The Rss Feed for the Fangle website news en-GB Fangle Content Management System v1.0 http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Isle-of-Wight-pop-Festival-News.aspx One of the most significant London bands to emerge in recent years, The Rakes are playing fourth on the Friday night billing which already includes The Prodigy, Placebo and Goldfrapp.\r\n\r\nPrimal Scream will be performing as the penultimate act on Saturday 10th June. The Kooks are also set to play on Saturday at this years festival. They will be joined by the Editors who have just completed three headline tours.\r\n\r\nAt a recent public meeting called by Fairlee Councillor Dawn Cousins there were no calls to prevent the Festival but a number of calls for the festival site to be moved from Seaclose to a more appropriate site. The growing numbers of people coming, tripling in three years and new drinks licensing from this year were cited as causes of concern. Fri, 24 Feb 2006 16:07:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Get-Your-Share-Of-The-Help-We-Provide.aspx Each month, Steve Reading, Micro Business Advisor with Business Link Wessex on the Island, provides some useful tips for local businesses. Ever thought of taking a few minutes to work out what works for your business and what could be developed? \r\n\r\nEffective marketing means developing your ideas and ensuring that you meet, or beat, the expectations of your customers. Knowledge of what customers want to buy, pricing it correctly and developing cost effective ways of telling them about your business is a good recipe for growth or improved profits.\r\n\r\nBut marketing is not just about promotion. One solution can be to improve the skills of your business. Training can bring\r\nhuge benefits so that you grow your business by marketing your products and services more effectively. If you need help identifying and prioritising the skills needs of your business, we can make life easier through a free skills review. We will help you prioritise your skills needs and provide you with access to a wide range of resources and solutions to meet your particular needs. By working with you and your training provider we ensure that you get the training that meets your needs. If you employ 2 people or more then you may be eligible for grants towards the cost of training.\r\n\r\nWe believe that marketing is an important aspect of your business which is why we are providing an Easy Steps Marketing book, worth £12.99, for free along with free Marketing for Profit seminars at Ryde Theatre (9th March) and at the Quay Arts Centre (25th April). To ensure that you get your book and share of the help and advice we provide call our Customer Connections Team on 08454 58 85 58 or visit us at www.businesslinkwessex.co.uk If you want an impartial view of your business why not book into a local Business Advice Clinic? This facility offers research for further information, referrals to internal and external contacts for assistance, constructive analysis of your current and future plans. This free 1-2-1 session will provide you with a \\"reality check\\" for your current plans and ideas. \r\n\r\nAnd finally, don’t forget our business clubs which provide informal networking opportunities. The next one is at The Blacksmiths Arms, Newport (Tuesday 28th March, 6.30pm) but we also be meeting at Bugle Inn, Brading. Check next month’s edition for further details.\r\n Fri, 24 Feb 2006 16:36:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/BESTIVAL-2006---1ST-ANNOUNCEMENT---23-Mar-06.aspx • Bestival curator Rob da Bank announces the Saturday night headliner as Pet Shop Boys. A UK festival exclusive! \r\n\r\n• 8 stages of boutique festival fun - live music, top DJs, cabaret & super strange happenings. Supported by BBC Radio 1 \r\n\r\n• Other live acts include: Devendra Banhart, The Stranglers, The Fall, King Creosote, Jamie T, Cagedbaby, Kid Creole and The Coconuts, Amadou & Mariam, Nathan Fake, The Young Knives, The Sunshine Underground, Kanda Bongo Man, Planet Pendulum, Switch, The Boy Least Likely To, Mara Carlyle, James Yorkston and The Athletes, Fence Collective, The Aliens, My Robot Friend, Electronic Elvis, Kitty Daisy & Lewis, Jeremy Warmsley, Mr Hudson and the Library, Vetiver, Klaxons, Tunng, Jeggsy Dodd, Eberg, Electronic Elvis, Magnetophone with Sonic Boom and Kwaing Creasite, Get Cape.Wear Cape.Fly plus Young Blood Brass Band AND MUCH MUCH MORE TO STILL BE ANNOUNCED…… \r\n\r\n• Plus a host of the finest DJs: DJ Marky, DJ Yoda, Annie Mac, Cosmic Fury (Tom Middleton & Fred Deakin), Erol Alkan, DJ Zinc, Justin Robertson, Mary Anne Hobbs, Lindstrom & Prins Thomas, Touche, Jazzanova, Rob da Bank, Flower Power (Ibiza), Chris Coco, The Black Dog, Mixmaster Morris, Digital Mystikz, Skream, Kode 9, Various Production, DJ Derek, Gaz\\'s Rockin Blues, Quiet Village, Sonic Boom, plus much more to come... \r\n\r\n• Hosted by those saucy masters of ceremonies The Cuban Brothers – playing live and unadulterated \r\n\r\n• And the Biggest Fancy Dress celebration ever goes Circus theme! \r\n\r\n• Plus many more bands plus two headliners still to be announced!\r\n\r\nWhat a year it\\'s been for Bestival! First we won two awards - the Most Innovative and Best Medium Sized Festival at the UK Festival Awards - that sent us nuts! Then, when our heads finally stopped spinning, we got stuck into our preview parties at London\\'s KOKO. And now we\\'re unleashing the beautiful beast that is \\'Bestival the 3rd\\' – yes indeed its our third jaunt across the Solent to our favourite park homestead Robin Hill on 8th, 9th and 10th September. It may be the last festival of the summer season but don\\'t hang around as these hot cakes are flying as Rob da Bank reveals the first cheeky insight into the weird and wonderful world of Bestival.\r\n\r\nFirstly, we are over the moon to announce that the legendary Pet Shop Boys are headlining Saturday night at Bestival! Genius! Since scoring their first number one hit with \\"West End girls\\" 20 years ago, Pet Shop Boys have gone on to become the most successful pop duo in history with 36 top 20 hits and ten top ten albums. Not only are they fabulously cool, they have after all collaborated with the likes of Dusty Springfield, David Bowie, Tina Turner, Liza Minnelli, Yoko Ono and Madonna, but this is their only UK Festival appearance in this their 20th year at the top! \r\n\r\nAnother of this year\\'s main stage marvels is Devendra Banhart. Indulge in beautifully crafted U.S folk, hippy murmurings plus beads and joss sticks from Rob da Banks favourite live artist of 2005.\r\n\r\nThe Stranglers need little introduction and Bestival is chuffed to have one of the U.K\\'s greatest acts ever at our summer shindig – We can\\'t wait to sing along to hits such as Golden Brown, Peaches and No More Heroes – peachy indeed!\r\nBestival\\'s Rob da Bank has also peppered the line up with an amazing array of bright young things for 2006. From hotly tipped electronic wizard Nathan Fake and bass slapping Indie-folk wonder Jamie T to Lamacq\\'s latest nod The Sunshine Underground it\\'s a sizzling line up from the off. The new incarnation from two members of the Beta Band and Lone Pigeon, The Aliens, add musical magic with their spacey psychedelia avant rock. The previously undiscovered favourites of last year\\'s festival, the rockabilly band Kitty Daisy & Lewis, who incredibly are aged at just 11, 15 and 17, are back and are now Sunday Best\\'s newest signing. Brighton\\'s hottest new export Cagedbaby is making his third Bestival appearance with his wondrous electro house. Add in NME Chart toppers The Young Knives, Drum & Bass warlords Planet Pendulum and Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly, the most hotly tipped UK act from South by South West, and you\\'ll have a taste of what it feels like to be in Rob da Bank\\'s head. Many more hot new acts still to be announced by the BBC Radio 1 DJ.\r\n\r\nCream of the UK folk scene King Creosote makes his Bestival debut appearance – Robby will be chasing him for big furry hugs this September as Fife\\'s finest folk artist and one of Rob da Bank favourites comes to visit the folking fanatics at Bestival.\r\n\r\nKid Creole and The Coconuts and The Fall cover different spectrums of \\'classic\\' – You only get a line up this diverse at the official \\'Most Innovative Festival\\' ever – Catch the Kid banging out summer gems such as Stool Pigeon and see one of the best Indie bands ever The Fall fill the main stage with glory - still top of their game after 97 odd albums. Pure genius.\r\n\r\nAlso they\\'ll be the usual soundscape of DJs ranging from DJ Marky, DJ Yoda, Annie Mac, Cosmic Fury (Tom Middleton & Fred Deakin), Erol Alkan, DJ Zinc, Justin Robertson, to Mary Anne Hobbs, Lindstrom & Prins Thomas, Flower Power (Ibiza), Chris Coco and many more.\r\n\r\nBestival favourites The Cuban Brothers will also be let loose on the main stage every day with their unique style of compeering – The original funk soul brothers will also be playing tracks from their \\'A to Z of The Cuban Brothers\\' album. Now a 15 strong troop when fully live it\\'s a high-energy experience not for the faint hearted. Don\\'t forget \\"It\\'s good to touch!\\".\r\n\r\nSo that\\'s a wee taster of what promises to be the most eclectic and fun line up ever from Mr da Bank. Not only that but we\\'ll be packing our small and beautifully formed festival full of Sunday Best surprises and strange happenings. Last year we decided to hold a little fancy dress party for a bit of fun. About 10,000 Cowboys and Indians turned up and broke the Guinness World Record for \\'the biggest fancy dress party\\' ever. This year we\\'re going mad for the Circus theme so we\\'ll be calling all strongmen, bearded ladies, freaks, performing seals, lions, ringmasters and sword swallowers (but don\\'t sue us!) or just come as you are! All that plus an even bigger and better Boutique Campsite including a beach café, double deckers and the new Bohemian Bivouac - a travelling Boutique B&B bought to you by Bestival\\'s creative brain box Josie da Bank (further info very soon!)\r\n\r\nBestival is certainly a jam-packed cacophony of musical treats and it\\'s the spirit of Bestival that makes it a truly magical weekend for happy campers. The site is crafted with love with Josie\\'s hand drawn designs filling the festival with wondrous imagination. The festival is put together with love by a team dedicated to bringing the best in boutique festival spirit to the rolling English countryside every year. Fantastic food, the coolest cocktail bar ever – The Bollywood Bar plus a bunch of new and amazing stuff and acts are still to be announced – Plus more cracking headliners to boot! You\\'d be bananas to miss it! Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:37:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Coldplay-and-Foo-Fighters-to-Headline.aspx The rejuvenated Nokia Isle of Wight Festival was another massive hit in 2005 and celebrates its 5th anniversary in 2006. The event is set to be even bigger and with no Glastonbury, tickets are expected to sell-out fast!\r\n\r\nThe man behind the Nokia Isle of Wight Music Festival says he used our cultural history to help attract Britain\\'s biggest band to perform live here. Coldplay will be at Seaclose Park in Newport to provide the festival\\'s finale on the night of Sunday 11 June. It\\'s the band\\'s only live appearance in Europe this summer. The multi award winning band have had enormous success over the last few years, selling out live music stadiums across the world, and achieving multi platinum status on all their albums. Promoter John Giddings says the Island\\'s artistic past was part of the sell. He made a presentation to lead singer Chris Martin, guitarist Guy Berryman, bassist Jon Buckland and drummer Will Champion involving the Isle of Wight\\'s links to famous poet Alfred Lord Tennyson, Dimbola Lodge and the famous festivals of the late 1960s.\r\n\r\nThe festival at Seaclose Park, Newport, is from Friday, June 9, to Sunday, June 11. Saturday\\'s Headliner are Foo Fighters, without a doubt one of the most celebrated live bands in the world. This summer, they\\'ll treat the Isle of Wight to a performance that encapsulates the passion, rage and pure musical genius they\\'ve created over the past 10 years.\r\nFriday headliners already announced are The Prodigy and Placebo, sharing the stage with Goldfrapp and The Rakes. On Saturday performing are Primal Scream, Editors, Dirty Pretty Things, The Kooks, The Upper Room and 747s; and Sunday there\\'s a great line up with Richard Ashcroft, Lou Reed, Maximo Park and Kubb ending what shaping up to be one of the best festival yet. Tickets selling fast through Wightlink or Red Funnel, check out the website at www.isleofwightfestival.com Sat, 01 Apr 2006 14:38:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/news-in-brief.aspx Andrew Turner MP has called on the Council to modify the Pan development to include a Coppins Bridge by-pass to be included in the major Pan Extension, running from Staplers to Shide. He fears that the new residential roads will become “rat runs”. The MP’s number is 530808.\r\n\r\nThe latest excavations at Pan have unearthed early human flint tools perhaps a quarter of a million years old. This could establish the Island as one of the key locations in Northern Europe for understanding our Neanderathal past.\r\n\r\nSainsbury’s is requesting a 4,000 square metre expansion on its store at Town Gate, increasing in size by one third. Detailed plans will be submitted to the Council within three months.\r\n\r\nRestoration work on the donkey powered waterwheel at Carisbrooke Castle has been completed. English Heritage carried out the repairs to the waterwheel during recent months, including problems with its structure and braking. £20,000 funding has been made available to match business donations to various Island arts projects run with the Island 2000 Trust. For more information please contact Island 2000 enquiries@island2000.org.uk or 298098. \r\n\r\nNewport based Wight Business Services has raised £3,169 for the Hospice through collecting rubbish print cartidges toners and mobiles from Island clients and sending them to a recycling plant in Scotland. If you have these items please don’t send them to landfill, drop them into WBS or the Hospice Sunflower Shop or phone WBS on 822229 for collection.\r\n\r\nThe Queen’s birthday will be marked with a special service at St Thomas’ at 11am on the 23rd. \r\n\r\nOn April 26th the new Chemotherapy Unit will benefit when up to forty members of the Cowes Urban Metro Gymn will cycle on exercise bikes for up to six hours in St James’ Square. \r\n\r\nMeanwhile thirty prisoners and one officer at Albany Prison raised £800 for\r\nNewport’s Westminster House, the short-stay hostel for people with learning diificulties.