The RX-8

Taylor Road 

Carisbrooke 

Newport 

Isle of Wight 

(Next to Argos & 

Island Dreams) 

OPENING HOURS 

Mon - Sat - 9am to 5.00pm 

Sunday - 10.30am to 4.30pm 

Telephone 01983 539700 Facsimile 01983 521181 

Island Life - www.islandlifemagazine.net

Contents 

ISSUE 3 April/May 2006 

25 

8 Foreword (NEW!) 

A great new diary section featuring some of the 

events you can look forward to over the next few 

weeks. 

12 Andy Sutton 

Council leader Andy Sutton has his say on speed 

limits, over-development and tourist coaches – and 

tells us why not even a Lottery win would tempt him 

away from his job. 

16 IW Walking Festival 

Time to dust off those boots for the Island’s popular 

annual walking festival – and we have the details. 

19 David Biles remembers... 

The third generation of a well-known Island farming 

family, David Biles opens his storehouse of colourful 

memories. 

22 John Hannam 

Another great contribution from John. 

25 Society! 

ISLAND LIFE 

Our photo round-up of some of the Island’s bestdressed 

events. 

Island Life - www.islandlifemagazine.net 

12 

19 

WELCOME 

Welcome to the latest issue 

of Island Life, which the 

eagle-eyed among you will 

notice is dated April/May 

and not March/April. So, 

you may ask, what happened 

to March? Well, it’s all 

about ensuring that we end 

up with a Dec/Jan issue at 

the end of the year. The 

good thing is that this also 

means the magazine will 

appear earlier in the month 

from now on – so make sure 

you pick up your copy 

before they run out! The 

next issue date will be 

June/July. 

We never forget though, 

that Island Life belongs to 

its readers – so we’d love to 

hear what you would like to 

see in these pages. Feel 

free to drop us a line or an 

email with your 

suggestions, photos or 

feature ideas, and we’ll do 

our best to get them 

covered. 

Contact: 

The Editor 

Island Life Magazine 

66 Victoria Avenue 

Shanklin 

Isle of Wight 

PO37 6LY 

Tel: 01983 861422 

Mobile: 07976 797455 

info@islandlifemagazine.net 

Editor 

Martin Potter 

Sub Editor 

Jackie McCarrick 

Feature Writers 

John Hannam 

Andrew Turner 

Matt Legge 

Tony Ridd 

Angela Hewitt 

Nick Pointing 

Sales 

Lisa Burtenshaw 

Front Cover: St Mary's Church, 

Brook, Isle of Wight. 

3

4 Island Life - www.islandlifemagazine.net

Contents 

ISLAND LIFE 

26 Sport 

19 or 90? Take the plunge into a sport that 

appeals to all ages. 

28 Food & Drink 

The verdict on Lugleys, Newport. 

31 - Who has plans to keep on building 

restaurants on the Island? 

32 Farming 

Avian Influenza - 10 things you should 

know. 

33 - They‘re the ultimate symbol of Spring 

– but those woolly little lambs need hard 

work and dedication. 

35 - It’s a chicken’s life! We find out how 

better for the bird means better for the 

consumer. 

36 Countryside 

Pictures and results of this years 

Hedgelaying Competition. 

38 Equestrian 

10,600 accidents a year on horses, how can 

we help to prevent this happening? 

39 - Would you take to the saddle again in 

your late 30’s? We found two people who 

did. So how did they get on? 

40 - She’s been bitten, kicked and 

knocked unconscious, but Emma insists 

she still loves her offbeat job. 

41 - Who’s been horsing around with the 

pop icon Madonna? 

42 - He arrived on the Island with just 

£10 in his pocket and a box of tools… but 

where is he now? 

41 


35 

39 

IN YOUR NEXT 

ISSUE June/July 06 

SUPT STEPHANIE 

MORGAN - 

Balancing a high 

powered job with home 

life. 

MORE JOHN HANNAM 

John reveals more 

secrets from the stars. 

SOCIETY PAGES 

We bring you snapshots 

from Island social 

events, including the 

Hunt Ball. 

EATING OUT 

Fultons, how did they 

do? 

MORE FEATURES 

Ventnor Cricket Club, 

Andrew Turner Column, 

The IW Scurry... 

PROPERTY 

Through the Keyhole, we 

take a look inside a well 

known Island property. 

COUNTRYSIDE 

Tony Ridd gives us an 

insight to our beautiful 

countryside. 

5


Contents 

ISLAND LIFE 

44 Gardening 

A drive is more than just a resting place for the 

car! We look at ways to spruce up your 

driveway this Spring. 

46 - Considering a water feature? Check out 

these safety tips before you splash out. 

48 Fashion 

High heels – these shoes are made for posing! 

50 Health & Beauty 

Turn out your cosmetic bag, and stock up with 

the latest colours. We also look at the latest 

form of hair removal - and see what a 

difference it can make to people’s lives. 

52 Travel 

The Seychelles, a collection of 115 jewel-like 

Islands linked together like a string of pearls. 

54 - Where can you dine like a royal? 

56 Island History 

The place that time forgot: we find a remote 

Island location that's eerily stuck in time. 

58 Music & Art 

John Giddings promises: “This years festival 

will blow people away”. We find out why. 

60 Property 

Jumping into the rental business? 

68 Motoring 

The Austin 7 – a classic car that just keeps on 

going. We speak to Nigel Offer about the love 

of his life. Plus, the latest from VW, Citroen, 

Mazda, Skoda and BMW. 

74 Classifieds 

Check out the local businesses that support 

your magazine! 


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56 

46 

IN YOUR NEXT 

ISSUE June/July 06 

JOHN GIDDINGS - 

How the Isle of Wight 

Festival organiser 

managed to turn his love 

of music into a 

successful career. 

UTOPIA SPA 

We visit Melville Hall’s 

new Spa facility. 

BADGERS 

Love them or hate them, 

these striking animals 

are hard to ignore! 

MOTORING 

Nick Pointing test-drives 

the latest models on the 

market. 

7

FOREWORD 

26th May - 29st May 2006 

The Wight 

Diamond Festival... 

Summer kicks off with the 11th Wight Diamond Festival! First run 

in 1996, the Wight Diamond has established itself as 'don't miss' 

event for hundreds of bikers. It's unique combination of superb 

riding, events to suit everyone, on 

site camping, catering, bar and 

entertainment have earned it a 

reputation as the best mountain 

bikers party on the calendar. Last 

years tenth event turned out to be 

our biggest Festival yet with some 

600 people attending! This year 

we'll be upping the ante to make it 

bigger and better still! 

The Wight Diamond Festival 

The weekends events centre on the two day Wight Diamond 

Challenge navigator race, which takes place over Saturday and 

Sunday. This is the ultimate Navigator event using the whole Island 

as it’s course. But if two days of all out competition sounds a little 

too serious for you, enter the Wight Diamond Lite instead - the 

checkpoints are pubs and cafés and prizes will be awarded for 

‘entering into the spirit of the event’! 

If navigating 

isn't your thing 

and you'd rather 

just ride, we're 

putting together 

a choice of 

marked out 40k 

or 60k Wight 

Trail Enduros to 

test your legs on 

Saturday and 

Sunday without 

worrying about 

the map. 

If you've still got 

more riding in you, take on the Twin Peaks on Monday with the 

chance of winning up to £100 for the fastest rider. Alternatively, the 

Monday Chill will offer a more laid back Monday ride before you 

head off for your afternoon ferry. 

As usual the main events will be complemented by a whole heap of 

side-show events and activities going on back at base. The big 

marquee will be back, featuring its usual attractions of food stalls, 

full bar and excellent live music for Sunday nights prize giving party 

(always a lively affair, with music ‘til late and the party going on 

into the small hours. For further information call 0118 976 2491 or 

www.trailbreak.co.uk 

10 THINGS YOU OUGHT TO KNOW ABOUT THE 

Royal Yacht Squadron 

The Duke of 

Edinburgh 

was the 

Commodore 

from 1962-68, 

the patron is 

Her Majesty the 

Queen 

since1953, the 

Admiral is the 

Duke of 

Edinburgh. 

The original building was 

built by Henry V111. In 

1539 it was built as a 

deterrent to the French, 

and proved to be very 

successful as the French have 

not been in Cowes since 

1539. 

The first commodore was 

the Earl of Yarborough, he 

had a yacht called Falcon 

which was armed with 

cannons. The crew signed a 

document to say they can be 

treated as if they were in the 

Royal Navy. (This meant that 

they could be flogged) 

The members built yachts 

and experimented with 

designs which were 

useful to the Royal Navy. 

Because the squadron was 

useful to the navy they were 

given the rights to fly the 

White Ensign. Other clubs 

also had rights, however 

when the Navy went over to 

the White Ensign it was 

agreed that only the 

Squadron could fly the White 

Ensign. 

At the end of the Franco - 

Prussian War, Sir John 

Burgoyne on his yacht 

Gazelle brought the 

Empress Eugenie wife of 

Napoleon the 3rd, back to the 

Royal Yacht Squadron to 

escape the mobs in Paris. 

The squadron was 

challenged by the New 

York Yacht Club, which the 

squadron accepted the challenge 

and this resulted in the start of 

the Americas Cup competition. 

Sir Thomas Sopwith who 

invented the Sopwith 

Camel was a member, and 

he challenged for the 

Americas cup in 1934, and 1937. 

Between 1966/67 Sir 

Francis Chichester was a 

member, he sailed single 

handed, non stop, round 

the world on Gypsy Moth.This 

started the Chichester trophy 

which has been won by Ellen 

Macarthur, other winners were 

Alec Rose and Sir Robin Nox- 

Johnston, 

The pavilion which was of 

great use during the 

Americas Cup Jubilee in 

2001 was built in 2000 to 

celebrate the Millennium. 

The yacht harbour 

which will be ready by 

Easter 2006 is built to 

provide mooring for 

the small yachts and tenders at 

the time of regattas. 

Photograph: 

Peter Mumford/Beken 

8 Island Life - www.islandlifemagazine.net 

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10

IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE.. 

15th April 2006 - 10am 

Top dogs on show 

The Isle of Wight Canine Association 

is hosting a Pedigree Dog Show for 

Kennel Club registered dogs aged 6 

months and over. 

The show will comprise over 100 classes, 

with the chance to see between 200 and 

250 pedigree dogs from both the Island 

and the Mainland. Entrants will be 

assessed by six judges from the 

mainland. The show will include classes 

for puppies aged between 6-12 months, 

veterans aged 7 years and over, gundogs, 

terriers, pastoral, working, utility, and toy 

dogs. The event is held in the indoor 

arena at Brickfields, where food and drink 

will be available. 

Sat 17 June and Sun 18 June 

Austin car 

rally gets 

underway 

Last year saw the 100th 

anniversery of the Austin 

and for this the IW Austin 

Group held a special two 

day show at Haven Street, 

they had over 80 Austins 

turn up, not only from the 

Island but from the 

mainland also. 


special report on the IW 

Garlic festival... 

All visitors are welcome, 

but please note that the 

closing date for entries has 

now passed. 

Telephone: 01983 - 854898 

It was a great success. Their plans for this year (2006) is as 

follows: 

Saturday 

Set off from Godshill (The Old Smithy) 10:15 am then head off 

towards West Wight stopping off en-route at the Ferguson 

Museum, Kings Manor Private Muesum, and then drive onto 

Brighstone for lunch/pinic around mid-day. They intend to end 

up at Calbourne Water Mill for a static display mid afternoon. 

Sunday 

Once again on Sunday the cars will set off from Godshill, 

10:15am, they will travel from Godshill and have a coffee stop 

at Arreton Barns, then over the Brading Downs to make their 

way to Sandown Airport for a static display. 

For further details please call Nigel offer on 01983 872609. 

See feature page: 68/69 

Nigel Offers, Austin 7 “Poppy” 

The 

Andrew 

Turner 

Column 

The Isle of Wight MP... 

How much should we plan for the future? I am not thinking of 

pensions, although many who have paid in throughout their 

lives are beginning to wonder whether those contributions have 

been well-handled on their behalf. 

No. I am thinking of the Island Plan – which has recently been 

the subject of public consultation – and indeed of life in 

general. When I look at my diary I sometimes wonder where 

the spontaneity has gone. Will I be able to go to the Scurry, or 

later in the year a village show, if I have already booked in other 

events that day? Or will I have time to visit my sisters on the 

mainland without setting a weekend aside three months in 

advance? 

The Island Plan is part of a process of planning twenty years 

ahead. It will take the place of another plan – the UDP – which 

was developed from 1996-99, only approved in 2001, and meant 

to last till 2011. It already seems outdated as we feel more and 

more the threat of global warming, pressure on the countryside, 

and demand for trailer parks, superstores and warehouse units 

and the other manifestations of the great God of economic 

growth. But try as we might there is every possibility that the 

plan, once approved, will date just as quickly as its 

predecessors. So people can be forgiven for taking a back seat, 

saying “I’ve already been consulted to death”, and leaving it to 

others. 

One thing which has become apparent to me as your MP is the 

extent to which ‘consultations’ are influenced by lobby groups 

of one kind or another. The big store chains want all-day 

trading on Sundays, despite the damage that it will do to the 

family lives of their staff. The brewers want 24-hour drinking, 

despite the impoverishment of the vulnerable and the misery it 

causes to neighbours. Aviation presses for airports, superstores 

demand planning permissions, the housebuilders – who are 

well-represented in Whitehall – talk about ‘only 1 per cent’ of 

green fields being needed to meet the targets they have 

persuaded the Government to set. And the drug companies and 

food processors persuade us that all ills can be remedied by the 

appropriate chemical concoction. 

That’s why it is so important that readers of Island Life take 

time to look at such plans, to contribute their views, and to 

contact their councillors (and me!). Not everyone wants to be a 

paper-pusher, but someone has to read the small print to make 

sure that we aren’t overwhelmed by the big lobby companies, 

turning the Island into a pale adjunct to the M27 corridor. 

9

FOREWORD 

Fri June 2nd, Sat June 3rd, Sun June 4th 

Old Gaffers 

ooh la-la? 

The historic and 

picturesque town 

and harbour of 

Yarmouth will be 

the venue once 

again for the tenth 

Old Gaffers 

Festival. 

Over the last nine 

years this weekend 

of festivities has 

gradually become one of the major events on the Island’s busy 

summer calendar. 

It offers great family entertainment. ‘The Ghost of Napoleon’ 

will open the Festival at noon on Friday with the usual release 

of red, white and blue balloons and noon day gun fired by the 

Fort Cumberland Guard. 

Several French gaff-rigged vessels are expected this year along 

with the many others that will create a colourful spectacle in 

the harbour. Some of these will take part in the racing in the 

Solent on Friday afternoon. 

The usual attractions on land will also be present including, 

craft and beer tents; food stalls; church flower festival; dog 

show; Big Boy’s Toys field; children’s fun fair; Air Sea Rescue 

and lots of musical entertainment throughout the three days. 

This year there will be French flavour to the event, with a 

French style café street scene in the Square on Friday with 

typical French entertainers and pavement artists. On Saturday 

and Sunday there will a French market with around thirty stalls. 

There will be a chance to dance the night away on Friday and 

Saturday evenings with live music from The Dance Preachers, 

The Accelerators, Dorsal Fin and The Enormous Small Band. 

Tickets are £5 each. 

Car Park available and Park & Ride on Saturday and Sunday. 

Full details in the lucky 

programme on sale soon in 

local shops. 

Contact 01983 761704 

20 THINGS YOU OUGHT TO KNOW ABOUT THE 

IW Pop Festival 

1968 - the first festival 

was held to raise money 

for a swimming pool. 

It takes a whole 10 days 

to put up the stage.. and 

1/2 a day to take it down.. 

On average, every person 

drinks 3 pints of lager a 

day 

In 2003 we sold more 

beer per person than 

Ozzfest... 

The Isle of Wight festival 

in the 60's and 1970 was 

Europe's answer to 

Woodstock.. it was the 

UK's first large festival.. 

before Glastonbury even 

started 

The Who have played the 

festival 3 times now, 

1969, 1970 & 2004 

In 1970 the IOW act was 

passed in Parliament that 

banned large over night 

gatherings of 5000.... until 

2002 

The Beatles came to 

watch Bob Dylan in 1969 

and stayed on a farm in 

Bembridge 

We only narrowly got 

permission to hold the 

festival in 2002.. it was a 

6-5 council vote 

It brings 10 million 

pounds to the Islands 

economy 

Kelly Jones wore a white 

outfit on stage in 2004 as 

a tribute to Bob Dylan 

1970 was Jimi Hendrix's 

penultimate 

performance.. 

In 1968 the site 

boundary was marked 

out with straw bales 

and the toilets were a 

ditch with plastic 

lining. 

Only a quarter of the 

audience are island 

residents 

REM's equipment plane 

was damaged before it 

took off to fly to the 

Island.. it was fixed 

with only an hour to 

spare.. 

Travis sang a 

Morrissey song in 2005 

in tribute to the man 

who pulled out! 

Kate Moss loved the 

Island so much she 

came back the 

following weekend... 

It takes 2.5 hours from 

London to the festival 

Iggy Pop is a big fan of 

Bob Dylan- which is 

why he played the 

festival in 2003 

Bryan Adams enjoyed 

his performance in 

2003, he walked off 

stage and asked when 

he could come back. 


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PUT THIS IN 

YOUR DIARY... 

Fri 7th April, Sat 8th April, Sun 9th April 

IW Jazz Festival 

bigger and better... 


Mottistone Jazz Festival 

14 July to 15 July 

If you missed it last year, make sure you don’t miss 

it again…it’s bigger, better, even more exciting! 

This year sees the third Isle of Wight International Jazz (Divas) 

Festival down in the ‘deep south’ of the UK, Ventnor. The 2006 

event will be featuring an International line-up of jazz music 

designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes and, once again, with a 

special focus on women in jazz, as well as new showcase of young 

talent. 

6th - 16th April 

Fat Cat Real Ale 

& Cider Festival 

The Fat Cat at Freshwater Bay is going to make a song and dance 

of its landmark 10th anniversary in April – by hosting a 10-day 

festival of real ales and ciders and some good old traditional 

music to go with it. 

The event kicks off on Thursday April 6 with a programme by the 

well-known Men of Wight – and the chance for visitors to peruse 

the massive range of over 100 different real ales and ciders on 

offer, and decide which they’ll choose to tantalise their taste buds 

with over the next 10 days. 

Say the organisers: “You are in for a treat! One of the largest real 

ale festivals in Hampshire will be right here on your doorstep. 

There are ales from all over the United Kingdom to sample, from 

3% proof right up to 12.5%. 

“But you can afford to slow down, because you have 10 whole 

days to enjoy this festival!” 

Entry to the festival event is £5, which also buys your beer glass. 

Children are admitted for half price. The evening entertainment 

on offer will include something for everyone – with everything 

from traditional Morris dancers to 

rock ‘n’ roll bands, young talent and 

pop chart hopefuls. 

Food will also be available, and you 

can take your pick from either the Fat 

Cat’s bar menu, or the tea and cake 

stand manned by the WI. There’ll be 

something for everyone at this 

festival, with a family atmosphere 

guaranteed. Make sure you note the 

dates in your diary – from April 6-16. 

The festival promises a relaxing weekend of great jazz and the 

chance to escape the pressures of the 21st Century in the more 

leisurely surroundings of the Victorian seaside resort that’s 

increasingly attracting a community of actors, artists and musicians. 

The main venues for April 7-9 events are all within a short walking 

distance of one another in Ventnor town centre, and include The 

Royal Hotel on Belgrave Road, St.Catherine’s Church on Church 

Street, the large marquee at the Mill Bay on the Esplanade, the 

Winter Gardens, the Ventnor Towers Hotel on Madeira Road, and 

The Boathouse next to The Spyglass Inn on the Esplanade. 

All events are open to ticket holders only, although you could check 

for last-minute availability at the Winter Gardens on the evening. 

Ask yourself, though - is it really worth the risk of missing your 

chosen gig? 

For more information or tickets, check out the website, 

www.jazzdivas.tv or call on 01983 856206. 

Fri 12th, Sat 13th, Sun 14th May 

For ribsters - it is 

the show not to be 

missed! 

RIBEX 2006, to be held on the 12th-14th of May at Cowes Yacht 

Haven, is set to be the stage for a number of companies launching 

brand new product into this rapidly growing international market. 

As the market for RIBs continues to flourish and evolve, not only are 

more and more new manufacturers emerging, but also, many of the 

established brands continue to strengthen their status with the 

launch of innovative new models. Companies such as Scorpion, 

Revenger and Avon are just such examples. 

RIBEX 2006 is proud to announce that this year's show will see the 

launch of a number of exciting new craft never seen before; 

amongst them the Norwegian built stepped hulled 10 metre Arctic 

Blue RIB. Other European and world launches include those made by 

Caesar Marine with their brand new 8.5 metre 90mph sports cruiser, 

as well as the latest in all-weather design from TP Marine of the 

Netherlands. Much anticipation also surrounds the launch of the 

very first RIB model from UK premier motor-yacht builder, Hunton 

Powerboats. 

A whole array of RIBs of all sizes and types, as well as tenders and 

inflatable craft plus key products from engines to gear, is to be 

displayed at this year's event. The show will include sea-trials, 

demonstrations and public interactive events as well as UIM 

championship RIB racing. A must for professionals and enthusiasts 

as well as first time buyers. All information on this year's event, 

(including travel discounts etc) can be found via ribexhibitions.co.uk 

or by calling 01884 266100. 

11

INTERVIEW 

Q& A 

12 

In order to really get to 

know Andy Sutton we asked 

him some quick fire 

questions and these were his 

answers. 

If you could change or 

banish one thing about the 

Isle of Wight what would it 

be? 

The Liberal Democrat Party 

Do you think the ferries 

are too expensive, and 

restrict the amount of 

visitors? 

Yes. 

If the council had the 

opportunity to purchase 

one of the ferry companies 

would they? 

Yes, if we got support from 

central government. 

Would you like to see a 

fixed link? 

NO! 

Would you like to see a 

scheduled airline operate 

from the Island? 

Yes! It’s key for us for the 

2011 Island Games, a year 

ahead of the Olympics. 

I am absolutely 100% behind 

a service from the Island, 

especially if you get a direct 

link into London. We need 

it. 

Would you like to see an 

independent Island? 

No, we are inextricably 

linked into the UK economy. 

However we are taking steps 

to limit the amount of 

people moving to the Island, 

by introducing tough, new 

policies. I think the Island 

has reached maximum 

capacity. 

“I want the IW to have one 

of the best-performing 

local authorities in the UK” 

Council leader Andy Sutton hated school, made his mark in the 

Army – and now has a grand vision for the Isle of Wight. 

What’s in it? We went to find out. 

Council leader Andy Sutton was born in Leeds in 

1953, the elder of two children. His parents were 

both artists who met at art college and his mother 

still lives in Yorkshire, Andy’s father died when he 

was 17. His mother, now in her 70s, is still working 

and involved with the Yorkshire Art Society. 

Andy’s sister, 13 years his junior, works for the DSS 

on the mainland. 

“It’s strange,” says Andy, “that both my parents were 

artists, and yet both my sister and myself ended up 

working in government. I was not interested in art. 

“the Island needs 

its own scheduled airline” 

My main passion from an early age was computers. I 

must say computers are still my main passion, which 

is a bit sad I suppose!” 

