On board were nine passengers and the conductor, Fred Bull, aged just 19. The bus, just in from East Cowes, had made its first stop at Cross Street where a lady and two little girls had the good luck to get off. Charlie then set off down Union Street with the remaining passengers, among them Jack Nunn, 45, a ship’s rigger returning to Essex after several days working at East Cowes. Your Party Wish Is My Command 14 30 Entertainer & Party Magician 23 Owen Reid is a member of the International Ventriloquist Society. While also being a member of Equity TV appearances, clients include many celebrities and royalty. As an international entertainer, performances include Downing Street and as a professional balloon artist clients include Design 2000 for Disney Hertz promotions and Jim Henson productions (Muppets). ‘Time Out’ called him “the man of many talents” Owen Reid is CRB checked and fully insured. Children’s Parties & Adult Birthday Parties Wedding Receptions Anniversaries l Bar Mitzvah Christenings l Charity Events Fun Days l School Parties & Mini Discos Care Home Functions Ventriloquist T: 01983 523179 T: 0207 692 5664 M:07779 238183 E: [email protected] W: foxythefunkygenie.com h i u t t t a e Y t Contents Pier Street in 1913. On the right, the King Tudor front and on the left, the side of the 4 West Wight News 6 Top of the Class 8 - 11 Cowes News 12 Sports News Taking a closer look at the Island's golf team 14 The John Hannam Interview John talks to Megan Turner 18 - 19 Alan Stroud’s Island Story The Pier Hotel and young Fred Bull 22 Eating & Drinking 23 Feature UK Coffee Week 24 - 27 Health & Wellbeing 28 - 29 Legal & Financial 30 - 33 Homes & Gardens 35 Spot the Difference competition! Follow us on twitter.com/iwbeaconmag facebook.com/IWBeacon ers and d just Cowes, ss Street ls had lie then h the g them returning orking at Charlie told the subsequent inquest how he had driven down Union Street in third gear, “Everything went well until I reached the Post Office, when the bus shot ahead all at once. I tried the foot brake but there was nothing there and I pulled the handbrake as hard as I could and I shut off the engine.” A witness at the inquest, Reg Yeldon, told the court, “I was outside the Post Office. My attention was first caught by the rolling of the body of the bus going from side to side, then I heard a loud noise which I think was the brakes being applied, or reversing the gears, and the bus then seemed to gather speed. It was travelling at about 30 miles an hour, the fastest I’d ever seen a bus go down the street.” Edward Stock, another witness, watched in horror as the bus hurtled past him, “The driver was going fast and I wondered if it was going to make the corner at the bottom at that pace.” By now lunchtime shoppers were rooted to the spot, looking on in horror as the bus careered helplessly down the road and it was obvious to all that the bus and its occupants were in serious trouble. Winifred Teesdale told the court, “As it got near the bottom of Union Street I happened to look at the conductor who was on the bottom step. The bus got quicker and when it passed me it was over on its two nearside wheels.” 200 12 1 Charlie took the corner at nearly 30 miles an hour, “I tried the best I could to swing round in to Pier Street. I got part of the way round but what happened then I don’t know. I just trusted to Providence to get round.” Providence wasn’t enough. Charlie had no chance and shocked onlookers saw the bus take the corner practically on two wheels and then topple over onto its left-hand side, felling a lamppost in the process. Jack Nunn suffered serious head injuries and was killed instantly, his body ending up lying on the ground in between the lamppost and the bus. Charlie was pulled from the wreckage through the broken windows, frightened and in a serious state of shock but somehow with only superficial injuries, “All I know is that I fell under the bus… athletes & staff sporting events prestigious week 24 18 The hotel demolition in October 1931; a sketch by Tom Smitch of the County Press. he right, the King Lud with its mock ft, the side of the Royal Pier Hotel. Note from the Editor Welcome to the May edition of the Beacon magazine. This month we are celebrating National Coffee Week and you can too - support your local coffee houses and cafes, with some great special offers not to be missed. Turn to our National Coffee Week feature in our Eating and Drinking section for all the details. We are lending our support to all of our Island’s athletes who will be attending the NatWest Island Games in June on Jersey. You can read more in our Sports News about the Island’s golf team who are hoping to return home with gold! We have all the local news for your area and if you have a story, photo or would like to get in touch about an issue in your area, please email me: [email protected] Have a great month! Sarah “The Beacon, all that’s good about the Island” IW Beacon Media Centre, 8-10 Dodnor Park Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5XE. Tel: 01983 522123 Wightlink are proud to support and sponsor the cream of the Isle of Wight’s athletes in preparation for the 16th International NatWest Island Games in Jersey on June 27th. This is just part of Wightlink’s ongoing commitment to over 50 local organisations to support all aspects of Island life. We wish all the athletes every success in this year’s Island Games. EDITOR Sarah Griffin; [email protected] SALES CONSULTANTS Lou Harris; [email protected] Lou Scott-Attrill and Kelly Knox Find out more at wightlink.co.uk/athletes DESIGNERS Rachel Dangerfield, Tracey Watt ACCOUNTS Cherrill Cuthbert 37380 April Beacon Advert 93x270 AW.indd 1 16/04/2015 09:57 but I w He w not so a fami promi fellow, road u much on him an am there t and pu Ryde H compl lapsed 15 min condu Back lay on ripped its bro sight. the tow The Wheel brakin They a done a Counc the ch now st for £13 Octob and Pi into hi WEST WIGHT news Yarmouth Old Gaffers First World War battlefields – closer than you might think… Remains from the Great War lie, largely hidden and unknown, just off our south coast shores. Many are the final resting place of those who lost their lives when the vessels sank. Fascinating and moving stories of bravery and sacrifice surrounding these sites are being revealed by the Maritime Archaeology Trust through their Heritage Lottery funded 'Forgotten Wrecks of the First World War' project. At the end of this month, Yarmouth town and harbour will embrace yet another fun filled weekend of entertainment and interesting things to see and do for the whole family. The harbour will be filled with the colourful spectacle of the visiting gaff rigged vessels, some of which will race in The Solent on Saturday. There is also a Sunday morning race from the Royal Solent Yacht Club with the Queen's Jubilee Race. Over the weekend, there will also be street entertainment, live music, classic vehicle displays and lifeboat demonstrations. There is also a craft fair and continental market in and around Yarmouth town; St James’ Church will host the colourful Flower Festival, whilst the McGaffers' Beer Tent holds one of the Isle of Wight's largest real ale festivals across the weekend. The Old Gaffers Festival 2015 will take place from Friday 29th - Sunday 31st May. For further information see the Old Gaffers’ website www.yarmoutholdgaffersfestival.co.uk or telephone (01983) 761704. Photo of the month Thanks to Joan Street for this beautiful photo of a peacock butterfly on a hyacinth, taken in her garden. We love to see your photos! Send them to [email protected] 4 Until October 2015, you can see some recovered artefacts and find out about the Forgotten Wrecks in a temporary exhibition at Sunken Secrets, Fort Victoria. The fouryear project aims to bring together personal and family information, artefact records, historic and archaeological research, and tell the stories behind the sites, through exhibitions like the one at Sunken Secrets and via the project website, educational materials and public events. The Maritime Archaeology Trust are keen to hear from anybody with links to any of the south coast’s First World War wrecks. One example is the SS South Western which was torpedoed south of the Isle of Wight by UB- 59 in March 1918. Only 6 people survived the sinking. The ship remains on the seabed were only recently positively identified and the Forgotten Wrecks team are keen to hear from anyone with links to the ship which was sailing from Southampton to Saint-Malo, France. If you have any information about the South Western or other vessels lost off the south coast during the First World War, you are invited to contact the team at: [email protected] forgottenwrecks.org Telephone 754666 www.westwightaudio.co.uk Telephone Sockets Audio Systems Pat Testing ...and more Sound services that you need West Wight Cottages Holiday Let Services New to holiday letting? No time? Let us help you... Marketing & bookings Low commission rates Friendly service Tel: 07795 078049 www.westwightcottages.co.uk Wightime Clock Repairs Andrew S. Cooke - Horologist Tel: (01983) 752418 Mob: 07734 822348 Email: [email protected] www.wightime.com F.R Frise Jewellers, Kimberley House, High Street, FRESHWATER, Isle of Wight, PO40 9JX. OUT OF TIME Volume 2 BY ALAN STROUD Over 130 colour photographs of Newport, Cowes and the Island in the 60s, 70s and 80s From town centres to backstreets to countryside. 