Red Funnel Customer Magazine

School’s out!

Weird and wonderful Wight

Issue 2 July/August/September 2007

Win a VIP family

day out at The Isle of Wight

Zoo

SpeedJunkiesMeet the movers and shakers behind this summer’s all-action events

On the case with TV’s Trisha, Red Funnel news, Island events and more...Plus

Great ideas for the summer holidays

Days out with a difference

Off icial Skincare Sponsor Skandia Cowes Week 2007

lizearle.com 01983 813913

Come and visit us on The Parade in Cowes or at our shop, Union inRyde to stock up on all of your skincare essentials, learn more fromour team about sun protection or pick up some pampering treats.

Union22 Union Street RydeIsle of Wight PO33 2DT Mon - Sat 9.30am - 5.30pm

Skandia Cowes WeekThe ParadeCowes Isle of WightSat 4th Aug - Sat 11th Aug10.00am - 8.00pm

skandia advert:A4 connect mag advert 7/4/07 3:09 PM Page 1

Welcome to the second issue of Connect – the new onboard magazine for all Red Funnel customers

A very warm welcome to this latest edition

of Connect which is packed to bursting

with fun things to see and do on the Isle

of Wight over the summer. Catch up

with the movers and shakers behind this

summer’s all-action events, find out about

life behind the scenes at the Isle of Wight

Zoo and read all about TV’s Trisha’s hot

spots. From alternative days out to holiday

activities for kids, we’ve got it covered.

Red Funnel also has its own big

news story with the recent sale of

the Company to Prudential under its

investment arm Infracapital Partners LP;

hear about what this means for the

future. And while you’re sitting back and

enjoying your crossing with us today,

don’t forget to have a go at our puzzle

pages where we have some great prizes

up for grabs.

We look forward to welcoming you

onboard again soon.

Tom Docherty

Managing Director

Red Funnel

04 Red Funnel news Red Funnel Worldwide Holidays opens for business.

06 Speed junkies The key players behind this summer’s big sporting events.

10 School’s out! Hands-on fun across the Island for children.

12 A walk on the wild side A day in the life of Isle of Wight zookeeper Lisa Britton.

14 Weird and wonderful Wight Three unusual ways to make you look at the Island in a whole different light.

16 What’s on? Great ideas for summer days and nights.

18 Puzzle pages Prize crossword, sudoku and puzzles galore to keep the kids and adults occupied!

In this issue of Connect win…

A VIP family visit to the award-winning Isle of Wight Zoosee page 13

A ‘Weekender’ travel bagsee page 18

A month’s supply of ice cream!see page 19

win

Welcome/Contents Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 03

Copyright 2007 © Southampton, South of England and Isle of Wight Royal Mail Steam Packet Company Limited trading as Red Funnel Group. All rights reserved. Nothing in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or part without the express written permission of the publishers. We welcome comments, contributions, photographs, stories etc.

IMPORTANT NOTICE We have done our best to ensure that all information is correct and accurate, but would emphasise that we, the publishers, accept no responsibility for any mistake or omissions. Please note that the opinions expressed in the articles are strictly those of the authors. All advertisers have submitted their own copy, therefore the publishers cannot accept any responsibility for disputes between advertisers and their customers.

ADVERTISING WITH US If you are interested in the advertising opportunities in this publication or our range of outdoor opportunities please contact our Media Sales Team on 023 8024 8547 or email advertising@redfunnel.co.uk

This magazine is CarbonNeutral. To find out more visit www.carbonneutral.comPrinted on paper which is 75% recycled, 25% Forest Stewardship Council Certified

LA86

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7/07

Isle of Wight –

the brightest place in Britainwww.redfunnel.co.uk 0844 844 9988

Fun family events

every day in August

at CarisbrookeCastle!

From treasure hunts to jousting knights, there’s something for everyone at Carisbrooke Castle this summer:

The Great Castle Treasure Hunt Everyday,Wed 1 – Fri 24 August Follow the clues on your free treasure map and find the hiddentreasure chest for your golden key, hand it in to receive your prize.

Heroes and Villains Sun 5 & Mon 6 August Join us for a weekend of your favourite heroes and villains; dress upand take part in plays, circus workshops and have-a-go archery.

The Creative Castle Sun 12 & Mon 13 August Children will love creating their own delightful characters by decorating princess and wizard hats, shields, masks, crowns and tiaras at this magical castle.

The Worst Days out in History! Sun 19 & Mon 20 August Experience a horrible weekend out as you witness the smelliest and most gruesome aspects of history.

Grand Medieval Joust Sat 25 – Mon 27 August Watch in awe as fearless knights collide at speeds of up to 60mph in this real life battle, laugh at the antics of Peterkin the fool and join a jester workshop.

Carisbrooke Castle, Isle of Wight 10am – 5pm

Call 01983 522107 for details or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk

Days out worth talking about.

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Red Funnel newsRed Funnel announces major investment in IT

Over the next 18 months, Red Funnel is investing over £2m in information technology, starting with a new ticketing and reservation system for 2008 bookings. The new system, supplied by Hogia of Finland, will increase Red Funnel’s product portfolio and enable more flexible ticketing and fare options for the travel trade, business partners and the public.

Steam Coffee Company launches loyalty scheme

Steam Coffee Company is launching a new loyalty card scheme to reward regular customers. Simply buy 10 hot drinks and receive a free hot beverage of your choice. Steam outlets are located on all vehicle ferries, in West Cowes, and from August two more outlets will be opening in the Southampton terminals. Serving a range of premium coffees

made from the finest roasted beans and a selection of indulgent cakes and delicious pastries, why not treat yourself? Additionally, our shore based outlets will be serving a range of fresh sandwiches and tasty paninis.

