Roundabout East Dorset Villages - August 2023

AUG 2023

Welcome...

Dear Residents,

Here we are in the height of summer! I do hope the weather stays good for the holidays. Having had such sunshine fairly early this year, I hope it lasts throughout August and September. Are you going away or staying in our wonderful England, near the sea or in the countryside? We have such delights here, places to visit, serene scenery to highly active play parks, the choices are endless. We will be staying local that is for sure this year.

Don’t forget our trustworthy and needed trades people, local shops and businesses still need us at this time of year. Maybe they could help you, while you take a day or two out? In addition to our printed magazines we now have a fully interactive magazine online. You can find this at www.dorsetemag.co.uk Here you can click on the advert and go to the business website, click a phone number and it will make the call and there are even online games to play. If you are more of a technical person, this could be for you. I still like the traditional paper magazines myself, with the ability to flick through and have a coffee at the same time, but we are here to cater for all!

The whole team wish you a super summer and if you know of any advertisers who you think will benefit from our thousands of printed magazines, or our online issues, please let them know about us.

Wishing you all the Very Best, Debbie, Stephen, Mel, Julie, Tracey, Pippa, Steph, Jaidan & Chris

DISCLAIMER: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure the data in this

is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party to loss or damaged caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause. Roundabout

Minimum charge £45

PARKING SENSORS WITH AUDIBLE WARNING FITTED

Rear set colour coded: from £160

Front set colour coded: from £190

Both Front & Rear Sensors: from £280 CRUISE CONTROL FOR MOST VEHICLES £425 FITTED PRICE.

Metatrak insurance approved vehicle £330

Rear view cameras for Cars £190, Vans from £225 & Motorhomes from £245

Dash cameras starting at £145 or FRONT & REAR cameras for just £245 Mobile

Free Art Workshops this Summer Inpsired by Badbury Rings

Families and community groups in the Wimborne area are being invited to free artist-led workshops in July and August, to make lanterns and flags for Emerald Ant’s Glow Badbury event, organised in partnership with the National Trust, and taking place at Badbury Rings this autumn.

Everyone is welcome to join in, either on a day workshop where you can pre-book a place, or at one of the drop-in workshops, where you can just turn up on the day.

Suitable for children aged 7 plus, and adults of all ages, these creative, friendly summer workshops begin on July 15th at Kingston Lacy, following on with 8th , 25th and 29th August workshops in the villages of Sturminster Marshall, Tarrant Keyneston, and Pamphill, and on 26th and 27th August with two dropin sessions at the Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne and The Reef in Colehill respectively.

Those going along to the workshops are advised to ‘dress for mess’! The sessions will be colourful and fun and, being part of the Glow Badbury project, participants will be actively helping to celebrate our local heritage – both natural and historic – by bringing a very special hill fort to life.

To find out more about the Glow Badbury project, funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, or to book a workshop place, please go to: emeraldant.com/glow-badbury/gbworkshops/

Images:

Top: Glow Badbury Lantern (Artwork by ©Sarah Butterworth)

Left: Visitors at Badbury Rings (please credit: ©National Trust Images/John Millar)

Need help with your tax?

Bare Necessities

Remix your beauty routine for the warmer months to create a fuss-free, gorgeous summer glow.

As the weather warms up it’s worth swapping out certain aspects of your cosmetic armoury to keep your warpaint as smoking-hot as the sun.

First base

Be sure to cleanse skin thoroughly before applying a light, gel-based moisturiser. This will lock in hydration and prepare your skin for the next layer.

While some foundations boast sun protection, the general consensus is that a separate SPF (of at least 30) and foundation is more effective.

Keep it light

Avoid heavy foundations and opt for a tinted moisturiser or BB cream instead, preferably applied using your fingertips or a makeup sponge for a natural finish.

If you have any blemishes or dark circles, use a concealer

to spottreat those areas and if you suffer from rosacea invest in a good camouflage cream – often these appear green and then change to match your skin tone.

Beautify your brows

As is often the case, things that look effortless often require more prep-work than one might expect.

With eyebrows this means ensuring that the outer lines are clean and that their shape complements your face. Paradoxically, shaping brows can actually make them appear fuller.

Don’t miss out mascara

A coat of mascara can instantly make your eyes look brighter and more awake. Opt for a waterproof formula if you plan on spending time in the water or sweating and use a lash curler beforehand to give your lashes an extra boost.

Dewy does it

When it comes to blushers and highlighters, look for a gel or cream based formula. This will

enhance your natural glow and stop your skin from looking cakey or dry. A little bronzer will also add to your summer glow, just be sparing with it.

Love your lips

Sometimes it seems we hydrate and nourish every inch of our bodies except our lips. So when it gets warmer, make sure you apply lots of lip balm and if possible, one that has SPF included.

