Hayling Island News

Rogue Traders Warning

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 11:34:21 +0100

Rogue traders are reportedly cold calling in Leigh Park and the surrounding area of Hampshire claiming residents need to replace their TV aerial in order to receive the digital TV signal. However most people with a good aerial now will not need a new aerial for switchover and remember there is no such thing as a digital aerial.

Whether you need a new aerial for switchover will depend on the condition of your current aerial and where you live. If you currently have poor reception on your analogue TV then you may need to replace your aerial at switchover. A small number of households may also need a wideband aerial to receive all the channels available. To find out if this affects you visit www.digitaluk.co.uk/youraerial or call 08456 50 50 50.

Trading Standards would advise residents not to agree to any work that is instigated as a result of a cold call or via a leaflet drop. If you do need to replace your rooftop aerial look for a Registered Digital Installer (RDI) who has been trained and security checked. To find an RDI near you visit www.rdi-lb.co.uk or call the Digital UK advice line on 08456 50 50 50.

Please note if you are over 75 disabled or on certain benefits you may be eligible for help from the Switchover Help Scheme. This means you could get one TV set at your home switched to digital for just 40. Those who are entitled to help should have already received a letter and information pack though the post but to check if you are eligible please visit www.helpscheme.co.uk or call 0800 40 85 900.

If anyone has any information about traders who are cold calling claiming TV aerials need to be replaced or any other doorstep crime issue they should contact Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Service Quick Response Team on 01962 833666 (Monday Friday 0900hrs to 1700hrs) where specially trained officers are on hand to provide advice.

Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Service
Montgomery House Monarch Way
Winchester Hampshire SO22 5PW
Tel: 01962 833620
Fax: 01962 833698
E-mail: doorstep.crime@hants.gov.uk

Missing Cycle Link!

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 09:36:27 +0100

CYCLING between Havant and Hayling Island is about to get easier as new cycle routes are set to be installed.

Since 2003 cyclists have been able to ride along the pavement over Langstone Bridge sharing the space with pedestrians.

But at both the north and south end the cycle way has stopped abruptly because the pavement becomes more narrow.

It meant that cyclists had to either dismount or join the busy traffic.

Now Havant Borough Council plans to make 40 yards of pavement on the northern side of the crossing for shared use by both pedestrians and cyclists.

A new section of track is also set to be built for cyclists at Langstone away from the busy road.

And plans are afoot to tackle the southern end of the bridge where cyclists currently have to dismount.

Once completed it will mean there will be a continuous off-road cycle route between Havant and Hayling along the Hayling Billy Trail a popular cycling and walking route along the old Havant and South Hayling Railway Line.

Hayling Cllr Andy Lenaghan also a keen cyclist said: This will make it a lot safer and user-friendly to save people having to dismount when they reach the other side of the bridge.

At the moment you have to cycle off a dropped kerb into the flow of traffic.

Its dangerous at the moment.

But some cyclists criticised the scheme and said it does not go far enough to help them get safely on and off the island.

They say the pathway is still too narrow.

Paul Fisher committee member for Cycle Hayling is pushing for a separate leisure bridge for cyclists.

Mr Fisher said: Its just a cheap way of addressing a serious issue which they dont take seriously.

Steve Mountain the councils special projects engineer said a leisure bridge was not financially viable in the current climate and said this scheme would make it a safer journey.

He said although the 40 yards of pavement which is set to become a cycle route was narrow it was only a short section and was therefore safe.

He said: We have some money which we can achieve a solution with.

What we have not got however is the extra money to do what in many peoples view would be an ideal job.

Thats not strictly necessary at the moment but yes there are aspirations for the whole route.

HIRA News

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:39:16 +0100

Save Hayling Petition Campaign Review

At our January meeting a presentation and discussion took place on the outcome of the petition the Council meeting and what the future may hold.

Chairman Paul Fisher opened the meeting by reviewing the process so far. The purpose of the petition had been to bring to the attention of the various official bodies in the planning process the following:

� Hayling residents did not think that in that process the correct steps had always been followed and that many factors pertaining to the unique status of Hayling as an island had equally not been taken into account. These particularly related to the very limited and constrained infrastructure of the Island.
� Of special concern would be the many demands placed upon the road network that is already near saturation as any reference to recommended highway standards will confirm. Also it is felt that other services such as sewerage electrical power and medical cannot be stretched much further.
� Even with a reduced allocation in the current 15 year plan Hayling would still be taking a proportion of the Boroughs housing allocation (the powers that be say need) that significantly exceeds the Islands proportion of Borough residents.
� It is interesting to note that even though the population of Havant is only predicted to increase by some 3000 over the next 15 years more than 6000 houses are apparently needed to accommodate them. This is largely because of the increasing number of single households being factored into that prediction.