4 Quay Street, Yarmouth PO41 0PB Tel: 760260 Your local independent pharmacy offers a personal and caring service. Open full long hours 7 days a week Monday to Saturday 8.30am - 6.00pm and Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm Only £19.95 D.Batchelor Builders Tel: 01983 756453 / 756146 Carpentry l Joinery l Bricklaying l Plastering l Plumbing l Decoration l Leadwork l Central Heating l Boilers l Kitchens Supplied And Fitted l Bathrooms Supplied And Fitted Prompt Service l Highly Skilled Tradesman (Free Estimates) l Unit 1a, Golden Hill Park, Freshwater PO40 9UJ Email: [email protected] HOME IMPROVEMENT PLUMBING & ELECTRICAL BATHROOMS : SHOWERS : KITCHENS TOILETS : TAPS : SINKS : ELECTRIC SHOWERS JOINERY : TILING : PAINTING ALL TYPES OF PROPERTY REPAIRS Steve Hadley 25Yrs Exp Local & Reliable Tel 754293 / 077687 20034 All aspects of vehicle repair and servicing from friendly and trustworthy staff using the latest diagnostic and servicing tools. We can get you back on the road in the shortest time possible Your local window cleaner Guttering l Fascias l Conservatories l Vehicles Internal & External l Commercial & Domestic MOTS PRE MOTS SERVICING ENGINE REPAIRS BRAKE OVERHAULS ENGINE DIAGNOSTICS CLUTCH REPLACEMENT TIMING BELT REPLACEMENT FREE PICK UP AND DELIVERY FREE COURTESY CARS AVAILABLE CALL FOR FREE ADVICE AND ESTIMATES ON ALL YOUR VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS 01983 753074 www.tennysongarage.co.uk 5 TOP of the class Ebony Lane My Studio School Journey By Ebony Lane At first, I was unsure about being at the Studio School as the thought of being placed in a new environment with new people frightened me. However, the school has given me a fresh start and a second chance to aim higher. That I cannot regret, but only be grateful for. Also, looking back at where I was, I have gained a considerable amount of confidence along the way from this school. I feel as if this opportunity will teach me new things, not only about business and work life but about my career pathways, various skills and the way I evolve as a person. I have already made memories that I will be able to keep for a long time, such as The Boat Show in Southampton, coasteering, the welcoming atmosphere of both students and teachers and the enjoyable activities that we learn from, yet enjoy also. , We would love to hear from schools colleges and academies across the Island with your news and events. Please email [email protected] My journey so far has been immensely active, the way one minute we are in classroom learning about algebra and the next we are jumping off cliffs! You learn from outside activities as well as writing in a book. I think that is very important to remember . Despite this, this time last year I couldn't imagine doing such daring activities but I did it and I don't regret a second of it as I know it will be a clear memory for me to keep for the future. Personally, I recommend the Studio School to young pioneers because it’s a modern scheme with a family feel. It is giving me the chance to experience what I missed when I was at my lowest last year and couldn't even bring myself to go outside. However, the atmosphere is somewhat tranquil at The Studio School compared to the off putting rush in the corridors at my old school. I hated the pressure, but thankfully it has all been released thanks to this fresh opportunity. It just shows you that if you are ready for anything, that anything will be ready for you; you just have to grasp it with both hands. I needed this new chapter in my life and I'm glad I turned the page as I can't wait for the rest of my story to unfold. So far, I’m not being let down. I can’t wait for what the future has to offer. STAG LANE MOTORS Stag Lane, Newpor t YOUR ONE STOP CRAFT STORE For all your crafting needs! Workshops, demonstrations, held weekly! New stock arriving weekly, most crafts catered for! (If we can’t do it, we won’t sell it) 64 Union Street, Ryde. Call (01983) 613562 6 522443 / 525783 Special Offer MOT £38 (Class 4 cars & motorhomes only) SERVICING & REPAIRS TO ALL VEHICLES (inc. HGV) 24 hr Breakdown & Recovery www.staglane-motors.co.uk 12 months - 16,000 drivers - Wight Karting off to roaring start! Wight Karting offers the Isle of Wight’s only all-weather outdoor 500 metre floodlit track for all ages from 8 to 88. Open seven days a week, all year round (for advanced bookings of 20 plus). Facilities now include privately bookable party venue, conference facilities and stag/hen packages. The completely new state-of-the-art circuit and clubhouse includes the ‘La Babalu’ Diner offering sandwiches and burgers made to order. Adults race in the fleet of Formula One style Sodi 270cc, four stroke karts with top speeds exceeding 45mph! Trust us, it will bring out the competitive spirit in you! Cadet karts have 160cc engines, seat belts and head rests for maximum safety and with restricted speeds. All karts operate brake light systems. The track also operates the ‘De Haart System’ that will slow or stop karts on the track, if necessary, as a safety precaution. Visit Wight Karting for your chance to get to the top of the all-time score board and leave a champion! *(All you need to do is book and pay at least 24 hours in advance. The offer is subject to availability.) “My experience of the day was excellent and so memorable. The karts are so exhilarating; after just one lap the adrenaline kicked in and I learnt to push as hard as I could. The briefings were clear and concise and the 'on track' supervision is of a very high standard. The technology is the latest from the karts through to timing systems and result presentation. All in all a great day out!” Wight Karting’s Arrive and Drive: •Drivers first become members of Wight Karting •First-time drivers are very welcome •Drivers allocated age appropriate karts •Full safety briefing given •Wet and dry race suits, helmets and gloves provided •No sandals or flip flops are allowed •All drivers receive lap-times printout to take home •Track ‘sessions’ include suiting up, driver safety briefing and 10 mins track time (allow 30 mins per session booked) •All drivers are advised to arrive 30 minutes before booked sessions Facilities at Wight Karting: •Free parking on-site •The BEST quality in safety helmets and race suits provided •Changing rooms •Family Zone games room •Conference facilities for corporate presentations •Hot food and drinks available at ‘La Babula’ Diner •Lounge area with racing-themed furniture •Multiple go-karts to suit all ages •Track time race sheets to take home •Electronic timing systems with accuracy of up to 1000th of a second! •Mid-range karts are available if you have younger children to ensure the greatest levels of family fun without taking out the excitement of a competitive race! All summer offer: Book at least 24 hours in advance and kart for off peak prices at anytime* *Subject to availability Wight Karting is celebrating its first year of business and thanking locals for their support, by offering great deals. You are invited to join them during the summer season with all karting at off peak prices, all summer!* 7 COWES news News from Paul Fuller, Councillor for Cowes West and Gurnard •Baring Road is due to be resurfaced the week commencing Monday 11th May. A planning application has been received to develop 11 dwellings on the site of the Glen in Worsley Road. A planning application is also pending for 11 dwellings at land adjacent to Dottens Farm. Once this application is received, I will letterdrop to householders nearby. •Work to restore the Cowes Hammerhead Crane has been postponed due to nesting ravens. •My grateful thanks go to Richard from Safesite for going above and beyond the call of duty for securing the Frank James Hospital. News from Councillor Lora Peacey-Wilcox, Councillor for Cowes Medina POST OFFICE UPDATE: It has been announced that the shop the post office were thinking of using, is not suitable. They are looking for premises, but from May to August 5th will only be in a portacabin in the car park! VICTORIA ROAD/MILL HILL ROAD: I have now received the statistics over the accidents in the area. Twelve accidents in less than eight years - I will continue to push to have some kind of traffic order/ calming in the area. MENTAL HEALTH STRATEGY: I attended a large gathering at Lakeside to consider the most productive way of using the limited mental health •The IW Council and IW NHS were successful in their bid for Vanguard Grant funding. This money (upto £10million) will be used for Community Wellbeing projects. Report. Please let me know if you have not received yours. •Consultation on the future of Wightcare is due to take place this month. Providers, including Age UKwill assist supporting residents who use the service. Please contact me at any time if you require my support, or visit one of my monthly surgeries! •At the Full Council meeting I supported proposals which reduce councillors’ allowances by 2.6%. •The IW Council rejected the application to declare Northwood Park a village green. At the hearing it was made clear by trustees there was no intention to develop within the park. •I have been delivering my Annual resources we have on the Island. Some good ideas emerged and it appeared almost everyone was ‘singing from the same hymn sheet’ with regard to changes. MEDINA YARD: I have had communication from a number of residents about their concerns. I have raised these with JTP, the people dealing with the site. I was pleased they listened and took action with regard to the potential problems including at Bridge Road where you may not be able to turn right; about no bus service, which they then began to negotiate and about coach parking/ drop off areas. There is still contention over the site. MEDAL CEREMONY: I was delighted to attend Ryde Fire Station and award Cowes man Simon Clarke with his