PUNK BAND TO ROCK THE ISLAND
30 November 2007 -
Iconic punk rockers The Sex Pistols are to headline the Saturday night of the Isle of Wight Festival 2008. They will take to the stage at Seaclose Park on 14 June. Earlier this week, The Police were announced as the Sunday night headliners. Tickets go on general sale at 9am on 10 December but some early sales will be available.
Read more about - PUNK BAND TO ROCK THE ISLAND
CATCH OF THE DAY FOR SANDOWN ANGLER
29 November 2007 -
A record-breaking fish has been caught off the Isle of Wight. The 19lb 12oz bass, which is a whopping 36 inches long, was brought ashore at Sandown Pier this week. A full 12oz heavier than the previous record holder, angler Steve Cave’s catch is the UK’s largest landed bass.
Read more about - CATCH OF THE DAY FOR SANDOWN ANGLER
IS IT YOU?
29 November 2007 -
An Island resident’s scooped thousands of pounds in November’s Premium Bond Draw. The bond was bought in May 2003.
Read more about - IS IT YOU?
ISLAND ARTWORK AT THE SEAT OF POWER
29 November 2007 -
Work by Island artists affected by autism is to go on show at Westminster. The exhibition has been arranged by the Isle of Wight’s MP Andrew Turner (pictured). Paintings, sculpture, furniture, drawings, photography and poetry, created by autistic children and their parents and siblings, are to be displayed in the Upper Waiting Hall of the House of Commons, between 3 and 7 December.
Read more about - ISLAND ARTWORK AT THE SEAT OF POWER
HIDDEN FABERGE FRAME RAISES £THOUSANDS
29 November 2007 -
A small Faberge picture frame has raised £9,600 at auction, after it was discovered during a routine valuation day on the Isle of Wight. Hidden for years in a bank vault, it was among a collection brought to the Ryde Castle hotel. Bonhams’ Tim Squire Sanders says, “I suddenly noticed a very simple jade frame which was beautifully made with a row of seed pearls around the aperture. The lady who had brought the box in couldn’t remember seeing the frame before. When I told her that the marks on the back and the quality of the piece indicated that it was very likely to have been made by the Russian jewellers, Faberge, she was amazed.” The frame was included in the firm’s specialist Russian sale in London, earlier this week.
Read more about - HIDDEN FABERGE FRAME RAISES £THOUSANDS
BUSINESSES LINE UP FOR ISLAND ACCOLADES
26 November 2007 -
Well done to all the winners of the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards 2007! The IW Beacon missed out on the accolade for best Small Business, to the fast-growing Island Day Nursery, which now has bases in East Cowes, Sandown and Newport. Alum Bay’s Needles Park was awarded Best Business in the Community Award and Newchurch-based Amazon World was handed the Tourism and Leisure Award. The night’s big winner was AJ Wells and Son, which won three awards including Business of the Year. The awards were handed out at Cowes Yacht Haven, on Friday night.
Read more about - BUSINESSES LINE UP FOR ISLAND ACCOLADES
WILL YOU VOTE BEMBRIDGE FOR PEOPLE’S MILLIONS?
26 November 2007 -
We are being asked to support an Isle of Wight community project as it bids for some of ITV’s People’s Millions. The Bembridge Friendship Circle will have a starring role on Meridian Tonight, on Tuesday evening, to ask for your votes. They could win it a share of lottery cash and only one of the projects featured will be in the running. The organisation wants to use the money to buy and convert a new minibus, so it can be used for local children, the elderly and sports clubs, among a number of schemes.
Read more about - WILL YOU VOTE BEMBRIDGE FOR PEOPLE’S MILLIONS?
FREE LECTURE REVEALS GIPSY MOTH’S SECRETS
26 November 2007 -
The UK Sailing Academy’s David Green will reveal the details of how the round-the-world-yacht Gipsy Moth IV was restored, on Tuesday evening. The 54ft ketch went on to circumnavigation the globe, some 40 years after she’d completed the journey for yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester. At Newport’s Medina Theatre, at 7pm, the Hampshire and Wight Trust for Maritime Archaeology will host the free public lecture.