04 Red Funnel news Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk Red Funnel news Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 05

Red Funnel secures long-term future

Red Funnel’s institutional

shareholders have sold

their investment in the

Company to Infracapital

Partners LP – the

infrastructure fund of the

Prudential Group.

Tom Docherty, Red Funnel’s

Managing Director discusses the future.

Why did your institutional shareholders sell?

We were approached by a number of parties

after announcing plans to refinance the business.

It’s like remortgaging your home – borrowing

money at a cheaper, more competitive rate.

The culture and aspirations of Infracapital

Partners LP are extremely compatible with our

own and they were the chosen bidder. With a

renewed focus on our long-term future, this

is extremely good news for the business, its

customers and the communities of the Isle of

Wight and Southampton.

What are the plans for the future?

Given the essential nature of the infrastructure

owned and operated by Red Funnel, the

continuing provision of a reliable high quality

service to commuters and other ferry passengers

between the Isle of Wight and Southampton is

central to the long term vision.

Will fares go up as result of the sale?

No, our pricing structure will continue to be

reviewed annually. It allows for a reasonable

return on investment and reflects the costs of

operating a high quality, high frequency service

which runs throughout the year. We will continue

to offer year round, attractive, value for money

fares which encourage customers to book online

and in advance, particularly at peak times.

Regular customers know that the business is

highly seasonal and the summer traffic helps

secure the service through the winter and

overnight when very few people are travelling.

We have come under some criticism for our fares

but unlike some other UK short sea routes we are

not subsidised in any way and we have invested

heavily in our fleet and facilities.

Despite huge increases in fuel and insurance

costs, the average Hi-Speed season ticket has

risen less than inflation, and is cheaper now than

it was in 1991. Similarly, our lead-in vehicle rates

are the same as they were in the mid-1990s.

What are the benefits for customers?

As long-term stable owners, the Prudential

can only be good news for our business and

customers. Customers will continue to see

‘added value’ improvements in our products

and services such as the recently introduced

ReFuel food concept and the Steam Coffee

Company and Bar1861 brands.

In recent years we have built Red Jet 4,

refurbished Red Jet 3, stretched our vehicle

ferries and increased the frequency of our

services. We will now be able to build on our

programme of investment, introducing new

flexible ticketing and booking systems for

example, and renewing the entire fleet over

the next 30 years.

For the full interview please visit

www.redfunnel.co.uk/infracapitalTaking you further…

New season ticket designRed Funnel Island Club members will shortly be receiving a new season ticket card, which has been redesigned with a sleek, contemporary look. Members will continue to enjoy discounts at Steam Coffee Company outlets and Refuel, as well as at a selection of restaurants, bars and clothing stores in both Cowes and Southampton. For more information on how you could save with Island Club membership visit www.islandclub.co.uk

T O

Cowes

Cancun

T r av e l a G e N C Y

now open

Red Funnel’s newest venture in Cowes is a travel agency looking to take you from Cowes to Canada, Crete, Cancun and beyond!Situated in The Arcade in Cowes, Red Funnel Worldwide Holidays has brought a whole new world of travel to Isle of Wight residents since opening in mid-July, and for one lucky Islander a £2000 holiday of a lifetime.

A member of the Global Travel Group, Red Funnel Worldwide Holidays has access to thousands of deals across the Global Travel network.

As the only travel agent in Cowes, Red Funnel Wordwide Holidays has opened up a whole world of possibilities for residents, and to celebrate is offering free return ferry travel with bookings made before the end of August 2007 which include an overnight stay.

Providing long haul and short haul breaks, romantic city getaways, cruise packages and much more, Red Funnel Worldwide’s holidays come with the reassurance of ATOL and Global Travel Group protection.

To celebrate the opening of Red Funnel Worldwide, Isle of Wight County Press readers were invited to write a travel review of a favourite destination beginning with the same letter as their home town or village. Run in partnership with the County Press, Debby Robinson of Ventnor, won a £2000 holiday, and her review will be seen on adverts all over the Island.

The Red Funnel Worldwide Holidays shop has been designed to provide customers with a relaxed and welcoming setting in which to shop or browse for inspiration.

A team of experienced travel consultants are on hand to help customers explore their travel options with a complementary hot beverage from Steam Coffee Company next door.

Branch Manager Ruth Morgan-Owen, who brings 20 years of travel industry experience to the development and running of the agency, explains: “Red Funnel Worldwide offered me the opportunity to get involved in a new business from the start. I felt there was a need for a travel agency which could provide a stylish yet friendly environment in which to shop, whilst still providing a full range of competitively priced and inspirational holidays”.

Tel: 01983 539 203 www.redfunnelworldwide.com

Visit the Arcade in Cowes

Taking you further

T O

O p e n i n g

14 July

Rome

Ryde

bob check black edges to cards

Call 01983 539 203Taking you furtherwww.redfunnelworldwide.comVisit the Arcade in Cowes

SpeedJunkiesSkandia Cowes Week, Powerboat P1, the White Air Festival… The Isle of Wight is buzzing with international sport at this time of year. Connect talks to the movers and shakers behind this summer’s all action events

What are the greatest challenges of organising Skandia Cowes Week? The sheer scale of the event. With over 1,000 boats, 8,500 competitors and 35 separate classes there are a lot of things to manage. In addition, we’re also responsible for coordinating shore-side activities where 100,000 spectators enjoy the festival each year.

The greatest challenge is trying to keep as many of our competitors as possible happy at all times. This is sometimes difficult to manage and occasionally impossible or, for the sake of the majority, impossible!

How do you logistically manage such a huge event? We have a great team – small but dedicated and highly skilled. As Cowes Week approaches it increases dramatically with many of our temporary staff loyal ‘repeats’ from previous years.

