The Christchurch Directory - June 2014

The Christchurch

Directory

The independent directory of local businesses serving the residents of Christchurch, Mudeford, Friars Cliff and Burton

Christchurch

Delivered FREE around the town

June/July 2014

In this issue: Win tickets to see Ghost, The Musical at Regent Centre New Mayor of Christchurch sworn in LawSpot with Harold G Walker Christchurch & East Dorset launch electric cars Dorset Wildlife Trust: Darting Dragonflies Adventures of Nellie Photo: Kirstie Darke

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Christchurch

4

The Christchurch Directory Welcome...

Edition 93

Published by:

Debbie & Stephen Corney at Dorset Publications

Telephone:

01202 894397

Email:

info@thechristchurchdirectory.co.uk

Copy deadline for the July 2014 edition: 25th June 2014

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in this publication is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

The Christchurch Directory does not officially endorse any advertising material included within the publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form, without prior permission of the publisher.

Cover Photo: Christchurch Ruins

by Kirstie Darke

Dear Christchurch, Bargates, Mudeford, Burton and Friars Cliff!

We have an information and fun packed Directory for you this month. Please read our short story written by local writer Paula Williamson. I hadn’t read it, and Stephen told me he liked it, apparently even from a man’s perspective it made him smile. So I read it too and yes, he was right...and so is Paula (from my viewpoint). I am off to the wardrobe right away!

There is also an interesting article about electric cars, Martin Lewis has some good advice, the Regent’s Centre has a new summer brochure, Nellie had a top to toe polish, Harold G Walker answer your Legal questions and we have a new Mayor for Christchurch!

There is a lot going on. Of course there is our usual prize wordsearch and the winner last month, to see Bournemouth Concert Brass at the Regent Centre is Roy Stevens - we hope you have a wonderful night out. This month was also have a special competition to win tickets to see Broadway Showtunes at the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth on page 20.

Our local trades and service people would all love to hear from you. Keeping the work local hugely helps our economy, which keeps all the wheels turning. If you have used one of our advertisers and want to let us know how good they were, please email or send us the data. We can publish this for them for others to see. If you have a company yourself and want to advertise locally then please let us know too. We do give free space to local charities and clubs so please get in touch and let us help you.

Stephen and I hope you have a great month of June and the weather is good so we can all get out and about.

Best wishes,

Debbie & Stephen Corney Useful Numbers

Local Police Southern Electricity Transco Gas Emergency Christchurch. Hospital

101 08457 708090 0800 111999 01202 486361

Train Enquires Christchurch Council Sembcorp Water Christchurch Library

08457 484950 01202 495000 01202 590059 01202 485938

5 

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Community News

6

Cllr Denise Jones sworn in as Mayor of Christchurch Cllr Denise Jones has been sworn in as Mayor of Christchurch at the annual meeting of Christchurch Borough Council.

Denise was born in the West Riding of Yorkshire but moved to Lancashire with her parents when she was five. From a very early age Denise wanted to teach and, having gained a BA with honours in History at Liverpool University, she went on to achieve her Teacher’s Certificate.

At the age of 24, she became one of the youngest Heads of History in the country when she was appointed at Elmslie Girls’ School in Blackpool.

In 1981 she married David, also a History teacher, but unfortunately she developed multiple sclerosis and had to take medical retirement. In time she became involved in local issues, becoming Secretary of the local Conservative Ward Committee, and led the fight for a new hospital in the area.

When David’s job brought them south in 1990 she kept her interest in politics and fought Grange Ward in 1999 and again in 2003. In 2007 she was elected Councillor, and was reelected in 2011. She is well-known as an active campaigner and has inspired the community to work together and with partners such as Sovereign to prevent unacceptable development, provide much-needed but welldesigned housing, and to establish a new Community Centre which is due to open in June 2014.

Denise has always been passionate about heritage and from her time at Liverpool University saw the merits and great potential of conserving the country’s industrial heritage. Other causes she has championed include the problems faced by the disabled and the elderly.

Her consort will be her husband, Cllr David Jones.

Cllr Denise Jones said: “I would like to thank the Council for electing me. I consider it a most tremendous honour.

I will work to promote Christchurch to the best of my ability during my mayoral year.”

Her nominated charities are The Royal British Legion Christchurch branch, Dorset Cancer Centre and Somerford Arc, a new community centre.

Cllr Nick Geary was elected to serve as Deputy Mayor.

Outgoing Mayor, Cllr John Lofts, handing over the chain of office to Cllr Denise Jones

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Christchurch

Photo: Richard Lock

Here’s a new FUN page for you!

8

Where is Nellie?

Do you know the South of England? Can you recognise these places?

These are just some of the sights that Nellie, the rather large Dorset Publications Campervan has travelled to in just the last month! The answers are at the bottom of the page so you can immediately see if you are right.

Most are easy, but one or two maybe a challenge‌? Have a go and see how many places you know! You can also follow her... whereisnellie @whereisnellie

1

3

2

4

1. Monkey World, nr Wareham 2. Merley House, nr Poole 3. Sandy Balls Holiday Park, New Forest 4. Emery Down Village Hall, nr Lyndhurst

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Excellent care for every patient... every day, everywhere We started 2014 focusing on a new direction for our organisation; to consistently provide high quality care across all of our services. We focused on shaping a new vision (or aim) for our hospitals and redefining what is important to us as we go about our daily work – our values.

Our values are shared beliefs that are important in the way we work. They impact on what we do and say, how we say it and how we look when we speak to patients, carers and each other. We worked with 300 members of staff, public and patients through workshops and surveys to redefine both our vision and our values.

We want to deliver excellent care for every patient, every day, everywhere. To do this, we will endeavour to live by four key values: Communicate - Say it, Hear it, Do it! We take time to listen, asking open questions to better understand and keep us all informed.

Improve - Change it! We always look for ways to improve what we do.

Teamwork - Share it! We are one team working together to achieve the best outcome for everyone.

Pride - Show it! We are proud of who we are and the care we provide together.

There are staff across our hospitals who already live by these values every day. Our aim is to ensure that we all live by them every day and for every patient.

In the Developing our Values workshops you told us you would like to be able to recognise the efforts of our staff. Here are just two of the ways you can do just that: #ThankYou! We have launched #ThankYou! – an online staff recognition site which enables you to thank a member of staff that you think deserves recognition for the care you have received. It takes two minutes of your time to submit a thank you and we will make sure the individual is aware of your nomination. You can access #ThankYou at www.rbch.nhs.uk Nominate your unsung hero Do you know an individual or team that works tirelessly in our hospitals, goes the extra mile or has made an outstanding contribution? If so you can now nominate them for an Unsung Hero Award as part of our 2014 Pride Awards. Enter online at www.rbch.nhs.uk

Christchurch

Gary Cupin, Housekeeping Assistant Communicate - Say it, Hear it, Do it!

“On Ward 11 the whole multidisciplinary team builds a rapport with patients and their families to ensure they’re fully aware of any changes in their care and treatment.”

Marie Miller, Practice Educator, Ward 10/11

Improve - Change it!

“Our clinical and IT staff are joining forces to improve patient care and enhance practice. We have successfully implemented eNEWs, which enables patients to have their condition monitored via an electronic system. It automatically alerts staff if they start to deteriorate, enabling a quicker clinical response, improving safety and enhancing patient care.” Lisa Brinkman, IT Specialist Nurse

Teamwork - Share it!

