including two 1st places safety in an inspection report published earlier this month. and youngster Annabelle Acutt, 10, of Brading, who took Inspectors raised concerns about a lack of staff with the right three awards including a 3rd place. The podium hitting Irish qualifications, skills, training and experience to keep patients dance trio all train in Brading, with local dance champ Roisin safe. Mullins, who formerly toured with Michael Flatley's Lord of An NHS spokesperson said: "Patient safety, something we the Dance. all take for granted, remains a global health priority, and NHS The London contest, hosted by worldwide dance body An organisations are adding their collective voice to just how Coimisiun, attracted thousands of dance hopefuls, but it was important it is." Island dance girls that took home the gold. Dance coach Roisin The NHS recently published its first national patient safety said of the girls’ success: 'I am amazed at Megan's big win, strategy to support staff and organisations, ensuring all care after less then one year of training, and at her first National provided in GP practices, hospitals and the community meets competition. She excels at dance and at school. Along-side safety standards. Mackenzie and Annabelle, Megan has made the whole Island Key features include staff training, a requirement for all proud. We are celebrating and look forward to welcoming new NHS organisations to identify a specialist to lead on patient local youngsters for the 2019-2020 dance season.’ For further safety, a new national incident management system and the information on the Academy visit roisinmullins.co.uk involvement of patients. Girlguiding in takes international trip to Mexico Throughout the summer a number on a community programme in a of Isle of Wight Girlguiding members deprived area and a conservation project have had the opportunity to undertake to help save turtles. She said: “It was an international trips. amazing experience and I learnt many The World Association of Girl Guides things about Mexican culture and about and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) have special our planet and the importance of saving centres in several countries and with it. It offered life changing opportunities The Monkey Haven this week announced the loss of their access to other accommodation, most and skills. This was an experience that beautiful snowy owl Dougal, who died at the age of 25. Dougal countries in the world are accessible to will stay with me forever and that I am was much loved by Harry Potter fans as they thought he WAGGGS members. extremely grateful to have been given. looked like Hedwig, the snowy owl in the films. Grace Vincent of Sandown visited If the opportunity ever arises for you to The Monkey Haven took to social media to announce the Mexico this summer through take part in an international trip I would news, saying : "Dougal was the most laid-back, gentle soul the International Opportunities strongly advise you to take it.” and he will be missed here at the haven, not only by his programme. She raised £3k towards the keepers but also his beautiful wife, Wilma. RIP Dougal. We cost of the trip and worked with children love you." 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 11 Woodfords delighted to be taking over established butchers shop

E.E Downer butchers in Newport, which supplier. earlier this month announced it was to close Ill health of the current owner, Greg Downer, after 84 years of trading, has been given a has led to the change in management but the new lease of life thanks to fellow Island- quality of the meat will not be compromised. based family butchers W.W Woodford & Son. Graham Hawkins, Owner of W.W Woodford The news of another small business & Sons, said: “We were shocked and disappearing from the high street hit the saddened at the announcement of the closure local community hard, but Bembridge-based of this popular store and immediately saw W.W Woodford & Sons, established in 1903 an opportunity for us to continue the supply - have announced they are taking over the of high-quality meats and local produce to management of the shop at 1 St James’ Street. Newport. Bringing the Woodford name to the heart “We look forward to serving existing of the Island ensures that Newport continues customers and welcoming new members of to benefit from fantastic, high-quality and the local local produce from a reputable, family-run community into the shop”. Shanklin’s seasonal success

Shanklin are celebrating their success in the Cottage, Rylstone Gardens, Local Churches, South East England In Bloom Annual Awards, British Legion and other features. receiving a Coastal Community Award and a Shanklin Mayoress Esther Knight added ‘It Silver Gilt Award. was good to see so many Island Towns and Shanklin Mayor, Steve Knight said ‘This Parishes, as well as businesses, represented award is a credit to all involved in making the at the Regional Awards Ceremony - and Town such an attractive place for visitors and Shanklin’s efforts were really appreciated by residents alike’. all at the event’. The Judges highlighted the contribution Steve concluded ‘The Town continues made by Shanklin Green Town Volunteers, to punch above its weight regionally and the work of Shanklin in Bloom, partnerships nationally, and this award further reflects with local schools and youth centre, as the investment made by the Town Council in well highlighting Shanklin Bowling Club, partnership with our local Community - this Shanklin Chine, War Memorial, Tower recognition is a credit to all involved’. 12 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019

Celebrate Isle of Wight Day with family fun at Carisbrooke Castle Isle of Wight Day will host a Family Fun appearing at Carisbrooke Castle along Choir, Cantus Vesperi Choir, and a Day at Carisbrooke Castle on Saturday, with some enchanted and historical children's choir from Carisbrooke September 21 starting at 10am. For this characters. and Newport primary schools. This special day entrance for Island residents Robin Courage, the founder of Isle of year’s concert will again be at Cowes will be only £1, with children under five Wight Day, said: “Isle of Wight Day was Enterprise College, starting at 4pm on going free! created as a day when the whole Island Sunday, September 22. Tickets are on Islanders can celebrate Isle of Wight community should come together to sale at www.isleofwightday.com. Day by immersing themselves in the celebrate everything that is great about This year’s Isle of Wight Day promises castle’s guided tours and living history our beautiful Island. to be the biggest and best yet! to learn about its place in the Island’s "We are thrilled with the support rich history, whilst enjoying a day of offered by English Heritage, in fun filled activities. Try the 'Human creating this year's really special day at Table Football' challenge, enjoy some Carisbrooke Castle. Together with the 'Giant Games' and Bouncy Castles. Try support we are receiving from Visit IOW, a Sport with the Island Games team and Wightlink, Red Funnel and Hovertravel, get creative with the Scouts. There will so hang out your bunting and enjoy this be face painting for children, as well as special weekend of festivities”. food and drink stalls and so much more. The very best of island produce will Islanders are also encouraged to ‘nip once again be on show at the Bembridge down to the beach’ and take part in Harbour Food Festival over the Isle of the Big Coastal Clean-Up, aiming to rid Wight Day weekend. The Festival opens all 67 miles of the Island’s beaches of at noon on Saturday. unwanted plastic waste. Sign up to join Also returning for its fourth year at www.isleofwightday.com will be the sell-out Songs of Praise Nipper, the Day’s 7ft high giant crab concert featuring the 70-strong IW mascot, will once again be out and Symphony Orchestra and a 125 strong about on the Island's beaches as well as choir featuring the Medina Community Isle of Wight man appointed as Professor of Astro Physics at UCL At the age of just 38, Dr Thomas Kitching (Tom) has been Jenny from Bembridge, although three years ago they moved appointed as Professor of Astrophysics at University College to Lee-on-the-Solent. Grandparents Fred (97) and Maisie London. (87) still live in Ryde. Now living in Buckinghamshire with his wife Michelle and David finished by saying “This is a very proud Dad moment.” their young daughter Matilda, Tom was educated on the Island at Shanklin CE Primary, Lake Middle and Sandown High Schools. He is a recognised international expert in the fields of cosmology and dark energy, and one of four science leads in Euclid, a flagship £1.5bn programme by the European Space Agency. He is the only British scientist at this level on the project, which is based on research Tom has pioneered. Throughout his career he has sought to train the next generation of scientists and believes that scientists have a Advertise your small duty to communicate their research to the public. His father David said: “Tom’s success shows that there business... is no limit to what you can achieve with hard work and determination.” He attributes Tom’s interest in cosmology Great advertising to some old books from his own childhood which were in the house on Astronomy, which Tom read avidly. He added: “From an early age he had an interest in everything. He rates available. was very quick to learn mathematics and his knowledge was beyond mine by the time he was 10.” 01983 214264 David originally hails from St Helen’s and Tom's mother 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 13 Sanderlings prepare to take winter in their stride

By James Allaway is despite the interruption they commonly experience from people on the sands, even As a picture of one of our biggest birds takes out of season. a top prize this week, spare a thought for a As someone who regularly monitors their much smaller one that has trouble getting a progress told me: “When the birds are square meal here on the Isle of Wight. disturbed they stop feeding or, worse still, fly David Trim’s shot of a heron by London away. It can take them a whole day to refuel Bridge came first in the British Wildlife the energy that uses. If the birds can’t feed Photographic Awards, and sent a powerful and rest in peace, they will not have enough message on the problems we impose on our energy to survive the winter and fly back to wildlife. their summer breeding grounds.” The plump little Sanderling, at 50-60gm it Sanderlings in winter are the whitest weighs about as much as a small kiwi fruit waders on the beach and are very similar to and is oddly loyal to Ryde beach. Dunlin. But this ‘rather icy-coloured’ bird is Around this time of year hundreds of them best identified by its habit of running in and travel from their breeding grounds 2,000 out in little groups along the water’s edge like miles away in north eEast Greenland to spend a clockwork toy. the winter there, or use the place as a staging So they are fun to watch, but for their own post to recuperate before pushing on another good best seen from a distance. 5,000 miles as far south as Namibia. This

David Trim’s award winning photo’s Cheaper buses for World Car Free Day

World Car Free Day is on Sunday, September More details are available on the Southern 22 and it is being marked by Southern Vectis Vectis website islandbuses.info. with half price travel for passengers who use mobile ticketing apps. Andrew Wickham, Managing Director for Go South Coast, said: “At Southern Vectis, we welcome any initiative designed to reduce the harmful effects exhaust emissions have on the environment. Over recent years, we have introduced a large number of brand new buses to operate our services here. Many of these sport the very latest Euro 6 engine – releasing fewer emissions than the average new diesel car.” Southern Vectis is offering 50% off an adult 24-hour Rover ticket for the day bought via the operator’s mobile app – Clickit2Ride. 14 Entertainment www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 THE OBSERVER GUIDE

SHANKLIN THEATRE Jack Up bringing the Fizz to Christmas Party nights So you thought there was nothing Mind Up’, went to number one in nine Both nights will be held at Lower Hyde in happening at the end of November on the countries, Shanklin. Isle of Wight? Well, think again! Here’s More than 30 years on, the original The Jack Up Christmas nights offer a something really exciting to look forward to members of Bucks Fizz are back together ready-made party. Event Manager Sarah as the nights draw in. and are still ripping skirts off to cheers from Moss said: “We have worked hard to ensure Beyond the Barricade - Organisers of the hugely popular Jack Up thousands of fans, old and new. a special deal for our loyal Jack Up followers the Summer festival are staging a couple of Kicking the weekend off on the evening of to thank them for their support earlier this great feel-good party nights - one for the Friday, November 22, it’s time to turn your summer. As such tickets are available at the 20th Anniversary Tour 80s aficionados and one for lovers of 90s boombox up and get on the floor. If you’re absolute bargain price of just £15 per night. ‘Beyond the Barricade’ has delighted dance groove. looking for the perfect mix of dance songs So get your fancy dress ready and prepare audiences throughout the UK, mainland The cheese factor has been ramped up for from the 1990s, the first of the two Jack Up for not one, but two of the best parties of Europe, Asia and New Zealand for nearly two the 80s night on Saturday, November 23 as Christmas party nights is one for you. the year!” decades, with its exciting concert portrayal The Fizz, formerly known as Bucks Fizz take Dario G, best known for their 1997 hit Doors open at 8pm. of the greatest songs in musical theatre, all to the stage to perform a fabulous live set ’Sunchyme’, which reached No2 in the UK Tickets can be purchased online at https:// performed totally live! crammed full of their greatest hits. Singles Chart will be performing live along jackupchristmas.gigantic.com/ or over Bucks Fizz became one of the UK’s biggest with British Eurodance band Urban Cookie the counter at Lower Hyde reception in FRIDAY OCTOBER 11 @ 7:30pm pop acts after winning the Eurovision Song Collective, remembered for their legendary Shanklin. Over 18s only. Contest in 1981. Their song, ‘Making Your 1993 hit single ‘The Key, The Secret.’

Beyond the West End For 10 years Spotlight IOW have produced the most entertaining musical variety show on the Isle of Wight. Every summer, they have been selling out Shanklin Theatre with their fast- paced show packed full of songs and routines from the greatest musicals and toe tapping tunes from stadium filling performers. Get yourself happy at THURSDAYS SEPTEMBER 26 WEDNESDAYS SEPTEMBER 25 ALL @ 8:15pm Festival of the Mind

‘Wight to be Happy’ is bringing back ‘The Isle of Wight Genesis Connected 2019 Festival of the Mind’ for the 2nd year, coming to the Riverside Genesis Connected is a tribute show celebrating Centre in Newport on Sunday, October 6. Between the hours the music of Genesis and the biggest selling acts of 11am and 4pm, residents of the Isle of Wight can attend the connected: Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins and Mike free event as a celebration of all things that make them happy. & the Mechanics. This show has an incredible The main aim of the festival is to bring people together to talk mix of material, from atmospheric anthems to about what makes them truly happy, to make them laugh and chart toppers that will get the crowd dancing in to put a smile on their face! the aisles. Islanders will also get the chance to try out all sorts of different activities for free and discover a new sense of So expect the show to include the iconic wellbeing and happiness. There will be plenty of stalls “double drums” element as featured on every throughout the day that give out information and guidance, Genesis and Phil Collins tour.. performances from a variety of different Island groups on SATURDAY OCTOBER 12 @ 7:30pm stage to see, and workshops for those who have booked early! Head on down to the Riverside Centre on October 6 to come out feeling refreshed and joyful, and bring someone along BOOKINGS & INFO who needs a reason to smile! The festival is in collaboration with ‘The Good Mental Health Co-operative’. For more 01983 823884 information, please visit ‘Wight to be Happy’’s website: www.medinatheatre.co.uk event, call 214264 Advertise your iowfestivalofthemind.co.uk.