If you want a hint of colour, go for a tinted balm or cream-based lipstick.

Spritz it up

A spritz of setting spray after you’ve applied your makeup will stop it from shifting/ melting during the day.

Hydrate

Regardless of what you slap on the outside, a dehydrated body will always lead to drier skin, so drink up your water for glow that starts within.

A family run company committed to providing good quality and genuine care for your loved ones.

2 small homes offering warm, comfortable and safe settings with a “home from home” feeling.

Fresh produce and home cooked varied foods prepared by caring chefs offering many choices.

Friendly and committed local staff assisting in your every need 24hrs a day.

Extensive social care and activities offered by our experienced co-ordinator.

Flexible Day Care Service available.

Manager: Becky Wall

Manager: Janet Sheridan

Puzzle Page Quick Crossword

Across Clues:

5. Announcer (9)

8. Indicating pitch (4)

9. Upper floor (8)

10. Large tall mass of ice (7)

11. Creature (5)

13. Flock (5)

15. Care for (7)

18. Plural, continued musical phrase (8)

19. 4840 square yards (4)

20. Matters from plants (9)

Down Clues:

1. Made beforehand (6)

2. Inlet (7)

3. Worry (5)

4. Conduct yourself (6)

6. Movement, hands of time (9)

7. Undergarment (9)

12. Supernatural (7)

14. Attacker (6)

16. Once a year (6)

17. Ring-shaped bread (5)

Word Ladder

Make your way from TIDE to MOVE by changing one letter on each step to make a new word!

#030

World Cup Trivia

1. Who won the World Cup 2022?

2. Who was the top goal scorer?

3. When did England last win the World Cup?

4. How many goals did Messi score in the 2022 World Cup?

5. Who hosted the first World Cup?

6. Which team has won the most World Cups?

7. Which team has the most overall losses since the first ever World Cup?

8. There were 2 years in which the World Cup was cancelled, what are those years?

9. What was the first Women’s World Cup?

10. What is the “Group of Death”?

ANSWERS: (TIDE,

Mr Consistency

Why Dermot O’Leary is one of light entertainment’s heaviest commodities.

Dermot O’Leary, by his own admission, encounters his fair share of criticism. Some accuse him of playing a little too much guitar music on his Radio 2 weekend show, and in the past the Twitterati have suggested his presenting voice can be a touch monotone. However, such observations are both unfair and untrue. Rather, the popular entertainment fraternity should be thanking the 50-year-old for delivering a healthy dose of sanity to a TV and radio ratings clamour that becomes all the more farcical with every new reality series or sensationalist podcast.

Dermot has lived through well over two decades of the madness, and emerges to tell the tale. “Certainly, as a competitive environment it’s much crazier than it ever was,” he begins. “There are so many different options for viewers and listeners these

days, but I like to think I have always sided myself with projects that are tasteful, interesting and, more than anything else, entertaining.

“I’ve always had a lot of fun doing live TV and radio, and when it stops being that way, I look for something else to do.

“Variation is key. Like most people, I’m interested in so many different things, and I never lose sight of the fact I’m lucky enough to explore these in the public domain.”

Sean Dermot Fintan O’Leary Jr was born and raised in Colchester. His parents, Seán and Maria, had landed on these shores from Ireland. After feeling his way through the education system he attended Middlesex University, where he graduated in Media Studies and Politics.

Returning to his home county to work at BBC Radio Essex, that calling was clearly in the entertainment industry, and he quickly progressed from DJ tasks to TV school runner and Channel 4 presenter, working, notably, on Big Brother’s Little Brother before switching to ITV.

“I think most people know me for Big Brother and X Factor, and they’ve been a massive

part of my life, but as in most things, you know when the time is right to give stuff up, and it became important for me to pursue other projects.”

His switch to hosting the Saturday morning breakfast show on Radio 2 is perhaps a nod to future ambitions, and undoubtedly Dermot has the style, humility and confidence to make a genuine assault on larger commitments on the airwaves.

“I think radio is an incredible medium and it has always excited me. It’s a very different creature to TV… I don’t have to dress up, for a start!”

Save Our Wild Seas Appeal Launched

To Fight The Threat Of Plastic Pollution In Dorset’s Seas

Dorset Wildlife Trust has launched a fundraising appeal to raise vital funds to protect Dorset’s precious marine wildlife from plastic pollution. An estimated twelve million tonnes of discarded plastic are finding their way into oceans every year causing damage to precious marine ecosystems and habitats. Many species mistake plastic for prey and seabirds, dolphins, whales, fish, and invertebrates are all known to ingest plastic, leading to suffocation and starvation. Birds, seals, and fish also become entangled in discarded fishing gear and plastic packaging.

