Beacon Magazine
Features
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Inshore Lifeboat Centre to Mark RNLI's 200th Birthday
This year marks the Royal National Lifeboat Institution’s 200th anniversary – and to celebrate, events will go on all year.
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Newport Bombing Victim Officially Recognised by Common Wealth War Graves Commission
More than 80 years after eight Luftwaffe planes dropped bombs on Newport, a campaign to have one man officially recognised as a victim, has finally been successful.
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Five Isle of Wight Dancers to Represent England in Global Dance Open Finals
Five young dancers from the Isle of Wight have been chosen to represent England in a prestigious dance competition in The Netherlands this summer.
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NEW COMPETITION: Win A Luxury Hamper For National Pet Day
To celebrate National Pet Day Today (April 11), we're offering you the chance to win a luxury hamper of treats for your pet - just have a go at our Facebook competition!
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Schools Walk The Wight is Back
After a record-breaking year, Walk the Wight is back for 2024 on Sunday 12 May 2024.
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How a Popular Ryde Shop Helps Buyers Reduce, Re-use and Recycle
As people become more and more conscious about the products they buy –and how it might affect the environment, we take a look at a popular Ryde shop, which makes it easy for buyers to reduce, reuse and recycle!
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Summer Dates Announced For Ryde's Big Beach Weekender
Following a year out due to the closure of Robin Hill last year, it has been confirmed that The Woodland Sessions will relaunch this summer as The Big Beach Weekender.
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Isle Of Wight Red Squirrel Hotspots To Look Out For This Easter
Easter is a particularly good time to look for red squirrels on the Isle of Wight as natural food sources are becoming more abundant and they are anxious to build up their strength and fat reserves after winter.
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Purple Twist For Newport's Annual Aspire Easter Duck Race
This year's Aspire duck race will take place on Saturday March 30 at Shide Trees, Newport, with a 1pm start time.
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NEW COMPETITION: Win A £50 M&S Voucher
It's fair to say everyone deserves a treat right now, so we've got a £50 M&S voucher for someone to enjoy - just give us a like or follow on our Facebook page...
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Understanding Mental Health
Adele Trathan explores understanding and recognising mental health issues and ways to access help.
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Totland Reflections: The Creation of a Seaside Resort
The Freshwater & Totland Archive Group is a self-funded voluntary group set up in 2010. Its aim is to establish an easily accessible archive to encourage public interest in our local history and provide a valuable community resource.
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Freshwater Bookshop Shortlisted For Prestigious National Award
An Isle of Wight bookshop has made the shortlist to win a prestigious national award.
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Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival Raises Over £6,000 To Help Island Charities in 2023
The Brighstone Christmas Tree Festival organisers have announced that the 2023 event raised a total of more than £6,000, with donations to be made to selected charitable causes, across the Island.
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MBE Honour For Mountbatten Chief Nigel
A prominent figure in the Isle of Wight charity sector has celebrated receiving an accolade for his contributions to the local community.
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The Little Sweep Remembered On Valentine’s Day
A poignant gathering was held in Newport's Church Litten on Valentine’s Day to remember ‘The Little Sweep’ Valentine Gray.
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Get Fit by Joining a Regular Social Running Group
Newport’s dedicated running shop, Love Running, started a social running group a decade ago, initially aimed at less confident runners who wanted to take on a regular run with other like-minded people in a relaxed and friendly environment.
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Entries For 2024 Round The Island Race Now Open
The Island Sailing Club (ISC) has announced entries are now open for the 2024 edition of Britain’s Favourite Yacht Race, the Round the Island Race, which is being held on Saturday June 15.
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History: The Mystery of The Maybricks
As part of the Walking Festival, Aspire volunteer, Julie Croydon, leads the ‘Lost Crypt’ history walk around Ryde dressed as Florence Chandler Maybrick.
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Feed An Isle Of Wight Family This Christmas
‘Feed a Family’ – an initiative by Aspire Ryde, with support from Isle of Wight Radio – will relaunch next week.