A petition had therefore been arranged to press for a review of the infrastructure problems. Supporting that view the signatures of over 4000 Island residents had been obtained and verified. Signatures from other interested persons raised the total to some 4500.

This was duly presented to the council in a well publicised event in October. On 14th December the full Council debated the resolution presented by the petition with the result reported in this publication last month.

This outcome was that the Council on the whole did not accept that there was any failure to consider fully the special case of Hayling. As a concession it was agreed to arrange a meeting with the appropriate authorities to at least allow discussion of the various matters the main one being the limitations set by the road network. As yet no date for such a meeting has been agreed though progress on this was being made.

After Pauls review the members present discussed various related matters. Much of this revolved around the type of development that would be preferred on the Island on the basis that some would inevitably occur.

In view of the road limitations many people were of the view that to provide housing for people that always required extensive commuting options should be discouraged. Older people intending to downsize and thus release family accommodation could be encouraged. This group often seemed to be ignored but need and often can afford to buy at current market rates whilst making little demand on the road network. It was also pointed out that increased traffic would make cycling much more dangerous especially given the absence of any serious cycle commuting routes on Hayling.

The discussion ended awaiting the setting-up of the meeting mentioned above.

Other matters

There is some concern being expressed about a proposed development at Yachthaven much of it being however about the inconsistencies in that proposal. The North Hayling RA is addressing the matter.

Dog fouling is always being raised for discussion. Effort should be made to encourage everyone to alleviate this. All dog owners should be aware that all council bins can be used to deposit their collections not only the red bins. The Safer Neighbourhood Team of Hayling Police have agreed to adopt this issue as one of their priorities for the foreseeable future

Tony Higham

Hayling Crime Author Pauline Rowson to give talk at Portsmouth Central Library for National ...

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 09:40:53 +0100

Pauline Rowson author of the popular marine mystery crime series set in the Portsmouth and Solent area featuring DI Horton will be helping to celebrate National Libraries Day on Saturday 4 February with an event at Portsmouth Central Library between 10.30am to 12.30pm.

Her latest DI Horton novel A Killing Coast is published in hardcover on 26 January. It is the seventh in the series which has followers across the world including in America and China. A Killing Coast is set in Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight.

National Libraries Day is a celebration of libraries across the UK. Events and activities will take place in a variety of libraries including in schools colleges universities and public libraries in the UK in the week leading up to and on National Libraries Day on Saturday 4 February.

Pauline Rowson will be at Portsmouth Central Library on 4 February talking about her novels and her crime writing and there will be the opportunity to win signed copies of her crime novels with a murder mystery quiz hunt for clues around the library and the chance to be named as a character in one of her forthcoming DI Horton crime novels.

Tickets cost 3.00 and can be purchased at any library in Portsmouth or by contacting libraries@portsmouthcc.gov.uk or telephone 023 9281 9311. The event is open to everyone.

For more information on National Libraries Day visit http://www.nationallibrariesday.org.uk/

For more details on Pauline Rowsons books visit http://www.rowmark.co.uk

Plans unveiled for new hotel and restaurant near busy Havant road

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:29:09 +0100

NEIGHBOURS spoke of their concerns about traffic parking and loss of green space as plans for a new hotel in Havant went on show.

Developers laid out their plans for an 80-bedroom two-storey Travelodge hotel and a separate 300-cover restaurant on land at Bosmere Field close to the Langstone roundabout.

Brewery Greene King is proposing to build a farmhouse-style Cloverleaf restaurant in the south-east corner of the site.

Fasset Ltd which manages Langstone Technology Park has drawn up plans and officials told people at Bedhampton Social Hall that a hotel was needed to cater for the business community.

The development would have space for around 150 cars.

But residents feared the congested Langstone Road would get even worse as people queued to turn right into the single access road also used by workers at Langstone Technology Park.

Members of Langstone Residents Association described the road as gridlocked between 4.30pm and 6.45pm every day.

Havant resident Keith Chessell said: Road access is a serious problem.

Personally I think you are going to find it very hard to find some means of combating the problem.

There was also concern about overspill of cars into surrounding residential roads.

Kate Turner chairwoman of Havant and Bedhampton Community First the residents panel that hosted the presentation said: It causes problems across the whole area.

There was also support from some people who felt a budget hotel was needed.

Jeremy Heppell planning consultant said: The Partnership for Urban South Hampshire (Push) has identified the need along the A27 for a budget hotel primarily because trade is being turned away by existing hotels in the area.

Its clearly not good for businesses if business people cant stay in the area.

The land is owned by Hampshire County Council and faces being sold off. A planning application is set to be submitted soon and if approved the development would be finished by Christmas this year.