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? LET US KNOW BY EMAILING [email protected] 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Entertainment 15 THEATRE AND EVENTS EVENTS ACROSS THE ISLAND SHANKLIN THEATRE

Strings - Amy A Tribute To Amy Winehouse A huge night of entertainment, This Jam packed show includes all celebrating and recreating the music of of the hits from the Award winning Amy Winehouse. ‘Frank’, The Critically acclaimed covers Amy A Tribute To Amy Winehouse and B sides album Lioness: Hidden lovingly recreate the live shows that treasures and the entire Grammy cemented Amy Winehouse as a true Award winning album Back to Black!’ British Icon. Performing all over the UK October 12 @ 7:30pm with their superb 8 piece band, if you Strings Bar & Venue The King is Back - Ben are a fan of Amy, this is a show you will Newport, PO30 1LL not want to miss! £16 - seetickets.com Portsmouth is Elvis Ben Portsmouth -The World’s Number One Scale model exhibition Elvis Tribute Artist. Ben, a multi talented musician, singer and songwriter had Elvis’s There will be an exhibition of scale models Septemeber 21 @ 10am - 3pm DNA in his blood from an early age. His father at St John’s Annexe next to St John’s St Johns Church was an avid Elvis fan and Ben grew up on a diet Church in Carter Street in Sandown. It Carter Street of Elvis songs. will include models of railways, planes and Sandown He looks like Elvis, sings like Elvis and has an cars and will be open from 10am until 3pm. on-stage charisma that has audiences believing at times they are watching the King himself. FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 27 @ 7:30pm

Joan Stanley - Longest serving KGB Spy The story of Joan Stanley, who was for portraying secret agent “Roxy” / exposed as the KGB’s longest-serving Lancelot in the spy film Kingsman. For British spy, is coming to Brading Roman more information and tickets, visit Villa’s cinema screen on Saturday, bradingromanvilla.org.uk/whats-on/ (Sept 28) for just £5 a ticket! ‘Red Joan’ red-joan/ stars Dame Judi Dench, a patron of September 28 @ 12pm – 5pm The Friends of Royal Osbourne and a Brading Down Road Albert Lee and his Band regular visitor to the Island, and Sophie Brading Undoubtedly one of the finest guitarists the Cookson, an English actress best known Ryde PO36 0ES world has ever seen, Double Grammy Award Winner Albert Lee is also an accomplished piano player and has a fine singing voice. He has a Bembridge Food Festival soulful voice but can equally ‘tear it up’ rock ‘n roll style. IThe Bembridge Harbour Food Festival many more. For more information, is back on the weekend of the 21st and please visit: facebook.com/bembridge. TUESDAY OCTOBER 1 @ 7:30pm 22nd of September for the 5th year harbour.food.festival running! This festival is dedicated to bringing you some of the fnest food September 21 - 22 from the Isle of Wight. The ‘food hub’ Bembridge Sailing Club, includes a variety of vendors, such Embankment Road as: Isle of Wight Distillery, Goddards PO35 5NS Brewery, RNLI, Tipsy Wight and

Newport RYDE The Pepperpot Players SCREENING FOR NEWPORT SCREENING FOR RYDE present Death In High

Good Boys - Just how bad can one Angel Has Fallen - Secret Service Agent Heels day get? The creative minds behind Mike Banning is framed for the attempted The Pepperpot Players present Death In High Superbad, Pineapple Express and assassination of the President and must Heels - A “whodunnit” with a touch of class by Sausage Party take on sixth grade hard in evade his own agency and the FBI as he Richard Harris. It’s a big day at Christophe et the outrageous comedy, Good Boys. tries to uncover the real threat. Cie, a small couture house off Regent Street. Mr Bevan will announce which which of his staff he is sending to France to be general manager of a new branch in Deauville. But things take a Dora And The Lost City Of Gold - Having turn for the worse over a rabbit curry... spent most of her life exploring the jungle with her parents, nothing could prepare IT: Chapter Two - Twenty-seven years OCTOBER 7 - 10 @ 7:30pm Dora for her most dangerous adventure after their first encounter with the terrifying ever – high school. Always the explorer, Pennywise, the Losers Club have grown Dora quickly fnds herself leading Boots, up and moved away, until a devastating BOOKINGS & INFO Diego, and a rag tag group of teens on a phone call brings them back. live-action adventure to save her parents 01983 868000 and solve the impossible mystery behind a lost city of gold. www.shanklintheatre.com Call us with your event your with us Call

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT COMING UP? LET US KNOW BY EMAILING [email protected] 16 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Sell-of screening by NHS campaigners

Campaigning group IOW Save Our NHS have announced that Doctors Bob Gill and Paul Hobday together with Colin Crilly from Keep Our St Helier Hospital (KOSHH) will be visiting the The Riverside Centre in Newport on Saturday, September 28 to host a film screening of ‘$ell-Off - The Abolition Of Our NHS’. The showing will start at 6pm, entry is free but donations are welcome. ‘$ell Off’ by Peter Bach, features co-producer Dr Bob Gill and other health professionals on the front line. The film is 57 minutes long and claims to show how successive Governments have dismantled and privatised the NHS over the last 40 years. Following the film, there will be a Q&A session. Recently published book, ‘The Deceit Syndrome’, written by retired GP Dr Paul Hobday, maps his experience as a family Tops Day Nurseries Newport GP and his views on privatisation of the NHS. He will be at Waterstones, Newport on Saturday, Sept 28 between 2pm and 4pm to sign his book. IOW Save Our NHS said: “It is vital that the public are given the opportunity to know the facts about what is happening to celebrate ‘Nursery of the Year’ our NHS. “Patients are now beginning to feel the impact of cuts to our Tops Day Nurseries based on the Isle Director of Tops Day Nurseries said: “Our Hadland, Managing Director of Tops NHS as they find it increasingly difficult to access their GP, of Wight College campus, celebrated Newport nursery are a credit to the Tops Day Nurseries and representatives from have to wait excessive periods of time to be seen by specialist being crowned the ‘South’s Nursery of Day Nurseries family. From becoming the Isle of Wight College, including consultants and undergo elective surgery, and are being the Year’ by the National Day Nurseries Ofsted Outstanding, daynurseries. Principle Debbie Lavin. denied certain procedures that are no longer a,ailable on the Association (NDNA). co.uk’s most recommended nursery Hannah Jennings, Nursery Manager, NHS. A garden party was organised so that in the South and now NDNA’s Nursery commented: “I am so proud of my team, “Campaigners including many health professionals believe the award could be presented to the of the Year South, the Team at Tops they are all amazing! Being awarded the that the NHS is in serious danger of being converted to an entire nursery team, including those Newport have gone from strength to title of Nursery of the Year South is such American-style healthcare system, which is one of the most who were unable to attend the official strength whilst giving children of all a privilege and we are all delighted to expensive, inefficient and deadliest in the world. Profit would awards night in London earlier this year. ages the best possible care.” have been recognised for all of our hard come before people, health rationing would become the norm Cheryl Hadland, Founder and Managing The award was presented by Cheryl work.” for those who cannot afford to pay and many will die. Time is running out and our NHS as we know it, free at the point of delivery, could disappear forever in the not too distant future.” Osborne Steps closed for Seats for the film showing can be reserved by email to info@ iowsaveournhs.org.uk or you can simply turn up on the night. Southern Water sewer repairs Osborne Steps in Shanklin are expected cliff top. next three months. to be closed for three months for sewer A Southern Water spokesperson said: “We'll continue to work closely with repairs to be completed, the Isle of “Following unforeseeable damage to the Isle of Wight Council and any other Wight Council has been informed. a section of sewer pipe in Shanklin, partners to ensure our sewage pipe The footpath which links East Cliff caused by ground movements, works is repaired as quickly and as safely as Promenade with Shanklin Esplanade, to carry out difficult repairs must now possible. will remain closed with diversions in begin. “We apologise for any inconvenience place while Southern Water carries out “No pollution was caused and any caused as we carry out these works.” the work. wastewater was intercepted and quickly Dave Evans, the Council’s strategic The sewer was damaged on dealt with. manager for highways and transport, Wednesday, September 4 following “Because of the difficult nature and added: “We will do all we can to ensure ground movements in the area. Camera positioning of this section of pipe, work the closure of this important footpath is Chorus call for investigations have revealed the failure to replace it and find a permanent, safe kept to an absolute minimum.” starts around eight metres from the solution will be taking place over the Project:Opera Plans for Public House to become private home After two years of bringing the magic of Opera to the Isle of Local BBC Democracy Reporter - Louise Hill Wight and drawing tourism to the Island through its Summer Opera Festivals, Project:Opera are inviting local student and Part of the former Sandpipers Hotel is proposed to become a cafes and bars to accommodate the community." amateur singers to join the Project:Opera chorus, with the three bedroom house. Public comments can be made on the plans via the council's view of supporting a semi-staged opera and major choral The Gate public house on Coastguard Lane, Freshwater Bay, website. work every year. The programme for 2019/2020 is Petite remains unused following its closure in December 2017 and is Messe Solennelle, by Rossini, and Bizet's famous tragedy, now the subject of a planning application. Carmen. Charlotte Mortiboy, of John Street, Ryde, has asked the Isle The chorus will meet for weekly rehearsals in Ryde, every of Wight Council to consider changing the public house to a Friday in term time, during which operas will be learnt in three-bedroom dwelling, with an existing flat above. the original language, with guidance from Project:Opera's In the planning application, she said: "We have had to let professional artists and a weekly fee to help cover costs. the flat separately to the rest of the building to help towards This is a great opportunity for singing students to get their paying the rates and bills". teeth into opera repertoire here on the Island, and work In 2014 Miss Mortiboy bought the site, which was part of with internationally established artists. The company will the Sandpipers Hotel, renovating the pub and installing a flat also look to its chorus to cast minor roles and understudies, upstairs. The site had reportedly 'changed hands many times increasing opportunities for talented singers. Singers of all and been closed for years'. ages are welcome to apply by e-mail to annalisa.vaughan@ She said: "The Gate is now in an isolated location up a private gmail.com before October 1 or call 07757 965339 for further road. There are many other locally situated public houses, information. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 17 President of the IOW Lifeboat Board retires Win a month’s gym A ceremony was held at the Inshore an employee of the Inshore Lifeboat of Trustees for their generous words Lifeboat Centre, East Cowes on Tuesday Centre. and presentations. He added that he membership to mark (September 10) to mark the retirement After Sir Martin had been presented was almost lost for words and felt of Major General Sir Martin White with the painting, Mark Southworth, greatly honoured; he had after all only KCVO, CB, CBE, JP as the President of Lifeboat Operations Manger of Cowes been doing what he enjoyed doing. National Fitness Day! the Isle of Wight RNLI Board. RNLI also presented him with a picture He commended the work of the Isle However, before the Board’s from the Station and Ed Rennie, an of Wight Lifeboat Board which he saw presentation to Sir Martin, he carried apprentice at Inshore Lifeboat Centre embracing the RNLI family across the out one final duty by presenting presented flowers to Lady White. Island and being made a Life President ‘Excellence in Volunteering’ awards to Sir Martin thanked the Isle of Wight of the RNLI was the ‘icing on the cake’. Caroline Peel (Vice-Chairman of the Lifeboat Board and the RNLI Board Board) and Lesley Myland (Honorary Secretary). Sir Martin White has been President of the Isle of Wight RNLI Board, a unique organisation within the RNLI, since 2006. The Board was established in 1859 to assist with Island wide fund raising for lifeboats to cover the ‘Back of the Wight.’ The heroism and dedication of the early lifeboat volunteers continues to inspire current generations of RNLI staff and volunteers. Sir Martin in his role as President, and also as the Island’s former Lord Lieutenant, consistently supported and encouraged the work and ethos of the RNLI across the Isle of Wight in trying to ‘Save Lives at Sea’. Before making the presentation, Win a month’s gym membership in a draw to mark National Robin Ebsworth, Chairman of the Fitness Day, Wednesday 25 September. Board, explained that the painting West Wight Sports and Community Centre (WWSCC), being presented was the work of Steve Freshwater, is running a draw for a diamond membership. Simmonds, a former coxswain of the The lucky winner will win a month’s unlimited use of the Bembridge Lifeboat and previously Sir Martin White being presented by Angie Rook with the RNLI Vice-President Certifcate gym, which re-opened in July after a £160,000 extension. Credit: RNLI/Mike Samuelson Enter at WWSCC on Wednesday, between 7am and 9pm. New format for Red Funnel Early Detection gives you a fghting chance

