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NEW EVIDENCE ABOUT THE BENEFITS OF HOLIDAYS

We've all heard the phrase used about taking holidays to re-charge the batteries. Well, according to researchers at the University of Pittsburgh*, this is merely one of the many advantages related to taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the office.

The research programme has shown that people who take frequent breaks "are almost always more relaxed, weigh less, have lower blood pressure and gain more satisfaction from life". What's more, a change of environment is also very beneficial to the brain and the thinking process, leading to new innovation and thoughts of inspiration.

Located just two-hours travelling time from central London and three from The Midlands, the Isle of Wight is one such place where visitors can escape the stresses of modern life Its long, sandy beaches and green open spaces make it the perfect pick-me-up for those looking for some much-needed R&R.

Within minutes of arriving - ferries are every half an hour - you will find yourself relaxing into the Island's slower pace of life. Try walking along the seafront from Ryde to Seaview - much quieter since the kids have returned to school - and later sample the freshest of Island produce over lunch at one of the new farmshop cafes.

If you're visiting this October, there are plenty of events and activities to enjoy, including a music & arts festival in the delightful seaside town of Ventnor, plus a council-organised walking festival where you can get back to nature and explore the Island with others.

Alternatively, choose an establishment which offers accommodation combined with an activity like golf or yoga, or one with plenty of leisure facilities and fitness classes. You can even exercise your creative streak at the Island's Quay Arts centre, which has lots of workshops and sessions such as pottery, painting and jewellery, or opt for a residential art courses in a relaxed, rural setting. The islandbreaks website has full details, or telephone 01983 813813.

October events and activities:

Carisbrooke Castle Study Day
3 October, 10.30am to 3pm
Stone Studies: A look at building materials at Carisbrooke Castle. Talks, practical activities and a tour of the castle with archaeologist, Dr David Tomlin.
Cost: tickets £7 - for further details and to book a place, call 01983 523112, or e-mail chris.carismus@tiscali.co.uk, www.english-heritage.org.uk/isleofwight

Isle of Wight Marathon
4 October
Islandwide
Having been held annually since 1957, this is the longest running and one of the most challenging marathons in the UK. The course is a single lap, covering Ryde, Binstead, Wootton, Newport, Rookley, Arreton, Sandown, Brading and back to Ryde.
For more information, visit www.rydeharriers.co.uk

Wight Woodturners at Newtown (2-5pm)
Until 7 October
Newtown Old Town Hall
See examples of the Wight Woodturners work which is on display in the Old Town Hall in Newtown. The group was set up in 2002 to provide a forum for woodturners on the Island and increase the awareness of woodturning as an art and craft amongst the general public. So don't miss this opportunity to see first hand the results of this traditional craft - and who knows, you may be inspired to take it up yourself.
Cost: £2.10 (adults), £1.05 (children) £5.25 (family ticket). Tickets must be booked in advance, tel. 01983 741020.

Des O'Connor
10 October
Shanklin Theatre
For one night only - see this world-class star and ultimate entertainer at Shanklin Theatre.
Cost: tickets £24 - to book telephone the Box Office on 01983 868000, www.shanklintheatre.com

Putting the Town Hall to bed, starts 10.30am
12 October
Newtown Old Town Hall
Have you ever wondered what happens at National Trust properties during the winter months when they are closed to visitors? If so, come along to the talk being given by Rebecca Noyes, the Custodian of Newtown Old Town Hall for nearly 20 years, on this very subject.
Cost: £5 for the talk which will be held on the morning of 12 October. Tickets are limited so must be booked in advance, tel. 01983 741020.

Isle of Wight Bus Museum Annual Running Day
18 October, 10.30am to 5pm
Bus Museum, Newport Quay
Experience bus travel from an age when conductors were the norm and see an impressive display of vintage buses and coaches along Newport Quay with frequent bus excursions departing throughout the day.
www.iowbusmuseum.org.uk

V-Bay Festival
23-25 October
Ventnor
Three days of music, the arts, fine dining and family fun activities in the delightful seaside town of Ventnor. Note, the Esplanade will be closed to traffic 10am to 4pm.
Cost: Some ticketed events - see website for full details, www.ventnorbay.co.uk/events

Isle of Wight Walking Festival Autumn Weekend
23-26 October
Islandwide
From amblers to ramblers with over fifty walks in the programme, the festival offers visitors a wide choice of walks, giving them the chance to enjoy the spectacular colours of autumn. Wherever you roam, you will find inspiration at every turn, so make sure you make a date in your diary to take time out to enjoy our autumnal walks.
Cost: Mostly free, visit the website for full details, www.isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk

*http://www.tourism-review.com/article/1820-new-evidence-about-the-benefits-of-holidays