What has been your most hairy moment? Two years ago, new software that we had commissioned to help race officers plan the courses each day was delivered so late that the designer of the programme was still trying to make it work properly the evening before racing started.

On another occasion, our race officers misjudged how fast the multihulls were going to complete their course and the leading boats from the fleet came through the finish line just as the XODs (the last class to start) were getting underway – that was not in our risk assessment!

How much is the event’s success down to good weather? Obviously good weather helps enormously, but as long as there is decent, sailable breeze then all is well. The worst scenario would be rain and no wind, but with so much going on even a couple of grotty days do little to dampen enthusiasm.

What have been your most memorable moments of Skandia Cowes Week? The best moments of each year’s regatta are when I stand outside the regatta centre and see the happy smiling faces of contented competitors who have just enjoyed a great day of racing.

What do you think Skandia Cowes Week brings to the Isle of Wight’s local economy?Cowes Week brings tens of millions to the economy of the Island. It is over five years since the last economic impact survey was done but even then it was estimated that the event brought over £60 million to the Island in both direct and indirect income.

How can businesses find out more about becoming associated with Skandia Cowes Week? We are always keen to talk to businesses, especially local ones. Visit www.skandiacowesweek.co.uk for full details.

What are the greatest challenges of organising Powerboat P1? Powerboat racing was once considered a niche sport, a preserve of the ultra rich. Powerboat P1 has been designed to overcome these barriers, offering greater accessibility to the sport for both spectators and competitors. This in turn has increased competition and heightened the commercial appeal of offshore powerboat racing.

With the success of the P1 World Championship has come the difficulty of finding suitable locations. As well as booking up hundreds of hotel rooms, we also need space for boats and their trailers, cranes, wet and dry pits, a tented village, live music stage and exhibition zones. Another big challenge is adapting to the weather and sea conditions but unfortunately we can do nothing to influence these except of course, pray!

The event is part of Cowes Powerboat Festival. What can visitors to the festival expect to see and do? Centred around world class powerboat racing and events, the Powerboat P1 World Championship kicks off with the traditional round the island race on Friday, with the conclusion to the Grand Prix weekend taking place on Sunday when the winners of the British Grand Prix will be decided.

Supporting the Powerboat P1 Grand Prix of the Sea will be an exciting line-up of entertainment both on and off the water including an action-packed support race and activities on the shore.

How do you maintain the safety of those who compete?Any motor sport presents potentially risky situations and Powerboat P1 is no exception. We place a high emphasis on the safety of both our competitors and spectators. Safety rules are firmly enforced.

What have been the most memorable moments of Powerboat P1? Watching the start of the first race of this season in Malta and reflecting that when we took over the World Championship in 2002 we had just a handful of boats and little media interest.

This season we performed to a worldwide TV audience in a top European location with an international field of 18 boats. It felt like all our hard work to build P1 had finally been recognised.

What do you think Powerboat P1 brings to The Isle of Wight’s local economy? Every year the event sees tens of thousands of fans flock to the Island’s shores along with an international line-up of competing teams, sponsors and media, which naturally increases the potential for tourism growth on the island and in the surrounding areas. It is also an excellent way for the Isle of Wight to promote itself worldwide.

How can businesses find out more about becoming associated with Powerboat P1? Powerboat P1 is the fastest growing motor sport in Europe. As such, it offers sponsors and partners an ideal platform to promote their brands and services at a multi-national level. For more information on hospitality and partnership opportunities call the sales and marketing team on 020 7101 7600 or visit www.powerboatp1.com

What are the greatest challenges of organising White Air?Funding the festival due to its very fast expansion and large number of sports, as well as predicting the problems that will occur each year, and finding ongoing solutions.

Logistically, how do you manage such a huge event?By myself for the majority of the year! I have the help of over 100 staff and race crews during the set-up and festival period itself.

What has been your most hairy moment?We’ve been lucky that we haven’t had many hairy moments although 100mph winds one year nearly blew our party marquee over and tore another clean apart!

How much of the event’s success is down to good weather?It’s more down to good planning. There are so many events going on during White Air – from arts and music to extreme sports taster sessions that whatever the weather, there’s plenty of entertainment on offer. As White Air is a summer event, there’s a reasonable chance of good weather and with that we can offer more outdoor entertainment. We have an outdoor music stage and Red Arrows displays this year so we are hoping for clear sunny days. That said, we’d also like there to be plenty of wind for the World Championship Windsurfing.

What has been your most memorable moment at White Air?After not competing for ten years and simply doing sport for fun, last year I won the Pro Kite Surfing Championship. To become the 06/07 UK champion at my own event was quite something!

What do you think White Air brings to The Isle of Wight’s local economy?White Air will host 35,000 spectators at the main village and 70,000 during the seven-day festival. It attracts a great deal of media coverage and promotes the natural outdoor resources that the Island has to offer.

How can businesses find out more about becoming associated with White Air? White Air is the biggest multi-sport land, beach, urban, water and music based festival in Europe. The festival offers sponsors the ideal opportunity to promote their brands at top level through the 14 sports on offer. For more information on partner, event headline and general sponsorship opportunities contact White Air on 01983 760553 or visit the web site sponsorship and download links at www.whiteair.co.uk

STUART QUARRIE CEO, SkANDIA COWES WEEk

NIGEl HOWEll MANAGING DIRECTOR WHITE AIR

BARRy MCGOVERN GENERAl MANAGER POWERBOAT P1

06 Speed Junkies Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk Speed Junkies Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 07

Skandia Cowes Week 4 – 11 August

White Air Extreme Sports Festival 27 August – 2 September

Cowes Powerboat Festival 24 – 26 August

Speed Junkies Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 09

WWW.COWESBROADBAND.COM

With 2006 Powerboat P1 SuperSport Class World Champion Jackie Hunt.