The wildlife charity is appealing for donations to fund work such as clearing up pollution on the shorelines at Chesil and Kimmeridge, carrying out surveys to capture essential seashore data, monitoring the effects of pollution on seals and other wildlife, and influencing future marine policies and local decision-making. In addition, the charity aims to inspire more people of all ages and backgrounds to care about the plight of marine wildlife by reducing their use of single-use plastics or to become a volunteer to help with the work.

In Dorset, there are 157 marine species of conservation concern. Many species such as common skate, sturgeon and angel shark are

now rarely seen or gone altogether. Lyme Bay is known for its tidal fronts that create a body of nutrient-rich water that promotes plankton growth which attracts fish, seabirds, harbour porpoise, common dolphin as well as white-beaked dolphin. Poole Harbour’s unique natural environment with its extensive saltmarshes and mudflats provides vital feeding and breeding opportunities for numerous rare and endangered bird species such as avocet, spoonbill, and black-tailed godwit. Protecting these incredibly precious places and their ecosystem processes is now critical, with a real risk of losing many species entirely.

Brian Bleese, Chief Executive said, “Dorset’s marine environment is as rich and diverse as our terrestrial environment, but most marine wildlife is unseen, and the negative impact of human activity goes unnoticed. Sadly, marine habitats and biodiversity are declining rapidly, and pollution presents one of the biggest threats to marine wildlife. As a local charity, we firmly believe that the place to start addressing the global issues of climate change and ecological decline is right here on our own patch. Healthy seas contribute so much to our quality of life and play a vital part in addressing the climate crisis, as they capture and store more carbon than forests. We need your help - please donate to the Save Our Wild Seas appeal and help protect Dorset’s precious marine wildlife.”

To donate to this important project and find out more, visit dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/WildSeas

Photos: Dorset Wildlife Trust

tax and help protect their share from care fees

The Property Protection Trust Will package is based around how you hold the ownership of your home. All good estate planning nowadays considers the difference between owning your home as joint tenants or as tenants in common.

If you own your home as Joint Tenants; when one of you dies the ownership of the home passes by the Law of Survivorship and not by your Will. Therefore, the surviving partner will automatically own 100% of the property. This sounds right to most people. BUT should the surviving partner need care in the future, the Local Authority can take everything they own (including their home) to pay for the care fees, leaving just £14,250 to be inherited by children and grandchildren.

There is an alternative.

Nowadays many couples choose to own their home as Tenants in Common where each partner will own 50% of the family home. This provides for many benefits.

Firstly, it allows you to legally leave your share of the property in your Will to whoever you wish. A properly written Will can ensure that your half of your house will eventually pass to your children even if your widow re-marries.

Unmarried cohabiting couples or relatives living together can also use this means of ownership as a way of minimising their Inheritance Tax exposure.

It can also help with long-term care costs. If one of you is still living in your home the Local Authority can’t include its value in the means test if one of you has to go in to long-term care. This also applies if the husband or wife still living at home dies while the other is in care as their share will go into the trust.

Dorset and Wight are your local experts in Property Protection Trust Wills.

Increasing numbers of homeowners are choosing to hold their properties as tenants in common to reduce inheritance

A Design for Life… e Kevin McCloud Column

Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the affable architectural business owner talks about how we keep our homes, from the tidy to the cluttered, and everything in between.

I was reminded recently of a comment I’d made some time ago about the way humans, more than any other living thing, can find equal comfort in both chaos and in order, and this, of course, is not better seen than in our homes.

The home is a unique manifestation of our personal identity, a physical embodiment of the narratives we construct about who we are and how we live. A home is the backdrop to your life. It’s not simply a space, but a stage where our lives unfold.

So when it comes to tidiness, I believe in a balanced approach. Perfection is, after all, the enemy of the good.

Yes, a certain level of order can create a sense of calm and control – it can make a home more functional and efficient; but let’s not forget that homes are for living, not just for looking at.

A spotless, clutter-free house might be pleasing to the eye, but it can also feel cold and impersonal. A home that’s too tidy, too ‘perfect’, can paradoxically become uncomfortable. It can start to feel like a museum, where you’re afraid to touch anything for fear of leaving a mark.

On the other hand, a home where every item has a story to tell, where there’s a bit of controlled chaos, can feel warm and welcoming. It’s a

place where you can truly relax, be yourself, and live your life without constantly worrying about maintaining an unrealistic standard of neatness.

That’s not to say that we should all live in disarray. There’s a difference between a lived-in home and a messy one. Good homekeeping, in my view, is about finding the right balance. It’s about creating a space that reflects who you are and supports the life you want to live.

So by all means, keep your home tidy, but don’t strive for perfection. Don’t be afraid to let it show signs of life, and embrace the imperfections whilst celebrating the little bits of chaos. Remember that a home is not just a space, but a stage for your life. And life is not a tidy, predictable affair. It’s a grand, messy, complex, beautiful design of its own.