long service and good conduct award. Thanks for all you do. Paul Fuller JP, CC Email: [email protected] As a rule of thumb surgeries are held: 1st Tuesday, 4:30-5pm Cowes Library; 5:30-6pm Sports Bar, IW Community Club, Cowes; 2nd Thursday, 6-6:30pm, Woodvale, Gurnard;3rd or 4th Wednesday, 1-1:30pm Little Gloster, Gurnard; 3-3:30pm Cowes Enterprise College, Cowes; Last Thursday, 5:306pm, Portland, Gurnard. VIKOMA: I know I get passionate about our local firms, but was at an event to hear what a success this Island company is who are now delivering and supporting business across the world. DOG FOULING: It comes up regularly! This time a bad spate in St. Mary’s Road. If you can keep a record of times and dates, I will do my best to get some enforcement down there. IYWAC: It was dreadful to hear the news about the organisation having to close. Still no news on the site. ABANDONED CARS: No sooner I have had one dealt with another comes up! This time in Pelham Road. I am pleased to say that is the 3rd abandoned car now removed, (very quickly) by Island Roads. Yellow Welly Fun Day - Bank Holiday May 4th Cowes RNLI will be open to the public for guided tours from 10am to 4pm with attractions including instruction on knot-tying. Light refreshments will be available, including homemade cakes, and visitors can try their luck at a Yellow Jar stall. Among games being staged will be ‘Upcycle a Welly’ where you are invited to decorate the RNLI’s iconic welly. Wellknown local yachtswoman, Natasha Lambert, will be judging. A lifeboat display will be launched off The Parade at approximately 11am and you will also be able to inspect a local fire appliance and hear mobile Coastguards talk about their work. Meanwhile, moored on Trinity Landing will be the Hampshire marine police catamaran. 8 Chivertons of Cowes is under new management New owner Jason Sellick is working hard to revamp the once popular newsagent back to its former glory. An exciting addition to the shop is the supply of party helium Photo l to r: Jackie Johnson, balloons and banners Jason Sellick and Rachel Bradley which can be supplied for private parties and events. Jason told the Beacon, “We are reopening and expanding the greetings card and stationary section. We currently stock scratchcards and also hope to reinstate the lottery soon to Chivertons." Newspaper and magazine delivery will continue as usual: “We have a great delivery team, and we would love more customers!” Jason explained. Chivertons can order newspapers and magazines from a list of over 3000 titles and deliver them directly to your door. Chivertons of Cowes 5 Shooters Hill, Cowes PO31 7BE. (01983) 716789 Pop in and talk to the team to arrange delivery of your favourite titles. Spring Floorcovering Offer ISLE OF WIGHT Magical May Half Term. Visit us at the South Western tip of the Island, explore our wonderful natural coastline and discover the world famous Needles Rocks and Alum Bay. ON OUR EXCLUSIVE 100% PERMALON easy care CARPETS* and ON OUR WOOL RICH CARPETS OFFERS MUST END MAY 16TH 2015 In our Spring offer we’ll upgrade the carpet you chose to the next available weight - at no extra cost! For example choose a 40oz and we’ll upgrade it to a 50oz. Lots more choice, colours, styles and designs available in-store along with all the friendly and experienced advice you need so call or visit today Visit our website for all our free entertainment this May Half Term. Only pay to park your car and for the activities you want to enjoy. 0871 720 0022* theneedles.co.uk The Needles, Alum Bay, Isle of Wight PO39 0JD *Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extra’s. *Offer is based on being upgraded to the next available weight in the same carpet range. Available on selected ranges only. Please ask in store for more details. Dabell’s Flooring and Rugs 19 Holyrood Street, Newport PO30 5AZ (opposite Hurst’s main entrance) Tel: 01983 521818 www.dabellsflooring.co.uk All the friendly advice you need, so call now for a free no obligation quote. 9 Essential new pit stop for cyclists now open in Cowes •Essential on-the-spot repairs in SpyVélo’s workshop (opposite the Pit Stop). •Equipment sales, including bike parts and accessories, to make travelling by cycle possible whether you are here on holiday or are doing the daily commute. •A refreshment stop offering a range of sports drinks and high energy nutrition and snacks, as well as coffee and other more traditional snacks to keep you hydrated and ready to roll! SpyVélo workshop and SpyVélo Pit Stop and Coffee House are located next to the Floating Bridge in Cowes. They are situated on one of the main gateways to the Island and the Round the Island cycle route, as well as being on the busy commuter route for foot passengers, cyclists and drivers travelling to and from Cowes and East Cowes. The SpyVélo Pit Stop and Coffee House is opposite SpyVélo workshop and is right next to the Floating Bridge. There you can buy coffee, cold drinks, snacks and basic cycling 10 Meanwhile, larger repairs, accessories and specialist equipment will also be offered from SpyVélo - a fully equipped workshop situated just 10 metres across the road at 42 parts, all whilst you wait for the Medina Road, Cowes. SpyVélo has Floating Bridge. two sister companies: SpyPrints SpyVélo Pit Stop will offer a range of provides vinyl graphics, apparel and goods and services for all cyclists: design and SailSpy is the GoPro sailing specialist. •Repair facilities to enable you to SpyVélo Workshop undertake essential maintenance 42 Medina Road, Cowes en route or access the professional (01983) 299314 workshop opposite. •An information point (also available [email protected] online via SpyVélo website) with Cowes Cycle Pit Stop and information on cycle routes and places to visit. Maps and promotional Coffee House 37 Medina Road, Cowes material will be available so you 07748 502967 can make the most of the Island’s [email protected] extensive cycle routes. Friends of St Mary’s Hospital, Age UK, Cowes Sailability, Needles National Coast Watch, RNLI, Classic Boat Museum, Isle of Wight Search and Rescue, Friends of Northwood Cemetery,Wessex Cancer Trust and many more. Tours of Northwood House and a volunteers’ fair are highlights of the Open House on Sunday, 3rd May, from 11am to 3pm. Do you want to learn a new skill or make new friends? Visit the stands at the Volunteers’ Fair during the Open Day. Organised in conjunction with the Isle of Wight Volunteer Centre, stands include Ability Dogs 4 Young People, English Heritage Trust, We look forward to hosting BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time on Tuesday 26 May. Tickets cost £4.50 and include a complimentary drink. Doors open at 5.10pm with recording starting at 6.10pm. Turn your unwanted items into cash at the Cowes Car Boot Sales: 10th Organised by Action Challenge, we May, 7th June, 5th July, 2nd August, are pleased to welcome Isle of Wight 6th September, and 4th October. Challenge into Northwood Park Held in Northwood Park off of Ward during the Bank Holiday weekend, Avenue, sellers arrive at 9am and Saturday 2nd May to Sunday 3rd buyers at 10am. Refreshments and May. Participants can walk, run or toilets are available in the Community jog the entire (106 km), a half (54 km) Hall. or a quarter of the Island (33 km). Part of the Isle of Wight Walking For further information about these Festival, look out for the alpacas events and more, visit walk from the Red Jet Terminal to www.northwoodhouse.org Northwood Park. or call 01983 293642 NORTHWOOD HOUSE Ward Avenue, Cowes Isle of Wight PO31 8AZ Registered Charity 1150641 | A Charitable Company: Registered No. 8025757 | VAT No: 158 5092 89 Cheap Day to Portsmouth EVERY Saturday throughout May - Leaves 0930 arrives back approximately 1800 Free car parking on a first come first serve basis Visit Portsmouth City, Gunwharf Quays or the Historic Dockyard. Departs Thetis Wharf in Cowes (next to chain ferry) Adults £7 – OAPs £6 – Children £5 Free Parking available on a first come first serve basis. Price does not include admission to attractions. Telephone for more details 01983 564602 or visit www.solentcruises.co.uk UP TO 70% LESS THAN MAJOR HIGH STREET RETAILERS Visit our High Street showroom Covering 2 floors Delivery within 48 hrs See our full range at www.stasofas.com 135 High St, Newport PO30 1TX Tel: (01983) 821262 Web: www.stasofas.com 11 SPORTS news Taking a closer look at the Island's golf team… In June four very determined young men will be going for the elusive gold team medal at the NatWest Island Games in Jersey; a truly ‘Island’ team hailing from Freshwater, Osborne, Shanklin and Westridge Golf Clubs. The team is led by Darren Masterton. As captain, Darren brings a wealth of experience to his third games, having achieved two silver medals in the team and a fourth in the singles in Bermuda. Darren has been Isle of Wight Golf Union (IWGU) Island Champion three times, four times Isle of Wight Golf Alliance Champion and five times champion at his home club of Osborne. Ryan Harmer, 19, from Freshwater Bay Golf Club has captained Hampshire Under 18 team at the England Golf County finals; played for Hampshire Colts and has recently debuted for the Hampshire First Team. Like Darren he’s also had success at his home club winning the championship there in 2013 and 2014. Josh Oddy, 17, from Westridge, got his call up last year to the England Under 16 team in matches against Scotland and then Ireland. Josh is a two time winner of the Hampshire Under 16 Championship and qualified for the matchplay section of the Hampshire Men’s Championship at the tender age of just 14. At Westridge Josh won