Island Life Magazine Ltd April/May 2015 | Page 108

Protecting your property W ith thieves targeting rural properties on the Island, it’s worth checking that your own security measures are up to the job says John Heather, Agent at NFU Mutual. As rural life changes, farming families no longer make up the majority of the population; in their place are families whose breadwinners may be on the mainland, and retired people who have moved here to enjoy the rural lifestyle. The UK motorway network and links to Channel ports enable thieves to quickly move stolen machinery and other goods across the country and abroad – and while living on the Isle of Wight provides some protection from this scenario, it still pays to protect property by taking basic precautions, and being aware of suspicious activities. NFU Mutual is helping country people fight crime by supporting rural crime initiatives and liaising with police and local farm, countryside and horse watch groups. To help promote good security practice and deter thieves, it is also offering a range of premium discounts of up to 27.5% to farmers who fit approved security measures. Ron Bird & Son Wisteria Gallery Old Station Road, Ventnor, PO38 1DX t. 01983 867007 e. [email protected] w. www.pianos.gb.com 22 High Street, Wootton Bridge, PO33 4PE t. 01983 882980 e. [email protected] w. www.wisteriagallery.co.uk W P hatever your piano problem, there’s a family business in Ventnor that is sure to hold the key. Whether you need a re-tune or repair, new strings or general maintenance - or perhaps are looking to buy a new or used instrument, then specialists Ron Bird and Son can help. The large showroom and well-equipped workshops carry a wide range of nearly-new, reconditioned and as-bought pianos - all thoroughly checked by the resident experts prior to sale and delivery. And when it comes to maintenance and repair work, the name of Ron Bird guarantees quality workmanship. Ron has been working with pianos for almost half a century, having decided in1959 to follow his piano-maker and tuner grandfather into the profession. After studying Piano Technology in London, he worked for several prestigious companies, and opened a workshop and showroom in Cornwall. He was constantly in demand at major venues, including Wembley Arena, The Dominion Theatre and The Albert and Festival Halls. Now, Ron heads his own team of tunertechnicians, covering the whole of the Island as well as Plymouth, Torbay and Brighton. Among the team is his son Simon Bird, an Associate of the Institute of Musical Instrument Technology and a Student of the PTA, who has now joined the Music Services arm of the business. Ron and Simon are both Renner Recognised Technicians, having completed advanced courses at the Renner factory in Germany – so customers can be sure their beloved pianos will be in the best hands. recious pictures deserve the perfect frame – and one Island company has built a reputation for expertly mounting and framing all kinds of treasured pieces – from tapestries and embroideries to keepsake sports shirts, medals and coins, baby shoes and other 3-dimensional objects, as well as the more usual paintings and photographic images, and full conservation framing. Established in 1977, Wisteria Gallery has become known for its exceptional service, and has a whole army of satisfied customers. The business is built on offering value for money with the highest of standards – which explains why many customers return time after time. Indeed, the gallery still has some of its original customers, who return on a regular basis. It constantly updates its equipm V