Understanding Investments: Investment choices within a Pension

Pensions is not a word which excites most people! However, I urge you to spend 5 minutes of your time reading the following brief article as pensions can provide extremely effective, tax-efficient investment opportunities. Pensions are also relevant for more people than you might initially think.

The introduction of auto-enrolment has resulted in more people saving towards their retirement through a pension than ever before. A very good outcome for consumers! But it’s the tax saving opportunities pensions can offer which I would like to focus on, and I have highlighted some examples below to illustrate.

Employees, Self-Employed and Company Directors: Each can personally contribute 100% of their relevant UK earnings into their pension (or £3,600 gross if no earnings) and these contributions will attract tax relief. The annual allowance limit of £60,000 (which includes both employee and employer contributions for an individual) should also be considered, which can be tapered back to as little as £10,000 for high earners. Tax relief is available at a person’s highest marginal rate i.e. anything between 20% and 45% (even nontaxpayers receive 20% tax relief on contributions to pensions operating ‘relief at source’ such as personal pensions).

“Carry-Forward” may be available for the previous 3 tax years if the individual had a pension plan in place in those years. To utilise this, the current tax year’s annual allowance must be fully used and then it is possible to go back 3 tax years to utilise any unused allowances. Companies can also contribute to a pension plan on behalf of their employees/directors, and the company’s contribution is added to personal contributions when considering the annual allowance. Many of my employed clients aim to avoid paying higher or additional rate tax on their salary and bonus. Pension contributions can assist in enabling them to mitigate these tax liabilities. The rate at which additional rate tax is applied was reduced to £125,140 in April 2023 so this has become even more important.

The reduction and loss of a personal tax free allowance with income over £100,000 and Child Benefit Tax Charge for income over £50,000 can also be mitigated through pension contributions.

Company directors and their accountants often seek my advice on how to draw profits from their business taxefficiently. Pension contributions are classed as a business expense so, if an employer’s pension contribution is made instead of a dividend payment to the director, this can usually save them both corporation tax on the company profits and personal dividend tax on the contribution.

Howard Goodship

Retirees and Family Contributions:

Even people who don’t work can benefit from tax relief on pension contributions up to £2,880 per annum as the government top this up to £3,600. That’s a 25% return on the original £2,880 from the tax relief alone! Many of my older clients help their adult children and grandchildren save for retirement, especially if they have surplus income and/or capital.

Pension contributions made by a third party may still qualify for tax-relief at the recipient’s highest marginal rate. For example, an adult child may be a higher rate tax- payer and a pension contribution paid by their parent (who may not pay tax or only pay basic rate tax) could qualify for relief at the higher rate. This can also be effective from an inheritance tax perspective as the pension contribution is classed as a lifetime gift. This is subject to the recipient having relevant earnings and not already using their full annual allowance.

There is no denying pension legislation is complicated, and the devil is in the detail. The examples above are broad and are not meant as financial advice.

If you’d like to learn more or discuss your personal situation, we would be delighted to meet for a free, no obligation initial chat.

Howard Goodship is an Independent Financial Adviser with Lonsdale Wealth Management, 5 Fridays Court, Ringwood. Tel: 01425 208490 www.lonsdaleservices.co.uk

A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until age 55 (57 from April 2028 unless the plan has a protected pension age). The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available. Your pension income could also be affected by the interest rates at the time you take your benefits. The tax implications of pension withdrawals will be based on your individual circumstances, tax legislation and regulation which are subject to change. You should seek advice to understand your options at retirement.

General Knowledge

Across Clues:

1. Second highest (4)

5. Strong, rough strokes (4)

7. Situation (9)

9. Black and white Whale (4)

11. Emphasising (5)

12. Lowest part (4)

14. Instruction (6)

17. Burn (6)

19. Alter (5)

20. 17 syllable poem (5)

21. Member of the Columbidae family (6)

23. Chimney (6)

24. Combine together (4)

26. Spicy Indian dish (5)

28. Salty cheese (4)

30. Relieve pain (9)

31. British nobleman (4)

32. Departed (4)

Down Clues:

1. Small metal ball tip (4)

2. Kind, soul (4)

3. Pour, flow out (6)

4. Circumvent (6)

5. Plant used for seasoning (4)

6. Place where leg bends (4)

8. Perch (3)

10. Small particles, radioactive (9)

13. Luscious (9)

15. Senseless (5)

16. Transparent dessert (5)

18. Round and layered (5)

22. Nothing (6)

23. Journey (6)

24. Hardy cabbage (4)

25. Sesame (4)

27. Scandinavian Bronze Trumpet (3)

28. Devotion (4)

29. Among (4)

Answers:

Knee,

Clare Smyth’s Spiced Duck Breast With Creamed Red Cabbage And Roasted Apples

Introduction

I have always been inspired by the great chefs. Despite the fact I’d cooked extensively back home in Northern Ireland, what was prevalent to me when I got to the big kitchens was the fact no-one was afraid to combine seemingly polarised elements, and this dish represents this, for me.

