High street banks price war is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

Yeeha – fantastic 25% saving on a one hour horse riding lesson!

The breathtaking scenery of West Wight is enough for anyone to jump on horseback and ride off into the countryside. Now you can with this great discounted deal from Hill Farm Stables – 60 minutes for just £18.75 per person, saving you a fab 25%!

The stables are perfectly situated for hacking through the beautiful countryside or you have a lesson in the security of the riding school. The rides are tailor made to fit your ability whether you are a complete beginner, novice or an experienced rider. Parties are also welcome so you can buy a voucher for you and your friends.

Trot on, share the fun and spread the savings!  www.wightliving.co.uk

Wightliving – great offer with Hill farm Stables is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

The Price Is Wight Offer A Wonderful Family Photoshoot Package is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

Credit easing must be bold to ensure it helps small businesses

The Government must be bold in its development of credit easing, ensuring that it is separate from the banks, affordable and available as soon as possible to help small businesses, says the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). Even though the banks have signed up to the Project Merlin agreement to meet lending targets, many small firms are not getting the credit they need, as the banks failed to meet the half year targets set. As a result, the Chancellor announced that the Treasury would look into credit easing, to make access to finance easier, particularly for small firms.

Only 15 % of respondents to the latest FSB survey have gone to the banks for finance in the past two months. Of these, half had their application accepted but more than a third (34%) were refused. Previous FSB research has shown that businesses that have not secured all the finance they applied for continued to have money worries (40%), missed their growth opportunities (31%) and have delayed their investment plans (21%).

In a new paper, FSB credit easing viewpoint, which will form part of its submission ahead of the Autumn Statement, the FSB lays out the ways which it believes the Government can deliver credit easing to benefit the smallest of businesses.

Treasury is looking at the direct purchase of corporate bonds in small and medium sized enterprises, through the creation of a new market as one way to make the credit easing scheme work. The FSB believes that this would miss the very smallest of businesses that need access to small amounts of finance, as those businesses would not have the manpower to develop bonds. And, the value of bonds from a micro firm would also not be large enough to prove efficient for the Government to be a bond investor.

To deliver the scheme, the FSB proposes that the Government look at more creative methods which could use existing Government lending agencies. This could include scaling-up existing Government lending schemes such as the successful Enterprise Finance Guarantee and the Exports Credit Guarantee Department, bringing in back-office capabilities, possibly from a bank.

However, the FSB is urging the Government to ensure that the scheme has three core principles to guarantee its success and so it reaches the businesses that need it most:

• Boost competition: in line with the Independent Commission on Banking’s recommendations, Government intervention should encourage competition in the market and aim to address the market dominance of a few large players
• Increasing access to credit for the smallest companies: the scheme should improve the supply and price of credit to the lower end of the market – loan values of less than £25,000, where the majority of demand lies and where firms have had particular problems raising finance, as a key objective
• Community development: where possible, Government intervention should aim to improve the flow of credit to ‘hard to reach’ sectors of the economy such as rural areas and areas that have experienced industrial decline

Ken Moon, Chairman of the FSB’s Wessex Region, said: “For credit easing to have any impact, it must be bold and look to boost competition by stimulating innovative models that are coming onto the market, such as peer-to-peer lending and smaller internet banks. Analysis of small businesses lending shows that it’s the smallest of firms that are getting the worse deal – they’re paying more and they’re more likely to be refused. For credit easing to work it needs to benefit the smallest of businesses as well as medium-sized ones. However, if it is run through the main high street banks, that already dominate the small business market, we fear that businesses will be put off applying for it and so wouldn’t have the impact needed to make a difference. If thought through properly, this scheme could be really useful. The FSB would like the Government to establish a scheme which is universal so that all businesses, whatever their size, sector or status can access it. It needs to be something that can be easily set up, for example, using existing Government schemes as its backbone and it must be at arm’s length from the banks.” For full information , go to www.fsb.org.uk/fsb-survey-panel

Credit easing must be bold to ensure it helps small businesses is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

We all look for ways to save money, without compromising on the good life. Now a new island based discount website is making it easy for everyone. Officially launched last week, www.wightliving.co.uk is helping islanders and visitors, enjoy the best the island has to offer, while making huge savings along the way. Wightliving offers great discounts across the board from romantic places to stay to fabulous eating out, family entertainment, beauty, fitness, leisure, sports and more.