\r\n\r\nThe deadline for entry to the Pan in Bloom competition is the 28th April. For details call 520639\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 11:43:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Musicians-live-for-little-ones.aspx by Erica Myers\r\nDuring the past 15 months Musicstart, funded by Youth Music and Healing Arts has brought to the Island a range of activities, training and resources for the under fives and their families. \r\nThe aim of the project has been to promote the many benefits of singing and music making with very small children in the home and early years settings.\r\nAs a celebration of their project\\'s work the Musicstart team presented a free musical event for families with children under 5 on the 18th March, at the Riverside Centre. A variety of live local musicians took part, sharing their musical talent in a relaxed atmosphere. More than that though, there were \\'join in\\' sessions, and a chance to make instruments, chat to the musicians and have fun dancing, singing and playing instruments. \r\n\r\nIf you would like to contact the MusicStart team phone them on 07950 501763 or 534438 for more information.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 11:46:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Funding-boost-for-St-Thomas’-church-renewal.aspx St Thomas, Newport, the Island\\'s premier church, has been awarded an initial repair grant of £68,000, one of only six major Lottery Fund grants announced this week by English Heritage to be offered to important church buildings in the South East. Canon Stephen Palmer announced the good news before viewing the roof from the top of an IW Fire service cherrypicker platform 100 feet above St Thomas Square: \\"Much of this stonework has become porous and is beginning to cause serious damage to the Princess\r\nElizabeth chapel. When we\\'ve repaired the outside of the building, we can then go ahead with the rest of our exciting plans for the Square, the Charter House and The Church at the Heart of the Island, to create a major new resource for the whole Island community. \r\n\r\nThis is the good news we\\'ve been hoping for: we start today.\\" The Fire Service cherrypicker was also used to allow two architects to get a birds-eye view of the roof. The campaign is being backed by HRH Prince Edward who wrote “Ultimately it is the vision for the future contribution the Church and Charter House can make to the Isle of Wight which impresses me most.” The work on the three floors of Charter House will provide a restaurant, meeting rooms and offices for community organisations. The initial funds will be used to assess the damage and plan the work to be done. \r\n\r\nMajor repair works will probably begin next year. A large part of the exterior stone cladding needs to be replaced. The tomb of Princess Elizabeth will be conserved. There will be alterations to the interior of the church to allow more versatile use of the space, to allow for more visitors’ infomation and exhibits.\r\nAlthough Newport Church is something of a spring chicken compared to some churches like Carisbrooke, it has been present in one form or another for over eight hundred years. It was originally dedicated to St Thomas of Canterbury about 1175 and later to St Thomas the Apostle in 1538. In 1377 the St Thomas’ was the only building left standing when the town was burned to the ground by the French.\r\n\r\nOne thing that makes the church exceptional is the fact it contains a royal princess. Elizabeth Stuart died in captivity in Carisbrooke Castle in 1650. Queen Victoria ensured that she was given a fine memorial when she and her husband Prince Albert had St Thomas’ rebuilt in 1854. The Campaign hopes to receive further English Heritage grants covering up to half the total cost of a major programme of exterior stonework and window repairs, but the rest has to be pledged or raised by the Campaign before each phase of the repairs works can begin. Just over £250,000 had been pledged or donated by the end of January towards the target of £2 million. Regular fund raising events are taking place this Spring.\r\nFor details on how you can give your help to the Campaign for the Renewal of Sts Thomas, please get in touch: Email: campaignsaintsthomas.org Website: www.saintsthomas.org Phone: 559257.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 11:52:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Welcome-to-the-internet.aspx The internet café inside 24 Self Video in Newport has now been completely refurbished and updated. Using ‘State of the art’ pay as-you-go kiosks, you now have access to 9 Dell workstations with\r\nflat panel monitors, USB & CDRW drives, 2Mb broadband access, and, if you bring your own laptop, wireless accessibility.\r\nSo, if you want to surf, e-mail or spend time researching a subject,\r\npop along and enjoy the warm, friendly atmosphere. With prices from just 50p, why wait?\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 11:54:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Get-your-share-of-the-help-we-provide.aspx Each month Steve Reading, Micro Business Advisor with Business Link Wessex on the Island, provides some useful tips for local businesses. Have you ever thought of working for yourself? Would you like to throw off the shackles of working for someone else’s gain? It’s not as difficult as it may appear and with some sensible planning and impartial advice from Business Link you could be running your own business in no time. \r\n\r\nSo what help can you expect from us? Firstly, we have a dedicated start-up program which provides an insight and practical help for those wanting to start out in business. A half day Business Awareness seminar will introduce you to the basics and our three day course will dig deeper into the subject and provide some practical help and ideas. We also run a Women into Business Enterprise Program, which is dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs find their way in business. \r\nTo find out more or to book a slot call our Advice Line on 08454 58 85 58. Secondly, we’ll provide you with a No-Nonsense Guide which explains the rules and regulations that might affect your new business. But besides advising you on these rules we will also help with all the other important issues you need to consider before starting up — from researching your market to preparing a business plan and raising finance. Finally, when you are established and looking to consolidate, grow or employ new people we have our Free Business Advice clinics which provide a reality check for your current plans and\r\nideas. Alternatively, networking with other small business owners is an excellent way of honing and learning new skills.\r\n\r\nHopefully I may have the chance of meeting you at one of our free events on the Island; the East Wight Business Club at The Bugle Inn, Brading on Monday 24 April or the Marketing for Profit seminar at the Quay Arts on Tuesday 25 April. I wish you and your business continued success. For more information or to book an event simply call 08454 58 85 57 or visit www.businesslinkwessex.co.uk/events.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 12:00:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/CO-OP-makes-a-difference.aspx This month we have a company of the month. Southern Cooperatives have stepped in to save the volunteer driver programme which can make such a difference to housebound residents in the West Wight, especially when it comes to hospital trips. Southern\r\nCo-operatives came up with a donation of £10,000 just weeks before the Optio car service was due to close down. The Optio volunteers work with 1,800 users Islandwide. If you would like to use the service please contact Margaret White on 522226.\r\n\r\nThe Southern Co-operatives Foundation have also made a series of grants to other Island good causes totalling £12,500. Southern Co-operatives Foundation Major Grants Scheme is a registered charity which supports local communities and distributes funds\r\nthrough grants for charitable projects which demonstrate cooperation or mutuality. \r\n\r\nAn award ceremony was held to present £5000 to the Isle of Wight Association for Spina Bifida, to be used to purchase specially designed lightweight wheelchairs; £5000 to Challenge and Adventure, a crime prevention project for young people that organises workshops and outdoor activities; £2000 to Isle of Wight Fairtrade Forum, for presentation equipment used in schools and businesses; and £500 to West Wight Youth Football Club, to be used to buy training equipment.\r\n\r\nThe Clerk to the Trustees of the Foundation, Mike Tiller, and two Foundation Trustees, Tom Blair and Simon Bramwell, made the presentations. Tom Blair said, \\"We were delighted to be able to donate these funds to these worthwhile causes which do such a lot of important work on the Isle of Wight. The Foundation is making a real difference to local communities.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:38:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Freshwater-parish-council-news.aspx These are exciting times for the Parish Council. We are on the verge of formalising our Village Partnership which will enable the Parish Council to have an advisory arm. The Freshwater Partnership Initiative (formerly the West Wight Community Initiative) is chaired by Robin Day and the membership is drawn from different organisations within\r\nthe village.\r\nThe Initiative has several ongoing projects including looking at a planting programme to brighten the village and a five a side football pitch on Stroud Field for our younger footballers. Minutes from the Initiative will appear on the Parish Council website and dates of future meetings will made available. The Freshwater Partnership Initiative will be a standing item on the Parish Council Agenda which will enable councillors to be kept updated.\r\nAt the last Parish Council meeting a request was made for some of the archive items stored by the council to be placed on display at Dimbola House. The council was pleased to comply with this request which will enable Freshwater residents to view the artefacts.\r\n\r\nThe Parish Council were also pleased to be able to contribute towards the stained glass window for the Peter Toms Library at West Wight Middle School. 2006 is the centenary of the establishment of the school, originally the Council School, and the staff and pupils will be celebrating this event in the summer term. Headmistress Ms Bryant would be pleased to receive any photographs or mementos that former pupils may have, or to hear memories that residents may have of their time at the school.\r\n\r\nFreshwater Parish Council is celebrating coming in as the runner up for the best town or\r\nparish council website. The awards were made at Southampton FC stadium on March 7th. The awards were organised by Hampshire County Council and sponsored by Microsoft. Freshwater Parish Council was delighted to receive the award and made a vote of thanks to Mr Robin Day who voluntarily built and developed the site.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:41:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/totland-april-news.aspx by Sally Honeychurch, To fill the vacancy on Totland Parish Council caused by the retirement of Audrey Smith on health grounds, the councillors have co-opted Val Cooke. A panel of villagers has begun work on the Totland Village Plan, which will make recommendations about the way Totland feels it would like to be in the future. If you - or your club/church/group - would like to be involved then please call in at the Parish Office and talk to the clerk, Val, or come to the next meeting there on March 28th. The views of everyone in Totland, children as well as adults, locals and \\"overners\\", are needed to present a balanced plan.\r\nMy apologies to The Brookside Physiotherapy Service for the misinterpretation of the facts concerning the coming changes there. There is a notice on their window to put you straight! \\"Art on the Turfwalk\\" in August is being planned right now. Again, call in at the Parish Office if you want to take part - and lots more helpers would be very welcome too.\r\nLook out for the notices which remind you when the Mobile Library comes next to The Broadway.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:42:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/April-Calbourne-and-Shalfleet-News.aspx There has been a focus on planning for the future with presentations by Ashley Curzon to the Shalfleet and Calbourne parish councils, explaining the consultation stage of the Island Plan Preferred Core Strategy. \r\nMr Curzon attended the Calbourne parish council’s February meeting and a special cluster meeting for Chale, Rookley and Shalfleet parishes held in Shalfleet School in March. An eclectic audience at this gathering plied Isle of Wight Council Leader Andy Sutton and Ashley Curzon with searching questions on most aspects of local government policy for the short and long term future. \r\nProvision of affordable rural housing for local people, and the associated infrastructure, remains a hot topic. Documenting the past and also looking to the future, author Keir Foss is compiling a companion volume to his Book of Newtown published two years ago. \r\nThe Book of Porchfield and Locks Green, set for publication in November, will feature a subscribers\\' list – open for further entries until September this year. With a wealth of social history stories, a chapter in the book will comment on the changes occurring in the countryside and its rural communities since the second world war and trends that may well foreshadow the “day after tomorrow”.\r\n\r\nA hosepipe ban to conserve water stocks was announced from March 24th, although a week before many lawns were still too wet for mowing. The last such ban on the Island was in the drought summer of 1976. Water use has increased greatly since then in tandem with house building which brings us full circle to the rural housing topic. Hopefully there will be enough flow down a length of the Calbourne stream for the Easter Sunday plastic duck race this year.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:44:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Year-5-at-West-Wight-Middle.aspx Reported by year 5, literacy set 2. Mr Godwin came and talked to us. After a while we saw a video showing what the Red Cross charity does to help people who are in need. Before very long he gave out booklets showing what they do. Then we asked some questions because we wanted to know more. Also we had a vote to decide where the money should go and despite a lot of people voting for the Isle of Wight medical loans service, over-all most votes went to the Asian earthquake appeal so that is who will receive our money.\r\nShortly after this we started to explain our challenge to our family and friends. We had to learn our times tables to see how many questions we could get right in 20 minutes. Another thing was that we only had 2 weeks to practise. Set 3 had a maximum of 500 questions, Set 2 had 800 and Set 1 had 100!