“In March some of our doctors organised a number of sport challenges at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital to stimulate some inter-professional and interdisciplinary team working outside of the wards. We had a good turnout and raised over £200 for charity.” Tamsin Lillie, Junior Doctors’ President

Pride - Show it!

Every month staff working in our Emergency Department nominate a member of the housekeeping team to acknowledge who has taken pride in their work and gone above and beyond their duties. Gary Cupin, the nominee for May, said: “Taking pride in my work for me means being happy and satisfied when my area is clean.”

10 10

Wildlife News

Talking about Wildlife...

Darting Dragonflies With summer at long last here it is rewarding to watch some of the richly coloured wildlife that is now about, such as the dragonflies and damselflies darting about over our ponds and water courses. Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is carrying out surveys of these short-lived species in the Purbeck region, during the coming months.

Having been living as larvae in a water bed, sometimes for a number of years, once hatched these ephemeral fliers may survive for only a few weeks; even the largest dragonflies, for example, will live for a maximum period of two months only. The survey last month revealed some of the first of the species to be on the wing, such as the Large Red and Azure damselflies, Banded Damoiselles, as well as the Four Spotted Chaser dragonfly.

Ali Quinney, carrying out the surveys for DWT, says, “On our first day of recording we were fortunate to have a really calm, bright sunny day, the perfect conditions in which to spot these beautiful creatures. Later we shall expect to see Darters, various Hawkers and hopefully some rarities; on Tadnoll Brook, the chalk stream that runs through our Tadnoll & Winfrith heathland nature reserve, we may well see Golden Ringed dragonflies.”

Azure Damselfly by Ken Dolbear MBE

Four Spotted Chaser by Ken Dolbear MBE It is often asked how one can spot the difference between a dragonfly and a damselfly. The former has a more robust body shape and flies faster, whereas the latter is more slender and dainty in its movements, tending to ‘float’ rather than to fly. Another distinguishing factor is to watch when they settle, when the dragonfly stays poised with wings outspread and the damselfly retracts its wings over its body length.

Work is to continue at DWT’s Tadnoll & Winfrith reserve, subject to planning approval, to create two more scrapes there, to encourage more of these species and other water orientated wildlife. The survey work that is now taking place is proving greatly beneficial to our existing knowledge of the wildlife in the area and all records are passed to Dorset Environmental Records Centre (DERC). Any ad-hoc reports of both dragonflies and damselflies sightings, especially if accompanied by good quality photographic images, may be sent to the Dorset Dragonfly Group at: www.dorsetdragonflies.org.uk/recording For more information about dragonflies, damselflies or other wildlife please contact DWT on 01305 264620 or visit our website: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk

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Christchurch

12

Law Spot ...providing the answers

to your legal questions

Every month the solicitors and lawyers at Harold G Walker will be providing answers to your questions about the law.

I’m replacing my broken fence but my neighbour says it’s in the wrong place and he’s going to make a complaint.

before commencing work so as to ensure difficulties do not later arise either as regards the materials used or the position and placement of new posts, fences or walls.

The most common reason for conflict between neighbours is a dispute over a boundary. Boundary disputes can be lengthy, costly and often difficult to resolve.

Some may even be tempted not to restore, for example a damaged hedge and to take the opportunity to scrub it out altogether and reinstate in some other form. Early discussions and sensitivity towards adjoining owners is essential to avoid misunderstandings and disputes. It is often forgotten that frequently a fence or hedge that has become overgrown does not necessarily delineate the true boundary between properties.

In the spate of the recent atrocious weather, many boundary fences will have been blown over. Trees will have fallen damaging hedges, fences and brick walls.

Insurance policies may not respond in all cases and the responsibility will lie with the tree, fence or wall owner or joint owners to effect repairs and to restore the boundaries.

Hugh Storry Deans Dispute Resolution

Frequently the precise location of the boundary will be obvious and communication with any adjoining owners is essential

My personal circumstances have changed. Can I make alterations to my existing will?

We would advise you to make a completely new Will if you need to make an alternation to an existing Will. You can revoke your Last Will at any time by destroying it or making a new Will.

You can make alterations to your Will by adding a codicil which is a mini Will but if the alterations are extensive then it would be advisable for you to prepare a new Will altogether.

Do not under any circumstances attempt to write in any additions or make an alteration to your Last Will yourself after it has been prepared. Do not permanently pin, staple or clip anything to your Last Will.

If agreement cannot be reached, the best way to determine the legal boundary is by looking at the oldest conveyance deed of the property. Subject to the wording of the deed, the plan attached to the conveyance may have measurements, a description of the boundary in question or “T” marks showing who owns a boundary feature. These days however the deeds are not always available.

It is always sensible to periodically review the provisions contained in the Last Will to consider if any change in your circumstances has altered the contents of your Will.

Changes can flow from a variety of events such as if you marry or divorce; the birth or adoption of children; a significant change to your financial status; a desire to add or change beneficiaries; or the death or incapacity of a named Executor or Trustee.

Lastly steer away from home made Wills and always seek legal advice with regard to any changes you need to make.

Rebecca Suthers

Wills & Probate Lawyer

Send your questions by email to LawSpot@hgwalker.co.uk

Law Spot is brought to you by Harold

G Walker

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There is no guarantee that your question will be used and you will not get a personal response.The answers in this feature are for guidance purposes only and do not constitute legal advice.

13

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Tuscany Blinds are a family run business covering Dorset and Hampshire. We have over 30 years experience in the supply and fitting of all types of blinds, from simple roller blinds to complex conservatory blinds. We source the best products available and supply and fit at very competitive prices.

Tuscany’s experienced staff will come to your home or business at a time to suit; daytime, evening or weekend and advise on all aspects of the supply and installation. All prices include a full survey, fitting and VAT. We want to inspire you to change your window coverings to suit your needs. Rest assured with Tuscanys extensive range of fashionable designs and contemporar y solutions your house will become a home.

Windo w Shutters combine exceptional style and sophistication with outstanding light-controlling properties, Tuscany window shutters enhance your windows and enrich the décor like no other home shading products.

Also known as Plantation Shutters because of their classic colonial influenced design, our window shutters are perfectly at home in any property and every room. From a contemporary townhouse to a country manor, from a lounge or bedroom to a bathroom or kitchen, Tuscany shutters always add class and a touch of distinction.

Each shutter is individually handcrafted, using superior

materials, to perfectly complement your window styles, shapes and colour themes. The slim louvre design enables simple and effective control of sunlight and privacy depending on your requirements and can even reduce exterior noise.

Venetian window blinds are a practical and stylish way of regulating the amount of light and heat coming into any room.. They’re simple yet striking, and give you effortless and responsive control over glare, shade and ambience.

The slats of the blinds are angled by you to control just how much or

how little sunlight you want to let in or keep out, and you can angle the slats to give you privacy too, so you’re in complete control.

Tuscany offer a fantastic range of impressive wooden blinds.

Our excellent choice of natural wood tones can help you create a calm and relaxing ambience that instantly makes any room feel warmer and more inviting. And if you’re seeking a slightly bolder style statement, look no further than our range of versatile painted shades available in a wide variety of colours and finishes.

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you select the right choice of roof and side blinds to make the most of your conservatory, orangery or sunroom, and by choosing Tuscany to supply and install them you can also make sure you are being guided and supplied from a professional company with years of experience.