Wightliving was started by four islanders, Fraser and Emily Lloyd Jones, Sarah Sims and Dom Hicklin. “ We all love the island and thought a great way of supporting local business and boosting the local economy was offering discounts on the best the island has to offer. So people get real value for money and a memorable experience, while businesses increase their customer base, even during the quiet times,” explains Fraser Jones, ex-manager of the Priory Bay. “What’s more is that membership is totally free for both the customer and businesses interested in signing up. “

For anyone wanting to try out any Wightliving offers, all you have to do is sign up by registering your email address. You’ll get regularly updated every few days with new offers. But you must be quick to grab a deal, as offers are only available for a limited time only. “It’s a great way to continue enjoying the island’s delights, while saving you money at the same time, whether it’s a two hour beauty treatment package for half the price or a fab meal for two with 50% off – there’s something for everyone, ” says co-founder Sarah Sims. Recent offers and current deals at www.wightliving.co.uk are Harmony Beauty, Barefoot on the Beach, Chessell Pottery, Dan’s Kitchen, Stand Up Paddle Boarding, The Garlic Farm shop and Café

Wightliving now Launched on the Isle of Wight is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

Wightliving the island’s exciting new discount website is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

How to own a house without being on the legal title?

If you own a house then you will have your title registered at the Land Registry. That is simple enough. No more than four people can be registered as the legal owners and it should go without saying that all owners must be 18 or over and not bankrupt.

So how can you be an owner without a registered title?

Answer: A Declaration of Trust.

Under English law, ownership of the legal title of a house is distinct from the ownership of the beneficial title.  In essence, this means that you may own the house but are not entitled to the proceeds of sale when it is sold.

This is arranged by the legal owners stating that they hold the property under a trust on whatever terms set out in the trust deed. The trust can be very flexible and protect monies invested or ensure someone has the right to live in a house.

Some common uses are:-

• Protect parents’ capital invested in a son or daughter’s first purchase

• Protect unequal contributions of capital to a purchase by unmarried couples and provision for sale if required by one partner.

• Set out the terms and proportions under which a commercial property may be held by business partners

• Help protect capital asset of a couple where one owner is self-employed and may be liable to future substantial financial claims against his business.

To be most effective, Declarations of Trust should be signed when the property is first purchased. Remember always take legal advice to ensure that all parties to the document receive independent legal advice.

Paul Wilks

Licensed Conveyancer,

Member of Solicitors for the Elderly.

01983 614657

How to own a house without being on the legal title? is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

Barclaycard launches longest EVER 0% deal

Today, Barclaycard extended its offer of 18 months 0% on balance transfers to 20 months interest-free, with the one-off fee increasing from 2.9% to 3.2%.

Martin Lewis, creator of MoneySavingExpert.com says:

“The credit crunch’s jaws are being prised open by a 0% balance transfer price war. Barclaycard’s prior 18 month 0% deal was already history’s longest, so today’s extension to 20 months smashes everything we’ve seen before – though it has jimmied things slightly by upping the one-off fee to 3.2%.

“There’s no doubt this is a deliberate reflex slug back at MBNA which this morning stole its best buy crown, launching its own 18 month 0% deal with a slightly lower fee. The two have been battling it out for months.

“And these deals can save people serious money, as they’re balance transfer offers designed for shifting existing debts to, to cut costs. Someone with £3,000 on a standard 18.9% APR card repaying £100 a month would take roughly 40 months to fully clear the debt at around £1,000 in interest. Moving to this deal would see them repay in roughly 30 months costing around £200 – though it’s important they don’t ever spend on the card as that can ruin things.

“Yet while the headline rates far exceed even the best deals in the pre-crunch high lend period, it’s worth remembering credit scoring is far tougher these days, so fewer people are likely to get them, probably only those who need it less.”

Full info at www.moneysavingexpert.com/balancetransfers

Barclaycard launches longest EVER 0% deal is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

The Baby and Toddler Event is believed to be the Isle of Wight’s first ever show dedicated to bumps,

babes and tots, and any island business that caters for them!

Held at Cowes Yacht Haven on 2/3 April, The Baby and Toddler Event will have exhibitors including

activity groups, nurseries, gift companies, baby equipment retailers, photographers, fitness and

health professionals. There will be a demonstration area for activity groups, and informative talks,

dedicated feeding and changing areas, plus a buggy park with baby-slings available. The cafe/snack

area and bar will be open too!

Tickets are £5 per family (2 adults & up to 4 children). From each ticket sold £2 will go to Barely Born

- the Isle of Wight Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Appeal. Each ticket will also double as a raffle ticket.

Check the website www.thebabyandtoddlerevent.co.uk for more details

.

The Baby and Toddler Show Isle of Wight this April is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

Hovertravel invites locals to Portsmouth’s Big Day Out

Hovertravel, the fastest Isle of Wight passenger service across the Solent, is offering Isle of Wight residents a 10% discount on Hovertravel tickets for Portsmouth’s Big Day Out on the 12^th and 13^th March 2011*.

For the weekend of 12th and 13th March 2011, there will be many offers for Portsmouth and Isle of Wight residents, treating them to a Big Day Out in Portsmouth to celebrate British Tourism Week. Discounts include 50% off entry to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, 50% off entry to Spinnaker Tower and special offers and discounts from many of the restaurants & shops at Gunwharf Quays.