Local Community News
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Chillerton And Gatcombe Scarecrow Festival 2024
The award-winning Chillerton And Gatcombe Scarecrow festival returns from May 25 to June 1.
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Grant Funds Open For Isle Of Wight Charities And Not For Profit Groups
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF) has two dedicated grant funds currently open to Island-based community groups and small charities operating at a grassroots level.
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Newport Care Home Residents Enjoy Afternoon 'Horsing Around' Thanks To Island Riding Centre
Residents of a Newport care home were treated to a special day out courtesy of the Island Riding Centre this week.
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Night Charity Run Dash In The Dark Returning To Seaclose Park
A popular night-time charity 5km fun run is returning to Seaclose Park, Newport, on Saturday 5 October, to raise vital funds for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
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Equestrian Success For Isle Of Wight Trio
An Island-based equestrian star has made her mark on the national stage — with a little help from her friends.
Food and Drink
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Recipe: Simple Fish Curry
Cooking a curry from scratch can feel a little daunting but this traditional Burmese recipe is really easy. Lightly spiced, warming and stunningly simple, this curry is one you’ll return to again and again
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Recipe: Chocolate Peanut Buttercups
The dreamy combination of chocolate and peanut butter is indulgent and decadent so the perfect treat for Easter. These little beauties contain only a few ingredients (with a vegan option) and are quick and super easy to make
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Recipe: Prune and Orange Hot Cross Buns
As a master baker and judge of ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery, Peter Sidwell knows a thing or two about hot cross buns, as this fragrant and delicious recipe testifies.
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Elvis Pancakes: With Bacon, Bananas & Peanut Butter
Named after the King of Rock, Elvis Presley – as they contain his favourite ingredients of bacon, bananas and peanut butter – these pancakes are packed with protein and nutrients. They’re also very easy to make.
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Five Pancake Toppings You Need To Try For Pancake Day
Elevate your pancake game with these five irresistible toppings that will add a burst of flavour and excitement to your pancake day...
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Recipe: Choux Hearts with Berries
Celebrity MasterChef contestant Lisa Faulkner knows full well that food is the language of love. So, what better way to woo your beloved on Valentine’s Day than with these stunning choux hearts?
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Recipe: Truffled Macaroni & Smoked Haddock Bake
Want something that combines supreme comfort with a little decadence? Well look no further than this divine truffled macaroni dish with an extra boost from smoked haddock
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Recipe: Nigel Slater's Lamb Hotpot
We’re getting to that time of the year when rustic food comes packed with extra appeal.
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Recipe: Roasted Turkey Legs with Cranberries and Oranges
If you fancy something a little different on Christmas Day and don’t want to be bothered with cooking a whole turkey, this one-pot twist by Mary Goodwell is a vibrant, zesty dish that will delight your guests.
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10 Eye-Catching Cocktails to Try This Christmas
The countdown to Christmas is officially on and the creativity is pouring out with everything from delicious desserts to eye-catching cocktails.
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'Ever So Easy' Beef Bourguignon Recipe
This simple recipe by Adele Trathan virtually cooks itself, but it is deliciously succulent and flavoursome. It’s ideal for a wholesome meal when you don’t want to be slaving over a hot stove.
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Coffee & Chocolate Banana Bread
This recipe by Mary Goodsell takes banana bread to a new level with the added flavours of chocolate and coffee. Soft and moist, it's a delicious mid-morning snack with a cup of coffee.
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Recipe: Crispy Tofu with Sweet and Sour Peppers and Pineapple
Packed with veggies, this delicious vegan option offers the best of both flavours with its sweetness from the pineapple and tang from the vinegar.
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Recipe: Black Forest Yoghurt Bark
This recipe by Mary Goodsell is delicious eaten straight from the freezer. It is an easy, protein filled snack that will also hit that sweet spot!
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Lunchbox Ideas Everyone Will Love
As another academic year begins, we’ve been giving our lunchbox ideas a refresh.