From the Portsmouth Evening News

Beach Huts Damaged. Safety Warning

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 15:59:16 +0100

I have just had a phone call from HBCs Environment Ranger and he has requested that I re-iterate what Melody has said on the Forum. Please keep away from the Beach whether you are an owner or just wishing to have a look at the damage. They cannot guarantee anyones personal safety as more high winds are forecast and debris could be flying around and it would be foolish to go on site. 15 Huts have been damaged and securing all the debris is quite an operation.

Hampshire residents offered free insulation

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 12:56:49 +0100

I know it has been mentioned before but its worth going again. BB
===================================================
Residents in Hampshire are being given the chance to insulate their homes for free in a council-backed initiative.
Insulate Hampshire is offering cavity wall and loft insulation free for average sized properties with subsidies for larger homes.
County councillor Ken Thornber said in Hampshire 65000 homes with people over the age of 70 were not insulated.
He added that nationally cold-related illnesses costs the NHS 1 billion every year so the issue was a priority.

Something for nothing

Andy Deacon from the Energy Saving Trust said the scheme was a cost-effective way to insulate your home.
The charity was involved in the early planning of Insulate Hampshire.
He added: "Loft insulation can save 175 and cavity wall insulation 135 on your bills - these are not small-fry savings.

"Its hard to find something for nothing these days but in this case thats exactly the deal on offer for Hampshire residents."

Insulate Hampshire is a not-for-profit scheme set up by the Hampshire Senate a consortium of local councils and other agencies including the Hampshire primary care trust police and fire authorities.
The offer of free insulation does not apply to residents living in the Southampton and Portsmouth City Council areas.
The council hopes work done by the project will cut CO2 emissions by 18000 tonnes and save homes 3m every year on energy bills.

Anyone eligible must apply before for an assessment to gauge the homes suitability by the end of March 2012 and can visit the Insulate Hampshire website for more details.

BBC News.

Havant�s Public Service Plaza opens its conference facilities

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:56:25 +0100

he first full council meeting was held last week in the new main conference room at the plaza with several members of the public in attendance.

These facilities are high quality flexible and state-of-the-art with modern technology for conference/training requirements. They can now be booked by businesses and local community organisations and by the public themselves for a wide variety of uses including conferences exhibitions social events and performance.

Normal hiring times are between 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday although there is flexibility if these hours do not suit your needs. The hire charges vary depending on the room size and requirements. Please telephone the facilities team manager on (023) 9244 6646 or email him neill.payne@havant.gov.uk for a quote.

Councillor Mike Cheshire portfolio holder for marketing and development said; We are delighted with the new facilities and are proud to encourage businesses and members of the public to take advantage of them when not in use for council business.

This is an opportunity for the council to generate a form of income to help alleviate the pressures on the budgets in the current economic climate. It also enables the community to use this building to hold their meetings and events at a central location.

HBC News Release.

CHANGES TO COLLECTION DATES ACROSS THE BOROUGH

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 13:48:27 +0100

Residents in the borough will have a temporary change in the way their bins are collected during the festive period.

The collection day will change throughout the borough over a two week period.
#####################################################
NORMAL COLLECTION DAY REVISED COLLECTION DAY
Monday 26 December Tuesday 27 December
Tuesday 27 December Wednesday 28 December
Wednesday 28 December Thursday 29 December
Thursday 29 December Friday 30 December
Friday 30 December Monday 2 January 2012

Monday 2 January Tuesday 3 January
Tuesday 3 January Wednesday 4 January
Wednesday 4 January Thursday 5 January
Thursday 5 January Friday 6 January
Friday 6 January Saturday 7 January
######################################################
Residents are reminded to place their bins out by 7am on their day of collection to ensure an efficient service.

Residents who have subscribed to the Garden Waste Collection Service are also reminded that this service will be suspended between 26th December and 6th Jan

Havant Borough Council

HAYLING TO HOLLAND CHARITY CYCLE RIDE 2012

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 16:34:10 +0100

The success of moving the Ride away from Paris several years back first of all via the Loire Valley and then Le Mans led us into the idea of being even more innovative - moving the ride to another country!
Canals & castles windmills & woodland beaches & bulb fields
Holland is made for cycling and is well equipped with cycle paths and the network reaches all parts of the country. The cycling surface quality is good and it is possible (if wanted) to cycle at speed for considerable distances. Many cycle teams will come flying past - can you keep up with them?! The cycle ways come with their own sets of rules and systems - including traffic signals/lights tunnels and lanes.
As with last year the rider will have the choice of longer and shorter routes on some of the days. We leave Hayling Island by coach during the afternoon of Sunday 8th of July with our bikes securely stored in a lorry arriving in Harwich where we pick up our bikes for storage on the overnight comfortable Stena ferry. We arrive in Holland on Monday morning 9th July with five days of fascinating fully supported cycling ahead of us.
The ride starts at Hook (Hoek van Holland) and then goes up the coast to Haarlem. The next days are to Amsterdam Amersfoort Dordrecht and back to Hook with the last day being the fancy dress day as usual although this time perhaps with a bit of a hangover from the party in Dordrecht!

