Features
Every month, Beacon Magazine is packed with articles about Island life, local history, competitions, news, interviews and much more. Here's some of our favourites.
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Memorial Quilt To Be Displayed On The Island
A Memorial Quilt to raise awareness of people with living experience of suicide and bereavement arrived on the Island today (Monday).
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Island Author Celebrating Amazon Number One
“A Christmas Murder”, the latest book by Island author Mary Grand has hit number one in the Amazon kindle best seller list.
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Amazing Isle Of Wight: Listener Photo Gallery
Here's a gallery of some of our favourite images from across the Isle of Wight!
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Falcons Fly Again At Robin Hill
A stunning collection of birds of prey are taking flight once more at Robin Hill after new owner and CEO, Lee Priddle, came to the rescue of Island company, the Falconry Experience, who were facing an uncertain fate.
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Island Update: November 2024
Your community news, achievements and feel-good stories. Please do continue to send them in to editorial@iwbeacon.com and remember, more local news and information is available on our website www.iwbeacon.com
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Home Style: Creative Style
Joy and Steve Jolliffe work and play in their light-filled home, with its paired back Scandi style and fun pops of colour
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Calling All Art Lovers!
From telephone box to art gallery, this classic red K6 in Ryde may be tiny, but it has huge ambitions. Sara Whatley shares the story of Re:Box
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Homes Extra: Restore, Repair, Recycle
Delve into the world of pre-loved furniture and upcycling projects with Sara Whatley, plus industry expert tips and advice from The Salvage Sister
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Entertainment Guide: November 2024
Your guide to the best local events happening across the Island in November...
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Robin Hill Issues Apology For Halloween Traffic Issues With Operations Manager Returning
A spokesperson for Robin Hill has explained the issues that affected last night's (Thursday) Halloween event at the country park.
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Raccoons On The Run: Animals Escape From Amazon World
Can you help Amazon World to find four escaped raccoons?
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Isle Of Wight Toy Appeal Returns For 2024
Can you help bring festive cheer to a child's Christmas Day?
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What to Watch in November 2024
Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows coming to screens in November...
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O-No? Oh-Yes! Island Couple In Rare Isle Of Wight Festival Photo Charity Shop Find
A couple from the Isle of Wight were shocked when a charity shop frame purchase resulted in the discovery of a legendary Kodak snap.
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Island Boy Has Pick Of Grammar Schools
A multi-talented Isle of Wight boy has had the pick of some of the country’s top state-funded grammar schools after excelling in 11-plus exams across the country.
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A Perfect Point of View: The History of the Albion Hotel
From a smuggler’s inn to a luxury hotel, Sara Whatley tells the story of the Albion in Freshwater Bay
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Homes Extra: Let it Shine
Let your windows sparkle and shine with some special window TLC. Sara Whatley finds out more
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Denistry At The Root Of Isle Of Wight Health Concerns
Concerns about the Isle of Wight’s dentistry services still stand out in feedback on the Island’s health and social care services, a report has shown.
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Island Update: October 2024
Your monthly round-up of local news from across the Island...
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Home Style: Charming Tranquility
Anna and Peter Coe renovated a traditional country cottage in West Wight to create a modern re-interpretation of open-plan living space
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Wedding Trends: Make Your Special Day Unique!
As well as being incredibly exciting, planning a wedding is a time to express yourself as a couple. Adele Trathan has compiled some on-trend ideas and suggestions to help make your day unique, special to you, and memorable for all your guests!
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What to Watch in October 2024
Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows to get stuck into in October...
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Well-Known Dyslexia Influencer Hosts Isle Of Wight’s First Ever Dyslexia And Dyscalculia Conference
Islander, dyslexia assessor and social media star, Jo Rees is the brains behind the exciting new event taking place later this year.
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Saturday Night Fever - Newport Nightclub To Close After Weekend Send-Off
Newport's Fever & Boutique nightclub is to host a farewell party this weekend before closing its doors for good.
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Island Authors at the Literary Festival
This year’s Isle of Wight Literary Festival will be supporting the Island’s own talented authors
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What to Watch in September 2024
Your guide to all the best new films and TV shows coming to screens in September...