Conservatory window blinds from Tuscany will instantly transform and enhance the style of any room to make it an even more beautiful and desirable addition to your home. The advanced functional design of our superior quality conservatory window blinds will give you greater control over light, shade, temperature and privacy.

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Tuscany Awnings supply a wide range of styles and designs from world leading manufacture Weinor. Whilst shading your important curtains and carpets, you can extend your living area into the garden for those warm alfresco evenings. With a range of 56 Standard Frame colours, 150 fabric colours and the option of automatic sun and wind sensors, LED lighting and Heating Tuscany has the perfect awning for any situation Call Tuscany today on 01202 848628 or email info@tuscanyblinds.com to arrange your FREE consultation and begin to transform your windows into something special.

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16

14. BE WORTHY OF TRUST Unless one can have confidence in the reliability of those about one, he himself is at risk. When those he counts upon let him down, his own life can become disordered and even his own survival can be put at risk.

Mutual trust is the firmest building block in human relationships. Without it, the whole structure comes down.

Trustworthiness is a highly esteemed commodity.

When one has it, one is considered valuable. When one has lost it, one may be considered worthless.

One should get others around one to demonstrate it and earn it. They will become much more valuable to themselves and others thereby.

14-1. KEEP YOUR WORD ONCE GIVEN When one gives an assurance or promise or makes a sworn intention, one must make it come true. If one says he is going to do something, he should do it. If he says he is not going to do something, he should not do it.

One’s regard for another is based, in no small degree, on whether or not the person keeps his or her word. Even parents, for instance, would be surprised at the extent they drop in the opinion of their children when a promise is not kept.

People who keep their word are trusted and admired. People who do not are regarded like garbage.

Those who break their word often never get another chance.

A person who does not keep his word can soon find himself entangled and trapped in all manner of “guarantees” and “restrictions” and can even find himself shut off from normal relations with others. There is no more thorough self-exile from one’s fellows than to fail to keep one’s promises once made.

One should never permit another to give his or her word lightly. And one should insist that when a promise is made, it must be kept. One’s own life can become very disordered in trying to associate with people who do not keep their promises. It is not a casual matter.

The way to happiness is much, much easier to travel with people one can trust.

This is an excerpt from The Way to Happiness book, for information about this book and programs go to www.twth.org © 2014 DORSET PUBLICATIONS. All Rights Reserved.

Grateful acknowledgement is made to L. Ron Hubbard Library for permission to reproduce a selection from the copyrighted works of L. Ron Hubbard. THE WAY TO HAPPINESS and the ‘Road and Sun’ design are trademarks owned by L. Ron Hubbard Library in the USA and in other countries (trademark registrations issued and other registrations pending) and are used with permission.

17

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   

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Christchurch

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Completely Different

And Now For Something W

ould you expect the David Rees-Williams Jazz Trio or the BackBeat Percussion Quartet to be performing in Christchurch’s ancient Priory Church? Probably not, but these are just two of the musical delights included in the Priory’s week-long Music and Arts Festival which begins on 15th June.

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here are also daytime recitals. The Bournemouth Symphony Youth Chorus perform in celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the Friends of Christchurch Priory; Hugh Morris and Phil Gibbs play baroque music in the Great Quire; Michael Broadway hooks up his amazing pianola push-up machine to the Priory’s Yamaha piano; Geoffrey Morgan gives a recital of British organ music on the 4,000-pipe Nicholson organ; and the celebrated young pianist Karim Said returns to the Priory for the third time, joined by the Iris Ensemble (all young international stars) to present a varied programme of music. Stephanie Liney, a Highcliffe resident, will be playing the harp in St John’s Mission Church, Purewell, for the final daytime recital.

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his is the first Festival on this scale staged in the Priory. The Priory attracts nearly 100,000 visitors to this area each year, and this is a great way of enhancing the experience of visiting the Priory and the town. Hugh Morris, Director of Music at the Priory, was keen to embrace as many musical styles as possible so there is something for everyone to enjoy: and the opportunity to try something completely different! ther evening concerts feature the Scott Brothers, a Chethams School-educated duo who play transcriptions of classical favourites on the organ and piano (including Saint-Saens’ iconic ‘Carnival of the Animals’); the Christchurch Priory Choirs (with a selection of music they sing at services and the second performance of a newly-commissioned anthem) and on the 21st June there is a gala performance of Mendelssohn’s ‘Elijah’ given by the Bournemouth Bach Choir and Orchestra and the Highcliffe Junior Choir. On Wednesday 18th June the Alani String Quartet will be performing favourite chamber music by Mozart, Vivaldi and Dvorak at St George’s Church, Jumpers.

chools have also been included: the Priory’s ancient walls will be decorated with artwork from the four schools in the Parish, and the Scott Brothers and BackBeat are leading music workshops.

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he Priory’s special vestments will be displayed near the High Altar, for once giving the public the opportunity to examine them in detail.

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he newly-opened Cloisters Cafe is open daily from 10am-4pm offering a range of beverages, daily lunch specials and lite bites, and can cater for evening meals as well (if booked in advance by telephoning the Priory).

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ull details of the Festival are on the Priory’s web site:-

www.christchurchpriory.org A link from this site connects to the Regent Centre, which is providing ticketing facilities for all evening performances: all daytime events are free, with a retiring collection.

Christchurch Rents:

19

What’s been happening since the Credit Crunch?

It might surprise some readers that the average rent, that tenants have had to pay for a property in Christchurch, is only 6% higher Jeremy Clarke than the previous peak of 2008. After Autumn/Winter of 2008, throughout the UK, there was a major dip in the rents that were being achieved of around 10% to 15%. However, in Christchurch, that dip was only around 5% and since 2010 and the credit crunch, rents have steadily risen by around 1.5% to 2% a year and by 2013 rolling into 2014, a lack of decently presented stock available to rent means rental averages are, in the main, continuing to rise.

Looking at this in greater detail, the average rent in Christchurch in 2008 was £804 per month. In 2009, this dropped to £766 per month (a 5% drop as mentioned above).

Rents steadily rose in the next two years and it took until 2012 until rents broke the 2008 peak, reaching £831 per month. Rental levels are primarily driven by affordability and therefore by tenants wages. That is why in rents stagnated in 2013 at £832 per month in the town because of the squeeze on Christchurch wages.

However, due in part to the demand of tenants from Bournemouth who are happy to commute, there are still plenty of tenants willing to pay for well maintained properties in nice locations, and as we find ourselves over a third of the way into 2014, with wage rises coming through for some tenants and the extra demand from people willing to commute to Bournemouth, the average rent in Christchurch has risen to £852 per month (a decent rise of nearly 2.5% year on year).

From a landlord perspective, the steady rise in rents is good news, as ideally rents need to keep up with inflation to maintain investment returns. With yields of around 4% a year in the town and property prices in Christchurch also rising by 15.7% in the last 5 years (after the large fall in 2008 after the credit crunch), maybe Christchurch could be one of the few areas across the UK where it might be possible to secure capital growth returns and potentially higher income (yields) in the future.

Feel free to pop through the door of our new offices on Bargates or send me an email to jeremy.clarke@belvoirlettings.com.

Jeremy Clarke Belvoir 01202 588920

Christchurch

READER COMPETITION

20

BROADWAY showtunes If you’re in need of a lively, fun-filled and dynamic night out, then Bournemouth’s Pavilion Theatre is the place to be on Thursday to Saturday night 17th to 19th July 2014 to see the talented and artistic performers of Big Little Theatre School in ‘BROADWAY SHOWTUNES’.