To take advantage of this fantastic offer, residents just need to bring a utility bill and photo ID with them on the day and purchase their tickets from the respective attractions’ visitor centres. For more details visit www.hovertravel.co.uk/offer/portsmouth-big-days-out

*Terms and Conditions

• The tickets are only valid for the day they are purchased
• Only available on standard adult and child singles, period returns and day return tickets
• Offer is only available in the terminals on the day and not in advance
• Travel must originate from Ryde and customers must provide evidence of Island residency
• Cannot be sold with any other offers including attraction tickets and family offer
• Travel is for the 12th & 13th March 2011 only

Hovertravel invites locals to Portsmouth’s Big Day Out is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

European judges have ruled it is illegal for insurers to offer different prices to men and women.

The change will come into full force in December 2012.

Martin Lewis, creator of MoneySavingExpert.com says: “This new sexless insurance ruling is a massive game changer.

“With car insurance I think there’s some logic to this ban – gender price differences there are based on behaviour. Why should one man pay more because others behaved badly? Would we allow the same to happen based on racial differences?

“However, in the main it is ludicrous. Most cost differences are because women live longer, that’s not bias it’s biology and there is nothing wrong with factoring that into quotes. For example, it means women get better annuity rates but worse life term assurance costs.

“Luckily, a little common sense prevailed as the ruling won’t have full impact for over 18 months, but technically it means insurers have already priced wrongly by doing this in the past – as it’s a clarification of the law rather than a new law.

“That means it’s likely we’ll see pricing models start to move before the deadline date as they get compliant. Of course, don’t expect men and women’s prices to meet in the middle. In car insurance where women under 40 pay substantially less than men, my best estimate is young mens’ costs will drop a little, womens’ rise a lot.”

Full info at www.moneysavingexpert.com/euinsure

European judges have ruled it is illegal for insurers to offer different prices to men and women. is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

44% with mental health problems have crisis debts – 5x everyone else It’s time to end the dual stigma of this marriage made in hell

Mental health problems can cause severe debt; severe debt can cause mental health problems. The sheer scale of this national problem is hidden, as both issues carry a stigma. MoneySavingExpert.com today launches a campaign to tackle the marriage made in hell of mental health and debt, including a major new free guide for sufferers and their carers.

In a new poll of 6,700 people, 44% of those who’ve had mental health problems (or have partners who do) have had severe or crisis debt – five times as many as everyone else (9%). For those with mental health problems, big debts are the norm.

Mental health & debt – the stats

• One in four British adults experiences at least one mental health problem in any year, eg, clinical depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder (source: ONS Psychiatric Morbidity report 2001).
• 44% of those seeking debt help have been prescribed medication to help them cope (Christians Against Poverty (CAP) 2010 survey).
• 38% of those seeking debt help had considered or attempted suicide as a way out (CAP survey 2010).
• 77% of those seeking debt help who are in a couple said debt affected their relationship (CAP survey 2010).
• Nick Clegg this month pledged to give an extra £400 million to mental health services to put it on an equal footing with physical health.

Free MoneySavingExpert guide Supported by debt & mental health charities

Today MoneySavingExpert.com launches the first detailed guide of its type, to provide help and info for those with mental health and debt problems and their family, friends, carers and counsellors.

The free 40-page PDF booklet was written with guidance from several leading charities including Mind, Rethink, Christians Against Poverty and others. It includes help on where to find free one-to-one debt counselling, working with banks, tips for bipolar and depression sufferers and how friends and carers can help.

Mental health problems can cause severe debt is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

Hovertravel teams up with Brittany Ferries to offer luxury mini cruises

Hovertravel, the fastest Isle of Wight passenger service across the Solent, has partnered with Brittany Ferries to create some amazing offers, including relaxing mini cruises to St. Malo, France or Santander, Spain from Portsmouth International Port, from only £34.95 per person. All the offers include Hovertravel to and from the Island.

For a two night weekend break to St. Malo, customers can book from now until 17 March for departures every Friday at 20h30, until 18 March 2011, priced from £34.95 per person. You can spend the evening enjoying the onboard facilities, with plenty of time to relax in the bar and get something to eat. The ship docks near the historic walled town. Visitors can walk round the ramparts of the city’s 20-foot thick walls for one mile to get splendid views of the town and the harbour and have a full day to wonder around the area and visit the local attractions and beautiful sandy beaches before departing at 22h00, arriving back in Portsmouth at 08h30.