\r\nOur times table challenge took place on Friday 25th November and we all sat down at our desks ready to start. After that we all got a book of times table questions (up to the 12s). We had 20 minutes to do them in and in the end we added up how many we got right. It was exciting but hard as well and we felt determined, positive but nervous it was a tense time!\r\nNext we went home and were really happy because our families gave us the money because we asked nicely. The money started coming in very quickly. At first we raised £300, then £400 and the money continued to be brought into school so we were amazed every day when our teacher told us the daily updates. We loved helping people, do you? Thank you to everybody who helped us to help the Red Cross.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 13:47:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Brighstone-April-news.aspx by Jill Wareham. Sadly we learnt at the Isle of Wight Council’s Budget meeting in February that the Community grants to the local Community Forums were ceasing. The monies, which were allocated on a per-elector rate, have been very beneficial to the Brighstone Parish community over the last few years, funding projects which may not have happened otherwise. The grants were intended to benefit and enhance the local community. \r\nSeveral consultations were carried out and a number of proposals were put forward to be funded. These were then prioritised and a plan was formulated to carry out the actions in a short, medium and long term timetable. The community grants were able either to fully or partly fund such things as skips and bags for beach cleans in Brighstone and Brook; planters around the Parish which are still well maintained and enhance the local environment; improvements to the Seely Hall access as well as the Interpretation Board and the new Notice Board; improvements to the Wilberforce Hall including the disabled access; Brighstone Village Museum Book, Brighstone Village Map, new flag for St Mary’s church; preparation of the Brighstone Parish Plan, cycle racks in Brighstone; The Reading Rooms Car Park and new playground equipment for the Recreation Ground. \r\n\r\nMany of the above projects have had a large input of voluntary labour and the community funds also helped to bring in over £25,000 of other money into the Parish. The future of the Forum will be discussed at the next Parish Council meeting where Sue Chilton from the Isle of Wight Council will be coming to talk about how other Parish Councils and Forums work. There are still a number of projects that have been identified in the Parish Plan which are due to be progressed by the Forum and which will need funding either by grants or as suggested by the Isle of Wight Council by raising money locally through the Parish precept.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 14:17:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Sisters-new-start-at-the-Sun-Inn.aspx The new owners of the Sun Inn at Calbourne are sisters Kate Goldson and Sandra Mobley. \r\nTheir father was Island born and they have always wanted to run an Island business. They are looking forward to expanding the service on offer at one of the Island’s most versatile public houses. The Sun already has attractions from a range of real ales to a model railway. \r\nKate and Sandra have introduced all day opening on Fridays and Saturdays with meals available and plan to introduce new meals alongside the existing old favourites. “We serve two course Sunday roasts for £7.95” said Kate, “and a Senior Citizen’s Special for £5.95”. The sisters want to cater for all the family including children’s meals. They are pleased the old staff have all stayed on. It is hoped to develop more pub games and teams for darts, dominos and crib are being sought for. \r\nA Quiz Night is also in the offing Kate and Sandra will put on extra special nights for all national events including the national Saints days. The sisters also have an ambition to act as charity fundraisers for the Mountbatten Hospice. To find out more please phone 531231 or fax 531827.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 14:20:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Island-food--crafts-association.aspx On April 30th the Island Food and Craft Association website will launch a new website to assist its members to promote producers and promoters of Island goods and to trade with one another on the Island. \r\nThe Island Food & Crafts Association is being set up to develop an umbrella organisation for producers and users and retailers of locally produced food and craft products on the Isle of Wight, to raise the level of local produce consumption and the quality of local production and to develop the Island as a ‘Food Tourism’ destination to support the long-term sustainability of the rural economy by encouraging tourist outlets to use local produce. \r\nThe Association will provide a central point to coordinate initiatives and channel funding, provide a central exchange to help increase the supply and retail of IW products, support the development and production of IW products, act as a forum for events and promotions to increase the range of IW products and improve their economic sustainability, reduce the environmental footprint of Island consumption through promotion of local production and distribution promote exports, and promote the importance of farming and forestry activities to the beauty of the countryside and give artistic expression of the Island through its artisan products. \r\n\r\nDeep Design who are designing the website have enjoyed working alongside IFCA in helping bring the Island together using the internet. “People are now spending more time on the internet per year than watching TV – the nation\\'s previous favourite past time.” said Development Manager Stewart Denley. “We hope that you will enjoy the fruits of the Isle of Wight and help support IFCA in its endeavours to unify and promote this beautiful island.”\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 14:24:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/1st-Brighstone-annual-Scout-auction.aspx A packed house at Wilberforce Hall in Brighstone raised over £1449 at the 1st Brighstone Annual Scout Auction. The auction was conducted with much hilarity and professionalism by Mike Hamlet, father of 3 sons in the scout group, and he soon had people parting with their money for items ranging from furry animal pictures to a lovely carved monks\\' chest. The money raised also included sales of teas and coffees and a few donations from supporters of the hard working Scout group. Each year the running costs of the new scout hall and scouting activities costs over £7,000, a large chunk of which is to pay for insurance, so they were delighted with the monies raised and thanked all who attended and look forward to holding another next year. Tue, 04 Apr 2006 14:26:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/News-from-Dimbola-Museum.aspx Young Island residents will have the chance to learn more about the Victorian pioneer photographer Julia Margaret Cameron thanks to a £7,000 grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund. The award will allow young people to explore and learn about their local heritage and the legacy left by Mrs Cameron. Activities will include creating a collage with artist-in-residence Mary Clemmensen, a day trip to the National Portrait Gallery, workshops to learn old and new photographic techniques including pinhole cameras and taking portraits with digital cameras recreating Cameron\\'s lighting around the house. \r\nThe group will select, mount and hang their own exhibition in the Tea Room in October. \r\nEach participant will take away a DVD of the project and create their own visual diary. There will be an open day on Saturday 1st April from 1 - 4pm where young people can come along and take part in taking digital photos in costume, arts events, face painting and juggling. Thanks to another grant from LEADERlite Dimbola Lodge are holding workshops for all the family. Paul van Giap will be working with under 12 year olds and BBC Film maker Brian Bradbury will be giving practical tips and ideas on filming events from weddings to birthday parties. Paul will help 5-12 year olds create Fabergé Eggs for Easter and a Dinosaur mask and model from art straws and sand. \r\nUnder 8s need to be accompanied by an adult. Other workshops will include cubist paintings in the style of Picasso and paper cut-out images inspired by Matisse. For further details please pick up a leaflet at Dimbola Lodge. Brian Bradbury will be holding outdoor workshops at Calbourne Duck Race on Sunday 16th April and the Old Gaffers in Yarmouth on Sunday 4th June. \r\nEach session will begin at 11am and will be completed in the editing suite at Dimbola Lodge at 4pm. There will be three additional opportunities to edit your own film footage with Brian at Dimbola Lodge. Participants are asked to bring their own video cameras to each session. Paul van Giap and Chloe Ward from Ottakar\\'s Bookshop are combining their expertise for the under fives. \r\nEach session will include a story and helping the children to use craft materials. The sessions will last just over an hour and will take place from 24th April and every last Monday in the Month for 2006. Each session will be FREE and children must be accompanied by a parent. \r\nThere will be a touring exhibition of the photographs in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty competition accompanied by poems inspired by the photos written by school children from West Wight Middle School. The exhibition will be shown at the Middle School Centenary, Freshwater Library and Newtown Town Hall. There will also be three all-day Sunday courses on photography in April and others in following months. The cost is £35. Allan Clarke will give an introduction to Photoshop on 2nd April. John Walker will give an introduction to darkroom techniques and film processing on the 9th April. \r\nAllan Clarke will continue photo editing on Sunday 23rd April This project is managed by Dimbola Lodge Museum\\'s Learning and Access Officer, who is funded by the Isle of Wight Economic Partnership through the Leader+ programme. Digital cameras are on loan and have been supplied by Olympus Cameras. For further details please contact Nicky Dabbs Tel: 756814 Email: nicky@dimbola.freeserve.co.uk\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 14:31:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/news-in-brief.aspx Shanklin Youth and Community Centre has launched a purpose built six lane car-racing scalextric circuit. It is one of a series of projects to provide activities for young people. Shanklin Youth & Community Centre is based at 117 Carter Avenue, 867349. \r\n\r\nThe Newchurch Male Voice Choir has achieved top marks in the IW Musical Competition Festival. The choir won their class taking the Association Cup as well as the John Flower Cup and the Mrs Florence Duggan Rose Bowl. It is the best result for the choir to date. The adjudicator described the performance as “exceptional, both technically and artistically”. \r\n\r\nIsland Line has been the first to be awarded \\'Community Rail\\' status by Rail Minister Derek Twigg. This should mean greater emphasis on local management to increase passenger use and revenue, to reduce costs and increase community involvement in the railway. \r\n\r\nPart of Shanklin Fire Station is being re-built. IW Council says the training tower has been demolished because it was in a poor condition. A new tower will be constructed on the same site. \r\n\r\nVentnor Town Council has been criticized for a tax increase of £19,000 to a record total of £99,000 per year. The rise this year is attributed to the feared legal costs of a case of wrongful dismissal that is being tried at Portsmouth County Court and the costs of running the Winter Gardens. \r\n\r\nSandown High School student Sarah Thornton (15) has won a place in a prestigious music college in Manchester where she will continue her education and training. Sarah is a member of the National Youth Choir. \r\n\r\nShanklin teenager Charlie Reeve will represent the Island in a national Karaoke competition. He won the UK Pub Stars competition held at Chapter One and will now compete in the regional finals held in Swindon. \r\n\r\nThe ladies of Ventnor’s Inner Wheel celebrated their sixtieth anniversary with invited guests. Eighty people attended the celebration at the Royal Hotel. Since 1946 the club has raised tens of thousands of pounds for good causes. The Club President, Fay Reed, who joined the Inner Wheel in 1962 was awarded a brooch and bouquet. \r\n\r\nShanklin company RW Eccott & Sons has won their twelfth Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association award for the best residential swimming pool costing less than £35,000 at the annual show in Brighton.\r\nShanklin Youth and Community Centre has launched a purpose built six lane car-racing scalextric circuit. It is one of a series of projects to provide activities for young people. Shanklin Youth & Community Centre is based at 117 Carter Avenue, 867349. \r\n\r\nThe Newchurch Male Voice Choir has achieved top marks in the IW Musical Competition Festival. The choir won their class taking the Association Cup as well as the John Flower Cup and the Mrs Florence Duggan Rose Bowl. It is the best result for the choir to date. The adjudicator described the performance as “exceptional, both technically and artistically”. \r\n\r\nIsland Line has been the first to be awarded \\'Community Rail\\' status by Rail Minister Derek Twigg. This should mean greater emphasis on local management to increase passenger use and revenue, to reduce costs and increase community involvement in the railway. \r\n\r\nPart of Shanklin Fire Station is being re-built. IW Council says the training tower has been demolished because it was in a poor condition. A new tower will be constructed on the same site. \r\n\r\nVentnor Town Council has been criticized for a tax increase of £19,000 to a record total of £99,000 per year. The rise this year is attributed to the feared legal costs of a case of wrongful dismissal that is being tried at Portsmouth County Court and the costs of running the Winter Gardens. \r\n\r\nSandown High School student Sarah Thornton (15) has won a place in a prestigious music college in Manchester where she will continue her education and training. Sarah is a member of the National Youth Choir. \r\n\r\nShanklin teenager Charlie Reeve will represent the Island in a national Karaoke competition. He won the UK Pub Stars competition held at Chapter One and will now compete in the regional finals held in Swindon. \r\n\r\nThe ladies of Ventnor’s Inner Wheel celebrated their sixtieth anniversary with invited guests. Eighty people attended the celebration at the Royal Hotel. Since 1946 the club has raised tens of thousands of pounds for good causes. The Club President, Fay Reed, who joined the Inner Wheel in 1962 was awarded a brooch and bouquet. \r\n\r\nShanklin company RW Eccott & Sons has won their twelfth Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association award for the best residential swimming pool costing less than £35,000 at the annual show in Brighton.