Beacon Magazine
Features
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British Heart Foundation Walk Taking Place In Memory Of Natalie
Four intrepid souls are taking on the final day of a 114km trek today (Sunday) to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.
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East Cowes Author Decodes the Island's Most Famous Yacht Race
East Cowes author, Magnus Wheatley, has uncovered one of the last great secrets of the America’s Cup in his new book ‘There is no Second’. That is the definitive account of the first race around the Isle of Wight on the 22nd August 1851.
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10 Ideas for a Screen-Free Summer
Looking for a way to drag the kids away from their tablets and screens this summer holiday? Hanna Prince has a few suggestions…
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Couture to Coffee Shops: A History of Shops in Cowes
A special exhibition will run from Friday, August 16th to Sunday, August 18th at the Beckford Centre, Cowes, PO31 7SE.
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The Big Scoop: Twenty Years of Plaza Ices
Twenty years after setting up shop in Cowes High Street, The Plaza Ices have evolved to become the Island’s eco-friendly ice-cream parlour on wheels – now operating from two battery/solar serve vans.
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An Interview With Eastenders' Lorraine Stanley
Portsmouth actress Lorraine Stanley will be starring in this year’s Pompey Panto at The Kings Theatre Portsmouth – playing the role of Queen Rat in Dick Whittington.
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Splash Made At 70th Pier2Pier Swim Challenge
The IW Marlins Masters Swim Club hosted its 70th Pier2Pier Sea Swim Challenge from Sandown Pier to the site of the old Shanklin Pier on Saturday (July 20).
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Island Dancers Bring Home Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals From Prestigious Competition
Five young dancers from the Isle of Wight have brought home gold, silver and bronze medals – after they joined Team England in a prestigious global dance competition in The Netherlands.
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Headline Authors Announced As 2024 Isle Of Wight Literary Festival Launched
Top literary names from television, politics, history and the world of food and drink are among headline authors who will be appearing at this year’s Isle of Wight Literary Festival.
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Snacks & Ladders to Offer Team Building Days
With support from the experts involved in Isle of Wight Radio’s Perfect Pitch competition, the Snacks and Ladders team are now offering comprehensive team building packages, along with delicious refreshments, to help increase morale, build trust and improve communication in the workplace.
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Dive Into the History of the Solent
From once-a-day sailing-boat crossings, to the innovation of steam, the history of cross Solent travel offers a fascinating glimpse into life before the introduction of the maritime technology Wightlink use today. John Hendy tells all in his book, Solent Seaways.
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One Week To Go Until Isle Of Wight Walking Festival 25th Anniversary
The Isle of Wight Walking Festival celebrates 25 years this year with the launch of the Spring Walking Festival on Saturday May 11.
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Wildheart Animal Sanctuary Rescue To Bring First Bears To Isle Of Wight For 30 Years
The Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, based in Sandown is embarking on another ambitious animal rescue, this time of two European Brown Bears, Benji and Balu, from Azerbaijan.
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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.
Local Community News
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British Heart Foundation Walk Taking Place In Memory Of Natalie
Four intrepid souls are taking on the final day of a 114km trek today (Sunday) to raise money for the British Heart Foundation.
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New Crime Novel Set On Isle Of Wight
A crime novel set on the Isle of Wight will have its hardback release next month.
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Cowes Enterprise College Students Celebrate Outstanding Results
Cowes Enterprise College Students celebrated long into the night after receiving excellent GCSE results yesterday (Thursday).
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Youth Groups Join Forces To Tackle Key Issues Affecting Young Islanders
Young people on the Isle of Wight have set out ambitious plans to tackle important issues raised at this year’s Isle of Wight Youth Voice Conference.
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Freshwater Parish Council Awards £5,000 Grant To FYTbus
Freshwater Parish Council were so pleased to be able to once again support the FYTbus with a Community Grant of £5,000.
Food and Drink
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Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes
Deliciously light and fluffy, these red velvet cupcakes with a gorgeous soft cheese frosting are ideal for an afternoon tea – they are sure to impress your guests.
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Recipe: Saffron & Lemon Chicken Joojeh Kebabs
This probably features on the menu of every Persian restaurant in the world, the marinade of yogurt and lemon juice tenderises the meat beautifully. This simplified version can be made at home in a conventional oven or grill if you don’t have a barbecue
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Recipe: Raspberry Blancmange
Based on a retro classic, this blancmange is a far cry from its wobbly 1970s reputation – instead, this is a light and creamy raspberry and almond dessert
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South Carolina BBQ Chicken Thighs
Try this winning BBQ chicken recipe from Grillstock founders Jon Finch and Ben Merrington and learn how to make both an authentic South Carolina BBQ sauce, and their secret BBQ rub.
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Recipe: Local Lemon and Thyme Sea Bass
This delicious recipe, courtesy of JBs Cowes, makes the perfect summer dish served with new potatoes.
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Recipe: Sizzling Spare Ribs with BBQ Sauce
The perfect spare ribs for your summer barbeque!