Andy describes his upbringing as pretty strict and oldfashioned, 

with a mother who ruled the roost. He 

regularly got the “odd clip round the ear” which he 

reckons might have done him some good. Andy puts 

his success in life down to a good Yorkshire 

upbringing … and a good healthy Yorkshire diet. 

He left his comprehensive school at 15 with no 

qualifications, and admits to having hated his time in 

class. 


“I didn’t enjoy those years at all” he says. “I left at 15 

to work as a vehicle mechanic apprentice for Wallace 

Arnold, in Leeds. I really enjoyed that, and in a 

strange way it got me back into education. Within a 

year I was in the top technical grade at Leeds College. 

However if I’m honest I didn’t like getting my hands 

dirty, so I began looking around, and this is when the 

armed forces caught my attention.” 

Andy joined the Army at 17 because, he says, he 

didn’t like the monotony of the 9 to 5 routine. He 

was ambitious and loved a challenge, which might 

explain why he made his way up the ranks to 

become the youngest Sergeant in the Royal Corps of 

Transport, at only 24. 

At the age of 21,the former school-hater Andy had 

taken his ‘O’ Levels, and then at 24 he went on to 

gain 4 ‘A’ Levels, 

“Taking them at this age was hard work, although I 

actually enjoyed doing it. I think the problem with 

school was it never fired my imagination, whereas 

the Army did”. 

During his Army career, Andy did tours in Northern 

Ireland, and then spent 14 of his 23 years service in 

Germany, where he taught in nuclear, chemical and 

biological warfare. He also served in Warminster, 

Wiltshire, where he was a Platoon Weapons 

Instructor. 

By the time he retired from the Army, he’d risen to 

the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major. 

When he left in 1993, he opted for another uniform 

and worked as an officer in the prison service at 

Parkhurst. “It was not the most enjoyable time of my 

life,” he recalls, “but it kept the shekels coming in.” 

Andy had first come to the Isle of Wight during his 

Army days, when he worked on the range at 

Porchfield, and it was here that he met his second 

wife Maureen. 

So was it love at first sight? 

“Yes it was” he says, “and that goes for the Island as 

well I suppose” 

Andy and his wife were married at Freshwater. He 

has two daughters from his first marriage, both of 

whom live on the mainland, one working in the 

prison service and the other who is happy as a fulltime 

mum of two. 

In 2001 when Andy became leader of the opposition, 

he reduced his hours at Parkhurst to 19 hours a 

week, and spent the rest of the time with his 

consultancy company, doing exams with the 

Development and Improvement Agency. 

“That flourished for me, as I ended up going round 

working with the Audit Commission and with the 

Improvement Development Agency inspecting and 

reviewing other authorities. This gave me a good 

knowledge base, as I visited places from the North of 

England right down to the South Coast.” 

It was this experience that stoked Andy’s interest in 

politics, and led to his success in the 1999 by-election 


“I cannot live 

without 

Sainsburys” 

when he took over from David Holmes. 

”I also stood in the 2001 election, won my seat, but 

unfortunately did not gain overall control of the 

council, so again I became Leader of the Opposition. 

At this time we concentrated all our efforts on the 

Parliamentary seat, and in 2001 we won it, which 

was a fantastic result. I spent the next four years as 

leader of the opposition, keeping a group of 13 

councillors together.” 

This must have been a testing time for him? 

“It was very frustrating,” he said, “to see things going 

wrong, but not being listened to. A good example was 

the Pop Festival, which we tried to stop the council 

from running. This, as we all know, ended up losing 

nearly £400,000. This should have gone to the private 

sector from the start. Those were an extremely 

frustrating four years.” 

But he says that far from making him want to throw 

in the towel, the sheer frustration increased his 

INTERVIEW 

Can Island tourism ever 

complete with package 

holidays abroad? 

I don’t think it can at the 

moment. But it has a great 

opportunity if you look at 

the next 20/30 years, 

especially if global warming 

is going to continue at the 

rate it is. 

Name one building that 

you would love to 

demolish on the Island? 

County Hall. 

Do you think we should 

have an overall speed limit 

of 40mph? 

No. Modern cars cannot 

travel at 40mph. 

Is the infrastructure there 

to keep building these 

large housing 

developments? 

No, the infrastructure is not 

there and until it is we will 

not continue building these 

large developments. 

Where is your favourite 

spot on the Island? 

The Needles. 

If you had to sum up the 

IW in 3 words what would 

they be? 

Progressive, vibrant and 

magical. Would I ever go 

back to Leeds? No! 

What shop could you NOT 

live without on the Island? 

Sainsburys - and e-bay. 

What would you say is the 

best thing about the Isle of 

Wight? 

The people. 

And the worst? 

The culture of talking it 

down, the negativity. That 

old Island saying, “It won’t 

work here” 

If you were invisible for 

the day where would you 

go and what would you 

do? 

I would go to St Ormond’s 

Street Hospital, because 

that’s where you realise 

there are real problems out 

there. 

13

INTERVIEW 

14 

If you won the lottery, 

would you continue? 

Yes, I’m sure I would. It’s not 

about the money. 

What’s your favourite threecourse 

meal? 

Garlic Mushrooms, Fillet 

Steak, Cheese & Biscuits. 

If you have dinner with 

anyone in the world dead or 

alive who would it be? 

Churchill. 

If you could ask any one in 

the world one question, who 

and what question would it 

be? 

David Cameron, How he sees 

the future for local democracy 

and local government. 

Where’s your dream holiday 

location? 

British Columbia 

Who are better and more 

organised workers, men or 

women? 

Women. 

If you were given 50 million 

pounds to improve one thing 

on the Island what would 

you spend it on? 

The roads, they are the key to 

everything. 

Do you think there is still 

room for large 

supermarkets? 

We are at the top end of the 

threshold now. 

What’s your favourite music? 

Last Night of the Proms 

Your Favourite Car? 

Range Rover. I have had two 

Discoverys, two Freelanders, 

and two Range Rovers. 

determination to fight for change. 

“Actually what the administration did by ignoring me, 

was to give me a four year planning period to ensure 

that the Island council changed control, so Islanders 

could have a good council, delivering services that 

people wanted, and also offering value for money.” 

So how did the Tories manage their landslide victory 

in the 2005 election? 

“I had been working very closely with the MP 

Andrew Turner and a small select group of people to 

ensure we were elected” says Andy. 

“I had been lambasted in the council chamber three 

years before in 2002 for advertising in the County 

Press for people who would come and make a real 

difference and become Conservative councillors. Two 

and a half years from the election I had 35 candidates 

and 13 sitting councillors working together and 

planning the campaigns, going round knocking on 

“coaches put 

very little 

into the 

Islands 

economy” 

doors, working out the manifesto.” 

When Andy arrived for his first day as Council Leader 

he says he was aware many council employees were 

concerned about their jobs. 

“I’m quite keen to out-source services if I can get a 

better value for money price for the taxpayer” he 

says. “There were a lot of people within the Council 

it was vital to look at output. We stopped a lot of 

recruitment right from day one, and if you look at 

the Council job section now in the County Press 

you’ll notice it is greatly reduced.” 

“Also within a month we changed the redundancy 

policy. We are the only local authority in the whole of 

the UK to only give statutory redundancy payments. 

People who have been in the same job for many years 

either have to respond to the new opportunities, or 

they go elsewhere and look for a another comfort 

zone, maybe another local authority that isn’t 

modernising and moving at the pace we are.” 

Andy reckons his previous experience of visiting 

successful councils and seeing how they operate, is 

now starting to pay dividends, with cost savings of 

5% even before the end of his first financial year. 

“The previous council did not communicate between 

departments and it did not communicate with the 

electorate,” says Andy. “This is why we have already 

hosted meetings across the Island, talking about how 

the Council is going to change, and the fact that we 

are going to keep people up-to-date with what’s 

happening.” 

“I see the Town Parish Councils playing a bigger role 

in the future They are an important part of the 

overall picture, and powers are slowly moving back to 

these local Parish Councils, which, as a born localist, I 

am happy about.” 

Andy is also keen to curb the ever-increasing 

development on the Island, he said, 

“Before we build all these houses that Mr Prescott 

wants built, we have to ensure we have the 

infrastructure in place to service them – the schools, 

the nurses and doctors, the decent roads and sewage 

systems. 

“The other day I had calls from residents in 

Freshwater complaining that they had raw sewage 

running through their gardens. This is a good 

example of over-development, and it has to be 

controlled”. 

Two of the main policies that the Conservatives 

promoted very heavily were on bus fares and parking 

fees - the £1 bus fare, and a yearly parking permit. 

With many residents complaining that these are slow 

in coming, are they ever going to happen? 

“It’s still our intention to keep this promise, we have 

already introduced free bus (Southern Vectis and 

Wight Bus) and rail (Island Line) travel for the over 

60’s, and in addition to this we have introduced a 

50p bus fare for the under 19’s in full time 

education.” 


Tourism is a major area of Andy’s concern and he has 

some pretty stringent views on what needs to be 

done. 

Coaches, he reckons, do not do the Island’s roads any 

good. “They put absolutely nothing into the Island 

economy, nothing, apart from damaging our roads. 

When a coach party goes out for the day, they spend 

very little - in fact almost nothing. How does this 

help the Island?” 

So if the coaches go, what replaces them and what do 

the coaching hotels do? 

“We know there is a demand for walking and cycling, 

because we have all the statistics. There’s also clear 

evidence when you look at all the data that the best 

hotels have got an 85% occupancy rate all year round, 

and the lower hotels have not. To some degree the 

commercial market will drive that.” 

“We need to look at a fairer charging policy for 

coaches coming over, so the local community and the 

local authority get a bigger take from that market. We 

will look at increasing the coach parking charges. We 

want to shape the market, and go for higher value 

tourism.” 

“We also need to extend the season - it’s essential for 

the Island business community that we do this. It’s 

about encouraging the pounds out of the pockets of 

the visitors who come here.” 

“We will never get rid of coaches, but we can shape 

the bucket and spade brigade, and turn the Island’s 

tourism on its head. We need to shape the battle 

ground, as I would say with my military background.” 


“the Needles are magical, 

I love the West Wight” 

INTERVIEW 

15

walking 

Isle of Wight 

festival 

6 to 21 May 

It is anticipated that thousands 

of walkers will once again take 

to the footpaths on the Island 

for the Isle of Wight Walking 

Festival be they new or regular 

walkers to the event. The 

eighth annual festival once 

again promises 16 full days of 

over 200 walks to choose from. 

The Island celebrates its 

reputation as one of the best 

destinations in the UK for 

walking pursuits. Be it your 

first or eighth year of 

participation, we promise you 

won’t be disappointed with the 

programme. 

Well being and inner beauty is 

the theme of the Walking 

Festival this year. Walkers can 

release inner beauty, uplift 

mind, body and spirit, take part 

in a revitalising walks in Areas 

of Outstanding Natural Beauty, 

bringing harmony to your inner 

self, keep youthful. 


Keep young and beautiful - Walking with children 

Physical activity is essential to a child’s development. The earlier 

that exercise is introduced into your child’s life, the greater the 

chance that they will carry this pattern through into adulthood. 

Walking with children, whether power walking or simply brisk 

walking, is a great way to get them moving. You’ll provide them 

with an important role model and firmly plant the idea that 

walking is a natural and normal activity. 

Walking can be made fun. Children will walk further when there is 

something to see and do along the way. Try different routes that 

take in parks, streams or woods, or why not collect some 

interesting things along the way? 

Tuning into teenagers 

Walking is an ideal way for teenagers to control their weight 

healthily and sensibly. 

Teenagers need challenges, so activities such as hiking or 

orienteering are good ways to keep them active. 

Take control and think positive and beautiful thoughts 

Knowing how to take the first step towards meeting a challenge is 

what separates those who achieve their goals from those who don’t. 

With the right attitude and simple techniques, any one of us can 

make the changes we want and work towards achieving our dreams. 

It just takes practice and courage. 

- Walking outdoors takes you into the sunshine instead of the 

unnatural lighting indoors. The combination of physical exercise 

and natural light releases a ‘feel-good’ chemical in the brain. 

- Most people have positive feelings about being in the countryside. 

Psychologically, we benefit by thinking of our next walk. 


FEATURE 

Feel fit and beautiful inside and out. Increase your circulation. 

Exercising brings a healthy glow to your skin so put your ‘Wight 

foot forward’. 

Sample of new walks for 2006 – we have added a few unusual 

walks to the programme this year, they include Tai Chi Walk, 

Meditation Walk, Speed Dating and Fire Walk. You even have the 

opportunity to join the Editor of Country Walking Magazine – 

Johnathan Manning on two of his favourite walks. 

New for 2006 Walking alone? No longer! 

The Isle of Wight Walking Festival’s new ‘speed dating walk’ gives 

you the chance to meet the ‘perfect person’ or just to have a lot of 

fun with like-minded people. 

The speed dating walk, 13th May - will be along around Sandown 

Bay with stops en route for liquid refreshments and food. This 

walk promises to be a lot of fun so sign up now and possibly 

change your life! Meet at the Longshoreman Shanklin Esplanade at 

2.00 pm for a leisurely walk along the coastline. Prior booking is 

essential. For details contact (01983) 203888. 

17

FEATURE 

Non-stop walk around the Island is back again for 2006. It is a 

unique opportunity to take part in a non-stop walk around the 

Island enjoying the breathtaking coastline – a very popular 72 mile 

challenge completed in 24 hours. Not for the faint-hearted! 

Freedom to roam the Island – An Area of Outstanding Natural 

Beauty 

Over half of the Island is recognised as an Area of Outstanding 

Natural Beauty, with its dramatic and breathtaking 60 miles of 

Heritage Coastline, unspoilt countryside and over 500 miles of well 

maintained and signposted footpaths, the destination has long been 

a source of inspiration to visitors. 

For a taste of this, follow in the footsteps of the Poet Laureate, 

Alfred Lord Tennyson along the 12 mile Tennyson Trail in the West 

Wight, or take a stroll in the stunning gardens of Osborne House, 

Queen Victoria’s much loved and enchanting residence at East 

Cowes.d 

The Isle of Wight Walking Festival Official Guide 

The official 44 page Walking Festival programme is now available 

with full listings of the fantastic festival walks. Copies available 

from all Tourist Information Centres and Isle of Wight Council 

Leisure Centres. 

Log onto our website for full details of the festival: 

www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk 

Walk the Wight 

Sunday 14 May A walk across the Island, taking you on a voyage of 

discovery through some of the most beautiful scenery on the Island 

and raising funds for the Earl Mountbatten Hospice. Walkers have 

the choice of three distances depending on your inclination and 

ability. 

- Bembridge to Carisbrooke Castle - 12.5 miles 

- Carisbrooke Castle to Alum Bay 

(following the Tennyson Trail) - 14 miles 

- Bembridge to Alum Bay via Carisbrooke Castle – 26.5 miles 

Further information Tel: (01983) 528989 or visit the website: 

www.walkthewight.org.uk 


Memories of an 

Island life 

As the third generation of well-known 

Island farming family, Newport-born David 

Biles is a storehouse of colourful memories 

– from bidding on cattle at the age of seven, 

to his days as the Island’s knackerman, his 

car rallying exploits and the terrifying days 

of WWII. He shared some of them here. 

David was born in 1935 in Newport, six 

years after his only other sibling, sister 

Joyce Pattie. 

Their father Harold was a local farmer and 

knackerman, his mother Annie a hardworking 

farmer’s wife who pulled her 

weight in the business, and was known on 


occasion to have cut up half a ton of pet 

food before breakfast. At that time the 

family lived at Devonia (now called The 

Birches) on Forest Road, next to what is 

now Snows BMW Garage. 

One vivid memory of these early days is 

leaving his tricycle in the middle of the 

road, where the local baker ran over it. 

David remarked “I don’t leave things in 

anybody’s way anymore. I learnt my lesson 

the hard way at the age of four!” 

David was always encouraged by his parents 

to get involved with the community and 

mix with people – in fact, at the tender age 

INTERVIEW 

of just four, he was dispatched to be an ice 

cream boy, (stop me and buy one), in 

Newport Carnival. 

During the war, the current Snows( BMW) 

was a factory where Mosquito’s (wooden 

aeroplanes) were built, so the Biles’ house 

was commandeered as an office for the 

Chief Engineers. This meant they moved 

into their old family home with his 

grandparents at Trafalgar Cottage, Union 

Street, where David was brought up, in 

those days the telephone no was Newport 

79, a bit different from today. 

He recalled how, in those days, parents were 

very different. In terms of explaining things 

to their children: “I remember on one 

occasion I asked my father a question, and 

he turned round and apologised and said to 

me, ‘I’m sorry David, have I not explained 

that to you?” 

“My father used to take me everywhere 

with him. I was bidding for cattle at the age 

of seven. He would poke me on the foot 

with his old stick when it was time to stop 

bidding. I also remember he used to send 

me off to farm sales to buy old harnesses 

that were not used anymore after the war. I 

used to have to clean it up and then sell it 

again, and that’s how I learned the skill of 

bidding. Although I still have a lot of what I 

bought then still stored away in a shed.” 

David has vivid memories of the war as a 

child, and can remember that most of the 

time at home they slept in what they called 

“table shelters”. 

“I vividly remember when Moreys were 

bombed, and because our house was built 

properly, I remember the thick plate glass 

from our windows flying everywhere”. 

He also recalls watching the fighter planes 

battling it out, and loved watching the 

pilots come down with their parachutes 

open. 

David’s early school days were spent at the 

National School, Newport, (which is now a 

block of flats) and at the age of eight he 

went on to Ryde School as a weekly boarder. 

He was accompanied to the school by his 

friend Terry Wood, whose father used to 

own The Bugle Hotel in Newport. 

“One vivid memory of Ryde School was the 

night before D-Day. I remember seeing the 

Solent and Spithead full with boats, in fact 

you could almost have walked to 

Portsmouth, there were so many boats! You 

couldn’t see water. I woke the next morning 

to find it empty, not a boat in sight. That 

was a fantastic memory”. 

David admits he was not a great lover of 

school, and at the age of 13 his parents 

were told by Ryde school that they didn’t 

think they could take him any further, so he 

returned to King James School, and became 

19

INTERVIEW 

involved in the Combined Cadet Force, and 

soon became Battery Sergeant Major, 

“I loved the drilling, the soldiering, and I 

was a first class shot. I then became Head 

boy of King James School and left at the age 

of 17.” 

On leaving school, David went to work for a 

year in his father’s business, which had 

been running for three generations on the 

Island. His father who was a cattle dealer, 

farmer and knackerman, used to pick up 

dead cattle to feed the pigs. However, when 

the war started there was a large demand 

for the best meat from the shot cows and 

horses they had previously collected to be 

used for pet food. 

“I remember we had to put a green dye on 

the meat so as people could not eat it, and 

the demand for the meat was so great we 

had to issue ration cards, so people could 

only have 2lb per household. The meat was 

prepared at Park Green Farm and then sold 

from Trafalgar Cottage. There used to be 

100 people queuing up to buy it. It was 

funny, because when meat came off 

rationing the following morning the queue 

dwindled to two. 

After working with his father for a year, 

David volunteered for National Service in 

1953, and he recalls “These were a happy 

two years of my life. If you said ‘Yes Sir, No 

Sir’ in the right places, you could get away 

with anything really.” 

David says in fact that had he not had the 

family business to return to, he would have 

been happy to sign up for the Army, as he 

enjoyed it so much. 

David carried out his National Service at 

Aldershot and Blandford. One story he tells 

is of the time he hitch-hiked from the 

barracks at Blandford to Liverpool to attend 

the Grand National, 

“It was 1953 - I hitch-hiked to Liverpool and 

slept on the station platform, then I had 

some breakfast in the fish market. I 

remember carrying the bookmakers’ boards 

to the racecourse for them, I also remember 

walking round the course. I had a bet and 

lost my money, so I only had a few shillings 

left. In those days you had to put a deposit 

on a cup, for a cup of tea, so I drank the tea 

and then bought a pork pie when I got the 

deposit back. I had no money to get back to 

the barracks, so I got back to Lime Street 

station by offering to carry the bookmakers’ 

boards for them. When I arrived at Lime 

Street I said to the Guard I want to get back 

to London but I have no money, so he said 

go and wait over there until I call you. I 

ended up travelling back to London with 

Raymond Glendenning and all the reporters 

from the race, drinking whisky and eating 

lots of ham sandwiches. I arrived at 

London, walked across to Waterloo, talked 

my way onto another train and in those 

days at Portsmouth station they always kept 

a train heated because of all the troops, so I 

slept on this train. A policeman would 

come and call you in the morning for the 

mail boat going back to the Island at four 

o’clock in the morning. I walked back home 

from Newport Station, slept for the day and 

then got some money and went back to 

Blandford that night”. 

During his National Service, David's father 

summoned David back home one weekend 

to ask him if he wanted Somerton (the farm 

where he still lives) to live and work from. 

If David hadn’t wanted it, his father had 

received an offer on the farm, and he was 

going to sell it. 

“I made the best decision of my life and 

told my father I definitely wanted the farm 

once I had finished my National Service. In 

those days each generation of our family 

was handed down a property from which to 

earn a living. My grandad bought the 

knackers yard along Forest Road, my dad 

bought the one I live in currently, and I 

bought the farm in Calbourne where Sam 

and his family are going to live shortly, 

that's how it’s built up.” 

“My father was a well dressed man who 

liked his cars, so every year he bought a 

brand new car and on this occasion he 

bought a shiny new Vauxhall Cresta. At this 

time he used to have a chap move the pig 

manure in a Model T Ford Lorry from Park 

Green Farm back to Somerton and was paid 

30 bob (shillings) a load, so one day, dad 

followed this chap and saw that he was only 

half filling the lorry, so he drove his car into 

the middle of this field, got out and gave 

this chap a real bollocking (David’s words!). 

“Anyhow, when dad had ran out of steam, 

he turned round to get into his car and 

found it was gone. He asked the chap where 

it had gone, and the chap turned round, and 

calmly said, ‘I can see something sparkling 

David enjoying a days hunting on Mitty. 

down there in the stream’. 

It seems that whilst my father had been 

laying into the old chap, the car had rolled 

down the hill and into the stream. The chap 

of course found this most amusing. So this 

chap helped dad pull the brand new car 

from the stream. It was badly damaged and 

dad later received an invoice from the old 

chap for pulling the car out of the river 

using dads lorry, which I don’t think dad 

paid!” 

“After I had completed my two years 

National Service I returned home to 

Somerton, which I later inherited, and 

worked for him. During this period I was 

admitted to hospital for appendicitis, and 

whilst I was in hospital my father was 

admitted to the ward above me after 

suffering a severe heart attack in Newport 

Market. In those days, they were not as 

advanced as they are today and 


unfortunately my father died of a heart 

attack at the age of 61. That was the worst 

day of my life, 18th July 1961. 

“The most memorable time with my father 

was the year before he died, when he won 

the overall points championship at the 

agricultural show with horses, cattle and 

sheep. That was the height of his career. 

“After my father’s death, all his friends 

rallied round and gave my mother and I lots 

of help and advice which helped to keep the 

business going. During these years my 

mother was a rock, and that was the time 

when she and I formed the company A & D 

Biles, which we are still called today even 

though my mother passed away on 

November 2nd 1988 at the age of 86. 

However out of respect, I still trade under 

the family name.” 

David continued working in the knacker 

business whilst also working for the Fat 

Stock Marketing Corporation for 25 years, 

and says that at this time of his life he was 

extremely busy. 

