Island life to be shown on television's Countryfile

By Ross Findon

Friday, January 27, 2012

The Countryfile team filming the Isle of Wight Surf Club at Compton. Picture by Paul Blackley of Wight Surf History.

LIFE at Quarr Abbey and the Isle of Wight Surf Club came under the spotlight yesterday as the BBC Countryfile team filmed a forthcoming episode.

There was an early start for the crew at Quarr, where they had to get up at 5am, before finding out what life is like for the monks.

Presenter James Wong had the chance to get involved with tree-pruning and helping to look after the pigs.

The team also spent time with the Isle of Wight Surf Club at Compton where they spoke to Betty Trickett, widow of Island surf-pioneer Archie Trickett, who surfed on a home-made board until he was in his 70s.

She met current members of the Isle of Wight Surf Club and surfer Alan Reed had the chance to try out Archie’s board on the waves at Compton.

The episode is due to air on Sunday February 12.

Reporter: ross.findon@iwcp.co.uk