The show features vibrant and highly talented professionally trained musical theatre students aged between eight and nineteen presenting song and dance from some of the most famous and dramatic shows of all time including hits from Wicked, Hairspray, 42nd Street, Blood Brothers, Fiddler on the Roof, Lion King, Joseph, Pinocchio and many more…

2012 & 2013 REVIEWS ‘Opening night saw the audience on its feet’ ‘Big Little’s annual Showtunes production has made its mark as one of the most entertaining events on the Bournemouth calendar’ ‘Two hours flew by as the audience revelled in the top quality vocals, lively dance routines and imaginative direction’ BOURNEMOUTH ECHO ‘Like it? I loved it! One couldn’t ask for more.’

‘My daughter was absolutely entranced by the whole show. What a treat for the last day of term!’

AUDIENCE FEEDBACK For more information or to book tickets please contact The Pavilion Box Office on 0844 576 3000 or via the website at www.bhlivetickets.co.uk Big Little Theatre School Tel: 01202 434499 • www.biglittle.biz TICKETS from £12 - Concessions available BIG LITTLE THEATRE SCHOOL PRESENTS

Thu 17th - Sat 19th July 2014 at 7.30pm BH Live Tickets: 0844 576 3000* Groups (10+): 01202 451865

www.bhlivetickets.co.uk TICKETS: From £12* Concessions available

/broadwayshowtunes

The prize on offer is a family ticket for four to see the show on Thursday 17th July at the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth, so please complete this form by 25th June and send to: *Ticket price includes 7.5% service charge. Tickets purchased by cash or debit card at one of our Ticket Offices (BIC or Pavilion) will not incur these charges. Telephone charges apply.

Showtunes Reader Competition Name: The Christchurch Directory, Address: 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, BH22 0JR Telephone:

www.broadwayshowtunes.co.uk

@biglittlenews

______________________ ______________________ ______________________ ______________________ ______________________

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Christchurch

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Recipe

Tastes so good...

PIZZA TURNOVERS

©image Nigel Maisey

Ideal for a lunchbox filler, picnic or afternoon snack, this twist on a traditional pizza turns this dish into something that resembles a blend of a Cornish pasty and savoury pastry. Serve with a crisp green salad for a larger meal.

Ingredients:

Equipment: Flat tray, covered with baking parchment

500g packet ready roll puff pastry 1 egg 1 onion 400g tub passata ½ green pepper 2 tablespoons cooking oil 2 tablespoons tomato puree Pepper and salt Teaspoon oregano 5 thinly sliced mushrooms 4 slices of ham chopped 250g Grated Mozzarella cheese

Method: Flat tray, covered with baking parchment To make the pizza sauce, chop the onion and pepper finely and put in a pan with the oil on a medium heat.

When the onion is soft add the passata and the tomato puree, stir in well, add the oregano and salt and pepper and leave to simmer for 5 minutes.

When cooked take off the stove and leave to cool.

Take the puff pastry and roll onto a floured surface about 3-4 mm thick. Cut into 12 equal squares.

Beat the egg in a cup and brush the squares.

Spoon the tomato sauce diagonally along each square, place on the sliced mushrooms and the chopped ham.

Place a handful of mozzarella cheese on each square and in the opposite corners and squeeze them to seal in the filling. Place on a baking sheet.

Brush the outside with egg and bake on the middle shelf in the oven until pastry is golden brown and cooked underneath.

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Wo0r1l4d Cup 2

12th June - 13th July

!

Go Football Crazy

•Pub & Bar Decs •Theme Decs •Fancy Dress •Novelties... ...and plenty more in store!

t:01202 4893

61

Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 9am to 6pm Plenty of FREE Parking!

Christchurch

Reid St, Christchurc h

BH23 2BT

St Thomas Garnet’

Giving your child the bes

We’re a local independent school f with faith, family and community at

St Thomas Garnet’s School, Parkwood Road, Bosco

tel: 01202 420172 www.stthomasgarnets.co.uk en

’s School

st start in life

for children aged 3 - 11 t our core

ombe, Bournemouth, BH5 2BH

nquiries@stthomasgarnets.co.uk

find us on facebook

26 At St Thomas Garnet’s we take pride in the broad and enriching education we provide for our children. Our strong academic, music and languages curriculum are delivered by highly experienced and expert teaching. As a result, we realise every individual’s potential.

Each child has the opportunity to learn a range of instruments and they are able to extend their ability through our Orchestra and Bands. A unique aspect of our school is the presence of the Big Little Theatre School on our site who not only work with our children to prepare for LAMDA examinations but who also lead a brilliant ‘Arts Week’ every year culminating in a fully choreographed musical.

We possess and nurture both a family and community atmosphere at St Thomas Garnet’s. Many of our current parents are

former pupils and we value the important relationship between home and school.

We know it is important for our parents to have flexibility when choosing their child’s lunch option. Our cooked lunches are freshly prepared on site and are of the highest standard.

At St Thomas Garnet’s, our children have access to spacious grounds which enable excellent development of sport and outdoor learning.

I look forward to showing you around our wonderful school so you can experience first - hand what we can offer your child.

Sarah Breeze, Headteacher St Thomas Garnet’s School Giving your child the best start in life

St Thomas Garnet’s School, Parkwood Road, Boscombe, Bournemouth, BH5 2BH tel: 01202 420172 www.thomasgarnets.com enquiries@thomasgarnets.com

Quirky millinery will feature in a forthcoming Art Exhibition at The Hayloft Gallery, 14 Wick Lane, Christchurch which runs from 11-31 July.

This year painters Susan Knights and Linda Patterson have invited Pip Muddell, Hatmaker Extraordinaire, to join them alongside Ann Davison who creates jewellery using natural stones and textile artist Brenda Weeks at their annual summer exhibition.

The Hayloft Gallery is situated on the corner of Wick Lane and Silver Street, directly opposite the entrance to the Regent Centre Car Park and is a popular gallery exhibiting the work of local artists.

FREE Daily Entry

Both Susan’s loose watercolours and Linda’s oil paintings are greatly sought after and held in private collections in this country and abroad, as are Brenda’s lively vibrant textiles. The exhibition will also include a special sale of retrospective work – a rare opportunity to purchase an individual and unique piece of artwork at a bargain price!

For further information contact: Susan Knights 01202 481099 susanknights@hotmail.co.uk Brenda Weeks 01202 428004 brendaweeks@btopenworld.com

hap

we’re an school w commu

we offer

• academi • smaller of pasto • specialis the perf Garnet A Big Littl • generou sporting • well res classroo • experien teaching • breakfas after sch

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   

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 

Christchurch

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Adventures of Nellie

The Adventures of Nellie The Dorset Publications Camper Van Harry at Top Shine Valet had done such a great job in valeting my little blue Citroen recently that we thought Nellie deserved a polish after all her hard work. (She has been a very busy girl!)

Harry absolutely takes pride in doing the best job possible for his clients. He uses high quality wax and pays attention to detail, including painting the wheels to give a very professional finish.

Nellie has never looked so good! A top to toe, full manicure, pedicure and facial in fact… including a deep clean massage. All from a dishy looking young bloke! What more could a girl want?

Harry has these tips and advice for you when cleaning your car or van…

“When washing your car ensure you start from the top, going down and leaving the lower parts till last as this is were most of the dirt collects.

