ISLAND LIFE
Diary of the High Sheriff
By Nick Hayward
Peter Vail, General Manager
and Bob Huxtable, Engineering
Manager of the Isle of Wight
Steam Railway have allowed me,
during my year in office, to pursue
my fascination with steam engines.
We have all driven along the downs
road and glimpsed that puff of
white smoke as the indomitable
little engines chug along the tracks
below. But it was only this year
that I became fully aware of the
enthusiastic and diligent team of
volunteers who keep the white
smoke puffing. I first met some of
them last July at Osborne House
when the Duke of Gloucester
came to congratulate them on
their Queen’s Award for Voluntary
Service.
Then in October I visited
Havenstreet to continue the
celebrations with all the volunteers
and supporters. I wandered
around and marvelled at the
magnificent old engines and
the people who lovingly restore
and care for all aspects of this
important and favourite Island
attraction.
But still I wanted to see more and
Peter kindly allowed me to return
with my young nephew Luke
Bailey for yet another fascinating
visit and in particular we were
able to see the huge new coach
sheds and the old pier tram under
restoration. I have to admit my
nephew left beaming but covered
in grease and soot for which I hope
my sister-in-law will forgive me.
A few weeks ago Terence Blunden,
Chairman Isle of Wight Sports
and Recreation Council, invited
me to speak at the 39th Sports
Achievement Awards evening at the
Riverside Centre.
Terence introduced a glittering
list of Island talent, young and
old, competitor and coach, at an
uplifting celebration of Sporting
Achievements. The whole evening
rekindled the spirit of last summer’s
Olympics and it was a joy to
congratulate the individual and
team entries.
As young swimmers like Zac Lacey,
or older rowing competitors and
coaches like Mike Jenner, came
up to collect their awards, I was
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so impressed with how many
local people dedicate their time
and expertise. Just like team GB
punched above their weight in the
medals, I saw how we as an Island
have managed to produce so many
outstanding performances.
And that despite the continuous
obstacle of the ferry crossing,
which consumes so much time and
money for Island sportsmen and
women, boys and girls. Yes we too
clearly punch above our weight and
we had much to celebrate on this
inspirational evening.