“During these years I built a really good 

friendship with my brother in-law. We used 

to do a lot of sport together. We used to go 

car rallying, and I remember in the 60’s we 

won the Daily Telegraph Trophy for the best 

Isle of Wight Car. He even told my sister 

once that he would rather fall out with her 

than he would with me! We were there for 

each other, I suppose”. 

David courted his wife Diana for three years 

after a chance meeting at the Channel View 

Hotel in Shanklin. “Diana worked in London 

at the time, and could only come to the 

Island weekends” he says. “At the time this 

suited me, because as a bachelor this gave 

me all week to go out with my friends!” 

“Diana was never allowed to miss the last 

train back to London on the Sunday 

evening... If she had not said to me when 

are we going to get married, I suppose she 

would still be going up and down to London 

on a train even today. Even when she sort 

of asked me if I would like to get married, I 

wriggled. I remember we went to 

Newmarket races and she asked me outright 

are we going to get married. I suppose I was 

about 30 then, and I said then, ‘No I’m not 

ready yet, there’s a lot to live, so we sort of 

called the job off’. 

“Anyhow we did agree that if we met again 

we would get married. Diana was a clever 

woman so she sent a message via one of the 

local girls that she was going to be in 

London New Years Eve, and that she was 

going abroad to work, so I thought she 

might be going to America, because we were 

not corresponding at the time. So I decided 

that I would travel to London on New Year’s 

Eve, although at the time I wasn’t sure 

whether to go to London or see my mate in 

Dorset. I went round the roundabout in the 

New Forest about six times before I decided 

to go to London. 


I arrived at Trafalgar Square and still did not 

have the pluck to pop the question. We 

eventually got round to it two or three days 

later. So I called grandpa in Nottingham and 

told him he had better get the champagne 

out, and he replied ‘We drank that a long 

time ago!’, as he was fed up of being 

messed about. 

David and Diana finally married in 1965, at 

Edwalton in Nottinghamshire. They still 

have many good friends in Nottingham, and 

see them regularly. 

Within three years of marriage David and 

Diana had their first child, a son named 

Samuel (Sam). 

“In those days Sam was a very modern 

name. At the time there were two quite 

well known Island characters with that 

name - one was Samuel Watson the 

auctioneer, and the other Samuel Mole the 

famous butcher from St Helens who drove 

carriages, both of whom thought I had 

named my son after them, but I named him 

Sam so I could shout it quickly - something 

short. But because Sammy Mole thought I 

had named Sam after him, he left him a 

David pictured on Duke 

with grandson George Biles 

very valuable carriage. 

INTERVIEW 

After being brought up on his family’s farm, 

Sam went on to study Land Management, 

and subsequently became a partner in the 

well known Island Estate Agents Creasey 

Biles & King. He’s now now married and 

lives on the Island with his wife and three 

children. 

A few years after Sam’s birth David and 

Diana had Sophie, who is now 36, married 

and lives on the mainland. Sophie is heavily 

involved in carriage driving, in fact she is a 

BDA Judge and has just written a book on 

the subject of carriage driving. They have 

just had the good news that she is expecting 

her first child. 

“I have had a wonderful life,” says David. 

“There have been some ups and downs 

along the way, we are a family that’s been 

brought up by kindness and we have built 

our business by that – more so than 

perhaps by being realistic. To us, a deal still 

is done on a handshake. Sadly those days 

are disappearing. I like people and I still 

live life to the full, and I am determined to 

enjoy every minute of every day” 

Picture: County Press 

21

JOHN HANNAM 

Gone 

but not 

forgotten 

After thirty four years of interviewing famous people I often think 

back to moments that I will never forget and to real stars like Benny 

Hill, Frankie Howerd, Sir John Mills, Donald Pleasence, Matt Monro, 

Tommy Cooper and Bobby Moore. I’d like to share a few special 

memories of stars that are gone but certainly not forgotten. 

Roy Castle was one of the most wonderful people I ever met. I first 

saw him in cabaret at the Ponda Rosa, Ryde, where he broke all the 

attendance records over several nights. Roy was a true gentleman. 

Nothing was too much trouble and he was loved by both fans and 

his fellow performers. I interviewed him several times and he was 

always courteous and entertaining. 

The last time I interviewed him is still a vivid memory although 

there was not a happy ending. We met at an hotel in Southsea on 

the day he starred in a special charity concert at the nearby Kings 

Theatre, to help raise funds for cancer relief. That week Roy had 

been given the all-clear from his own cancer and he was literally 

walking on air and so inspirational both on and off stage. As we all 

know, sadly, he eventually lost his brave fight. 

Frankie Howerd had been a comedy hero of mine for many years and 

when he came to the Island for a short summer season at Sandown 

Pavilion, I could hardly wait. He was fascinating to interview and I 

got to know him well. Imagine my delight when he asked if he could 

take my wife and me out to a post-show dinner. We arranged a 

babysitter prepared to stay to around 2am and headed for The 

Culver Haven, at Bembridge. 

Frank also brought along his manager, Dennis, and his pianist 

Madame Dixon, who has recently passed away. It was a little sombre 

in the bar until I mentioned tennis and the recent Borg v McEnroe 

Wimbledon final, when it really was a sport for compulsive viewing. 

He took off from that moment and never stopped talking for the 

next two hours or more. I came under scrutiny during the meal. He 

22 

BY JOHN HANNAM 

Bob Monkhouse 

asked me if I ever thought about death and then went on to ask my 

wife several personal questions about me. It was a memorable night 

and I had really dressed up for the occasion. Frank, as expected, not 

looking quite so sartorially elegant, appreciated this. 

When Tommy Cooper came to Sandown in 1982 for a short season it 

had to be curtailed because he was unwell. Around six thousand 

were lucky enough to see a true legend. I took my two youngsters to 

witness a genuine one-off. They loved every minute. 

I interviewed him early in the week and found him quite lonely. He 

asked me if I would like to go down on some other nights, after the 

show, for a chat and company. What an unexpected pleasure and he 

shared a few secrets. I was one of at least twenty million who saw 

his final performance on TV’s Live from the Palladium, when he 

died on stage. It was such an emotional moment but, in reality, the 

way he would have chosen for his final curtain call. 

Quite recently Danny Williams, who topped the pop charts all over 

the world with Moon River, passed away. He was, unexpectedly, 

diagnosed with an illness whilst in hospital for something else and 

died within a couple of weeks. 

I loved his company and he was always fun to be with. I also had 

the honour of interviewing him live on stage at the Medina Theatre, 

Newport. One of pop music’s great voices, too. Sadly, I had an 

interview with him in the can, recorded in Yarmouth, and had not 

played it on air. I never imagined it would eventually be played to 

celebrate his life. 

I remember Lennie Peters, of Peters and Lee, for a few reasons. The 

man had such an amazingly soulful voice and his vocal talents were 

really not appreciated as much as they should have been. He was 

such a genial and fun loving character. Once he told me he kept fit 

by cycling many miles. I thought this quite extraordinary for a blind 


Tommy Cooper 

person. Then he let slip it 

was his exercise bike. 

The very last time I was with 

Lennie was a little scary. It 

was at Warner’s Bembridge 

Coast Hotel. He asked me to 

light a cigarette and put it in his mouth. This was completely alien 

to me and my hand was shaking. In the end – it all went up in 

smoke, anyway. I still keep in touch with Di Lee (the other half of 

Peters and Lee) and her husband Rick Price, one of The Move and 

Wizzard. 

Bob Monkhouse was a star’s star. He had such a tremendous 

reputation amongst other performers. So clever at everything he did 

and he could turn on the TV charm in an instant. Off stage he was 

also such a lovely guy with a fund of stories and quips. He could 

change his act every night to include fresh jokes. I was so thrilled 

that he wrote the forward to my book, I Was A Stage Door Johnny. 

The first time I met Bob I picked him up from the ferry and took 

him to the Hotel Ryde Castle. After I dropped him I noticed 

chocolate all over the car seat. My two youngsters had made rather a 

mess earlier in the day. He had a marvelous suit on but I could never 

buck up the courage to ask him if it was covered in chocolate. A year 

or two later I was giving him a lift from IW Radio to the Swainston 

Hotel, at Calbourne. He asked if he could do a little shopping in the 

then David’s store in Carisbrooke. He came out clutching his Spar 

carrier bag. 

My mother’s favourite singer was always Ruby Murray and she was 

so thrilled when I had Ruby on my radio show. Ruby was a true 

megastar in the 50s. In one epic week she had five records in the 

same Top Twenty. Not even the Beatles could match that. Sadly, she 

had been fleeced by people around her and had to sell her home to 

pay off huge bills. It meant she never had the money her talents 

merited. The first time I met her she was hoping to win money on 

the Sun Lottery. By rights, she should have been living in a huge 

mansion and not working small holiday camps. 

When Ruby appeared live on my radio show she held on to my arm 

for the whole broadcast, as she was naturally very nervous. Her 

singing son, Tim also came along as a surprise guest. 


JOHN HANNAM 

The 2005 death of John Peel was such a great shock to so many 

people. He was a disc jockey with no ego and was genuinely 

surprised by his following. There was no way he was full of his own 

importance. What he did for unknown bands was quite remarkable. 

I visited his Suffolk home on two occasions and he was a perfect 

host. Eating a meal with the great Peely and his lovely wife Sheila is 

still a wonderful memory. Being in the same cottage as twenty six 

thousand vinyl records was also another milestone. It was just as 

well that the Peels provided a taxi service to and from the station. It 

really was out in the sticks – and he loved it. London was not his 

cup of tea and he could never relax there. 

Back in 1989 the much-missed local agent Sylvia Thorley, who smiled 

her way through any problems, rang me up and invited me to her 

end-of-season lunch party at the Lincoln Hotel, on Shanklin 

seafront. It was to thank all the entertainers who had worked for 

her on the Island during that summer season. Sylvia hinted Benny 

Hill might be coming over as a surprise guest. Sylvia had provided 

Benny with one or two fabulous local girls who became part of the 

famous Hill’s Angels television group. Low and behold he turned up. 

Ruby Murray 

Benny Hill 

Continues on page 24... 

23

JOHN HANNAM 

Continued from page 23... 

Benny was in his element. He instantly said yes to my interview 

request and was surrounded by a table full of local lovelies. 

When I approached the Southampton Echo a few days later to ask if 

they were interested in a feature on Benny Hill, they jumped at my 

offer. He would not do an interview for them. It seemed uncanny 

that two of Britain’s most successful comedy stars, Benny Hill and 

Frankie Howerd, should die over the same Easter weekend in 1992. 

I have been a lifelong admirer of Matt Monro and feel so privileged 

to have been considered a friend of his. I still see his family and 

have had his widow, son and daughter on my radio show. Matt was a 

British singer to rival and surpass many of his American 

contemporaries. The very last time I saw him was at the Savoy 

Holiday Centre, at Yarmouth, for a special charity show for the 

R.N.L.I. Just a month or two later his illness was made public. That 

was the night I almost pushed a mindless and arrogant yuppie into 

the urinals, after a rude comment about Matt. I still regret not doing 

it. 

I took a picture of Matt, in his dressing room, which never came 

out, and recorded an interview with him, which I have never been 

able to find. Quite remarkable. 

I met a couple of my idols in unexpected places. The legendary 

Bobby Moore came for a public appearance at Buywise, Newport, and 

proved such a perfect ambassador for British sport and nothing was 

too much trouble. I wonder what he would make of all these foreign 

mercenaries who now play in our domestic game. The other was the 

chilling Donald Pleasence, who was filming at Niton Undercliff. I’d 

seen Halloween a couple of nights before but, thankfully, Donald 

proved gentler in real life. 

Arthur Lowe was an acting genius who discovered real nationwide 

fame late in his acting career. I still love the Dad’s Army series. 

When I knocked on his dressing room door, for our arranged 

interview, he shouted:” Come in – I’m washing my hair. I won’t be a 

couple of minutes.” That was 25 years ago. Now I know what he 

meant. 

Having morning coffee with Larry Grayson in the Cliff Tops Hotel in 

Shanklin was a unique experience. Poor Larry was virtually 

marooned in the hotel. Whenever he went out he was mobbed by 

his ageless fans. One day he almost had to be smuggled out of 

Regent Street. 

In the late 50s Arthur Worsley was the best ventriloquist in the 

world, with his dummy Charlie Brown, and he even appeared with 

Elvis Presley on the famed Ed Sullivan Show. Once, for a story in the 

now defunct IW Weekly Post, I was made up in drag. Arthur was 

completely fooled and was heard to say:” I’m sure I’ve met that 

woman somewhere before.” He'd been to tea at our house a few days 

earlier. Eventually he was told the truth – and loved it. 

I often think of so many great moments with stars that are no longer 

with us. These include Russ Conway, George Best, Dave Allen, Carl 

Wayne, Reginald Marsh, Michael Sheard, Leslie Crowther, Sir John 

Mills, Frankie Vaughan, Ted Rogers, Ian Bannen and Ray Moore. 

One lady who became an Island star was Military Road farmer Sylvia 

Jones. I talked her in to coming on to my radio show and the phone 

lines were jammed. The audience response was similar to when Cliff 

Richard appeared on the show. She even rang me to ask if I would 

mind if she went on to Radio 4. What a character! Every time I drive 

along the Military Road I think of Sylvia Jones and her wonderful 

Island accent, amazing stories and her old brown smock tied up with 

string. 


ISLAND LIFE SOCIETY 

Jan Cook Carole Dennett & Andrew Turner Clr Patrick Joyce 

A right 

Royal Ball... 

The Royal in Ventnor was the chosen venue for 

this years Conservative Ball. The evening was 

well attended, in fact tickets this year were 

hard to come by due to the popularity of the 

event. The Royal Hotel were perfect hosts, 

supplying over 100 meals (all 2 AA Rosette 

Standard). 

Julia Bickley & 

Clr Jonathan Fitzgerald - Bond 

Louis Brown & Kerry Siggins 

David & 

Clr Vanessa Churchman 


Pat Cook & Tony Papworth 

Alan Stovell, Clr Jilly Wood & Clr Susan Scoccia 

Andrea Woodley & 

Alan Stovell 

Jan Cook,Jennie Partridge , Alan Stovell, Susan Scoccia 

,Jonathan Fitzgerald-Bond , Joan Stovell 

Tony Rogers 

Esme Williamson 

Michael & 

Judy Jennings 

Raymond Back 

25

HOBBIES - SPORT - LEISURE 

The Island’s bid for 

the 2011 Island Games 

It seems that the Isle of Wight has a very 

good chance of hosting the 2011 Island 

Games. If successful the Island gets a 

much needed boost. 

The Isle of Wight is hoping to 

host the Island Games for 2011, 

one year prior to the Olympic 

games in 2012. The Isle of 

Wights only competitor is 

Bermuda. The three delegates 

(pictured above) Eric Legg, 

Jorgen Pettersson, and James 

Johnston spent three days on 

the Island looking at the Islands 

infrastructure, and were pleased 

to conclude that from what they 

have seen they would be more 

than happy to report back to the 

23 representatives at the 

26 

meeting in Rhodes in July that 

the Island is quite capable of 

hosting the games,which is good 

news for the Island. 

Another reason for the visit was 

to ensure that the Isle of Wight 

Council had the promised 

funding of £500,000 put aside 

for the games. Council leader 

Andy Sutton was there to 

reassure the three delegates 

that the funding has been 

allocated to the games should 

the Isle of Wight win the bid. 

We’ll keep you posted. 

Left: Tony Elgar, Target Shooting - Mark Harrison, Sailing - 

Barry Hall, Target Shooting. 

You’re never 

too old to 

master the 

waves 

Swimming is a great pastime, not only 

does it keep you fit, it’s a great way to 

meet new friends. 

The Heights at Sandown was the venue for this year’s Isle of Wight 

Open Masters Swimming Competition, which attracted over 200 

swimmers - 170 of them from the mainland. The event, which has 

been running on the Island since the late 1980s, brings in 

competitors aged from 19 right up to 90-plus. 

Jenny Ball, one of the club’s founder members commented: 

“The swimmers are incredibly competitive, no matter what age they 

are. In fact, we find that the older they are the worse they get! 

Recently we witnessed a 100 year old swimmer take part in the 

Masters in Montreal. The swimmers that take part must be pretty 

good, they are not your casual swimmer. Those from the older 

generation most likely would have been a competitive swimmer at 

some time in their life.” 

“We have one gentleman who is 81 years old and has a heart 

pacemaker. His doctor is not too happy about him swimming, but 

he still takes part every year. However, the majority of the older 

swimmers are incredibly fit.” 

“Also it’s nice for the younger generation of swimmers to be able to 

look up to and respect these veterans. There is a lot of respect 

there, because the younger swimmers realise what work and 

training needs to go into it.” 

“The Masters competition is very popular even with the under 19’s, 


as they really look 

forward to that day when 

they reach 19 and can 

take part themselves.” 

As Jenny points out, The 

Heights is a perfect 

location for the 

competition event. With 

its cafe right beside the 

pool, spectators and 

competitors can sit 

together and have a 

coffee, and still watch and 

take part in the 

competition. “It’s such a 

friendly atmosphere” says 

Jenny, “I have made so 

many friends over the 

years”. 


Back Row: Barnabas Timental, Michael Alchin, Paul Baldwin, 

Front Row: Jane Asher, Katrina Eldridge, Cecil Benfold 

Among the crowd was Paul Baldwin, manager of the IW swim team, 

which represents the Isle of Wight in the Island Games. He says 

there’s a very strong competitive spirit in the sport – and he should 

know. “Swimmers who qualify for the IW team have a very hard 

training regime - not only swimming in their local club, but also 

doing two hours training every day for the Island Games. The sport 

is very competitive – it has to be when you consider that the time 

difference between 1st and 6th place can be as little as 1.5 seconds. 

Another point to consider is that swimmers have to fund the trip 

themselves as there is no sponsorship available. So if Bermuda win 

the bid for 2011, it will be a costly exercise for our local teams to get 

there!” 

HOBBIES - SPORT - LEISURE 

Meanwhile, Jenny is preparing once again to do her epic swim across 

the Solent. The swim is carried out solo with only a support craft. 

“Obviously the swim is done at low tide, not only for the distance 

but to also take into account the strong currents that run through 

the Solent,” she said. 

“The route takes me from Appley, then I bear left towards Gillkicker 

and then bear right. If I didn’t do this, I’d end up in Eastbourne! The 

water temperature in the Solent is around 18 degrees at the 

beginning of September, which isn’t too bad.” 

If you would like to get involved in the Masters, call Jenny Ball on 

01983 525457. 

27

Food & Drink by 

Baked Egg and 

Smoked Haddock 

en cocotte 

by Angela Hewitt 

This is not a terribly healthy 

dish but it is a delicious treat 

for supper, breakfast or lunch – 

it was the most popular starter 

at my restaurant. 

Ingredients for 4 people: 

4 cocotte (ramekin) dishes 

4 small eggs 

4 oz natural smoked haddock - 

diced 

6 tablespoons of double cream 

4 oz mature cheddar – grated 

1 small onion finely chopped 

and softened until gold in a 

little butter or oil 

Black pepper – no salt 

1. Preheat your oven to its 

highest temperature 

2. Oil the cocotte dishes and 

place a small amount of 

softened onion in the bottom 

of each dish 

3. Arrange diced smoked 

haddock around the edge so 

that a well is created in the 

middle 

4. Break an egg into each well 

5. Sprinkle the grated cheddar 

over the top 

6. Pour 1 ½ tablespoons double 

cream over each dish 

7. Season with black pepper 

8. Place on a baking tray 

9. Here is the difficult bit. The 

dishes must be cooked so that 

the cheese and cream form a 

sauce and the egg yolk is still 

runny. 

Ovens can vary whether gas, 

electric, fan or aga (do not use 

a microwave oven) so your first 

effort may be hit or miss. I 

cook my dish for 13 mins in a 

very hot oven. Some ovens may 

require 12 mins other 15 mins. 

It’s the simple touches that make the difference, 

and from the minute we arrived at Lugleys we 

were greeted by friendly, enthusiastic waiting 

staff who were not just helpful, but 

demonstrated a real passion for the job. The 

restaurant was warm, friendly and comfortable, 

and decorated to an exceptionally high standard, 

using neutral colours. 

Tastefully furnished, the restaurant has tables 

that are cleverly spaced in such a way that it’s 

possible to have a private conversation without 

being overheard. 

Our first impression of the menu was that we 

were dealing with a chef who understands the 

business. 

There were six starters, six main courses, and 

two specials available. 

To whet our appetite, we ordered a side dish of 

Ramekin of Olives, which were presented in a 

glass with a punchy blend of Olive Oil, and 

Herbs. Also placed on the table were 3 slices of 

fresh Ciabatta bread, accompanied with a butter 

dish. 

For starters we opted for the Filo of Prawns, and 

Malaysian Tuna. The Filo of Prawns were 

delicious, and came with a fresh crisp Greek 

Salad mixed with a blend of Feta Cheese, which 

produced a lovely blend of the flavours that 

worked well. The Malaysian Tuna was served as 

a carpaccio in a spicy sauce laced with fresh 

peppers. Both starters were presented 

beautifully, tasted fantastic, and the portion sizes 

were just right. 

Because there were only six main dishes, we 

assumed that these were freshly cooked. 

We ordered Green Lipped Mussels, which were 

presented in a nage, with king prawns, spring 

onions and peppers in a creamy sauce. 

Our second choice was Lemon Sole, one of only 

two dishes available from the specials board. 

This dish was served with a lovely garnish 

consisting of fresh herbs, capers, and tomatoes, 

and a sweet potato. 

Matt Legge 

Good time had by all 

at Lugleys, Newport 

Lugleys is a must, for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly, 

experienced waiting staff, and imaginative menu 

Finally we ordered the English Sirloin Steak, 

which was inventively served with mild chilli 

beans and fried avocado. This was the most 

unusual combination our diner had ever had 

with steak, and he was surprised at how well the 

combination worked. The portion sizes for all the 

main courses were again sensible. 

The dessert menu offered a choice of six dishes, 

from which we selected the Hazelnut & Praline 

Parfait with Blueberries, which were simply 

delicious. The other diner opted for the 

Blackcurrant Sorbet. 

Lugley’s prove that it’s not hard to get it right. 

All it takes is a passion for food, some thought 

and imagination in combining ingredients, and 

happy and experienced waiting staff. These three 

basic elements will always make for a successful 

restaurant. 

Lugleys: 01983 822994 

33 Lugley Street, Newport 


IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 

A little gem 

in Bembridge 

As independent retailers continue to 

disappear off our high streets, it’s becoming 

more and more difficult to find an oldfashioned 

local deli, butcher or baker. 

Shanklin, for instance, has lost all its 

butchers, and the only remaining baker’s 

shop recently closed. At least we still have 

the local greengrocer. So isn’t Bembridge 

fortunate to have such a great little deli on 

its doorstep. 

Jackie Seymour and her husband Denny - a 

local crab and lobster fisherman operating 

out of Bembridge Harbour – had been 

looking for a small outlet to sell the fresh 

shellfish that he caught daily throughout 

the year. They were previously processing 

their catch and selling it to the owners of 

the deli, and when these people decided to 

retire, the Seymours jumped at the chance 

of buying the business, Food for Thought. 

“It made good sense for us to have a retail 

outlet for our crab and lobster business,” 

said Jackie. 

Since she and Denny took over 18 months 

ago, the business has steadily expanded, 

and the customer base is growing all the 

time. 