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POLICE TO HEADLINE 2008 IW FESTIVAL
26 November 2007 -
The Police will headline the Isle of Wight Festival 2008. The band will take to the Seaclose Park stage on Sunday 15 June, to close the 2008 event. The Isle of Wight Music Festival scooped the Best Major UK Festival at this year's UK Festival Awards. IW Festival Promoter John Giddings said, "It's a coup to get The Police. We're very happy to have the biggest tour of the last two years stopping by the Isle of Wight." The Police will return to Europe in 2008, and the Isle of Wight performance will be their only UK festival show.
Read more about - POLICE TO HEADLINE 2008 IW FESTIVAL
ISLAND ROTARY CLUB SUPPORTS CYCLONE-HIT BANGLADESH
25 November 2007 -
Thousands were killed and tens of thousands affected when, earlier this month, a devastating cyclone swept across Bangladesh. An aid effort is being supported by Island’s Rotary Club and the fundraisers need our help.
Read more about - ISLAND ROTARY CLUB SUPPORTS CYCLONE-HIT BANGLADESH
FESTIVAL ACT TO BE UNVEILED
25 November 2007 -
The first act of the Isle of Wight Music Festival 2008 is due to be unveiled, on Monday morning. The performer(s) will close next year’s Seaclose Park event, which was named Best Major Festival of 2007 at the UK Festival Awards. Visit the IW Beacon Online and watch this space…!
Read more about - FESTIVAL ACT TO BE UNVEILED
SANDOWN'S BONFIRE NIGHT EVENT REVIEW
25 November 2007 -
For a report on Sandown's Bonfire Night carnival and celebrations visit:
http://www
Read more about - SANDOWN'S BONFIRE NIGHT EVENT REVIEW
PLAYERS WANTED AT SANDOWN AND LAKE YFC
25 November 2007 -
Fancy a game of footy with Sandown & Lake YFC? Established in 1973, the club is looking for 6 to 7 year old boys and girls, in school years 2 and 3. Training is getting underway for the 2008/2009 Sunday Youth League football season. It takes place on Monday evenings, between 6 and 7pm. For more information, telephone Jamie or Karen Norris on 01983 867524.
Read more about - PLAYERS WANTED AT SANDOWN AND LAKE YFC
BUSINESSES LINE UP FOR CHAMBER AWARDS
22 November 2007 -
The IW Beacon will be among the organisations being represented at the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards for Excellence, which are being handed out on Friday night. The magazine is in the running for the Small Business Award. A sparkling ceremony will take place at Cowes Yacht Haven. Cowes firm Wireless and Cellular Approvals and Alum Bay’s The Needles Park are up for three awards each.
Read more about - BUSINESSES LINE UP FOR CHAMBER AWARDS
FESTIVITIES FROM YESTERYEAR AT OSBORNE HOUSE
22 November 2007 -
Osborne House hosts a traditional Victorian Christmas, this weekend. Side-shows, travelling theatre and carol singing will entertain visitors to Queen Victoria’s former home. The house itself is dressed for Christmas. You may also meet a pair of singing chimney sweeps, or even the Queen herself.
Read more about - FESTIVITIES FROM YESTERYEAR AT OSBORNE HOUSE
WIGHT SATIN AT ISLE OF WIGHT ATTRACTION
22 November 2007 -
Fresh from their television appearance for the BBC’s Children in Need appeal (pictured), the Isle of Wight’s Wight Satin Ladies’ Barbershop Chorus are to perform at Osborne House, this weekend. They are taking part in the attraction’s Victorian Christmas weekend.
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IW AUTHOR'S MAKING OF THE WIGHT SIGNING
22 November 2007 -
The IW Beacon’s John Medland will be signing extracts from his new book which traces the history of the Isle of Wight, on Saturday. The Making of the Wight runs from the Ice Age to the space-rocket programme and is a collection of the events that have helped shape the Island and its people. Also containing extracts from the Beacon’s ‘Island Story’ series, it hit the shelves of Island bookshops on Thursday. John Medland (pictured) says, “It’s been a real pleasure writing this book, discovering some new and fascinating insights into Island history and meeting such interesting people while carrying out my research”. He will be at the County Press Shop in Newport, between 10am-12pm.
Read more about - IW AUTHOR'S MAKING OF THE WIGHT SIGNING
FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR "WORLD'S SMALLEST PADDLE STEAMER"
22 November 2007 -
An unusual vessel has steamed her way to the Isle of Wight. A 9 tonne pleasure boat, licensed for just 12 people, is moored at Island Harbour (between East Cowes and Newport, on the River Medina). Monarch is being lovingly restored by her two new owners, who have brought her to the Island from Kent. Reputed to be the world’s smallest passenger Paddle Steamer, she is just 42ft long. Joint owner Matthew O’Crowley told the IW Beacon online that his plans include private cruises, appearances at Cowes Week, and a Christmas Grotto. Monarch will be officially launched in March.