Where are your favourite places to eat and drink

on the Island?

Saffron Indian Restaurant, Mojacs and The Fountain

Hotel bar.

Where is the best place to rub shoulders with the

stars of the show?

In the pits down by the seafront.

What for you is the highlight of Powerboat P1?

The start of the P1 race. The sight and sound of

20 ‘big muscle’ boats hurtling along at 70mph

plus is incredible!

Where is the best place to view the action?

The Yacht Haven is a great place to see boats in the

wet pits and watch the preparation before a race.

For most of the lap action in the Round The Island Race

and the second leg of The British Grand Prix it has to be

somewhere between The Esplanade and Egypt Point.

Why, apart from the power boating, do you like

coming to the Isle of Wight?

I love shopping in Cowes. My favourite shop is

Fat Face where I always buy a bikini in the sale, which

just happens to be during Powerboat P1 weekend!

Where is your

favourite place to

eat and drink on

the Island?

My Mum’s roast is

unbeatable so I’d have to

say at home with her!

Where is the best place

to rub shoulders with

the stars of White Air?

In the event village or on the water competing. Most are very

approachable and enjoy meeting with fans, especially at the end

of event party.

What for you is the highlight of White Air?

The chance to watch some of the other extreme sports in action.

Where is the best place to view the action?

From Sandown bay in front of the village. Starts from there can be

quite spectacular.

Why, apart from windsurfing, do you like coming to the

Isle of Wight?

I was born in Ventnor; many of the people I grew up with are still

there and although I now travel all over the world, the Island is

still my spiritual home.

Insider’s White Air

Insider’s Powerboat P1

Where are your favourite places to eat and drink on the Island?

I like to drink at Pier View where I often catch up with old mates during

Cowes Week. My favourite restaurants are db’s and Lugley’s.

Where is the best place to rub shoulders with the stars of Skandia

Cowes week?

The beer tent! You never know who you might bump into.

What for you is the highlight of Skandia Cowes Week?

The racing. The Solent is such an interesting place to race, it’s impossible

to get bored of it. Avoiding all of the other boats is a challenge in itself.

Where is the best place to view

the action?

The Yacht Squadron would give

you the best view of all the action

especially the finish line.

Why, apart from sailing, do you

like coming to the Isle of Wight?

I’m often over on the Island to

visit friends who live there.

There’s always a good vibe and

a friendly atmosphere.

World windsurfing champion Ross Williams

With Ben Ainslie, double Olympic gold and silver sailing medallist

Insider’s Cowes WeekImages courtesy of Skandia Cowes Week, Wight Air and Powerboat P1

With Trisha Goddard

You started your career as an air hostess. What was the best and worst thing about the job?The best thing was that after working a long hard shift, you’d end up in a completely different part of the world from where you started from. The worst thing was getting a wake-up call at 2am and not being able to remember where you were!

What do you look forward to most about summer holidays?Having non-stress time with my family.

Where is your favourite holiday destination and why?I love the States because of the shopping and experiences but I also loved the wildness of South Africa’s game reserves, the quiet of the island of Nevis and Sydney, Australia because I lived there for so long it’s a home from home.

What are your favourite kinds of holiday and why?Adventure holidays because beach holidays are boring. After all, why would I need a tan! I love trekking, going on safari, rollerblading in Santa Monica and running anywhere in the world!

Have you ever been to the Isle of Wight and what memories do you have of the Island?Not yet, but The Isle of Wight Festival is on my ‘to do’ list before I get too old to boogie!

What would you never leave home without on a holiday?Factor 40 sunblock. I wear sunscreen every day of my life, come rain or shine. It’s the secret to looking young. Oh, and my iPod and running gear which also help me keep a healthy mind!

What will you be taking to read this year?Harlan Coben’s new book, ‘The Woods’ and anything by Tess Gerritsen or John Connolly.

What is your favourite holiday wardrobe item?As we’re going on a luxury cruise this year and need to dress for dinner, I’m taking an assortment of Karen Millen cocktail dresses. They’re elegant, don’t crease and don’t take up much room in my bulging suitcases!

Are you a bikini babe or a one-piece wonder?I’ve just bought one of those 1950s-style high-waisted bikinis at the moment, but to be honest I’m not massively into water unless it’s in a canoe or whizzing around on a jet ski.

On the case Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 11

On the case…

Trisha appears daily at 10.30am in Trisha Goddard on Five.

If you’ve got inquisitive and energetic kids to entertain, the Isle of Wight is the place to go. From golf to ghosts, we’ve dug out some great places to keep your little terrors busy

Get active this summer with our great ideas for fun with children

School’s out!

50%SOLD!

The Needles rocks and lighthouse at Alum Bay are landmarks synonymous with

the Isle of Wight. Ride in the spectacular chair-lift down the side of the

cliff and take a picturesque stroll on the pebble beach below. See the

pinks, mauves and yellows in the cliff face and visit the sand shop to

fill up glass models and bottles with the trademark coloured sand.

Call 0870 458 0022 or visit www.theneedles.co.uk

Get your children into golf at The Provision Golf Academy at Brown’s Golf

Course in Sandown. Lessons are given by PGA qualified instructors, using fun

and easy to learn methods. Summer courses include pitch and putt and short par

three holes. Call 01983 408000 or visit www.provisiongolf.co.uk

Take a spooky night time stroll through the darkened streets and passageways of

Old Newport. Gather with other curious souls to hear haunting tales of ghosts, witness the

scenes of spooky hauntings and imagine the dastardly deeds of yesteryear. Wednesday night

mystery tours run throughout the summer and start from outside The Wheatsheaf Hotel in

St. Thomas Square. Tours are suitable for children over three. Call 01983 813813 for details.