\r\nShanklin Youth and Community Centre has launched a purpose built six lane car-racing scalextric circuit. It is one of a series of projects to provide activities for young people. Shanklin Youth & Community Centre is based at 117 Carter Avenue, 867349. \r\n\r\nThe Newchurch Male Voice Choir has achieved top marks in the IW Musical Competition Festival. The choir won their class taking the Association Cup as well as the John Flower Cup and the Mrs Florence Duggan Rose Bowl. It is the best result for the choir to date. The adjudicator described the performance as “exceptional, both technically and artistically”. \r\n\r\nIsland Line has been the first to be awarded \\'Community Rail\\' status by Rail Minister Derek Twigg. This should mean greater emphasis on local management to increase passenger use and revenue, to reduce costs and increase community involvement in the railway. \r\n\r\nPart of Shanklin Fire Station is being re-built. IW Council says the training tower has been demolished because it was in a poor condition. A new tower will be constructed on the same site. \r\n\r\nVentnor Town Council has been criticized for a tax increase of £19,000 to a record total of £99,000 per year. The rise this year is attributed to the feared legal costs of a case of wrongful dismissal that is being tried at Portsmouth County Court and the costs of running the Winter Gardens. \r\n\r\nSandown High School student Sarah Thornton (15) has won a place in a prestigious music college in Manchester where she will continue her education and training. Sarah is a member of the National Youth Choir. \r\n\r\nShanklin teenager Charlie Reeve will represent the Island in a national Karaoke competition. He won the UK Pub Stars competition held at Chapter One and will now compete in the regional finals held in Swindon. \r\n\r\nThe ladies of Ventnor’s Inner Wheel celebrated their sixtieth anniversary with invited guests. Eighty people attended the celebration at the Royal Hotel. Since 1946 the club has raised tens of thousands of pounds for good causes. The Club President, Fay Reed, who joined the Inner Wheel in 1962 was awarded a brooch and bouquet. \r\n\r\nShanklin company RW Eccott & Sons has won their twelfth Swimming Pool & Allied Trades Association award for the best residential swimming pool costing less than £35,000 at the annual show in Brighton.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 14:40:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Channel-4s-big-art-programme.aspx Sandown Bay is on the list for Channel 4\\'s \\'Big Art Project\\'.\r\nMakers of the TV programme have been filming at Yaverland. The two year scheme sees locations across the country battle it out to receive anything from a permanent sculpture to a more transient piece such as a dance performance. Hundreds of Islanders turn out to show their support for Sandown in the national competition, with many carnival and community groups attending the event. Strong local support is a key factor in judging, \r\n\r\nSandown’s Town Crier John Davies was on duty with various groups including The Ryde Extreme Performers displaying circus skills. Sandown has already made it on to the shortlist of locations to be filmed. Those behind the bid hope it will be one of six locations in the UK to receive a ‘big art’ installation. Sandown is considered one of the favourites to make the final twelve shortlist. The IW Economic Partnership is behind the Sandown bid, with hopes it will spearhead the area\\'s regeneration.\r\nSandown Bay is on the list for Channel 4\\'s \\'Big Art Project\\'.\r\nMakers of the TV programme have been filming at Yaverland. The two year scheme sees locations across the country battle it out to receive anything from a permanent sculpture to a more transient piece such as a dance performance. Hundreds of Islanders turn out to show their support for Sandown in the national competition, with many carnival and community groups attending the event. Strong local support is a key factor in judging, \r\n\r\nSandown’s Town Crier John Davies was on duty with various groups including The Ryde Extreme Performers displaying circus skills. Sandown has already made it on to the shortlist of locations to be filmed. Those behind the bid hope it will be one of six locations in the UK to receive a ‘big art’ installation. Sandown is considered one of the favourites to make the final twelve shortlist. The IW Economic Partnership is behind the Sandown bid, with hopes it will spearhead the area\\'s regeneration.\r\nSandown Bay is on the list for Channel 4\\'s \\'Big Art Project\\'.\r\nMakers of the TV programme have been filming at Yaverland. The two year scheme sees locations across the country battle it out to receive anything from a permanent sculpture to a more transient piece such as a dance performance. Hundreds of Islanders turn out to show their support for Sandown in the national competition, with many carnival and community groups attending the event. Strong local support is a key factor in judging, \r\n\r\nSandown’s Town Crier John Davies was on duty with various groups including The Ryde Extreme Performers displaying circus skills. Sandown has already made it on to the shortlist of locations to be filmed. Those behind the bid hope it will be one of six locations in the UK to receive a ‘big art’ installation. Sandown is considered one of the favourites to make the final twelve shortlist. The IW Economic Partnership is behind the Sandown bid, with hopes it will spearhead the area\\'s regeneration.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 15:44:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Sandown-Los-Altos-residents-association.aspx Following a recent Open Meeting held at the Fairway Caravan Park (by kind permission of Mr. Chris Williams) an idea to form a local Residents\\' Association, driven forward by Ray Healey from Perowne Way, has now become a positive Project.\r\n Ray, together with his newly formed Committee, would like to thank all the people who supported and attended the meeting, in particular those who became members that evening and since. LARA Membership is for the benefit of Residents in Perowne Way and roads off to Mortonbrook. Should you be interested in helping promote a more friendly, community spirited place to live, they would be delighted to hear from you. Contact either Ray Healey, Chairperson on 406550 or Glo Crouch, Hon Secretary on 406515.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 15:46:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Farewell-from-P.C-Mcintosh.aspx PC Chris McIntosh is stepping down as the familiar face of Sandown Bay police for a new job in Newport Police Station. He started serving in Sandown in the eighties and nineties before going to Child Protection work for three and a half years “and then back to Shanklin working on a shift until returning for my second spell at Sandown.”\r\n“When I first started at Sandown there were three Beat officers of which I was the youngest in service. I learnt a lot very quickly and always felt I had time for most things and to speak to most people. The second time around I was the only Beat officer covering the whole of the town.\r\n\r\nI have tried to police by consent and I hope that most of the residents believe they have had a fair deal from me no matter which side of the fence they have been on! I\\'ve already been asked many times whether I will be back. You can never say never can you?\r\n\r\nThe plan now is that there will again be three dedicated Beat officers for Sandown from 1st April.\r\n\r\nThank you for all your support and I\\'ll no doubt see you soon”.\r\n Tue, 04 Apr 2006 15:49:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Freshwater’s-first-bio-diesel-Ford-Escort.aspx If you are driving along & can smell Fish & Chips, you have either driven past a chip shop or are following this 21 year old Ford Escort (Diesel) which runs on recycled cooking oil & belongs to Graham Lee of The High Street, Freshwater. \r\n\r\nGraham had enough of ever increasing fuel prices and converted to using vegetable oil. A secondary fuel tank was fitted in the boot and both fuel tanks connected to a three way valve near the driver\\'s seat to switch between the two tanks. The main tank holds the Bio-Diesel for driving & the secondary tank holds normal Diesel. The diesel is for starting the engine from cold. \r\n\r\nDue to the thicker nature of vegetable oil, Graham uses a homemade recipe to separate Glycerine from it. The remaining oil is washed in hot water and then left to stand for two days. Once separated from the water, the oil is ready to use as fuel! The fuel pump has new seals to cope with the higher pressures and the air intake & exhaust needed to be modified. \r\n\r\nThe Bio-Diesel car is no slouch at all engine speeds and is smoother running with lower emissions so it is environmentally friendly. The downside is that fuel tax must be paid at a rate of 26p per litre of Bio-Diesel used. But this is still cheaper than the pumps! For more information, stop the driver for a chat. Tue, 11 Apr 2006 16:29:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Sandown-Carnival-Queens--2006..aspx Once again, Sandown Carnival Queen Selection Evening was filled with beautiful young ladies all hoping to become Sandown Carnival Queen 2006. Our judges this year had the difficult task of choosing just 5 from 50 girls, which took 2 hours of interviews, and over half an hour of trying to make the hardest decision they have ever made. The judges said \\'This year was the hardest year they have encountered for choosing girls, every girl they met had the qualities they are looking for to become a Carnival Queen, but they have a limit of five girls and the decision had to be made. As for a runner up - they would have to say every other girl at the selection night was a runner up - the decision was so difficult.\\'\r\nSandown Carnival would like to thank every girl who turned up, and hope they enjoyed the evening at Bogeys! We would also like to thank Mark Watson and the staff at Colonel Bogeys for their help. For pictures of the evening and further details please go to www.sandowncarnival.com\r\nCongratulations to (from left to right)\r\n\r\nEmily Harlow, Tamasine Scofield, Amy O\\'Regan, Sophie Cowles & Danielle Ridley.\r\n Tue, 18 Apr 2006 08:12:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/The-Park-Centre-on-course-for-groups-and-classes.aspx Following its Launch on the 25th April, the new Park Centre, in High Park Road, Ryde is already expanding into a thriving Community Centre. The Computer Learning Suite and Internet Café will now be attached to a real Café serving lunches, tea and coffee every weekday between 12–4pm..\r\n\r\nThe Centre is open weekdays between 9am. and 5pm. “If you have any ideas or suggestions about what classes you would like us to establish, pop in and let us know” said Chris Hughes, the Centres Activities Organiser “If others show an interest we will endeavour to provide that class for you”.\r\n\r\nNew attractions that are starting during May are courses including Art for Beginners, Intermediate Art, Poetry Reading and Appreciation, Keep Fit for the Unfit, Introduction to Computers and Digital Imaging. The Digital Imaging course is aimed at people who want to get the best results from their digital cameras and software and is being run in conjunction with the Island Photography Centre of Ryde & Newport. Barry Kemp the Project Manager said “We are delighted that the users have asked us to provide these courses and thanks to a link up with the IW Council’s Culture & Leisure Services, Adult & Community Learning, we are able to”. \r\n\r\nPlans have been drawn up to convert, subject to funding, another part of the premises creating a games room, complete with pool table, office space and a meeting/lecture room. Other events that are planned include a Table Top Sale on Thursday 18th May from 6pm. to book your table ring now on 611913 and Cash Bingo on Thursday 1st June at 7pm with refreshments available at both events. \r\n Tue, 18 Apr 2006 08:27:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Calbourne--Shalfleet.aspx After months questioning the authorities about the maintenance and safety of their rural roads, Calbourne Parish Council got some answers at a recent meeting. Nick Gallin, IW highways engineer, promised action on some specific road safety issues and explained\r\nhow road repairs are prioritised. Calbourne councillors attributed the poor state of the road surface along Whitehouse Road to lack of reinstatement after its use by heavy vehicles at an oil exploration site, and high volumes of diverted traffic for two months while\r\nsewer works partially closed Horsebridge Hill. IW councillor Colin West supported Mr Gallin when he said that a bid for external grant cash is being prepared, as this is the only way forward. To bring all Island roads into good repair, without extra funds, would cost roughly three times the entire amount currently collected annually in council tax! Litter on roadside verges and fly-tipping are still a blot on the landscape in places. Householders having old fridges, washing machines etc to dispose of can do this free at council tips.\r\nIf you use a trailer or commercial van, rather than the family car to transport them, apply for a permit beforehand, otherwise a charge per item applies. During the walking festival from May 6 – 21 you can get outdoors and explore some of our lesser known footpaths\r\nat a time of year when countryside and coastline are looking their best. Aside from the festival, the annual guided orchid walk at Jersey Camp, Porchfield on May 16 is a rare opportunity to see round a conservation and wildlife area usually closed to the public. Wed, 19 Apr 2006 15:52:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/SCISSOR-SISTERS-TO-HEADLINE-SUNDAY.aspx Well, the rumour wheel has been rolling fast as news of our second headliner has been creating one hell of a buzz. And yes, its true the mighty Scissor Sisters are headlining our three day extravaganza this September taking the stage on Sunday night to round off our festival of joy! This will be a very special performance as it is their only confirmed UK date this summer and we may get a sneak preview of some of their new material from their new album due out in November.\r\n\r\nAlongside the legendary Pet Shop Boys who headline Saturday night, the Scissor Sisters will be the grand finale on the main stage of what will be one of the greatest ends to the festival season. Rob da Bank has been beavering away to ensure this year\\'s Bestival is the best ever – with even more great bands, top DJs, strange happenings, exclusive arenas and boutique festival fun to keep you buzzing all weekend. Thu, 20 Apr 2006 15:43:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/COMMUNITY-ENGAGEMENT-PIONEERED-ON-ISLAND.aspx A new way of improving community engagement has been pioneered by the new administration at Isle of Wight Council through setting up five new management committees.