Read more about - FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR "WORLD'S SMALLEST PADDLE STEAMER"
WINTER WONDERLAND OF MUSIC
22 November 2007 -
The Island Concert Band will be performing a Winter Wonderland of music in St Thomas Church in Newport (pictured), on Saturday. The concert starts at 7.30pm and there will be tickets on the door.
Read more about - WINTER WONDERLAND OF MUSIC
CHURCHES LAUNCH MESSAGE OF HOPE
22 November 2007 -
Island churches are among those taking part in the launch of Hope 2008. The initiative is a bid to unite religious communities across the UK and will see key events taking place throughout next year. On Friday, the Isle of Wight Gospel Choir will gather for the Big Launch. It takes place at Carisbrooke High School at 7:30pm.
Read more about - CHURCHES LAUNCH MESSAGE OF HOPE
THREE EDUCATION PROPOSALS WILL GO TO CONSULTATION
22 November 2007 -
Public consultation on three options for the future of Island education will start in the New Year. Isle of Wight Councillors last night ratified a decision by the cabinet to develop three Options 1,2 and 3.
Read more about - THREE EDUCATION PROPOSALS WILL GO TO CONSULTATION
END OF THE ROAD FOR UNDERCLIFF DRIVE
21 November 2007 -
It has cost £2.9m pounds and a number of high profile jobs, but the IW Council’s scheme to repair and shore-up Undercliff Drive was abandoned, on Tuesday night. Cabinet members met at County Hall to consider the future of the controversial project. Council Leader David Pugh had earlier admitted there were concerns over the way money was being spent on the project. Instead, plans for an inland route through Whitwell will now be revisited and that road will be upgraded. Councillors say they will also work the Department of Transport, which had originally agreed to fund the Undercliff Drive Scheme, to consider what to do next with the Island’s southern coastal route.
Read more about - END OF THE ROAD FOR UNDERCLIFF DRIVE
INFLUENTIAL COMMITTEE POST FOR IW MP
21 November 2007 -
The Island’s MP Andrew Turner again has a seat on the Executive of the influential 1922 Committee. The group of backbench Conservatives keep the party’s leadership informed of the mood of backbenchers. Mr Turner was originally elected to the Committee shortly after his election in 2001, earlier in his parliamentary career than any other Conservative MP.
Read more about - INFLUENTIAL COMMITTEE POST FOR IW MP
YARMOUTH PIER TO CLOSE FOR RESTORATION WORKS TO BEGIN
21 November 2007 -
Yarmouth Pier will close on 3 December, for restoration. Gribble worms have been attacking the historic structure and now the 54 piles which support it need to be replaced. Contractors Walcon Marine Ltd will undertake the work, using large engineering barges. Vessels are requested to keep well clear of the area. Harbour Master Chris Lisher said, “Thanks to the Heritage Lottery Fund and the generosity of local and mainland individuals and companies, the work on the pier can now commence”. The pier will be re-opened by broadcaster Alan Titchmarsh, on the morning of 26 April.
Read more about - YARMOUTH PIER TO CLOSE FOR RESTORATION WORKS TO BEGIN
EDUCATION MEETINGS AT COUNTY HALL TONIGHT AND TOMORROW
20 November 2007 -
A protest is expected to take place as members of the Isle of Wight Council's Cabinet meet to consider the future of education on the Isle of Wight, tonight. A group that is demanding better consultation will be accompanied by a samba band, this evening.
Read more about - EDUCATION MEETINGS AT COUNTY HALL TONIGHT AND TOMORROW
UNDERCLIFF DRIVE SCHEME BACK TO CABINET
20 November 2007 -
The final decision on the future of the Undercliff Drive road scheme will be made by the IW Council's Cabinet tonight. Members meet at 6pm, at County Hall. One of the options being considered is for a newly improved road that could run through Whitwell, linking southern areas of the Island. Compulsory purchase orders could also be abandoned, alongside a proposal to shelve the controversial scheme to repair and upgrade the landslide-hit road. It follows controversy surrounding the way the contract to upgrade the route was awarded to the firm High Point Rendel and the departure of a number of high profile council officers. A full report on the investigation into their conduct is due on 29 November.