Bring out your kids’ artistic talents at Fired Arts in

Ryde where they can design and paint plates, pots

and ornaments, transforming them into masterpieces

to treasure forever. With stunning views of the

Solent from the shop’s windows they certainly

won’t be stuck for inspiration. Call 01983 614455

or visit www.firedartceramics.co.uk

Give animal-mad children a day to remember at

Appuldurcombe Falconry Centre at Wroxall where

they can become a junior falconer and learn to fly

a mighty hawk or magnificent owl. One-day courses

run throughout the summer for children aged

between 7 and 16 and include training from the

centre’s head falconer, a photo certificate and

free gift. Call 01983 852484 or visit

www.appuldurcombe.co.uk

10 School’s Out Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk

12 A walk on the wild side Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk A walk on the wild side Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 13

Meet lisa Britton, the primate supervisor at The Isle of Wight Zoo whose job it is to look after the primates, reptiles and invertebrates. So close is lisa to the Zoo’s 22 lemurs that she knows each of them by name and even hand-reared one of them at home. In fact, when lisa’s in the lemurs’ pens they treat her as one of their group and will groom and communicate with her just like they do with each other.

A walk on the wild side A day in the life of a zookeeper

In the know:What types of lemurs do you have

at the zoo?

The Isle of Wight Zoo has four species of

lemurs: Black Lemurs, White-Fronted Brown

Lemurs, Black and White Ruffed Lemur and

Ring-Tailed Lemurs.

Is it fair to keep lemurs in captivity?

No British zoo is allowed to take animals from

the wild unless in exceptional circumstances

for breeding programmes. All of our lemurs

have grown up in a zoo. Their wellbeing is

strictly controlled by British and worldwide

animal welfare laws and the zoo also follows

an enrichment programme for all of its animals

which encourages natural behaviours found in

the wild. Naturally lemurs are prone to risk of

disease and hunting from predators. In the zoo

they are given the best possible quality of life, a

balanced diet and constant care.

Tell me us more about your

enrichment programme?

In the wild lemurs have to forage for food and

use their natural instincts to find it. To prevent

them from getting lazy, we have a range of ways

of hiding their food – from sealing it within boxes

to scattering it through long grass. In the zoo,

their pens mirror their natural habitats as far as

possible, with long grass, tall trees and specialist

plants. Old logs are brought in for them to strip

and search for bugs in and baskets of hay give

them the opportunity to pad out their bedding.

How long does it take for a lemur to get

used to a new keeper?

About three months. Just like any animal, you

have to earn their trust. Keepers try to spend

as much time as possible with the lemurs to

further their knowledge and understanding of

them. Obviously food is a key attraction, but

lemurs also like to touch, smell and groom their

keepers as part of their group.

Get behind the scenes at The Isle of Wight Zoo with your family for a VIP day where you’ll be able to meet the keepers and see the animals

being fed and cared for up-close.

Our lucky winner and their family will be given free entry to the zoo, lunch and a fabulous souvenir gift of their special day.

To be in with a chance to win, SIMPly TEll US WHERE IN THE WORlD lEMURS COME FROM? and send us your answer on a postcard to: Connect Competitions, Red Funnel, 12 Bugle Street, Southampton SO14 2JY. Alternatively, email connect@redfunnel.co.uk with “Zoo” in the subject line - don’t forget to include your full contact details! Closing date is 15 August.

The prize is valid for a family of four and must be taken by the end of 2007. The prize visit may exclude certain dates. Usual competition rules apply. Free return ferry travel is available for mainland residents. Not transferable or refundable. Prize to be drawn at random on 16 August 2007. Judges decision is final.

8.30amCheck lemurs are all safe and well and have had a good night. Clean pens and check fences to make sure they are secure.

9.30amPrepare lemurs’ breakfast: banana, pear, carrot, melon and grapes and a handful of grubs.

10amFeed lemurs and spend time socialising with them. Monitor Mangoky’s behaviour which has been more domineering towards other keepers in the last week.

11amGive talk to Zoo visitors about lemurs, their natural habitat and their feeding/breeding habits.

12 noonA quick stop for lunch.

1pmMake a new behavioural enrichment device for the lemurs. Perhaps a sealed box full of food, a chain of yoghurt pots containing banana pieces to hang up from the pen roof a handful of raisins thrown in the long grass? If hot, make fruit ice-lollies for lemurs to chew on.

2pmIn with the lemurs watching them interact and play.

2.30pmPrepare lemurs’ second meal: baked beans and apple juice.

4pmFeed lemurs.

5pmHelp other zookeepers with zoo maintenance.

6pmZoo closing time. Check lemurs are happy and that pens are secure and tidy up.

7pmHome to look after my own collection of animals – a cat, a scorpion, a snake, six lizards and four tarantulas.

Fact file:• lemurs come from the island of

Madagascar off the African coast.

• lemurs are ancient primates and evolved before monkeys and apes.

• They have small heads, pointed muzzles and wet, dog-like noses.

• They use their bottom teeth as a dental comb for grooming their fur as well as scraping gum off the bark of trees.

• lemurs are the only primates that can purr, sounding just like kittens when contented.

• Females are dominant to the males.

• lemurs sunbathe sitting up and sleep for up to 16 hours a day!

• lemurs eat flowers, leaves, ripe fruit, nectar and some insects.

The Isle of Wight Zoo is based at Yaverland Seafront, Sandown. Tel. 01983 403 883. www.isleofwightzoo.com

We take a look at Lisa’s busy schedule

Isle of Wight Zoo General Manager Greg Hailes reveals what we can expect next series

Filming has just started for the second series of ITV Meridian’s Tiger

Island which follows the lives of the Zoo’s big cats and the keepers

that care for them.