Half of all men will have a health problem with their prostate at Isle of Wight Awards night some stage of their lives. It could be an infection, enlargement or cancer. One in seven will develop prostate cancer and those with family history of the disease or of African-Caribbean origin are three times more likely to fall prey to it. The charity Isle of Wight Prostate Cancer Support Group in partnership with Ryde Lions are offering free PSA blood testing for men aged 45 to 85 years on Saturday, October 19 at Ryde Academy. The test will be conducted by trained phlebotomists taking blood from a vein in the arm. This will be analysed at a hospital laboratory and a report produced by a Urological Consultant will be sent within ten working days. PSA stands for Prostate Specific Antigen. It is a simple blood test that measures the amount of antigen produced by the prostate entering the blood. It is not a diagnostic/direct test for cancer but gives an indicator of the health of the prostate. Regular testing showing an increasing reading can indicate a prostate problem, a high reading should trigger further tests to determine if there is a need for any treatment. Despite the increasing number of prostate cancer diagnosis and mortality, there is not a regular screening test, and some GP’s are reluctant to offer a PSA test to men over 50 years. Without screening, around 47,000 men are diagnoses with Red Funnel Ferries will be shining a category will be recognised with Gold, will allow us to celebrate even more prostate cancer each year, it is the leading cancer found in spotlight on the Isle of Wight with its Silver and Bronze positions. businesses and recognise their immense men. Around 11,800 men die of this disease annually, one new awards, the ‘Red Funnel Isle of The voting format of the awards is also contribution to the Island. every 45 minutes. Caught in the early stages, the treatment Wight Awards’. Celebrating all that changing. Businesses can now nominate Nominations are now open at www. is 80% effective. is great about the Isle of Wight, the themselves for up to three categories. redfunnel.co.uk/awards and will close General symptoms of problems with the prostate are awards will recognise the diverse and The deadline for completing the short on 1 November 2019. frequent need to urinate especially at night, bursting to wonderful places to go, stay and eat nomination form found on Red Funnel’s urinate, slow flow, difficult or painful flow, stop/start across the Island. website is November 1. From November dribbling, or blood in the urine. For the last seven years, Red Funnel 8 until early 2020, voting will be open It is essential to book an appointment for this test which can be has celebrated the very best of the to the public, allowing visitors, and now done online at www.isleofwightprostatecancersupportgroup. Island with the ‘myIsleofWight Awards’ (as part of the new format) also locals org.uk. – a visitor-voted tourism awards and Islanders to have their say in who programme that saw over 20 winners they think should take the top spot. recognised each year in a variety of The top three nominees in each unique categories. category will then be reviewed by a Swimming stunt leads Red Funnel is revamping the awards panel of expert judges to decide the for 2020, not only with a new name, the Gold, Silver and Bronze ranking. The ‘Red Funnel Isle of Wight Awards’, but judging panel will be announced at a to lifeboat callout also with a new set of categories that later date, with the winners revealed Cowes RNLI lifeboat dashed across the Solent on Friday will reward more businesses than ever at a celebratory awards ceremony in evening (Sept 13), following reports that three young men before. March 2020. appeared to be in difficulties off the Lepe shore. The new simplified categories will Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, When the lifeboat arrived in the area of Lepe Spit Cardinal bring the awards in line with nationally said: “We’re proud to launch the newly Buoy they found three men in their early twenties swimming recognised awards, along with new revamped ‘Red Funnel Isle of Wight in the fading light towards the shore with a kayak and a small award categories, such as ‘Best Place for Awards’ which will be bigger and better inflatable dinghy. Dogs’, ‘Greenest Business’ and ‘Best than ever before. The Isle of Wight It appeared that the alarm was raised when they were Newcomer’ for newly emerged tourism is an amazing place with so much to spotted clinging to the Lepe Spit buoy. businesses. Three winners in each celebrate and our new award categories After ensuring the men safely reached the shore the lifeboat returned to station. 18 Local Events www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Feel smug on the water next spring

As summer draws to a close, the back on the water, feeling smug, when in fact now is an ideal time to give the thoughts of boat owners turn to laying everybody else is scrambling to find engine its annual service. Any problems up their treasured vessels. Whether tradesmen at the busiest time of their can be identified and put right, and onshore or laid up afloat the most year and you know it makes sense you won’t be waiting for some obscure important aspect of winterising your Your engine is the first place to start part to be sent over from the mainland boat is to ensure that it remains safe, making ready for a period of idleness. If when all you want to do is get out on the whatever weather Mother Nature you are not emptying out all the water Solent next year. decides to throw at it. you will need to make sure that there Your engine isn’t going to start if the If afloat the boat should be in a is antifreeze in the cooling system, and batteries are no good, so give them just sheltered location, with plenty of while you’re at it empty the freshwater a bit of attention over the winter. A fenders. Mooring lines should be secure tanks as well. Change the oil and filters small solar panel may be enough to keep and ideally doubled up so that if one and dry out the bilges as a minimum, but trickle charging them but otherwise rope slips or breaks there is another in place to hold the boat in place. If your boat is out of the water for winter it should be supported firmly bearing in mind the prevailing winds, ideally in a cradle. We’re all tempted to leave things until the last minute, as any accountant will confirm when the tax return deadline looms. But it’s really not a good idea to wait until next spring to tackle jobs that need doing on your boat, it will just store up problems and in some cases allow them to get worse. Add to that the satisfaction of being 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Local Events 19 its best to give them a regular charge once a month or so whilst your boat is out of use. A battery that has had no attention for a while may need replacing. Check all lights and other small electrics and replace bulbs and fuses as necessary. Take sails and other canvas off the boat to be stored in a clean, dry place, and get your sailmaker to give them the once over to ensure that there are no problems. It can extend the life of your expensive sails if fragile and worn parts are identified and replaced in good time. Rinse sails and any rigging that has been exposed to salt water with clean, fresh water, again this can extend their life and your investment in them. You should check all fittings, deck gear and the boats hull and rectify any problems. If you want to make changes or modifications to the layout then start talking about them now to somebody who can do the work for you. The best way to make sure that mould doesn’t damage your interior and upholstery is to invest in a dehumidifier if you have access to mains power. Otherwise you will have to rely on ventilation to keep the boat aired. Prop open cabin and locker doors where possible and fabric cushions etc should either be removed from the boat if possible or perched on their side so that air can circulate around them. Don’t forget to leave the fridge door open. And last but certainly not least, don’t forget the safety equipment. Make sure your lifejackets are checked and recharged, check the date on all flares and get your life raft serviced. Trying to cut corners here really may be a false economy. Of course you hope that you never have to rely on these items to save your life, but if you do get in that position then it’s essential they are in good working order. This short list doesn’t cover all you should be thinking about, but advertisers on these two pages can all help with advice and making sure your boat is ship-shape next spring. Give them a call and look forward to getting on the water with a smug smile for the 2020 season, just because you spent a little time getting your boat properly prepared for winter. 20 Local Events www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Are you ready for this years beer and buses festival?

Preparations are now well advanced for the 6th Isle of Wight Classic Buses, Beer and Walks Weekend which take place over the weekend of October 12 and 13. Organised by the very active Isle of Wight branch of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) and the wonderful Isle of Wight Bus Museum, the event is now a firm favourite on the Island’s calendar. The weekend celebration of vintage buses, great beer and healthy walks is already the largest event of its kind in the UK and this year is even bigger and better with 125 pubs and other venues taking part-what they all have in common is they will serve you with great beer. Armed with your trusty event programme which lists all the great offers available you can head to Newport Quay or the Isle of Wight Bus Museum in Park Road, Ryde to catch one of the vintage buses that will be running all across the Island over the weekend. Your £7 programme also contains the bus timetables and a map of the routes to help you plan your journeys. Many venues are putting on live music and others are taking the opportunity to put on a beer festival. For example, last year the Winter Gardens in Ventnor put on over 30 beers specially selected by CAMRA, they were drunk dry by the end of the weekend! Last year over 17,000 people took part with even more expected this year, with 43 per cent of them being visitors to the Island, so as well as being a great weekend out for Islanders it’s a really significant boost for Island tourism and the local economy. Many offers are on the price of beer, but others include free travel on the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, half-price pony rides at the Island Riding Centre and half-price cream teas at the Chessell Pottery Café. You will be able to vote in the ‘Most Popular Pub’ awards for 2019. Last year’s winner was the Castle Inn in Sandown. Keep up to date with all the latest news and information in the lead up to the event at iwbeerandbuses.co.uk

The £7 Beer and Buses programme is your ticket to ride on the vintage buses and also your passport to some amazing discounts – some of them are listed on the facing page. The booklet is available at participating pubs, Rookley Post Office on on-line at iwbeerandbuses.co.uk. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Local Events 21

22 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Arreton honours war hero

Sergeant John Keating Haire - Front row centre

Mrs Yvonne Russell and John Robinson

One hundred and fifty people gathered of Island based Commonwealth Family Just weeks later on November 6, Haire was “Almost at once, however, flames poured in Arreton on Thursday (Sept 12) to History Research. The ceremony culminated scrambled from his base in Tangmere once out from the front of the plane and it commemorate the life of Battle of Britain with a special flypast of a Spitfire of the Battle again to engage the Luftwaffe as they attacked made a dive to earth, the pilot baling out hero Sergeant John Keating Haire. In 1940 of Britain Memorial Flight. Southampton. He was reportedly fired on by at once. I dashed in my car to the field, but Haire saved the village at the age of 20, John said after the ceremony: ‘We are so Germany’s leading fighter ace Major Helmet unfortunately could do nothing...The plane sacrificing his own life to save others. proud of our cousin and so thankful to the Wick in his Messerschmitt Bf109 fighter was blazing and the ammunition going off, In front of a special honour guard from Isle of Wight for remembering our cousin plane over Arreton. The Hurricane burst into while a short distance away lay the pilot. the Battle of Britain No. 504 (County of John, and especially to Graham of the flames and started diving directly towards “I took his helmet off but could do nothing Nottingham) Squadron, and the Isle of Commonwealth Family History Research, the village, but Haire steered his crippled for him. I was very struck by the peaceful and Wight Royal British Legion, a specially and Wight Aviation Museum, for finding us, aircraft to avoid crashing into houses and calm expression on the face of the gallant commissioned granite memorial stone was otherwise we would never had known this killing many people. boy.” dedicated to his memory. A poem was read event was happening.’ This time he was not so lucky. By the time Haire was alive although unconscious when by a pupil of St George’s C of E Primary Haire was first shot down in his Hurricane he clambered out onto the wing he was too the local Arreton vicar, Rev. Burbidge, arrived School in Arreton. Winston Churchill’s 1940 over Bembridge on October 27, 1940, low to jump to safety, and his parachute had on the scene and performed a final blessing. tribute to ‘The Few’ was read by a local Air guiding the aircraft safely to the shore to no time to deploy. The pilot and plane came His body was returned to Northern Ireland. Training Corps cadet followed with a reading avoid crashing into the village. Coastguard down in a ploughed field just outside Arreton John Keatinge Haire was just one of the by RAF Flight Lieutenant Joel Babbage. Leonard Rowe and his son David, now 87, near Haseley Farm and Manor. 50 or so Battle of Britain airmen who lost The Last Post was played and the service went to his aid offering him a hot bath, a good Local farmer George Moody witnessed the their lives over the Isle of Wight, and closed with a thanksgiving led by Rev Janice meal and a bed for the night. Jennifer Bolt, crash and later wrote to Sgt Haire’s parents: Commonwealth Family History research and O’Shaughnessy, Vicar of Arreton. David’s daughter said: “My dad was only nine “Several planes were fighting overhead and the Wight Aviation Museum plan to ensure The memorial was unveiled by Deputy and saw the Hurricane coming down. My one came circling down out of a clear blue sky their memory is not forgotten and appeal to Lieutenant Nicholas Oulton DL in the grandfather was in the bath so he jumped out over the farm. Smoke seemed to be coming IW Observer readers to support their efforts presence of the pilot’s cousins, Mrs Yvonne and ran down to the coast. My dad said that from one side of the machine and the pilot, to ensure in future that there is a fitting Russell and John Robinson, who were located at the time his reaction, quite honestly, was after going round twice, turned into the wind tribute to the Battle of Britain ‘Few’ on the after an extensive search by Graham Drucker excitement that something was happening.” as if to land. Isle of Wight. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 23 Donation made to News in brief Rescue near St remarkable Island Catherine’s lighthouse A missing elderly woman community social was found thanks to the efforts of a local fisherman and the Ventnor and Needles Coastguard Rescue Teams on Tuesday (Sept 17). The fisherman heard cries for help near St Catherine’s Lighthouse in Niton during the evening and she was located and rescued with the emergency services back to their bases by 9.30pm Premier Inn works on schedule Construction of the Premier Inn hotel in Sandown is on schedule to open next spring. The substructure works and steelworks for the new 100-bed hotel and restaurant building on The Esplanade have been completed A parent and toddler group that has been We hope it will continue to provide a place It is expected that the running in Newport for nearly 40 years has for parents and their children for years to new hotel will create been given a special boost from local co- come.” around 65 jobs.. operative colleagues. One of the first uses was to make a thank A total of £500 has been donated to you card which was gratefully received by Chatterbox Mother and Toddlers group by Andy and Fliss Glover, also a Funeral Co- The Co-operative Funeralcare in Newport to ordinator at the Newport branch. Council help with new tables used for crafting and Harry Walker, Chatterbox Volunteer, break times. The group is held at St John’s said: “Thank you so much for the generous to fght Church Hall and has been bringing parents donation of £500 towards new tables and a and toddlers together for essential social carrier for Chatterbox Mother and Toddlers housing time for more than four decades. group. All those attending were thrilled with The Leader of the Isle Andy Martindale, Funeral Co-ordinator at them. of Wight Council has the Newport funeral branch in Cranbourn “We are grateful for the support and confirmed that it will Rest, said: “It is groups like these which partnership of The Co-operative Funeralcare challenge government bring our community together and makes it towards this well attended community targets that could lead a really connected place to be a part of. This activity that continues to meet every Monday to nearly 10,000 new particular group is aimed at parents who during term time after 38 years.” homes being built over would otherwise not get to mix often so The group meets on Mondays from 9.30am the next 15 years. Cllr. being able to support them is really special. to 11.30am during term time. Anyone can Dave Stewart said they “Being part of Southern Co-op - the make contact via church admin office would put forward independent, regional co-operative, we do 522972 or find out more details on www. their own figures to the our best to support our local community. It stjohnsnewport.org. government, but pointed is a privilege to support projects like this. out that there are over 2,500 people on the housing register. Plans for former Sandham Witnesses School site announced 7-13 sought PLANS have been drawn up to turn the may include a pharmacy, nursery provision for Ryde former Sandham Middle School site into or a small shop, although no final decisions supported housing for elderly people, with about the facilities have yet been made. The incident work expected to start in the next two years. scheme has been put out to tender and the Police on are appealing The former Sandown school was demolished Council is seeking a development partner it for witnesses to a public in 2017 and the site has remained empty can work with to bring the project to life. order incident outside ever since. The Isle of Wight Council has A council spokesperson said: “The Council Fellowship House in Ryde now announced plans to build ‘extra care’ has promised to bring forward a proposal to last Monday evening housing, with homes and facilities, enabling allow the community to benefit from the old (September 9). Ryde’s older people to live independently in the Sandham Middle School site. Once a partner Neighbourhood Policing community. has been identified the Council will start a team said that an incident The development would form part of the consultation process with residents to find broke out on Green Street Council’s £123m Independent Island Living out their expectations and needs for the at 10.25pm. strategy announced in 2017, to create more site and get ideas for how the development Anyone who witnessed than 1,200 extra care places for older people could be created. This could take a while, and the incident or has and people with disabilities by 2030 and we expect work to start on site in about two video footage is asked reduce the number living in residential care. years.” to contact PC 24494 The first extra care facility is currently No final decision had yet been made for the Fairweather by calling being built in Ryde. future of the site, but the Council say that the 101, quoting 190321955. The plans for the Sandham site include a extra care facility is the preferred option. playing field and community hub, which 24 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Living nightmares at Puckpool Park