Strike action - possible disruption to public services

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 16:29:53 +0100

Along with other local authorities across the country East Hampshire District Council and Havant Borough Council have been informed by the trade unions Unison and Unite that it is their intention to take industrial action over changes to the Local Government Pension Scheme.

The first national strike day is planned for Wednesday 30th November. While it is not possible to judge exactly what impact the strike may have on both councils services every action will be taken to keep any disruption to a minimum.

Both councils do not anticipate any major disruption to key services however there may be a possible disruption to refuse collection services in the Borough of Havant on the day of strike action.

Residents of the Borough of Havant are advised to put out their recycling bin as normal on their collection day. Should the bin not be collected residents are to continue to put out their recycling bin for collection each morning by 7.00 am until the end of this week.

If their bin has not been collected by the end of the day - Friday 2nd December 2011 residents should return their bin to within their properties and put it out for the next scheduled recycling collection. Domestic waste will be collected.

Refuse collection in East Hampshire will be unaffected

Staff across both authorities are expected to take part in the strike action but exact numbers are not known as staff do not have to declare their involvement. Plans to cover services affected have been put into place to ensure business continuity.

Gill Kneller Executive Director across both authorities said; We recognise that pickets are normally no more than 6 people however in practice there are more unions expected to join the strike so this may change.

We have made plans where possible using the information provided to us by the union representatives and will continue to work closely with them.

Staff have been helpful in letting us know their availability to work on the 30th November which has assisted us to plan service delivery to residents for the one day of strike action.

Staff who take strike action will not be paid for that day.

RNLI branch raises cash for Hayling Island station.

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 15:17:01 +0100

The Manhood Branch of the RNLI have again been working hard to raise vital funds for the Selsey and Hayling Island lifeboat stations.

A barn dance attended by 60 people was held and instructed by a professional caller who managed to keep control over the noisy revellers.

A delicious ploughmans supper was provided for all and in the course of the evening more than 800 was raised.

The annual autumn lunch was held at Itchenor Memorial Hall on November 1. This year the theme was Italian.

The hall was decorated in the Italian colours each table having a plant with two flags adding to the attractive d�cor.

The lunch of antipasti followed by spaghetti tetrazzini was delightfully ended with a frangipani tart generously donated by Lindas Pantry. Some said it was the best ever luncheon.

Branch secretary Gillian Rokison said: Well done and congratulations to Kim Henshaw and her team for providing another successful occasion.

Many thanks also to the contributors to the raffle including Munneries of East Wittering. Their lovely fruit basket and other donations helped to raise 182 10.

The overall result of the day was 921.57 for our lifeboat stations. Thank you everyone for your support.

The branchs last event will be the bridge and tea at West Wittering Memorial Hall on November 30. Tables can be booked through Annie Creek on 01243 512900.

COPP Heroes News

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 11:17:46 +0100

The COPP Heroes Memorial
Fund is attracting good support
We are still working hard at fundraising
and are conscious of the
need to reach our objective during
2012. There have been some very
generous donations especially
from COPPists and other servicemen
and their relatives and we
are now well over halfway towards
achieving our target of 30000

See all here:
http://www.hayling.co.uk/COPPNEWS1.pdf

Top crime authors join top crime experts at CSI Portsmouth on Saturday 5 November

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 06:55:42 +0100

Tickets are still on sale for CSI Portsmouth on Saturday 5 November when top crime authors including Hayling Islands Pauline Rowson joins crime authors Mark Billingham John Harvey Michael Ridpath and experts from the Crime Scene Investigation team and Fingerprinting Bureau of Hampshire Constabulary and forensic psychologists to discuss crime fiction and fact in a lively debate at John Pounds Centre Portsea on Saturday 5 November.

In addition to being on the main panel event for CSI Portsmouth which takes place from 2pm to 5pm local crime author Pauline Rowson from Hayling Island author of the DI Andy Horton Marine Mystery Crime Novels set in the Solent area will be giving a talk in the morning on Writing A Crime Novel. Other talks include fingerprinting and true crime.

There will be a chance for delegates to see how the fingerprinting bureau works and have their fingerprints taken as well as talk to the crime authors to find out how they come up with their intricate plots and research their novels.

Tickets are on sale from the Box Office + 44 (0)23 9268 8685 and cost 10 for the day which includes 3 off the price of a book bought at the event.