Last series our Indian tigers Diamond and Aysha settled in to a new enclosure while two of our

other tigers Chandru, Shan, Dru and Lola were integrated for the first time. White Tiger Zena

had her eye removed after being diagnosed with glaucoma and I went to India with our Education

Officer, Tracy Dove, to find out more about the essential conservation work the Zoo supports there.

The new series is expected to be every bit as exciting with new arrival Rambo, a former circus tiger

coming from America. We’ll be highlighting the problems of animal welfare in the US where tigers are

sold as pets and will also be meeting an animal training specialist back at the Zoo who will show the

team how to maximise their care of the animals through positive communication techniques.

Visit us over the summer and who knows, you may be caught on camera too!

Red Funnel offers Ferry inclusive packages to the Isle of Wight Zoo from just £48.50.

Visit www.redfunnel.co.uk for more details.

Tiger Island update

Win a VIP visit to The Isle of Wight Zoo for all the family!

14 Alternative Isle of Wight Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk Alternative Isle of Wight Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 15

SOARING HIGHIf you’ve always fancied a go at gliding, Vectis

Gliding Club at Bembridge Airport offers an

experience like no other. Experience the thrill of

silent flight 2000 feet up, taking in views of local

hills, cliffs and beaches.

Tell me more…Trial flights include a briefing with a qualified

instructor before you take to the skies in a two-

seater glider. Your instructor will show you how

the glider is controlled and if you’re feeling brave,

you’ll even be able to fly and control it yourself.

Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes and

jeans/trousers are required, and the club also

recommends taking a camera to record the

experience for your photo album.

Essential infoTrial flights cost from £55 per

person. Call 07870 165044 or visit

www.vectisglidingclub.co.uk

BACk TO NATUREBased in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,

Goodleaf Tree Climbing Adventures offers tree

climbing for all ages and abilities. Whilst scaling

the treetops, you’ll be able to enjoy views across

the Island and The Solent with the exact location

of the trees kept secret until a booking is made.

Tell me more…Climbers are given a health and safety

briefing before being fitted with a comfy

harness and hard hat.

You are then clipped on to a rope fitted with a

safety harness and after a demonstration and

practice can start your ascent, closely supervised

and instructed throughout. Hang out in the

Weird and wonderful Isle of Wight

canopy, enjoy a spot of

branch walking or relax in

the tree hammock before

abseiling to the ground

through the branches.

Back on the ground, a picnic

blanket awaits with home-

made refreshments and a

cup of tea to celebrate

your achievement.

Essential infoTree climbing costs £35 for adults and £25 for children aged eight

to 16. Call 01983 563573 or visit www.goodleaf.co.uk

FABUlOUSly FURRyWalk the Isle of Wight in the company of your very own llama.

Wight Llama Treks in Brightstone offer a range of options

including family treks and sunset romance packages taking in

the chalk downs of West Wight, with views of the Island, the

sea, and the Needles.

Tell me more…Llamas are pack animals distantly related to camels and were

domesticated by the people of the Andes for transporting

goods up and down the treacherous mountain terrain.

Wight Llamas are specially trained and extremely docile and

can be walked on a lead rope. Small groups are guaranteed as

a maximum of four llamas are taken out per trek.

As well as enjoying the

company of a furry friend, on

some expeditions you’ll also

be treated to refreshments,

ranging from coffee and

home-made cakes to

champagne, strawberries

and cream.

No specialist equipment is required, just stout shoes and the

ability to walk over uneven ground.

Essential infoFamily Treks for two adults and their children cost £60

per family and last for an hour and a half. Standard treks

(2.5hrs) cost £40 for adults and £10 for children while sunset

champagne treks cost £80 per couple. Call 01983 551128 or

visit www.wightllamatreks.co.uk

Take in the sights of the Isle of Wight in a brand new way with our guide to three of the best alternative days out New international developer The Pimento Group have

set the bar for innovative, yet sympathetic regeneration of the Cowes waterfront with the completion of Number One The Parade in West Cowes.

The 25 unit development boasts an unbeatable location right on the start line for Cowes week. Incorporating sustainable materials and built with the intention of blending with its surroundings and community, rather than a wish to dominate it, the structure has become a benchmark for this local developer’s international ambitions.

The Group has already commenced work on its second, third and fourth builds on the island of Barbados. “We believe that we have found our place in the world of property development” comments Christopher Scott, one of the four partners that make up the Pimento Group, and well known locally as a popular estate agent; “The Pimento Group is dedicated to developing luxurious, yet sensibly priced apartments for both local people and those wishing to achieve a slice of our wonderful island lifestyle”. For further information on the Pimento Group’s developments visit www.pimentogroup.com

Worldwide Island Living

The Island’s diverse landscape and coastline makes it the ideal setting for a wide range of events this summer.

From the magnificence of the Summer Fireworks prom, and the exhilaration of watching world class sailors at Skandia Cowes Week to the tasty treats on offer

at the Food and Drink festival and the aural delights of the Folk and Blues festival, there’s something for everyone on the Island this summer!

IOW events

JulyThe Canterbury Tales

13-15 July Appuldurcombe House, Nr WroxallThe Isle of Wight’s Ad Lib Theatre Company presents The Canterbury Tales in an outdoor production. Pack up a picnic and prepare for some medieval fun.

Call 01983 840188 www.appuldurcombe.co.uk

Summer Fireworks Prom

21 July Osborne House, East CowesBournemouth Symphony Orchestra offers all the pomp and circumstance of the last night at the proms with a spectacular classical firework evening in the beautiful grounds of Osborne House.

www.english-heritage.org.uk

Mottistone Jazz

28 July Mottistone Manor, Mottistone Bring a picnic, enjoy the jazz and dance the night away in the gardens with spectacular views of the sea.

Call 01983 741302 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/isleofwight

Medieval Spectacular

28-29 July Appuldurcombe House, Nr WroxallSee medieval seige societies recreate battlefield action and meet living history archers and men at arms.