Read more about - UNDERCLIFF DRIVE SCHEME BACK TO CABINET
IW EVENTS MARK ANTI-BULLY WEEK
17 November 2007 -
The Isle of Wight is marking anti-bullying week, from Monday with the start of consultation on a new anti-bullying strategy. The IW Council’s proposals are available online at at EduWight, which can accessed via iwight.com. The consultation runs until 21 December. Anti-Bullying Week is organised by the national body Anti-Bullying Alliance. Across the week, events include a focus group at Sandown High School on Wednesday, giving students the chance to talk to the experts abut bullying during the journey to school. Isle of Wight police officers and PCSOs will be deployed throughout the week. On 23 November, children across the Island will mark 'Blue Friday', by swapping their uniforms for blue clothes.
Read more about - IW EVENTS MARK ANTI-BULLY WEEK
SERVICE TO MARK ISLAND'S WORST AIR CRASH
17 November 2007 -
A special service will mark 50 years since a flying boat crashed on the Isle of Wight, shortly after taking off in Southampton water. More than forty people died when the craft came down in a quarry near Brook, after developing engine trouble. A memorial takes place at St Mary’s Church in Brook, on Sunday, conducted by the Archdeacon of the Isle of Wight, the Ven Caroline Baston.
Read more about - SERVICE TO MARK ISLAND'S WORST AIR CRASH
ALL WIGHT ON CHILDERN IN NEED NIGHT
17 November 2007 -
The Isle of Wight’s Wight Satin Ladies’ Barbershop Chorus have played a starring role in the BBC’s Children In Need fundraising event. The group travelled to Milestones Museum in Basingstoke to sing their specially written song Pudsey Bear, on Friday. Chorus director Nick Frampton was interviewed by BBC South’s Georgie Palmer. The group has raised more than £2000 for the charity and has been fundraising for Children In Need since July. Efforts have included touring the Island in a vintage bus and singing on Wightlink Ferries and at Gunwharf Quays.
Read more about - ALL WIGHT ON CHILDERN IN NEED NIGHT
WIGHT SATIN “CHEQUE IN” TO CHILDREN IN NEED
15 November 2007 -
Isle of Wight singing group Wight Satin is preparing for an appearance on the BBC’s Children in Need programme, on Friday night. The ladies are travelling to Basingstoke and will be warming up for their starring role by singing on Wightlink’s Fishbourne to Portsmouth ferry crossing. They have been fundraising for the annual appeal since July and chorus director Nick Frampton has even written a special song, called "Pudsey Bear", which the group will perform. They have raised at least £2000.
Read more about - WIGHT SATIN “CHEQUE IN” TO CHILDREN IN NEED
TRAVEL COMPLICATIONS AT LYMINGTON
15 November 2007 -
Train service restrictions at Lymington, affecting Wightlink passengers travelling to and from Yarmouth, were due to be lifted on Sunday. The link into the town has been closed but was due to reopen this weekend. Meanwhile, work is ongoing in Bridge Road, where a flood protection scheme is being introduced. Diversions are in place.
Read more about - TRAVEL COMPLICATIONS AT LYMINGTON
FUNDS RAISED AT DINOSAUIR ISLE
15 November 2007 -
Sandown’s Dinosaur Isle museum hosts a fundraising coffee morning, on Saturday, on behalf IW Council Chairman Cllr Roger Mazillius. Entry is free during the event, which runs between 10am and 1pm. It is in support of the Chairman's official charities: MacMillan Nurses at the Earl Mountbatten Hospice in Newport, and Cowes’ Island Youth Water Activities Centre.
Read more about - FUNDS RAISED AT DINOSAUIR ISLE
50 YEARS ON: THE FLYING BOAT CRASH IS REMEMBERED
14 November 2007 -
Fifty years ago today a plane crashed at Chessell, claiming the lives of 45 people. On 15 November 1957 a flying boat, carrying 50 passengers and eight crew from Southampton to Las Palmas (via Madeira and Lisbon), developed engine problems shortly after take-off. Shortly before 11pm, it crashed into a quarry at Brook. Just 14 people were dragged from the wreckage before it became an inferno. It remains the Isle of Wight’s worst air disaster.