“I guess it’s the fact that we are a speciality 

seafood delicatessen, and there aren’t 

exactly many of them on the Island” she 

said. 

In addition to the seafood, the shop also 

sells Jackie’s wholesome, home-cooked 

specialities, from cakes and desserts, to 

freezer meals – all without additives, 

colourings, or preservatives. One of the 

most popular lines are the homemade 

sponge cakes, which fly out of the door the 

minute they are baked. 

Customers also love olives, which is why 

Food for Thought has installed a large olive 

bar. Jackie and Denny also scour the world 

for suppliers of exotic continental meats 

such as Parma Hams and many types of 

Salamis. 

Then there are the roast joints that Jackie 

cooks herself, which appeal to customers 

who live alone, because they can buy as 

much or as little as they need. 

“Because we are a small shop, we are always 

looking for items that you cannot find 

elsewhere like in the big supermarkets, that 

special ingredient I suppose. For example 


See what we have to say about Fultons 

and a well known Tea Room... 

we have just taken on 

some mouth-watering 

peppermint creams 

from a UK company 

that grow their own 

peppermint. One of 

the most unusual 

items is probably the 

pickled quails eggs, 

and we find that fresh whelks and lump 

fish caviar, also sell quite well”. 

Jackie will also make up gift hampers for 

any occasion. Customers can select the 

products they want included in the hamper 

and pay an additional charge of just £5.00 to 

make it up. A similar package can be 

prepared for picnics, using the customer’s 

own selection of produce. 

Another “speciality of the house” is the 

range of seafood platters (lobsters, crab, 

cockles, whelks etc), which cannot be 

fresher since Denny has only caught them 

that morning. Seafood platters start from 

£12.00 per head. 

To complement all this wonderful food, 

there is also a wide choice of fine wines and 

champagne from all over the world. 

“We try to get different wines from the 

usual ones you can find in an off-licence or 

a supermarket” says Jackie. “I take the time 

to research and discover new flavours and 

textures. I think it’s 

worth the effort, and 

I know my customers 

do”. 

Jackie and Denny are 

looking to expand in 

the next year so there 

may be a deli heading 

your way soon, 

(Shanklin, please!) 

We could probably fill 

several pages with 

what they have in the 

shop, but the best 

thing is for you to 

jump in the car and 

pay them a visit, 

you’ll find it’s well 

worth it. 

FOOD & DRINK 

Food for Thought is open Monday 

- Saturday 8.30am to 4.30pm 

4 High Street, Bembridge. 

Tel: 01983 873555 

29

FOOD & DRINK 

The 

Chef: 

Mark Cramp 

Age:32 

The Last Resort 

Shanklin 

IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 

Menu 

Starters 

Raunchy Rigatoni, Pasta tubes 

entwined with bacon, 

mushrooms, served in a lively 

sauce of tomatoes and garlic 

with a kick of Red Chillies 

topped with shaved parmesan 

£6.50 

Warm Salad of vine Tomatoes, 

Back bacon and Mozzarella, 

entwined on a wholegrain 

mustard dressing sat on a crisp 

green salad. 

£5.50 

Main Courses 

Sautéd Chicken Breast with 

Mussels, Tarragon and 

Chardonnay 

£9.95 

8 oz Rib-Eye Steak, nestled on 

caramelised red onion, Sautéd 

field mushrooms and Dijon 

sauce. 

£13.95 

Desserts 

Amaretto & Orange Brulée 

£3.75 

Baked Chocolate Tart and soft 

seasonal berries. 

£3.95 

The Last Resort 

High Street, Shanklin 

Tel: 01983 875559 

We sell as many Pasties in the 

Summer as we do in the Winter... 

The Last Resort, 

saved the day! 

Change is in the air again at The 

Last Resort in Shanklin. Previously 

owned by Steve Wyatt, of French 

Franks, and more recently by Clive 

White, the restaurant is in yet 

another new pair of hands. So 

what’s on the menu? We went to 

find out… 

The Last Resort in Shanklin turned out literally 

to be our “last resort” for this issue’s review, 

since we had already visited two other 

restaurants that were so disappointing we’re not 

even going to mention them! 

What we found at The Last Resort was a bright, 

contemporary interior, with attentive waiting 

staff, and a tempting, wide-choice menu with 

around 12 starters, 24 main courses, a stone 

baked pizza section, and a selection of 13 sweets. 

The menu has a distinct Mediterranean 

influence, and the portion sizes are sensible. 

We’d heard that chef Mark Cramp had previously 

built a good reputation at nearby Foxhills in 

Shanklin, where he was awarded a Rosette for 

his culinary skills - so we had an idea that we 

might be in for a treat. 

The restaurant had a great atmosphere with a 

real buzz – which was another indicator of a 

good evening ahead. 

The tables are well spaced, but the favourite 

window tables are always the first ones to be 

booked, so take note. We found the service 

efficient and friendly, and slightly unusual in 

that we had a number of different waiting staff 

serving us, which simply added to the lively 

atmosphere. The choice of music couldn’t have 

been better, Marvin Gaye, Mick Hucknell, Luther 

Vandross etc. 

So what about the food? We couldn’t fault it in 

any way at all. The presentation and flavours 

were spot on. 

The starters were amazing, however at the end of 

the day the Pasta tubes with bacon and 

mushrooms stole the show. 

The unusual dish of the evening was the Sautéd 

Chicken Breast with Mussels, although unusual 

it tasted out of this world. The Rib-Eye steak was 

cooked to perfection, medium to rare and the 

Dijon sauce was the perfect companion, one that 

I had not experienced previously with steak. The 

desserts were all homemade, simply delicious, I 

believe that freshly made desserts really do taste 

so much better. 

On this particular Friday evening the restaurant 

was packed, and yet the food still arrived on 

time, with well-judged periods of time between 

courses. We certainly didn’t get the feeling of 

being rushed – in fact we were given the 

impression that the table was ours for the 

evening. 

Throughout the whole evening it was clear to see 

that a great deal of effort was being made to 

ensure that customers had an enjoyable 

experience – and it certainly worked for us. 

After our couple of false starts, we’re glad to 

report that at The Last Resort, we found another 

Island restaurant that is well-run, and well worth 

a return visit. 

The Last Resort is open for Breakfast, Lunch and 

Dinner. Also during the day you can pop in for a 

coffee and slice of cake. 

To make a reservation please call 875559. 


Attention to 

detail, says 

Ian! 

“Ian Whitehead has the midas 

touch when it comes to 

restaurants, first with Jo DaFlos, 

and most recently with Fultons 

of Bembridge, and now his 

latest project is under way, a 

steak house located at the well 

known site Osborne's, in Ryde’s 

Union Street.” 

Where were you born and raised? 

Edinburgh, Scotland. 

When did you move to the Island and 

why? 

Moved over here in 1990 due to job 

relocation, I was area manager for The 

Crown Hotel in Ryde. 

When did you open your first restaurant 

on the Island? 

Joe Daflos, Union St, Ryde in 2000. 

Why did you sell Joe Daflos? 

I wanted to move on, my original plans were 

to move to the states., however I thought 

there was still scope on the Island for new 

and interesting restaurants. I changed 

peoples perception with Joe Daflos, good 

food, good prices, and good service. 

Where do you get your inspirations from? 

Research, and lots of it. I travel around the 

world looking at other restaurants, I also 

spend hours reading magazines, and looking 

on the Internet. 

Why Bembridge as a location for Fultons? 

Bembridge is one of the best locations for 

fresh fish, it comes straight off the boats 

into my restaurant. Also I live in Ryde. 

What theme is your latest restaurant in 

Ryde going to take? 

An American New York Loft sort of theme. 

Neutral colours, no set pattern. I am also 

keeping the originality of the building, I 

think that this is important. Unusual food, 

ie: sloppy Sandwiches such as Hot Roasted 

Pork with Bramley Apple Sauce, Scottish 

Beef Steaks with our own unique steak 

sauce. 


Who creates the menus, do you 

influence the menu? 

All of us including the chef, restaurant 

manager even the waiters and waitresses. 

How many restaurants do you aim to 

open on the Island? 

Two em...(slight pause and grin) well maybe 

five, I have already bought another site on 

the Island, although I am not sure of the 

theme yet, you’ll have to wait and see. 

Do you think that there is a lack of 

quality restaurants on the Island? 

No! It’s getting better, there are now more 

choices and better quality than ever before. 

If you could open a restaurant anywhere 

in the world, where would it be? 

Los Angeles, USA, I have even seen the 

location I want, it’s the Stella McCartney 

building, however I will never be able 

to afford this. 

Why do you think the failure rate of new 

restaurants is so high? 

Owners do not pay enough “attention 

to detail”, also they do not listen to 

customers and finally they are frightened to 

try new dishes. 

What’s the best restaurant you have ever 

eaten in, and your favourite restaurant on 

the Island? 

Langhams in London, and Joe Daflos 

in Ryde even though I do not own it 

any more. 

Name three basic elements for a 

successful restaurant? 

Staff, Price and Food, all three have to be 

there. 

Who would you most like to have dinner 

with? 

Thomas Keller, voted two years in a row 

“The best restaurant in the world”. If I 

FOOD & DRINK 

could ask one question it would be, “whats 

the most you have ever paid for a bottle of 

wine?” 

What would be your best ever 3 course 

meal? 

Pea and Ham Soup, Scottish Sirloin Steak, 

and Sherry Trifle. 

If you were invisible for the day, where 

would you go and what would you do? 

I would love to spend a day in an American 

cheese cake factory and see how they make 

them. 

Where’s your favourite location on the 

Island? 

Ryde, I think that Ryde is very under-stated. 

What would you change or banish from 

the Isle of Wight? 

The Isle of Wight County Council. Let more 

business people run the Island. 

What's the best thing about the Isle of 

Wight? 

The people, they are very diverse. 

And the worst ? 

The Local Planning Department. 

What’s the most underrated thing about 

the Island? 

Tourism and quality. I don’t even know who 

is in charge of tourism? 

What shop could you not live without 

on the Island? 

Greenhams the newsagents, they have the 

best selection of magazines. I love my 

magazines. 

Where’s your dream holiday destination, 

and why? 

New York, They do things there that are not 

done anywhere else in the world. 

What do you do in your spare time, have 

you got a hobby? 

Research, Research, Research, also I have 

the biggest collection of cookery books you 

can imagine. I also like spending time with 

my family. 

Would you pack in work if you won 57 

million on the Euro lottery? 

No, all this would do is give me more 

investment to have restaurants in the US 

and the UK, I would live six months in the 

USA and six months on the Isle of Wight. 

What’s after Osbornes? 

Keep reading this magazine to find out, 

you’ll be surprised. 

31

FARMING - Sponsored by NFU Mutual 

Farming Contributor 

Well 

worth the 

trip to 

Scotland 

Congratulations must go to Michael Poland and his team at 

Wight Conservation for their success at Oban’s Highland Cattle 

Society show and sale in February. Iasgair of Mottistone, a 

Highland bull bred from Mr Poland’s Island based fold 

(Highland cattle are known as a fold, rather than a herd), 

travelled to Scotland to take on some of the best in his breed. 

The journey proved worthwhile when Iasgair took top honours 

in the senior bull championship, and then going on to achieve 

6,000 guineas in the sale ring the next day. 

To many people, Highland cattle on the Isle of Wight may seem 

like fish out of water, but the use of these animals for 

conservation is proving a great success. If you’d like to find 

out more about the use of these cattle, visit the Wight 

Conservation website at www.wightconservation.co.uk 

On your bikes! 

When the President of the 

Islands Young Farmers Club 

suggested that members 

could take on the challenge 

of a bike ride along the 

Tennyson Trail, there were a 

few worried looking faces 

amongst members. 

A couple of weeks later the 

route was planned, sponsorship 

forms were filled in and the 

rust had been knocked off the 

bikes. 

Twelve members turned out to 

take on the route from the 

Freshwater golf course to the 

NFU office in Carisbrooke. 

After weeks of dry weather, the 

first rain fall just happened to 

arrive on the morning of the 

12th February, the chosen date 

for the bike ride! 

Despite a puncture, a broken 

chain, lost brake pads, rubbed 

heals and a few aches and 

pains, all twelve completed, 

raising funds for the Royal 

Agricultural Benevolent 

Institution. 

Anyone interested in joining the 

Islands Young Farmers Club 

should contact the secretary on 

07866312576. 

10 THINGS YOU OUGHT TO KNOW ABOUT 

Avian Influenza 

Avian influenza is a 

disease of birds caused by 

influenza viruses closely 

related to human 

influenza viruses. 

Transmission to humans 

in close contact with 

poultry or other birds 

occurs rarely and only 

with some strains of avian 

influenza. 

The potential for 

transformation of avian 

influenza into a form that 

both causes severe 

disease in humans and 

spreads easily from person to 

person is a great concern for 

world health. 

Humans are usually 

infected through close 

contact with live infected 

birds. Birds shed 

influenza virus in their 

faeces so contact with faeces 

(for example by visiting 

enclosures or markets where 

birds have been recently 

kept) is also a possible 

transmission route. 

There have been a limited 

number of well 

documented cases in 

which there is evidence 

to suggest human-to-human 

transmission but to date 

there is no evidence that the 

highly pathogenic avian 

influenza virus has adapted 

to spread easily in humans. 

Avian influenza is not 

transmitted through 

cooked food and to date; 

no evidence indicates that 

anyone has become infected 

following the consumption of 

properly cooked poultry or 

poultry products. 

Your usual annual flu 

vaccination will not 

provide any protection 

against avian flu. A new 

vaccine would need to be 

produced for this new strain of 

flu. 

In England in 1996 there 

was a single case of a 

female farmer who 

acquired H7 influenza 

(typically avian) and suffered 

conjunctivitis after cleaning out 

a poultry house. There have 

been no human cases imported 

into England 

Outbreaks of avian 

influenza, especially the 

highly pathogenic form, 

can be devastating for the 

poultry industry and for 

farmers. For example, an 

outbreak of highly pathogenic 

avian influenza in the USA in 

1983–84, largely confined to the 

state of Pennsylvania, resulted 

in the destruction of more than 

17 million birds 

It is possible that 

highly pathogenic 

avian influenza could 

be introduced into the 

UK by either migration of wild 

birds, importation of chickens 

for consumption (now stopped) 

or illegal importation of live 

birds. 


1 

2 

3 

4 

5 

6 

7 

Matt Legge 

8 

9 

10

IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 

Farmers 

fight back 

Many farmers see 

farming as a vocation 

but their challenge is 

that costs so often 

exceed sales. The 

answer is to increase 

margins and if possible sales. The Island Food and Craft 

Association, IFCA, is an organisation that is setting out to help 

Island farmers do that. It is also focused on doing the same 

thing for craft producers hotels, restaurants, B & Bs and farm 

shops because it sees all these groups as having the same 

objectives and being able to help each other achieve their 

mutual goals. 

IFCA’s first objective is to bring together the creators (i.e. 

farmers and food processors) and promoters (hotels, 

restaurants, farm shops, delis etc) so they can jointly sell 

quality local products to the general public. They want to 

create an open market so promoters know what is available 

and from where while creators know who is most interested in 

buying their product – Promoter members of IFCA. 

IFCA is focusing on four key methods of achieving these 

objectives: creating a market, special projects, creating a micro 

distribution system and branding. 

IFCA intends to create a market place through its new 

interactive website to be launched at the end of April. The 

information on this website will automatically be launched on 

two mainland websites dedicated to supporting the local food 

movement and discussions are underway to add a further 

three more websites later in the year. The importance of this 

access is that, according to a recent survey, 64% of the 

population now regularly uses the Internet to source their 

requirements. 

The first special project will be the “Island Breakfast” The 

concept is borrowed from the New Forest that launched a 

similar project last year. The idea is to create a link between 

the prime producer and the breakfast supplier. The promoter 

can find all the main ingredients and who supplies them on a 

website he can order them then and there and have them 

delivered direct. The “Island Breakfast” is then promoted by 

IW Tourism and IFCA as well as the users to maximise 

publicity for all. 

Using modern technology, IFCA is trying to recreate the 

systems that existed 50 years ago that allowed farmers to sell 

locally. The plan is to establish micro distribution systems ecommerce 

sites, couriers and cold chain distributors to help 

the farmer take a larger share of the pound that a consumer 

spends on the products he or she produces. However, IFCA is 

not about any particular project, it is about finding solutions, 

making those solutions available to its members so they can 

make a profit. 


Making bacon, we visit 

Moor Farm, Godshill 

Sponsored by NFU Mutual - FARMING 

Lambs spring 

into the new 

season 

The sight of a new generation 

of woolly lambs gambolling in 

the fields is one of the surest 

signs that spring is really on 

its way. Did you realise, 

though, that the Island’s 

sheep farmers are responsible 

for bringing over 15,000 lambs 

into the world each year? 

March and April is the time of year for lambing in most flocks, 

although this is not the hard and fast rule for all. The breeding 

season is dictated by biology, with only breeds such as the 

Dorset Horn being able to lamb as early as December. In fact, 

the Dorset is one of the very few breeds that can reproduce 

twice in a year. 

Although modern British farming practices do not require a 

shepherd to watch the flock day and night, at lambing time the 

hours are not far short of this. It’s very easy to identify a 

shepherd at this time of year. Pop into a country pub and he’s 

not there; in fact, he’s probably not been to the pub, barber’s, or 

even seen much of his own home for the entire duration of the 

lambing season. 

One experienced shepherd explained: “Lambing season is sleep 

deprivation time. I actually went shopping in SCATS and forgot 

what I had gone in for. I was half asleep and ended up buying 

some boxer shorts, when I think I actually needed wormer!” 

The shepherd is undoubtedly a dedicated character. He’s been 

the matchmaker; he’s introduced the boys to the girls and then 

looked after his ewes through the 147 days of their pregnancy. 

As with any livestock, the husbandry of the sheep flock is a 

very demanding responsibility. In fact, the successful shepherd 

needs to have the multiple skills of an agronomist, scientist, 

nutritionist, veterinarian, logistics expert, mathematician 

and genealogist. 

He must be able to plan the grazing patterns and ensure there is 

sufficient grass to maintain a healthy flock, he must then plan 

the vaccination and worm control programmes, supplementary 

feeding plans, management plans and genetic matchmaking – 

and all this whilst dealing with the day to day chores and 

challenges thrown up by the sheep themselves. 

So, next time you’re taking a walk in the country, take a 

moment to look over the hedge and spend some time watching 

the antics of these happy newborns, and remember the work of 

the shepherd in ensuring their safe arrival and 

continued wellbeing. 

33

FARMING - Sponsored by NFU Mutual 

IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 

Being a landowner brings many 

responsibilities. One of these is for the 

management of the countryside and 

wildlife that it supports. There are 

many legislations and laws governing 

what you can and cannot do on your 

own land and these seem to be 

increasing weekly with new 

Government Policies that appear to 

discourage farmers from farming their 

own land! 

In my opinion we have a rich and 

diverse countryside because of the way 

it has been managed by farmers and 

landowners. For many it is a labour of 

love and quality of life as opposed to 

rich rewards. 

ELS and HLS are two of the latest 

schemes from DEFRA encouraging 

farmers to be more environmentally 

friendly towards wildlife. These will 

have many benefits not only for birds, 

wildlife and insects but will also benefit 

walkers, horse riders and other 

countryside users with their increased 

activity. 

Some of the changes that you will see 

include; more over wintering of stubble 

that provides important food source for 

seed-eating birds, habitats for brown 

hares and breeding sites for ground 

nesting birds such as lapwing and 

curlew: Buffer strips and field margins, 

that will protect habitats from 

fertilisers and pesticides: Beetle banks 

to create new habitats for insects, 

grasses and wildlife corridors. ‘Wild 

bird seed mixtures’ and ‘Pollen and 

nectar flowers mixtures’ will increase 

food for farmland birds and benefit 

insects such as butterflies and bees. 

Farming is changing and with it the 

landscape of our Island. Whether this 

is the best for our wildlife, time will 

tell. I only know that the countryside 

takes a lot of looking after, it doesn’t 

just happen naturally. 

We take a look at 

Dunsbury Farm, Brook. 

Farming the countryside 

By Tony Ridd 

Above: A good 

example of a Field 

Margin 

Left: A lone field 

mouse 

Right: Curlew, quite 

rare, found in the 

West Wight. 

Bottom Left: Brown 

Hare. 

Bottom Right: Field 

Pansies. 


Better life for the chicken 

With the explosion in food quality 

awareness across the UK, we take a look 

at what “locally produced food” really 

means. Starting in this issue, we talk to 

local poultry producers Sue & Paul 

Brownrigg from Godshill about their 

“locally produced” poultry. 

Farming poultry, like any other 

type of farming, starts with a big 

decision: whether to be a small 

producer (raising around 10,000 

chickens a year), or a mass market 

supplier (100,000 chickens a year) 

which involves big-scale 

investment, high staff levels and 

huge premises. 

Sue & Paul opted for being small 

producers. Currently on their farm 

in Sheepwash Lane, they stay 

within the 10,000 a year quota. 

Says Sue: “It makes it a 

manageable-sized business, one in 

which we can ensure the quality, 

and well-being of our chickens” 

The couple buy in their chicks at 

just a day old from the mainland. 

As Sue explains: “Incubating and 

hatching the eggs on the Island is 

an extreme science, and if you 

have not got the perfect conditions 

it becomes an almost impossible 

task. The fall- out rate becomes 

extremely high, so 

it makes better 

business sense to 

buy the chicks in”. 

The chicks are then 

introduced into the 

farm, where in the 

first 4 weeks of 

their lives they are 

kept in heated 

sheds, until they are ready to venture 

outside. 

Once outside, they are completely free to 

roam during the day, hence the term freerange. 

The chickens have a normal 

healthy existence for their lifetime, 


- and the consumer 

unlike battery hens which are kept in 

extremely compact conditions, and never 

see daylight throughout the whole of 

their existence. 

Most supermarket chickens are processed 

at the age of 6 weeks, whereas Sue’s 

chickens are processed at 

around 10 weeks. So they 

have not only a better 

quality of life, they have a longer one. 

Apart from selling their chickens to 

members of public, the Brownriggs also 

supply local catering businesses. 

Another good outlet for them is the 

farmers market in Newport Square 

Sponsored by NFU Mutual - FARMING 

every Friday. 

Sue commented: “Customers love coming 

to the market, as they are able to talk to 

the farmers who actually produce the 

food, and ask the farmers how the food 

was raised or grown. Customers know 

what they are buying, and they are 

supporting local farmers. 

“This is important, as 40 years 

ago there were over 240 

producing farms on the Island - 

now there are no more than 24.” 

If you would like to try one of 

Sue’s tasty chickens they do 

offer a free Island-wide delivery 

service, or alternatively, pop 

down to the farmers’ market on 

a Friday. 

Tel: 01983 840978 

35

Countryside 

Your Countryside Matters 

In this issue Tony Ridd of Landscape 

Therapy looks at the tradition and 

importance that hedgerows in our landscape 

still have: 

Saturday 25th February saw the ‘15th 

Annual Hedgelaying Competition’ take place 

at Blackwater Hollow. Twenty four 

competitors, a record for the competition 

and over 350 spectators enjoyed a sunny but 

bitterly cold day. 

Hedgerows are an important part of our 

landscape, used to divide fields and define 

boundaries. Although hedges are believed 

to date back over 1200 years ago to our 

Saxon ancestors, hedge planting only really 

took off in the 15th and 16th Century. The 

craft of hedgelaying was not commonly 

practised, until the 18th century. 