Puckpool Park, the home of the horrific reality. ‘Park of the Dead’ experience, will The ‘Undead Nightmare’ is an Coast To Castle once again have you living your immersive, interactive, live action worst nightmare, but this year it will horror experience, lasting up to an be more intense and twice as scary. hour. You’ll be glad when you wake You are invited to book yourself up – if you wake up! Property Services into the scary Dream Clinic to have The Dream Clinic is for patients A new family run estate agency based in East Cowes are asking your dreams analysed by the creepy of 16 years and over and you will be for ideas as they want to put money back into the community. doctor and his scientists, who part of a group of no more than 10 Since its launch on September 2, Coast To Castle Property will use an experimental hypnotic people. It will run from October 30 Services have approached schools, charities and sports technique to delve deep inside your to November 3 with tickets bookable groups to become part of their referral scheme which offers brain and turn your nightmares into at parkofthedead.co.uk £50 cashback from every completed property sale. Every property seller can choose the recipient of their donation and the chosen group will receive a cheque in the post to spend as they wish. Husband and wife team David and Laura Priddle, have spent many years working for a corporate estate agency and wanted to revert back to age-old estate agency ideas, becoming part of the community and helping people to buy their dream home without high percentage fees and pushy tactics. They have begun their community support by sponsoring local football team, Downside Under 11’s, purchasing new kit and coats for the team, as well as supporting a Cowes Sports FC player for the upcoming season. Isle Be Active August winners announced Have you got a newsCall us 01983 story? 214264 The winners of the Isle Be Active August Challenge have been announced. Bobby Scudder, age four; Max Doorly age five; Blake Doorly, age eight; Millie Green age six and Levi Moore age eight; took Fedcap to deliver employability part in the August Challenge, which saw a combined 244 journeys reported by those entering the competition. Prizes awarded included cycle jerseys, cycle computer, cycle gloves, and hi-viz bands. programme across Isle of Wight Island youngsters are now being invited to sign up to the September Isle Be Active junior cycle challenge which is Fedcap Employment is to deliver the Government’s new delivery partner of the Department for Work and Pensions, organised by the council’s Sports Unit and runs through to flagship programme to help Islanders with health and we are committed to helping people maximise their potential October, with prize draws each month. disability issues into sustainable jobs. and find suitable, sustainable jobs." Children and young people taking part record the number of Fedcap Employment has been chosen by the Department For more information visit www.fedcapemployment.org miles or time spent cycling each day or week using a specially for Work and Pensions to deliver the new Intensive produced chart, complete with gold stickers. Once the chart Personalised Employment Support (IPES) across the has been filled in, take a picture of it showing your miles or Solent LEP area. The programme will run for four years time spent on the bike and email it to [email protected]. from December, providing specialised support for people uk by the 5th of the following month, to be in with the chance with health conditions or disabilities, in an environment to win a prize. that suits them such as community centres, libraries or To register for the junior cycling challenge and receive a coffee shops. cycle chart and gold stickers, simply contact the following With charitable roots itself, Fedcap Employment will be with your name, address and how many packs you need by partnering with several different organisations, including calling 823818, email [email protected], contact them many from the third sector, to deliver specialist services to on Facebook @iwsportsunit. participants. The new programme will be delivered on the frontline by an experienced team of health, wellbeing and employment experts. Brian Bell, Chief Executive Officer at Fedcap Employment, said: “We are absolutely delighted to have 18,000 copies been chosen to deliver this new programme. As a trusted Sight for Wight Plans for former Sandham School site Plans have been drawn up to turn the former Sandham provision or a small shop, although no final decisions about Middle School site into supported housing for elderly people, the facilities have yet been made. The scheme has been Murder Mystery with work expected to start in the next two years. put out to tender and the Council is seeking a development The former Sandown school was demolished in 2017 and partner it can work with to bring the project to life. Sight for Wight is hosting a murder mystery evening, ‘Murder the site has remained empty ever since. The Isle of Wight A council spokesperson said: “The Council has promised to at Millbrooke House’ on Thursday, October 31 at 6:30pm. Council has now announced plans to build ‘extra care’ bring forward a proposal to allow the community to benefit Tickets are £10.00 each and included in the price is a simple housing, with homes and facilities, enabling older people to from the old Sandham Middle School site. Once a partner has two course supper, glass of wine, coffee and mints. Limited live independently in the community. been identified the Council will start a consultation process places are available. The development would form part of the Council’s £123m with residents to find out their expectations and needs for Chris Cane, Marketing, Communications and Fundraising Independent Island Living strategy announced in 2017, to the site and get ideas for how the development could be Manager said, ‘We are delighted to be hosting this event create more than 1,200 extra care places for older people created. This could take a while, and we expect work to start and always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to raise and people with disabilities by 2030 and reduce the number on site in about two years.” money for the charity, so if you see yourself as a bit of a super living in residential care. No final decision had yet been made for the future of the sleuth then this could be for you.’ The first extra care facility is currently being built in Ryde. site, but the Council say that the extra care facility is the Tickets are available from Sight for Wight, Millbrooke The plans for the Sandham site include a playing field and preferred option. House, 137 Carisbrooke Road, Newport. community hub, which may include a pharmacy, nursery 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 25 Children enchanted with new play area Children were delighted recently when ‘Ariel’ and ‘Thor’ – from the Enchanted Isle party company – joined with Sovereign Housing Association’s property team to officially reopen a newly refurbished play area in Nelson Road, Newport. Pictured: The Ocean Coats team with Rob Walker (right) Catering specifically for under 8’s, the play area is equipped with brightly- coloured toddler and junior play equipment, inclusive Council purchase swings and roundabout, and a multi-play unit and play panels. Before work began Nelson Road Park Community Project, a newly formed local Venture Quays residents’ group consulted the community about the Local Democracy Reporter - Louise Hill with additional reporting by IW Observer future of the tired-looking The Isle of Wight Council has agreed a deal for into action is good news." park and the equipment they the Ventures Quays site in East Cowes. However Rob Walker of Ocean Coats wanted in the play areas. Speaking at a cabinet meeting last Thursday Marine Services said that whilst the news Sovereign provided over (Sept 12), Cllr Wayne Whittle, cabinet was welcome for the aluminum shipbuilding £42,000 in funding and local member for regeneration and business industry which is important to Cowes, it children and residents helped to design the development said Homes England had would not help smaller boatbuilding yards park, which was installed by Wicksteed in accepted the Council's offer for the site. The such as his. He said: "Cowes is supposed to be June. The refurbishment also included much amount of the offer was undisclosed. the home of yachting, but there is nowhere needed park gates, signs and fencing. Council leader, Cllr Dave Stewart, said the suitable to work on the boats that have given A ribbon-cutting ceremony was organised deal would secure 150 jobs at the Columbine us that reputation." by the Nelson Road Park Community Shipyard, Albany Warehouse and Victoria Ocean Coats' team of five craftsmen repair Project, with goody bags given to children Barracks. and renovate classic and modern racing by Wicksteed to mark the occasion. Free The cash will come from the Council's yachts using both traditional carpentry and refreshments were provided and characters regeneration fund, approved at the February modern fairing and painting techniques. from Enchanted Isle entertained the children budget meeting. The company is currently working from to ensure a fun morning was had by all. Talks with Homes England, which owns Clarence boatyard in East Cowes which was Chair of Nelson Road Park Community Venture Quays, have been ongoing for constructed during World War I, and has not Project, Sue Pearce, on behalf of the months to determine the future of the site been significantly upgraded since. Its slipway committee, said: “The day was amazing after plans to transform it into a luxury is not suitable for launching modern craft. - smiling faces, happy kids. Parents had waterfront development, with townhouses, a Ocean Coats are working with Cowes Harbour nothing but good comments about the park hotel and bars, fell through. Commission to apply for support from the and the committee. We received personal Cllr Whittle said: "Our main objectives Solent Local Enterprise Partnership which thanks from so many people which makes all are to secure marine jobs at the site for the would enable them to relocate to upgraded of our hard work worthwhile.” foreseeable future but also getting the best facilities on the Kingston site. Becky Haydock, Sovereign’s Community value for the council taxpayer." Rob added:"Yacht building in Cowes has Development Officer, said: “It was lovely to Praising his colleagues, Cllr Stewart said: diminished dramatically in the last 15 years, see everyone having a great time enjoying "I know the amount of effort and energy but nobody in authority seems to have the new facilities. The Project Committee that went into the engagement with Homes noticed. We have somehow got to make sure has worked hard to make their vision a England on Venture Quays. To acknowledge our voices are heard, otherwise the Island reality. By working together, Sovereign has that, to preserve jobs, to actually open that will lose these traditional and highly-skilled made a positive impact in the Nelson Road side of East Cowes and put true regeneration jobs to the mainland." community.” Hovertravel helps man with tumble dryer strapped to his back Ian Dory has started his challenge to gives families the opportunity to forge in today’. To donate please visit the walk around the Isle of Wight with some forever memories, in a hope fundraising page virginmoneygiving. a tumble dryer strapped to his back that they too can ‘find the wonderful com/IanDouglas27 with the support of Hovertravel. Ian is walking to raise awareness and funds for Charlie’s Beach Hut, a charity that provides a relaxing environment for families of children with life limiting illnesses and families of fire-fighters that have suffered bereavement or life changing injury whilst in the line of duty. Loretta Lale, Head of Commercial at Climate campaigner Hovertravel, explains: “Kicking off his charity walk at Hovertravel’s Southsea terminal, Ian’s first few steps were up delivers copies of book into the hovercraft and we wish him all the luck in the world in his challenge to Climate campaigner Julie Hutchinson of Ventnor has raise £5000.” delivered four copies of Swedish environmental activist Greta The charity was set up by the family Thunberg’s book, No One is too Small to make a Difference of four-year-old Charlie Codling, who to every Island school. She raised the money to fund the passed away from a brain tumour in 2012 donations by selling tote bags at the Rhythm Tree Festival two weeks before his fifth birthday. in July. She wants the book to be placed in school libraries Charlie's beach hut is a caravan on the to inspire Island youngsters to take action against climate dunes at Perranporth in Cornwall and change. 26 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Fun at the donkey sanctuary The sun shone on one of the Isle There were many donkey of Wight Donkey Sanctuary’s themed events as well as a biggest fundraising events Dancing Jim competition, of the year last Sunday (Sept where competitors had to 15). The ‘Day at the Races’ overcome obstacles while event was a huge success with dancing in the unique style of racegoers enjoying live music Red Funnel’s Jim O’Reilly. The all day. The event is put on to Donkey Sanctuary cares for 94 say thank you to supporters donkeys, some of whom are across the Island as well as to put to work with charities such raise much needed funds for as the Stroke Association. the free-to-enter attraction. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Puzzles 27 28 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 What a great weekend The annual Charity Classic Car Show is now in its 18th year – and proved as popular as ever over last weekend (September 14 & 15). Vehicles and their owners travelled to the Island from all over the UK and Europe, providing a spectacular show of vintage and classic cars for all four-wheel aficionados – young and not so young. The unique show always takes place at Newport Quay on the Saturday and moves to Ryde Esplanade on the Sunday. This year the Saturday show raised funds for the Isle of Wight Round Table to support children in need on the Island and Sunday was spent gathering donations for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice. Many more cars arrived for the Sunday show along the Esplanade arriving as early as 6am to get a good position. Organiser Vic said “this year has been spectacular, more cars than ever.” 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver News 29 30 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Brading Faeries have fun