Read more about - 50 YEARS ON: THE FLYING BOAT CRASH IS REMEMBERED
SATURDAY GIG TO RAISE CASH FOR HOSPICE
14 November 2007 -
Four Island bands will take to the stage, this weekend, to raise funds for Newport’s Earl Mountbatten Hospice. The Contra Blues Band, The Arrivals, Nick Cane and The L & M Group will all appear at Ryde Theatre, on Saturday.
Read more about - SATURDAY GIG TO RAISE CASH FOR HOSPICE
SERVICE WILL MARK THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE CRASH
14 November 2007 -
Police inspector Dennis Padwick (PICTURED) was one of the first to reach the crash scene. He helped relatives identify bodies in a temporary mortuary. He says, “I was at the scene within half an hour of the crash, and the plane was still burning fiercely. We set up a temporary mortuary at Albany and they kept bringing these bodies in – I thought they’d never stop. I still remember the names of all the dead.
Read more about - SERVICE WILL MARK THE ANNIVERSARY OF THE CRASH
FUTURE OF UNDERCLIFF DRIVE SCHEME NOW LOOKS UNCERTAIN
12 November 2007 -
A newly improved road could run through Whitwell, linking southern areas of the Isle of Wight. It is one of a number of options being presented to members of the IW Council’s Cabinet, when they meet on 20 November. Compulsory purchase orders could also be abandoned, alongside a proposal to abandon the controversial scheme to repair and upgrade Undercliff Drive. The future of the road affected by landslides now looks uncertain, following controversy surrounding the way the contract to upgrade the route was awarded to the firm High Point Rendel and the departure of a number of high profile council officers. £2.9million in Government funds has already been spent on the scheme and one CPO has been agreed with a local landowner.
Read more about - FUTURE OF UNDERCLIFF DRIVE SCHEME NOW LOOKS UNCERTAIN
YOUTH ELECTIONS PROMPT DOZENS TO RUN
12 November 2007 -
The race is on for places on the IW Youth Council. Dozens of young people
Read more about - YOUTH ELECTIONS PROMPT DOZENS TO RUN
CRAFT FAIR WITH JUST SIX WEEKS TILL CHRISTMAS
12 November 2007 -
Shalfleet School holds its biggest ever annual craft fair, this Friday and Saturday. Paintings, sculptures, jewellery and local artists will all be exhibited. It is not too late to book your stall at the event. Contact Juliet on 01983 760167 for more details. The fair takes place between 6.30-8.30pm on Friday and 12-4pm on Saturday.
Read more about - CRAFT FAIR WITH JUST SIX WEEKS TILL CHRISTMAS
BACK TO THE CHALK BOARD AS EDUCATION PLANS ARE RECONSIDERED
11 November 2007 -
New options for the future of education on the Isle of Wight are to be considered by IW Councillors. After months of public outcry, over rumours of the planned closure of some Island high schools and plans to retain an extra year at middle school, 4 proposals will now be on the agenda when the IW Council meets, later this month. They include the current 3-tier scheme, plus alternatives involving primary and secondary level education.
Read more about - BACK TO THE CHALK BOARD AS EDUCATION PLANS ARE RECONSIDERED
SOCIETY FOR THE BLIND CALLS FOR VOLUNTEERS
11 November 2007 -
Volunteers are wanted by the Isle of Wight Society for the Blind, which is holding an open day on Monday. Companions to read, write letters and chat with some of the Island’s blind residents are being sought. You can find out more at a volunteer recruitment day, between 2 and 4pm and 7 and 9pm, at the society’s HQ in Millbrooke House, 137 Carisbrooke Road, in Newport. Or visit the website www.iwsightconcern.org.uk.
Read more about - SOCIETY FOR THE BLIND CALLS FOR VOLUNTEERS
GOING IT ALONE FOR ENTERPRISE WEEK
11 November 2007 -
Enterprise Week gets underway on Monday. The 4th annual series of events are designed to inspire people, aged between 14 and 30 years old, to go self-employed and get into business. Wednesday marks Women’s Enterprise Day and Social Enterprise Day take place on Thursday.