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Coping with Bereavement
Coping with bereavement is an intensely personal journey, marked by a range of emotions and challenges.
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East Cowes Esplanade Celebrates its Centenary Year
In June 1924, a grand opening was held for the “magnificent” East Cowes Esplanade.
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Isle of Wight Walking Festival
Celebrating 25 years, the Isle of Wight Autumn Walking Festival takes place 5-13 October, with a range of new walks and favourites from years gone by
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Roll out the Magic Carpet!
Disney’s hit Broadway and West End musical, Aladdin, lands in Southampton this month – and two Isle of Wight based Costumiers have been busy making outfits for the show
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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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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.
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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.
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Lighting Up Long Lane for Nearly Quarter of a Century
Long Lane’s iconic Christmas lights display, organised by Islanders Terry and Sue Ramplin, will switch on this month — accompanied by a marching band and (with your help) Father Christmas.
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Isle of Wight Toy Appeal Returns for 2023
The Isle of Wight Radio Christmas Toy Appeal is back for 2023, with the aim of spreading festive cheer to thousands of less-fortunate children across the Island.
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Hot Stuff: Isle of Wight Studio Glass Celebrates 50 Years
Isle of Wight Studio Glass ‘the original’ is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
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Shanklin Chine: The Island’s Oldest Visitor Attraction
Carved by Mother Nature’s own hands over thousands of years, the stunning tree lined gorge that is Shanklin Chine cuts its mark from Shanklin Old Village to the sandy beach and esplanade, far below.
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Six Things You Might Not Know About Alan Titchmarsh
Whether they’re born or bred, or put down roots on our beloved Island, the Isle of Wight has a history of famous figures who’ve either made their start or got involved in our community - each week we take a look at one of these fascinating people…
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Fairlee Fireworks Back With A Bang For 2023
Following its sell-out success last year, Fairlee Fireworks will be back for 2023.
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An Interview with Southampton Panto Star Ashley Banjo
Ahead of Mayflower Theatre's 2023 pantomime, starring Britain’s Got Talent winners and street dance sensations Diversity, we found out what panto means to Diversity's Ashley Banjo.
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Six Facts You Might Not Know About Bear Grylls
Whether they’re born or bred, or put down roots on our beloved Island, the Isle of Wight has a history of famous figures who’ve either made their start or got involved in our community - each week we take a look at one of these fascinating people…
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Old School Days in Cowes
If you live in Cowes, your home may once have been one of the many small independent schools to be found around the town between 1785 and 1950.
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Isle Of Wight Radio's 2023 Child Of Wight Award Winners Revealed
The Island's young heroes have been crowned at Isle of Wight Radio's Child of Wight Awards 2023.
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Walk & Talk: With Men Only IOW
Men Only IOW knows how much easier it is for some men to open up when out and about. That’s why the charity has set up a weekly walk, from Puckpool, which gives men here on the Island the opportunity to get outdoors and get any stresses they’re experiencing off their chests.
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Six Things You Might Not Know About Jeremy Irons
Whether they’re born or bred, or put down roots on our beloved Island, the Isle of Wight has a history of famous figures who’ve either made their start or got involved in our community - each week we take a look at one of these fascinating people…
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Be The Isle Of Wight's First Wing Walker with Mountbatten
Islanders will have the chance to soar through the skies as part of the Isle of Wight’s very first wing-walking event next March.
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Six Facts You Might Not Know About Mark King
Whether they’re born or bred, or put down roots on our beloved Island, the Isle of Wight has a history of famous figures who’ve either made their start or got involved in our community - each week we take a look at one of these fascinating people…
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Six Facts You Might Not Know About Queen Victoria
Whether they’re born or bred, or put down roots on our beloved Island, the Isle of Wight has a history of famous figures who’ve either made their start or got involved in our community - each week we take a look at one of these fascinating people…
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80 Years Since the Bombing of Newport
A service held at St John’s Church last month marked the 80th anniversary of the bombing of Newport during World War II.