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Recipe: Olive Oil, Pistachio & Lemon Cake
This simple but delicious cake is made in a food processor, so it takes just minutes to prepare. Serve it with a simple lemon and sugar glaze and sprinkle with a few roughly chopped pistachios and dried rose petals
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Recipe: Salted Caramel Praline Brownie
Baker and author of Postal Bakes, Lucy Burton, will have you drooling at these divine brownies.
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Mary Berry's Mediterranean All-in-One Chicken
This is a great way to feed the family as the chicken and veg are all cooked in one very large tray in the oven. It takes only minutes to put everything together then it sits in the oven for under an hour with no fussy finishing off to do and only one pan to wash up.
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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.
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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How to Cover Up Shabby Garden Walls and Fences
If your garden fences or walls are looking a bit shabby it might be time to find a cover up solution. Read on for Sara Whatley’s transformation ideas.
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Homes Extra: Shed Space
Are you thinking of a new shed, greenhouse or garden room? Sara Whatley gives you some food for thought on all three
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Gardening: Choose a Clematis for Every Month of the Year
The clematis family offers flowers in a wide array of colours and shapes, and there are varieties for nearly every month of the year, says Flo Whitaker
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Blooming Times: Top of the Pots
How are your patio pots? Show-stopping, or lacklustre? Time to try some different planting combinations, suggests Flo Whitaker
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Kids Zone: Get the Kids Growing
Read on for some green fingered ideas to get the kids involved in the garden from Sara Whatley
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Blooming Times: Wisteria Hysteria
With its exquisitely fragrant, show-stopping blooms, wisteria is the queen of spring climbers – yet it can be frustratingly sulky and thuggish. Flo Whitaker offers a quick troubleshooting guide to floral success
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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.
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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August Authors: Four Books to Read on the Beach this Summer
A mixture of comedy, politics and thriller to keep you intrigued and engaged, this month.
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Britain’s Got Talent winner to play Dick Whittington in this year’s Pompey Panto
The Kings Theatre are delighted to announce that Britain’s Got Talent winner George Sampson is to play the title role of Dick Whittington in this year’s Pompey Panto.
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A Walk Around Carisbrooke Castle
The ground that surrounds Carisbrooke Castle is a popular walk with dog owners and locals – and connects to lots of onward walks around rural Carisbrooke, with its stunning views and watering holes.
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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.
Lifestyle
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Five Memorable Oasis Performances To Get Us In The Mood
It's happening! After a 15-year hiatus, Oasis are reuniting for a world tour in 2025 with dates for the UK and Ireland announced. With hits like "Wonderwall," "Don’t Look Back in Anger," and "Live Forever," they are the voice of a generation. Their live performances, filled with raw energy and attitude, are legendary. Here are five memorable performances from the Gallagher brothers that will get any fan in the mood to relive the magic ahead of next year:
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Five Amazing Places To Visit In September
As summer winds down and autumn approaches, September offers an ideal time for travel. The summer crowds have thinned, the weather is still pleasant in many parts of the world, and landscapes begin to transform with the changing season. Here are five amazing destinations to consider for your September getaway.
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Five Incredible Waterfalls You Need to Visit
From cascading giants plunging into deep gorges to hidden gems tucked away in lush forests, waterfalls have captivated travellers for centuries. Here are five incredible waterfalls you need to visit that offer not just a visual spectacle but an unforgettable adventure:
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Five Amazing Barbecue Dishes to Try from Around the World
Every country has its unique twist on barbecue, ranging from smoky and spicy to sweet and tangy. Here are five of the best barbecue dishes to try from around the world that will take your taste buds on a delicious adventure, especially while the weather stays good:
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Five Strangest Theme Park Rides Around the World
Theme parks are known for their thrilling roller coasters, immersive attractions, and family-friendly fun. But beyond the typical rides, some parks have taken creativity to the extreme, offering attractions that range from the bizarre to the downright strange. These rides challenge not only your courage but also your imagination, leaving you with memories that are as unforgettable as they are unusual. Here are five of the strangest theme park rides around the world that you need to experience:
Hidden Island
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Win A Meal For Six Worth £240 At The Old Fort, Seaview
We've got an amazing opportunity for you to win a beautiful lunch or dinner for six people at this brilliant eatery, who recently won Best Pub Award for the Island!
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Win An Island Rib Trip For Up To Seven People
We`ve got an incredible rib trip around the Solent for up to SEVEN people to view the island's stunning coastline, and get up close to the Napoleonic Sea Forts this summer...
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Win A VIP Bear Experience At Wildheart Animal Sanctuary
Two new bears are arriving the island's Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, and to celebrate, we've got TWO VIP Bear Experiences so you can be one of the first to see them...
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Win Tickets To The Island Steam Fair 2024
The Isle of Wight Steam Fair is back for 2024 and we've got a set of FOUR tickets up for grabs to this brilliant event over August bank holiday weekend!
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Win A Three/Four Night Break For Two At Four Lakes Retreat
We've got an amazing opportunity for you to win a three or four night break for two adults at this stunning Island retreat!