Read more about - GOING IT ALONE FOR ENTERPRISE WEEK
ISLAND PREPARES FOR REMEMBRANCE DAY
08 November 2007 -
The Isle of Wight will remember, this weekend. Services of Remembrance are to take place across the Island, on the 11 November. Newport’s St Thomas' Church will lead the Remembrance Day services. HM Lord-Lieutenant Major General Martin White, the High Sheriff Lt Col David Langford, the Chair of the IW Council Cllr Roger Mazillius and members of the Newport branch of the Royal British Legion will attend. A 2 minute silence will be observed at 11am and wreaths will be laid.
Read more about - ISLAND PREPARES FOR REMEMBRANCE DAY
DIANA WREATH TO BE LAID
08 November 2007 -
Two Ryde High School students will mark Remembrance Day by laying the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Wreath, in memory of those who have served in conflict. Hazel Hebditch and Fiona Clarke are both sixth form students. They will lay the wreath at the Ryde Town Hall cenotaph, after the town’s annual Remembrance Day parade. The march will start at 9.20am, at Station Street in Ryde, on Sunday. A service will also be held at All Saints' Church.
Read more about - DIANA WREATH TO BE LAID
EDUCATION PLANS REACH SCHOOL PUPILS
08 November 2007 -
IW Council representatives will be visiting West Wight Middle School in Freshwater, on Friday, to ask pupils what they think of plans to reorganise education here. Year 6 pupils will be asked their opinions on plans for year 9 to remain in middle schools. They would be the first year affected by the changes, if they are given the go ahead. Council Leader David Pugh has said that no final decisions have yet been made on the controversial options on the table to try to improve results on the Isle of Wight. The matter is to be discussed at County Hall later this month.
Read more about - EDUCATION PLANS REACH SCHOOL PUPILS
XMAS FESTIVITIES ARRIVE AT OSBORNE HOUSE
08 November 2007 -
Christmas has arrived at Osborne House in East Cowes. The annual guided tours, showing life in a Royal household during the festive season, get underway on Saturday. Queen Victoria’s former dining table will be set with wobbling jellies and elaborate architectural cakes (PICTURED). Christmas trees dressed in the style favoured by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, garlands of dried herbs, ferns and arrangements of old fashioned roses and violets will add to the festive atmosphere. Tours run until 6 January, between 10am-4pm.
Read more about - XMAS FESTIVITIES ARRIVE AT OSBORNE HOUSE
MORE WARNINGS FOR YARMOUTH/LYMINGTON FERRY PASSENGERS
08 November 2007 -
Passengers travelling between Yarmouth and Lymington, on Wightlink's car ferry service, are again facing delays because of work underway in the New Forest town. Bridge Road is closed for flood protection works this weekend.
Read more about - MORE WARNINGS FOR YARMOUTH/LYMINGTON FERRY PASSENGERS
DISABILITY AWARDS NOMINATIONS CALLED FOR
08 November 2007 -
Drive forward the disability and equality agenda - to be nominated for the Island's Disability Awards 2007. Organisers hope the awards will celebrate individual and
Read more about - DISABILITY AWARDS NOMINATIONS CALLED FOR
SCANDINAVIAN VISIT TO THE ISLAND
07 November 2007 -
Teachers from the Isle of Wight are swapping skills with staff from a school in the Norwegian capital, Oslo. Nearly 40 representatives from Skoyen School are visiting Trinity, Ventnor and Downside Middle Schools, on Thursday.
Read more about - SCANDINAVIAN VISIT TO THE ISLAND
TRIPLE WHAMMY FOR IW FESTIVALS
07 November 2007 -
The Isle of Wight’s setting the tone when it comes to summer festivals. Both of the Island’s big events of 2007 have won awards. Robin Hill’s Bestival has picked up Best Medium Sized Festival, at the UK Festival Awards, for the third year running. The September 2007 event saw The Chemical Brothers, Beastie Boys, Primal Scream, Madness and Gossip hit the stage. Tickets are already on sale for Bestival 2008, which will be held from 5 September.
Read more about - TRIPLE WHAMMY FOR IW FESTIVALS
PEOPLE'S MILLIONS FOR BEMBRIDGE COMMUNITY GROUP?
05 November 2007 -
An Island community group is preparing to appear on television, to bid for charity cash. The Bembridge Friendship Circle is to feature on ITV’s People’s Millions. The organisation is hoping to win £70,000, to buy and convert a minibus. It has had its old one for decades and wants a new vehicle to be used by local groups as diverse as sea-scouts, primary school pupils and senior citizens. Filming takes place this week and you will be able to see the group (and cast your vote) on 26 November.