the 2014 Men's and Junior Club Championships as well as holding the course record at five under par. Jordan Sundborg, also 17, plays out of Shanklin and Sandown and was in the England Under 16 Regional Squad from 2011 to 2013. He has also been a member of the Hampshire Tournament Squad since 2012 and he will be making his debut for the Hampshire First Team in Guernsey later this year. Jordan currently holds the Hampshire County Foursomes Championship partnered by Nat Riddett, as well as being the current Island Men’s Champion and a three time winner of the Junior Championship. Having Island golfers rallying behind them to help finance their bid for gold, as well as businesses like Premier Ford Rental providing transport, the team have every chance of achieving their dream of gold. And you never know, an individual gold might be with in reach as well and we haven’t won one of them since Dave McToldridge in 1993! Sporting sponsorship powers athletes to the Island Games Over 200 Island athletes, representing the Island in 12 sports, are being given a helping hand by Wightlink to get to Jersey by providing complimentary travel across the Solent. Mark Persad of Wightlink told us more: “We are really proud to support those competing at the 16th Natwest Island Games. Wightlink has been supporting the Isle of Wight team since the start of the games, which are so vital in showcasing our local talent on an international platform. We’ll all be rooting for them as the Games get underway.” The support is part of the ferry company’s wide-ranging community sponsorship programme that supports over 50 local organisations. This includes helping young people and youth organisations, individuals who have the potential to excel in their area, disadvantaged or vulnerable members of the community and Island sports teams and groups. The company’s chosen charity for 2015 is the Isle of Wight Youth Trust, a service that offers counselling, advice, information and support services to young people aged 25 and under on the Isle of Wight. 12 At our waterfront Clubhouse in Yarmouth on: Saturday 2nd May 11:30am - 2:00pm If you enjoy meeting people, socialising & new experiences, why not come along? Sailors & landlubbers of all ages are welcome! Tour our recently extended Clubhouse & enjoy a free drink on arrival. Chat to us about all the different activities our members enjoy both on & off the water. Book yourself in for lunch in our waterside restaurant. Apply to become a member on Open Day & enjoy 10% OFF your subscription for the first year! To find out more visit www.royalsolent.org or contact Claire Hallett on 01983 760256 or at [email protected] 13 THE JOHN HANNAM INTERVIEW Megan Turner Photographs from left to right: Megan today. Fighting for her life (note the ruler). At five weeks old. Five year old Megan with her mum and dad. Megan Turner is seventeen this month which is something of a miracle in itself. Back in May 1998 she was born 16 weeks premature at St Mary’s Hospital and weighed in at just 1lb 6ozs, which was less than a bag of sugar. Like any new birth it was a joyous occasion but her parents, Ann and Steve, had been made aware their celebrations might be cut short as there was only a ten per cent chance she would survive. With Steve as the inspiration and Megan being a real fighter they remained positive and after many weeks she finally left hospital as a bonny baby of 5lb 6ozs. Initially she could lay in Steve’s hand. Apparently, one or two were worried about this.They had obviously seen him play as a goalkeeper in Island League football! Joking aside, he always remained confident and coped by recording so much detail including pictures of the very caring staff and any progress she made. The nurses at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) made their own diary and kept it tied to the incubator, where she spent the first 10 weeks of her precious life. One of the staff wrote on the diary cover, as if she were Megan. It read: “Will anyone who looked after me on my holiday here please make an entry in my diary.” Ann still has it and it makes fascinating reading. There were many scary moments and the lingering worry that she might be brain damaged. Megan has read it once and told me. “When I read it I got choked up because they obviously thought so much of tiny little me. I owe my life to them. They called themselves my ‘NICU aunties’, using the initials of their unit.” Just after Megan came out of hospital she came live on to my radio show and managed the odd gurgle. She’s been back on several occasions and I have enjoyed watching her progress. When we met up again for this interview she gave me a great hug and then didn’t stop talking. She’s exhilarating company and has so much energy! Megan was around the age of five when her parents explained all about her dramatic fight for life. They took her 14 to an event promoting blood donors and she was the perfect example of how blood helped her pull through. She needed it virtually every day of her hospital stay. Megan explained it in her own unique way, “Dad was the smart gene, mum was the crazy gene and the sexy gene was down to the blood transfusions!” Originally, it was thought she would take some time to catch up on normal life but, luckily, this has long been overcome. She enjoyed her school days, particularly at Solent Middle. Over the years her favourite subjects were History, English and German. Now she writes poetry. “I also liked drama but this was kind of bullied out of me at school but I am hoping to go back to it,” said Megan. Currently she’s studying for an office and administration diploma at the IW College and next year will be attending a Performing Arts Level 2 course at the same venue. Hence her ambition to act, sing and dance. “I can flap my arms and warble a bit so I am hoping to do alright. When I was at school I was once typecast as a mad woman!” Megan, who lives in Cowes, already has a dream to work permanently at Osborne House but she has to be eighteen. In summer she’s a volunteer guide and loves every minute. Once, a family told her that she had made their day with her enthusiasm and knowledge. To Megan, this kind of comment was worth more than money. The Turner family has continually supported the NICU at St Mary’s. They are so grateful for all the love and care that was offered during Megan’s fight for survival. Ann has an amazing box of memorabilia. They had to buy a cat drinking bottle to feed her with milk. During this delicate routine she also had a breathing tube in her mouth. The nappies were made from breast pads and the bootees were so tiny. They had a ‘100 Day Party’ for Megan during her hospital stay. There were also more fun moments. When she had to go to Portsmouth, with eye problems, they had a special passport made which was stamped on every trip. At one time they had to shave Megan’s head to get into a vein and Ann still has the original hair. When Mum and Dad were out of the room I picked up one or two secrets from Megan. Ann turned down a date with Steve on at least three occasions. Eventually she relented and he bought her a bunch of red carnations on their first one, “Now when Dad buys mum flowers she wonders what he’s done or broken!” Over the years, one or two national magazines have contacted Ann for a possible story. When they have discovered that Megan is now perfectly normal, with no problems, they have not phoned back. They are just a devoted family and a joy to be with. Ann told me: “Megan’s a good friend, great company and a pleasure to be with.” Steve added: “She’s come a long way and achieved a lot. I’m really proud of her.” I left the last words to Megan: “John, I still want your job of meeting all those famous people.” I’d better watch out. Megan Turner Meets has a certain ring to it! Little Hayes Care Home Our experienced team have enjoyed providing care for over 40 Years. We have 32 en suite bedrooms; some with sea views or overlooking the gardens. We have 2 lovely lounges and a busy dining room providing nutritious and tasty food 24 hours a day. Every day offers activities and socialising or peace and quiet it’s always your choice, after all it’s your home. Great care is only a few miles away Call 01983 752378 and ask for Amanda Saunders our Manager or call in and see us, Church Hill, Totland, PO39 0EX. Visit www.littlehayescarehome.co.uk Watch your business grow To advertise to homes and business Islandwide call 522123 Beacon 15 Prices Garage officially Island’s fastest business! Wight Karting launched the Business vs Business Race Championship in February and so far 37 local businesses have taken part in the racing challenge. Prices Garage beat off stiff competition from Ryde Taxis and Island Trade Windows to be presented with trophies and year’s worth advertising with Wight Karting. Can you help Friends of the Animals build the future? For 25 years Friends of the Animals has helped many thousands of sick, injured and unwanted animals and have also performed 28,800 spays and neuters. However, the charity urgently needs your help as next year the lease on their Newport premises expires. A builder has calculated the number of bricks needed to secure a permanent base for the charity and Friends of the Animals will be working hard to raise the £200,000 needed. You can help them by sponsoring a brick and literally putting a ‘brick in the wall’ for the charity. Visit friendsoftheanimals.co.uk for more details. Here’s a good plan £100 towards your fully pre-paid funeral For more details visit or call Freshwater The Avenue, PO40 9UU 01983 756503 Exclusive offer for Freshwater £100 OFF our Pre-paid Funeral Plan www.funeralcare.co.uk Terms & Conditions: 1. This discount is solely redeemable by the presenter of the voucher, who may use it to purchase a plan for themselves or an immediate family member, but must be the person paying for the Plan. The voucher may not be exchanged for cash. 2. The discount will be deducted from the retail price of the Funeral Plan purchased at time of sale. 3. Only one discount is available per transaction. 