“Avoid using a sponge as small pieces of grit and dirt will stay in the pores of it and make fine, swirl like scratches on your vehicle. As an alternative use a lambs wool or microfibre wash mit. These are less likely to pick up abrasive grit.

“Avoid washing in direct sunlight as you will find that your soap will dry quickly. Wash in the shade.

The paintwork is cooler and you will have more time to clean without having to worry about your

Harry gets a deep shine on Nellie soap leaving stubborn drying marks and spots.

“Rinse the vehicle with clean water first to remove excess mud and grit. When you have finished do not throw the remainder of your wash bucket over the vehicle. Instead use a chamois or microfibre drying towel.

“Do not use washing up liquid or detergents as they strip wax from your paintwork and speed up oxidation and fading of the paintwork. This could even contribute towards rust. Instead use a high quality PH neutral shampoo that gives a nice glossy finish.”

So, if you want a really good clean to your car both

Harry and his van with Nellie all spruced up

29 29 inside and out then Nellie highly recommends Top Shine Valeting. She was so shiny after her waxing that the whole house could be seen in reflection in her paint. It was quite remarkable.

There is a £10 discount on a full valet and a £5 discount on a mini-valet available if you mention ‘Nellie at Dorset Publications’, so don’t miss out on the offer!

You can contact Harry at Top Shine Valeting on 01202 855933 or 07825 157200. Also take a look at his website at www.topshinevaleting.com.

We deliberately had Nellie polished by Harry at Top Shine Valeting especially for our great weekend at the Vdub at the Pub Festival last month! Though Nellie isn’t a VW she is rather cute, if somewhat overweight. She really shined amongst the other vans!

The atmosphere in the Wimborne FC area was great: friendly, family orientated, spirit of play and the sun was shining! Hayden found two friends and they spent their time running around, playing games, on and off the bouncy castles, body zorbing and even watching a film in the friend’s converted VW. Stephen and I had time to lay around and sunbathe which I have to say is a rarity. We weren’t as prepared as usual though having worked on the magazines almost right up to leaving. This was definitely a lesson to learn! What I had done, I had very carefully packed the food…salad, tinned tuna, hot dogs, beans, all in preparation for our Nellie picnics.

Arrrr! Hayden after seeing Alfredo El Mago

Christchurch

Meeting Fiffi at Vdub at the Pub What I hadn’t done was pack the tin opener or any pans! It is amazing how needed they were with what I had packed, and salad for breakfast, lunch and dinner just gets boring. Fortunately there was a food tent and the breakfast there was a welcome sight. The neighbours in the caravan behind us were really accommodating too and lent us a pan for the evening, so the hot dogs didn’t go to waste. Anyway, what we have decided to do now, in light of this experience, is have two of everything, one set in Nellie and a separate set in the house. That way I don’t have to worry about it! It is all a learning curve as the saying goes…

Hayden slept the best he has done that night in Nellie. The last time we went camping in the New Forest, Hayden had developed tooth ache literally just before leaving and that was an interesting night with him up every hour and then a trip to the dentists. This time all was well and we all slept until after 8am. Hoorah!

There were some really interesting vans at this Festival and one of the cutest was Fiffi the Ice Cream Van! What a great idea. On the sunny day we had she was a very popular van to visit!

So camping at a festival was a new experience for us and one we really enjoyed. Live music, family fun and a great atmosphere. Nellie highly recommends it. Where will Nellie go next…?

By Debbie Corney whereisnellie

@whereisnellie

Puzzle Corner

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Crossword

Across 1 Cooks with water vapor (6) 4 Lame (8) 10 Tongue-in-cheek (9) 11 A Siouan people (5) 12 Acclaim (5) 13 Gives evidence (9) 14 Voter (7) 16 Uttered aloud (4) 19 Wise men (4) 21 Incapable (7) 24 Souvenirs (9) 25 Dance bar (5) 26 An emperor of Japan (5) 27 Translate (9) 28 Less than expected (8) 29 Guided (6)

Down 1 Endured (8) 2 Surpassed (8) 3 Short choral composition (5) 5 Asserts (7) 6 A native of Australia (9)

7 Introductory section to a story (2 words) (6) 8 In fancy clothes (6) 9 He works with clay (6) 15 Carry (9) 17 Determined the size or amount (8)

8

1 1

4

3 1

2

7

3

5

GLARING GASSIER GLASSES

6 7

8

1

4

G

G

7 9 8

6 4

18 Accompanied (8) 20 Intimation (7) 21 Makes angry (6) 22 Ice or roller (6) 23 Hut (6) 25 Song of mourning (5)

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Looking for a little more?

Successful local business man is looking for 5 working partners to work part time from home without compromising current work or family commitments.

If you have a supervisory, managerial, recruitment, sales, marketing or self-employed background and would like to build a significant income so that you can take control of your life, please call me NOW!

Call Peter on 07947 685785 or 01202 822035 for further information Christchurch

32 32

auto Motoring

BIOGRAPHIES

FIAT 500L Trekking 1.6 Multijet

By Tim Barnes-Clay, Motoring Writer

www.carwriteups.co.uk

@carwriteups

The Fiat 500L Trekking combines a fashionable look with special grip gadgetry called Traction+, which helps the car handle difficult and dicey surfaces.

Under conditions of low or zero traction, the system detects slip, making it easy to maintain directional stability and control. The car is slow and cumbersome to begin with, but the technology certainly inspires confidence during bad driving conditions.

wheels which were fitted with mud and snow tyres.To emphasise its outdoor disposition, the Fiat also has specific front and rear bumpers, a skid-plate and fog lights which help give it a rugged look.

The fresh model offers the same functional and practical qualities of the standard Fiat 500L, but has a more upright look. This is because the Italian automaker has raised the car’s suspension to enable it to drive over rough ground more effectively.

If you’re concerned about the wellbeing of you and your passengers then the Fiat will certainly tick your box. It’s one of the safest motors on the road today, as demonstrated by its prestigious Euro NCAP 5-star rating. In fact the 500L Trekking is the first car in the Fiat range to provide City Brake Control as standard. This system is designed to reduce the effects of low-speed collision in traffic. It’s clever stuff.

Features on the 500L includes a touchscreen radio with Bluetooth, six airbags, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), cruise control, leather gearknob and steering wheel, dual zone climate control, side mouldings, parking sensors, electric windows, automatic lights with rain sensors, front fog lights and rear armrest. The Fiat also has hightech fabric seat upholstery with eco-leather inserts.

Overall, the big Fiat is a robust motor and will appeal to style conscious families who need the space for five people combined with functionality and practicality. Just don’t expect awesome acceleration and certainly allow yourself lots of time to overtake. With a 0-62mph pace of 12 seconds, life can get a little frustrating behind the sluggish, albeit inoffensive wheel of the Fiat 500L 1.6 MultiJet 105hp Trekking.

To be honest, all that the 500LTrekking lacks is a built in sat-nav. Other than that, my flagship test model came loaded with kit including 17” alloy

FAST FACTS PROS ‘N’ CONS Grippy√  Max speed: 109mph Safe√  0-62 mph: 12.0 secs Stylish√  Combined mpg: 60.1 No built in sat-navX  Engine: 1598cc 4 cylinder 16 valve SlowX diesel

 

Max. power (bhp): 105 at 3750 rpm

 

CO2: 122 g/km

Max. torque (Ib/�): 236 at 1750 rpm Price: £19,590 on the road

DW 2014 90 X 128

28/4/14

11:10

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 Christchurch

*** +,+ -

What’s On

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What’s On at...