Gift to Nature, the environmental charity, held their annual Brading Faerie Festival and Wood Fair on Sunday (Sept 15). The former chalk pit known as Bulleys on Brading Down was the venue for the event which attracted hundreds of revellers, including many who dressed up for the fundraiser. Revellers were bathed in beautiful September sunshine as they enjoyed performances of folk music and wholeheartedly embraced the faerie theme. Gift to Nature manage over 30 countryside sites across the Island, including land formerly owned by the Isle of Wight Council, and many of their sites include work from local artists. There are trail maps and available on their website gifttonature. org.uk to help you enjoy the Island’s natural environment. Chief Executive of the charity, Graham Biss was delighted with the turnout. ‘It’s a privilege to be able to create wonderful memories for people on the sites our team work so hard to maintain. Events like these really help people engage with the local countryside and value these important public assets. ‘We are lucky to have so many volunteers to help us put on fun activities like the Faerie Festival and Wood Fair and are grateful for all the support , from local businesses and the extremely talented artists and musicians.’ Gift to Nature will be holding their next event in Spring 2020, showcasing the planned improvements at Golden Hill County Park. If you would like to get involved and help with future events visit the website or call 296244. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Letters 31 Holmesy! The David Holmes Column Island Soapbox Send your letters into us [email protected] or post them to us IW 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. Lib Dems passes motion They belong to the author and the author alone - Letters must be no longer than 250 words please. One man, one vote! Dear Editor, biggest democratic vote in British history. In When I was a young man Dire Straits were World War II we called such people Fascists. the biggest band in the world. Now the Our Armed Forces fought them to the death name best describes our precarious political so that one man one vote meant something. situation. We have a Prime Minister forced to Today, the pin-stripe charlatans babble about obey crippling laws giving every advantage to a ‘government of national unity’ which is the EU, passed by a Parliament too cowardly Newspeak for a few hundred MP’s imposing to face the electorate. The Labour Party flip- their will on the entire nation. If this virtual flops more than a sandal factory, and is led by coup was happening in Pakistan, the Middle- a man reviled by his own MPs yet protected East or the Balkans, our redoubtable American by idiot rank and file members. Worst of all friends would already be aiming Tomahawk are the Liberal-Democrats, whose leader missiles and planning regime change. recently announced her intention to revoke Adam Webb, Ryde Article 50. Or put another way, to annul the Childrens cancer awareness Dear Editor, families facing cancer by getting a CLIC This September is Childhood Cancer Sargent gold ribbon pin badge. They’re Awareness Month, and as the UK’s leading available at Morrisons store in Lake and charity supporting children and young people Newport, Brighstone Stores, JD Wetherspoon with cancer, CLIC Sargent is highlighting the pub or selected H Samuel and Ernest Jones financial impact of cancer on families. stores, or order one online, for a suggested In the UK it’s an average 60-mile round donation of £1. trip to hospital for children and young people We also have lots of fundraising to get to life-saving cancer treatment, with opportunities and are calling on the many travelling much further. This isn’t by community to sign up to Challenge60. You choice. Many young cancer patients have to could run 60 miles throughout the month Did you hear about that £5 million golden Liberal and Socialist leaders saying, ‘this travel to specialist cancer centres around the (two miles a day), complete a 60-mile bike toilet, stolen from Blenheim Palace? Police is a once in a lifetime referendum and UK to get the care they need – they can’t just ride, or even hop, we don't mind! have nothing to go on but should definitely we must respect the result.’ Chancellor go to their local hospital. We’d like to thank the community for start searching in Bournemouth where Osbourne promised all kinds of horror if That 60-mile trip can cost families an extra their ongoing support. Their efforts mean the Lib-Dems have been in conference. we dared vote leave, including ‘higher £180 a month when treatment is at its most CLIC Sargent can be there for the children Comically, the Lib-Dems have passed a interest rates, an emergency budget and intense. This is at a time when other costs and young people from the Isle of Wight motion abolishing Brexit. They’ve always tax rises within a week.’ He also warned have risen and one or both parents may have with cancer, keeping families together by been the party of wishful thinking, now of ‘major job-losses and a third off the given up their job or cut back their hours so providing Home from Homes near hospitals they desperately hope to flush away price of your house.’ For those with big they can be with their child. and financial grants for support. memories of that tuition fee betrayal, mortgages, or close to negative equity, It’s bad enough that families are having For more information about Childhood support for the Tories austerity measures, this was scary stuff. Brilliantly, enough of to deal with the devastation of their child Cancer Awareness Month, visit: www. Nick Clegg and Cyril Smith, that’s quite a us ignored the lies and the mass of dodgy having cancer, but many are struggling with clicsargent.org.uk/ccam. pan full. The Lib-Dems were in favour of government funded advertising and got the the cost of taking their child to hospital and Yours faithfully, Cameron’s referendum, they even called result the establishment really didn’t want. many are being plunged into debt. On top Liz Blunt for it, but once they lost and in the event of 17.4 million of us voted leave and I have of the emotional and practical stresses of Fundraising Engagement Manager South another one, say they would keep us in the never been more impressed by the people cancer, this isn’t right or fair. Central [email protected] EU regardless. How very undemocratic and speaking through the ballot box. People in the community can help support illiberal of them. No wonder they got just Straightaway, the morning after, I 7% of the votes last time. People attracted remember hearing those on our (winning) to politics are often like this, they start with side say, ‘they won’t accept this result’ and a sense of superiority and once elected, of course, they were right, they didn’t, and their desire for more power and money so it began. Three years later, it still drags Parking nightmare in Wilver Road becomes insatiable. on, Corbyn is now confused and undecided Dear Editor, the Caesars Road residents that park in our David Cameron and Cameron is back Well done to the Parish Council of Newport road because workers park in their road all enjoyed an early life with a book to sell, and Carisbrooke for appointing an officer day so they can't. We get white vans, pick up of great privilege telling us once from the Isle of Wight Council to introduce trucks, camper vans, the daisy van, workers/ and inherited a again that we residents parking zones. shoppers who don’t want to pay for parking fortune. Having “Chancellor made a terrible With Prospect Road being the first to in Newport, not to mention the fact that most had the best of mistake. Without agree to a RPZ, I see that several more roads residents in Wilver Road have two vehicles so everything, he embarrassment, including Caesars Road, Drill Hall Road and there is always a battle to find a space. Take a turned his soft idle Osbourne posh Dave says Field Place have now received consultation look at Alderbury Road and you will see that hands to politics leaving was (and letters asking if they wish to have RPZ’s. most front gardens have been paved over and became Prime is) just plain wrong As a resident of Wilver Road, I feel that the just to guarantee a parking space which also Minister. Call me promised and was just a comment from Councillor Julie Jones-Evans means nobody can park on the road outside Dave’s big political cynical career that “This would have a knock on effect on those houses, so even less parking available. gamble, his all kinds of choice for Boris, other roads” is the understatement of the Where are all the extra cars going to park if legacy, was to call who he claims year! all roads mentioned go for RPZ, maybe you that referendum, didn’t really want We already suffer extra parking traffic could build a multi storey car park in Wilver confidently horror” to leave. Dave since parking meters were installed at the Road to accommodate all and sundry who use expecting to throws buckets of top of the High Street and parents parking it — which would also provide a space for the neutralise the manure at some to take their children to school and pick residents who actually live there. anti-EU element in other former Tory them up in the afternoon. Not to mention A Wilver Street resident his party ‘once and for all’. Cameron badly colleagues too, including needed to stop the Tory membership leaving ex-close friend Michael to join Farage’s UKIP. In a perfect storm, Gove. Cameron didn’t get what he wanted, Dave was further backed into a corner by just like Labour, the Libdems and ex-PM’S the EU, when he returned from Brussels Major, Blair and Brown. These characters Send your letters into us hoping we’d all believe he’d successfully can’t help themselves; without real power, negotiated a new deal for Britain, absolutely they resort to scare stories and child-like no-one believed his tosh. tantrums. They whine that they know As referendum day drew closer, Cameron better than you and claim to be acting in became increasingly desperate to get remain the national interest. Well thankfully, their [email protected] ‘over the line’. You can easily find YouTube time has passed, flushed away like that videos of Dave and prominent Remainer golden loo. 32 Services www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 SERVICES To advertise here call 01983 214264

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Observer Bob Henly Trophy awards for young cricketers SportBy Peter White Sandown Bowls Club Finals weekend