4. This voucher has no cash value and may not be used in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. 5. The decision of Southern Co-operative Funerals Limited in relation to each discount is final and binding. 6. Voucher will be void if reproduced or photocopied. 7. Southern Co-operative Funerals Limited reserves the right to withdraw this promotion at any time. 8. This voucher is valid until 04.09.2015 BEA/FRESH/15/02 Part of The Southern Co-operative 16 Trend Youth Cafe proving popular with after school crowd Trend, the UK’s first dedicated upcycling youth cafe is now open on Newport High Street, in the distinctive former Osbornes’ gentlemen’s outfitters shop (opposite the Guildhall). Trend is the latest practical scheme to come from the Island-based charity The Footprint Trust, who were recently presented with the Queen’s Award for Voluntary service to the Isle of Wight community. Trend Cafe provides a drop-in centre for young people aged between 11-19 and gives them the opportunity to meet in a safe environment, with low-cost drinks and snacks. Free internet access using upcycled computers is available, and tabletop games and puzzles are proving very popular. There is a wide range of information available about issues that affect young people, and a recent mocktail afternoon, promoting healthy alternatives to alcohol, proved to be very popular! Alongside the social opportunities, young people can take part in upcycling workshops and learn skills in creation, design and enterprise. Volunteers and guests bring a broad range of skills into the cafe, and the Footprint Trust is working with partners to host taster sessions of other activities available on the Island, such as art workshops led by artists from Quay Arts. Local businesses have already come forward, offering help and support, but The Trust would like to hear from you if you can donate shop fittings, staff time, materials or would like to buy upcycled items from the Trend shop. Speaking on behalf of the Trust, Rachel Brown told the Beacon about the positive effect on the Island’s youth: “We are delighted that the first few months of Trend has proven to be such a success. It gives us a real opportunity to build on our established work and open up links into employability by designing and delivering this youth-led green enterprise project”. The project can be contacted by emailing [email protected] or by phone (01983) 822282. You can follow what happening on twitter @trendiw or on the Trend Youth Cafe Facebook Page. 17 ISLAND STORY by Alan Stroud The Royal Pier Hotel And Young Fred Bull Until 1931 the Royal Pier Hotel stood at the bottom of Union Street in Ryde where today’s roundabout now stands. Traffic coming down the hill was faced with a notoriously difficult righthand corner into what was then Pier Street, where the hotel stood on the left-hand side. One afternoon in March 1929, Charlie Wheeler, a driver for the Enterprise bus company, lost control of his bus as he drove down Union Street. In front of horrified lunchtime shoppers two people were killed in the crash that followed as Charlie tried in vain to get round the sharp corner. On board were nine passengers and the conductor, Fred Bull, aged just 19. The bus, just in from East Cowes, had made its first stop at Cross Street where a lady and two little girls had the good luck to get off. Charlie then set off down Union Street with the remaining passengers, among them Jack Nunn, 45, a ship’s rigger returning to Essex after several days working at East Cowes. Charlie told the subsequent inquest how he had driven down Union Street in third gear, “Everything went well until I reached the Post Office, when the bus shot ahead all at once. I tried the foot brake but there was nothing there and I pulled the handbrake as hard as I could and I shut off the engine.” A witness at the inquest, Reg Yeldon, told the court, “I was outside the Post Office. My attention was first Pier Street in 1913. On the right, the King Lud with its mock Tudor front and on the left, the side of the Royal Pier Hotel. 18 caught by the rolling of the body of the bus going from side to side, then I heard a loud noise which I think was the brakes being applied, or reversing the gears, and the bus then seemed to gather speed. It was travelling at about 30 miles an hour, the fastest I’d ever seen a bus go down the street.” Edward Stock, another witness, watched in horror as the bus hurtled past him, “The driver was going fast The Royal Pier Hotel in 1907. and I wondered if it was going to make the corner at the bottom at that pace.” By now lunchtime shoppers were rooted to the spot, looking on in horror as the bus careered helplessly down the road and it was obvious to all that the bus and its occupants were in serious trouble. Winifred Teesdale told the court, “As it got near the bottom of Union Street I happened to look at the conductor who was on the bottom step. The bus got quicker and when it passed me it was over on its two nearside wheels.” Charlie took the corner at nearly 30 miles an hour, “I tried the best I could to swing round in to Pier Street. I got part of the way round but what happened then I don’t know. I just trusted to Providence to get round.” Providence wasn’t enough. Charlie had no chance and shocked onlookers saw the bus take the corner practically on two wheels and then topple over onto its left-hand side, felling a lamppost in the process. Jack Nunn suffered serious head injuries and was killed instantly, his body ending up lying on the ground in between the lamppost and the bus. Charlie was pulled from the wreckage through the broken windows, frightened and in a serious state of shock but somehow with only superficial injuries, “All I know is that I fell under the bus… The hotel demolition in October 1931; a sketch by Tom Smitch of the County Press. but I was one of the lucky ones.” He was indeed. Poor Fred Bull was not so lucky. The 19 year old, one of a family of 12, and described as “a promising young lad and a popular fellow,” was pinned face down on the road underneath the platform with much of the weight of the bus resting on him. Someone had telephoned for an ambulance and by the time it got there the crowd had lifted the platform and pulled him out. He was taken to Ryde Hospital where he spoke briefly, complaining of chest pains, but quickly lapsed into unconsciousness, dying 15 minutes later. He had been a bus conductor for only twelve weeks. Back at Pier Street the wrecked bus lay on its side until mid-afternoon, “Her ripped front and her battered side with its broken glass presenting a sorry sight. A sense of gloom passed over the town. “ The Inquest jury exonerated Charlie Wheeler from all blame, describing the braking system of the bus as “useless.” They also said something should be done about the dangerous corner. The Council, who had twice turned down the chance to buy the hotel, were now stung into action. They bought it for £13,800 and it was demolished in October 1931. Fred Bull, Jack Nunn and Pier Street then quietly passed into history. 19 W IN A C AR W O R TH O V ER £ 10 ,0 0 0 ! the team at the s in 2015 and as part of this celebration, Isle of Wight Radio is celebrating 25 year This money will ntbatten Hospice in a bid to raise £35,000. Mou Earl the with es forc ed join have ion stat illnesses who will help support Islanders with life limiting be used to employ a community nurse, who wish to be cared for at home. About the prize… Funds will be raised through a spectacular raffle, with every ticket bought entered into a prize draw it win a car! One lucky winner will become the proud owner of a silver Peugeot 208 Access. The five door, 1.2 petrol car is worth over £10,000! How to enter… on each raffle ticket purchased from Isle Simply fill in your name and telephone number (on Halberry Lane) and all Hospice shops of Wight Radio, The Earl Mountbatten Hospice payment to any one of the outlets and you across the Island. Return these tickets and your t Britain and over 16 years of age to enter. are in the draw! You must be a resident of Grea And the lucky winner is… The closing date for entries is Thursd ay 10th December 2015. The draw will take place LIVE on Topping in the Morning on Isle of Wight Radio FM107 & 102. Keep listening for more details. Good luck! 20 WILLIAM HALL INDEPENDENT FUNERAL DIRECTORS AT SOME point in your life it is likely you will be faced with the very distressing and daunting experience of arranging a funeral for a loved one, or a person close to you. personal service they provide, maintaining a high level of professionalism at all times, while conducting themselves with the kindness, compassion and understanding At a time like this, choosing the right funeral which is needed at such a time. director is of paramount importance. They Based at Newchurch, William Hall Funeral Directors employs six full-time members will guide you and your family through this of staff, who are all professionally trained very difficult time. A funeral can only take to the highest standard and are dedicated place once and by combining memories, music, hymns, poems and readings, a service to serving the needs of their community. A can be made more personal and reflect that