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Recipe: Chinese-Style Glazed Pork Belly
This Sunday (22nd) marks Chinese New Year. So we’re tucking in to a traditional Chinese dish, to celebrate the year of the rabbit!
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Recipe: Spicy Barbecue Sizzlers
Some like it hot, so sizzle your ribs and chicken with these BBQ sauces. I hope you find these recipes melt-in-your-mouth incredible!
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Kids Zone: Ice Cream Recipe
Turn an average summer’s day into a fun ice cream parlour adventure with this fun and easy homemade ice cream in a jar recipe, says Sara Whatley.
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Coconut, Blueberry & Lemon No Bake Cheesecake
This cheesecake uses coconut yoghurt and plenty of zesty lemon for a healthier, lighter version of what tastes like a very decadent dessert
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Recipe: Asian Chicken Salad
Mary Goodsell’s salad makes a scrumptious summery lunchtime meal and is also a great option if catering for lots of people. It’s perfect with leftover roasted chicken, making it very quick to assemble.
The John Hannam Archive
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John Hannam Meets Annette Badland
Back in 1981 when Bergerac first came to BBC TV, it was no surprise when John Nettles received sack loads of fan mail. I, like millions of other men, rather fell for the more rubenesque charms of the Bureau receptionist Charlotte, played by the gorgeous Annette Badland.
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When John Hannam Met Jane McDonald
There are days in your life that you will never forget. One of mine was September 26th, 2006, when I met up again with Jane McDonald. Her welcoming hug and comforting words were just what I needed
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John Hannam meets Bill Wyman
Fifty one years after I first saw Bill Wyman appearing at a Rolling Stones concert at Ryde Pavilion, I finally managed to meet him.
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When John Hannam Did the Corrie Tour
Back in 2001 I took an exciting 21 hour day trip to Weatherfield. I was expecting to undertake a couple of interviews with two of Coronation Street’s lesser known characters. Thankfully, it didn’t go to plan. Once the two interviews were completed and the press office girls had left, I was told to sit tight for a few minutes and see who might come in. Over the next hour, six of the most famous faces in Britain came in and were all eager to chat.
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A Day to Remember with Sheridan Smith
Saturday June 30th, 2012, was rather special in my 47 year career as a showbiz writer and broadcaster. I still call it my Sheridan Smith day.
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A Day to Remember with Barbara Windsor
Back in 1988, John Hannam interviewed Barbara Windsor – and this was long before Albert Square.
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John Hannam meets Shaun Williamson
When Shaun Williamson was filling shelves in a Maidstone supermarket his ambition was to be like Richard Burton. Eventually, via Pontins in Wootton, 1986, he became Barry Evans, who for eight years was one of EastEnders’ most popular characters.
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John Hannam meets Joe McFadden
Life has been wonderfully unpredictable for Scottish actor Joe McFadden. Before winning Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, he’d been a rock star in Sex, Chips & Rock ‘n’ Roll, cast as maverick cop, Joe Mason in Heartbeat and surgeon Raf di Lucca in Holby City.
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Gwen Taylor: An interview with Beacon's John Hannam
Gwen Taylor is one of those actors known for a wide variety of names — Amy Pearce from Duty Free, Barbara Liversidge in Barbara, Heartbeat’s Peggy Armstrong, Rita Simcock from A Bit Of A Do or even murderer, Anne Foster, from Coronation Street.
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David Calder tells John Hannam why he loves the Isle of Wight
Over the years, top actors like Celia Imrie, Benedict Cumberbatch, Penelope Keith and Geoffrey Hughes have all fallen in love with the Island. The latest to join them is David Calder, whose credits include The World Is Not Enough, The Hatton Garden Job and The Lady In The Van.
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Tessa Peake-Jones: An interview with John Hannam
During the final ten days before the lockdown, I’d been lucky enough to have pre-arranged five interviews. It was in Guildford on a very wet and miserable March day. Would she be like Raquel in Only Fools And Horses or Mrs Maguire in Grantchester?