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 210°C/425°F/Gas mark 7. Now score the skin of the duck breasts in a criss-cross pattern. Place the duck breasts in an ovenproof frying pan, skin-side down, and cook for 4-5 minutes or until the fat is rendered. Add the apple to the pan.

2. When the duck skin is crisp and golden brown, turn the duck breasts over and cook the other side for 1-2 minutes. Baste the duck with a knob of butter, then roast in the oven for 2-3 minutes (for medium) or until cooked to your liking.

3. Heat the fennel and coriander seeds in a dry frying pan until aromatic. Grind the seeds with a pestle and mortar. Add the nutmeg, cinnamon and orange zest. Stir in the honey and enough orange juice to give the glaze a good consistency.

Ingredients

For the duck

• 2 x 150g duck breasts

• 1 Braeburn apple, quartered and core removed

4. Remove the duck breasts from the oven and brush the spice mixture over them with a pastry brush. Baste the duck with its roasting juices and leave to rest for a few minutes.

5. Heat a frying pan until hot before adding the duck stock and cooking until the volume of liquid has reduced by half. Add the 25g of butter and whisk until well combined, before seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

6. For the creamed red cabbage, heat a lidded frying pan until hot and fry the bacon lardons, carrot and celeriac with the lid on for 4-5 minutes. Add the cabbage and season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cover with the lid and continue to cook for 3-4 minutes or until the cabbage is tender. Add the cream and cook for 1-2 minutes or until the cream has thickened.

• 25g butter, plus an extra knob of butter

• 1 tsp fennel seeds

• 1 tsp coriander seeds

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp orange zest

• 1 tsp honey

• 25ml orange juice

• 175ml duck stock

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the creamed red cabbage

• 50g smoked bacon lardons

• 30g carrot, diced

• 30g celeriac, diced

• ½ red cabbage, thinly sliced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 250ml double cream

7. To serve, spoon the cabbage onto serving plates and top with the roasted apples. Slice the duck breasts and place on top.

The Adventures of Daichi

The Modern Magazines Camper Van

Steeped in history, decorum, excitement and sheer style, Royal Ascot has become a wonderful tradition with us ‘four girls’. Myself, Mel, Julie and my sister Sue set off for the most famous racecourse on the planet (in my humble opinion) all dressed up with somewhere to go. This year we were all adorned in dresses enveloped in flowers. I wore a rather flamboyant burgundy / pink hat, Mel wore a lovely cream one, looking very pretty and the Julie and Sue looked very debonair in their fascinators. We were set to party.

Did you know, in the Royal Enclosure fascinators are not allowed and that in fact only hats or hatinators, which have a solid base of at least 4 inches are acceptable? For the men in the Royal Enclosure no cravats, bow ties or neckerchiefs are allowed and they must dress in black, navy or grey. Not being of high society myself I rather like our etiquettes and disciplines, but not everyone would agree of course. Personally, I think we should embrace different views, ideas and customs without the need to criticise. Differences are what create us and make us what we are. Of course, not being of Royal blood, or having a personal invitation (now there is a thought…) … these rules were

not for me. I can dream about that, though, can’t I?

We did have tickets for the Queen Anne Enclosure though, just one step down from the Royal one. How exciting! The weather was very warm and sunny, which always helps on a day like this. The four of us were in great spirits, all prepared to soak in the day, relaxed and ready to have a ‘flutter’ on the horses. We started with a delicious coffee and a pizza at one of the well adorned seating areas and even had a table to eat at. Looking avidly at the race cards, to see how many thousands we could win that day, we were in full swing. I know nothing about racing, though my grandfather was a keen enthusiast and spent every Saturday glued to the TV having put on a bet or two… or three… My uncle, Grandad’s son, had even run away from home at a very early age and became a jockey up in Newmarket, but we rarely saw him, so I had no tips from him unfortunately. With only the names of the horses to go on, and a ‘gut feeling’, that was how I chose my four winning bets! Yes four.

The four of us!

Our King and Queen

One winner, two thirds and a fourth that also paid up. I was quids in! Sue had gotten Dad to study the horses for us, so he had given her two ideas for each race. Much to her dismay she kept picking the wrong one! Well, it is part of the fun and as long as you are not throwing away thousands, it all adds to the thrill of the race and the fun of the day. Mel did really well too. She has a horsing background, having owned a horse of her own in her younger days, and now her daughter Abby owns an exracehorse too, ‘Mully’ who is self-determined at times, but well looked after in his retiring years. Mel had studied the horses and jockeys and made some great choices!