Jaguar hearse and limousine form part of the impressive fleet of cars that are used, person’s life. A funeral service is an event including a striking Victorian horse-drawn that aids the natural grieving process. hearse. William Hall Funeral Directors is an independent funeral director and a member of The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD) and The National Society of Allied and Independent Funeral Directors (SAIF), both of which are funeral trade associations, which ensure the highest professional standards are maintained and a strict code of practice is adhered to, which they regularly monitor. Formed in 1992 by William Hall, with the aim of offering a unique and individual service to families, William Hall Funeral Directors has helped, guide and support thousands of families on the Isle of Wight. William Hall Funeral Directors provide a professional, caring service 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to the whole Island community and pride themselves on the also areas for cremated remains, these areas are already planted with trees, so relatives can select their tree and the cremated A funeral plan is a thoughtful way of preparing for the future. It enables you to fix remains will be buried in front of their chosen tree. This option caters for people the cost of your funeral director’s services who do not wish for a full burial but would at today’s prices, no matter how much prefer cremation. this may increase in the coming years. By choosing to plan ahead for your funeral, you The cemetery is a haven for wildlife in and your loved ones will benefit from peace all shapes and forms; this is, in the true of mind, knowing everything is taken care of sense, creating life from death. Springwood cemetery prides itself on being a peaceful in advance. and tranquil place of natural outstanding beauty and a haven for wildlife. Since the cemetery was created, bird feeders, nesting boxes, slowworm areas, kestrel boxes and stands have all been added, these have encouraged and protected wildlife, as a result it now has resident squirrels, hares, foxes, kestrels, owls and many other birds within the cemetery. nearly a million people in Britain have taken out a funeral plan. William Hall’s committed service begins as soon as you contact them, often extending Springwood cemetery far beyond the day of the funeral. With their William Hall Funeral Directors also own support, you will be guided and supported Springwood Woodland Cemetery. Started every step of the way. in 1995, Springwood Cemetery was one of Golden Charter Funeral plans – the first woodland burial sites in the country. a most thoughtful decision They can also offer advice on prepaid funeral Within the cemetery there are consecrated and non consecrated areas, catering for plans. A funeral plan can save you money all beliefs. Each grave has a tree planted in and provides invaluable peace of mind for you and your family. The reassurance gained memory of their loved one and a simple bronze memorial plaque to mark the grave from making arrangements in advance and is placed at the base of the tree. There are these escalating costs are the reasons why PLEASE TELEPHONE 01983 868688 book your FreE Orthodontic CONSULTATION www.williamhallfuneraldirectors.com At Woo on Bridge Dental Prac ce, we offer a wide range of dental treatments. Whether it’s to improve your dental health, gain smile confidence, or to receive regular, quality general maintenance, then come and meet our friendly team and find out how we are bringing a fresh approach to dental care. Our Services include Dental Implants Tooth Whitening Crowns & Bridges General Den stry Clear Braces Dentures Cosme c Den stry Private Dental Plan Implant Secured Dentures Facial Aesthe cs We are now accepting Free Consulta ons also available for wrinkle relaxing injec ons and facial fillers www.Woo onBridgeDentalPrac ce.co.uk new patients Call us on 01983 882 111 2A Rectory Drive Woo on Bridge, Ryde, PO33 4QQ Telephone 01983 882111 Email info@woo onbridgedentalprac ce.co.uk 21 Eating www.missdottys.co.uk Drinking With Isle of Wight Radio celebrating their 25th birthday, they thought it only right that they asked Miss Dotty’s Cakes to make the birthday cake! Here, Miss Dotty talks us through the process of what goes into making one her incredible cakes… Here is the base layer of the cake that is made from chocolate ganache The back computer screen was actually made from Rice Krispies! Buttons and switches added... This shows the beginning of the detail being applied to the cake, so it is starting to look like the mixing desk used in the studio at Isle of Wight Radio. Here is the grey fondant being applied to the base. The finished cake! 22 Presenting the birthday cake to Topping in the Morning’s Paul and Emily. Proudly sponsored by Betapak Suppliers of Island Tea and Coffee Island Tea and Coffee provides customers with a high quality range of products, all specially chosen to suit our customer’s needs. From our smooth roasted Blue Mountain Blend coffee to our rich tasting Carisbrooke tea, specially brewed for the Island hard waters. Visit www.betapak.co.uk for more information on our products. Gossips Cafe, Yarmouth Amabi, Cowes Gossip’s pride themselves on serving only Italy’s favourite, Lavazza coffee, for both their speciality and regular coffees. Occupying an enviable location at the entrance to Yarmouth Pier, on the waters edge at the end of Yarmouth Square, you will receive a warm welcome. At Gossip’s you can enjoy your coffee moment and, of course, the unbeatable view. Freshly made meals, cakes and pastries are available daily. Amabi’s coffee is imported from the Basque country and the beans are hand blended from the finest selected beans for a consistently smooth coffee. Enjoy a cup of Amabi coffee during National Coffee Week, if you love it, buy some to take home with 20% off a kilo bag of Amabi coffee beans. Cafe Verdi, Fort Victoria Country Park Open every day during the summer months from 9.30am for freshly brewed coffee and serving all day breakfasts, lunches, homemade cakes and cream teas. Enjoy woodland walks, all the attractions in the Fort and the seaside all in one place. Come and enjoy the spectacular view on their patio. Sugarloaf Coffee House The Avenue, Freshwater National Coffee Week offer: Coffee and cake £3.00 (available between 2pm-4pm). Delicious coffee using the finest Arabica coffee beans. Selection of homemade cakes to choose from including delicious raspberry Bakewell cake, gluten free coffee cake, chocolate brownies and cup cakes. Open Monday-Friday 8.30am-5pm and Saturday 9.30am-4pm. Amabi Restaurant and Tapas Bar, Shepards Wharf, Cowes PO31 7HT (01983) 716164 The Piano Cafe, Freshwater Bay Enjoy the picturesque surroundings whilst sipping a cup of quality barista coffee made using the Piano Cafe’s own freshly ground four bean blend coffee 'Piano, Piano’. The Island roasted coffee is smooth with a full bodied taste. The specialty breakfast menu is served daily Tuesday to Sunday from 8.30am11.00am. The Piano Cafe, Gate Lane, Freshwater Bay, PO40 9PY (01983) 472874 23 & Health 24 Wellbeing Learn to manage day-today issues associated with diabetes Fully Qualified Nurse Tel: 07584 65 88 69 www.thelodgeiow.com Botox l Dermal Fillers l Skin Peels Confidential and discreet l Free Consultation No Obligation l Harley Street Trained Practitioner The Lodge, Courtlodge Court Road Freshwater PO40 9NU West Wight Sports Centre Moa Place, Freshwater. Every Tuesday from 9th June to 14th July 14:00pm - 16:30pm. Every Wednesday from 10th June to 15th July 10:00am - 12:30pm. Freephone telephone number – 03333 445 840 www.selfmanagementuk.org A NEW LEVEL OF CREATIVE EXPRESSION West Wight Sports Centre, Moa Place, Freshwater, IW PO40 9XH Tel: 01983 755123 2 High Street Yarmouth Telephone: (01983) 760994 4 High Street, Yarmouth Telephone: (01983) 760994 Relaxation Full Body massage only £26 throughout May usually £33 The perfect treatment to unwind, distress and aid those tense & tired muscles Open 10am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday Hair Salon 1A Pallance Road, Northwood Telephone: (01983) 289890 Curve and Heat Spray Discover instant hair transformation with solutions for all hair types, textures and conditions. Create smooth, healthy, strong, frizz-free and easy to manage hair. Open Tuesday - Friday 9 - 5pm Saturday 9 - 4pm Late nights Tuesday & Thursday until 6.30pm Providing an invisible barrier against everyday heat damage on damp or dry hair Open Monday - Friday 9 - 6pm Saturday 9 - 4pm Late night opening Tuesday & Thursday until 7pm 25 Podiatry / Chiropody Clinic All your foot problems dealt with General Chiropody w Nail Surgery Biomechanics w All Ages Welcome Miss L.E.N. Davison BSc (Hons) MChS, 1 York Avenue, East Cowes, IW Please call for an appointment: 299899 Surgery open Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Merrimeade, Summers Lane, Totland Bay. Tel: 753639 muscle, joint and back pain St Georges Physiotherapy, 3 Lower St James Street, Newport 753639 ALSO Wheelchairs • Bath lifts • Walkers • Adjustable beds & chairs • Accessories FREE ISLANDWIDE DELIVERY Great deals on mobility scooters and lift and recline chairs New store NOW OPEN in Avenue Road FRESHWATER 755565 SHANKLIN 866431 56 Regent Street NEWPORT 533500 9 St Thomas Square To advertise in the Health and Wellbeing pages, call our friendly team on 522123 26 Discover a world of exciting opportunities! A host of new opportunities are now on offer to Islanders with disabilities at the Way Forward Programme in Newport. The charity has become an accredited ASDAN Centre providing vocational