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Celia Imrie: An Interview with John Hannam
John caught up with the star of stage and screen, who talks of recent film projects and fond memories of when the Island was her home.
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Fred Dinenage: An Interview with John Hannam
Famous radio DJ Annie Nightingale has helped numerous popstars enhance their careers by playing their music.
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Dame Judi Dench meets John Hannam
On July 7th, completely out of the blue, I received an unexpected email from a guy called Neil Chandler, the venue and artistic director of the Fairfield Halls in Croydon, which was re-opening following a £42 million redevelopment.
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Call the Midwife's Helen George meets John Hannam
Helen George has millions of fans as Trixie Franklin in hit television series, Call The Midwife. She's just been seen in the show's Christmas Special and is all set to appear later this year in the ninth series.
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Marti Pellow: An Interview with John Hannam
Back on Sunday, February 17th 1991, I had the thrill of having the Beverley Sisters live on IW Radio's John Hannam Meets. At the end of their slot, I asked them to choose a record by their favourite current singer. In total harmony, they all said Marti Pellow and predicted a long and successful career for him. At that time he was the lead singer of Wet Wet Wet. How right they were.
Home and Gardens
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Blooming Times: Dahlia Mania
Inexpensive, hardworking plants with blooms in a vast array of colours and shapes - no flower is perfect, but dahlias come pretty close, says Flo Whitaker
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How to Create 3D Walls in Your Home
Create walls that look incredible and feel amazing too with the use of 3D wall panels. Sara Whatley looks at this feature wall phenomenon.
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Blooming Times: Spring Fever
February is often labelled the cruellest month in the horticultural calendar. However, Flo Whitaker suggests there is still plenty of opportunity for growth
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Blooming Times: What's in a Name?
Botanical Latin may seem daunting, but it’s designed to be helpful and informative, says Flo Whitaker
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Top 10 Garden Birds to Spot on the Isle of Wight
Alice Johnson from the RSPB describes some of the species of birds you might see during the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch this January.
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The Best Christmas Gifts for Gardeners
Thinking about a Christmas present for a gardening friend? Or perhaps you’re anticipating a gardening gift voucher and fancy treating yourself? Flo Whitaker suggests some essential hand tools that won’t break the bank.
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Gardening: The Benefits of Hedges
Gardeners are a flower-obsessed lot, greedily seeking out the latest, brightest blooms. That’s all very well, but ephemeral flowers need a stage to perform on. Plant a hedge - they add structure, benefit wildlife and look good all year round.
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How to Create a Happy Home Workspace
Getting the right home office set up can be key to productivity and happiness. Sara Whatley shares her workspace ideas.
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Now's the Time to Plant Alliums for a Spectacular Display Next Year
Easy-going and beloved by bees – now’s the perfect time to plant allium bulbs for a spectacular display next year. Flo Whitaker picks some of her favourites...
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Gardening Facts or Fictions?!
The horticultural world abounds with bad advice and old wife’s tales, but some pronouncements are scientifically sound, says Flo Whitaker, as she asks, “True, or false?”
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Fill The Gaps in Your Garden With Stunning Shrubs
If your garden’s looking parched and bare, why not invest in a few shrubs to fill the gaps. Flo Whitaker picks six of the best for late summer colour.
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Summer in the Garden: The Alan Titchmarsh Column
This month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses an array of wildlife we may not expect to see in our gardens over the summer months.
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Grow Your Own Strawberries
Nothing evokes summer more than the scent and taste of strawberries. Their botanical name is ‘Fragaria’ – how utterly perfect, writes Flo Whitaker.
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How to Make a Garden Sofa Out of Pallets
The trend for upcycling raw materials into garden furniture is coming to a back garden near you.
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How to Create a Festive Garden
Having a creative Christmas at home is about more than just a tree and a few bits of tinsel.
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The Alan Titchmarsh Column: The Next Generation of Green-Fingered Gardeners
This month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses the next generation of green-fingered gardeners.
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The Changing Seasons By Alan Titchmarsh
This month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses the changing seasons, and why he ventures out into his garden in any weather.