Ladies Championship: Maureen Burgess beat Yvonne Southerton 21 – 10 Men’s Championship: Bob Mortlock beat John Attrill 21 – 9 Ladies 2 Wood 15 Up Championship: Maureen Burgess beat Ann Champion 15 – 7 Ladies 4 Wood 100 Up Championship: Maureen Burgess beat Mhaira Day 05 – 65 Men’s 2 Wood 15 Up Championship: John Attrill beat Tony Churms 15 – 14 Men’s 4 Wood 100 Up Championship: John Attrill beat Cam Crawford 100 – 60 Handicap Singles Championship: John Attrill beat Bob Mortlock 21 – 12 Novice Championship: Graham Kilby beat Yvonne Southerton 21 – 8 Mixed Pairs Championship: Eileen Hampshire/Pat Smythe beat Angela Green/Greg Bridgewater Pictured with Xavier are Oli Soames and Joe Weatherley from Hampshire and Phil Mew Chairman of the IW Cricket Board. 22 – 18 Ryde School student, Xavier Meadows, 11, was presented or who have scored a century in an innings. Mixed Triples Championship: Mike Bradford/Pat McCartney/Tony with the Bob Henly Trophy for best bowling at Newclose The trophy for best batting by a young player was won Churms beat Eileen Hampshire/Co Champion/ Graham Meakin 18 by a young player in 2019. Xavier took 5 wickets for 14 by disability cricketer, Jayden Frankling, who scored - 13 runs against Bembridge & St Helens in the Under-11 final 50 not out for the Isle of Wight against Oxfordshire. at Newclose. Xavier’s name will also be placed on the Unfortunately, Jayden was unable to collect the trophy in honours board at Newclose, which commemorates all person. Golf results from cricketers who have either taken five wickets in a match around the Island Newclose cricket ground Ryde Golf Club (Ladies Section): Daily Mail Foursomes: 1 Sue Cox and Debbie Skoludek 74.5 2 Julia Bailey and Julia Fauvel celebrates 10th anniversary 76, 3 Lynne Backshall and Marg Kirby 79.5 Isobelle Hill Trophy Stableford: The Isle of Wight cricket ground at Newclose celebrated Soames were thanked for returning to Newclose for the 1 Kath Love 36 pts, 2 Sue Cox 32, 3 Marg Kirby 31 (ocb) its tenth anniversary with a match between Newclose CC end of season celebration. Both confirmed how much they and Milton Bryan CC from Bedfordshire, which Newclose, enjoyed playing at Newclose and shared the hope that batting first, won in a close finish. 2020 would see more County cricket played at Newclose.. Cowes Golf Club: More than 50 people were in attendance, including IW The Hampshire players feature in the photograph along Lord Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon, and many volunteers with a number of Newclose members and supporters. Coleby: 1 Barry Flood nett 31 ocb, Terry Crews 31, 3 Doug Wren 32; who helped to make the County Match Best gross: Viv Jenkins 39 in May a success. Each Newclose Ladies Stableford: 1 Julia Bailey 378 pts, 2 Gill Reynolds 31 volunteer received a certificate as Pyrah Stableford: 1 Shaun Collins 42 pts, 2 Kevin Parkin 40, 3 Billy attached signed by the two Hampshire Hall 39. players. Sunday Stableford: 1 Chris Prendergast 44 pts, 2 Andrew Read 42, Newclose Trustee, Hugh Griffiths, 3 Kurt Anderson 41. thanked the many people and organisations on the Isle of Wight who had created and then maintained Newport Golf Club: Newclose since it was officially opened on 27th July 2009 by former England 9 Hole Stableford: 1 Chris Hedgecox (25) 21pts, 2 Mark Deacon(12) Captain Mike Gatting. The early 21, years had seen Ventnor 1st XI playing Thursday Medal: 1 Bob Robinson (16) 66nett, 2 Alan Day (7) 71, 3 Premier League Cricket at the ground Stephen Johnson (7) 71. with Danny Briggs and Adam Hose Saturday Stableford: 1 Ben Ringer (8) 39pts, Tim Exell (24) 38, 3 representing the club before going on Rob Turner (5) 37. to play for First Class County teams. Saturday & Sunday Stableford, Cridland Cup: 1 Tom Caddy 73pts Throughout the ten years since 2009 2 Matt Brailsford 70, 3 Jaimie Currie 68. the Isle of Wight Cricket Board has had Sunday Stableford: 1 Mark Hancott (5) 38pts 2 Paul Williams (14) Newclose as its base and played regular 38, 3 Paul Rassmussen (9) 35. matches featuring County Youth squads and the IW Disability XI. The Board also organises schools competitions Shanklin and Sandown Golf Club: and coaching for children from age 5 Ladies Stableford, Silver Division: 1 Christine Smith 40, 2 Sarah upwards. Cricket Board Chairman Phil Hammond 35, 3 Chris Gould 34. Mew spoke of the opportunities for Bronze Division: 1 Anna Garriock 34, 2 Lillian Bushby 32, 3 Hazel cricket as a sport nationally and locally Smith 32. and the enjoyment boys and girls could Ladies 9 hole Stableford: 1 Margaret McClelland 12. experience from participating. Phil Open Stableford: 1 Lawrence Tolfrey 38, 2 Ashley Lawrence 37, 3 mentioned the England team’s World Rick Scoble 36. Cup success and how that had boosted Sherry Memorial Stableford: 1 Gary Meszynski 43, 2 James Fosker the appeal of cricket to all age groups. 42, 3 Stephen King 42. On the Island, the season has been all Monthly Stableford: 1 Steve Collins 41, 2 Sean Millward 41, 3 the more memorable as a result of the Campbell Laird 38. Hampshire versus Nottinghamshire match in May. Joe Weatherley and Oli 34 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Island triathlete represents Islander Jan Fletcher qualifes for European Triathlon Championships Britain in Netherlands Wight Tri members and IW Wight Triathlon Talented Athlete Award recipients, members, Steve Jan Fletcher and Glyn Jenkins, Goodier, Pete Carter and competed in the Brighton and Hove Nina French travelled to Standard Distance Triathlon, the Almere, Netherlands, to European Age Group Championship take on the Challenge qualifier for Tartu, Estonia in 2020. Almere Triathlons. Jan was first home for the Steve Goodier took club, earning the 1st automatic on the Challenge qualification place for the European Almere Long Distance Championships in Tartu in 2020 Triathlon, in which he in her new age group (45-49). Jan would be representing completed the race in an overall Team GB for the first time of 2hrs 33mins 17sec, 5th in time. Everything went her current age group (40-44) but as to plan, as he had a she moves up to the next age group solid swim of 1:14:06, a (45-49) next year, she took the first super fast 5:15:10 bike, qualification place for Tartu. followed by posting Glyn finished in 3:06:49, having a 3:38:25 run for a completed the run in 57:33, also total time of 10:14:24. finishing 5th overall in his age Steve finally finished group. As only the first 4 places 17th from 34 in the qualify automatically he will have European Long Course to wait to see if he earns a roll down Championships for the spot. and has now qualified for the Age Group 45-49 age group. Both Jan and Glyn have had a super year World Standard Distance Championships Nina French competed wearing the GB colours. in Canada, the European Standard Distance in the Challenge Almere Glyn has represented Team GB in The Championships in Tartu and also the Middle Distance Event European Standard Distance Triathlon European Sprint Distance Championships in and put in a solid swim, a fast bike and a age group for the Challenge Almere Long Championships in Weert, Netherlands Distance Open Race. Malmo in 2020. ballsy run to win the 55-59 age group. With and also the World Standard Distance Jan said: “It’s going to be a busy 2020 but split times of 39:34 for the swim, 2:53:22 All 3 Wight Triathlon members achieved Championships in Lausanne, Switzerland. Personal Best Times. I’m looking forward to donning the GB kit bike, 1:59:56 run, for a total time of 5:43:42. Jan has represented team GB at her first again.” Pete Carter finished 15th in the 45-49 European championships also in Weert, Warriors play of hopes dashed The Isle of Wight ‘Wightlink’ Warriors hopes of a place in the end of season play-offs were dashed as rival side Cradley Heathens won a tense last race battle against Kent Kings. The three league points gained by the Heathens in their final fixture catapulted them to fourth place in the league and out of the Warriors reach. Whilst there will be sadness that the play-off dream has ended, the club will be hoping that captain Ben Morley (pictured) can deliver a boost at the end of the season as he defends his National Port wrecked League Riders Championship title at Leicester on Sunday afternoon. The line up is expected to be: Ryan Kinsley by Boatmen in (Mildenhall), Kyle Bickley (Belle Vue Colts), Jordan Palin (Belle Vue Colts), Ben Morley (IOW), Ellis Perks (Leicester), Danyon Hume (Leicester), exciting game Tom Perry (Stoke), Joe Lawlor (Stoke), Jason Edwards (Mildenhall), Nathan Stoneman Hampshire Senior Cup: Newport IW 0-6 Sholing (Plymouth), Drew Kemp (Kent), Leon Flint (Belle British Grand Prix at the Principality Stadium on Saturday Vue Colts), Max Clegg (Cradley), Anders Rowe (Kent), Connor night in front of 40,000 fervent fans. What a night that will Wessex League One Newport go down six-nil to Southern Coles (Stoke), Ben Wilson (Plymouth). be! League Sholing. Warriors’ co-promoter, Barry Bishop, said: “That result “Right now, I do feel for everyone and I mean everyone who Sholing went in front in the 16th minute, when Brad Targett from Cradley was not what we were expecting and clearly not has worked so hard to get us to the edge of the play-offs, but knocked the ball past Gary Streeter and into the corner. The what we wanted. It brings to an end our 2019 team activity. when you look at our season as a whole, both on and off track, game was then stopped when a small dog decided to invade We will look back and no doubt reflect on a lost point here or I am pleased and proud that we can report on another year the pitch, much to the crowd’s amusement. Port created a lost point there that would have made all the difference, but of progress, innovation and improvement in all that we do. some decent chances, but hurried finishing let them down. that is the nature of most sports. We will celebrate our achievements the Warriors Way, and I Sholing keeper Gosney did well to save Joe Craig’s shot after “We do, of course, have Ben on duty for us at Leicester on urge all our supporters to join us on November 9 at our End an underhit backpass was presented to him. Craig was to Sunday and we wish him the very best of luck in a meeting Of Season Party as we relive our memories and reward those shoot wide when presented with another scoring opportunity packed with all the available stars from the National League. who make this club so special.” soon after. “We also have our Start Marshal, Chris Cass, in action at the Sholing had their second goal on 31 mins when Brad Targett poked the ball back past Gary Streeter. 10 minutes later, James Lauder shot low from the edge of the area across the keeper and into the far corner to give the side from Southampton a Vics hold heads high in defeat against Borough 0-3 half-time lead. After the restart, Sholing were camped in the Newport half East Cowes Vics crashed out of the setting up Lea who finished well. end, Roberts added to Borough’s tally with Alex Sawyer scoring in the 54th and 60th minutes. Port Hampshire Senior Cup after defeat at Borough were caught napping two with a deflected effort to make the final almost scored a spectacular goal on 75 mins as Lewis Wright Southern League Gosport Borough on minutes into the second period when score 6-2 to the home side. smashed a 25 yard shot that hammered off the underside of Tuesday night. Eli Ahmed slotted round the Gosport After the match, Vics manager, Steve the bar. With the last action of the game, Brad Targett was The gallant visitors kept Borough at keeper. Robinson restored Borough’s Brougham said. “We were playing a on target once again for the visitors, to complete his hat- bay for 40 minutes but after that the two-goal advantage just after the hour side three leagues above us, who pay trick and send the Boatmen back across the Solent with a 6-0 floodgates opened. mark with an unstoppable 30-yard a high wages bill. Gosport played their victory. The home side, aiming to avoid a third shot. On 65 minutes, substitute Pat strongest side, but we still gave them a After the match, Port manager, Andy Sampson, blamed the cup exit in four games after FA Cup and Suraci floated in a corner for Paterson good game and managed to create some loss on inexperience in defending. He was also full of praise Southern League Cup losses to lower to score a fourth for Borough. Paterson chances of our own. We also kept the for the Southampton club, which he would like his club to division opposition, took the game to then turned goal-maker with a perfect game scoreless almost until the stroke emulate. their Wessex Division One visitors right through ball for Kennedy to convert in of half time. The Port boss said: “Sholing is where we want to be as a from the start. The pressure finally told the 75th minute.. “I couldn’t have asked for anything club. They have nurtured their players and are now reaping five minutes before the break when Gallant Vics kept going and were more from my players, who never gave the rewards. Their youngsters have grown with the club. Argent gave Borough the lead. Having rewarded with their second goal, a Liam up.” Hopefully, our youngsters will likewise grow with Newport found their goal touch, Borough added Newbold header from a corner kick in football club.” a second within two minutes: Kennedy the 77th minute. Ten minutes from the 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 35 Summer dressage reaps champions

Lake Farm Equitation Centre’s 2019 summer Class 2 Senior Reserve Champion dressage competition concluded last - Natalie Broughman & Abbotswood weekend with the crowning of the overall Avatar series champions and reserve champions. Class 3 Champion - Bella Green & The series was sponsored by J A Dempsey Civil Engineering and the Island Animal Mischief Maker Physiotherapy. Class 3 Reserve Champion - Luke Wilson & Southborne Celtic Charm Class 1 Champion - Scarlett Tharme & Class 4 Champion - Alison Hill & Tireve Oakmill Horatio Triple Six Class 1 Reserve Champion - Maisie Class 4 Reserve Champion - Shannon Whittington & Poppy Cox & LK Saffira Class 2 Junior Champion - Bella Green Class 5 Champion - Lorie Sims & Ollie & Mischief Maker Class 5 Reserve Champion - Heidi Class 2 Junior Reserve Champion - Carden & Scooby Mollie Brown & Briars Anniversary Class 6 Champion - Lorie Sims & Ollie Class 2 Senior Champion - Luke Wilson Class 6 Reserve Champion - Heidi & Southborne Celtic Charm Carden & Scooby