Call 01983 840188 www.appuldurcombe.co.uk

AugustSummer events at Carisbrooke Castle

1-31 August Carisbrooke Castle, Newport A feast of medieval fun is to be had at Carisbrooke Castle this August. Please see page 17 for further details.

www.english-heritage.org.uk

Skandia Cowes Week

4-11 August Cowes/SolentSkandia Cowes Week is the longest-running, largest and most prestigious annual sailing event in the world. Whilst the crews race by day and party at night, spectators enjoy the shore side entertainment and unique festival atmosphere. Don’t miss the spectacular firework display which closes the event.

www.redfunnel.co.uk/cowesweek

Play On The Lawn

9-12 August Arreton Manor, ArretonEnjoy a performance of Servant of Two Masters in the magnificent historical surroundings of Arreton Manor.

Call 01983 522604 www.arretonmanor.co.uk

Isle of Wight Jazz/Latin/Blues Concert

17 August Nunwell House, BradingNunwell House provides a backdrop for sexy sultry vocalist Judy Shire and her band who will play a mix of jazz, latin and blues.

Call 08700 600100 www.judyshire.co.uk

Isle of Wight Garlic Festival

18-19 August Nr Newchurch A weekend of garlic-fuelled food, drink, fun and entertainment featuring Mungo Jerry and Brotherhood Of Man.

Call 01983 863566 www.garlic-festival.co.uk

Cowes Powerboat Festival

24-26 August Cowes/SolentExhilarating, dramatic, action-packed and one of the fastest growing motorsports in Europe, the U.I.M Powerboat P1 World Championship comes to the Cowes shoreline, combining breathtaking action for spectators with all the glamour and prestige of international motorsport.

www.redfunnel.co.uk/powerboat

Sandown Illuminated Carnival Parade

29 August Town centre, SandownSandown Illuminated Carnival Parade is one of the biggest on the island. It features spectacular costumes, amazing floats and bands parading through the town’s streets, all lit with thousands of colourful lights.

Call 01983 402334 www.sandowncarnival.com

White Air Extreme Sports Festival

27 August - 2 September YaverlandFor the first time, Wight Air will host the 2007 World Windsurfing Formula Championships with some 100 racers from 40 countries. The festival also features the usual mix of extreme sports and great shore side parties for competitors and spectators alike.

www.redfunnel.co.uk/whiteair

SeptemberWolverton Manor Garden Fair

1-2 September ShorwellWith Wolverton Manor acting as a backdrop, the traditional garden fair provides a glimpse of the 16th century whilst entertaining the whole family with stalls, demonstrations and activities.

www.wolvertonmanor.com

Bestival

7-9 September Robin Hill, Nr NewportThe multi-award winning Bestival is the funkiest festival of the year. With acts including the Beastie Boys, The Chemical Brothers, Primal Scream and Gossip, there is no better way to round off the summer.

www.redfunnel.co.uk/bestival

Isle of Wight Cycling Festival

15-23 September Island WideThis festival offers something for all abilities and cycle disciplines. There is a wide range of cycle events rated from easy to strenuous, including the famous Hills Killer Mountain Bike Challenge.

www.redfunnel.co.uk/cycling

Isle of Wight Folk & Blues Festival

21-23 September VentnorReturning the island’s festivals to the iconic roots that Bob Dylan’s performance in 1969 created, the IW Folk & Blues Festival features a range of folk and blues acts including Fairport Convention and Salsa Celtica.

Call 01983 856200 www.iwfolkblues.co.uk

Apple Days Festival

22-23 September Afton Park, Nr FreshwaterThe picturesque setting of Afton Park in West Wight plays host to the annual Apple Days Festival. Help out and enjoy with the age-old traditions of apple harvesting and pressing, apple and parsnip soup and freshly baked apple cake as well as great entertainment!

www.appledays.com

Isle of Wight Food & Drink Festival

22-30 September NewportCelebrating the Island’s booming organic food and drink industry, the festival gives visitors the chance to sip, taste and savour award-winning beer, wine, asparagus, garlic, sweet corn and tomatoes as well as sausages championed by Jamie Oliver

www.islandbreaks.co.uk

What Isle of Wight Cycling FestivalWhere Island wideWhen 15 - 23 September

16 Events Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk Events Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 17

Medieval tales This August head over to Carisbrooke Castle for a feast of

medieval fun. Get the kids dressed up for the Heroes and

Villains event and take part in plays such as ‘Tales from Robin

Hood’ and ‘Horatio’s last Hurrah’ or clown around in the

circus workshops.

Turn ‘The worst days out in history’ into one of your best days

of the summer, with Carisbrooke Castle’s grisly event bringing

you face to face with a 17th century surgeon complete with live

leeches. Or hear the horrors of Milly Molly Manky and the

long-nosed Nostridamus, the Singing Plague Victims.

The month draws to a close with a grand jousting event on

August Bank Holiday weekend. Watch in awe as fearless

knights collide at high speeds in this real life battle of skills.

laugh at the antics of Peterkin the fool and have a go yourself

in the jester’s workshop.

On your bike! With over 200 miles of bridleways and 60 miles of heritage

coast the Island has plenty for the cycling enthusiast, and

provides the perfect location for a festival devoted to the sport.

A highlight of the festival is the annual Cycle The Wight

Challenge, with a choice of 65 or 45 mile circuits starting

from the Red Funnel terminal in East Cowes on 16 September.

The 12 mile Sunshine Trail is ideal for families and begins at

Shanklin station, while for those with a hankering for hills, the

Hills killer Challenge is an orienteering ride where participants

are given the chance to pit their bike and stamina against

routes incorporating three, seven or 14 hills. These tough

off-road endurance courses cover some of the most gruelling

territory on the Island.