Hedgelaying is important to conserve a 

healthy and ‘full’ hedge. Traditionally 

carried out to maintain a boundary and 

retain livestock that included, sheep, pigs, 

cattle and horses, it is now practised for the 

conservation of wildlife habitats, 

rejuvenating derelict hedges and to improve 

the aesthetics of our landscape. 

To lay a hedge well, takes experience and 

regular practice. You start off by cleaning 

out the hedge, removing brambles and 

ground vegetation. Select the 

pleachers (the name given to the 

stem that are cut and laid), partly cut 

the pleacher using a billhook, axe or 

saw until the pleacher can be bent 

over retaining a hinge of bark, sap 

wood and cambium that will allow 

the pleacher to regrow. 

Stakes are then knocked into the 

ground at regular intervals and 

heathers (whippy lengths of hazel) 

are woven around the top 

strengthening the hedge and holding 

down the pleachers. 

Laying a hedge not only improves the 

area around that hedge, it also 

encourages good woodland 

management as a source of 

hedgelaying material. 

The Hedgelaying Competition 

consists of three categories, open, 

novice and team. It is jointly organised by 

myself and Matthew Chatfield, Senior 

Countryside Officer for the Isle of Wight 

Council. It is supported by Wight Wildlife 

who give an award to ‘The Landowner in 

recognition to their valuable contribution to 

hedgerow conservation on the Island’,the 

AONB Partnership and The Isle of Wight 

College Countryside Section. 

Thankfully because of our Island 

countryside there is a growing interest in 

conserving our hedgerows and this is 

reflected in the competition, with high 

standards being achieved each year and the 

demand for hedges to be laid increasing. 

Look out for next years competition that 

will be held on the last Saturday in 

February. 

The W Hurst and Son Challenge Cup for 

open competition – 1 Dick Pulleine, 2 

James Cook, 3 Tom Murphy; The Mary 

Sitch Challenge Cup for Novices – 1 Oz 

Hoskyns, 2 Alex Holmes 3, Rob Richards; 

The Landscape Therapy Team Trophy – 1 

The Artists (Paul Sivell, Tim Johnson and 

Gavin Hodgson), 2 Never Mind the 

Billhooks (Rob Jones, Simon Sherry and 

Grace Booth) 3 Great Curtailers (Matt 

Arum, Chris Gibson and Darren Sharpe); 

The Wight Wildlife Conservation Award – 

Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Seely of Dunsbury 

Farm, Brook. 

Contributor Tony Ridd 

Results: Top: Rob 

Richards, 2nd 

in the Novice 

Section. 

Left: Matthew 

Chatfield 

presenting 3rd 

place to Tom 

Murphy. 

Below: Never 

Mind the 

Billhooks and 

Judge John 

Kingswell. 


IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 


Sponsored by Landscape Therapy - COUNTRYSIDE 

Planting programme 

underway... 

Winter is the busiest time when carrying 

out woodland work; coppicing hazel, 

felling large standard trees and planting 

trees and shrubs to create new woods and 

habitats. 

Landscape Therapy are carrying out all of 

these operations in Briddlesford Copse. A 

230 acre native woodland, owned by the 

‘People’s Trust for Endangered Species’. It 

includes ancient woodland, meadows and 

miles of hedgerows that help create a 

wonderful habitat for wildlife. It is one of 

the most important sites for woodland 

mammals in the UK; dormice, red squirrels 

and rare woodland bats all living and 

breeding here. 

As part of their studies, students from the 

Isle of Wight College spent the day 

working with Landscape Therapy learning 

how important woodland management 

was to preserving the habitats that 

woodlands have to offer. 

They planted trees and shrubs, grown 

The Conservation Skills Team 

and full time students from the 

IW College. 

Badgers, love them or 

hate them? 

from seeds and nuts collected from the 

copse. Protected them with guards and 

then mulched with woodchip that they 

produced from the coppiced hazel and 

felling of larger trees. This will aid growth 

through suppressing weeds and retaining 

moisture in the spring and summer. 

The process of coppicing and felling of 

trees can sometimes upset people if they 

do not know or understand what is 

happening. This is a way of managing 

woodland that has been carried out in our 

country for over 5000 years, resulting in 

the massive biodiversity that our woods 

have to offer. After coppicing takes place 

the woodland floor will come alive with 

flowers that may have been lying dormant 

for many years. 

Research is constantly being carried out in 

Briddlesford Copse so access is generally 

limited to public footpaths. However 

greater access can be enjoyed through 

Hurst Copse found near Wootton and still 

part of the Peoples Trust estate. 

Paul Coleman (technician) overseeing timber 

extraction by the students. 

Simon Cribb using woodchip to mulch a 

newly planted tree. 

Stevie Boudewijin chipping brash 

in the copse. 

‘Assistant Lectricuar’ John 

Hobart showing Anthony Biggs 

one of the hazel plants before 

planting. 

37

Equestrian 

Boring old gumboots get a new 

lease of life with this range of 

snazzy wellies, new in at 

Froghill Tack. 

The fun wellies come in a 

range of great designs suitable 

for both adults and kids. There 

are even co-ordinating umbrellas and rain 

macs - and if you want to go the whole hog, 

then you can even buy the matching Garden 

Kloggies. 

The funky rain gear 

comes in over 10 

designs, ranging from girly Rose and Pansy, 

to animal-friendly Horse, Digger and Paws. 

So if you want to look cool whilst keeping 

dry in the great outdoors, make your way 

down to Froghill at Sandford, and pick your 

style. 

Wellies that 

make a real 

splash! 

Let there be 

light 

Estimates suggest there are a 

staggering 10,600 accidents 

involving horses on the road 

each year – that’s almost 30 

per day! What’s more, over 

100 horses are killed on UK 

roads every year. 

Shocking statistics like these 

show why more and more riders 

are using reflective clothing, 

both for themselves and their 

horses. 

Wearing reflective clothing is a 

step in the right direction, but 

since it only works when lit by 

approaching headlights or some 

other light source, it’s not 

perfect - and in some cases, can 

be too little, too late. 

That’s why PolyBrite have 

devised a neat solution to the 

growing problem. The company 

has incorporated a patented 

advanced Polymer/LED lighting 

technology into its garments, 

which means that riders do not 

have to rely on outside light 

sources. The innovative and 

durable lighting system operates 

on two ordinary AA batteries or 

a 2032 Lithium battery. 

The light – which can be set on 

constant or flashing - is visible 

from up to 3000 metres at 

night, in low light, and no-light 

situations, and the two AA 

batteries will last up to 450hrs 

in flashing mode. The full range 

includes horse bibs, exercise 

sheets, vests and arm and leg 

bands, and all can be washed as 

normal without having to 

remove the lighting strips. 

Call into Froghill at Sandford for 

more details or telephone 

01983 840205. 

Sponsored by Brickfields and Froghill 


IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 

Never too 

late to 

saddle 

up 

Horse riding lessons used to be regarded as a 

weekend activity that was strictly for the kids – but 

nowadays, more and more adults are taking up the 

pastime. 

It’s easy to see why. Riding is a relaxing sport that 

allows participants to get out into the fresh air, see 

more of the countryside, whilst benefitting from 

some good healthy exercise into the bargain. 

Good examples of these new adult riders are 

husband and wife John and Clare Baiche-Duke. Clare 

rode for 10 years as an adolescent, but like many 

others who ride at that age, she found that other 

commitments in her life took over as she got older, 

and the riding took a back seat. 

Clare said: “It’s funny, but riding stays in your 

blood, you always come back to it at some stage of 

your life”. This is precisely what happened recently 

when she and husband John decided to get back in 

the saddle. 

Clare, in her late 30s, managed to convince her 

husband (who had never ridden a horse in his life) 

to take lessons at Brickfields so they could go out 

riding together. John, 43, admits he was slightly 

apprehensive at first: 

John said “Initially I had some aches and pains in muscles that I 

have never used, and the hardest part for me was learning the 

rising trot. However, my instructor was very patient and I am so 

glad now that my wife talked me into riding. I can see exactly what 

she meant – it’s very relaxing and enjoyable”. 

John went for a one-hour lesson every week for 7 months, and he 

now has his own horse and rides out regularly with Clare. “It’s 

lovely, we just saddle up and off we go,” he says. “There is so 

much countryside to explore, and you find that the Island looks 

completely different from the vantage point of a saddle”. 

Mary from Brickfields commented: “Clare and John are a real 

success story. You can see they really enjoy the whole experience, 

from the riding to looking after their horses”. 

She adds: “We can teach people of any age to ride. We live on a 


A special report on the 

2006 IW Scurry... 

Sponsored by Brickfields and Froghill - EQUESTRIAN 

beautiful Island, and in my opinion, there’s no better way to 

explore it than to go out on a horse”. 

Contrary to popular myth, horse riding need not be an expensive 

pastime. Lessons cost from £15 per half hour and once a rider is 

confident in the saddle they have two options: either paying to go 

out on a weekly hack (approx £25 for an hour) or investing in their 

own horse. 

Buying a horse needs to be considered very carefully as the animal 

will need attention on a daily basis - come rain or shine. 

Expect to pay around £3,000 for a steady reliable horse and from 

£500/£800 for tack. 

For futher details call Brickfields on 01983 566801. 

39

EQUESTRIAN - Sponsored by Brickfields and Froghill 

“Even horses hate 

going to the dentist” 

Emma Orchard-Ohlson has been bitten, 

kicked and knocked unconscious during 

her career as an equine dental 

technician – but amazingly, this has 

done nothing to put her off her unusual 

job. In fact, according to Emma: “It’s 

the best job in the world”. We caught 

up with this fearless woman to get the 

low-down… straight from the 

horse’s mouth. 

Were you always interested in horses? 

I was practically born in the saddle, as my 

mum was into dressage and my dad was a 

show hunter breeder. 

Have you always lived on the Island? 

I was actually born in Reigate, but have been 

on the Island since I was five years old. I 

spent a year away show jumping in Australia. 

Where did you train to become an equine 

dentist? 

I did two years HND at West Oxfordshire 

College followed by one and a half years at 

Shires Equine Dental College 

in Cambridge, under the 

instruction of Gary Draper. 

What is your best memory 

of training? 

Getting a star (top grade) for 

my final practical exam! Also 

only 3 of us were asked back 

to teach at college, this was a 

huge honour. 

And your worst? 

Having a horse roll over on 

me! Also, having a horse rear 

up whilst my hand was 

trapped in the GAG, which 

was very painful. 

What made you choose 

horse dentistry? 

I originally trained as a riding 

instructor and was not 

enjoying it, so friend’s of 

mine sent an application on 

my behalf to the college – 

without me even knowing 

about it - and I was accepted! 

What hours do you work? 

Seven days a week, and I am 

on call 24/7. There have 

been times when I have been 

called out at 3.30am on a 

Sunday morning, which is 

not fun! 

Do you travel to the mainland to work? 

Yes, in fact I travel all over the world. I have 

been to Greece, France, Wales and Scotland, I 

also teach courses on the mainland, as well 

as abroad. 

Do you have to sedate horses in your 

work? 

Yes sometimes I do, however this is done 

under the supervision of a fully qualified vet 

just in case there are any unforeseen 

problems. 

Do horses have the same dental problems 

as humans? 

Yes, but the most common problem is sharp 

points caused by the horse grinding on hay. 

Since qualifying what is your worst 

experience? 

Being knocked unconscious when a horse 

reared up and struck out with a front leg. 

Can horses have crowns and false teeth? 

Yes, they can have crowns - although a single 

crown can cost up to £1,500, so in most cases 

it is not advisable. 

How badly have you been bitten? 

Fairly severely – bad enough to draw blood 

anyway. 

How often do horses need to have checkups? 

Like humans, it’s advisable to have them 

checked every six months. 

Do you think owners care enough about 

their horses’ teeth, and have them checked 

regularly enough? 

I don’t think people realise how often they 

should be attended to. I think an awareness 

campaign is needed within the equestrian 

community. Bad or painful teeth in a horse 

can cause all sorts of problems. 

Do horses lose teeth with age? 

Yes they do. 

Why should an owner choose to use 

yourself rather than their own vet? 

Because I am a specialist in my field and have 

spent over two years training in horse 

dentistry, whereas a vet will spend perhaps 

only a week. 

Now you’re qualified, do you still enjoy the 

job? 

I love my work - it’s the best job in the world. 

When you’re not working, how do you 

spend your leisure time? 

I love surfing - and riding my own horses. 

Do you see horse dentistry changing? 

I think it will become more popular, and the 

technology is evolving rapidly all the time. 

There will be more options open for us in the 

future. 


“Teaching Madonna was 

an event to remember!” 

We caught up with Dorset-based international eventer William Fox-Pitt on a 

visit to the Island’s Lake Farm, and discovered more about the top-class 

horseman - including the part he played in teaching pop icon Madonna. 

He wasn’t exactly born in the saddle, but 37 

year-old William Fox-Pitt could be said to 

have horsemanship in his genes. His mother 

rode for the British eventing team and his 

father competed at Badminton and Burghley, 

so it was hardly surprising that the young 

William would take to the saddle at the age 

of two. 

He actually started eventing at 15, but it was 

not until he graduated from London 

University in 1993 that it became his career. 

Now dubbed the Pony Club pin-up, he has a 

list of trophies and honours to his name, 

including European Championship gold 

medals in 2001 and 2003 and a string of first 

and second placings at Burghley, Badminton 

and Gatcombe. 

Last year was an excellent one for the team - 

William being placed second in the FEI World 

Rankings, and for the fifth year running, 

being named as the leading UK rider. 

As well as eventing full time, William is also 

Board Director of the Event Riders 

Association, and Vice President of the Dorset 

County RDA. 

When did you first get on a horse? 

I don’t really remember, as I was so young. I 

think my parents had me on a pony probably 

when I was two. My passion took a long time 

to develop. 

Did you learn to ride bareback? 

Oh yes! Pony racing with just head collars on 

etc. Although we always wore a riding hat. 

Do you still ride bareback? 

No - certainly not. It was one thing sitting on 

a fat 12.2 pony when you’re 8 years old 

bareback, its quite another thing sitting on a 

bony 17.2 thoroughbred! 

What has been your experience of teaching 

Madonna? 

It’s been quite funny. She comes across as a 

real enthusiast. She’s passionate about 

horses, so it’s been fun teaching that type of 

person. Her PA tracked me down, as I am 

quite local, and she wanted someone to give 

her a few pointers. Madonna is very keen on 

her riding. She has fully recovered from her 

fall in the summer and is back in the saddle. 

She has a very nice horse that is well suited 


to her, as she has only been 

riding since February last year. 

How do you find time for 

teaching? 

It has to fit in with my 

schedule, but my priority is 

always competing. At the 

same time I enjoy teaching 

and it’s very important to find 

time for it, as you only learn 

how to teach well by actually 

doing it! 


How does this all fit in with 

your family life? 

My family life is fairly hectic, 

but I would not have it any 

other way. I think I am very 

lucky to be busy. My wife has 

a busy working life, so our 

little boy has to fit in. I hope that when he is 

older he’ll work as hard, too. When we are all 

together, it’s great to be able to enjoy the 

time we have with him. 

Would you want your son to follow in your 

footsteps? 

No … I hope he does something that makes a 

bit more money! Perhaps I’ll buy him a golf 

club! The privilege of being involved in any 

sport is having that passion, and if my son’s 

passion is horses then we will certainly be 

behind him. However if it turns out that 

horses are not his thing, then we will 

definitely not push him. Horses are an allconsuming 

24/7 life and you need to love it. I 

just hope that he is passionate about 

something. 

Do you think there is enough sponsorship 

for top class eventing? 

Sponsorship is particularly hard to come by, 

especially at the moment. Eventing is an 

expensive sport, and riders are always 

looking at ways of getting backing, and 

finding good horses. This was one of the 

reasons I started the Fox-Pitt Eventing Club. 

It means I can run the horses, and people can 

enjoy watching them. Gone are the days of 

big sponsorship deals. You’ve got to make do 

with endorsement and whatever else you can 

get. 

Do you think that the lack of big 

sponsorship holds the UK back in such 

events as the Olympics? 

We are very lucky that we now have UK Sport 

and Lottery funding, which is all very new. 

Other countries have had government 

funding for a long time, whilst we in the UK 

haven’t. The up-and-coming riders are getting 

much more of a kick-start than we ever did. 

What’s been your best ever moment? 

Probably winning Burghley in 94. I was 24 so 

it happened early on in my career. It was an 

indescribable feeling - in a way, the pressure 

was off, I had won a four star, and it also 

made me very hungry. Now I know what I 

really do want - I want it to happen again. On 

the other side if it doesn’t happen again at 

least I’ve achieved it once! 

What’s your worst moment ever as an 

eventer? 

I’ve had a few...Tamarillo being lame at the 

Olympic games, after the cross country when 

he was lying in 5th place but in contention. 

Probably the absolute worst moment would 

be having a fall into the lake at Badminton 

when my horse broke its neck, and had to be 

put down. I think that that’s as bad as it 

gets, losing a horse that you trust and have 

got a very close partnership with. 

41

EQUESTRIAN - Sponsored by Brickfields and Froghill 

“I arrived with ten pounds 

and a box of tools...” 

Herefordshire-born Phil Legge came to the 

Isle of Wight as a 20 year-old farrier, with 

an ultimatum from his father ringing in his 

ears: he had to give the move a good go, 

and so was forbidden from returning home 

for 12 months. As it turned out, he ended 

up loving the Island so much that he made 

his life here – and established Brickfields, 

the well-known equestrian centre and 

tourist attraction in Ryde. 

Here we talk to Phil about the early 

struggles and successes, his love for his 

adopted home – and his ambitious plans for 

the future. 

Born in Hereford in 1952, Phil grew up on 

his parents’ 150-acre dairy farm. He was one 

of a large family of six children, and 

because there was not enough money in 

farming in those days for all six of the 

Legge brood to earn a living at it, they all 

ended up venturing off into different 

trades. 

Phil failed the 11-plus and admits to 

skipping school a lot of the time to help his 

father on the farm or attend horse sales. “I 

was probably learning more at home than I 

was at school,” recalls Phil. “In fact, the 

only level I got was a spirit level!” 

Phil was passionate, though, when it came 

to horses. He had been riding them since 

the tender age of two, being led round the 

field by his father. By the age of four, he 

had his own pony to ride round the farm, 

and was a member of the North 

Herefordshire Pony Club for several years. 

Phil’s earliest experience of the equestrian 

business was buying “green” (unbroken) 

horses with his father, bringing them on 

and then selling them for profit. This gave 

him a wealth of experience in riding 

difficult horses. “As soon as I got a horse 

right, my father would sell it on to anyone 

with a pocket full of money” he recalls. “I 

always had something to ride, and I always 

had the best pony!” 

On leaving school at 14, Phil had already 

decided he wanted to be a farrier, and 

managed to secure an apprenticeship in the 

nearby market town of Bromyard, with J.G 

Searle & Son. 

“This provided a solid grounding for me, as 

J.G Searle had many elements to the 

business, including, agricultural 

engineering, blacksmiths, farriery shop, 

coach builders, and undertakers, so it gave 

me a wide and varied experience, all within 

one business” says Phil, who spent five 

years working there. 

“Although I just concentrated on the 

farriery, I did help out a lot in the other 

areas of the business, which gave me a good 

grounding for future life. During the five 

years of the apprenticeship, I spent 16 

weeks at college every year, which I loved. 

In fact I excelled in college. I built a really 

good relationship with my tutor Billy Watts 

who was a world champion farrier for two 

years running. He took me under his wing 

and looked after me”. 

Once Phil finished his apprenticeship, he 

had a gentleman’s agreement with his boss 

that he would not set up in business in the 

same area. 

“As I am a man of my word, I looked 

elsewhere to set up” he says. “At the time, a 

neighbour of mine had just come back to 

the Isle of Wight after visiting a friend of 

his (Harold George). I was told to give 

Harold a call as he could not get his horses 

shod on the Island because of a lack of 

farriers. 

“Harold suggested I should come down and 

have a look, and my father drove me here 

because my van would not make the 

journey. I was 20 then, and weighed 10 

stone! 

“On the way home I thought what a long 

way from home this was. It was a big step 

to move all this way, as I had never been 

away from home before. I had no money at 

the time as I was earning only £9 per week 

when I finished my apprenticeship. 

“However, my father said to me that if I 

decided to go, I had to agree to stay for at 

least 12 months, and not come back before 

the 12 months was up. He also said he’d 

pay a deposit on a mini pickup for me, to 

make sure I turned up with the right image. 

“So I came to the Island with a £750 mini 

pickup on HP, a box of tools, and about £10 


in my pocket, nothing else! 

Phil moved into digs in Sandown, and also 

rented a little lock-up in Ryde’s East Street, 

with two stables attached. His digs and 

workshop rent was only £8 per week, and at 

the time the going rate for a set of 

horseshoes was £2.50. 

“I used to make all the shoes myself from 

straight bars, as this was cheaper than 

buying them in” he says. “I only worked 5 

days a week, and was shoeing about 10 

horses a day, so I found myself suddenly 

very well off. I used to go home almost 

every weekend. The first two years on the 

Island was great fun, I had never earned so 

much money, and within 12 months I had a 

new car and a new pickup. All in all, I had 

the time of my life”. 

He met his wife-to-be, Pam, at one of the 

horse shows he used to go to. He recalls 

that once they started going out together, he 

didn’t seem to go back home to 

Herefordshire quite so frequently at 

weekends! He and Pam were married in 

1975, at Godshill Church, and soon 

afterwards they purchased Brickfields, 

although it was not exactly the place it is 

now. 

“Back then, it was a cottage and four acres 

of grounds, and a couple of tin sheds,” says 

Phil. “It had been a brick works. It wasn’t 

very expensive, as in those days you could 

buy a good house in a street for around 

£7,000. Brickfields was a little bit more than 

that though”. 

Phil and Pam couldn’t buy Brickfields on a 

normal building society mortgage because 

they had no books, no history… and, 

besides, the property was unmortgageable. 

In the event, a very generous local family 

loaned the money to purchase the property. 

“I had paid them back the money within a 

few years of borrowing it, with interest” 

says Phil, “ but I will never forget this kind 

act. I also had a lot of help from all my 

neighbours around me. They looked after 

me, and the Isle of Wight took me in, I 

suppose, I was very lucky, as really I was an 

outsider but I was a farrier, and the Island 

desperately needed a farrier”. 

The house itself was a shell, with no 

kitchen, no bathroom – and therefore a lot 

of work to do. Most of it was done in the 

evenings and weekends as Phil could not 

afford to pay anybody. “Everything was 

falling down,” he says. “We moved into the 

house with a tap on the wall and a drain in 

the corner”. 

In 1977 he built a new shed to house a 

caravan, which he and Pam used to use to 

take to all the shows to sell saddlery. 

“We used to wheel that caravan from the 

barn, drive to the show, pitch up, and then I 

used to go down the pub and leave Pam to 



sell the saddlery, because Sunday was my 

only day off! We used to drive back home, 

back the caravan into the barn, and hey 

presto we had a ready-made shop. We built 

a good business up with this during the 

summer months”. 

“This began to make us think about the 

winter months, when there was very little 

happening, and we decided to build an 

inside school where we could sell our 

saddlery all year round, as no one else on 

the Island was doing this. 

“So we applied for planning permission in 

1980/81 for the indoor school, car parks and 

refreshment areas, and that’s how the 

Brickfields Arena as you know it today was 

born”. 