Photo - Phil Sampson 36 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Finding the next Mason Mount Cowes Sports FC manager and Chelsea FC programme for them to help progress their training on Mondays. Foundation IOW Coordinator, Steve Rutter, careers. Chelsea Foundation have exciting plans talks exclusively to the IW Observer about “We have spoken with several schools about with Cowes Enterprise College to set up his role as Football Development Coordinator creating activity opportunities to get kids a college academy programme for sixth- for Chelsea Football Club Foundation on the active and involved in sport. We aim to teach formers in 2020. The charity is recruiting Island. both boys and girls of all ages and abilities. students to deliver two male teams, with 2 As reported in IW Observer (Issue 54), “The foundation also delivers a Learn to squads of 16 players in each as well as a Girls former professional footballer, Steve Rutter, Coach programme in secondary schools College Academy Team. The teams would was recruited by Chelsea FC Foundation in for disengaged students that are perhaps play in the U19 National Youth League and August to develop the charity’s programme struggling to engage with core learning the Hampshire Colleges League. on the Isle of Wight . One month into his subjects, the programme aims to use the Steve said: “Those joining the college appointment, we spoke to him about Chelsea football as a catalyst for engaging them into academy would need to have achieved the FC Foundation’s vision for supporting young earning with core subjects like math and right level of academic attainment to be people in becoming active and creating a English incorporated into a football based accepted into the sixth form, although we professional pathway into elite sport. learning the LTC programme is delivered hope to have a small degree of flexibility with Firstly, we asked him why Chelsea had over an 8 week period, students involved exceptional players. At 16, if you are good decided to invest in Island youngsters. The in the programme must improve their enough, you are old enough to play senior Yachtsmen’s manager, Steve, said: “Chelsea attendance, timekeeping and behaviour at football. Cowes Sports are in discussions to FC Foundation would like to ensure that the the school in core subjects as well as in the become the charity’s grassroots associate charity’s resources could be used to create a school environment as a whole, after the club for the Island, and we hope the club positive impact for football participation and 8 week period we aim for those involved to may be a stepping stone for higher things for sporting activity on the island. become more responsible and engaged in young players. “The island of Guernsey has produced school and society. Those participating on “I know from experience that professional two England players. We’d love to identify the course will be given Chelsea kit to wear, football is an extremely tough industry England. Our most famous player, Roy and nurture similar talent on the Isle of and may be able to complete a Level One FA to succeed in, with only a tiny percentage Shiner, played 153 games for Sheffield Wight through providing development Training Course in future.” managing to make the grade. However, Wednesday, scoring 93 goals. In more recent opportunities on the Island. Chelsea FC Foundation have set up a this is not just about football. Hopefully, years, former Cowes High School student, Lee “The Chelsea Foundation is a registered football foundation development centre at the youngsters will be encouraged to make Bradbury, played for the likes of Portsmouth, charity, which has put £7.4 million into grass Cowes Enterprise College, 200 youngsters healthy lifestyle choices which will help them Manchester City and Bournemouth, making roots football and other community activities. from under-7s to under-16s have applied to in whatever careers they choose to follow. over 500 appearances in his professional It is the biggest football foundation in the UK be part of the trial process in October. Those “There are so many opportunities in sport career. and one of the biggest in the world.” players who are successful at the trials will now and that is something we are looking to Will this welcome initiative from Chelsea We then asked Steve what he had been receive quality training on a weekly basis, provide with Cowes Enterprise College. As football club Foundation result in the next up to during his first month in the role. He Chelsea Foundation training kit, and the well as becoming a footballer, youngsters IOW professional footballer being found said: “We have been trying to set up After opportunity to progress through the player will also have the chance to become, for There’s no reason why not! School Clubs on the Island. Identifying and pathway. Saturday mornings have been set example, coaches, sports physiotherapists recruiting qualified and talented coaches was aside for the younger age groups under-7s and psychologists.” the first step, and then setting up a training under-10s, with the under-11s to under-16s No Island footballer has yet played for Nicky completes Wales Ironman Triathlon Wight Triathlon member, Nicky Kenney, started the Wales Ironman Triathlon for the second time with the sole intention of completing this event. Last year, he crashed out on the bike, crossing a cattle grid and breaking his collarbone. However, with his injury fixed, he was ready to conquer one of the toughest ever Ironman races. Nick completed the Ironman in 12:55:19 and came 89th from 280 in the 45-49 category. Nick said: “There are Ironman races and then there is Ironman Wales. There is no comparison. “It took me two years to get my hands on this medal. I felt very emotional crossing the line. It was a ridiculously tough bike course, with 17% climbs and technically dangerous descents. It was physically and mentally draining and the Ryde triumph at South hills continued into the run. “I stuck to my race plan and have no serious incidents to report although I saw a few others crashing out. My cattle grid phobia remains. I took no chances and walked around them this Coast Championships year.” Ryde Rowing Club were triumphant in the on to it until the end. This crew competed most prestigious event of the day at the again later in the day, in the Open Men’s 63rd South Coast Rowing Championships Junior Senior Fours race, where they finished First Middle Distance Regatta at Dartmouth, Devon: the Men’s in third place. Outdoor Championship Senior Fours. Ryde Crews also competed in the Girls under The event was not without controversy, 16 Coxed quadruple sculls, where the crew of having to be re-rowed after several clashes Poppy Starkey, Freya Drage, Niamh Edwards Triathlon for Matthew at the start. In the re-row, the Ryde crew, and Emily Davies with Cameron Adams Matthew Parr-Burnam of Wight Tri took in his first ever Sixes consisting of Ollie Bottrell, Mike Ewing, coxing finished fourth in their heat, failing Middle Distance Triathlon, when he completed in the The Isle of Wight Cricket Matt Allsopp and Mark Chatwin and coxed to make the final. However, they raced again Vitruvian Middle Distance Triathlon, at Rutland Water, east Board Outdoor Sixes makes by Owen Barnaby rowed through the field later in the day in the Ladies Novice Fours midlands. Matthew posted fast split times of 36:01 for the a welcome return to the catching a crew from Exeter on the line to where they qualified for the final, finishing swim, followed by 2:46:39 and 1:43:00 for the bike and run, cricketing calendar on win the famous Bideford Bowl for the sixth in fourth place. finishing 16th from 41 positions in the 50-54 age group. Sunday, September 22. time. A boy’s crew, consisting of Harry Jones, Seb Steephill, Ventnor, will be Further success for the Wightlink McKeown, Paddy Kearney and Dan Sanderson the venue for the popular sponsored club came in the Junior 18 coxed with Graham Reeve coxing, competed in the Send in your sport news competition with 8 teams Fours, where the crew of Tom Starkey, Austin Boys under 16 Quadruple Sculls, where they competing for the John Smith, Ben Sanderson and Tye Cameron found the going tougher, also failing to make to: Hilson Memorial Trophy. with Dan Sanderson coxing, who had had the final. They competed again in the Men’s Matches commence from a disappointing season, finally came good, Novice Fours, where they finished fifth in the 10am. taking the lead soon after the start holding final. [email protected] 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 37 Island rider crowned 2019 British Expert Trials Champion After a tough nine round series, Island rider Chris Stay has been crowned the 2019 British Expert trials champion. Chris and his team made the 1,000 mile round trip to Scotland last weekend for the final two rounds with just a four point lead over one of the most experienced riders in the country, Dan Thorpe from Yorkshire. Ever since winning the first round in Surrey back in March, Chris has been determined to be the first Island rider to win the Championship, but after winning four of the first seven rounds, he only had a four point advantage because his main rival had never been off the podium, while Chris had a poor 6th place in Wales, and came 4th in the Lake District. It was all to play for and could have gone anyway, but after two of the three laps, Chris had a seven point lead. Thorpe then produced a brilliant ride on the final lap, losing just three marks, while Chris came home with nine on his score card to finish the day just one point ahead. This stretched the lead in the championship to seven points, which meant Ladies Scratch Champion Helen Whittaker and Handicap Champion Rose if Chris finished no lower than fourth on the Budd with Club Captain Dave May and Ladies Vice Captain Shelagh final day, he would become champion. Merrifeld The pressure was clearly starting to show on the first lap on Sunday, which finished with Thorpe on 12 and Chris just holding onto second place on 18 marks, closely followed Westridge Golf a host of top experts who were in danger of spoiling the day. But then Chris went into overdrive, producing one of his best rides of the championship, dropping just two more points on the extremely hard course, to take Club results the lead going into the final lap. 9-hole, Stableford: 1 Lesley Vale 18pts ocb, 2 Roger Sims 18, Another great lap from Chris saw him hold 3 Peter MacDonald 17. the lead until the last and toughest section of 18-hole, Stableford, Division 1: 1 Geoff Budd 35pts, 2 the day, a giant waterfall that only a handful Gordon Debenham 33 ocb, 3 Pete Holton 33; of riders, including Chris, had got through. He Division 2: 1 James Newman 33pts, 2 Peter Purcell 31, 3 Alan just failed to get up the final step, so five more Paddick 30. points were added to his score, and he only 36-hole medal Ladies Club Championship: Scratch: 1 Helen managed second place on the day. However, Whittaker 167, 2 Rose Budd 176, 3 Sandy Gallard-Jupp 182 he had done enough, as minutes later he Handicap: 1 Rose Budd 134, 2 Lai Sing Choi 135, 3 Helen was crowned the 2019 British Expert trials Whittaker 139. champion. 36-hole medal British Lung Foundation Trophy: Scratch: 1 Harrison Knights 137, 2 Joel Tarry 142 ocb, 3 Dave May 142 Handicap: 1 Ming Choi 117, 2 Luke Mennis 123, 3 Geoff Budd 124. Motorcycle Trials at Sweetwater Brook The Isle of Wight Motorcycle Ryan Munt, was only three more Club kick started the second half behind in second with Paul of the 2019 Winter Series Trials West in third. Joe Taylor had Championship at Sweetwater a day of mixed fortunes, and Brook. he was disappointed with his Elite rider, Josh Stephens, fourth place finish. Jos Wright completed the trial in style with was left out on his own in the a clean sheet. Two Experts went Twin Shock class, following the head to head, resulting in a two retirement of Nick Symes. Jos point win for James Stay. Rob put in a blinding performance on Howard was looking favourite the Ossa to finish with a miserly until he missed a flag incurring total of just seven. Geoff Taylor the maximum five point penalty. was the pick of the bunch in the The Intermediate class was won Clubman class, losing just four by Tom Richards, who cleaned marks, the second lowest score five of the eight sections to finish of the day. on a total of nineteen. Harvey Four Youth riders competed, Grieve was only five more behind headed up by Dan Locke and in second with Ben Brodie taking Josh Morris in the Youth a solid third place following a five Experts. Both these riders have month break. moved up from the Novice Rory Stephens was the clear class. Dan managed to win, winner in the Over Fifties, from despite his impromptu early Simon Watmough in second. The bath in the brook. Josh had British Lung Foundation Handicap Champion Ming Choi and Scratch Clubman class was dominated to settle for second on this Champion Harrison Knights with Club Captain Dave May by Scott Milton (despite being occasion. Alfie Haydon (Youth dumped over the bars into the Intermediate) put in his now brook on section two) with usual top performance to take an eight point lead over Colin his ten Championship points. Brodie. Colin finished on forty Bertie Grieve continues to gain Send in your sport news with Phil Chase only four more in confidence in the Youth behind in third. Beginners, again securing The well contested Novice class maximum Championship to: was taken by Paul Kent, who points. completed the trial for a loss of [email protected] just twenty-three. New member; 38 Sport www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Good performance for Wight Motorsport

The Wight Motorsport team, consisting of three rally cars, drivers, navigators and service crew, made the trip to Essex to compete in the Wethersfield Rally stages. The crews of Dean Long with navigator Jon Barrett in their Subaru Impreza, and Wayne Hole with navigator Chris Wilson in their mk1 Escort, were seeded 14th and 25th respectively. Joining them were driver John Cooper with navigator Kevin Richardson in their mk2 Escort, who were seeded in a starting position of 57. This single venue consisted of six stages using the concrete taxiways and access roads of a disused airfield, totalling over 63 stage miles. Tyres and brakes did not last long, and cars as well as occupants were pushed to their limits. The service crew of Brian Crutchlow, Tony Long and Paul Denham spent most of their day changing wheels and tyres, Vectis Under-14s put as within a few stages new tyres were down to the cords thanks to the abrasive nature of the track. This became even more of a challenge as the Heathens to the sword wheels were often too hot to handle due to Vectis Under 14s -49 heat soak from the brakes. They also had to Fareham Heathens - 5 fix a minor brake fluid leak and adjust the clutch on Wayne’s mk1 Escort. John’s mk2 Vectis Under-14's began their rugby season in fine style with Escort limped back to the pits with a loose an emphatic win against Fareham Heathens. front cross beam after stage 2, and it was all Played with a high tempo in the sunshine, Vectis started hands on deck to get the car ready for the off strongly and raced into an early lead with Jamie Priddle next stage. crossing the whitewash after solid forward pressure. The John and Kevin in the mk2 Escort finished lead was quickly stretched as Archy Williams crossed twice in 35th overall and 10th in class, making up quick succession, and Hugh Owen added the extras. 22 places. Wayne and Chris in their mk1 It wasn't long before Archy completed his hat trick, but Escort finished 12th overall and 5th in class, Fareham came back strongly to go over themselves and then making up 13 places. It was an amazing apply some further pressure which Vectis did well to contain. finish for Dean and Jon, as they not only Edward White scored after slick handling by backs and made up nine places during the event but forwards, and they went into half-time 29-5 up. finished 5th overall and first in their class, Strong words were uttered to the visitors at half time, beating all other all wheel drive rally cars on and they came out strongly and tested the Vectis defence. the day. Thomas Cole then crashed over after more good work from Wight Motorsport will compete in their the impressive forwards, and then Ben Martin showed his next rally at Bovington in November. strength and footwork to go over in the corner. Play of the day followed when Thomas Cole unselfishly passed to Reuban Cobb to enable another try in the corner before Archy Williams rounded off the scoring to make the final score 49-5 to Vectis in front of a sizeable crowd. Bembridge bowlers end season Vectis Under-14s will now face a stern test when they travel to Portsmouth in a fortnight. with mixed bag of results Bembridge Ladies A played two games and, despite a late flourish, lost 15 - 20. through at the end to win 20 - 17. to end their season in a creditable 5th Anne Bernard with Judy Silvester, Jules Final result: Bembridge 2 points place in Division 1. In the first game, Roberson and Peggy Evans were behind Ventnor 4 points away at Shanklin B, a strong all round from the start before eventually losing The Men’s E team played their performance secured maximum points. 11 - 22. last game away at Newport D. Peter Gay Allen with Daphne Lacey, Judy Final result: Bembridge 0 points Swinfield with Paul Martin and Bill Silvester and Ruth Emms started well Plessey 6 points Silvester played as a triple and went and remained in control to win 18 - 10. Bembridge Ladies B team went into down 9 - 20. Gordon Holmes with Colin In a fluctuating game, Anne Bernard their last game in the knowledge Greer, Fred Marsh and Kev Levonian with Judy Eynon, Jules Roberson and that they were no longer able to win battled throughout but lost 17 - 24. Peggy Evans began with a bang but promotion. Their opponents, Ventnor Peter Pickworth with Ian Vallender, were pegged back before running out B, could no longer be caught, and Gerald Rees and Steve Eynon benefited winners 18 - 16. Bembridge would have to settle for from a flying start and held on to win Final result: Shanklin 0 points third place in Division 2. Phyl Liddiard comfortably 25 - 13. Bembridge 6 points with Pam Browning, Wendy Thipthorp Final result: Newport 8 points In their second game, Bembridge and Jules Roberson struggled from the Bembridge 2 points Ladies A lost at home to champions outset and went down 13 - 31. Carole Bembridge have one final game to play elect, Plessey A. Gay Allen with Daphne Whittington with Sandra Scovell, on Saturday, when the Men’s A team Lacey, Wendy Thipthorp and Ruth Loraine Whelan and Barbara Terry were travel to runaway League Champions, Emms stayed in touch until half way involved in a far tighter game and came Shanklin A. Simon wins Silver Islander, Simon Jones, gained a silver medal at the South of England Fell Running Championships, on the 25th Isle of Wight Indoor Bowls Club Open Day anniversary of this event on the Isle of Wight, in which runners complete three races over two days. The Isle of Wight Indoor Bowls and helpful coaches. Race one on Saturday morning was the St. Boniface Fell: Club, situated behind Staddlestones The club runs day leagues from 3.8km and 235m ascent, in which Simon was first MV60 in a Garage in Brading Road, Ryde, is Monday to Friday and evening time of 22’ 20.” holding an open day on Sunday, leagues on Monday, Tuesday and The second race on Saturday afternoon was the Ventnor September 29, from 10.30am Thursday. Club competitions Horseshoe, over 12km with 443m of ascent, in which Simon to 3pm. This will provide the are available to be entered by all was second MV 60 in a time of 69’ 51.” opportunity for all bowlers to attend members. Friendly match fixtures Sunday posed the greatest challenge: the Wroxall Round, together, with anyone of all ages will be played against various 21km and 487m ascent. This was a tough race run in very warm interested in taking up the game, to mainland clubs, both home and conditions with Simon coming 5th in MV60, but retaining try it out with the help of friendly away. second place and a silver medal in MV60 overall. 20th September 2019 iwobserver @iwobserver Sport 39 Wizards work their magic in Dorset Weymouth Damers Blinds Wildcats vs forward young Chad once again as he out- Isle of Wight Wightlink Wizards raced his unbeaten opponent, Jacob Clouting, (Midland & Southern Development League) to the chequered flag with Jamie Sealey taking 3rd place, securing a fine 20-16 win for The final meeting for the Wightlink the Wizards. Wizards saw them leave their opponents, Jubilant team manager, Kevin Shepherd, the Weymouth Damers Blinds Wildcats, said: “This meeting showed how the team spellbound with a great all round team has matured and gelled over the season with performance at their adopted home track at all of them riding sensibly and reacting to a Premiership club Poole Pirates. very tight meeting. At no point was there any After getting a late call up to guest at number panic in the camp, and they all plodded away 1 for the Kings Lynn Stars in their Premiership until Chad made the vital breakthrough. match, Chad Wirtzfeld ran a 2nd place behind Credit to Weymouth, they set their team line Weymouth's Jacob Clouting in heat 1, who up so they had a strong rider in every heat, like Chad has had plenty of track time this which made it tough going for us but on the Snowgoose wins Barts Bash season in the National Development League night. We fully deserved the win and now sit with the Kent Kings, with Morgan Williams level on points with Exeter in 2nd place. The Redwings were programmed for one Under Tyne. However, it was not long before taking third place for a 3-3 shared heat. Scorers: race and the One-Designs for two, in choppy the lead was taken up by Orca, a Flying Two more even heats followed before Chad Weymouth (16) : Jacob Ciouting 8/3, James conditions on Saturday afternoon.. Fifteen. Wind holes started appearing on leg broke the deadlock in heat 4, beating the Laker 8/3, Cesca Kirtley-Paine 0/3, Sam The Redwings had a simple windward- 4 and Tara, crewed by the Toogoods, initially previously unbeaten Laker, and with Morgan Peters 0/3. leeward course. Tara, Red Gauntlet II and established a healthy lead over the Nainby- Williams running an excellent third place, Snowgoose were all OCS, but it did not take Luxmoores in Snowgoose, but lost it all when the Wizards led 13-11 with two heats to go. Wizards (20) : Chad Wirtzfeld 8/3, Chris them very long to re-start and join the other they got stuck in a windless hole. The final With the Wizards filling the minor scoring Watts 6/3, Morgan Williams 3+2/3, Jamie three boats as they headed inshore to try leg back to the line could have gone either positions in heat 5, the meeting result hinged Sealey 3+2/3 to find the easterly going tidal stream. Joe way but, with yards to go, Snowgoose got her on the 6th and final heat of the night. Step Robertson in Red Gauntlet II was first round bow in front and crossed the line just over 10 Tara, closely followed by Robin Ebsworth, seconds ahead. sailing single handed in Quintessence, and Tara joined in with three other Redwings for Mike Toogood in Tara. On the run to the a second race that saw Joe Robertson in Red leeward mark, Jonathan Nainby-Luxmoore Gauntlet II establish an unbeatable lead on Islander to ofciate at British took the inner track, which put them ahead the first windward leg. With a slight increase of Red Gauntlet II for the rest of the race. in the wind strength, the final two legs saw The four One-Designs had a shorter one Tara moving up into second place ahead of Speedway Grand Prix round race. Although their first mark was not Jim Conybeare-Cross and Bella Janson in far away, Charles Abel Smith, sailing single- Gannet. handed in No 11, rounded the windward mark first and subsequently crossed the finish line well ahead of Jos Coad in No 8. In the second race, Charles in No 11 established a healthy lead on the first leg and held onto it to the finish. Sarah Marshall, sailing single-handed in No 7, was second. The first race on Sunday was the annual Barts Bash, in which two Redwings and about a dozen dinghies competed. The two Redwings,Tara and Snowgoose. were the first to pick up a 180º wind shift and were the first to reach