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How to Grow Incredible Edibles
Some plants have got the lot – they look good and do you good. Flo Whitaker recommends planting some handsome vegetables in your flower borders.
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Alan Titchmarsh Talks Of Common Mistakes Gardeners Make
He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist and all-round horticultural inspiration. This month, Alan Titchmarsh talks about the most common mistakes we make in our gardens.
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Why Many Plants Prefer Life In The Shade
Got a shady garden? Assume you can’t grow anything interesting? Not so, says Flo Whitaker. Many plants prefer life in the shade.
Animals
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Top Tips: Keep Your Pets Safe this Bonfire Night
Bonfire Night is just around the corner. A night of fireworks and celebrations, it's fun for us, but not always for our pets.
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Ten Ways to Help Hedgehogs
To celebrate its 10th birthday, nationwide campaign, Hedgehog Street, is asking members of the public to do 10 things to help hedgehogs throughout 2021. The campaign launched by wildlife charities People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) and the British Hedgehog Preservation Society (BHPS) aims to encourage people to make their gardens more hedgehog friendly, in order to help stop the ongoing decline of Britain’s favourite mammal.
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Hedgehogs on roads: new review assesses problems and solutions
A new review outlining the impact of road mortality on native European hedgehogs has been published in the online scientific journal Animals.
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Critically endangered eel found in Wightlink’s Lymington oyster nursery
Wightlink’s oyster nurseries are already proving a haven for rare marine wildlife.
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Wildlife charity launches Living with Mammals survey this autumn
Wildlife charity People’s Trust for Endangered Species (PTES) is, for the first time, running its Living with Mammals survey during autumn, from Monday 31st August until Sunday 29th November.
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The RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch 2021
The UK’s biggest citizen science project has been recording the winners and losers in the garden bird world for over four decades with the help of half a million people, and now the RSPB is counting on Island residents to join in too.
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Natural Living: A Flock of Long-Tailed Tits
A flock of wheeling long-tailed tits capture this author's imagination as she takes a stroll in the countryside
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Natural Living: The Sparrowhawk on the Isle of Wight
Sparrowhawks are now fairly common throughout the country and more of us can enjoy the breathtaking sight of these spectacular, small birds of prey.
At Your Leisure
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February Fiction to Enjoy this Month
As the year fully gets into its stride, why not immerse yourself in a new yarn from this selection of great offerings…
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The Wizard of Oz a 'Visual Feast'
There’s no place like Mayflower Theatre when it comes to putting on a production to wow audiences. And this adaption of The Wizard of Oz, fresh from The London Palladium, is no exception.
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A Circular Walk to Woodside Beach
This is one in a series of five walks, by Wootton Bridge Parish Council, designed to help you explore some of Wootton Bridge’s history and beautiful surroundings.
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Four Books to Tuck in to This New Year
If you’re finding a bit more time on your hands after a busy Christmas and New Year, January’s book selections have a selection of murder, the monarchy and healthy new recipes!
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"Fabulous, Funny and Festive": Snow White Arrives at Mayflower Theatre
Mayflower Theatre knows how to put on a panto – and this year has to be my favourite so far.
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Walking with Nordic Poles
Nordic Pole Walking (NPW) is quite unique in that it provides benefits for everybody, from those with medical problems to the super fit. Whatever your age, fitness level or goal, Nordic Pole Walking is suitable, effective and enjoyable.
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Chaotic Fun at This Year's Pompey Panto
There’s nothing quite like a Pompey Panto to start the festive season in style.
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An Interview with Southampton Panto Star Christopher Biggins
Ahead of Mayflower Theatre's 2023 pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, we found out what panto means to The Man in the Mirror, Christopher Biggins.
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All Aboard as The Kings Theatre Portsmouth Launches 2023 Panto
This year’s Pompey Panto was officially launched onboard the HMS Warrior in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard as the cast arrived on a vintage Pompey bus!