Having got the planning permission, Phil 

then faced the job of financing the 

ambitious project. 

“I donned my best suit and approached my 

banks and got as much help from them as I 

could, in the way of loans and overdrafts,” 

he says. “However, I wish I had known then 

what I know now about borrowing money. I 

could have borrowed far more cheaply. 

“I could have been a lot wiser perhaps. I 

never planned anything really, things just 

happened”. 

“One of the comments people make to me 

nowadays is ‘why didn’t you do it this way 

or that way?’ I did it the way I could afford 

to do it at the time. People have to realise 

this - anyone can look back and say that’s 

easy to do... 

“With Brickfields, you’re always flying by 

the seat of your pants, and I don’t think 

that will ever change. I remember one 

horror story regarding the actual 

construction of the main arena. We had the 

building sitting at the docks waiting to 

come over, and the Building Inspector said 

that the ground was not good enough for 

the building to be erected on. 

“I phoned the manufacturers of the building 

and told them what the inspector was 

saying, and they promptly sent a professor 

from Oxford to the Island, who confirmed 

that the ground was more than good enough 

for the new building”. 

Now, Phil and his partner Mary (he and Pam 

are now divorced but on friendly terms) are 

looking to upgrade Brickfields again, by 

extending the arena to bring it up to 

international size. They also have plans for 

a new heated viewing area, a re-vamp of the 

bar and restaurant area, more shelter and 

stables outside the arena, and a resurfacing 

of all the car park areas. 

As Phil reflects, Brickfields has been a long 

journey, with many a twist and turn, and in 

a strange way the most important one is 

about to happen. 

“Brickfields desperately needs to be 

modernised in order to remain attractive 

both to the locals and to tourists” he says, 

“and if for any reason planning permission 

cannot be granted, then I suppose it could 

all possibly end, because without the 

investment and modernisation it will be 

hard to sustain the interest of both locals 

and visitors. I believe Brickfields needs the 

investment and I am willing to take yet 

another chance and go for this”. 

Picture Below: Phil Legge with son Simon and young Shire Horse Harry. 

43

GARDENING 

Landscaping 

driveways 

for curb 

appeal 

Nothing is less inviting than a 

bare concrete driveway as an 

entrance to your property. 

With the need to 

accommodate more cars 

than ever, the nation’s front 

gardens are fast becoming 

ugly old parking spaces. But 

you can do better than that, 

even in a small space. 

The entrance to your driveway is also the 

entrance to your home as a whole. How your 

driveway entrance is landscaped sets the 

tone for the viewer’s perception of your 

home. This is especially so when a property 

is bordered by a fence or wall, which focuses 

even more attention on a boring driveway. 

Driveways are a necessity in front gardens 

but they do have a tendency to dominate the 

area. Without some added areas of interest, 

a driveway exists as a purely functional scar 

running up and down your front garden. 

Landscaping with a little creativity can bring 

some much needed curb appeal. 

Landscaping driveways can consist of both 

hardscape and softscape. Hardscape options 

consist of walls and fences, while your 

softscape options include flower beds, 

ground covers, ornamental trees and shrubs - 

space allowing. 

The possibilities for landscaping driveways 

are greatly enhanced if you plan on 

including walls. This sets a backdrop for 

pots, shrubs and flower borders. Hardscaping 

can either parallel the driveway along its 

whole length or meet the driveway at the 

opening to the road, perhaps with a gated 

entrance. 

Decide whether the purpose of the 

landscaping is to accent the entrance of the 

driveway, run the length of the driveway or 

44 

With a little imagination, you can make your 

driveway an attractive front garden feature 

rather than an eyesore. 

both. Just accenting the entrance can 

certainly be cheaper, which is important if 

your budget is small and your driveway 

large. 

Accenting the entrance to your driveway 

adds depth to your front garden. It 

interrupts a viewer’s gaze from looking 

directly at the house. While you can use 

softscape to do this, consider the possibility 

of theft or vandalism of planting areas close 

to the street. Shrubs planted too close to the 

side of the road have been known to 

disappear or be trampled all over during the 

night. A sensible choice would be both a 

combination of hardscape to clearly define 

your garden boundary with shrub planting 

tucked safely behind the wall or fence. 

As with any design feature, you should be 

thinking about where you would like a 

viewer’s gaze to be drawn. This involves 

choosing a feature of your property to 

emphasise or, indeed, disguise. 

An effective budget choice is to plant beds of 

colourful annuals along the sides, which will 

draw the viewer’s gaze to the final 

destination of your driveway. If that 

destination is a rather ordinary looking 

garage that is in plain view from the street, 

then drawing attention to this is not the 

best idea. Likewise, if your property is 

already dominated by too many straight 

lines, then planting your driveway’s edges 

with straight flower beds may add to the 

severity. 

Another useful trick of the eye would be to 

complement an accented driveway entrance 

with an accented doorway to the house. By 

drawing the eye from the landscaping of the 

driveway entrance to the front door, the eye 

will bypass a boring old driveway. With two 

visual points of interest, viewer’s eyes will 

feel welcomed twice over. 

Block Paving Contractors: 

G.P Installations - 01983 617171 - 07831 513616 

R.G Dixcey - 01983 526508 - 07814 005840 

C.J Construction - 01983 401647 - 07899 930244 

Landscape Gardners/Designers: 

Tony Ridd - 01983 740067 - 07966 292334 

S P Landscaping - 01983 614573 - 07855 820556 

Tim Brayford - 01983 551412 


Basic tools for 

the novice 

gardeners 

It is often difficult for the 

novice gardener to know 

what tools to buy. There is a 

vast array available and they 

don’t come cheaply. Tools 

are a long-term investment 

so they should be selected 

with care. 

Good gardening tools will assist you in taking care of your plants as well as 

cultivating good growing conditions. Poor quality gardening tools can be 

detrimental to your garden and to you. These can cause injury to your plants 

or to yourself. Gardeners should find the best quality garden tool that they 

can afford. These provide quality work with the least labour possible. 

Always handle tools before purchase and try them for size. Look for a tool 

that feels comfortable in the hands, is a suitable weight, is an appropriate 

length and is well-balanced. Choose a good, well-respected brand, maintain 

the tool well and it could well outlive you. 

Below is a list of the essential garden tools and their uses. 

Spading fork: This is a multiuse gardening tool used for aerating and 

transplanting. You will need this for planting and splitting grasses and 

perennials as well as digging over soil and mulch. 

Hoe: A hoe is useful for weeding and cultivating the surface of the soil to 

allow penetration of nutrients and water. 

Cultivators: This modern gardening tool is available with patented tines to 

help in cutting the hard compacted soil smoothly. This garden tool helps 

extensively in preparing vegetable plots and flowerbeds. 

Rake: Buy a good rake, which has short tines on one side attached to a metal 

frame or bow. These are used for levelling the soil after it has been turned 

and prior to planting or for removing large clods of earth or rocks from the 

soil. You can also turn a rake over and use the flat side to smooth soil in 

preparation for planting. 

Shears: Select a pair of garden shears that fits comfortably in your hands. 

Shears, sometimes called clippers, are used for pruning, shaping and 

removing foliage or branches. 

Secateurs: A pair of top quality secateurs is a good investment. They are 

essential for pruning and harvesting fruits, flowers and some vegetables. Buy 

a small pair for light pruning and a pair of heavy duty, long-handled 

secateurs for pruning woody branches. 

Trowel: A hand trowel is necessary for small planting jobs, weeding, mixing 

and fertilising. 

Watering can: Long nozzles allow water to flow at a gentle rate and are useful 

for reaching plants at a distance. Select a watering can with a detachable 

spray head for watering young seedlings. Plastic cans are lighter in weight 

and last longer than metal ones. 

Hose: Buy the best hose you can afford, as cheap ones tend to kink and snarl. 

Wheelbarrow: Before you purchase one, take it for a spin around the shop. 

Make sure that the handles are neither too wide nor too narrow and that the 

wheelbarrow isn’t too heavy. 


Top crops 

in pots 

GARDENING 

Growing fruits and vegetables traditionally involves either a vegetable 

patch or greenhouse. The lack of space and growing interest in landscape 

and design has forced out fruit and vegetable crops from many gardens. 

However, it’s been revealed that potted crops can yield an abundant crop 

and look decorative to boot. 

As well as being productive, many fruit trees and bushes make beautiful 

plants in their own right. Growing them in pots makes good sense if you’re 

short of space. Even a humble gooseberry trained as a standard can be 

every bit as elegant as a much pricier clipped bay tree or box shrub.” 

A recent trial was conducted, which showed that gooseberries and 

strawberries did particularly well, bearing impressive crops in their first 

summer. Raspberries, a fruit that does not have a good reputation for 

thriving in pots, produced a good harvest, as did the orange, lemon and 

lime trees. 

Fruit that requires specific soil types, for example blueberries, which need 

free draining acid conditions to thrive, proved to be perfect for potting. 

Confined to containers with compost that suits them, plants can be grown 

regardless of soil type. 

The research also found that growing fruit in pots was a good way of 

overcoming difficulties such as pest infestation and bird damage, because 

smaller plants are easier to protect and treat. 

Like their larger counterparts, potted fruit have decorative spring blossom 

and attractive foliage, making them striking additions to patios and 

conservatories. 

Trailing tomatoes, peppers and green or golden courgettes can be grown in 

pots, as well as leafy salads, parsley, spring onions, mini-beetroot, sage, 

chives and many other vegetables and herbs. 

New or time-challenged gardeners will prefer to buy young plants from 

garden centres. Stay clear of leggy plants and ensure that you buy them 

early enough to establish for late summer crops. 

Try growing crops in tubs on your patio, hanging baskets or window boxes. 

A tomato tumbler will put on a spectacular show with masses of fruit and 

foliage spilling over the edge of the container. 

Sweet peppers are perfect for Mediterranean summer salads and the shiny 

fruits look delicious planted in a patio container. Courgette flowers grown 

in pots are both attractive and edible and the fruits make a tasty addition 

to any meal. 

Choosing your container 

Always choose large containers that can hold a generous quantity of 

compost. Small pots dry out quickly at the height of summer and don’t 

produce such luscious crops. 

Avoid plastic pots in windy areas, as these could blow over and damage the 

plants. Instead, choose colourful glazed or terracotta pots, ensuring they 

have a large drainage hole in the base. 

After putting in a layer of gravel or broken-up polystyrene, to improve 

drainage at the base, fill with compost. Any multi-purpose potting compost 

will do, including peat-free types or one specifically formulated for patio 

pots. 

To encourage better water retention, which is vital for many fruits – except 

citruses – and vegetables, you are advised to thoroughly mix in waterretaining 

gel crystals into the compost. At the same time, add sufficient 

slow-release fertiliser granules to provide nutrients right through summer. 

Always water crop plants before and immediately after planting. 

Adding canes or a plant support frame to the pot allows you to include 

climbers too, such as French and runner beans. 

45

GARDENING 

Splash 

out on 

a water 

feature 

It’s that time of year again, when you heave 

open the patio door and venture into what’s 

left of the garden, after the ravages of winter 

have taken their toll. It’s likely you’ll have 

some work to do – and if that work is likely 

to run to a makeover, then it’s worth 

knowing that this year, all that shingle and 

decking is out … and good old grass is 

making a comeback bid. 

Another old favourite on course for a revival 

this year is the relaxing water feature. 

Actually, water features never went away – 

although some of them left a lot to be desired 

in the tastefulness stakes. 

The new generation of streamlined, 

sophisticated water features mean getting it 

right. So let’s start with services: how many 

gardens have you visited where you see an 

electricity cable running across the lawn, which 

is then plugged into a socket in the 

conservatory or kitchen? This looks so bad that 

we call it the fountain out of a box syndrome. 

Electricity is electricity - whether it is supplying 

a string of lights or a water feature pump. 

Remember, it can kill, so make sure any feature 

is installed correctly. 

The best option is to hire a fully qualified 

electrician to do the job (Islandwide Electrical 

Tel: 526061). Depending on the distance, it 

could cost anything between £70 and £500 to 

run a cable that will not end up frying your 

barbecue guests or the pet pooch. 

If you are a DIY-er intent on doing the job 

yourself, there are some basic rules you must 


follow: 

- Use armoured cable, available from most 

electrical suppliers, or ensure that the standard 

flex that’s supplied with most water features is 

run in tough plastic trunking. 

- Bury the cable at least 12” underground - any 

shallower and you’ll run the risk of clipping it 

with a fork or lawnmower. 

- If you don’t fancy digging, then run the cable 

above ground, along a fence at least 2 feet off 

the ground where it can be clearly seen. Clip 

the cable at 18” intervals on a piece of timber 

3” x 1/2” which you screw to the fence prior to 

fixing the cable. The most important thing is to 

ensure the cable is connected to an RCD unit, 

so it trips instantly if accidentally cut! 

With practical safety issues dealt with, you can 

now choose your water feature. Firstly, keep it 

in proportion to your garden. The Trafalgar 

Square fountain would look out of place in the 

average garden, yet a surprising number of 

people make this mistake and go for overkill. 

Another craze is to buy four or five different 

water features when it’s usually better to opt 

for just one striking centre piece that’s in 

proportion to the scale of its surroundings. 

Once you start looking, you’ll find a whole 

range of water feature types, from the spitter 

to the terrace pond, the natural cascade or the 

modern/contemporary design. Budget anything 

from £30 to £1,000 depending on the design 

and level of sophistication. All models come 

with pumps that can be replaced 5 years down 

the line if required.. 

Your choice will come down to individual taste, 

but trend-watchers are expected to be going for 

the modern/contemporary looks this year (as in 

the example pictured above). There are also 

water features suitable for use indoors, which 

work by re-circulating the water supply. These 

are the perfect choice for conservatories or 

verandahs. 

If you’d like more expert advice, call in at Busy 

Bee Garden Centre, Brading Road, Ryde. 

Tel: 01983 811096. 


GARDENING 

47

FASHION 

The season of sensible, comfortable boots is drawing to a close, 

which means that most fashion conscious women will be getting a 

pedicure in preparation for sexy sandals. This season, sandals come 

with maximum height killer heels. While gorgeous and super sexy, 

these could seriously damage more than your little pinkies. 

Leading posture and performance expert Dax Moy warns women 

that the resurgence of the five inch-heel could seriously damage 

their health, not just by leading to postural problems, but also 

period pain and even infertility. 

Moy’s comment comes as many designer labels, high street stores 

and fashion magazines are unveiling their spring/summer 

collections aimed at getting British Women to ‘glam up’ by wearing 

the 70s-inspired five-inch ankle breakers. 

Just about all the major designers have gone high-rise in the sandal 

department this season. One of the hottest footwear designers to 

hit the catwalks is Camilla Skovgaard, who has collaborated with 

Matthew Williamson for his catwalk shows. Her shoes are hot to 

trot - well, you might just about manage to walk. 

The high street, as usual, will follow in the footsteps of the 

designer trends. Once again, women will be adopting the attitude of 

no pain, no gain. They will suffer in silence as they dance the night 

away and take home a collection of nasty blisters. They may even 

twist their ankle, if not break it. But the health issues extend far 

beyond these kinds of dangers, according to Moy. 

“Most women are intimately aware that the prolonged wearing of 

even moderate heels can cause foot, ankle and knee problems and 

lead to back pain, but very few are aware of the very real health 

consequences caused by these unnatural positions,” explains Moy. 

“It’s not just about the feet; it affects every single function in every 

48 

Trendy killer 

heels could 

damage more 

than your feet 

joint and muscle throughout the body and can seriously affect the 

health of women that insist upon wearing them. 

“More important than the postural problems involved, however, is 

the potential problems that high heels can cause in relation to 

fertility, menstrual cycles and abdominal function. 

“When you wear high-heels, the pressure on the front of the foot 

causes you to compensate by excessive forward tilting of the 

pelvis. This tilting allows the abdominal contents to spill forward, 

producing that ‘pouch’ that many women have wrongly come to 

think of as a fat stomach and in doing so compressing internal 

organs in a condition known as visceroptosis. If left unchecked, 

this can lead to menstrual dysfunction and increases in period 

pains as well as affecting the ability to conceive.” 

Moy told ITV’s This Morning viewers that the risks don’t stop 

there: “Neck, back, shoulder pain, stress headaches and even 

premature hair loss can all ensue as a result of ignoring the way 

your body is designed to work. Seriously, if you value your health 

in any way at all, avoid these aptly named ‘killer’ heels at all costs. 

They’re just not worth the risk.” 


Fashion 

for thirty-plus 


OLSEN . BIANCA . GERRY WEBBER . PRET A PORTER 

GARDEUR . POLA . SLOPPY JOES . TRICKERS 

FASHION 

Open 7 Days 

Four Seasons 

The Old Smithy 

Godshill 

Tel: 01983 840364 

Open 7 days 

49

HEALTH & BEAUTY 

This season sees the return of 

the “Natural Look” at long last. 

There are many ways of 

achieving this as you all know, 

but what products are available 

on the market that feel light, 

and allow your skin to 

breathe, whilst at the same 

time offering an element of 

some protection. 

Jane Iredale has come up with the 

perfect solution, a range of sensibly priced 

skincare make-up that’s a new technology as 

opposed to a refinement of normal make-up. It offers, fast 

weightless coverage due to pure pigments and lack of fillers 

such as talc, UVA & UVB sun 

protection, minimum allergy 

risk, and a wide range of 

long lasting colours 

from foundations, to 

eye shadows, to 

blushers, to lip 

plumping colours 

and glosses. 

Great looking 

make-up needs 

a great 

foundation 

which means a 

healthy skin. 

P8-N8 skincare 

delivers 

stabilised 

oxygen to the 

deeper layers of 

the skin along with 

Japanese Green Tea, Vitamins A & E and enzymes, to reveal 

younger healthier fresher looking skin. 

Easy and straight forward to use it can be used by men, women, 

teenagers, sun-worshipers, smokers and finally yachties... 

Price guide P8-N8 - 30ml - £37 

Neither of these products are tested on animals and are only 

available at selected salons and cosmetic clinics such as The 

Beauty Sanctuary, Sandown (Tel: 406934). 

Getting to 

the root 

of problem 

hair 

Each issue, we’ll focus on one of the most popular 

treatments on offer at the Orchard Cosmetic Skin Centre. 

This month: a revolutionary intense pulsed light system 

that offers relief to people suffering the embarrassment of 

excess body hair. 

For one 25 year-old Isle of Wight woman (who we’ll call Sally), life 

became almost unbearable after being diagnosed with poly-cystic 

ovary syndrome. The condition causes a dramatic increase in male 

sex hormone levels, leading to excess hair growth – and for Sally, 

the effects were devastating. 

“First I started growing sideburns, and the problem got worse over a 

period of five years. Hair started appearing on my chin and neck, 

and I had to wax regularly, which was unpleasant and painful. 

I’d have to pluck hairs for an hour before going out, to the point 

where I didn’t want to go anywhere. 

“Apart from the physical problems, I became withdrawn and was 

prescribed anti-depressants”. 

However, after just four Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) treatments at the 

Orchard, Sally now says: “The difference is unbelievable. At least 

two thirds of the thick hair on my cheeks is gone and I’m confident 

that another one or two sessions will clear it completely”. 

She added: “My mum is so impressed that she’s now considering 

the treatment to remove hair from her top lip which has developed 

since the menopause”. 

So how does IPL work? According to Máire Rhatigan, the consultant 

ophthalmologist who runs the Orchard Cosmetic Skin Centre, it 


aims precisely-controlled pulses of filtered light into 

the skin. These are absorbed by the melanin 

pigment in the hair, which heats up and destroys the 

cells responsible for hair growth. 

“It’s safe, non-invasive, non-surgical and does not 

involve medication,” says Máire, “but the best thing 

is that it’s the most 

permanent form of hair removal available. At least 

75% of the hair is removed permanently, and the rest 

grows back lighter and finer, and at a more normal 

rate. 

Men as well as women have been opting for the 

treatment – in the case of men, it’s usually to tame 

over-vigorous hair growth on back, shoulders and 

chest. Many women choose the treatment to give 

them "smooth summer legs" without the painful 

waxing. 

“Excess hair might sound trivial, but for those 

suffering from it, it definitely isn’t,” says Máire. 

“They have to cover up in summer, refrain from 

swimming or playing sports – and, in some cases, are 

afraid to get involved in relationships” 

For excess hair sufferers, the other big advantage of 

IPL is that there is minimal discomfort – unlike 

painful waxing, electrolysis, and other forms of hair 

removal which many of them have tried. 

Said Sally: “I was worried that it might be painful 

but it really wasn’t. You have cooling gel applied as 

well as an air cooler, so you hardly feel anything”. 

Most patients notice a significant change after three 

treatments. The recommended course is 5-6 

treatments, but each patient is assessed individually. 

In fact the process begins with an individual 45minute 

consultation, which includes taking a patch 

test, medical history and photographs. 

The patient pays a consultation fee, but this is 

deducted from the first treatment. Expect to pay 

between £80 a session for the chin, to £120 for chin 

and upper lip and £300 for full leg. 

Patient Sally says that before she heard about the 

Orchard, she’d been investigating a similar treatment 

at a clinic in Southampton. 

“It was great to find I could have it done on the 

Island, because it saved me a lot of money on all 

those travelling costs.” 

Sally commented... 

Picture: before treatment. 

Picture: After treatment. 

HEALTH & BEAUTY 

Before treatment. After treatment. 

“Now I’ve done it, I’m really happy. 

To me, it’s been worth every penny!” 

Island Life - www.islandlifemagazine.net 51

Travel by 

Martin Eccott - Regent Travel 

Postcard from a 

Private Island 

Nestled into the peninsula of a private island, 

Beachcomber’s Sainte Anne Resort & Spa blends 

effortlessly with its surrounding natural beauty. 

With all the finesse of a 5 star Mauritian cousin, this hotel offers an 

excellent level of service, superb accommodation options and top 

class cuisine. 

Paradise location 

Strung like a string of pearls, the 115 islands that make up the 

Seychelles, experience a year round warm climate, crystal clear 

waters and some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world. 

Sainte Anne is an island gem framed by two beaches, situated in a 

National Marine Park and located a convenient 10 minute boat ride 

from Mahé. It is also the exclusive home to Beachcomber’s Sainte 

Anne Resort & Spa. This romantic retreat is the only hotel on the 

island and offers guests the perfect luxury hideaway. 

The Finer Points 

Villa accommodation is open plan with private, hedged garden and a 

staff entrance from the rear path to ensure absolute privacy at all 

times of the day. There are five types of villa. The Beau Sejour is set 

within beautiful tropical gardens and the Villa Providence has an 

extensive living area with views across the gardens towards the 

beach. For larger parties, the Villa Bel Air is double the size of the 

providence and closer to the beach. 

Spa Therapy 

What better therapy than a day at the Clarins Spa? Set in a peaceful 

location, the spa is a true sanctuary for the senses with a full range 

of treatments available. Sample a luxurious massage with 

aromatherapy oils, as well as a full range of beauty treatments such 

as facial, manicure and pedicure – the perfect way to start off your 

holiday. 

Special Occasions 

The Sainte Anne Resort & Spa is ideal for couples celebrating a 

special occasion. During the day, relax on the beach or, on market 

days, take a boat trip to Mahé and visit the capital, Victoria. Every 

restaurant is ‘a la carte’ so you’ll always have a variety of dishes to 

choose from wherever you dine. Honeymooners are treated to fruit 

and flowers in the room on arrival and a small gift from the 


IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 

management. If you are a member of a wedding 

party or celebrating an anniversary, Beachcomber 

often offers discounts off your accommodation, 

too. 