Read more about - PEOPLE'S MILLIONS FOR BEMBRIDGE COMMUNITY GROUP?
BEST FEET FORWARD FOR YOUTH FOOTBALL
05 November 2007 -
Young footballers in Sandown and Lake need your help. The local team wants managers or coaches to help out, during the 2008/2009 season. It is also your chance to gain an FA level 1 coaching course, paid for by Sandown and Lake YFC which was established in 1973. So if you can use your feet to help young people, aged from 8 to 15 years old, contact Jamie Norris on 01983 867524.
Read more about - BEST FEET FORWARD FOR YOUTH FOOTBALL
ISLAND WHEELCHAIR MISSION TO GHANA
05 November 2007 -
IW Councillor Charlie Hancock’s accompanying his wife, occupational therapist Mary Hancock, to Africa on a charity mission. The East Cowes couple are among those distributing wheelchairs to disabled people living in the industrial port of Tema, in Ghana. Refurbished by Parkhurst inmates, 160 chairs were shipped to Ghana to await the team. The mission has been organised by the Christian charity Through the Roof and is part of the Wheels for the World project.
Read more about - ISLAND WHEELCHAIR MISSION TO GHANA
AWARD-WINNING FIREWORKS FIRM FOR YARMOUTH CELEBRATIONS
04 November 2007 -
The award-winning firm Pains Fireworks will help Yarmouth Carnival Committee’s Bonfire Night celebrations go off with a bang, on 5 November. A party in The Square, a Guy competition, a torchlight parade to The Common where a beacon will be lit and a fireworks display to round off the festivities, will mark Guy Fawkes Night. The event gets underway in The Square at 6pm, with the Ryde Extreme Performers and the Fat Samba Band. At 6.30pm, the Commodore of the Royal Solent Yacht Club Peter Jennings will judge the Guys. Flaming torches will be on sale for the torchlight parade to The Common, where the beacon will be lit at 7.15pm, followed by fireworks presented by a company that picked up an accolade at 2007 L'International Des Feux firework festival in Montreal, Canada. Organisers are promising hot soup, mulled wine, hot chestnuts and traditional toffee apples. Yarmouth Fire Brigade and St. John Ambulance will be in attendance. Donations will be much appreciated.
Read more about - AWARD-WINNING FIREWORKS FIRM FOR YARMOUTH CELEBRATIONS
ECO ISLAND IDEAS TO BE UNVEILED BY COUNCIL
04 November 2007 -
Cow-waste to run buses, single-lane roads (with rights of way for cyclists and equestrians) and tidal energy exported to the mainland. All are being floated by the IW Council, in a bid to make the Island among the greenest places in the world. Leader Cllr David Pugh has told the BBC and the national press that he is also in talks with the architect behind China’s eco-village project and hopes to make the Island a sustainable place to live. But the plans come just months after a wind-farm scheme for Wellow was rejected by planning councillors at County Hall.
Read more about - ECO ISLAND IDEAS TO BE UNVEILED BY COUNCIL
INTERNATIONAL LINKS HELP SCHOOL WIN AWARD
04 November 2007 -
Carisbrooke High School has been rewarded for its work forging links with schools across the globe. The school is one of nearly 450 in the UK to be handed the International School Award 2007. Among their projects, Carisbrooke staff and pupils have been working with counterparts at Crystal Point School in South Africa, helping introduce PE to students there. Island pupils have visited Poland, Estonia, Germany, Spain, France, the Czech Republic and Indonesia and lessons as diverse as art and food technology have been used to remind pupils of the international community.
Read more about - INTERNATIONAL LINKS HELP SCHOOL WIN AWARD
TEXT SCHEME WARNS “UVE BEEN SPTTED”
04 November 2007 -
Island trouble makers are to be texted, warning them to stay out of trouble. CCTV monitoring will pick up problems and those being filmed will be sent a text, warning them they’re on camera. Operation Viper was launched by Hampshire and Isle of Wight police on Friday. The crack down on drink related crime will see crime and trouble fighting agencies working together. The operation will also see the use of drugs dogs, checks on licensed premises and the right to ban over-16s from a location for up to 48 hours, to prevent alcohol-related crime.