More information can be found at www.rowmark.co.uk

Hayling Island Residents Association AGM

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:30:46 +0100

David Willetts MP addressed the Hayling Island Residents Associations AGM on 21 October. Amongst other topics he was asked to comment and answer questions on the Save Hayling Petition which has now raised over 4000 signatures; it will be submitted to Havant Borough Council on 31 October at 12 noon.

Although there is a need for housing and in particular affordable housing for young people the Association is very worried and concerned over the Councils proposed large-scale building development plans for Hayling Island.

I understand the strong feelings that reflect the high number of signatures supporting this Petition. However the Council have 5000 people on their housing waiting list and I see many young people in my surgery who cannot find anywhere to live in the Borough. There is a desperate shortage of accommodation said David Willetts MP.

Paul Fisher Chairman of the Association emphasised that: There is an urgent need for a comprehensive review of the Councils housing policy for Hayling. The proposed developments simply do not meet the Islands needs for appropriate and suitable housing. This is a case of building for buildings sake with financial gain the only winner.

Concern was also expressed during the meeting on Haylings ageing infrastructure that cannot support further building on the scale proposed particularly roads health care schools and policing all of which are currently in need of major investment or are already stretched.

The Residents Association together with the Hayling Island Community Board will formally submit the Petition to Havant Borough Council on 31st October at the Public Service Plaza (Civic Centre) at 12 noon. There will also be a large group of supporters assembling at Havant Bus Station before proceeding to the Plaza.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Planned housing estates on Hayling Island

All Hayling residents will be affected if the proposed planning is passed for up to 160 new houses and flats between Goldring Close and Hawthorne Grove as well as two other larger greenfield estates in South Hayling. It is proposed to have just one vehicle entrance from this estate through Beech Grove to Tournebury Lane and onto the main road by the Co-op with another estate off St Marys Road also feeding into the same junction. In total 600 houses are in the planning for Hayling not taking into account windfall and infilling developments.

***

Advance advisory & invitation

Media are invited to attend the presentation of the Petition to Havant Borough Council at 12 noon on 31 October. The Council official(s) who will be present to receive the Petition is subject to final confirmation.

***
Interview availability

Representatives of both the Hayling Island Residents Association and the Hayling Island Community Board will be available for interview prior to and on the day of the presentation of the Petition.

David Willetts attending the HIRA AGM

Fri, 07 Oct 2011 14:22:56 +0100

The cabinet minister and local MP is attending the AGM on Friday 21st October.
Leah Turner will also make a presentation about the Hayling for St George current grant application campaign and concert next April. on the Plaza at Eastoke Corner.

Ale-ing Fest 2011

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 18:27:33 +0100

ATTENTION ALL ALE FANS the Ale-ing Fest is coming the doors will be opening at the Community Centre this year on the 7th and 8th October for what is hoped to be our best ever event.

This year I have dropped (kicked) in some themed rugby ales with the likes of Play On from Rugby of Warwickshire a must Try! and Scrum Down from York brewery of Yorkshire it is brewed especially for the World Cup and has a chocolatey up and over finish!! So I hope you get Converted. Also take a Side step to 7 Pointer from our very own Havant Brewery but youll need to man up to tackle that one at a crunching 7% abv. I hope you can tackle all of them.

This year Shep Woolleys back on Friday evening and will be joined by Champion Fiddler Garry Blakley playing a mixture of World Folk Songs 50s 60s hits as well as jigs and reels. Shsssh! Saturday afternoon remains quite but all is not lost as The Cheese Doctors will be raising the roof on Saturday night with all their old favourites

Ticket prices are again held for a third year at 7.50 for the advanced ticket for the evening sessions and 5.00 for the afternoon session full ticketing details are available on our web site www.ale-ingfest.co.uk. Tickets will be available for the Community Centre and our other ticket outlets or you can try the Ticket Hotline on 02392 469159.

This year I am hoping we can enjoy the improved atmosphere created by the Community Centres new ceiling canopy where funds from last years Ale-ing Fest contributed towards its purchase and installation the new look is proving to be a popular new addition to the centre for their social events we hope you will enjoy it too.

This event is supported by many local people and businesses whose contribution makes this event the success it is today. Details of our supporters will appear on our website in due course. If you wish to be involved in this support of the event please ring Kathy Fischer on 02392 468067 for further details.

Holding the Ale-ing Fest at the Community Centre not only promotes and utilises an important community asset but the Centre benefits from increased revenue from the general use and from additional sales by non-beer drinkers across the in house bar. Whilst we endeavour to produce accurate information about the ales available at the festival some ales previously advertised may not be available due to circumstances beyond our control.