Outdoor pursuits 

If you ever tire of the twin beaches, there are 

nature trails, mountain bikes for hire and 

although motorised sports are not permitted on 

this marine reserve, the snorkelling is some of 

the best in the world. Other water based 

activities include complimentary sailing, 

kayaking, pedaloes and glass-bottom boat trips 

with deep sea fishing, scuba diving and boat 

excursions to Praslin available at an extra cost. 


Winter sun and ski 

holidays... 

Peace of Mind 

Beachcomber Tours are proud to say that the Sainte 

Anne Resort is one of its flagship properties and if 

you would like to find out more about this paradise 

island, the UK team regularly visit the island and 

will be delighted to offer first-hand advice on Sainte 

Anne or any of the other Beachcomber hotels that 

interest you. For more information call Regent 

Travel on 01983 863013. 

It’s a real deal... 

This is an unbelievable deal from Regent Travel, you 

can stay at the London Marriot Hotel (4 Star) in Maida 

Vale for 3 nights, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, for only 

£99.00 p/p (room only). The offer is open from 1st 

May through to 9th July 2006. A great opportunity to 

go on that special shopping trip, take in a show and 

visit some of Londons amazing sites. Call Regent 

Travel on 01983 863013. 

London £99 - 3 nights - 4 star 

Sponsored by Regent Travel - TRAVEL 

Raising 

Funds 

Regent Travel and The Crab Inn 

are actively engaged in raising 

money for charities. 

Through donations, appeals, 

boxes and more recently with 

the help of the Crab Inn Quiz 

Nights!. Our last campaign was 

for Breast Cancer and between 

us both we managed to raise a 

total of £318 which was split 

equally between two charities. 

We are now raising money for 

the local Mountbatten Hospice 

and you are most welcome to 

join in the Quiz Nights, or make 

a donation to our appeal. 

The Crab Inn Quiz takes place 

Tuesday evenings. 

The Crab Inn, Old Village, 

Shanklin. Tel: (01983) 862363 

BOOK WITH 

REGENT 

TRAVEL 

and have piece of mind... 

Just to remind you 

about the benefits of 

booking through 

Regent Travel. 

1. A.B.T.A. and A.T.O.L. 

bonded holidays and flights. 

2. Professional advice. 

3. Personal attention from 

one of our Travel Consultants. 

4. NEW. Coffee is now 

available within our warm airconditioned 

office, offering 

you a relaxed, stress free and 

enjoyable booking experience 

– and don’t worry we also 

have decaffeinated! 

Confidence, Quality, Assurance 

and a Coffee?.. 

53

LOCAL TOURISM 

IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 

We visit Melville Hall’s 

new Utopia Spa facility... 

Dine like a king 

at The Royal 

When hotel proprietor William Bailey took on the landmark Royal at 

Ventnor 11 years ago, he realised he was facing a gargantuan task. 

In fact, he recalls, the beautiful but faded Victorian hotel had 

certainly seen better days: “It was totally run down, and the food 

was disgusting” he declares. 

“We certainly had a challenge on our hands” explained William. 

“The hotel had been owned by Trust House Forte, and had lost all of 

its three stars from the AA. All the staff were fed up and demotivated, 

and one of the first tasks had to be to start building a top 

team, in a very short time”. 

Eleven years on, and the picture at the Royal couldn’t be more 

different. The Island’s only four star hotel, it now boasts two AA 

rosettes for its food, a standard which has been maintained 

consistently for the past seven years. 

“It takes a long time to build a top team,” says William, “so we are 

very fortunate to have kept the same brigade together for several 

years now”. 

Heading up the hotel’s culinary “dream team” for the past nine 

years has been head chef Allen Stayley, who trained at the Isle of 

Wight catering college before moving to what is arguably the most 

distinguished training ground in the UK – the Savoy in London, 


IN THE NEXT 

ISSUE... 


We visit Bourne Hall 

Country House Hotel 

under the tutelage of world-renowned chef Anton Edelman. 

Allen also worked briefly on the QE2, before moving to another toprated 

hotel, the Chewton Glen, where he worked under head chef 

Pierre Chevillard, helping the hotel to achieve a Michelin star. 

However, the Island lad always had a yearning to return home – so 

when William Bailey offered him the job of head chef at the Royal, 

he jumped at the challenge. 

Allen explains that when he started out as a chef, he realised that to 

get on in his career would mean having to leave the Island and work 

in some of the top London restaurants. 

“Things have changed on the Isle of Wight now though,” he says. 

“There are more opportunities to cook at the top level, and all the 

members of my team here have been developed on the Island”. 

In fact, every one of the dozen chefs he now has working with him 

is an ex-student of the Isle of Wight College. The strength of the 

team, he says, is the main reason for the hotel’s success in 

consistently maintaining food standards at two rosettes over a 

number of years, whilst catering for up to 120 people at a time. 

The hotel’s Appuldurcombe Restaurant has long been sought-out by 

visitors to the Isle of Wight, but local residents have also caught on 

to the hotel’s growing reputation for its Sunday lunch and dinner 

menus – and diners in the know have rated the food as among the 

Head Chef 

Allen Stayley 

best to be found on the Island. 

LOCAL TOURISM 

Head chef Allen aims to source as much produce as possible locally, 

including free range poultry from Brownrigg Poultry in Godshill – 

and, of course the legendary crab and lobster caught off Ventnor 

Bay. If he can’t get what he wants on the Island, then he sends his 

refrigerated van to the big London markets, Smithfield, Covent 

Garden and Billingsgate, to ensure that diners at the Royal are 

served only the best. 

As well as attracting a wider clientele for dinner and Sunday lunch, 

the Royal has also built a thriving function trade. Not surprisingly, 

the architectural grandeur of the hotel has made it a magnet for 

wedding receptions – and now that the hotel has obtained marriage 

licensing certification, families can hold the wedding ceremony 

there too. 

If you haven’t yet visited the Royal – or perhaps not for a while – 

you might be in for a surprise. It’s certainly worth considering as 

the venue for any family or business occasion you have on the 

horizon, or simply for a special lunch or dinner with friends. 

55

ISLAND HISTORY 

The lost 

world... 

by Nick Pointing 

Some would argue finding Niton is like going to the ends of the 

earth. Well I disagree. If you live there, then it is the centre of your 

universe, however going just that little bit further may seem like it. 

The Blackgang Road spurs out of Niton village with vigour. The new 

road opens up ‘back of Wight’ as it was once affectionately known, 

climbing the hills of St. Catherine’s, the surface is smooth, wide and 

with a beautiful sweeping curve that embraces any motorist with a 

passion for driving. 

Before you know it, it is all over. The brow of the hill brings a truly 

inspiring view over the South West Downs and patchwork farmland. 

Descending into Blackgang, the gateway to the Military Road unfolds 

beyond, yet amongst the bountiful beauty laid out in front we are 

guilty of neglecting probably some of the Island’s most impressive 

cliffs, but it is a fault which can be forgiven. 

The new road glides over a fantastic wilderness hidden below that 

was once as familiar and accessibly as the Under cliff of St. 

Lawrence. It all came to a sticky end in 1928 with a tremendous 

landslide and rock fall of upto 200,000 tons close to Windy Corner at 

Rocken End. Today, Gore Cliffs above St. Catherine’s lighthouse is a 

sleepy National Trust car park that ends abruptly, teetering on the 

edge of no-mans land. 

The old Blackgang Road followed a similar route as the current 

under cliff hugging close to the contours of the rock face. After 

leaving Niton, the route passes St. Catherine’s and onto Windy 

Corner; there, back at the turn of the century a famous photograph 

captured the very moment the old road gave way, and the image is 

now immortalised in just about any local history book regarding the 

Isle of Wight. 

Although it was one of the first reported landslips of Blackgang, and 

probably not the last, it did ultimately lead to the building of the 

new road, leaving below a forgotten memory. 

Standing in the car park at Rocken End, looking west, it is hard to 

imagine that there was ever a way through. The blue slipper has 

undermined the weathered cliffs, now home to nesting seagulls, 

leaving a moonscape of debris interwoven with pockets of greenery. 

Access to a small community came to a sad end in the winter of 

1994/1995 with a huge landslide which hit the headlines of the 

national media. An entourage of press and television overwhelmed 

Blackgang and Chale, reporting of the severity of the slide and the 

reluctance of local residents to move out. 

Die- harders' fought to stay despite the Council condemning the 

land, but finally the small hamlet of caravans, cabins and a grand 

Victorian house fell ever deeper into a lost world. 

Gaining access today is certainly not recommended due to the 

unpredictable land movement reinforced by council warning signs. 

However, some of us wayward folk ventured forth. Midway 

between Niton and Blackgang is a stretch of road cut off from the 

outside world. The surface is still with tarmac, and ivy clad stone 

walls separating road from dwelling. The sense of isolation is 

intriguing with an air of lost reality. There aren’t many places in 

the world which are trapped in time, we are so used to development 

that it is hard to appreciate a place of neglect. 

I believe Salisbury Plain has a village unchanged since the war, now 

preserved by the MOD and a flooded valley exposes its residential 

treasures only during droughts, but to have this on our doorstep is 


fascinating. Although vehicle access ceased from the 

Blackgang end during the 1970’s the evidence lies 

littered all around – Bedford vans and Rover cars of a 

similar ilk and age play host to bramble bushes. 

Walking down a vacant road in full sun, birds whistling, 

and knowing you are completely alone is surreal. 

Reminders of days gone by fuel the imagination. 

Further on, found along the roadside neatly set in a 

stone wall is a Victorian water fountain which was 

either to supply locals or weary travellers, it confirmed 

a beaten track that’s no more. 

I find myself whispering in a vain attempt not to be 

heard, but by whom? I tiptoe lightly passed a home 

displaying ‘Private’ – am I alone? Evidence is scarce, 

telegraph poles stand abandoned in full tilt and 

wireless. The road to 

nowhere passes a once 

grand Victorian house 

called Southview. 

My thoughts are filled 

with romantic notions 

and idyllic England. 

Back down to earth, 

the next challenge is to 

transverse no-mans 

land back to the car 

park, ever hopeful of 

an easier route, I head 

north through thick 

undergrowth. Laid 

before me is a truly 

unexpected surprise, 

for here is a small 

section of road 

completely 

independent from the 

rest and clearly 

untouched for many 

years. 

At first it is hard to 

appreciate the early 

civil engineering, the 

ground is covered with 

ivy, and trees have 

seeded where horses 

and carriages passed by 

and three foot or so 

stone walls give 

definition to the sides. 

My Great Aunt Lily who lived to 100 years old, once 

read me a detailed account from her diary of her 

journey through the undercliff by horse and carriage, 

and standing here evokes thoughts of Victorian 

glamour. In one way it is sad that nature has reclaimed 

a small piece of history, but in another, its created a 

tiny wilderness that is hard to find. 

ISLAND HISTORY 

Picture Left:The Victorian 

water fountain, stuck in time. 

Below: The cottage, which 

was deserted many years ago, 

however it has “private” 

freshly painted on a sign? 

Bottom: The eery path that 

has been frozen in time, 

telegraph poles, and old cars 

lay littered along the route. 

Island Life - www.islandlifemagazine.net 57

MUSIC & ART 

9, 10, 11 

“this year will 

JUNE 

blow people 

away” 

FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY 

The Prodigy 

Placebo 

Goldfrapp 

The Rakes 

Morning Runner 

Foo Fighters 

Primal Scream 

Editors 

Dirty Pretty Things 

The Kooks 

The Upper Room 

747s 

The Isle of Wight Festival is without question one of the best things 

that has happened to the Island for many years. Apart from the 

world-wide branding exercise it creates for the Island, it is also 

bringing some positivity back into the Island, which is so much 

needed. 

I caught up with John Giddings, the festival organiser and had a 

chat with him about his take on the Islands biggest yearly event. 

Q. What made you consider starting the festival again? 

The idea of reviving the 1970’s event was suggested by Lindsay who 

worked for me at the time, back then my feelings were that it was a 

rubbish idea, and that it would not work. However Lindsay who 

lived on the Island kept badgering me until I come round to her 

Coldplay 

Richard Ashcroft 

Lou Reed 

Maximo Park 

Kubb 

way of thinking. 

Q. Why was the Fairlee site chosen and not West Wight? 

It could not happen over West Wight for various reasons, transport 

links, and the area was in-accessible for large volumes of people. So 

the site at Fairlee was suggested, it had good transport links, it 

backed onto the River Medina, with a pub and hotel to hand, this is 

a perfect location. 

Q. Do you think the festival will grow in the future or are you happy 

with the size it is? 

If anything I would make it smaller, I am not trying to compete with 

Glastonbury, it’s the Isle of Wight, people have to remember this. 


Q. Will the festival extend from 3 days to say 5 days? 

No! 

Q. Will it ever move to the 

mainland? 

No! 

Q. Do you promote other 

festivals or is the Isle of 

Wight festival the only one 

you promote? 

I have never organised a 

festival before this one (Isle 

of Wight). This is the only 

one I intend to do, I do it 

purely for the enjoyment, 

not for the money. 

Q. Who are some of the big 

names that Solo manage? 

U2, Madonna, Rod Stewart, 

The Corrs, Westlife, Rolling 

Stones, David Bowie and so 

on... 

Q. When do you start planning the 2007 festival and have you got 

acts in mind at this early stage? 

I start planning now for 2007, my biggest worry is who on earth can 

I get to top the Foo Fighters and Coldplay for next year, it’s 

frightening... 

Q. Will we ever see the likes of Elton John, Robbie Williams etc at 

the IW Festival? 

No, these are not festival acts. ,they are 'middle of the road', and 

not the kind of artists that attract young people to a field - Elton 

should play Osborne house. 


MUSIC & ART 

Q. Will you continue to bring over smaller acts to Ryde Theatre? 

It all depends who takes over Ryde Theatre, as soon as the 

management situation is resolved I will probably start to look at 

bringing acts back to the theatre. 

Q. What’s your biggest worry when organising and 

running the festival for the 3 days? 

Booking the acts and paying for them, because if you 

have not got the money you are history. On one 

particular year (2003) I lost $1million so the rest is 

rubbish if you have not got the money. Also believe it or 

not it’s the local residents I worry about the most. I pay 

an awful lot of money both to the local council and the 

Police (in fact the Police bill has tripled this year). I feel 

that it is the Police’s responsibility to look after the 

residents whilst the concert is taking place. I ensure 

that everything within the confines of the concert are 

run correctly, I just hope that this year the police spend 

more of their time and effort looking after the local 

residents, like stopping people urinating in their 

gardens etc. If the local residents have the trouble they 

had last year then it will seriously make me think about 

next year, as I said earlier, I am doing this for fun, I 

don’t need the money...and when it’s no longer fun, 

well you can work that one out for yourself... 

Q.What’s your favourite part of the festival? 

I get a kick from watching the audience, the sheer look 

of excitement on their faces. I love to stand in the 

audience, you get a much better feel and the music 

sounds much better than on stage. 

Q. Name a few acts from past festivals that have 

personally blown you away ? 

The Who, David Bowie, REM, and Faithless to name a few. 

Johnny Borrell 

Photo:County Press 

59

PROPERTY FEATURE 

60 

Worried about 

becoming a 

landlord? 

Owning one or more properties which pay for 

themselves can be one way of protecting your 

future. More and more people are choosing this 

instead of relying upon other people to look after 

their money and assets. If YOU choose to buy a 

property with a view to letting it out it is essential 

that you do your research. 

Step 1 

Firstly, and most importantly you need to see a Financial Advisor so 

that you know what your borrowing capacity will be. You must make 

sure that you do not overstretch yourself as there will be times when 

you will need to pay for maintenance or need to cover the mortgage 

payment if the property is vacant. 

Step 2 

Now you know how much you can spend you need to give 

consideration to the type of property you will be looking for. When 

doing this you will also need to consider whether you will be 

marketing to a particular group i.e. a family or a professional couple. 

Another consideration will be the area. 

Step 3 

When you finally decide which area and what type of property you are 

looking for obtain as many property details as you can and arrange to 

view . We can also arrange to accompany you on these viewings so 

that we can advise on letting potential, achievable rent and also 

whether the property needs any work to bring it up to a suitable 

standard for letting. A number of our Landlords have found this 

service particularly useful. 

Step 4 

Having found the property, your next concern will be to let it as soon 

as possible. We will keep in contact with you every step of the way 

and once contracts have been exchanged and a completion date agreed 

we will contact potential tenants and arrange viewings to ensure that 

the time the property is vacant is left to a minimum. 

Step 5 

Finding the right tenant is the next step. This is as important to us as 

it is to you. Very few letting agents on the Island, big or small, offer a 

fully comprehensive referencing service which is undertaken by an 

independent company. The references company that we use check 

affordability, seek employers, landlords and bank references. They also 

carry out a credit check and provide us with a credit score. Our aim is 

always to find the best possible tenant for your property. 

Step 6 

As we all know life is never straightforward so occasionally events 

occur which lead to a change in the tenants financial circumstances 

and to cover this event we would always advise Landlords to protect 

themselves by taking our rent and legal protection insurance to cover 

non-payment of rent and also legal costs if eviction proceedings have 

to be taken. Most Letting Agents offer this insurance but to varying 

degrees. There is usually an excess to pay which can be one month’s 


Above: Linda Lovell - Lettings Manager Pittis, Newport. 

rent and by the time the claim is processed it can be two months since 

you last received rent. This can obviously lead to financial hardship 

for you as a Landlord. 

What we are offering you as a Landlord is a Rent and Legal Protection 

Policy with a difference and we believe the only one of its kind on the 

Island. The cover provided is 

a) For up to 12 months rent due but not paid by the tenant 

b) Cover for up to £50,000 of legal expenses arising in respect of any 

material breach of the tenancy agreement by the tenant 

There are other policies available which offer the same sort of cover 

but what they don’t offer you is 

a) Rent NOT PAID by the Tenant is paid by US direct to the Landlord’s 

account within 15 working days of the rent due date. This means that 

the Landlord will know that his rent will be paid by a particular date 

regardless 

b) The is NO EXCESS payable by the Landlord 

c) When vacant possession occurs in breach of a Tenancy Agreement 

cover will continue for up to one month after possession has been 

obtained provided we are re-marketing the property for letting on a 

sole agency basis 

This Rent and Legal Protection Policy is being underwritten by our 

parent company Arun Estates which means that we have a greater 

interest in ensuring that the tenants are carefully selected and that the 

tenancy is carefully monitored. We would of course inform you if a 

proposed tenancy would be unacceptable for inclusion in the scheme. 

It is our aim to take the worry and the strain away from you the 

Landlord. We can also advise on all aspects of the tenancy be it legal 

or financial so why not give Linda Lovell a call on 01983 526670 to 

discuss your personal requirements. 


More and more people are 

considering a rental property as a 

long-term investment. Thanks to 

the buy-to-let scheme, a joint 

venture of letting agents and 

mortgage lenders, the whole 

process has become far more 

attractive and achievable. But 

there are mistakes to be made. 

Here are some of the most 

common mistakes for first-time 

investors. 

Buying a single house or flat: 

All it takes is for your property 

to sit vacant for a couple of 

months, or a tenant to run out 

on the lease, to put you in a 

financial bind. Experts advise 

that first-time investors look at 

houses with the ability to 

convert to maisonettes. This way 

you can either live on one side 

and receive rent from the other 

side to pay your mortgage or rent 

out both sides and give yourself 

some breathing room in case one 

tenant moves out in the middle 

of the night without paying his 

rent. 

Buying to suit your own tastes 

and needs: You need to stop 

thinking like a homeowner and 

start thinking like a business 

owner. Just because you love 

large gardens doesn’t mean that 

tenants will have the same 

preferences. Large gardens just 

spell a lot of maintenance for 

some busy people. Think about 

the needs of your tenant, which 

could be a child-safe home near a 

school for families or a modern 

flat in a convenient location for a 

single young commuter. 

Not doing your homework: An 

inspection of both the property 

and area is crucial but you 

should also make a thorough 

investigation of the current 

rental market. Tenants are 

looking for a value for money 

deal, which means they are 

looking around and comparing 

what other properties offer for 

the same cost. This means you 

need to stay ahead of the game, 

finding out what is on offer too. 

If tenants can get a similar home 


Top mistakes for 

buy-to-let property 

Be careful, dont buy a run down 

building thinking you have 

found a bargain... 

to the one you offer but with 

white goods included, they are 

going to go for the best deal for 

them. Buying cheap white goods 

and throwing them into the deal 

may prove to be an attractive 

package for tenants. 

Investing long-distance: Keep 

your rentals very close to home, 

say experts, unless the property 

is located in an area you visit 

regularly, otherwise you will eat 

up your profits by driving back 

and forth to manage the property 

or by paying someone to make 

repairs for you. 

Underestimating home 

improvement costs: Like any 

home improvements, it will 

probably take three times the 

money and twice as long as you 

estimate to get your buy-to-let 

ready to rent. You need to 

account for those extra costs. 

Breaking your own rules: As a 

landlord, you need to establish 

policies and stick to them. Don’t 

ever let someone move in 

without a security deposit and 

always establish clear ground 

rules for the rented property, like 

no pets or decorative changes. 

Always set up direct debits or 

standing orders for the rent. 

Being underinsured: Insurance 

on rental property goes beyond 

insuring the building against fire 

or damage. You need to look at 

your own coverage for liability. If 

someone falls down the stairs 

because of a loose stair rail, you 

could be liable for accident 

claims. 

61

www.pittis.co.uk 

Bembridge £370,000 

4 bedrooms, lounge/diner, kitchen, garage 

G.C.H and D/G 

Bembridge Office: 01983 875757 

Totland £375,000 

5 bedrooms, kitchen/breakfast room, 

2 receptions, views of Hurst Point. 

Freshwater Office: 01983 756222 

Wootton £325,000 

3 Bedrooms, study, kitchen, gardens backing 

onto countryside with views to Solent 

Newport Office: 01983 528888 

62 

Seaview £260,000 

The property, situated on Seaview Heights, comprises a mock Tudor style detached 

residence with accommodation to include a living room, kitchen / dining room, three 

bedrooms and a bathroom. The home enjoys the benefits of gas central heating and 

double glazing and further bonuses include a driveway, garage and gardens. 

Bembridge Office: 01983 875757 

Calbourne £375,000 

This is a family sized residence offering adaptable accommodation and enjoying lovely 

countryside views from the front aspect. Accommodation comprises 4 bedrooms, 2 

receptions, kitchen/breakfast room with 'Aga', utility room, cloakroom, & double garage. A 

must see property. 

Freshwater Office: 01983 756222 

Offices in: Newport - Bembridge - Shanklin - Sandown - Cowes - Ryde - Freshwater

Shanklin £395,000 

5 Bedroom, 2 reception detached house situated in a cul de sac location. Two en-suites, 

twin garages, security system, countryside and woodland views. 

Shanklin Office: 01983 868777 

Brighstone Price Guide £440,000 - £460,000 

Grade II listed character cottage in picturesque setting offering 4 reception rooms, 

kitchen/breakfast room, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathroom/WCs, central heating, detached garage, 

extensive gardens with a stream and rural views to all aspects. 


Shorwell £350 - £375,000 

Cowes £251,500 

Sandown £349,950 

www.pittis.co.uk 

2 receptions, kitchen/diner, 5 Bedrooms, 

Oil fired central heating, Countryside Views. 