Wed 11, Fri 13, & Sat 14 June 2.30pm & 7.30pm

AMAZING SPIDER-MAN 2 (12A) 2D Thur 12 June 7pm, Tickets: £13 Concs £12 Live by satellite on screen

NT Live: A SMALL FAMILY BUSINESS Sun 15, Mon 16 & Tue 17 June 7.30pm Celia Imrie, Timothy Spall Pierce Brosnan, Emma Thompson Mats: 2.30pm Mon 16, Tues 17, Wed 18 & Thurs 19 June

HIGH STREET, CHRISTCHURCH

Tel: 01202 499199 www.regentcentre.co.uk

Sat 21 & Mon 23 – Fri 27 June 7.30pm Mats: Mon 23 – Fri 27 June 2.30pm Morn: Sat 28 June 10.30am

Nicole Kidman is GRACE OF MONACO (PG) Sunday 22 June 7.30pm, Tickets: £10.50 Concs £10

THE LOVE PUNCH (12A)

BOURNEMOUTH CONCERT BRASS - Hollywood & Broadway

Wed 18 June 7pm, Tickets: £13 Concs: £12 Live by satellite on screen

Sat 28 June 2.30pm & 7.30pm, £13 Conc £12 Angela Lansbury, James Earl Jones

Live from RSC: HENRY IV Part 2 Thur 19 June 7.30pm in aid of Dorset Roller Girls

WHIP IT (12A)

Fri 20 June 7.30pm, Tickets: £18 Wondrous Place, Halfway to Paradise BILLY FURY YEARS - Michael King, his Musicians & Singers

DRIVING MISS DAISY

Recorded on screen at Comedy Theatre Melbourne Mon 30 June – Thur 3 July 2.30pm & 7.30pm Pat Highsmith novel Kirsten Dunst, Vigo Mortensen

TWO FACES OF JANUARY (12A) Public Car Park at rear.

Pre-show Dining at The Kings £15.

VIP Experience £30. Not inc show ticket.

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M J F C N I E T Z P Q H A T O

R E M M U S Z V X C X X V A B

W M F N A P P Q O P B V W F E

S B U T N A U D V U C V S X A

G E N N T U U T R A V E L H C

D I A G Q Y T L I R H S O W H

X I X U Z K V H I A S L U Q X

N Q O F X I H Z W S I U E N E

S R P E J W K Q A D Q X T Q D

B T A S U X O R A D F P I E A

S U O J G O D Y G V G T H I P

R P C S C Y K B U B W W Y O S

U B Q K A A J Q E E Z F S C D

B A R B E C U E U C J S D M X

M J X L G T R S G H N S Y C W

SUN SPADE SEA SUMMER BARBECUE BEACH BUCKET TRAVEL FUN HOLIDAY

This month, the prize is a pair of tickets to see Ghost: The Musical on Thursday 17th July at 7.30pm at The Regent Centre, so complete this page by 25th June and send to:

June Prize Wordsearch Name: The Christchurch Directory, Address: 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, BH22 0JR Telephone:

Christchurch

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Prize Wordsearch

The Christchurch Directory Prize Wordsearch

36 36

Money Saving Tips

Martin

LEWIS Bank Accounts

Once upon a time, bank accounts were ugly creatures that bit hard when you went overdrawn, and gave nowt back when you were in credit.

Today most still do exactly that. Yet a few innovative gems are starting to sparkle. So instead of bank bashing, today I'm applauding the bank accounts that pay. It couldn’t be a better time. Last September, in response to multiple wristslappings for blocking competition, the banks finally made switching easier, launching the new ‘seven day switching’ system.

They now switch your direct debits and standing orders within a week, close your old account and ensure payments get forwarded to your new bank for 13 months.

The bank that pays you to pay your bills Three years ago, Santander.co.uk was a customer service pariah. Now its innovative 123 current account is the customer service silver medallist, with 74% rating it great.

Roly tweeted me: "We've been using it for seven months – we've earned £350 with the credit card."

You gain in two ways. Pay bills by direct debit and you get 3% cashback on mobile, phone and broadband; 2% on energy; and 1% on water, council tax and Santander mortgage payments. These should dwarf its £2/month fee, as someone with typical bills earns £10/mth. It also pays a best buy 3% AER savings interest if you've £3,000-£20,000.

To qualify, you must pay in £500/month (ie, a £6,000+ salary). You can also apply for its linked credit card which gives 3% back on petrol spend (repay IN FULL to avoid interest).

The bank saving you up to £500 on travel, mobile and roadside insurance Many have been ripped off for years with fee-charging bank accounts. Some are even entitled to reclaim years of fees, which can add up to to £100s (full help in www.mse.me/ reclaimpackage).

Used correctly, a few fee-paying accounts can win.

Nationwide.co.uk’s FlexPlus tops the tree. You pay £10/mth and included is European breakdown cover, family worldwide insurance (max age 74) and family smartphone insurance. A family needing them all could pay £600/year separately. For travel cover, ensure you disclose pre-existing conditions.

The bank that pays you £100 then £5 each month The Halifax.co.uk Reward account pays no interest, just pays you £5 monthly after tax if you stay in credit. It also gives £100 for switching, so provided you don't keep savings in

there, it can add up well.

The bank service gold medallist Your bank account's the one financial product you interact with day-to-day, so service counts. So every six months, I poll on my site to find out which bank you rate the most.

And every time I’ve done it Firstdirect.com has won the gold medal by a mile. Financially, it's decent too, giving £100 to join and a 0% overdraft for up to £250.

The banks that give you a 0% overdra� An overdraft's a debt like any other. If you go into the red often, the most crucial thing's cutting its cost to give you respite to clear it. While Firstdirect.com offers a 0% overdraft for up to £250, Nationwide.co.uk's FlexDirect may give an interest-free overdraft for more, though it only lasts a year (it's 50p/day after).

If that isn’t long enough to clear your debt, then it's possible to shift your overdraft to a few specialist credit cards which are 0% for 29 months. This can be a little tricky though, so read my full instructions on that, and best buys at www.moneysavingexpert.com/moneytransfers It's worth noting that if you regularly go beyond your overdraft limit, there are no competitive banks. While for those in severe hardship bank charge reclaiming is still possible (see mse.me/bankcharges), the best thing to do is try to keep a tight rein on your money.

The banks that don't credit score you Sadly, there are up to a million people in the UK without a bank account CHECK; and some banks don’t make it easy to get them.

For all the top pick deals above, you'll need to pass a credit score. If that’s not going to happen, basic bank accounts don't need credit checks, as they just provide a no-frills, nooverdraft service. You need ID to get one.

When applying, ask for the specific account by name – otherwise you could get forms for standard accounts, then get rejected. The better options include Barclays.co.uk Cash Card and Co-operativebank.co.uk Cashminder (not available to bankrupts).

Even though there's no overdraft, they can still fine you if you try to spend more than you've got.

@MoneySavingExpert

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Test

Open Morning st Sat 21 22nd June June 9.30am to 12.00 noon

n e e to excellence t y e x n r i u s ngle jo o t e On a si

Join us and see the unique environment that

Ballard School can offer your child – everyone is welcome at our open mornings and there is no need to register in advance.