I hear the King did well too and won his first race as an owner. Good job. I do remember the sheer delight of our late Queen’s face when she won at Royal Ascot, which the photos showed so well. I am sure she was there, that day, in spirit. We did wave to our wonderful new King and his lovely Queen, as well as a very radiant Kate all beautified in red, sedately sitting next to her handsome Prince. Dame Judi Dench was also seated in a carriage behind them and there was a big cheer for her too. I was situated right next to the barrier at the parade ring. We were there well before we needed to be

of course, all thrilled with anticipation of seeing our Royal arrivals. Having my phone out for a good 15 minutes, all posed and ready to press play, seconds before our well anticipated dignitaries arrived, my phone’s screen suddenly went bright red with a huge EMERGENCY written across it! Panic! I had held the phone so long in the sun, it was totally overheated. Far too much excitement obviously. The good thing about having great friends is that they understand you and don’t question you. Mel was standing behind me. “Give me your phone!” I yelled out. Very calmly and composed of course… What a laugh… Mel handed me her phone immediately and a happy ending was concluded - I have fantastic photos to prove we were there… and to remember our amazing day together. Oh what fun. We need days like this to bring us together, forget any troubles, let our hair down and have some pleasure. Royal Ascot is truly an amazing day out. Mel is taking her Mum to another day at Ascot, where again ‘dressing up’ is essential. So… we don’t have to wait another year… there is a thought. Daichi was thrilled we had such a great day out. This summer we will have to see where, of all the many places he could take us, he will decide to go. You will see in the next issue of your local community magazine of course. He loves to tell you about great days out. Have a wonderful ‘peak season’!

By Debbie Corney

Kate and her Prince

Greenfingers… The Alan Titchmarsh Column

He’s a brilliant presenter, accomplished gardener, talented novelist, and all-round horticultural inspiration.

is month, Alan Titchmarsh discusses the maintenance of pathways and walkways in our gardens.

It’s only right we spend so long obsessing over the green spaces in our garden, and at the heart of that is plants, flowers and, of course, a gorgeous, lush, green lawn.

Yet there is many a beautiful baize spoiled by the constant plodding of human feet, and when the colder, rainier months come around, that gentle path leading to the shed can rapidly come to resemble a muddy mess.

at’s why providing a practical route for people to be able move through a garden is so important. Paths and walkways obviously serve a practical function in providing safe and easy access to the decorated corners of your garden,

whilst also o ering a visual and aesthetic element, guiding the eye, o ering a contrast between natural and manmade materials, whilst creating, as well, an invitation to explore.

Maintaining a pathway, or perhaps even a larger paved area, almost always means turning to concrete. It is hard-wearing, inexpensive and versatile, while in terms of durability you’ll struggle to find anything be er. Yet for those who want a look that’s more natural or rustic, use something like gravel, wood or natural stone. ese materials can create a so er, more organic look that blends in well with the surrounding landscape.

Either way, focus on colour and texture. Look at the other shades in your garden and try to match tones; also mimic shapes in flowers and plants by selecting concrete elements that are styled and intricately designed, focusing on curves, lines and detail.

In terms of laying a path, plan every stone before you start, aiming for flow, perspective and a pa ern that guides the eye. Ensure the ground you are laying the path on is well drained, and while the temptation is to lay each slab level, you may want to factor in a slight tilt so that rainwater

runs o it rather than pooling on top.

Finally, when laid, gravel or mulch around the sides of the path will hold it in place and allow it to so en as it naturalises with your garden.

As the years go by, regular cleaning and repairs will keep your path in optimum condition. Jet washing is a great way of bringing it back to life.

Ultimately, while concrete o en carries with it an unsteady reputation as far as our gardens are concerned, we’d be stuck without it!

SIZE IS EVERYTHING

Effective methods for making the rooms in your home look and feel bigger.

1. Use lighter colours

Using lighter colours on walls and other surfaces can help to make a room look bigger as they work well in reflecting more light, creating a sense of openness and airiness. In contrast, darker colours absorb light and can make a room feel smaller and more enclosed.

2. Create visual interest

While using light colours can give the feeling of increased space, they can also make a room feel bland or sterile. To counter this, create a focal point in the room, such as a piece of artwork or a bold-coloured accent wall. This can draw the eye away from the size of the room.

3. Use mirrors

Place a mirror on a wall opposite a window or a door to reflect natural light and create an illusion of depth. You could accentuate this further by using mirrored furniture such as a coffee table or a mirrored chest of drawers.

4. Reduce clutter

A cluttered room can make a space feel cramped and small, so get rid of anything you don’t need and try to keep surfaces clear.

Use storage solutions such as baskets, bins, and shelves to organise and store items, keeping them off floors and surfaces.

5. Choose furniture wisely

Furniture with a smaller footprint, such as a narrow console table or a slim sofa, can push a sensation of the space being expansive, while oversized furniture will make a room feel small.

Hang curtains high

Spot the Difference!