The fantastic offer to Santander includes travel departing Portsmouth on Sundays and Wednesdays at 11h00, with 24 hours on board to enjoy facilities such as a stylish shopping mall, a leisure bar area, a luxury pool and a wide choice of restaurants. Customers will spend two days and nights on board Pont Aven, Brittany Ferries largest ship and the company’s flagship.  Customers will arrive in the heart of Santander, within easy walking distance of the bustling town centre and can spend four and a half hours exploring the fabulous shops, tapas bars and restaurants. With elegant plazas and beautiful parks, it offers a great taste of the delights of northern Spain.  The ship departs Santander at 16h30, arriving back in Portsmouth at 17h00 the following day. Book from now until 19 March for travel between 09 February and 20 March 2011, prices start at £59.95 per person.

To book these fantastic offer visit www.hovertravel.com or purchase tickets at the Ryde or Southsea hoverports.

Hovertravel teams up with Brittany Ferries to offer luxury mini cruises is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

THREE LUCKY SHOPPERS WILL WIN NCT NEARLY NEW SALE

BARGAIN-DASH, THIS WEEKEND

Saturday 9 October sees the return of the NCT’s Autumn Nearly New Sale…with a twist.

The Island branch of the parenting charity is running a competition for three lucky shoppers to win free entry to the sale of pre-loved baby, children’s and maternity clothes and equipment.

The prize will also offer an exclusive 5 minute bargain dash.  Before everyone else is allowed through the doors, the three winners will be given 5 minutes to pick out the best of the sale items (Please note: Winners will be able to continue shopping after their 5 minutes is up. Winners will still need to buy their bargains in the normal way – but they’ll be able to do that at the end of their 5 minute dash).

To be in with a chance of winning, you’ll need to arrive before 11am.  Raffle tickets will be handed out to the first 30 people in the queue.  The draw will be made by ISLE OF WIGHT RADIO’S PAUL TOPPING before the bargain dash gets underway, at 11.25am.

Only three people can win the prize – winners won’t be allowed the help of their family and friends during the 5 minute bargain dash!

The NCT’s Nearly New Sale takes place on Saturday 9 October, at the Riverside Centre in Newport, between 11.30am-1:30pm.  You don’t have to be an NCT member to bag a bargain. visit their Facebook page, or visit www.wightnct.org.uk.

NCT NEARLY NEW SALE Isle of Wight is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

Trendy forward thinking mums and dads could be in a windfall on theirenergy bills thanks to an initiative from the Island’s Footprint Trust charity. Energetic is the name of a new initiative, which involved young families insaving money through sensible use of fuel. The Trust will be recruiting mumsand dads to act as ‘Energetic Champions’ and will give free training to thoseinvolved. A short fun free training course will be held during the school day.Those trained will then be able to apply their new knowledge to their homeand share their skills with neighbours, families and friends. The first 10 peopleto join up will get a free limited edition Energetic stylish orange tshirt. Oakfield Primary School will be hosting an Energetic training event onThursday 25th November – more details from the Footprint Trust on 82-22-82.If your school would like to host one of these free e vents then please contactthe Trust. “Gas and electricity bills were over £1,000 in 2009 – a 30% increase infive years. The age of cheap energy is over. Household energy bills maydouble over the next five years. The Energetic project will help youngfamilies use fuel more efficiency. We have details of free and cheapinsulation for homes and deals on new heating systems.” “Those taking part could easily knock around £100 to £400 off theirenergy bills in the next year.” Said Ray Harrington-Vail of the Footprint Trust. The Energetic project also offers free home visits and a helpline – givingguidance on energy and water efficiency. More details by emailingray@footprint-trust.co.uk Tel. 01983 82-22-82. The Energetic project has been funded by the ScottishPower Energy PeopleTrust.

Energetic families set to win is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk

End to interest-free student loans Most will pay 1.5%, while 400,000 face 4.4% interest

Millions of borrowers with a student loan will no longer pay zero interest from next Wednesday (Sept 1). The interest rate will jump from 0% to 1.5% for 3.3 million students and graduates, it was confirmed today, while those who took out loans before 1998 will see rates increase from MINUS 0.4% to 4.4%.

The hike to 1.5% restores the link to the lower of the base rate + 1%, or last March’s RPI inflation (4.4%). Last year, the Government used a technicality to break this bond, and created a new clause preventing 1998-onward loans from matching deflation.

Alana Fitzpatrick, MoneySavingExpert.com money analyst, says:

“Due to the inflation link, student loans are the cheapest form of borrowing you’ll get – there’s no real cost as the most interest you’ll pay matches the rate of inflation.  In other words, if you borrowed enough to buy a trolley worth of food ten years ago, then the amount you repay should be the value of the same trolley of food now.

“This means if you have an outstanding student loan, as well as more expensive debts from banks or credit cards, it’s much cheaper to pay the latter off first.” For all the details, read the full news story at moneysavingexpert.com/studentloanrate

End to interest-free student loans is a post from: Isle of Wight - WightBlog.co.uk