qualifications including Expressive Arts, Sports and Fitness and Animal Care. It is also the only centre on the Island to offer the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award exclusively for those with physical and learning disabilities aged 18 to 24. This is on top of a packed programme of exciting activities including drama, dance, music, film, and photography. Support is offered 7 days a week on either an individual or group basis. Discover a world of exciting opportunities! Would you like to go on an expedition? Would you like to gain a qualification? Would you like to act in a musical? Are You Embarrassed To Smile For Photos? Lots of people are and it’s a pity because if you don’t smile people may think you look miserable! Summer’s just around the corner and with it comes weddings, holidays and family get-togethers. Let us keep you smiling! Book a New Patient Examination at Avenue Road Dental Practice and we’ll explain all the things that can be done to help you look your best. It may be as simple as a thorough clean and polish but even if it’s more complicated than that modern dentistry can provide stunning smiles simply and comfortably for just about everyone. Would you like to exhibit in a gallery? Don’t delay! Call us today on 01983 759567 or visit our website www.wightdental.co.uk We look forward to meeting you soon! You can do all this and more with the Way Forward Programme We are the only centre on the Isle of Wight supporting people with physical and learning disabilities which offers: ASDAN accredited qualifications Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme Get in touch today! www.wayforwardprogramme.co.uk 01983 523000 [email protected] Charity No: 1007947 Avenue Road Dental Practice Freshwater I PO40 9UT 27 This month’s news sponsored by Glanvilles Legal Financial Paying care fees under the new Care Act 2014. The new Care Act has now come into force and one of the headlines is that a person can defer selling their house to pay for care. This seems very reassuring, however there are some details you may wish to consider to avoid being caught out. A deferred payment agreement is an arrangement with the Local Authority that enables people to use the value of their homes to help pay for care home fees. If you are eligible, the Local Authority will help pay your care home bills and you can delay repaying them until you sell or after you die. When deferring payments there will be interest to pay which could be considerable. There may well be a fee to set this up and the Local Authority can charge interest up to a maximum rate of 2.65% (reviewable every 6 months). Assuming the property is going to remain empty, that asset is not going to produce income, unlike investments for instance. Renting 28 out the property may be an option and may ensure more favourable terms on your home insurance. Most importantly the legislation is clear that if a person in need of care has lost mental capacity, for example through dementia, the local authority will only agree to defer payments if there is an application by someone with the benefit of a Lasting Power of Attorney. If you or someone you know has a degenerative illness and you want the choice of being able to keep your home during your lifetime, then don’t delay, call us now for an appointment to talk through your options on 01983 527878 or email hannah.lisseter@ glanvilles.co.uk HANNAH LISSETER Crimestoppers - Protect your pension pot From April 2015 the rules surrounding pension funds changed and there are now more choices than ever before about how you can access your pension pot. It is possible that fraudsters may try to take advantage of these new rules by trying to persuade you to cash in your pension and hand the money over to them ‘to invest’. Watch out particularly for people contacting you out of the blue or adverts claiming to offer free pension reviews or no-obligation consultations. Investment scams can look and sound believable, with smooth-talking salespeople, slick websites or sophisticated brochures and prospectuses. This can make it hard to tell them apart from genuine investment opportunities. Not everyone is trying to defraud you or con you out of your money, but just be aware that if something seems to be too good to be true, it quite possibly is. Be on high alert and don’t be afraid to say no or put the phone down! WALTER GRAY & CO SOLICITORS An efficient and friendly service for: • Wills and Probate • Elder Client Issues • Conveyancing • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Property Disputes WALTER GRAY & CO SOLICITORS COMMISSIONERS FOR OATHS Appointments available at our offices in Cowes and Ryde as well as use of premises on request in Ventnor High Street and Shanklin Regent Street. Home visits available Islandwide for the disabled and elderly at no extra cost. Please telephone: 563765 for more information. [email protected] www.waltergray.co.uk *Our Cowes office is now located at 13 Denmark Road, Cowes. Regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, number 515176 Also, please be vigilant if you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours and report your concerns to the police. You may have been wise enough to turn away the unsolicited caller, but your neighbours may be grateful that you reported the incident to save them from becoming a victim. If you’ve information about any crime, please call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111, or log on to www. crimestoppers-uk.org where you can also give information without anyone knowing who you are. Your call is free, no one will know you called and you may earn a cash reward. You can also follow me on twitter @IOWCrimestopp PC Simon Wright 29 Homes & Gardens May ushers in an abundance of blooms to the garden. Many trees and shrubs are almost bowed down under the weight of blossom and herbaceous perennials are shooting out of the ground so quickly that you can almost watch them grow! As well as all the flowers, the subtle tints of fresh young foliage make up a marvellous tapestry of colour. The weather can, as we all know, be a little changeable in May. There can be beautiful warm days, but still sharp and cruel frosts that may can damage tender plants. However, you should be Actions for MAY m occasional need protection fro ay m s nt pla er nd Te ts of polythene. t with fleece or shee ec ot Pr . sts fro p ar sh are a clear a night frost coming of ns sig le l-ta tel e Th y. of a warm sunny da blue sky at the end eir summer are gearing up for th While many plants on be over, dding plants will so display, the spring be ents. A wide about their replacem and it is time to think on show at be bedding plants will selection of summer centres. nurseries and garden harvesting t you should now be In the vegetable plo a succession tables. To guarantee delicious early vege on, continue throughout the seas of young vegetables ven or ten day of all vegetables at se with regular sowing inter vals. cumbers, les like tomatoes, cu Greenhouse vegetab t into growing ou ed can be plant s ine rg be au d an s pepper nhouse soil. directly into the gree bags, large pots or her plants ot all ings and stake Train tomatoes up str using bamboo. ly as growth lished lawns regular Mow new and estab compost heap ass cuttings on the increases. Put the gr rial or it will th other coarser mate and mix them well wi as t gr s clippings less mass. Don’t pu become a soggy, air ey will heat up as mulch, because th directly on borders e the plants. and this could damag 30 able to harvest plenty of fresh vegetables including a bounty of delicious asparagus! Plant of the mon th Nigella damascena ‘Love-in-a-mist’ Nigella ‘Love-in-a-mist’ is an old cottage garden flower, a favourite for scattering wherever there is a gap in the flower border, but also good for short-term massed bedding and for drying. Love-in-a-mist is a vigorous annual that produces sky-blue flowers, surrounded by a ruff of slender leaves. Grow in full sun in any moderately fertile, well drained soil. Sow seeds in the flowering site in spring and thin seedlings to 23 cm apart. They can be sown in autumn for earlier flowers and should be protected with cloches during the winter when it is cold and wet. Love-in-a-mist last for about eight weeks, and it is worth deadheading or sowing a later batch to extend the season. IF you have problems with damp, book your free visit today. This company offers a unique product, the Schrijver Damp Control System, which is an awardwinning solution to problems caused by rising damp, penetrating damp and condensation. The Schrijver System works in a completely different way to any other traditional damp proofing methods and the principle is simple — remove the moisture and you get rid of the problems caused by damp. The company does this by installing a series of small, discreet handmade elements into the external face of the wall to lower humidity levels and reduce any excess moisture in the walls, which will protect your home and the health of you and your family. Moisture is drawn out of the wall into these elements and then channelled into the outside air. For All Your ElectriCall Needs Tel. 01983 616961 www.electricalliow.co.uk [email protected] This months special offer: DOMESTIC ELECTRICAL CONDITION REPORT* £120 exc VAT This report lasts up to 10 years and is invaluable if you are: • selling your home • preparing a property for rent • buying a previously occupied property See Offers page on website for more details *This offer is for homes up to 4 bedrooms - Price is exclusive of VAT. Offer valid with this coupon only, until 31/05/15 Frank Schrijver engineers now on