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We have a monthly meeting, on the 4th Monday of the month. These meetings are held at the Arreton Community Hall, Main Road, Arreton, 7.30 for 8.00 p.m. The usual format of the evening is that we listen to a speaker on some relevant topic, view videos, or have some form of quiz, as well as having a general 'noggin and natter'. Visitors to the Island are welcome to come along laughter.
NOVEMBER MEETING
30 members and 2 Austineers from Essex were present, to hear yet another talk given by Mark Earp, who works with Autistic children. He gets them involved when he researches Island history. His talk concentrated on our County town, Newport, and how it has evolved. In particular, he concentrated on its Geology, Bridges, Harbour, Town Centre, Transport and Industry. The talk was illustrated by an interesting selection of paintings and old photographs, which traced how things changed over the years. It was to become a very vibrant town and the hub of the Island. At one time, some 25,000 soldiers were based at Parkhurst. The River Medina was busy, with ships offloading essential goods. Some 17 Mills took advantage of the ebb and flow of the tide. The several tributaries of the Medina, were much larger than they are today, resulting in the need for many bridges. Unfortunately, like many towns today, there have been so many shop closures. Today, unfortunately, the vibrancy appears to have gone. It was a most informative evening. A unexpected bonus was that, new member Ric Bull, had made some cupcakes to accompany the coffee, tea and biscuits provided by the ladies in the kitchen. Thank you Ric. | |
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