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How to Look After Your Skin in Summer
When it comes to beauty routines, many of us tend to be creatures of habit. This is all well and good in terms of being rigorous with cleansing rituals and factoring time for pampering sessions, but when it comes to our actual make up it’s good to be a little more flexible.
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Child of Wight Awards Return for 2023
Sponsored by WightFibre the Isle of Wight Radio Child of Wight Awards are back for 2023. It's the chance to celebrate the achievements of the Island’s most precious asset: its children.
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Mardi Gras Celebrates 'Year of the Coast' 2023 with Young People's Carnival Parade
This year's Isle of Wight Mardi Gras carnival parade will take place on Saturday, July 8th, starting at 3pm from Simeon Recreation ground in Ryde.
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The History of Brading Roman Villa
Situated on the eastern side of the Isle of Wight, overlooking Sandown Bay, Brading Roman Villa stands as a magnificent testament to the Island’s rich history.
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An Interview with Sophie Ellis-Bextor
Some call her fashion outlook unique, others suggest she pays the ultimate tribute to some of the style icons of the past. But for Sophie Ellis-Bextor, her immaculate image comes naturally.
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Sea Shanty Sing Out Planned for New Carnival’s Crossing the Bar Festival
New Carnival will stage a three-day programme of walks and community arts events on the Island this weekend, highlighting the Tennyson Heritage Coast – and celebrating ‘2023 National Year of the Coast’.
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Islandwide Carpets: Still on a Roll After 50 Years in Business
As a popular Isle of Wight business celebrates its 50th anniversary, its sole proprietor hands the keys to the generation below.
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Places to Picnic Across the Isle of Wight
Pack up a picnic and find somewhere beautiful on the Island to enjoy it with family and friends.
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East Cowes Town Council And Red Funnel Open New Community Orchard
East Cowes Town Council and Red Funnel have opened a new Community Orchard to Isle of Wight residents, after coming together to create a safe and relaxing space for members of the local community.
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Iconic Needles Lighthouse Set For Upgrades
An iconic Isle of Wight landmark is set for upgrades later this year.
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Visit The Isle Of Wight's Saucy Seaside Postcard Museum This Summer
If you head to the Royal Victoria Arcade on Union Street this summer, you’ll discover a quaint little museum which pays homage to Donald McGill — the king of the saucy seaside postcard.
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Recipe: Home-Cooked Fish Dishes for Cats and Dogs
Put some homemade ingenuity into your pet’s mealtimes, with these freshly made fish dishes.
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History: Queen Victoria's Isle of Wight Funeral
In events strikingly similar to those of late, in January 1901 the Isle of Wight was mourning the death of a Queen.
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Win Tickets to see Cinderella at Kings Theatre
We've teamed up with Kings Theatre to give away a family ticket to see Cinderella next week.
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Trinity Theatre’s Cinderella ‘Fun, Festive and Full of Magic’
Cowes Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society (CAODS) has been putting on shows for Islanders for more than 125 years — and this year’s Christmas pantomime certainly didn’t disappoint.
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125 Years of Entertainment with Cowes Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society
There are few amateur dramatic societies in the country which can boast such a long history of local activity but, just over 125 years ago, CAODS was founded in 1897, the year of the Diamond Jubilee of the reign of Queen Victoria.
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Jingle All The Way! New Festive Fundraiser For Isle Of Wight's Mountbatten
A new festive fundraiser is coming to the Isle of Wight for Mountbatten.
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The History of Newport’s Apollo Theatre
As The Apollo Theatre celebrates its 50th anniversary, we look back at the history of this iconic building in Newport, dedicated to the art of performance.
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Round Of Appaws! Freshwater Pet Store Owners Bid Farewell After 40 Years
After almost 40 years at the helm, the owners of the popular Freshwater Pet Store are bidding an emotional fur-well.
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Winners Announced At Isle Of Wight Book Awards Charity Lunch
The winners of the inaugural Isle of Wight Book Awards were revealed at a charity lunch in Cowes yesterday (Wednesday).
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Glitz, Glamour, Drama And Dance: Strictly Ballroom Swings On To Stage At Kings Theatre
Strictly Ballroom The Musical burst on to stage at Kings Theatre this week, in an explosion of glitz, glamour, drama and dance — under the iconic glitter ball.