\r\n\r\nBelieved to be the first local authority in the country to take this step, the council is supporting the new committees in Ryde, Newport, Northwood, Whippingham and Carisbrooke, with budgets ranging from more than £70,000 to £2,000.\r\n\r\nThe money has been raised by the council to enable locally identified priorities to be delivered. Membership will include ward councillors and people from the community who have been appointed through an interview process. The committees will work along the same lines as parish councils and all meetings are open to the public.\r\n\r\nCouncillor Jilly Wood, cabinet member for Resources, Auditing and Council Efficiency; Customer Champion, said: “This is an exciting new development which will improve the working relationship between the parishes and the Isle of Wight Council. These committees will give local people a strong voice in funding local issues and priorities.” \r\n Thu, 20 Apr 2006 23:03:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/LICENSING-COMES-INTO-FORCE-FOR-HMO-LANDLORDS.aspx Legislation came in force earlier this month, requiring landlords of multiple occupancy houses to obtain a licence or face a fine of up to £20,000. \r\n\r\nThe mandatory licensing scheme requires landlords of HMOs (houses in multiple occupation consisting of three or more storeys with five or more occupiers in two or more families) to acquire a license from the council. To get the licence they must also meet a number of other conditions regarding the suitability of their property, its amenities and its management.\r\n\r\nAny landlords who have not yet obtained their licence, or are unsure whether they needs a licence should contact the Isle of Wight Council’s Housing Renewal Section on 821000 as soon as possible. Thu, 20 Apr 2006 23:06:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Chale-Village-inspected.aspx Last year Chale scooped the award of 2005 Regional Calor Village of the Year, not only winning the Island heat but also the\r\nregional prize,making it one of the top half dozen villages in the\r\ncountry.\r\n\r\n Chale is now entered in a tenth anniversary champion of\r\nchampions event being staged as a one-off by Calor and is now going up against 35 previous regional winners to find out which is the UK\\'s best.\r\n\r\nThe winning village will receive £21,000 to spend on the community. Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:02:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/New-Chief-Executive-Announced.aspx \r\nThe Isle of Wight Council is celebrating the appointment of Joe Duckworth as its New Chief Executive. \r\n\r\nMr Duckworth, who is currently Deputy Chief Executive of the Excellent-rated Westminster City Council, was appointed by after a two-day selection process , which included an interview by a politically proportionate panel of seven councillors. The appointment is subject to ratification by the Full Council on Wednesday April 19. \r\n\r\nLeader of the Isle of Wight Council, Councillor Andy Sutton said: “Joe Duckworth is an outstanding appointment: it speaks volumes for the ambition of the Island that we have attracted many high-quality applicants – including Joe. I am looking forward to working with him to deliver the aspirations of the people of the Island.” \r\n\r\nMr Duckworth welcomed his appointment and said: “I am tremendously excited by my appointment, which comes at a time of many opportunities for Island residents. I am looking forward to getting to know the Island better and to working with elected members, staff and partners of the council, for the benefit of the communities we serve.” \r\n Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:03:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/COUNCIL-PLEDGES-SAFE-AND-VIBRANT-FESTIVAL.aspx The Isle of Wight Council has promised it will work with its local partners to ensure a successful and secure Isle of Wight Music Festival, after its Licensing Committee granted licensing approval tonight (Thursday 13th April).\r\n\r\nWorking with Solo, promoter of the Festival, and the local police, the Council is confident that the weekend-long event will allow the visitors to the Island to enjoy a first-class Festival, whilst causing minimal disruption to local residents.\r\n\r\nThe event will take place at Seaclose Park from Friday 9 June to Sunday 11 June. Up to 50,000 visitors are expected to see top bands such as The Prodigy, Foo Fighters and Coldplay.\r\n\r\nResponding to the announcement, Leader of the Council, Councillor Andy Sutton said: \\"I would like to thank the Licensing Committee for their work in ensuring this licence balances the demands of the Festival with the concerns of local residents. The recent consultation on the proposed licence has allowed residents to help shape the conditions under which it was granted.\r\n\r\n\\"Our partnership with the police through our Safer Communities Directorate will ensure a strong presence on the ground, both inside and outside the Festival. There will be zero tolerance of disorder and drug use throughout the weekend, and our new mobile CCTV system will allow us to monitor key locations and respond quickly to any emerging issues.\\"\r\n\r\nMembers of the Licensing Committee made their decision after considering a 236-page report which outlined conditions agreed with Solo at the suggestion of Hampshire Police, Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, Trading Standards and Environmental Health. Concerns from residents in the Fairlee area of Newport were also taken into consideration.\r\n\r\nSpeaking more generally about the event, Councillor Sutton said: \\"The Festival will bring a whole new generation of visitors to the Island who will put a substantial spend into the Island\\'s economy. With events like this, we are changing the profile of tourism and giving the Island an international status. The potential long-term benefits for our regeneration cannot be overestimated.\r\n\r\n\\"I am confident that the festival will be a huge success and the Council is looking forward to welcoming these visitors to our Island.\\"\r\n\r\nCouncillor Dawn Cousins, local member for Fairlee, said: \\"Now the licence has been granted, I will continue to work for the residents of Fairlee, ensuring their concerns are represented in the run-up to and during the Festival. I want to ensure that everyone attending enjoys the event, and my primary role as local member will be to liaise with the organisers, council officers and police to ensure that any problems are tackled immediately and the impact on local residents\\' lives is minimised.\\" Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:13:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Affordable-Home-Ownership-Event-on-Monday-24-April.aspx New schemes aimed at helping Islanders find ways of buying a home of their own are being unveiled at an Affordable Home Ownership Event on Monday 24 April in Newport.\r\n\r\nThe event, which is being held in the Seminar Room at the Quay Arts Centre from 2.00pm-6.00pm, has been organised by Swaythling Housing Society and is being supported by the Isle of Wight Council. Members of the public are invited to come and chat to Housing Association representatives, lenders, legal advisors and representatives from the council\\'s housing services to find out more about the sort of help available.\r\n\r\n\r\nAs house prices continue to rise, getting a foothold on the property ladder is proving more difficult for many, especially those on lower incomes. The new schemes are designed to offer a way out of the housing trap and include:\r\n\r\n\r\n· Open Market Homebuy - a scheme aimed mainly at key workers and housing association tenants to help them buy a home on the open market using their own mortgage capability combined with an equity loan\r\n\r\n· New Build Homebuy - a part buy/part rent scheme giving local people the opportunity to buy a home of their own in stages and eventually own outright (replaces the existing shared ownership scheme)\r\n\r\n· Social Homebuy - a scheme to help existing housing association tenants buy their own home\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe new schemes mark just one of the ways in which Islanders are benefiting from the work of the council\\'s housing services and its housing association partners. In the last financial year alone, the council has secured funding to enable 256 affordable homes to be built, a figure up from 71 in 2004-5 and an increase of proportionately more than other authorities in neighbouring Hampshire.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIn a further announcement made last week it was also confirmed that an \r\n\r\nadditional £7.9 million is being awarded to the Island to fund around 230 affordable homes in the Medina Valley and Ryde areas.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCouncillor Dawn Cousins, Cabinet Member for Care, Health & Housing said, \\"We are making considerable progress in our commitment to secure affordable homes for people on the Island. This year we have quadrupled our achievements in terms of the numbers of affordable homes that we have secured funding for and enabled to be built and we have provided additional funding for affordable housing in rural areas. This event is another example of how, working with our partners, we continue to explore and support new ways of extending low cost home ownership to people on the island.\\"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAnyone who cannot afford a place of their own and wants to find out more about the sort of help available should visit the event, or contact Swaythling Housing Society on 023 8062 8000 for more information.\r\n Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:32:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Brighstone.-‘calling-free-zone’.aspx \\'Cold Calling\\' is now banned in Brighstone, signs are being put up to protect possible victims including older residents. The idea is being introduced by the IW Council\\'s trading standards team and is also supported by Crimestoppers .The area is to be a ‘calling free zone’ banishing cold callers from knocking on villagers doors. Crimestoppers say only one in 20 of us tell police when we\\'re targeted by a rogue trader or distraction burglar. Fri, 21 Apr 2006 00:42:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/--Electrical-Employers-Evening.aspx The IW College held another successful electrical industry employer evening supported by Electrical Contractors Association (ECA) Central South Region along with Kewtech Instruments, to which 35 employers attended. Connor Flynn, Senior Assessor, gave a presentation on the BS 7671 harmonised cable colours and a technical discussion followed.\r\n\r\nThe ECA, in conjunction with Kewtech, presented the College with self check test equipment. Phil Smith of Kewtech presented the test equipment to Derek McGrath, Electrical Curriculum Manager and lecturer at the College. The equipment will be made available for employers to use at the College in the future.\r\n\r\nDerek updated employers on the qualifications currently available for the industry and those which are offered at the College. He explained the apprenticeship framework and the industry standard of practicing electricians being qualified to NVQ level 3. Derek also talked about the changes to the existing C&G 2391 qualification, the old C&G 2400 has now been incorporated into the C&G 2391 by adding an additional element to the qualification.\r\n\r\nPicture shows Connor Flynn, ECA (left) Derek McGrath, College (centre) and Phil Smith, Kewtech (right)\r\n Fri, 21 Apr 2006 01:21:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/80-Years-Old-and-Still-Rolling-Along.aspx You could be forgiven for thinking this heading relates to one of our members, but in this instance it refers to the Club itself. Having been founded in 1926, Sandown Bowling Club celebrates its 80th year in 2006. \r\n\r\nA sport for both sexes that can be played by people of all ages with varying skill levels from novice to expert, that’s Bowls. The game is ideal for people who like the outdoor life in the summertime offering fresh air and exercise, without being too physically demanding. Whether you are 8 or 80 it can be played for fun or as competitively as you like.\r\n\r\nIn the picturesque surroundings of Sandham Gardens on the seafront, Sandown Bowling Club is blessed with an excellent position. Throughout the summer you can enjoy the sunshine and seaside atmosphere whilst playing a few “ends” on the green. You will find our members having a “roll up” for practice or just enjoyment any day during the season, maybe stopping for a mug of tea or something stronger from the bar.\r\n\r\nCompetitions\r\nThe club runs competitions each year for novices, singles and pairs for men and ladies as well as mixed pairs. We have members playing competitively in teams representing Sandown against other Island clubs in league matches both home and away, a great way to meet people from all over the Island who have a common interest. These league teams are graded into divisions offering opportunity to novices and experienced players alike.\r\n\r\nSandown also hosts a number of visiting clubs from the mainland for “friendly” matches which can be competitive but are always played in a great spirit of enjoyment. Most of these touring clubs come year after year and many friendships have been developed. All of these occasions end with a social session in the clubhouse with refreshments.\r\n\r\nSandown Bowling Club is a friendly club which since its founding in 1926 has been run by the members. We welcome new members of any age, giving instruction and assistance to those who have not played before. We can provide the “woods” for you to try the game so the only cost to having a go is the green fee.\r\n\r\nOpen Day - Sunday 14th May\r\nEach Spring we hold an open day to let you view our club, try the game and meet some of our members who are on hand to answer your questions and provide advice. It is also a day for some fun with a Tombola and Bring and Buy stalls as well as a Raffle and plenty of food and drink either in the bar or outside around the green. Entry is FREE and all are welcome to join us, so please come along, test our friendship, have some fun and help us celebrate our 80th year of rolling along. \r\n\r\nSandown Boling Club Open Day - 10:30am to 4:30 pm on Sunday 14th May 2006 \r\n\r\nFor further information please contact:\r\n\r\nAlan Harrison on 01983 404516 or Email stella.harrison@tesco.net\r\n Fri, 21 Apr 2006 01:50:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/2006-Beach-Soccer-News.aspx In 2005, The Bees cemented their position as the most successful club side in UK beach soccer, retaining all three titles they won in 2004. As well as winning the Moreys League Cup for the third year, and repeating their SuperFinal success, they also retained the Premiership title - can they now make it three in a row?