Rod Carter
Ale-ing Fest Event Organiser
07740 433624

Help for Winter warming

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:42:05 +0100

Insulate Hampshire:
Saving you money and keeping you warm

Havant Borough Council is working in partnership with Hampshire County Council and the other Hampshire District Councils to deliver Insulate Hampshire.

It offers cavity wall insulation for 75 for at least the first 5000 householders to sign up to the scheme and will be 99 after that; and loft insulation is available from 99* where residents currently have less than 60mm or from 49* if residents have some but would like to top up existing loft insulation with rolls of DIY insulation. This is free for those over 70 and on certain benefits.
Furthermore the scheme can direct residents to other services such as home and fire safety and can even offer advice around installing solar panels.
There will be some targeted marketing in some areas across the borough although this will not start until Spring 2012. No house will be called upon unless it has received a letter to advise the resident that representatives will be in the area first. Homeowners will also have the option to opt out of an energy adviser visiting their home beforehand.
Insulate Hampshire Energy Advisors will always carry identification and wear branded orange uniforms. However if residents are unsure about the person at their door they can call the Insulate Hampshire team on 0800 952 0037 or the Hampshire Trading Standards Quick Response Team on 01962 833 666 between 9am-5pm.
Residents are able to register their interest in the scheme by contacting the Insulate Hampshire team by calling 0800 952 0037 emailing enquiries@insulatehampshire.co.uk or visiting http://www.insulatehampshire.co.uk.

If you would like to explore areas to promote this scheme to increase take up of insulation in your areas or if you would like referral cards and posters please let Pennie Brown know.

*Loft Insulation at 99 (for professional installation) and DIY rolls of loft insulation are based on a free technical survey of an average 3 bedroom semi detached property and will be subject to an excess meterage charge for larger loft spaces.

Hayling Paramedic spared jail over theft

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 11:34:54 +0100

By Ben Mitchell (Independant)

A paramedic has avoided a prison sentence for stealing 100 from an elderly woman who died a few days later police said today.

Carl Brzakalik 52 formerly of Kings Road Hayling Island appeared in court on Tuesday August 16 charged with theft.

A Hampshire Police spokesman said Brzakalik attended the home of 89-year-old Muriel Quintin in Emsworth after she suffered a fall on July 24 and needed hospital treatment.

He stole a wallet which had belonged to the pensioners deceased husband the spokesman said.

The theft was reported to police who investigated the circumstances after the wallet with 100 in cash was found at the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth later the same day.

Brzakalik was arrested on Tuesday August 2 on suspicion of theft questioned by detectives and charged a week later on Tuesday August 9.

He admitted theft in court and received a 14-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months the police spokesman said.

He was ordered to complete 100 hours unpaid work pay 100 in compensation to the estate of his victim and pay 85 in court costs.

Mrs Quintin died on August 4.

Speaking after the court case her niece Karen Mazlum said: "These events have been terribly upsetting for the whole family while we were trying to cope with such a distressing situation already.

"We would have never expected someone to steal from a woman in the final days of her life.

"This theft could not have come at a worse time for Muriel plus family and friends who loved her and cherish the memories of our lives together.

"Muriels family wish to thank the police for securing the conviction and for handling the case sensitively."

Detective Constable Lee Parker of Portsmouth CID said: "This was a disgraceful betrayal of trust by someone in whom Mrs Quintin should have had complete confidence.

"Mr Brzakalik was at her home to provide a professional service during a potentially life-threatening situation.

"Instead this man abused his responsible position to steal from a vulnerable patient in his care.

"Police treat allegations of this nature with the utmost seriousness and will work with the emergency services to uncover crimes committed at the expense of patients.

"Hampshire Constabulary would like to thank the South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) and staff at the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Cosham for their considerable co-operation and assistance in bringing this case to court swiftly."

Family Fun Day

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 08:42:24 +0100

Hayling Island Businessmens Club brings you a Family Fun Day at Northney Farm.

From 1pm till 5pm on Saturday 17th September come along and enjoy Stalls & games fair rides kids karaoke tractor rides face painting trampolines go-kart rides pimms tent with soft drinks donkey rides hamburgers & hot dogs and more.

We also have first responders vehicle fire engine and CCTV van on-site together with some local classic cars to see.

Ale-ing Fest

Sat, 10 Sep 2011 09:34:38 +0100

ATTENTION ALL ALE FANS the Ale-ing Fest is coming the doors will be opening at the Community Centre this year on the 7th and 8th October for what is hoped to be our best ever event.

This year I have dropped (kicked) in some themed rugby ales with the likes of Splendid Tackle from Skinners of Cornwall a must Try! and Legends Ale from Brains of Cardiff it is brewed with two hop varieties from all the way down under!! So I hope you get converted. Also take a side step to 7 Pointer from our very own Havant Brewery but youll need to man up to tackle that one at a whooping 7% abv.