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Cowes Week 2022: All You Need To Know
As Cowes Week gets underway, here's a taster of what to expect over the coming week.
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“Some Progress But More To Do” Almost Two Years On From Isle Of Wight Mum’s Skin Cancer Death
"Things are better, but a lot more still needs to be done" to take potentially malignant moles seriously, according to an Isle of Wight mother, who lost her daughter to skin cancer in 2020.
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Rhythmtree Festival Gets Underway At New Thorness Location
The Isle of Wight's Rhythmtree Festival is back at a new location from today (Friday).
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Books On The Beach As Part Of New Ryde Collaboration
Ryde Town Council and Ryde Library have announced a brand new collaboration to bring free reading to Ryde beaches.
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Isle Of Wight's Billingham Manor — Former Home Of Author J.B Priestley — For Sale For £3.95m
The Isle of Wight's famous Billingham Manor is up for sale for £3.95 million.
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Isle Of Wight Truck Driver To Row Across Atlantic For Mental Health Charities
Isle of Wight Truck driver, Jacob Benger-Pereira is planning to row from New York to the UK – retracing an iconic 3,200 mile ocean crossing from 1896 – in aid of two young people's mental health charities.
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Jilted Isle Of Wight Bride ‘The Real Miss Havisham’
The owners of a holiday cottage in Bonchurch believe they’ve uncovered the inspiration behind the infamous Charles Dickens character, Miss Havisham.
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Isle Of Wight Man With Cystic Fibrosis Takes On 100 Mile Charity Walk
An Isle of Wight man, who was born with Cystic Fibrosis, is taking on a 100 mile walk this month, to raise money for the hospital which gave him a new pair of lungs.
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David Bowie’s PJs And Freddie Mercury Jacket Designs Being Auctioned For Ryde Bandstand Project
David Bowie and Freddie Mercury's costume designer is backing an ambitious project to bring live music back to the seaside on the Isle of Wight.
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Isle Of Wight's Quarr Abbey Features In BBC One Series
Ryde's Quarr Abbey is the feature of a new series which has aired on BBC One.
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MAN v FAT Football Coming To Isle Of Wight
A six-a-side football programme that has already helped more than 6,000 men across the UK tackle obesity is set to kick-off on the Isle of Wight this month.
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Mountbatten’s Santa Dash Returns With A New Isle Of Wight Venue
Santa Dash – Mountbatten’s annual festive family fun run – will return next month at a new venue.
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100 Years Since Uffa Fox's 'Foolhardy Journey' From Cowes
In 1978 the Duke of Edinburgh said: "In conventional terms Uffa was eccentric." That was never better demonstrated than 100 years ago, when he ended up being sacked as the scoutmaster of Cowes Sea Scouts.
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New Website Brings History Of Newport To Life Through Old Photographs
The history of Newport's town centre is being brought to life with a new interactive website, created by the partnership behind Newport High Street Action Zone.
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Katie Melua And Tom Allen To Appear At Robin Hill
Top entertainment and big stars return to the Isle of Wight this summer at Robin Hill’s new event, The Woodland Sessions.
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Isle Of Wight's Eddie Minghella Celebrates 100th Birthday
The founder of the world-renowned Minghella ice-cream, Edward Minghella, celebrated his 100th birthday on June 21st.
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Schools Mark National Carnival Week With Own Carnival Events
Carnivals may not be taking to the streets as normal this year, but many Island schools will be putting on their own carnival events during National Children’s Carnival Week.
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St Helens Secret Gardens Event Returns
Nine gardens will be opening in St Helens on Sunday, one for the first time, allowing hundreds of visitors the chance to peek behind walls and hedges to discover the hidden treasures beyond.
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St. Mary’s Church Celebrates 175th Anniversary
One of the oldest buildings in Ryde High Street is celebrating its 175th anniversary.
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Sword Fights, Ghost Stories and Hidden Passageways at The Castle Inn, Newport
Dating back to 1550, The Castle Inn is the oldest public house in Newport.