\r\n\r\nExpect current Wightlink Cup Champions, Sandown Sociedad, to challenge again, but last year they didn\\\\\\'t beat The Bees in any of their league or cup meetings. Sociedad manager Luke Kerr will have to change this is he wants the Premiership title. The other three teams from 2005 - BSC Fairway, Fox Property and Simeon United - will all be stronger, while newcomers Small Hope Spartans will have to make big improvements if they want to compete in the top flight.\r\n\r\n \r\nExpect more epic battles between The Bees and Sandown Sociedad in 2006 \r\n\r\n2006 PREMIERSHIP\r\nThe Bees\r\nBSC Fairway\r\nFox Property\r\nSandown Sociedad\r\nSimeon United\r\nSmall Hope Spartens\r\n\r\n\r\nSandown Sociedad Youth once again look like the side to beat in the Championship. The two newly-promoted teams - Ryde Coast Rangers, and last season\\\\\\'s FTP Team of the Year, Wight Stripes - will both be keen to make an impact early, but against experienced beach soccer sides like BSC Matrix, West Lake Rangers and Wight Knuckle Ryde, they may take a while to adjust.\r\n\r\n2006 CHAMPIONSHIP\r\nSandown Sociedad Youth\r\nBSC Matrix\r\nRyde Coast Rangers\r\nWest Lake Rangers\r\nWight Knuckle Ryde\r\nWight Stripes\r\nTop team to be promoted; bottom two teams to be relegated.\r\n\r\nDivision One promises to be as entertaining as last year. The Bees B will definitely be looking to improve on last year, but they have a way to go before they can catch the likes of Simeon Youth and Athletico Access, two young sides who will both have their eye on the title. If Rob Holbrook continues his phenomenal scoring rate for Ryde Sandblasters, they will also be challenging for the top spot.\r\n\r\nNew teams for 2006 include Wight Stripes B, who will expect to compete for a play-off place at the very least. Other newcomers are Central Eagles, Ryde Sports and Ryde Athletic, all of whom are unknown quantities at this time.\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\nThey will be back too... \r\n \r\n2006 DIVISION ONE\r\nAthletico Access\r\nThe Bees B\r\nCentral Eagles\r\nRyde Athletic\r\nRyde Sandblasters\r\nRyde Sports\r\nSimeon Youth\r\nWight Stripes B\r\n\r\nTop team to be promoted; one of P2-P5 to be promoted after a play-off.\r\nPlay-off: P2 v P5 and P3 v P4, winners play-off for last promotion spot.\r\n\r\n \r\n Fri, 21 Apr 2006 02:57:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Walk-the-Wight-for-the-Hospice.aspx We now have over 2,000 walkers registered to Walk the Wight on Sunday 14th May to raise money for patient care at the Earl Mountbatten Hospice. This includes 459 school children from 22 schools who will be clocking up miles before the day. We have 78 teams of people, some will be coming from as far away as France to be raising money for us. Walkers doing the 26.5 miles will start from Bembridge Airport at 7.00am and pass through Carisbrooke Priory and finish at the Needles Park. Walkers starting at Carisbrooke will start in the field to the rear of Carisbrooke Castle at 10.30am off of Whitcombe Road. Those doing only the first half of the walk will finish at the Carisbrooke Priory. Walkers must register in advance by the 28th April at the Town Office 19 Holyrood Street Newport, or on 528989, or download an application form from www.walkthewight.com Or you can register on the day at either Bembridge or Carisbrooke starts with a suggested minimum donation of £5. Dogs will be vetted on the day by Riverbank Veterinary Hospital, Water is provided courtesy of Southern Water and Lucozade is provided by GlaxoSmithkline and Mars Bars supplied by Toolbank. There will be fun and music at the Freshwater checkpoint, which is HF Holidays Hotel, who are one of our major sponsors. The school children will be starting from here at 1pm and walking the last 4 miles to the Needles Park. We would also like to thank Moreys and the Island Rotary Clubs for their continued support and of course IW Radio and the County Press for their continual coverage of the event.\r\n Fri, 21 Apr 2006 16:45:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Management-Committees.aspx There has been positive progress towards the full emparishment of the Island, with all five areas currently unparished - Ryde, Newport, Whippingham, Northwood and Carisbrooke all actively pursuing the establishment of a parish council. \r\nIn the interim ‘shadow’ councils, in the form of management committees, have been set up. The committees comprise local ward councillors and interested individuals who have gone through a recruitment process. The committees will be advisory to the Isle of Wight Council and will be run on similar lines to parish councils. All meetings will be open to the public and agendas and minutes can be found on the I.W. Councils website. Fri, 21 Apr 2006 17:03:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Landlords-Fair.aspx The Isle of Wight Council\\'s Housing Services department is holding a Landlords fair on the 26th April at the Riverside Centre. \r\nThe fair is aimed at any landlords on the island, or managing agents, that let out properties and may be affected by recent changes in Housing Legislation.\r\nThere will be a wealth of information on subjects including Fire Safety Legislation, HMO Licensing, Grants, Tenancy Deposit Schemes and the new landlords forum.\r\nThere will also be stalls from the following people: Southern Private Landlords Association, Housing Benefit, Housing Renewal Team, Homelessness Prevention and Fire Safety.\r\nIf you have any further questions about this event please contact Jacqui Foster on 01983 823040 / 821000 or email her at jacqueline.foster@iow.gov.uk Fri, 21 Apr 2006 17:04:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Are-you-up-to-The-Challenge.aspx The “Bouldnor (Soapbox Derby) Challenge”, now re-named \\"The Isle of Wight (Soapbox Derby) Challenge\\" is planned to take place on May 6th 2006 in Newport at the sports field adjoining the Downside Middle School on Furrlongs, Pan, The event is open to teams of 3 young people from all over the Island aged between 12 and 20 entered with go-carts they\\'ve built themselves or with help from parents, grand parents, youth club, etc. The event should be bigger and better than last year so complete your entry forms and start building your go-cart now.\r\n\r\nPhoto or Ist Place winners 2005 - The Adrenaline Junkies from Cowes High School\r\n\r\nPrizes and trophies will be awarded again to 10 of the top teams along with novelty prizes for a number of different categories including \\"Best Designed\\", \\"Fastest Cart\\", \\"Best Theme\\", Etc,\r\n\r\nThere will be entertainment, displays, side shows and food selllers at the event which should more than satisfy all the visitors and entrants need for nourishment and excitement in the lull between races. \r\n\r\nEntry to the event, (and parking), is FREE for visitors and competitors!!!!!!!\r\nIf you missed out last year now\\'s the time to act \r\n\r\nSpecifications\r\nConstruction\r\nThe soapbox must:\r\n• Be no longer than 2 metres and no wider than 1 metre\r\n• Have four wheels\r\n• Be capable of being steered\r\n• Utilise some form of inbuilt mechanism to provide braking power\r\n• Have no propulsion unit or system of any kind\r\n• Be strong enough to make at least 3 runs of the 100 metre course in competition\r\n• Be capable of running on a grass surface\r\n• Have no sharp or protruding corners, edges or objects liable to cause injury or damage\r\n\r\nNote: Possible places to get wheels and bits for your cart:\r\n\r\nIsland Waste on Forest Road, Newport\r\n\r\n\r\nLynn Bottom Tip at Arreton (They may make a charge for recycled bikes, usually around £5)\r\n Sun, 23 Apr 2006 00:58:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Shanklin-Resident-Joan-Running-Marathan-today.aspx Flora London Marathon’s runners will be out there today, pounding the capital’s streets in pursuit of personal pride, personal bests and as much publicity as they can muster in 26.2 miles – all in the aid of a good cause or three.\r\n\r\nBorn in Lancashire Shanklin Resident Joan Roberts has lived on the Island since December 1963. Mother of two grown up sons and two grandchildren, ages 5 and 3. Joan worked in the office of Archbishop King School for 17 years before retiring in 2002. Still involved with schools Joan is Clerk to Governors of Archbishop King Middle School and Shanklin CE Primary School. \r\n\r\nAt 70 years old keen athlete Joan has always been keen on sports but only started running 6 years ago. \r\n\r\nLast year she entered the London Marathon, finishing in 6 hours 21 minutes, Joan adds A respectable time for someone of my age, I have entered again this year as I gained a place in the ‘Good for your Age’ category”. \r\n \r\nJoan trains 5 days a week following a Training Programme from Runners World magazine. \r\n \r\nHer running partner Robert was not as fortunate in gaining a place in the public ballot and has obtained a Gold Bond place with the Charity ‘Help the Hospices’. For this he has to raise £1500 so she is helping him in his fund raising. \r\n \r\nDetails of the charity \\'Help the Hospices\\', can be found on a web site set up to aid with fundraising www.justgiving.com/JoanandRobert or tel 864299 Sun, 23 Apr 2006 01:29:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/The-future-is-bright-for-Laura-Michelle-Kelly..aspx Former Sandown High School actress and singer Laura Michelle Kelly sees her debut single There Was A Time and album The Storm Inside\r\nreleased on 1 May. \r\n \r\nRecorded in London last summer and released on Angel Records, her single has already been the most requested video on digital TV music station The Box and has received great reviews. The album also showcases Laura’s ability as a songwriter on ‘There Was A Time’, ‘Butterflies’ and ‘The Storm Inside’ - all warm and intimate pieces of work. The album also sees her working with songwriters including jazz pianist Jamie Cullum and Guy Chambers, \r\n \r\nA fabulous role model to our Islands young people, multi-talented 24 year-old Laura-Michelle Kelly attended Stagecoach (Performing Arts) at Shanklin Theatre and Gillian Cartwright\\'s Dancing School. Entertaining Islanders and holidaymakers in shows on Sandown Pier and Shanklin Theatre, including South Pacific, The King and I and Annie.\r\n \r\n Her first major West End role was understudying, and later playing the part of Belle in Disney\\'s \\'Beauty and the Beast\\' at the Dominion Theatre in London. Since then she has performed the roles of Eponine in \\'Les Miserables\\', Sophie Sheridan in \\'Mamma Mia!\\' at the Prince Edward, and as Eliza Doolittle in \\'My Fair Lady\\' and the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. \r\n Laura Michelle has featured in various galas and concerts, including performances at Her Majesty\\'s Theatre and the Palace Theatre. She was a featured guest star at the millennium celebrations at Arundel Castle, and performed for Sir David Frost at his 60th birthday party.\r\n Her television appearances include \\'Esther\\', the millennium \\'Songs of Praise\\' concert in Cardiff Arms Park, and the magazine show \\'Bedrock\\'. She recently won the BBC Radio 2 \\'Voice of Musical Theatre\\' competition.\r\n\r\nGet your diary and make a note of all of Laura\\'s upcoming TV and radio appearances so you don\\'t miss out!\r\n\r\nMonday 24th April\r\nRadio 2 - Interview with Steve Wright\r\n\r\nThursday 27th April\r\nB4 (Channel 4) - Video\r\n\r\nTuesday 2nd May\r\n GMTV (ITV)- Performance \\'There Was A Time\\'\r\n\r\nWednesday 3rd May\r\n The Wright Stuff (Channel 5) - Chat, review & video \r\n\r\nWednesday 3rd May\r\nChannel 5 News - Interview & Video\r\n Sun, 23 Apr 2006 01:50:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Hurries-Crowned-Champions-of-Hampshire-One.aspx Southampton brought a strong side to the island and from the kick off the Hurries, against the wind, were under constant pressure as the Southampton forwards forced play inside the Hurricanes\\' 22 metre line. Hurries survived a number of forward drives and managed to clear their line, forcing play to the oppositions 22 metres where they ran a series of penalties but to no avail. In the 23 minute the visitors continued their game plan and one of their locks crossed the line for a converted try, 0-7. Again on several occasions the Hurries fought their way up field but with no score. Wightlink man-of-the-match, winger Richard Henry, then made a try saving tackle in the corner. In the 46 minute the visitors added a penalty to leave the half time at 10-0 to the visitors.\r\n\r\nSubstitute and NatWest man-of-the-match, lock John Miselback joined the game, and made an immediate impact forcing an early penalty taken by Neil Buckingham 3-10. Replacements Dave Steele and Tommy Booth then joined the game and 5 minutes later Booth fed his captain Lee Priddle for an unconverted try 8-10. The visitors were now under constant pressure as the Hurries confidence grew. Scrum Half Paul Rickard, slipped up when over the try line and failed to touch the ball down. But soon after, Miselback ran a soloeffort in from 15 metres to score a try, converted again by Buckingham 15-10.\r\n\r\nAll the play was now in the visitors half with wave after wave of attacks, finally Buckingham finished of a slick three-quarter move going over for an unconverted try, FINAL SCORE 20-10.\r\n The large home crowd had witnessed history in the making at the fairway ground as the Hurricanes became the only Island rugby side to make it to the London leagues\r\n\r\nHurries will play their rugby next season in London South West Four.\r\n\r\nTeam\r\nPriddle (capt), Harris, G.Thomas, Holbrook, Dean, Birch, Rees, D.Thomas, Rickard, Edmonds, Morey, Plumb, Gasper, Henry, Buckingham, Subs; Miselback, Steele & Booth.\r\n Sun, 23 Apr 2006 20:56:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Isle-of-Wight-Economic-Partnership-Announces-Entrepreneur-Paul-Rudling-as-New-Chairman.aspx Paul has been a Board member of the IWEP since March 1999, championing the development of the composites sector and skills development for the industry. As Chairman of the IWEP, Mr Rudling will be taking a special interest in developing the technology and skills base of Island businesses and particularly encouraging businesses to concentrate on increasing productivity in line with the recommendations of the emerging economic strategy. Paul commented, “I believe one of the primary ways to generate new prosperity for the Island is to grow our own knowledge and technology based businesses – we need to make sure the Isle of Wight strives to be leading the field.”\r\n\r\n\r\nAs a fellow of the Institute of Materials and of the Royal Society of Art, Paul is also very keen on promoting excellence in design for all aspects of the development on the Island.”