This year Shep Woolleys back on Friday evening and will be joined by Champion Fiddler Garry Blakley playing a mixture of World Folk Songs 50s 60s hits as well as jigs and reels. Shsssh! Saturday afternoon remains quite but all is not lost as The Cheese Doctors will be raising the roof on Saturday night with all their old favourites

Ticket prices are again held for a third year at 7.50 for the advanced ticket for the evening sessions and 5.00 for the afternoon session full ticketing details are available on our web site www.ale-ingfest.co.uk. Tickets will be available for the Community Centre and our other ticket outlets or you can try the Ticket Hotline on 02392 469159.

This year I am hoping we can enjoy the improved atmosphere created by the Community Centres new ceiling canopy where funds from last years Ale-ing Fest contributed towards its purchase and installation the new look is proving to be a popular new addition to the centre for their social events we hope you will enjoy it too.

This event is supported by many local people and businesses whose contribution makes this event the success it is today. Details of our supporters will appear on our website in due course. If you wish to be involved in this support of the event please ring Kathy Fischer on 02392 468067 for further details.

Holding the Ale-ing Fest at the Community Centre not only promotes and utilises an important community asset but the Centre benefits from increased revenue from the general use and from additional sales by non-beer drinkers across the in house bar.

Rod Carter
Ale-ing Fest Event Organiser
07740 433624

Chichester Harbour Oak Tree Project

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 10:36:13 +0100

To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the formation of the Chichester Harbour Conservancy there is a plan to plant 40 young oak trees around the harbour. HIRA has been invited to apply for a tree or trees which are provided free of charge and we are actively looking for suitable sites. We are in touch with HBCs arborculturalist the Friends of Hayling Trees (now unfortunately effectively defunct although resurrection plans are under way!) and HCCs Countryside Ranger. Areas with restricted access such as Verner Common and Gutner point may be best for the development of a young tree hence the involvement of Hampshire County Council who own and look after much of these areas. The leaflet describing the scheme can be found at http://www.conservancy.co.uk/assets/assets/40%20oaks%20leaflet.pdf. Well keep you informed of progress but if you have any good ideas about a suitable location please pm on the Forum.

Plane Emergency Lands on Hayling Island

Sat, 03 Sep 2011 14:51:14 +0100

A large number of emergency vehicles have come on to the Island from surrounding areas to attend what is being reported as a aircraft crash.

Eye-witnesses have described a small private plane possibly a biplane flying erratically and setting down suddenly in the area of Tournerbury Woods and Golf Course.

Early reports are that the plan was forced to make an emergency landing and set down safely.

Further details are not known at this time.

Operation Copford two men die in road traffic collision on Hayling Island

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 18:17:01 +0100

Police are appealing for information following a collision on Hayling Island in which two men died.

Officers were called around 3.20pm to reports that a car had come off the road and overturned on West Lane.

The road was closed between Daw Lane and Brights Lane and is likely to remain closed for a number of hours.

Two men in the vehicle suffered serious injuries and were taken by ambulance to the Queen Alexandra Hospital Cosham where they were pronounced dead.

Anyone with information or who witnessed the collision is asked to contact the Fratton Roads Policing unit on 101 quoting Operation Copford. You can also call the anonymous Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.

The Hayling Billy + 50 years

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 08:45:55 +0100

I am very happy to announce that our website has now been launched and can be seen here.

http://www.haylingbilly50.co.uk

The website is a window into the project which has the following aims:
1. To record and celebrate the railway that once served the Hayling Island Community so well.
2. To find and record railway artifacts in private and public ownership.
3. To secure and restore the semaphore signal on the southern approach to railway bridge.
4. To improve access for the disabled to the Hayling Billy Trail (the old railway alignment).
5. To provide a view point for the disabled overlooking the Oysterbeds and Langstone Harbour.
6. To set up events for 2013 50 years since the closure of the line.

The project recently was given support by the Haylings Best committee.

News from Peter Drury

Coastal communities to receive a multi-million pound boost

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 13:06:14 +0100

Coastal communities across the United Kingdom will receive a multi-million pound boost each year from a new Coastal Communities Fund the Chancellor and Chief Secretary to the Treasury announced today.

This new fund will be financed by the Government through the allocation of funding equivalent to 50 per cent of the revenues from the Crown Estates marine activities.

This new fund is designed to support the economic development of coastal communities and will support a wide range of projects including those that support charities the environment education and health.

Examples could include support for developing renewable energy improving skills or environmental safeguarding or improvement.

The fund will be linked to the revenues that are raised by the Crown Estates marine activities each year. For example in April 2012 there will be 23.7 million available in the Coastal Communities Fund this is based on a 50 per cent share of the 47.4 million revenue raised by the Crown Estates marine activities in 2010-11.