Ballard School, Fernhill Lane, New Milton, Hampshire BH25 5SU Ballard School Ltd is a fee paying school and exists for the education of children. Registered Charity No. 307328

Christchurch

Call 01425 626900 for an information pack www.ballardschool.co.uk

Community News

38 38

The Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership launches electric cars The Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership has launched two electric cars thanks to funding from Dorset County Council’s Local Sustainable Transport Fund.

The two Nissan Leaf vehicles will be used by the Partnership’s Civil Enforcement Officers as they travel between locations across Christchurch and East Dorset.

A grant of £21,000 was given by the County Council as part of the Three Towns Travel project. This was supplemented by a government PlugIn Car Grant of £5000 for each vehicle.

The full life cost of the two vehicles over five years will be £36,000 less than two diesel-powered vans.

The electric cars are ideal for the Civil Enforcement officers as their car park duties involve short journeys during the day. The cars can then be recharged overnight.

Cllr Margaret Phipps, portfolio holder for the Environment at Christchurch Borough Council, said: “The cars

achieve an equivalent of over 260 miles to the gallon, attract a zero road fund licence and have cheaper servicing due to fewer moving parts.

Adding the running cost savings to the environmental benefits means these vehicles are ideal for the councils.”

Cllr Mike Dyer, lead member for the Environment at East Dorset District Council, added: “One of our Corporate Plan objectives is to lead by example in our own environmental performance.

Having these zero-emission vehicles will reduce the carbon impact of our services and cut air pollution.”

Cllr Peter Finney from Dorset County Council said: “This project by the Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership is an ideal example of providing sustainable means of transport in the county. We were pleased to be able to finance it from our Sustainable Transport Fund.”

Electric cars launched by Christchurch and East Dorset Partnership. Left to right – Jonathan Ross, Engineering and Parking Manager at Christchurch and East Dorset Councils, Cllr Peter Finney (Dorset County Council), Cllr Margaret Phipps (Christchurch Borough Council), Cllr Mike Dyer (East Dorset District Council) and Lindsay Cass, Head of Property and Engineering at Christchurch and East Dorset Councils

39

CD614

Christchurch

CD614

CD614

40 40

Short Story

Setting a Good Example by Paula Williamson

Where’s the sense in giving sentimental value to clothes?

They are usually old, but not old enough to be termed ‘Vintage’ although they probably are - like you. The most ancient clothes in our wardrobes usually fall into the categories of ‘Favourite’, ‘I made it’, ‘Mother gave it to me’, ‘I promise I will fit into it again soon’, or ‘I’ll keep it as a warning not to have chocolates in the cupboard.’

In truth, none of these grounds are valid. For instance, the favourite, well, when was that? Five, ten years ago? Take a look at a current fashion magazine and learn the truth about your erstwhile tastes. Just above the knee was fine when your legs were also fine, but look at what’s happened to THEM. Will you ever want to show them off again? So out a couple of dresses can go.

Then I made it. It was such a triumph at the time, sophisticated colour, top class designer, carefully constructed and still classic enough to be given a whirl, if you have the courage to put it on. And have you still got the high heels needed to show it off? No, I didn’t think so.

Mother gave it to me. The chances are that she has been calling to you for years from wherever she went when she died, to get rid of it. She didn’t even like it for herself and only passed it on because you nagged her for it. The skip people, who ask for any textile at all, will ensure the art silk is recycled somehow. They may even like that puce colour. Go on, do it.

And then the biggest trap of all - your self-promise to fit into the violet tweed which you wore for Angela’s wedding. There’s the hat as well, definitely catching dust. The skirt was always close fitting even when you had squeezed into the new girdle, but you managed to smile as you suffered manfully for that particular day. What a relief

41

when you were able to peel it off as you got home that evening. And there it is, taunting you every time you open the door. You have only kept it as a spur to keep on with the wretched diet, but will power gets low sometimes, doesn’t it? You can always start again with the muesli tomorrow. You’ll feel a lot better when the violet vision is not just in the plastic bag, but out of the house as well.

And lastly, the warning about putting all of your weight back on. The trouble with hanging on to that dress (in truth it used to hang on to you) it reminds you how miserable you were in those days. You really don’t need to be made miserable by just looking at it. Throw it out.

You may wonder, having made all this space on the rail, how you can reward yourself. Well, wait for a sunny day, with spring in the air (it could even be winter, it’s your mood that counts) take a trip to the shop you love. It’s usually just to look, but this time you are to reward yourself for your strength of will. Look at everything, there may even be a few reductions, it would be a lucky day, as you’ll have to stretch the housekeeping to buy one of the delights on offer.

If everything is full price, on this once a blue moon occasion, go on, just do it.

I tell my friends about this self-administered tonic, and they smile indulgently and don’t really think I do it. But I assure them that I do, not often of course, but I hope they believe me and take note of my good example.

Paula belongs to a local writing group.

Perhaps this is more of an article than a story, but I think it might strike chord with many! If you are a budding writer and would like to send in a short story, we would love to hear from you!

Christchurch

42

Can a garden be both beautiful and There are many different types of artificial low maintenance? longer. grasses available, from luxuriously soft, 37mm Gardens offer a natural escape. A haven from the pressures of life – it is a precious outdoor space that people relax and enjoy themselves in.

However, “I love my garden, but not the work!” is a common complaint amongst householders.

For some people life is just too busy to fit those precious gardening hours into a hectic weekly schedule. For others, whilst passionate about gardening, find that keeping on top of the mowing is getting too much.

Despite the work, most people are clear about one thing, they do not want to give up their patch of green. So what are the options for a beautiful but low maintenance outdoor space?

Some people opt for a quick and easy fix - paving over their gardens and disguising the concrete surface with pots and planters. This is not ideal, as rainwater has nowhere to go, possibly leading to flooding issues.

One more affordable and increasingly popular option is artificial grass. Artificial turf provides the perfect lawn without the mowing, mud and maintenance hassle of natural grass. Importantly, most of the artificial grasses are pet and childfriendly. Front lawn installations are just as popular as back lawns. Artificial grass can give a property instant ‘kerb appeal’ – looking tidy and well-kept all year round. According to locally based artificial grass installers Green Scheme Solutions Ltd, maintenance is minimal and an annual spruce up is all that is usually required.

Latest manufacturing technologies mean that modern fake grasses are very realistic with brown thatch woven into the root zone. Colours have changed from bright greens to more naturallooking olive shades (several different coloured yarns are used to give a realistic finished look).

The best grasses use ‘shaped fibres’ - the individual blades of grass are stronger by design which means that the lawns look great for

pile heights for an immaculate looking garden, to more affordable and hard wearing grasses with shorter pile heights.

Given the wide range and styles of grasses available, it is particularly important to get some expert advice to ensure you get a product which matches your needs. As with paint pot samples, good looking grass samples do not necessarily give you the lawn you want.

Artificial grass is an ideal choice for people wanting to enjoy their garden whilst cutting down on their maintenance workload. Local resident Nick White is very enthusiastic about his new artificial lawn: “What’s great is that rather than constantly working on the garden, I can spend quality time in the garden playing with the kids. Even our Old English sheepdog loves the new lawn.”

ARTIFICIAL GRASS = PERFECT LAWN!

BEFORE

AFTER

01929 552505

CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE info@greenschemeltd.co.uk www.greenschemegrass.com

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AllGlaze DORSET LIMITED

Tel: 01202 488880 Fax: 01202 419665

Website: www.allglazeltd.co.uk Email: allglazeco@ntlworld.com

REPLACEMENT CONSERVATORY ROOFS Is your conservatory........