There are 10 differences between the two images below. How many can you spot?

Beach Reads

For August, a selection of relaxing reads, perfect company for time spent relaxing on beach somewhere.

The Bookbinder of Jericho

by Pip Williams

Peggy has been told for most of her life that her job is to bind the books, not read them. Yet as she folds and gathers pages, her mind wanders to the opposite side of Walton Street, where the female students of Oxford’s Somerville College have a whole library at their fingertips.

None of This is True

by Lisa Jewell

Celebrating her 45th birthday at her local pub, popular podcaster Alix Summers crosses paths with an unassuming woman called Josie Fair. Josie, it turns out, is also celebrating her 45th birthday.

Josie has been listening to Alix’s podcasts and thinks she might be an interesting subject for her series, yet her life appears to be strange and complicated, and although Alix finds her unsettling, she can’t quite resist the temptation to keep making the podcast.

Yet as quickly as she arrived, Josie disappears. Only then does Alix discover she’s left a terrible and terrifying legacy in her wake…

Published by Cornerstone on July 20th

As war and illness reshape her world, her love for a Belgian soldier – and the responsibility that comes with it – threatens to hold her back.

The Bookbinder of Jericho becomes a story about knowledge, notably who creates it, who can access it, and what truths get lost in the process.

Published by Penguin Books on July 7th

Last Day of School

by Jack Sheffield

It’s 1987, and after a decade as head teacher at Ragley-on-theForest School, Jack Sheffield is looking to the future. He and his wife are expecting a new baby, the school is preparing for the introduction of the new National Curriculum, and the coming year promises a whole host of other surprises.

When Jack is offered an opportunity that could change everything, he knows he has a difficult decision to make.

Hilarious, nostalgic and heartwarming in equal measure, Last Day of School is the final novel in the much-loved Teacher series.

Published by Penguin Books on July 27th

Beach Rivals by

Georgie Tilney

When frustrated Clare sees a viral job advert for a three-month bookseller position on a Bali beach, she jumps at the chance.

She’s sharing the bookshop –and a flat – with a handsome but infuriating American man. Jack is Clare’s opposite in almost every way, and it’s not long before they’re driving each other crazy.

However, fighting with Jack is also the most fun Clare’s had in years, and it’s only a matter of time before their relationship turns less than professional...

Published by Penguin Books on July 20th

STAR GAZING

WRITTEN BY KATE EARL kateearlastro@gmail.com

Welcome to the August Stargazing Page. Highlights this month include the annual Perseid Meteor shower, and the Moon close to Saturn.

International Space Station

The ISS is visible every morning after the 24th, just before sunrise. To establish exact timings please refer to www.heavens-above.com or a similar webpage for up-to-date information, remembering to set the location to your observing area.

Events

The annual Perseid Meteor shower, famous for its bright fireballs and persistent trains, reaches its peak on the night of the 12th. Fortunately, the Moon doesn’t rise until 1am this year, so if the clouds stay away this is a great opportunity to spot some ‘shooting stars’. These aren’t stars at all, but sand-grain sized particles which burn up upon entering our atmosphere, left over from the debris shed by Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. Grab a warm drink, coat and a blanket and see what you can spot. Although the radiant for the shower is towards the northeast, the meteors can appear to come from any direction in the sky. If you have binoculars handy, use them to spot the trails left over from some of the brighter meteors; these often remain visible for a minute or so after the main flash has happened.

Mercury

The innermost planet can’t be seen easily with the unaided eye this month as it appears too close to the Sun.

Venus

Venus has now left our evening skies, and from the last week in August it becomes the morning star, where it will remain until February 2024. The Greeks gave Venus the name Eosphorus, or Phosphorus when it appeared in the morning sky, and Hesperus when it shone as the evening star. They did not realise that these two objects were actually one and the same planetary body.

Mars

Mars is lost in the Sun’s glare this month.

Jupiter & Saturn

Saturn steals the show this month, already climbing high in the southeast by 11pm. It is visible just above a near-full Moon on the 30th (see figure). To spot it, try and blot out the light from the Moon with your hand and hunt for Saturn just to the upper right of it. Late in the August evenings, Jupiter becomes visible low in the northeast and is dazzlingly bright as it rises higher in the sky.

Moon

There are two full moons this month, one on the 1st August, and one on the 31st.

Star of the month

Vega, the fifth brightest star in the sky, represents one of the corners that make up the Summer Triangle asterism which is high in the sky during August (see figure). Due to precession, it was the North Pole Star around 14,000 years ago, and our ancestors most likely used it for navigation purposes across Europe. Vega has many ‘firsts’ for a star; it was first to be photographed and was the first to be analysed with a spectrometer to reveal its absorption lines. It was also the first star found to have a disk of dust surrounding it. It rotates really quickly; if it were to spin much faster it would rip itself apart.