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Walking the Island: The Tapnell Trail
The Tapnell Trail runs through the middle of Tapnell Farm, on the outskirts of Yarmouth. It’s an incredibly scenic circular walk, which can be completed in sections, or in full at 6.5 miles.
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Get the Island Noticed for the Film and TV Industry
Promoting the Island as a destination to film makers and supplying everything the production team need, Isle of Wight Film Fixers have a catalogue of properties, services and vehicles to hire.
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Disabled Isle of Wight Writer on Tour with the Stars
A freelance writer and journalist with Cerebral Palsy is bringing his podcast to the stage.
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Walking the Island: Stenbury Down and the Worsley Obelisk
Start in Godshill. If you're driving, you can park in the car park opposite The Griffin, or if you're coming by bus, there's a stop just along the High Street.
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The Perils of Do It Yourself Wills
You may have seen offers to purchase DIY Wills either in stationery stores or online in the past and with the various lockdowns over the last 12 months you may even have been tempted to prepare one yourself, rather than getting in contact with a Solicitor as you would usually.
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Win a Day in the Garden: With Ventnor Botanic Garden
Enjoy a day in the exotic outdoors, with a trip to Ventnor Botanic Garden. Stroll around the garden's 22-acre microclimate with plant collections from South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, the Mediterranean Basin and Japan.
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Need A Boost? Four Of The Best Podcasts On Happiness
Want to enrich your daily walk or make your lunchbreak that little bit brighter? Here's a list of the best mood-lifting podcasts.
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Rainbow Run adds bubble fun to 40th birthday celebrations
Wessex Cancer Trust is adding bubble fun to this year’s Rainbow Run — in celebration of the charity’s 40th birthday.
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Island-Inspired Picture Book Has Important Environmental Message
Local children’s author and illustrator, Peta Rainford, hopes her latest rhyming picture book, Crab, Dab & Blenny, which will be published tomorrow (May 4th), will not only be a big hit with 4-8 year olds, but will raise awareness of the issue of plastics in the ocean.
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West Wight Timebank's Eco Refill Scheme Now Offers Home Delivery
The West Wight Timebank is operating a delivery eco refill scheme in the Freshwater, Yarmouth, Totland, Shalfleet and Newbridge areas.
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New Traineeship with HTP is the Fast Way into Work for Young Islanders
Employers across the Isle of Wight are offering 19–24-year-olds the opportunity to learn a new career and start a brand new job.
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Art Exhibition Brings Cheer to Freshwater
Residents of Inglefield Nursing & Residential Home have been so inspired by the huge effort the local communities have made to keep everyone safe, they wanted to give something back by creating an outdoor art project to cheer everyone up.
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✨Win a £25 Voucher to Spend in an Isle of Wight Pub Garden
Fancy bagging yourself a £25 voucher to spend at either The Castle Inn, Newport or The Vine, St Helens?
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Memories of Mr Athletics
The family of the late Ray Scovell — otherwise known as the Isle of Wight's 'Mr Athletics' have launched a fundraising appeal in his memory.
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Your Life, Your Legacy: Leaving a Gift in Your Will to Mountbatten
For almost 40 years, Mountbatten has supported our community through death, dying and bereavement. With a gift in your Will, you can ensure they will still be here for future generations of Island people.
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Unscramble the Isle of Wight Road Names
Think you know the Isle of Wight like the back of your hand? We're going to put you to the test by giving you ten Isle of Wight road names to unscramble.
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History: Shanklin's Hidden Summer Theatre
Shanklin Summer Theatre was constructed on the Esplanade in 1921 – opening later that year with the first Sunshine Concert Party, which went from success to even greater success.
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Kim’s Head Shave for Wessex Cancer Trust
A Totland woman is aiming to raise £2,000 for Wessex Cancer Trust by shaving her head on her 54th birthday on April 20th.
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Endometriosis Affects 1 in 10 Women. That's More Than Asthma or Diabetes
So why is there still so little awareness? Islander Georgia Day speaks out about her experience with this chronic illness, during Endometriosis Awareness Month.
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Health and Beauty: Choosing a Signature Scent
Sensual and evocative, fragrance plays a powerful role in our lives. Lisa de Silva explains how nothing can stir senses and memories like fragrance, with its ability to take you back to another time, place or loved one.