\r\n\r\n\r\nPaul takes over from outgoing Chairman of five years, Danny Fisher MBE, DL. Mr Fisher has taken a keen interest in the IWEP and particularly the Cowes Waterfront initiative which he championed from the very start almost 4½ years ago. Danny says, “I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenges of the past five years and will continue to sit on the IWEP Board. I am pleased to hand over the baton to Paul; he has extensive commercial experience and is committed to the Island for both lifestyle and business reasons. I have every confidence that he will continue the momentum and bring new ideas and expertise to the Island’s economy.”\r\n Mon, 24 Apr 2006 10:39:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Island-musicians-are-the-top-brass-across-the-south.aspx Unprecedented win for adult band on regional scene\r\n \r\nShanklin Town Brass Band has returned to the Island with a collection of trophies, after winning a regional music competition on Sunday 23rd April 2006.\r\n \r\nIn 2005, Shanklin\\'s Youth Band won their section at both annual regional contests. This year, the Senior Band led the way by scooping first prize in their adult section at the Spring Contest in Hove with a strong rendition of Alan Fernie\\'s Anglian Dances, and taking an array of other trophies at the same time.\r\n \r\nShanklin\\'s adult musicians have been improving on their results for a number of years, but this is the first time they won the Third Section at a Southern Counties Amateur Brass Association (SCABA) competition, against bands from across the region. An equally strong performance at the Autumn Contest in October could see promotion to the Second Section.\r\n \r\nTrophies were also awarded to Shanklin\\'s Principal Cornet, Tracey Bennett, for Best Instrumentalist, and Gareth Balch, for Best Conductor. The band complemented this by winning Best March Performance for The Standard of St George.\r\n \r\nGareth Balch, Head of Music at Solent Middle School, and the Band\\'s Soprano Cornet, took up the baton after Shanklin\\'s Musical Director Malcolm Lewis was unable to attend on this occasion due to ill health.\r\n \r\nThe Youth Band narrowly missed out on winning their section, but put in a focused performance of Ray Steadman-Allen\\'s Stantonbury Festival, with Lake Middle School pupil Hollie James, 13, leading the way on Principal Cornet.\r\n \r\nAfter hearing the results, Shanklin\\'s Musical Director Malcolm Lewis said: \\"Gareth has done a fantastic job preparing the bands for this competition, and his work has paid off. I am so pleased for all the musicians, and particularly for the Senior Band in winning their section.\r\n \r\n\\"This is the first time that an Island band has outright won a regional brass competition at an adult level - and hopefully the first of many. We will soon begin rehearsing to emulate this success at the Autumn Contest in October.\\"\r\n \r\nThis coming bank holiday weekend, Shanklin Town Brass Band can be heard jointly in concert with Ashbourne Town Band (Derbyshire) at St. Saviour\\'s Church in Shanklin, on Saturday 29th April at 8pm. Entry is free and all are welcome.\r\n \r\n\r\n \r\n Mon, 24 Apr 2006 12:00:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Bradings-Neighbourhood-First-Responder-Unit.aspx Neighbourhood First Responder are an exciting joint initiative between the\r\nAmbulance Service and St John Ambulance, established with the aim ot providing\r\na prompt and efficient response to potentially life-threatening emergencies.\r\n\r\nThe Responders are all volunteers who give freely of their own time to undertake an extensive training course, and then once trained, make themselves available to be sent to certain emergency calls in their local area. When people fall ill suddenly, they often need urgent medical attention, and time can be difference\r\nbetween life and death As the Responders are already in Brading, they will often\r\narrive ahead of the ambulance, and therefore are able to begin the essential\r\ntreatment process earlier. As an emergency ambulance is always sent at the same\r\ntime, it is clear that the Responder Scheme is an enhancement of, and not a\r\nreplacement for, the NHS Ambulance Service.\r\n\r\nThe Brading Unit was launched on the 4th April. Thankyou to all that have supported us. First Responders are self funding by means of donations and fund-raising.\r\nThere are three other teams on the Island in Bembridge, Brightstone and East Cowes.\r\n\r\nE. Callaghan\r\nBrading NFR co-ordinator\r\n\r\nAnyone interested in becoming a first responder please contact Ian Yeo 552145 / mobile 0790091263\r\n Mon, 24 Apr 2006 13:33:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Island-residents-travel-discounts..aspx From 1 April 2006, Island residents over 60 and eligible disabled residents can travel free any time, any day on all Southern Vectis routes, including open top tours. If you already have an Islander card, there is nothing you need to do. If you do not have an Islander card, just pop in to one of our travel shops with two passport-size photos, proof of age and a household bill showing your address.\r\n\r\nResidents between the ages of 5 and 19 in full-time education can travel for 50p per single ride (including journeys requiring a change of bus) any time, any day, with a valid Student Rider card. These can be obtained from schools and IW College. Mon, 24 Apr 2006 13:43:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/SANDS-SALUTED-AS-SHORE-CURE-FOR-STRESS.aspx The answer to two of our country\\'s biggest health problems could lie – in the sand.\r\n\r\nSo say campaigners Keep Britain Tidy who have published a list of our cleanest rural beaches where young and old can get fit and beat stress beside the sea.\r\n\r\nAnd backing their drive to get out, walk about and chill out is A&E doctor and Radio One broadcaster, Mark Hamilton. Said Mark: \\"The best way to start getting healthy is to do ten to fifteen minutes light exercise a day and a brisk walk can improve lung capacity and help the heart work more effectively. With around five million people a year suffering from anxiety, the psychological benefits of being in quiet surroundings are also important.\\"\r\n\r\nAccording to research by Keep Britain Tidy, around half of beachgoers like to visit the coastline for a walk and a nice lunch – whatever time of year. These are mainly older, professional people with grown-up children. Families enjoy the beach too because it gives their kids room to run about and play.\r\n\r\n\\"The great strength of our coastline is that it has so many different things to offer\\" said Alan Woods, Chief Executive of Keep Britain Tidy. \\"But while people visit it for a myriad of different reasons they insist on good facilities and clean sands when they get there – and that’s just what they’ll get at our recommended beaches.\\"\r\n\r\nApart from being given a clean bill of health for the state of their sands, those celebrated also have proper access, clean toilets and good health and safety provision. The water has been assessed too by the Environment Agency – and is clean enough to paddle in. From Formby in Merseyside with its country park close-by to the idyllic seaside Suffolk town of Aldeburgh, all of the beaches offer a reminder of how picturesque the English coastline can be.\r\n\r\nWhich is why Alan Woods wants those who manage our seaside to start plugging our rural – and resort – beaches with more confidence.\r\n\r\nContinued Alan Woods: \\"I think we have banished the tacky image of dirty sands, clapped-out amenities and polluted water to the dustbin of history – and people are genuinely enjoying our coastline again. But we need to celebrate the diversity of our seaside more aggressively and push it as a place where you can enjoy everything from a morning catching the surf to a lively night out on the town.\r\n\r\nThat is why we are developing a new award which will sign post visitors to the kind of beach they’re looking for. And I have no doubt that many of those we are celebrating as rural havens today, will feature prominently when we announce them next summer.\\"\r\n\r\nThe ten rural beaches receiving the 2006 awards are:\r\n\r\n\r\nColwell bay\r\nCowes, East\r\nCowes, West\r\nGurnard\r\nSeagrove\r\nSpringvale\r\nSt Helens\r\nTotland\r\nVentnor\r\nYaverland\r\n Mon, 24 Apr 2006 13:59:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/st-john-ambulance-county-presentation-evening.aspx Awards to all.\r\n\r\nThis year’s annual St John Ambulance County Presentation evening, being held at the Riverside Centre, Newport, on Wednesday, 26th April 2006 from 7p.m., will have an extra element of pleasure for the organisation.\r\nApart from Certificates to 27 members, recognising and valuing their 21500 hours of service to the island community during 2005, there will be medals awarded to 14 members in recognition of their collective 320 years of voluntary service to St John Ambulance. Presentations are to be made to four St John Cadets who have earned the Grand Prior Award, the highest accolade available to them. Several Cadets will also be enrolled and a Warrant of Appointment will be awarded to the new Superintendent of Newport Division.\r\nThe extra element will be the attendance of Mr MARTIN INCE, Senior Programme Manager for ISLE OF WIGHT INDUSTRIAL GROUP TRAINING SERVICES. He is presenting a £1200:00 (twelve hundred pounds) cheque to enable the island’s St John Ambulance to purchase much needed I.T. equipment.\r\nAs the local St John CEO, COLIN PALMERTON, explains\r\n“As part of the UK’s leading First Aid Training provider, we have increasing demand for our expanding range of Courses. Many of which are held at locations on the island with no computer links. This need was recognised by ‘IWIGTS’ and their generous gift will allow us to meet these challenges”.\r\n\r\nEarlier this year, St John Ambulance made a successful bid for £1300:0 of IT equipment from CONNEXIONS with the equipment already being used for the benefit of St John Cadet Divisions throughout the Island.\r\n Mon, 24 Apr 2006 14:28:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/England-Beach-Soccer-heads-for-Birmingham.aspx England Beach Soccer is set to take a massive step forward this June 2006 with its involvement in the largest sand sports event ever to be held in Birmingham UK.\r\nEngland Beach Soccer is teaming up with T- Mobile and Birmingham City Council to create a month long sand sports extravaganza in one of the UK’s largest cities. It is set to coincide with the football World Cup with all matches being shown on enormous screens within the T-Mobile Fan Park. Here you will find the largest gathering of England fans simultaneously enjoying the spectacular display that is beach soccer.\r\nThe event culminates with a three day International Exhibition Tournament ( teams to be announced shortly), the first International Event to be held in the UK since Brighton 2003. This will of course give our up and coming England players the opportunity to show off their skills to a home crowd and get in shape for international duties this summer. It will also help to massively raise the profile of beach soccer in the UK and take it to a whole new level.\r\nThe majority of the action on the sand throughout the month will be amateur with parties, bands and dancers being lined up for the evenings.\r\nThere will be loads of opportunities for local players to become involved with coaching, refereeing and of course participation.\r\n\r\nSee You On The Sand!!\r\n\r\nwww.ftpbeachsoccer.com Tue, 25 Apr 2006 07:25:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/The-Wight-Extreme-Hike-Mega-Garage-Sale.aspx The Wight Extreme Hike Mega Garage Sale took place on Saturday 22 April 2006 and raised a total of £1,610.56 of money for the appeal \r\n\r\nWith fine weather and a good number of people attending the event looked as if the day would raise a substantial amount of money and this turned out to be so. \r\n\r\nOur thanks to all those who attended and bought goods from the sale and supported the appeal. \r\n\r\nThe team would also like to thank all the volunteers from the Wessex Cancer Trust at Freshwater and the many staff of the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service who turned out support the appeal. \r\n\r\nThe total raised to date for the appeal stands at £2,530.56.\r\n\r\nYou can sponsor the team and donate securely online here, via justgiving.com. \r\n\r\nThe Wight Extreme Hike is being undertaken to raise money for the Wessex Wight Appeal from the Wessex Cancer Trust, which is raising funds for the Isle of Wight Chemotherapy Unit. The challenge is for a team of Firefighters from Green Watch, Isle of Wight Fire &Rescue Service, Newport Fire Station, Isle of Wight, to walk around the shoreline (a distance of approximately 72 miles)of the Isle of Wight over three days.\r\n\r\nDay One of the Wight Extreme Hike - Cowes to Freshwater\r\nThe walk will start off on West Cowes parade with the team going anti-clockwise towards Alum Bay. The coastline from Gurnard to Newtown and Hampstead is very muddy with lots of tangled tree roots to add to the fun! The intention is to arrive at Alum bay in the early afternoon then get round the headland during the late afternoon when hopefully the water will be calmer. There are a few stretches along the way that will undoubtedly involve a swim but a least that will clean off some of the mud. The first day will end once the team have reached Freshwater bay.\r\n\r\nDay Two of the Wight Extreme Hike - Freshwater to Yaverland \r\nThe second day will start at Freshwater bay and the team will head along Compton beach, to Whale chine and Blackgang. This stretch is actually quite arduous because a lot of the beach is loose shingle and saps your energy very effectively. Nitons coastline is very rocky and it gets no better towards St.Lawrence, Ventnor and Bonchurch but at least there is an easy stretch along Sandown and Shanklins seafront. The second day will end in Yaverland and as long as the team are not eaten by Tigers from the zoo they will be fresh for day three!!\r\n\r\nDay Three of the Wight Extreme Hike - Yaverland to Cowes \r\nDay three starts with a stiff legged march round Culver cliffs and into Whitecliff bay, from there round Lane end to Bembridge and on past St.Helens and Seaview to Ryde for an Ice-cream and a cup of tea! Assuming any of the team have not been washed away by the sea, been buried under a cliff fall or broken their neck tripping over tree roots they will plod through the mud of Wootten and drag themselves to East Cowes where they will enjoy the luxury of the floating bridge! \r\nThe final stage is the gentle walk down through Cowes town accompanied by hoards of people collecting money for this great cause.\r\n\r\nThe Island really needs the Chemotherapy Unit so please support us with this challenge and sponsor us. \r\n\r\nContact for the Wight Extreme Hike - Jason Butchers (telephone: 01983 755 484) - Ryan Copeland (telephone:07813 469 051), Green Watch, Newport Fire Station, Isle of Wight :telephone:01983 525 121\r\n(Isle of Wight Fire Control)or email: info@firefighterchallenge.co.uk.