Fuelled for e ciency

Five of the most fuel-efficient petrol cars on the UK market.

While there are a number of ways we can seek the most out of our motors when it comes to driving technique and conditions, a petrol engine’s raw, operational ability to clock through the miles per gallon of petrol is something that’s largely set.

So if you’re looking to maximise fuel efficiency, take a look at the following marvellous motors.

Suzuki Swift (65.7 mpg)

Where fuel efficiency goes, the Suzuki Swift is seriously impressive, with a claimed fuel economy of up to 65.7 mpg. That means, at current fuel cost, a five-mile journey on relatively clear, urban roads, will cost around 50p in petrol.

The Swift, a 1.2-litre, fivespeed manual or automatic gearbox also comes with a range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking.

Kia Picanto (60 mpg)

Known for its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency, the Kia Picanto advertises up to 53.3 mpg, though a number of tests have shown these levels to increase up to 60mpg. That would mean a five-mile journey could set you back as little as 55p.

The car also comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control and rear-view camera.

Citroen C3 (55.1 mpg)

Comfort as well as peace, the C3 has a 83bhp petrol engine that gives impressive numbers for fuel efficiency – a five-mile trip will set you back just 59p in petrol cost.

In any case, what it may lack in an infotainment system it makes up for in terms of space in the back for passengers.

Mazda 2 (52.3 mpg)

Known for its sporty handling, sleek design and fuel efficiency, the Mazda 2 is available as both a hatchback and a sedan and is a popular choice for city driving and commuting.

It comes with a 1.5-litre petrol engine that produces up to 90 horsepower, and will set you back around 60p for five miles of uninterrupted driving.

Volkswagen up! (52.3 mpg)

Fun to drive, practical and fuel efficient, the VW up! can produce up to 66 horsepower from its small 1-litre engine.

Similar to the Mazda 2 in terms of fuel efficiency, it also includes a touchscreen infotainment system, rearview camera and automatic climate control.

Worst fuel efficiencies

In contrast, and comparing the recent new cars on the market, here are a selection that will get you least far for your money:

Audi S8 – 21.7mpg (£1.49 for five miles)

Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – 23.5mpg (£1.38)

Lexus LC500 – 24.2mpg (£1.34)

Audi AQ5 – 24.6mpg (£1.32)

Mercedes S500 – 25.2mpg (£1.28)

Puzzle Page Answers

Quick Crossword Solution #030

Answers:

Across: 5. Presenter, 8. Clef, 9. Upstairs, 10. Iceberg, 11. Beast, 13. Swarm, 15. Babysit, 18. Ostinati, 19. Acre, 20. Vegetables.

Down: 1. Prefab, 2. Estuary, 3. Angst, 4. Behave, 6. Clockwise, 7. Brasserie, 12. Magical, 14. Raider, 16. Yearly, 17. Bagel.

World Cup Trivia Answers

Edd Kimber’s

Olive Oil, Pistachio And Lemon Snack Cake

Delight your afternoon tea guests with this joyous one-tin bake from The Great British Bake Off’s first ever champ, Edd Kimber.

This simple pistachio cake is made in a food processor, so it takes just minutes to prepare, and the machine does all the heavy lifting for you. Serve it with a simple lemon and sugar glaze and sprinkle with a few roughly chopped pistachios and dried rose petals.

Ingredients

(10 to 12 servings)

For the cake

• 200ml olive oil, plus extra for greasing

• 140g shelled pistachios, plus a few extra for decoration

• 65g ground almonds

• 65g gluten-free plain flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• 1 tsp fine sea salt

• 200g caster sugar

• 4 large eggs

Method

• Zest of 1 lemon

For the glaze

• 200g icing sugar

• 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice

• Pinch of fine sea salt

• Chopped pistachios

• Dried rose petals

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas mark 4. Lightly grease your 15x40cm

baking tin and line with a strip of parchment paper that overhangs the long sides, securing it in place with metal clips.

2. Place the pistachios in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the blade attachment and pulse until they are finely ground. Tip into a large bowl along with the ground almonds, flour, baking powder and salt and mix together.

3. Put the sugar, eggs and lemon zest in the processor bowl and process for about a minute. With the machine still running, slowly pour in the oil. Once fully combined, add the mixed dry ingredients and process for a second or two until evenly incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared tin and spread evenly.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until lightly browned and the cake is set in the middle. Set aside to cool completely in the tin before using the parchment paper to lift it out.

5. For the glaze, mix the icing sugar, lemon juice and salt in a bowl until you have a thick but pourable paste. Pour it over the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Sprinkle with a few extra chopped pistachios and dried rose petals to decorate.

Top tips

• To make this cake vegan, swap out the eggs with this alternative: 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed and 3 tablespoons of water for every chicken’s egg

• If stored in a sealed container, the cake should keep for 3–4 days