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Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Sara Whatley has been learning how we can all get involved in raising awareness and assisting with fundraising.
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Memories of Island Line
Island Line has said a final farewell to its Class 483 trains, ahead of a three month closure and £26million upgrade.
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Our Top Ten Children's Books from Isle of Wight Authors
Happy World Book Day! To celebrate, we've brought you a list of our favourite children's books from Isle of Wight authors. Support local and enjoy a story with your little ones at the same time. Just click the link to find out where to buy it.
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HISTORY: Shanklin Theatre in the Summer of ’56
Sixty years after spending the summer season acting at Shanklin Theatre, Janet Sandys-nee-Derry returns as a guest.
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Successful IW Story Festival reaches world-wide audience – and it’s not too late to join in the fun!
The IW Story Festival, which took place over half term, attracted many hundreds of children and families from all parts of the UK and, indeed, the world – with participants coming from places as diverse as the Netherlands, Canada, Trinidad and Tobago and the USA.
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Staying Active in Your Home
As Lockdown across England puts an even greater emphasis on the health and wellbeing of older people in isolation, the Goldies Charity is increasing its weekly online content to include gentle chair-exercise at home.
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History: The Isle of Wight and the Birth of Radio
In November 1897 a twenty-three year old Italian took up rooms at the Royal Needles Hotel overlooking Alum Bay. It was just out of season and Guglielmo Marconi's proposal to experiment from the hotel over the winter was welcomed by the hotel's proprietors. For the next two and a half years the world's first permanent wireless radio station would be operated from the hotel.
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Wightlink’s old rope brings joy to animals on the Isle of Wight
Around a half a kilometre of rope is now providing creature comforts for two Isle of Wight wildlife projects thanks to Wightlink.
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‘Threatened Plant of the Year 2021’ competition launched
Plant Heritage calls for garden enthusiasts across the UK to enter competition which celebrates rare and unusual plants.
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Surviving Winter Campaign helps people keep warm across the Isle of Wight
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Community Foundation (HIWCF) launched the Surviving Winter 2020-2021 campaign to help tackle fuel poverty for older and vulnerable people struggling to keep warm at winter time.
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Keep Fit with the Kids in Lockdown
It’s not easy to juggle fitness and home schooling during a lockdown – but according to Hanna Prince, by combining the two you can keep everyone happy.
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Rocking the Isle of Wight: The remarkable story of three twenty-somethings from Totland
New book, Rocking The Isle of Wight, by Alan and Tom Stroud focuses on the original Isle of Wight festivals that were put on by three Totland brothers, Ronnie, Ray and Bill Foulk.
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Island Couple Seek Dracula’s Castle, Romania in Travel History Documentary
In this travel history documentary, husband and wife team Greg and Felicity, from the Isle of Wight, set off across Romania in search of ‘Dracula’s Castle’, and a deeper understanding of the history and legend surrounding Vlad Dracula III of Wallachia, better known as Vlad the Impaler!
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Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary: Little Donkey, Journey's End is Near
Despite a difficult year, the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary are ending on a high, after completing their first international rescue — ten donkeys from France.
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Walking the Island: From Tennyson Down to the Old Battery
A dog friendly, hilly walk with fantastic views along the way.
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Download our free printable Christmas Cooking Schedule
Make your Christmas Day a little easier by planning your cooking schedule ahead of time.
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Mountbatten staff raise over £1,500 in virtual festive challenge.
Despite the official annual Santa Dash being cancelled earlier this month, Mountbatten nurses, volunteers and their families walked, ran, or cycled a combined total of over 90km to raise funds for the Island's hospice.
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The Changing Face of Newport Quay
One place most of us are familiar with is Newport Quay. Perhaps we use the Quay Arts Centre or the Riverside Centre, meet at the Bargeman's or just saunter along the peaceful waterside.
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No One Should Have No One at Christmas
Before the outbreak of coronavirus, we were already facing a loneliness epidemic amongst older people. But as a result of the pandemic, this crisis has intensified.