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October Puzzle Solutions
Here are the solutions to the Puzzle Page problems in the October edition of the magazine – how well did you do?
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Walking the Isle of Wight: Wroxall Woodland
This route will take you along village pathways and through woodland for a gentle stroll, with some stunning views. Perfect for getting some fresh summer air in your lungs.
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Four Books to Read on the Beach
For August, a selection of relaxing reads, perfect company for time spent relaxing on beach somewhere.
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Interview: The Drifters Girl Arrives in Southampton
Direct from the West End, The Drifters Girl arrives at Mayflower Theatre this month, ahead of a tour of the UK and Ireland.
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Just the ‘Golden’ Ticket: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Arrives in Southampton
We got a golden ticket to watch Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Mayflower Theatre this summer – and what a treat we had in store.
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Step Back into Cowes Past at 'School Days' Exhibition
Did you or a relative attend school in Cowes, Northwood or Gurnard? Or maybe you were a teacher?
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Walking the Island: Newtown Creek
Take a summer stroll around the beautiful Newtown Creek, passing by the historic Town Hall and the iconic Newtown bridge.
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Five Early Summer Reads to Enjoy in the Sunshine
For June, five releases that combine romance, rock, and restorative justice.
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Walking the Isle of Wight: Queen Victoria’s Town Trail
This month we’re walking Queen Victoria’s Town Trail through East Cowes, which is funded by the East Cowes Community Partnership.
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Book Reviews: From the Page to the Mind
For March, Adele Trathan has selected four new book releases that will entertain, engage and heal the soul.
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March Puzzle Solutions
Here are the solutions to the Puzzle Page problems in the March edition of the magazine – how well did you do?
Lifestyle
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Five Incredible Curries From Around The World
Originating from the Indian subcontinent, curry has evolved and adapted to different cultures, resulting in a diverse array of delicious dishes. From creamy Thai curries to fiery Jamaican jerk chicken, here are five incredible curries from around the world that are sure to tantalize your taste buds:
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Five Brilliant Twists In Mind-Bending TV Shows
Television has long been a platform for storytelling, captivating audiences with its ability to transport viewers to other worlds and challenge their perceptions. Mind-bending TV shows take this to the next level, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats with unexpected plot twists that redefine the entire narrative - here's five which left our jaws on the floor...
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Our Five Favourite Twists In Cinema
While many films leave a lasting impression with their compelling characters and breath-taking visuals, it's the unexpected twists that truly elevate the cinematic experience. From jaw-dropping revelations to mind-bending plot turns, here's five of our favourites:
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Wills & Wakes
Sara Whatley spoke to Melanie Hodson, Head of Information Support at Hospice UK about how to talk openly and honestly about death and dying
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Five Incredible Desserts From Around The World
From delicate pastries to indulgent cakes, desserts come in countless varieties, each reflecting the unique flavours and traditions of its place of origin. Let's embark on a delectable journey around the world to explore five incredible desserts that are sure to tantalize your senses:
Hidden Island
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Win Four Tickets To The Island Legends v Saints Legends Football Match
This highly anticipated match brings together football icons such as Matthew Le Tissier, James Beattie, Rickie Lambert, and Matthew Oakley, with additional names to be announced, who have graciously agreed to participate...
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Win A Weekend Pass To Good Vibrations Society Festival 2024
Back for another year, we've got a family weekend pass AND two pairs of weekend tickets to give away to this exciting, vibrant and unique Sussex festival this summer!
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Win A Steak & Lobster Share Board With Wine For Two At Catch Seafood Bar & Grill
We've got a great chance for you to win this exceptionally delicious treat for two worth £160* at this beautiful restaurant on Ryde's coastline!
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Win A Bottle Of Highweald Ghyll Valley
We're delighted to offer THREE bottles of this beautiful sparkling wine courtesy of Highweald Wine Of England - for April it's a lovely Ghyll Valley white...
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NEW: Win A Weekend Pass For Two To Cowes Fringe Festival
We've got a weekend pass for two to the return of this fantastic Island festival this Spring...