Too hot in the Summer???

Too cold in the Winter?

Noisy? Leaking?

Not looking good??

BEFORE This conservatory was looking really past its best

We can replace your existing roof with an energy efficient solar controlled, self-cleaning glass or polycarbonate roof.

To fit any style of conservatory

Call 01202 488880

Christchurch

AFTER The new roof gave this conservatory a new lease of life

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Christchurch Angels

Christchurch Angels Project is led by Christchurch Community Partnership and is funded by Christchurch Borough Council, Dorset Community Foundation, the Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group and Sovereign Housing

Christchurch Angels aims to reach those in our community who don’t have a network of family/friends to give that practical help and support in times of crisis or illness for a couple of months.

The kinds of things a volunteer Angel can help with are: • Visiting people in their homes and • Helping with paperwork and providing regular contact if needed correspondence • Helping & supporting people to use local • Helping with practical tasks, e.g. getting facilities, activities & resources prescriptions, mowing the lawn, walking the dog.

• Assisting with information and advice regarding other agencies who can provide • Helping to develop a better social life support • Shopping transport via Dial a Bus • Acting as an advocate when necessary • Accompanied walks with the Strollers

Volunteers will not be expected to carry out personal care or housework VOLUNTEER ANGELS:

Volunteers are the ‘life blood’ for any community. We seek to recruit volunteers from a diverse range of backgrounds. You will get the chance to meet new people, make friends and gain confidence; the chance to use your individual talents and skills to benefit your local community; an enhanced CV; the knowledge that you have made a difference to someone’s life – a real feel good factor.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer please contact Linda Green on 07443 476798 or email: christchurchangels@gmail.com

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Holiday Villas to Rent Costa del Sol, Spain

www.spaincostadelsolvillas.co.uk

Sotogrande

Private villa with own swimming pool overlooking the famous Valderamma Golf Course. Sleeps 6 + 1. Ideal for family holiday. Relax around the pool and villa. There is also the sea and beach, golf, horseriding, bike hire, paintball, dolphin watching and fishing to do nearby. Close to restaurants, Sotogrande port and other ports along the coast.

Fly from Bournemouth or London to Malaga or Gibraltar.

Bahia Dorada

Private villa on seafront with access directly onto beach. Six communal swimming pools and a tennis court. Near Estepona. Sleeps 6 + 1. Every window has a sea view! Outside eating area overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Fantastic views of Africa, Gibraltar and Estepona.

Ideal family holiday, whether just to relax by the pool or on the beach, or as a base for activities such as golf, horseriding or dolphin watching.

Fly from Bournemouth or London to Malaga or Gibraltar.

For all enquiries and prices: Call Sue on 07831 242694 / 07769 694425 or email: sue.collins47@yahoo.co.uk

Christchurch

46

Index of advertisers

Your quick guide to everyone and everything in your Directory...

Attractions Crazy Golf Courses............................................39 Bathrooms K & B Installations............................................ 3 Bedrooms Custom World...................................................11 Flair Interiors....................................................47 Befriending Schemes Christchurch Angels..........................................44 Blinds, Curtains & Shutters Ashley Blinds..................................................... 3 Tuscany Blinds..................................................15 Business Opportunities Wessex Aloe Supplies........................................31 Carpet & Upholstery Cleaners Cleaning Doctor................................................13 Carpets & Flooring Dorset Contract Flooring..................................27 Cars — New & Used Keith Motors..................................................... 1 Children’s Activities Jo Jingles...........................................................35 Chiropractors Paul Harris........................................................23 Community News Adventures of Nellie.........................................28 Dorset Wildlife Trust: Darting Dragonflies...........10 Hayloft Art & Textiles Exhibition.......................26 LawSpot............................................................12 Martin Lewis: Bank Accounts...........................36 New Mayor of Christchurch sworn in............... 6 Priory Music Festival.........................................18 Recipe: Pizza Turnovers....................................22 What’s On at The Regent Centre......................34 Denture Services Dorset Denture Clinic........................................45 Domestic Cleaning Time for You......................................................21 Drainage Services All Drains Cleared............................................. 5 Drain & Plumbing Solutions..............................15 Education Ballard School...................................................37 St Thomas Garnet’s School...............................25 Furniture Sturtons & Tappers...........................................13 Garage Doors Skandoor........................................................... 7 Garage Services Keith Motors..................................................... 1 Garden Services Ashley Tree Surgeons........................................17 Gr8 Grass.......................................................... 7

Green Scheme...................................................42 Harland Garden Services.................................. 5 Golf Clubs, Hotels, Restaurants & Spas Dudsbury Golf Club Hotel & Spa....................... 2 Graphics Designers Lizzy’s Design.................................................... 5 Health & Care Bournemouth Careline.....................................44 Hearing Aids & Services Kellear Hearing.................................................17 Holiday Villas Costa del Sol Villas............................................45 Hospitals Bournemouth & Poole NHS Trusts.................... 9 Hot Tub Hire Party Tub Hire...................................................17 Kitchens Flair Interiors....................................................47 K & B Installations............................................ 3 Letting Agents Belvoir!.............................................................19 Locksmiths Cross Keys Locksmiths...................................... 3 Lofts Loft Services......................................................45 Meal Deliveries Custom Lunches................................................23 Mobile Car Repairs Up 2 Scratch.....................................................33 Party Supplies Peeks: The Event Makers..................................23 Pet Services Pets at our Home..............................................33 Plumbing & Heating Engineers Drain & Plumbing Solutions..............................43 J C Gas..............................................................31 Puzzles & Competitions Crossword.........................................................30 Honeycomb.......................................................30 Prize Wordsearch..............................................35 Sudoku..............................................................30 Where is Nellie?................................................ 8 Solicitors Harold G Walker...............................................48 Vehicle Tracking Services Global Tracking Solutions................................. 7 Window Repairs Mr Demister.....................................................31 Windows, Doors & Conservatories Allglaze.............................................................43 Dorset Windows...............................................33 Flyscreens.........................................................17

fit

8 W 47 on mm e a to Qu lso p o ar su f y tz pp ou wo ly r e rk & f xis top it tin s g w tha or t kt op

AMAZING KITCHEN & BEDROOM MAKEOVERS Less cost, mess & hassle compared to a complete replacement Local Family Firm

We replace the doors, drawer fronts, handles and worktops

WE ALSO SUPPLY & FIT COMPLETE KITCHENS & BEDROOMS

REPLACEMENT WORKTOPS ‘The stone that fits on top’

We supply & fit

the appliances

magic corners / larders

Made to Measure Doors

new kitchen drawers

CONTACT US NOW FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION QUOTE Tel: 01202 487697 / 07713 114060 info@flairinteriorsltd.co.uk www.flairinteriorsltd.co.uk Christchurch

sinks & taps

Your Team of Specialists in Christchurch Alan Fairley

Jennifer Miles

Conveyancing

Family

Rebecca Suthers Wills & Probate

Dee Woodcock Employment

Broadstone:

01202 692448 Verwood:

01202 823308

Christchurch:

Harold G Walker

01202 482202

hgwalker.co.uk

01202 881454

Your Friend-in-Law

Wimborne:

The Christchurch Directory 1 Moorlands Rise, West Moors, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 0JR