\r\nFor further information on the Firefighter Challenge for the Wessex Wight Appeal contact June Ring, Wessex Cancer Trust : telephone 01983 755 652, e-mail\r\njune@firefighterchallenge.co.uk.\r\n\r\nwww.firefighterchallenge.co.uk\r\n Tue, 25 Apr 2006 07:48:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/The-Park-Centre-on-course-for-groups-and-classes.aspx Today sees the Launch of the new Park Centre, in High Park Road, Ryde is already expanding into a thriving Community Centre. The Computer Learning Suite and Internet Café will now be attached to a real Café serving lunches, tea and coffee every weekday between 12–4pm..\r\n\r\nThe Centre is open weekdays between 9am. and 5pm. “If you have any ideas or suggestions about what classes you would like us to establish, pop in and let us know” said Chris Hughes, the Centres Activities Organiser “If others show an interest we will endeavour to provide that class for you”.\r\n\r\nNew attractions that are starting during May are courses including Art for Beginners, Intermediate Art, Poetry Reading and Appreciation, Keep Fit for the Unfit, Introduction to Computers and Digital Imaging. The Digital Imaging course is aimed at people who want to get the best results from their digital cameras and software and is being run in conjunction with the Island Photography Centre of Ryde & Newport. Barry Kemp the Project Manager said “We are delighted that the users have asked us to provide these courses and thanks to a link up with the IW Council’s Culture & Leisure Services, Adult & Community Learning, we are able to”. \r\n\r\nPlans have been drawn up to convert, subject to funding, another part of the premises creating a games room, complete with pool table, office space and a meeting/lecture room. Other events that are planned include a Table Top Sale on Thursday 18th May from 6pm. to book your table ring now on 611913 and Cash Bingo on Thursday 1st June at 7pm with refreshments available at both events. \r\n\r\nThe Park Centre\r\nNew Events for May include;\r\n\r\n 8/05/06 10-11 Keep Fit for the Unfit\r\n 8/05/06 10 -12 Introduction to Computers\r\n 9/05/06 9;30-10;30 Poetry group\r\n10/05/06 10–12 Digital Image Editing\r\n11/05/06 9;30–10;30 Introduction to Art\r\n11/05/06 11- 12 Intermediate Art\r\n15/05/06 10-11 Keep Fit for the Unfit\r\n15/05/06 10–12 Introduction to Computers\r\n16/05/06 9;30-10;30 Poetry Group\r\n17/05/06 10–12 Digital Image Editing\r\n18/05/06 9;30–10;30 Introduction to Art\r\n18/05/06 11–12 Intermediate Art\r\n18/05/06 18–20 Table Top Sale\r\n22/05/06 10-11 Keep Fit for the Unfit\r\n22/05/06 10–12 Introduction to Computers\r\n23/05/06 9;30-10;30 Poetry Group\r\n24/05/06 10–12 Digital Image Editing\r\n25/05/06 9;30–10;30 Introduction to Art\r\n25/05/06 11–12 Intermediate Art\r\n30/05/06 9;30-10;30 Poetry Group\r\n31/05/06 10–12 Digital Image Editing\r\nRemember!!!\r\nThe Café @ The Centre\r\nIs open every week day between 12 – 4pm. Lunches - Light Snacks - or a Coffee and a Chat.\r\n\r\n Tue, 25 Apr 2006 13:06:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/IW-CHAMBER-OF-COMMERCE-HOSTS-COACH-DISCUSSION.aspx On Thursday 20 April the Isle of Wight Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting with representatives of the Island\\'s business community and IW Council leader Andy Sutton to answer queries concerning his recent remarks about the value of the coach industry to the Island\\'s economy.\r\n\r\nFollowing a positive discussion it was established that the remarks made were taken out of context and Andy Sutton assured those present that he does recognise the significant contribution some sections of this sector bring to the Island\\'s economy. He stated that the IW Council very much welcomed high value coach visitors to quality destinations here on the Island.\r\n\r\nBoth the IW Council and the IW Chamber of Commerce advocate working together to increase the quality of the visitor experience which is part of the Island\\'s long term tourism strategy., As a direct result of this meeting, and to demonstrate goodwill, the IW Council has agreed to extend the current 4 day coach parking permit to seven days at the same rate of £60 and will shortly be announcing a complete re-structuring of coach parking charges on the Island. Tue, 25 Apr 2006 13:43:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Carisbrooke-and-Gunville-News.aspx There is some major concern at the state of the boundary wall of Carisbrooke Church which separates the churchyard from the High St. Moisture caught behind the cement cannot evaporate and is so hard it can break up the stone in extremes \r\nof frost. This could explain the recent collapse into the road following heavy rain. The whole high wall is now becoming a danger to traffic passing beneath. Gunville Community Association continues to progress with more events and more fundraising and publicity success. “Nellies” the\r\nWednesday afternoon tea and cake club at the Methodist Church Hall continues from 2pm to 4pm. Once a month it becomes a surgery for the local police and once a month becomes a film\r\nafternoon. As the evenings lengthen the movies will move to evening slots - please keep an eye on the notice board outside.\r\nThe Community Garden continues to take shape. Thanks to the redevelopment of the Savoy Country Club near Yarmouth they\r\ngave the association the needed garden furniture.\r\nUrsula Gray, the inspirational Secretary who won a Year of the Volunteer Award last year managed to publicise her latest\r\nfundraising “biggest pair of knickers on the Island” sale on Radio Solent in a broadcast from Southampton Cricket Club. For more\r\ninformation on any of the above or the mobile library, dog bins or fridge disposal please ‘phone Ursula on 07813 705184 or Martin\r\nCooper on 529697.\r\n\r\nA major housing development at Gunville has been turned down by IW Council’s planning committee. The officers had recommended\r\nconditional permission for about fifty new houses on almost a hectare of land between 69 and 87 Gunville Road. The plan required the demolition of two houses to create access to the road.\r\nThe councillors refused on hearing from the Environment Agency that the sewers are already working to capacity and that Gunville stream is already polluted through faulty drainage connections. Sat, 29 Apr 2006 14:56:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/IOW-CUP-VICTORY-OF-SHANKLIN-FC.aspx Shanklin Football Club has triumphed at the end of the season by winning the Isle of Wight\\'s top league title. \r\n \r\nShanklin FC beat second place West Wight 2-0 over the Easter weekend to secure the top place in Division One by just a single point.\r\n \r\nIn the previous week the team won the County Press Challenge Cup. \r\n \r\nThe winning team consisted of the players Dawson, Tuck, New, Fleming, S. Dye, Rust, Seabrook, Williams, Hooker, Grant, Przespolewski. (Substitute Hatch.)\r\n \r\nThis is the first time that Shanklin has won Division One in its one hundred and four years. Sat, 29 Apr 2006 14:56:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Sandown-High-School-Hand-bell-Team.aspx You may have seen on the front page of the county press an article about a couple in their 80’s who met at the Earl Mountbatten Hospice whilst both recovering from cancer. Their friendship blossomed and they decided to get married. One thing the bride loved was church bells and she would have liked to have had them playing at the wedding. Unfortunately, the church they were getting married in East Cowes did not have church bells. However, the lady organising the wedding had heard of the Sandown High School Hand bell Team and approached Mrs Glanville, the music teacher at Sandown High School, to see if they could play for the wedding. She put it to the students and they willingly agreed. The students normally practice once a week after school but such was their commitment that they included some extra practices and organised their Easter Holidays around the wedding so that they could fulfil this special request for a special couple. \r\n\r\nThe hand bell team played while the guests arrived at the wedding service and also after as they were leaving. The comments afterwards showed how much their contribution was appreciated. It is so fantastic that these young people could put themselves out for a special couple very much more senior in years. It was a very moving occasion to be part of.\r\n\r\nfrom Janet Harley\r\n\r\n Sat, 29 Apr 2006 14:57:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Sandown-Community-Big-Top-Theatre.aspx An Awards for All lottery grant has greatly helped finance the Sandown Community Big Top Theatre 8 day long festival in Sandown at the end of July, to coincide with Sandown Carnival and the beginning of the school holidays.\r\n\r\nFor those who have not heard of Sandown Community Big Top Theatre, they are a group managed by local Sandown people, working in conjunction with Sandown Town Council, Sandown Community Partnership and many local organisations, with the aim to promote \\"Sandown\\" and provide an annual event for everybody in Sandown as well as visitors to the town, to be involved in.\r\n\r\nThe 8 day festival will host many different events and activities that will appeal to all sections of the community. There will be live entertainment, from local bands and tribute bands to theatrical shows and all action wrestling. There will also be workshops and activities which younger children can become a part of.\r\nThe whole event is to take place underneath a big-top style marquee which is to be erected for the duration of the festival on Sandham grounds.\r\n\r\nAs part of the festival, the organisers would like to give any group, organisation, charity, or local business the opportunity to \\"show off to the rest of Sandown and our visitors exactly what it is they do what they can offer to people, and how they can benefit Sandown and be an important part of the life of the town.\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\nTo this end, Sandown Community Big Top Theatre are hosting an Exhibition Day as part of the festival. This is to be on Friday 28th July. The exhibition will run from 12pm on that day to 5pm, with the general public being allowed entry between 1pm and 4pm with no entrance charge for the public. The organisers are prepared to offer up to 3 tables to any organisation or business who wishes to take part, with only a small donation or fee. Tables and electricity will also be provided by request. For small organisations the event will be free larger organisations will be asked to make a 5.00 donation if they are able to and Businesses will be asked to pay 15.00 for each exhibition space they wish to use,\r\nThe event will be fully published in conjunction with all the other activities that will occur and there will also be the opportunity for exhibitors to be included in a special brochure for the day\\'s event.\r\n\r\nIf you, your organisation or group, or your business would like to be part of this event, an application form is available.\r\nWe hope this will be a real opportunity for everyone in Sandown to show off what a wonderful place Sandown is to live in.\r\n\r\nTelephone Jacquie for info on Big Top on Tel 404415.\r\n Sun, 30 Apr 2006 00:18:0 GMT http://www.iwbeacon.com/news/Is-your-village-vibrant,-enterprising-and-caring.aspx Does it make the most of local opportunities? Is it in need of a boost? \r\n\r\nIf the answer is yes to any of these questions then your community should be contesting one of the county village competitions in England. Scenic beauty is not important. What matters is care and achievement. The competitive experience is a great way of bringing a community together. \r\n\r\nVillages throughout the county with a population of 6,000 and under are being reminded not to leave it too late if they want to enter the 2006 Calor Hampshire Village of the Year competition. Information and entry forms went out to villages back in February encouraging them to enter and the deadline is coming up on 31st May 2006.\r\n\r\nThe competition is organised by the Hampshire Association of Parish and Town Councils (HAPTC) and sponsored by Calor in association with Defra, with additional support from Hampshire\\'s district councils. The entry form for 2006 has been made easier to encourage more entries. Competition organiser on behalf of HAPTC, Steven Lugg, commented: “I want to encourage as many communities as possible to enter, particularly those that haven\\'t taken part in either competition before. We\\'re not looking for ‘perfect’ villages so don’t be afraid to have a go. Entering the competition can be a very positive activity for a community – bringing people together and engendering community spirit. The closing date for entries is approaching, but there is still time for villages to take part if they act now.” One new exciting development is the Community Publication of the Year Award being sponsored by Greenhouse Graphics of Bramley, near Basingstoke and open to all ‘geographical communities’ and ‘communities of interest’ in Hampshire. With £650 available in prizes for this aspect of the competition alone, there have never been so many good reasons for entering.\r\n\r\nThe competition judges communities on six aspects of village life with categories in Building Community Life, Business, Young People, Older People, Environment and Information Communication Technology (ICT) and entries are invited from any community group – it doesn’t have to be through the parish council. Cash prizes of £400 and £200 are on offer to the overall winner and runner up respectively. In addition there is £500 prize money specifically for the Building Community Life category, which has been made available thanks to continued competition support from Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) at both county and national level. This will be split between a winner, which will receive £300, and a runner up, which will receive £200. There is also an award of £100 for the Best Small Village (population 500 and under), and a schools’ poster competition with a prize of £100 for the winning poster, which will also be used to promote the county competition next year.\r\n\r\nNew for 2006 is an added element to the competition at district level. A winning village in each of Hampshire’s seven districts will be selected and will receive a plaque. The following four District and Borough Councils are joint competition sponsors for their own areas; Basingstoke & \r\nDeane Borough Council, East Hampshire District Council, Test Valley District Council and Winchester County Council.\r\n\r\nThe overall winning village (according to eligibility) will have the added honour of being nominated to go forward and represent the county in the prestigious Calor Village of the Year® for England compet