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Retirement Home Grotto Brings Families Together
St Vincent’s Retirement Home in Ryde has built a grotto for families to visit their loved ones over Christmas in a safe and secure way.
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200 years of Ryde Pier: Ludicrous Journeys, Itchycoo Park and Babycham
At low tide, the sea off the coast of Ryde is nearly half a mile away. Though its proximity to Portsmouth makes it the shortest Solent crossing — so in times gone by, the inconvenient half mile slog across the sands was seen as a price worth paying.
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Five Great Presents for Him this Christmas (and Five for Her)
Looking for something special for your other half this Christmas? Check out our picks for the festive season, as well as a few for yourself...
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Winter coats needed for Island’s homeless
A local funeral co-ordinator is hoping to rally the community spirit to help families in need of support this winter.
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The Cowes Floating Bridge: Since 1859
Cowes Floating Bridge has been a hot topic of late, so we've searched our archives to bring you this great history piece, by John Medland, which delves into the life and times of the Floating Bridge and its many predecessors.
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Winter Skincare for a Beautiful You
Winter can be hard on skin, with cold winds and the drying effects of central heating leading to a dull and dehydrated complexion. Yet maintaining a healthy glow is possible with a few small changes to your skincare regime, writes Lisa de Silva,
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Ten Great Bargains You Can Pick Up For Black Friday
Looking for some great discounts ahead of Black Friday? Amazon are offering deals on a range of products all week until Monday November 30 - here's our picks for you...
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Ventnor's Royal Hotel: Steeped in History
The prestigious Royal Hotel, in Ventnor, was built more than a hundred and fifty years ago as a coaching house to accommodate both travellers and people who had come to Ventnor for the sake of their health.
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Creatures Great And Small In War
On Remembrance Day we honour the lives lost and human sacrifice of war. Here, Ruth Lawrence discovers how animals also played their part working alongside soldiers and civilians.
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Island wildlife artist launches 2020 advent series for conservation
Following a popular Endangered Advent campaign last year, where she produced an imaginative, festive-themed wildlife illustration each day in the lead-up to Christmas, island-based artist Jen Parker is starting a new advent series in December – this time focusing on British wildlife in collaboration with People's Trust for Endangered Species (PTES). The original illustrations will be sold and all profits donated to PTES.
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Ten Items Great For The Home During Lockdown
With another lockdown currently upon us, it's not particularly nice having to stay at home all the time. But there's no need to live in discomfort, with plenty of options to enhance your home, especially as winter approaches. Here's our picks to get the perfect set-up...
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Tiger Tales: The Corney Family History at Isle of Wight Zoo
From cubs in the caravan to strolling with snakes, the Corney family have lived a unique family life, surrounded by exotic animals.
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Let's Buy Local This Christmas
Now’s the time to support local shops and eateries, when independent businesses need our custom more than ever before. Despite many having to close their doors throughout November, lots of local businesses are offering home delivery and collection services throughout their temporary closure. We find out how you can still shop local throughout lockdown...
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Isle of Wight Radio's Child of Wight Awards 2020
The Island is blessed with an abundance of exceptional youngsters — and Isle of Wight Radio’s Child of Wight Awards recognise their wonderful achievements.
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Fireworks advice for dog owners
With many public firework displays set to be cancelled this year due to Covid-19, and the likelihood that more people will host private displays in their back gardens, Dogs Trust is issuing top tips to owners to help their dogs cope with these potentially distressing events.
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Ten Great Christmas Presents For the Kids This Year
Can you believe it's nearly Christmas?! And after the year it's been, it seems like we all deserve a treat. Here's our picks for the best gifts on offer for your children this year...
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🎃🎃 Win a Voucher for Eat Street in our Pumpkin Carving Competition 🎃🎃
The team at Beacon Magazine and their families have been carving pumpkins ready for Halloween this weekend...and we’ve decided to get you lot involved. So we’ve teamed up with Eat Street IOW to give one lucky winner a £20 voucher to spend on their DELICIOUS takeaway street food.
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The Life and Times of the Pumpkin
We take a look at all things pumpkin, its origins and its surprising number of uses.