For each country of the UK the funds available will be directly linked to the revenues raised by the Crown Estates marine activities from that area with separate funding for England Wales Northern Ireland the Highlands and Islands and the rest of Scotland.

The fund will be available on a bid basis and the Government is in discussion with the Big Fund part of the Big Lottery Fund about the detailed terms on which they could deliver the funds to communities.

The Big Lotterys Big Fund has a wealth of experience and expertise in delivering funding and is well placed to distribute Coastal Communities Funding on behalf of the Government. The Government will also liaise with the devolved administrations in Scotland Wales and Northern Ireland.

The Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne said:

This new funding shows that the Government is committed to supporting coastal communities and ensuring that they benefit from the revenue that our coasts and the Crown Estate produce.

I know that coastal communities play a vital role in wellbeing of the whole country and I am glad that we can provide support for them through this new fund and ensure that they continue to benefit the whole of the UK.

Speaking from Stornoway the Chief Secretary Danny Alexander said:

I am delighted to announce a new multi-million pound fund that will support coastal communities across the UK. Coastal Communities share a strong sense of place and it is only fair that we share the Crown Estates revenues equally.

We welcome innovative bids from charities businesses social enterprises and local organisations which support the economic development of the community.

Speaking from Thanet Economic Secretary Justine Greening said:

Its great to be here to see how a significant part of the Crown Estates marine activity which already contributes to the local economy will play a role in the creation of this new fund. Every coastal community in the UK will have the chance to bid for a share to help them with projects that will have a real and lasting impact on the local economy.

The Fund will open for business in April 2012. Further details on how to apply to the Fund will be published shortly.

�Combined Operations� at the Hayling Seaside Railway.

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:19:07 +0100

During the school holidays on Tuesday 30th August volunteers at the Hayling Seaside Railway will be joining forces with members of 8 Flight Hampshire and Isle of Wight Army Cadet Force to raise money for the Help for Heroes service charity.

The event is being organised by 14 year old Harry Gatehouse a pupil at Prospect High School Havant who is a junior volunteer at the Hayling Railway and an active Army Cadet. On the day all takings on the Seaside Railway will be donated directly to Help for Heroes while Cadets will be on hand in full uniform to meet and greet passengers and help raise raise further funds for the charity.

Trains on the one mile narrow gauge railway along Hayling Island seafront start at 11am from Beachlands station which is behind the roller coaster at Funland Amusement Park and run every 45 minutes to the seaside village of Eastoke Corner via Mengham Road Halt with the last round trip at 5pm. For more information visit the Hayling Seaside Railway website at http://www.haylingseasiderailway.com/

Scarecrow Festival Winners Announced

Sat, 06 Aug 2011 15:09:18 +0100

The winners of the 2011 Hayling Island Scarecrow Festival were announced at 3pm on Saturday at Hayling Carnival.

Marie Telford who chairs the Scarecrow Festival Committee commented "that the standard of entries has yet again surpassed expectations" and thanked all the residents and businesses who have made scarecrow figures this year. Judging took place on the second day of the Festival and this year the judges were Councillors Jackie Branson Caren Tarrant and Brendan Gibb-Gray

The Scarecrow Festival continues for another week until Sunday 14th August so there is still plenty of time to come and visit Hayling Island and see the figures dotted around the island and see which are this years winners.

The Awards were announced as follows

*Comical*
1st No. 21 A Meer Scarecrow
2nd No. 78 Scare de Crow
3rd No. 95 Tea For Two

*Topical*
1st No. 44 Litter Man
2nd No. 10 Gis A Job
3rd No. 14 Retirement Home Wanted

*Film & Theatre*
1st No. 15 Gullivers Travels
2nd No. 43 Mary Poppins
3rd No. 19 Gullivers Island

*Historical*
1st No. 48 Abraham Lincoln
2nd No. 98 Henry The Eighth
3rd No. 9 Anthony & Cleopatra

The Peoples Choice award is decided by ballots forms handed in by people taking the Scarecrow Trail or by text voting.

It will be announced along with the Scarecrow Trail Prize Draw winner at Playing On The Plaza Eastoke Corner on Sunday August 21st.

Local business man cycling to Cambodia to raise funds for Children

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 14:18:50 +0100

My Challenge: I ride on my push bike from Ho Chi Minh City(Saigon) to Angkor Wat (Cambodia) this November a bloomin long way
And Your Challenge: support my charity Cash for Kids by donating shed loads via Just Giving think how good and righteous youll feel!
Please help me to meet my Challenge of raising 2400 which will be donated to the Wave 105 FM Cash for Kids charity whose trustees donate money to Barnados (www.barnardos.org.uk) who play a massive role in supporting young adults leaving care.