the Island for an entire week, every month. Post Puller – For Hire Removes all posts with concrete footings l Established 1986 All the work is carried out externally — there are no chemicals, no need to re-plaster or redecorate and no mess, just a permanent solution to the problems caused by damp, backed up by a lifetime guarantee. To arrange a free visit or find out more, call 01689 800101. l Quality fencing, gates and posts supplied & fixed SPRING SPECIAL: www.shortsfencing.co.uk CALL JEREMY SHORT: 01983 753651 anytime or Mobile: 07767 014680 15% discount on all projects installed by May 29, 2015. Quote code IWB15. T&C apply. SOLVE THE DAMP PROBLEM IN YOUR HOME WITH THE Schrijver System R Effective for: Rising Damp Penetrative Damp Condensation Installed entirely from the outside NO Replastering! NO Redecorating! www.schrijverdampcontrol.co.uk 01689 800 101 15% discount quote ‘IWB15’ l Skilled labour, free estimates & work guaranteed l Landscaping service & tree work l Fully insured Gardening... Home furnishing Call our friendly sales team now to advertise on 522123 Does your house suffer from DAMP or MOULD? If so you may be in need of a Cavity Wall Extraction or Rubble Clearance. Call 01489 588052 / 07914480630 for further advice or quote. www.vac-xtract.co.uk [email protected] Manager’s specials: See in store Open 7 days a week • RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL FLOORING AVAILABLE • LARGE REMNANT SELECTION • FREE ESTIMATES • NO EXTRA SURCHARGES* *There is a fitting service charge (We are next to Jollyes) 12 Hurstake Road, Riverway Industrial Estate Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5UU Telephone: (01983) 533150 SAVE 10% *with this advert Prices from £4.99 per SQM www.dscarpets.co.uk Find us on Facebook 31 Phil’s Handyman Service -Any Job Considered -No Job Too Small Tel: 752027 Mobile: 07955 381269 01983 741207 WATES COURT, BROAD LANE, BRIGHSTONE, NEWPORT Island Repointing Damp Proof Couse Installation & Cavity Clearance Vacuum Grinding Islandwide Coverage Builders All aspects of interior and exterior work undertaken For a free Island wide quote please call 07773936814 HARD LANDSCAPING SPECIALISTS Greenen Natural Stone & Brick Masonry Waterproofing & Brick Replacement JDL Fencing, panels, trellis and much more. For all your fencing and gardening needs Chris Greenen est.1984 BRICK PAVING l CONCRETE PATIOS l DRIVEWAYS l FENCING Telephone: 01983 520380 Tel: 01983 531461 or 07715 397896 SOS Flat Roofing Small Job Builder • UPVC fascias and guttering • Guarantees on all work • Fully insured • Free estimates and advice Kitchens l Bathrooms l Painting and decorating Brickwork pointing l Renovations Quality work l Excellent References High Performance Elastomeric Systems Call Paul on: 01983 759676 All types of building work Call for a no cost fixed quotation on 07767608987 / 07770 051209 AVC Commercial Grounds Maintenance l l l l l Bathrooms Fitted City & Guilds Qualified Friendly, Reliable Service No Call Out Charge Fully insured for domestic & commercial work Call Mark on 759035 or 07984651393 Hotels Bars and Pubs Business and Retail Parks Landlords Property Developers Property Management Companies Industrial Estates Care homes Holiday Homes Call Simon: 07792 961718 AVC GARDEN MAINTENANCE NPTC TESTING SKILLS for the INDUSTRY For a friendly & professional service call Simon: 07792 961718 Grass Cutting Strimming Weeding Hedge Trimming Fencing Tree Felling NPTC & Stump Removal All rubbish removed Fully Insured 20 Years Experience Russell Farrell TV & Home Entertainment Specialist Following the closure of Audiovision Service, I am still carrying out service and repairs to audio-visual equipment in the West Wight. I can be contacted on my mobile, by e-mail, or on 752023 - where you can leave a message which I will respond to during working hours. ANDREW WALLIS Tree Work l Fencing l Landscaping l Turfing Ground Clearance l Paths l Patios l Hedge Cutting l Seeding Thank you for your continued support! Tel: 07598 122142 E: [email protected] 32 Fully insured to £5 million NPTC Lantra Qualified Contractor to the local Parish Council 26 Years Experience Telephone: 01983 754508 Gardening... Home furnishing SLS Property Service CARPET & UPHOLSTERY Est,2004 Specialising in small jobs, a professional and friendly service. Plumbing, carpentry, Int/Ext decorating, household repairs. Fully insured. References available. Free estimates. Contact Stuart on: 01983 754725 / 07979 081439 [email protected] CARPETS CLEANED FROM £1 PER SQUARE METRE Call our friendly sales team now to advertise on 522123 CARPET STEAM CLEANING FREE QUOTES GIVEN OVER THE PHONE OR BY APPOINTMENT Greg Collett - Trained Professional Operator Tel: 01983 752191 Mob: 07717 532 772 Mark Carter Island Windows • Doors • Conservatories Fascias • Soffits • Guttering Windows LTD A RATED WINDOWS AS STANDARD Oil and Gas Engineer Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer Serving the West Wight and Cowes area Unit 4, Marsh Close, Sandown Tel. 404036 E. [email protected] Tel: 619111 Mobile: 07771 557769 Gas Safe Registered 28450 Oftec Oil Registered C12814 Boilers Installed, Serviced & Repaired Heating system repairs and upgrades Landlord Gas Certificates issued Agas & Rayburn Serviced Swimming Pool Boiler Services Fires, Cookers, Hobs & Ranges installed Power Flushes and system Cleanses Pre purchase House Inspection If it uses gas we can fix or replace it Natural Gas & LPG & oil the electric shop Avenue Road • Freshwater Tel: 01983 755988 Open Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Cookers l Refrigeration Home Laundry l Cleaners Televisions l Microwaves Most leading brands available: WEST WIGHT MINI SKIPS LTD ALL SKIP SIZES AVAILABLE TOP SOIL AND BALLAST ETC Call IW-760559 We now do bulk bag deliveries Free delivery in the West Wight RVN BUILDING SUPPLIES For all your building requirements www.westwightminiskips.co.uk Plumbing Property Repairs/ Maintenance Sand l Ballast l Chippings l Cement l Plaster l Plasterboard Decorative stones l Plywood l Sawn & planed timber Fence Panels l Trellis l Fence posts in timber & concrete Decking Railway sleepers l Large range of our own paving slabs Hand & electric tools l Plumbing fittings Above & below ground pipework l Bricks & blocks l Tool hire Free Estimates Golden Hill Park - Freshwater Tel: 01983 756655 Save £££s! Interior/Exterior Decorating Quality Workmanship Lowest Possible Costs Tel 531367 33 Osborne Swiss Cottage Learning Team Volunteer If you have some free time, are good with kids and love history then you could be just who we are looking for! We are seeking friendly and approachable volunteers to help deliver our learning programme for families and schools. Could you help us to bring history to life? For more information please visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/volunteering or call 01793 414752 English Heritage offers a range of volunteering and work placement opportunities - there’s something for everyone. As an English Heritage volunteer you can: Meet new people Receive training and support Be part of a friendly team Indulge in your passion Learn new skills Engage with your local heritage Gain valuable work-related experience So why not volunteer for English Heritage and try something new today? 34 SPOTthe difference COMPETITION PAGE Brought to you by Spot the six differences, fill in the form below and send this page in to us for the chance to win one of this month’s prizes The Walking Festival Tel: 01983 823070 Congratulations to our March winners: £50 Wightlink voucher Sue Palmer - East Cowes A luxury Pedicure at Mad 4 Beauty - Ryde Jenny Bell - Bembridge Easter hand-tied bouquet courtesy of Isle of Wight Flowers Freshwater Jackie Robinson - Shanklin Meal for two courtesy of Driftwood Beach Bar n Grill - Sandown Verity Richards - Seaview The April winners will be announced on 5nd May on Topping in the Morning the island’s favourite 107 & 102 Prizes available are: Send your entries to: IW Beacon Competition, 8-10 Dodnor Park, Newport, Isle of Wight PO30 5XE Isle of Wight Walking Festival A Pair of Walking Boots Courtesy of The Isle of Wight Walking Festival LP's of Seaview Tapas & Wine for two Courtesy of LP's of Seaview to the value of £40. Reservation Required, T & Cs apply. High Street, Seaview. Tel: 07851 268369 CLOSING DATE: 31st May 2015 When sending your entry to us you MUST ensure that you use the correct postage. Terms and conditions available on request. Prizes must be redeemed within 30 days of the draw date. I am happy to be contacted by sponsors: £50 Voucher to be used on any booking to and from the Island For Wightlink's catamaran service from Ryde Pier Head to Portsmouth Harbour. T & Cs apply. Pillar Candle To the value of £12.60 courtesy of IW Natural Must be collected from the workshop by 30th June. 1A Union Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight PO33 2EA. Tel: 07974 246147 Prize Preference: ................................................. .......................(choose one only) Name:................................................................................. Telephone:............................................................................................. Address:............................................................................................................................................................................................ Postcode: .................................................................................... Email: ............................................................................................ 35 36
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