Police on the Isle of Wight have admitted they are 'not sure we got it right', having confessed their 'disappointment' at Islanders for popping out to 'buy compost and plants' yesterday (Wednesday). As previously reported by Isle of Wight Radio, officers said the gardening items were not essential, having spotted residents out while on a routine patrol in Cowes.
On patrol in Cowes. Disappointed to see people out buying bags of compost and plants. This isn’t essential shopping or essential travel. Please follow the government guidance #StayHomeSaveLives pic.twitter.com/b9c0FfxYKh
— Isle of Wight Police (@IOWightPolice) April 1, 2020 This provoked a response from Isle of Wight Green Party spokesperson, and the Island's Green parliamentary candidate, Vix Lowthion. She argued: “Isn’t growing our own produce in our gardens an essential?” All non-essential shops have closed, however Government rules state home and hardware shops are permitted to be open. Isle of Wight Police have since said 'we are not always going to get it right' and have asked Islanders to 'bear with them': "On reflection we are not sure we got this quite right. Ultimately home and hardware stores are permitted to be open, and if you need items from stores that are permitted to be open we may still ask you about the purpose of your journey, but we will not be enforcing a ban on travelling to these stores. "The guidance from the government states that travel should only be for essential purposes, and there is a non exhaustive list as to what is essential. "The legislation and related guidance is new, and we are not always going to get it right so please do bear with us on this. We will continue to focus on engaging with our community, explaining the guidance and encouraging people to follow it where they can." Hardward store B&Q is classed as an essential retailer and is open for business, as previously reported. Want to know what is not open? Isle of Wight Radio has together a handy guide for you.
Hovertravel Services Remain Suspended Due To Unexploded Ordnance
Local Business Gives Back By Supporting Surf Charity
Local Energy Company Seeks Rooftops For Community Solar Projects
Who Will You Nominate For 50th Isle Of Wight Sports Achievement Awards?
Isle Of Wight Churches Launch Urgent Fundraising Appeal For Debt Help On The Island
Plans Afoot To Improve Isle Of Wight Cycling And Walking Routes
Appeal Following Report Of Assault In Cowes
Witness Appeal Following Fatal Incident On Isle Of Wight
Cowes RNLI Lifeboat Attends ‘Man In River’ Emergency
Wightlink Releases Statement Regarding Suspended Services
Changing Rooms: Shanklin Hotel Set For Upgrades
'Plagued' Ryde Farmhouse Set For Demolition
Leeson Road To Re-Open This Sunday
Supergrass, Jess Glynne And Busted Among Latest Acts Announced For Isle Of Wight Festival 2025
Inspectors Appointed For Island Planning Strategy Examination
Islanders Floating Bridge Views Sought
Two More Years Of Restoration Works Confirmed For Isle Of Wight Quarry
RSPCA Isle Of Wight Appeal Launched To Help Island's Most Vulnerable Animals This Christmas
Appeal For Information Following Assault At Crown Pub In Ryde
New Entrance And Kitchen Mooted For Freshwater Bay Hotel