Read more about - TEXT SCHEME WARNS “UVE BEEN SPTTED”
SOMERTON CO-OP CLOSES ITS DOORS
04 November 2007 -
A Cowes grocery shop closed its doors for the final time, this weekend. The Co-op’s
Read more about - SOMERTON CO-OP CLOSES ITS DOORS
SPORTING SUCCESS FOR CARISBROOKE SCHOOL
04 November 2007 -
The Carisbrooke School Sports Partnership, which develops and supports PE and sport in nearly 40 schools from East Cowes to the West Wight, is celebrating success. In a national survey, rating the number of pupils taking part in 2 hours of school sport each week, the partnership achieved 88%. It has beaten both the overall national average and the average for secondary schools.
Read more about - SPORTING SUCCESS FOR CARISBROOKE SCHOOL
NEW FERRY FOR YARMOUTH LYMINGTON ROUTE
02 November 2007 -
Cross-Solent ferry firm Wightlink has ordered a third new ferry for its Yarmouth to Lymington route. It comes despite fears that it and two other new vessels will cause environmental damage and problems for the Royal Lymington Yacht Club, because they are bigger than the ones currently serving the route. Wightlink says it needs to replace the existing boats for compliance reasons and claims the new vessels are “marginally larger…able to carry around 15 more cars and have been specifically designed to operate within the confines of the existing channel in the Lymington River. They will be much more fuel efficient, offer greater flexibility, be more manoeuvrable and have attractive modern passenger facilities on board." The boats will be introduced next year.
Read more about - NEW FERRY FOR YARMOUTH LYMINGTON ROUTE
FORMER IW RADIO PRESENTER IN SEXIEST MEN LIST
02 November 2007 -
A 23 year old Islander's beaten actor Rhys Ifans and footballer Ryan Giggs to become the 40th sexiest man in Wales. The Red Dragon FM evening DJ Allan Lake formerly worked at Isle of Wight Radio. TV presenter Gethin Owen topped last month's poll.
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ANNIVERSARY OF DAMIEN
02 November 2007 -
Another year has passed since the disappearance of Cowes teenager Damien Nettles. He went missing on 2 November 1996, after a night out with friends. He was seen on Cowes High St and caught on security camera at Yorkie's Chip Shop. He was aged 16 years old when he disappeared. Images of Damien are to be shown in GPs surgeries and hospitals across England in a new initiative. Police say they are also still trying identify some of the men pictured on the chip shop's CCTV footage.
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BLUE FLAG WITHIN REACH AGAIN?
01 November 2007 -
Ventnor is, this month, expected to begin the Blue Flag application process. The seaside town controversially lost the international award, because it did not meet requirements for a full-time paid lifeguard service. Instead, a local beach safety group was providing cover. In April, the Isle of Wight Council agreed to fund lifeguards but the decision came too late for the 2007 season. The Mayor of Ventnor, Isle of Wight Councillor Susan Scoccia, says achieving a prestigious Blue Flag for 2008 is one of her goals.
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POSTS MYSTERY STUMPS ISLAND ARCHAEOLOGISTS
01 November 2007 -
It’s a mystery that you could help solve. The Isle of Wight Industrial Archaeology Society is trying to find out what a row of wooden posts on Spring Vale beach, near Seaview, were once used for. They are seen occasionally 100m out, parallel to the shore line. Recently uncovered, they are substantial, evenly spaced and stretch for about a quarter of a kilometre.
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MAGICAL NIGHT FOR NITON B AND B
01 November 2007 -
And the best Bed and Breakfast in the south-east is….Niton’s The Enchanted Manor. The 5-star rated B&B, at St Catherine’s Point, was built in 1838 and became seven boutique suites in 2006. Owners Ric and Maggie Hilton, who formerly ran a tea shop in Godshill, were presented with their Tourism ExSEllence Award by broadcaster Jenny Powell, at a ceremony at Wentworth Golf Club in Surrey. The Enchanted Manor will now represent the region in the national Enjoy England Awards for Excellence, in 2008.
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FARMING METHODS TAUGHT ON ISLAND
01 November 2007 -
An organisation committed to sustainable farming methods is holding free workshops for the Island’s farmers and growers. The first of the courses, funded by the Environment Agency, will take place this month. On 9 November, nutrient and manure management will be the focus at a workshop in Limerstone. On 21 November, it’s Soil Management in Freshwater. For more information, contact the The Isle of Wight Land Care Project by calling Rowan Adams on 01983 298098, emailing rowan@island2000.org.uk, or visiting landcare.island2000.org.uk
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