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That Ol' Black Magic: Why it's the ideal colour for autumn fashion
A mysterious and seductive colour, Lisa de Silva tells us why black remains one of the most popular choices in the fashion world.
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Gene Vincent at the Royal York Hotel, 1969
A few months after Bob Dylan performed at IW Festival 1969, American musician Gene Vincent performed for one night only at the Island’s Royal York Hotel in Ryde.
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Orchard Bros: Serving the West Wight through five generations
Originally built as a private residence in 1845, Freshwater Bay’s Alexandra House has been in the hands of the Orchard family for more than 150 years.
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Nursery manager raises £1,274 in head shave
West Wight Nursery manager Kim Tyrell has raised an incredible £1,274 for the nursery, having had her head shaved on the school/nursery playground earlier this month.
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How can your public green spaces be improved for people and wildlife?
We find out more about the Isle of Wight Public Green Spaces project, supported by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust and The Southern Co-op.
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Making Up with Colour Cosmetics
We look at the coming season’s makeup trends to enhance your features.
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The History of Browns Golf Course
Brown’s Golf Course was created in 1931 by Alexander Kennedy and his wife Violet Kennedy, the owners of a chain of successful south London sausage and pie shops.
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Glitter, Glue and Glory: Parenting and Home Schooling in Lockdown
Hanna Prince shares the challenges — and the unexpected rewards — of home parenting during lockdown.
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An Exhibition of Wight Spirit: Isle of Wight Festival photographs from 1968-1970
‘Wight Spirit’ marks the 50th anniversary of the 1970 IW Festival with new sculptures, a feature length-documentary and never-seen-before photographs.
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New book reveals the diaries of a Hampshire and Isle of Wight police officer in 1887
A new book based on the diaries of a police officer who served in the earliest days of policing is being published by award-winning police volunteer, John Greenfield.
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Love your local Isle of Wight shops
We note some of the great items to buy locally, at a time when independent businesses need our custom more than ever before.
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Shades of Summer: What to Wear this Month
Zesty orange, sherbet lemon and exotic saffron: we go through the essential colours of the season.
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Where there’s a Will there’s a way: Advice from Glanvilles Damant amid Coronavirus pandemic
When the lockdown was announced earlier this year, Solicitors all across the country were hard at work, writing Wills for people who, fearing the worst, wanted to make sure their affairs were in order should they fall ill.
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The Big Screen Returns: The History of Ryde's cinema, The Commodore
First opening its doors in 1936, The Commodore in Star Street, Ryde has had a fascinating past.
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Ye Olde Village Inn presents 'Backyard Fest'
With years of festival experience behind him, building bars at festivals across the world, landlord Jay Chapman decided that to survive post-coronavirus, he needed to come up with something completely new, using the space that they did have. And so, the Olde Village Inn Backyard Fest was born.
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Wellbeing in the Workplace
Some advice for those who may be facing work struggles during these uncertain times
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Britain’s summer staycations increase value of Isle of Wight homes
As the global Covid-19 pandemic means many Brits may be hesitant to travel abroad, ‘staycations’ are set to become even more popular.
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Direct cremation: An affordable alternative to a traditional funeral
Direct cremation is an affordable alternative to a traditional funeral. The cremation takes place without any service at the crematorium, and without mourners or a minister present.
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Sandown Bay's 'Beach Guy': A tribute to Norman Abram
A striking new mural named ‘Less Flapping, More Flying’ has been painted at The Sundial Cafe, in memory of Norman Abram, who died in 2017.
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Carnival Island: The Story of the New Carnival Company
The Isle of Wight has one of the oldest carnival traditions in the UK. Ryde Carnival began in 1888, and chances are you’ve seen or taken part in at least one of the many colourful and uplifting parades that bring our streets to life every year.
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A History of Women's Lives on the Isle of Wight
Elizabeth Missing Sewell was born on Newport High Street on the 19th February 1815. ‘Missing’, a rather odd choice in middle name, is said to have been her godmother’s surname.
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Our Isle of Wight: The Documentary
Filmmaker Bill Bristow has teamed up with a wealth of local talent to produce a documentary about the incredible history of the Isle of Wight.