Newport based Chris Cass, the starting reports, leading to the invitation to go to marshal at the Wightlink Warriors Cardiff. Smallbrook track in Ryde, has been selected Speedway Control Bureau member, Tony Defeat but promising to take charge of the British Speedway Grand Steele, said: “The Start Marshal position Prix at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff is of significant importance to the smooth on Saturday, September 21. The Grand Prix running of the Grand Prix, and whilst we tend will be contested in front of a world-wide to rotate the position, his appointment is not performance by Ventnor television audience and a fanatical and simply because it is his turn. It is because he passionate crowd, expected to exceed 40,000 is highly regarded as one of the best.” Romsey 37 great hands from Lines and Blake, Wheeler on the night, in a meeting that may well see When asked how he planned to prepare Ventnor 10 gave George Finan an inch of space to get the new 2019 World Champion crowned. for the cauldron of the Principality Stadium, outside his opposite winger and then inside Chris described how he has risen to become Chris, who is also a robust centre back Without several first team regulars, Ventnor the fullback for a brilliant try on debut. a Grand Prix official, just six years after footballer and qualified soccer referee, said put on a promising performance in a loss to Unfortunately, at this point, Ventnor lost becoming involved in speedway. he was planning additional training on the Romsey in their first Hampshire Division One Magnurson through injury and, despite Chris said: “I first got involved with pool table at his local. game of the year. excellent defence by Marsh, Hill, Blake and speedway back in 2012 when the former Chris commented: “If I can cope with the The final score was hardly a reflection of Morton, Romsey scored five unanswered tries promotion on the Island used me as a ribbing and banter of my ‘mates’ down the their quality in many aspects of their game. either side of half time, most of which were meeter and greeter, entertaining sponsors at pub, then four speedway riders in a race will Through Price, Jones and Pratt in the front due to avoidable errors and poor decision meetings. Then, one evening, the assistant be no problem!” row, Ventnor were totally dominant at scrum making. However, Ventnor never flagged and starting marshal had to stand down, and I Warrior’s co-promoter, Barry Bishop, said: time, whilst Marsh and Hill gave them an gathered themselves for a powerful finish, was asked to help the Island’s main start “What a fantastic honour for Chris and for edge at the line out. Despite this, after early which led to Chris Hill dotting down after a marshal, Les Hughes, who we affectionately our club. He’s a great choice for the job, and pressure from Ventnor, Romsey took the lead series of blistering scrums. called ‘Five Laps Les’ but who sadly passed there is no doubt that he has the authority with a converted try. The A J Wells Man of the Match: away last year. and presence to make a real success of the Ventnor came straight back good through Tristan Price “When speedway was reintroduced in 2016, role. It certainly won’t be easy in the raucous work from Fox and drives by Savill, Noyes The Red Funnel Moment of the Match: and Les was unable to continue his start noise that surrounds the stadium on Grand and Griggs, which led to a penalty deep in Dean Magnurson line duties because of knee problems, Barry Prix nights. However, he will get plenty of Romsey's half. Hill took a quick tap and, after (Bishop) and Martin (Widman) asked if I help from the organisers, and the Warrior would step up, and it’s gone well since then”. Army will be out in force to support him on Want your sport published or documented? Match day referees have consistently his big night.” awarded Chris high marks on their match Call 01983 214264 today 40 News www.iwobserver.co.uk 20th September 2019 Observer This weeks highlights... Football Trials Looking for the next Islander crowned Mason Mount... trials champion... SportBy Peter White 36 35 Hat trick of wins for Island Port, Vics and Cowes all win fxtures to go through to FA Vase frst round proper Port win in Wiltshire FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round: took it, but the linesman flagged to say it Devizes 1 wasn’t in the corner spot. It was taken again Newport (IW) 3 and Scott Sampson got on the end of it to head home in the 70th minute, and give Port came back from behind with a strong Port a comfortable 3-1 advantage. Scott was second half performance at Devizes to go then shown straight red card for a clumsy through into the 1st Round proper of the FA challenge, that even Devizes felt should have Vase. been no more than a yellow. Port then held The game began badly for Port, when on with ten men to go through to the next a sloppy pass in defence gave the ball to round on October 12th, where they have been Devizes striker, Sean McKeon, who shot past given a home tie against Western League Gary Streeter to put Devizes ahead in the Bridgwater Town. 17th minute. The turning point of the match After the match, Port manager, Andy came in injury time of the first half when the Sampson, declared the performance to have referee awarded a penalty to Devizes, which been “very pleasing”, although he was was saved by veteran keeper, Gary Streeter. disappointed with the soft goal his side has At half time, Port came out with a conceded and the red card given to Scott determination to overcome the one goal Sampson. He thought the first round proper deficit. Joe Craig had been a thorn in the tie against Bridgwater Town would be a side of Devizes all game and quickly scored “tough game”, but was pleased to have been two breakaway goals. First, he shot past the given home advantage. keeper in the 56th minute, and then lobbed Newport face Andover Town at Beatrice him in the 70th, to put the Port in the driving Avenue on Saturday. Children will be given seat. free admittance in celebration of Isle of A bizarre situation from a corner led to a Wight Day. third goal for Port from a corner. Newport Yachtsmen knock lucky Vics bring high fying seven past Verwood FA Vase 2nd Qualifying Round: in the 64th minute, which was converted by Fareham down to earth Euan Cranwell, to give Cowes the lead for the Cowes Sports 7 FA Vase 2nd Qualifying round: Vics have been drawn away in the first round Verwood Town 3 first time in the game. East Cowes Vics 3 proper of the FA Vase to Warminster Town, The visitors then pulled one back in the 66th Fareham Town 2 in Wiltshire, who sit mid-table in Division 1 minute, to level the scores once again at 3-3. In a highly entertaining and sometimes of the Western League. This will be the first controversial game, the Yachtsmen scored However, Cowes were now on fire. McEnery Wessex League One Vics, winless in league time the East Cowes club has reached this seven goals at Westwood Park for the first scored again from the edge of the area in the six games, defeat Fareham Town, so far stage of the competition since 1988. time in five years to advance to the first 68th minute to restore Cowes’ lead to 4-3. unbeaten in the Wessex Premier. Steve said of the fixture: "If we have round proper of the FA Vase. Then substitute Jimmy Wykes made the Vics pulled off a ‘giant killing’ victory at the players available and we can put in a Verwood drew first blood, with Ben Kelly score 5-3 by sending a looping header over Beatrice Avenue, beating their Wessex performance like we did on Saturday, I feel heading into the goal after 16 minutes. Jez the Verwood keeper in the 72nd minute. Premier rivals by the odd goal of five. The we can beat Warminster," Conway then equalised for the home side in Man-of-the-match McEnery completed his East Cowes side went into half-time with a Second-from-bottom Vics travel to North the 42nd minute, first heading against the hat trick two minutes from time to make it two goal advantage, the goals being scored Hampshire on Saturday to play Andover New crossbar, then heading in the rebound. 6-3, before Jimmy Wykes side-footed the by Jimmi Burton and livewire centre forward, Street, with Steve confident that his team’s Just before half-time came a moment of keeper in injury time to complete a 7-3 rout Elias Ahmed. However, Lewis Stockford and league form will improve. However, he warns controversy, when the ball hit Callum Chase of the side from Dorset. Luke Slade pulled two goals back for the that he needs a consistent turn out from his on the side of his body in the penalty area, After the game, Cowes manager, Steve visitors in the second half, before Olly West players to get the required results. The Cowes players, bench and crowd, as well Rutter, said: “We caused ourselves problems delivered the coup de grace as the linesman, all appeared convinced that in the first half because we didn’t believe in late on for the East Cowes the ball had not touched the defender’s arm, our ability. Jimmy Wykes turned the game side, to put them into the first yet a penalty was still awarded by the referee. around when he came on at half time. I told round proper of the FA Vase Vociferous protests led two Cowes players, him to prove to me that he deserved a place for the first time in many Callum Chase and Ji Nash being sin binned, in the side.” seasons. and Cowes manager, Steve Rutter, being Cowes now travel to Hellenic League After the game, Vics manager, yellow carded. The penalty was converted by Longlevens in Gloucestershire in the first Steve Brougham said: “It Lee Vint, giving the away side a 1-2 advantage round proper of the FA Vase, a match which was the best performance going into half time. Rutter believes “will be a great opportunity I’ve seen as Vics manager. The Yachtsmen began the second half with for us to pit our wits against a team in a It proves we can play a great just nine men. However, Michael McEnery different league.” game when everyone is up pulled a goal back for the home side in the This Saturday, Cowes face Stoneham away for it. Eli caused Fareham 61st minute to level the score. It was now in the Wessex Premier. Manager, Steve problems up front with his Verwood’s turn to be on the receiving end of Rutter, said of the fixture: “Stoneham have incredible work rate, but a harsh penalty decision, when one of their a great set up and are a very good team who all in all it was a great team players was struck by a ball in the penalty will do well this year. It’s not going to be an performance.” area, and a penalty was awarded to Cowes easy game.”