4 bedrooms (main en-suite shower), 2 

receptions, utility room, gardens, parking. 

Cowes Office: 01983 292345 

8 bedrooms,4 receptions, sun lounge, 1 

bedroom annexe, parking, gardens. 

Sandown Office: 01983 407444 

D o y o u v a l u e y o u r h o m e ? W e d o F R E E o f c h a r g e 

63

64 

prestige department 

Offices: Newport - Ryde - Cowes - Freshwater 

Newport Office - 01983 524000 

newport@foxproperty.co.uk 

A stunning proper ty with great 

accommodation. 

Victoria Road 

Freshwater 

Unique character property 

Three spacious reception rooms 

Four bedrooms, master en-suite 

Two further shower rooms + family bathroom 

First floor conser vator y & two tower rooms 

Parking, sought after location 

Gui de Price £4 25, 000 

Newport Offic e - 01983 524000 

Location, location, location 

country views. 

The Old Stables 

Havenstreet 

Detached former stable home 

3 bedrooms - 1 en-suite 

Plenty of parking 

Sought after village location 

Upgraded throughout 

No onward chain 

Guide Pri ce £27 5,00 0 

Ryde Offic e - 01983 811811 

Ryde Office - 01983 811811 

ryde@foxproperty.co.uk


www.foxproperty.co.uk 

Cowes Office - 01983 292929 

cowes@foxproperty.co.uk 

A lovely detached home with 

Victorian style conservatory. 

Homeslea 

Wootton 

Detached family home 

3 bedrooms 

Victorian style conser vator y 

Tucked away location 

Off road parking and garage 

Well stocked garden 

Guide Pri ce £ 25 0,00 0 

Ryde Offic e - 01983 811811 

A beautifully presented family 

home in a popular village setting. 

The Ridge 

Medham 

Beautiful presented detached home 

3 /4 bedrooms 

Large kitchen with utility room 

Garage & gravel driveway 

Gas central heating & Double glazed 

Popular village location 

Gui de Price £2 69, 995 

Cowes Office - 01983 292929 

Freshwater Office - 01983 759618 

freshwater@foxproperty.co.uk 65


We all love a 

thatched cottage... 

Birchmore Cottages - Blackwater 

Price £249,950 

Call Newport Office: 

01983 524000 

Offered by Fox Property is this beautiful 

semi detached, chocolate box thatched 

cottage which is situated in the rural 

hamlet of Blackwater. It has recently been 

lovingly upgraded and modernised to a 

high standard by the current owners. 

One of the biggest projects undertaken by 

the current owners was a complete rethatch 

to the roof during the summer of 

2005, this instantly eliminates any 

worries for potential buyers considering 

buying a thatched property. 

Once inside you will find a newly refurbished 

large kitchen/diner, a decent 

size lounge with a fully operational open 

fireplace, and a stunning beamed ceiling 

plus bedroom on the ground floor. 

Upstairs there are two further bedrooms 

and a newly fitted modern bathroom with 

a whirlpool jacuzzi bath which you can 

soak in after a stressful day at work. 

66 

The cottage occupies 

a corner plot so has 

gardens to the side and rear. There is a 

gated gravel path up to the front door and 

this leads around to the patio area at the 

rear. 

A mature hedge screens the property from 

the road and a large flower border has 

been planted with heathers and shrubs. 

To the rear the garden is mainly lawned 

and is again screened by a high hedge and 

mature shrubs. 

There is a path leading down to the 

gravelled parking area. Within the garden 

there is a timber summer house, this is 

split into two sections. The rear is a 

utility/workshop with electric sockets. 

The front is a sitting area with double 

doors that open up to allow views over 

the garden. 

Buyers note: 

Planning permission has 

been applied for to build an 

extension to the side of the 

cottage under TCP number 

26980/A. This will form an 

extra bedroom on the first 

floor and an extra reception 

room on the ground floor. 



Two 

minutes 

from 

Fishbourne 

ferry 

Two minutes from Fishbourne ferry, this 

well known landmark of a property is 

essential viewing. Set in a substantial 

plot boasting a natural pond to the 

foreground of the property. 

‘Mallards’ was built in the late 1970’s and 

constructed on natural stone and brick 

elevations beneath a tiled roof. 

The property itself comprises entrance hall 

with parquet flooring, lounge/dining room, 

kitchen, utility room, bathroom/w.c., and 

morning room to the ground floor. To the 

first floor are 4 bedrooms to include master 

bedroom with en-suite, and bathroom/w.c. 

In addition to the extensive lawned 

grounds is a double fronted garage with 

electric up and over style doors. 

The balcony off of the master bedroom 

affords the owner an ideal opportunity to 

sit and relax, whilst absorbing all of the 

splendour of ‘Mallards’ setting. 

The property is chain free. 

Price £575,000 


Call Pittis & Sons, Ryde to arrange a 

viewing on (01983) 564646. 

Contact Pittis on 

01983 564646 


67

MOTORING 


The old Austin 7 keeps 

on going and going... 

The IW Austin Owners Club was formed in 

1986, when founder Viv Orchard decided 

there were enough owners of the famous 

motor on the Island to form an association. 

We asked Nigel Offer, a member of the club 

and the owner of the featured Austin 7 – 

“Where do people find these old cars?” 

“Well most Austins, believe it or not, are 

discovered in old barns, where they have 

often been covered up and left unused for 

many years. Even today I guess that there 

may be some Austin 7’s that have still not 

been discovered on the Island, even though 

we have found plenty of them already.” 

“For instance, my Austin was discovered by 

pure chance in a garage in Brading. It had 

not been used since the 1970’s. After buying 

it, I spent the next two years restoring it at 

weekends, spending every possible minute in 

the garage - much to my wife’s dismay...” 

It can also be interesting to do a little 

research into the previous owners. Nigel’s 

Austin was owned in the 1950’s by an 

American airman based at Greenham 

Common, who then sold it to a Sheila Bartlett 

who came from Newbury. Sheila, who last 

saw the car in the 1950’s, sold it for £14 10s. 

In an ironic twist, this same Sheila ended up 

doing the Centenary London to Brighton run 

with Nigel in the Austin 7 that she owned 

back in the 50’s. The driver who Nigel bought 

the car from had purchased it from a man 

who ran a caravan business in Middlesex. 

Old Austins are fairly cheap to buy, although 

the buying price has to be offset against the 

enormous amount of time, money and labour 

that can go into restoring them. The 

dedication can pay off, though, as a properly 

restored Austin 7 can fetch up to £7,000. If 

you’re lucky enough to come across an old 

Austin hidden in a barn, then the best place 

to start looking for parts would be the 


Beaulieu Auto Jumble, in July which includes 

a special Austin weekend, offering virtually 

every part you’d need to build an Austin from 

scratch. IW residents are also lucky to have 

the Austin 7 Workshop, which is a great 

source of help. 

As Nigel points out, another advantage of 

owning an Austin 7 is that there’s no need 

for road tax, and the insurance is cheap, (in 

some cases only £50 per year, which includes 

breakdown). However – prepare for a bit of 

waiting around at MoT time. The modern 

MoT allows 40 min to carry out the test 

process, and the garage cannot log out of the 

system before this time – but because the 

Austin is so simple, it takes only around 

20minutes, so you have some time to hang 

around. If you are looking at buying a classic 

car then the Austin 7 is probably the cheapest 

to keep on the road. 

MOTORING 

We recently caught up with Nigel Offer and his cherished Austin 7. This sturdy but genteel 

little motor has a unique charm about it, reminiscent of days gone by, when driving was a 

pleasure and the pace of life was rather more sedate. Nigel has lovingly restored his 

Austin, and reckons it’s probably more pampered than his wife. We find out what the 

attraction is of these old cars from a bygone age. 

The IW Austin 7 club is good fun, with about 

14 enthusiasts meeting every Sunday at The 

Old Smithy car park in Godshill. Visitors from 

the mainland who are over on holiday often 

drop in too, for the chance of seeing an 

Austin pull into Godshill that they haven’t 

seen before. 

If you would like to explore the possibility of 

becoming an Austin 7 owner, then your first 

port of call would be Nigel, who can be 

contacted on 01983 872609 or e-mail 

nigel.offer@virgin.net 

69

MOTORING 

The perfect travel 

companion 

Portable 

Navigation 

nuvi 350 

£549 

The Nuvi 350 carries full 

European mapping while the 300 

is UK only. Aside from this, and 

the text-to-speech facility on the 

350, both units are very similar. 

Text-to-speech allows full road 

names to be announced so, rather 

than the usual, "Turn left", you 

will hear, "Turn left on to the 

B1365". The downside is that the 

voice is rather 'robotic' and can be 

difficult to understand to some 

people. 

Packed into its diminutive 

dimensions (3.87" W x 2.91" H x 

0.87" D, 5.1 ounces) it is a 

portable GPS navigator, Audio 

Book Player, traveller's reference, 

and MP3 player. Yes, it can do 

many other things besides 

navigate you from A to B, and it 

runs CitySelect V8, supporting full 

7 digit postcodes for the UK (at 

last). 

Sporting a 320 x 240 pixels (3.5" 

diagonal) 64k TFT touch screen 

display, the Nüvi's built in SiRF III 

GPS provides automatic routing, 

turn-by-turn voice directions, and 

touch screen control, but that’s 

just for starters… 

70 

Discrete & 

distinctive... 

The new VW Jetta 

By Nick Pointing 

It’s funny how the little things mean so much. 

The process of road testing was delivered by the 

dealership with care and courteously but not 

over stated, relaxed and not intimidating, 

allowing me to focus on what was important - 

the car, the new Jetta from VW. 

Concealed within the remote control the key 

springs out on the touch of a button, this was 

incredibly tactile and it was released and closed 

too many times to mention, almost forgetting 

what I had come for! Although the winter air was 

biting I stood for a while to appreciate the ascetics 

– discrete and distinctive spring to mind – what a 

contradiction! 

From side profile, the lines are grown up and 

mature with its fashionable high waistband there 

is attention to detail giving an expensive feel to 

an affordable car. 

The 1.6 is responsive, escorting the entry model 

through all six gears. The handling is confidence 

building and soon allows the national speed limit 

through some of the Island’s more challenging 

roads. 

Brighstone, Brook and onto Compton where here I 

pull in and evaluate the interior which I find full 

of ergonomics and is intuitive. Everything is at 

hand and the cabin is full of refinement, although 

a sea of black and grey, it is all with purpose and 

again there is attention to detail. 

Travelling West the road widens, and here I find 

the opportunity to exploit the Jettas potential, the 

ride is comfortable, reassuring and given the 

chance motorway miles would be a breeze. 

I never did confirm the claimed top speed of 

120 mph rising to 146 mph for the 2 litre 

sports model but I guess I will just have to take 

their word for it. 

As with many manufacturers, there are endless 

optional extras and a variety of paint, trim and 

engine sizes to choose from; however the entry 

model packs a pretty good deal. As standard, 

you can expect alloy wheels, rear electric 

windows, ESP, rain sensors, dusk sensors, auto 

dimming rear view mirror and a multifunctional 

computer. 

Superbly positioned within the VW range I 

found the Jetta to be excellent value for money 

and a pleasant comfortable drive, with more 

than enough comforts to keep me happy. 

For further details: 

Esplanade Ltd 

Medina Ave 

Newport 

Isle of Wight 

(01983) 523232 

www.esplanade.co.uk 


BMW’s 

stunning X3... 


Life can be a bit of a circus, a balancing 

act, too much work not enough play. 

Getting the balance right can be a 

difficult task, one that BMW have 

achieved beautifully with the new X3. 

It is hard to drive past the Snows BMW garage 

without slowing down and taking a quick glance to 

the left on your way to Yarmouth, however, today 

driving past was not an option as I turned in for an 

eagerly anticipated test drive in BMW’s stunning 

new X3. 

The team at Snows BMW proved a valuable source 

of endless 

information 

outlining a 

formidable array of 

options, 

specifications and 

product detail. 

On presentation of 

my Bavarian chariot for the day, the 3.0 d M Sport 

imposed a presence which was exciting yet 

reassuring. Exciting because engineered under the 

hood lays a 6 cylinder, 24 valve, 3 litre, 218hp 

producing diesel capable of a 7 second 0-60. Now 

that is enough for anyone, let alone a beautifully 

crafted body in the form of a sports activity vehicle 

and reassuring because not only is it a BMW, but it 

is designed on a 3 series chassis combining a 

commanding pilots view of the world with car like 

characteristics such as handling and feel. 

Granted, the model I am lucky enough to drive for 


the day is top spec complete with sports 

suspension, putting pay to Island roads. 

Turning left into Forest Road, the acceleration 

through the 6 speed step-tronic gear box was 

impressive. Although automatic transmission, 

it includes (AGS) adaptive gear box system, 

giving freedom to choose between automatic, 

sports automatic, and step-tronic sequential 

manual gear selection. I played with all of 

these and thankfully, it could not be simpler to 

use, designed to suit your driving mood. Due 

to my genuine excitement, my driving mood 

was pretty upbeat, so challenging the handling 

brought back that magic word of balance and 

quite rightly the X3 has got it off to a tee. 

I had become very attached to the X3 and 

considered how well BMW had catered for a 

wide range of motoring needs. It looks 

imposing, drives beautifully, sufficient ground 

clearance, 4 wheel drive and loads of room, 

appearing to compromise nothing. 

How well balanced is that? 

Contact: Snows BMW 

Forest Road 

Newport 

Isle of Wight 

Tel: (01983) 522555 

MOTORING 

Above: The 350 trip computer 

For the easily bored and the 

permanently unimpressed, the 

Nüvi also packs an MP3 player, 

audio book player (from 

Audible.com), JPEG picture 

viewer, world travel clock with 

time zones, currency converter, 

measurement converter, and a 

calculator. 

As an mp3 player it is superb, and 

the fact that music can be played 

while navigating is a huge bonus. 

As a navigator it excels, I would 

go so far as to say it blows the 

TomTom GO clear out of the 

water. True it has no BlueTooth 

phone connectivity, but for me 

that is not an issue: I’d rather 

have a solid, reliable, elegant and 

sexy GPS that I can carry easily 

than a fat, retro-bubble house 

brick that doubles as a car kit (and 

door stop), but that’s just me… 

I can’t fault the build quality at 

all. The Nüvi is slim, strong and 

exudes quality like no other GPS 

system I have seen to date. It 

looks like it came from the future 

(well 3 years into the future 

anyway). The screen is beautiful, 

and it’s anti-reflective too, giving 

a vibrant image that is easy to 

read in both bright and dark 

conditions. 

Take my word for it – this is quite 

simply the greatest in-car GPS you 

get at the moment. 

It’s just brilliant. 

Snows BMW stock the Garmin 

Nuvi 350 at £549. 

For information contact: 

Snows BMW 

Forest Road 

Newport 

Isle of Wight 

01983 52 32 32 

71

MOTORING 

The C2, it’s full 

of personality... 


Citroens success with its predecessor the Saxo has established 

itself as a serious contender within the super-mini market. 

Enter the compact and stylish C2. Everything about this car is 

young and vibrant, it’s built on a cornerstone of innovation 

and tradition, yet it is funky and contemporary. 

I have always admired Citroen for its bold statement and 

genuine foresight. The French car manufacturer holds credit 

to a list of ground breaking firsts, and tucked 

away within the C2 is evidence of this. 

This little Citroen is full of personality, when 

the midlife crisis hits, you could either have a 

weekend away with your secretary en-route to 

buying a Harley or run off with a C2, it’s that 

kind of car. The Furio 1.4 was light and precise 

as it shuffles between urban chicanes allowing 

easy execution of the driver’s demands. The 

brakes bite effortlessly on the approach to speed bumps with an 

incredibly light clutch making gear selection as smooth as a pint of 

Boddingtons. Small vehicles tend to fall one way or another, either 

as a second car or they become captured by youth, inspired by the 

screening of Fast and Furious. 

Although very capable of adequately satisfying both needs, my 

More grunt than a 

Warthog...... 


There’s a presence felt in the air. In waiting my test drive is poised 

like a wild cat, Skoda are clawing back. Like a lion tamer you are 

never quite sure and my initiation into vRS territory felt the same. 

The Skoda Octavia vRS is one hot hatch worth getting to know 

intimately for many reasons. Reason No1 - WHATCAR magazine car 

of the year, best hot hatch 2006, reason No.. well I could go on but 

money’s on the attention that it will get from fresh thinkers, 

especially if you consider the 1.1 model at 61 bhp benefits 

from a low insurance group with all the good looks of the 125 

bhp VTS. 

Unique sporty detail completes a desirable cabin, supported 

by translucent fittings in creative colour of blue, crystal and 

amber. This little car is thinking outside of the box, mid life crisis 

or not with colour palettes entitled wicked red, Poseidon blue and 

artic steel youth is never wasted on the young, any age, it’s here 

for the taking. 

Contact: Central Garage, Newport, IW 

Tel: (01983) 526541 

the list is endless and I'm itching to drive it. 

I’m hardly half a mile down the road and I’m grinning, it’s sure 

footed and nimble with a pacy performance. This is Octavia at its 

best, 0-62 mph in just 7.3 seconds, taking the vRS to pole position as 

Skoda’s fastest-ever production car, and I can see why. The road 

unfolds, embracing sweeping bends with ease, uncharted territory 

and unfamiliar tarmac submit gracefully. 

The brakes rise to any challenge, their bite is crisp and forceful 

which combined with superb handling gives the driver ultimate 

control. The interior reflects the vRS’s status, inspired rally trim well 

crafted and spacious for four. It’s far to easy to forget you are driving 

a Skoda Octavia as the vRS addition certainly pays for its keep, 

rewarding you with an exhilarating ride. 

The exterior styling of the vRS is quite aggressive, grunty and 

masculine, it means business... With its flared arches to 

accommodate the 18” Alloy wheels, and the body kit which 

seamlessly blends in, it becomes seductive, for both young and old. 

Value for money and 

practicality make this a 

thrilling all rounder, now 

with a new agenda the mood 

over Havenstreet has 

somewhat changed. 

Contact: 

F.H Winter & Son 

(01983) 882455 


The RX-8 

its got wow factor! 

We're not going to mess about here: the Mazda RX-8 is fabulous. 

The company has taken a fairly loony idea - a fast, four-seat, reardrive 

coupe with rear-hinged back doors and a rotary engine - and 

made it a production reality. 

The RX-8 nameplate logically follows RX-7, but this car is not like 

its quick, but very raucous, predecessor of the mid-1990s. This 

model is a refined coupe with accommodation for four adults and 

their luggage, the ability to comfortably eat motorway miles, as well 

as put a smile on the keen driver's face when the going gets twisty. 

It's also great value; the standard equipment levels are extremely 

high and prices are (comparatively) low. 

Mazda is the only manufacturer to pursue the development of the 

rotary engine. The RX-8's twin-rotary engine, dubbed Renesis, 

develops 192 or 231bhp dependant on the model, and comes with 

the same comprehensive warranty as other Mazda models. The car's 

construction seems very solid, and the interior is one of the best to 

come out of Japan. 

The RX-8 has a great image, and a cameo in X-Men II will have done 

it no harm. 

The RX-8 gets many of the basics right. It has a very good driving 

position. The seats are low-slung (for a four-door with a boot), but 

very supportive and on the driver's side, fully adjustable. The 

gearlever is stubby, triangular in profile and a joy to use. The small 

steering wheel with its ideal-width rim adjusts for rake. 

Unlike previous rotary engines, there is far less driveline shun. The 

RX-8 is easy to drive smoothly, and provides maximum thrills while 

remaining eminently usable and comfortable. 

The steering is responsive and 

all pedals, and the gearbox, 

have a cohesive, progressive 

feel. It's an agile car, and stable 

when pushed. 

Keen drivers will also discover 

that, with the stability control 

switched off, the RX-8's tail 

slides beautifully through 

corners. Judicious use of the 

throttle will straighten its line 

on the exit of tight, damp 

corners to provide fuss-free 

handling that's plenty of fun. 

Contact - Northwood Garage, 

Newport Road, Cowes. 

Tel: (01983) 296031 


Take Note... 

MOTORING 

Nissan's Note is the latest car off the Nissan-Renault B platform, 

which forms the basis of models including the Micra, Clio and 

Modus - and it's the roomiest yet. 

Stretched so it has a longer wheelbase than many C-sector cars, it 

replaces the Almera Tino compact MPV and although it's not quite 

as big overall, it's just as practical, feels more spacious inside and 

is even more user-friendly and 

easy to drive. This is a familysized 

car that really can seat tall 

teenagers or adults comfortably in 

the back yet, with its sliding rear 

seat, can adapt to carry a decent 

amount of luggage. 

There are no gimmicks in the 

Note, therefore: the rear seats do 

the usual split-folding thing, and 

slide backwards and forwards on 

their base by up to 160mm, but 

that's about as complex as it gets - 

unless you're opting for the topspec 

models with keyless entry, 

automatic headlights and rainsensing 

wipers. 

Three different engines are 

available: 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre petrol engines (88bhp and 110bhp) 

or the 1.5 dCi diesel (86bhp). Prices start from £9,995, and 

automatic transmission is a £700 option with the 1.6 engine. 

The Note looks a bit like a blown-up Micra with a squared-off X- 

Trail rear end, but it's well proportioned and nicely done, with a 

friendly face and a fresh-looking, modern air. It's a car that a 

family could be proud to have on their driveway. 

The Note is absolutely user-friendly, with clear controls, an 

excellent driving position and obedient handling. The power 

steering is much-improved on that of the overlight Micra, giving a 

bit more feedback and a more accurate sense of where it's going on 

the road. 

Standard kit includes ABS anti-lock brakes, front and side airbags 

(with passenger airbag cut-off switch, should you wish to put a 

child seat up front) and Isofix child seat mounting points. There's 

not the full array of curtain airbags offered in some models these 

days with the lower-spec versions, but SE and SVE versions do add 

two more. 

Contact: Staddlestones, Brading Road, Ryde. 

Tel: (01983) 562705 

73

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Post Code: 

I enclose a cheque for £12.50 made payable to Island Life 

Signed: Date: 

www.themortgagemarketplace.uk.com 

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. 

Send your completed form to: 

Island Life, 66 Victoria Avenue, Shanklin, Isle of Wight. PO37 6LY 


C A R P E T S & F L O O R I N G w i t h s t y l e 

FREE Many 

UNDERLAY 

ON ALL CARPETS over £15.99 

on production of this advertisement 

This exclusive offer is only available to Island Life Magazine readers who can 

choose a quality carpet from Islandwide with the added benefit of our specially 

selected underlay free of charge. This offer is not advertised eleswhere or in-store 

so please remember to bring this ad along with you. 

We are Carpet 1st retailers, part of a network of 

over 200 outlets throughout the UK with 

combined buying power in excess of £80 Million 


large outlets simply forget how important service is. 

As a Carpet 1st independent retailer, Islandwide Carpets offer 

personal attention from experienced staff to whom every 

customer matters, couple this with professional installation by 

fully qualified fitters, and your satisfaction is guaranteed. 

Our extensive showrooms have displays from all 

leading manufacturers with simply thousands 

of options of design texture and colour. 

Plus Professional 

• Fitting 

• Advice 

• Measuring 

• Planning & Estimating 

All part of the service. 

C A R P E T W A R E H O U S E 

4 Star Street, Ryde, Isle of Wight. Telephone (01983) 564 958 

75

The RX-8

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