The festival launches at Seaclose Park, Newport, where visitors

can look forward to displays of vintage, electric, wild and

wacky cycles, a Sink Or Swim competition across the river, an

obstacle course and activity packs for children.

For further information call 01983 203891 or visit

www.sunseaandcycling.com

Red Funnel has teamed up with Carisbrooke Castle

to offer return day trip packages for a car and four

people from just £44.48. For more details of this

event visit www.english-heritage.org.uk.

For more fantastic day out offers to the Island

and the mainland see www.redfunnel.co.uk

What Summer events at Carisbrooke CastleWhere Carisbrooke Castle, NewportWhen August

Red Funnel are proud to be sponsoring this

event for the first time this year.

Travel to the festival with Red Funnel. Foot

passenger rates start from just £11.30 for a

day return, and bikes go free of charge on

vehicle ferries.

18 Puzzle page Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk Puzzle page Connect www.redfunnel.co.uk 19

Puzzle pageTake time out on your journey to try our Sudoku or prize winning Crossword. Don’t worry if your journey’s nearly over – please feel free to keep me for your next coffee break.

Sudoku

tech air®, manufacturers of business, casual and sports bags is offering Connect readers the chance

to win a Weekender bag. Extremely practical with a pull-out trolley arm, the Weekender has three

roomy compartments making it ideal for an overnight or weekend away.

Compact and high capacity, the Weekender includes a removable laptop slipcase designed to hold

laptops up to 15.4 inches, a 12 month i-TRAk™ subscription covering both a laptop, and the bag itself.

The Weekender also features a luggage tracking tag which provides instant SMS notification when the

bag is found and a Wet Skinn® removable spill-proof sleeve.

TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING A WEEkENDER BAG, SIMPly COMPlETE THE CROSSWORD AND REARRANGE THE yEllOW SQUARES TO REVEAl A WEIRD AND WONDERFUl ISlAND ACTIVITy.Send your answer on a postcard to: Connect Crossword Competition, Red Funnel, 12 Bugle Street, Southampton SO14 2JY.

Alternatively, email connect@redfunnel.co.uk with “Weekender” in the subject line - don’t forget to include your full contact details!

Closing date 30 September. Not transferable or refundable. Prize to be drawn at random on 1 October 2007. Judges decision is final.

Win a Weekender bag!

Across

4 Baffling questions (6)

7 Food fish (8)

8 Amongst (6)

10 Lacking taste, vulgar (5)

13 Single entity (4)

14 Flying toy (4)

15 Social insects (4)

16 Fold or thickness (3)

17 Polishing pad (4)

19 Worry (4)

21 Military unit (9)

23 Brave man (4)

24 Sixth Greek letter (4)

26 Mesh (3)

27 Entreaty (4)

29 Counterfoil (4)

32 Told fibs (4)

33 Stock, keep (5)

34 Small river (6)

35 Salve (8)

36 Jail (6)

Answers will be published in the next edition.

Down

1 Artist’s garment (5)

2 Outrider (5)

3 Mr Hackman, actor (4)

4 Set in the ground to grow (5)

5 Long narrow cut (4)

6 Outcome (6)

9 Unsuitable person (6)

11 Raised edge (3)

12 Exclude (5)

13 Not disconcerted, unperturbed (7)

15 Towards the stern (3)

16 Female swan (3)

18 Ideal society (6)

20 Cook in an oven (5)

21 Wager (3)

22 Meadow (3)

23 Blustering bully (6)

25 Tyke (3)

28 Type of fruit (5)

30 Drying cloth (5)

31 Ship’s mooring place (5)

32 Permits, allows (4)

33 Badger’s burrow (4)

Kids’ puzzles

Q E y A C H T S S D F G H J

Z D E R B N J P P T F I S H

C W A V E S A W A E F G I l

W T y U O V D S S C A G P S

A U O A I O U C S G W A H R

T A S D F G H J E l M l N B

E W E R T y S R N l A F A E

R C E C A R S E G H S G U y

T I O C D S W S E A S W S V

A X E l E A T S R C H I T P

B O I T O A H Q S R I y A R

l l H E O l O U P E P H E O

O C I C E C R E A M S R S V

S D S U F U A P D A D F I S

S E A G U l l A H F X W l C

yachtsIce CreamsFlag

ShipsWaterCars

FishPassengersWaves

SeatsSeagull

Wordsearch

Just for fun

last issue’s answersAcross: 7 Menagerie, 8 Ferry, 10 Pretzels, 11 Ridgil, 12 Ryde, 13 Arbalest, 15 Peccant, 17 Stowing, 20 Girosols, 22 Alan, 25 Red Jet, 26 Bad actor, 27 Scuzz, 28 Untrodden.

Down: 1 Pears, 2 Pastry, 3 Renege on, 4 Fiestas, 5 Dead slow, 6 Croissant, 9 Crab, 14 Residence, 16 Cool jazz, 18 To and fro, 19 Ash-bins, 21 Oats, 23 Arcade, 24 Cowes.

Spot the difference Can you find the six differences in these two pictures?

Dot-to-dot

Connect has teamed up with Wall’s to offer one

lucky reader a month’s supply of ice cream. To be

in with a chance to win, simply send us your best lolly stick joke.

The writer of the joke judged to be the funniest will win.

Send your joke on a postcard to: Connect Joke Competition, Red Funnel, 12 Bugle Street, Southampton SO14 2Jy. Alternatively, email connect@redfunnel.co.uk with “joke” in the subject line - don’t forget to include your full contact details! Closing date is 30 August and usual competition rules apply. Not transferable or refundable. Prize to be drawn on 1 September 2007. Judges decision is final.

Win a month’s supply of ice

cream!

Connect prize-wining crossword