House & Lifestyle | 250

Tel: 01202 897474 / 893377

Open Monday - Saturday 9am - 5pm Ringwood Road, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9AL sales@davidphipp.co.uk

Pergolas/Glass

Awnings

Welcome

Bridalwear trends, romantic getaways and bathroom san uaries, we have all going on this month – w h Mar a ing as the gateway into ring we enter the month w h a renewed sense of vigour!

From oversized bows to black dresses for the alternative bride, the experts share their predictions on what fashionable brides will be wearing down the aisle this year. Add the feelgood factor to your bathroom by creating your own spa-inspired haven with our top buys. A romantic break doesn’t need to break the bank, find out where you can enjoy an extended date night on a budget in the UK. For the conscientious eaters who are trying to adopt a more vegan lifestyle, cookery writer Annie Rigg shares her top tips for tasty and healthy plant based meals. Or if cost-cutting is your culinary motivation Gennaro Contaldo gives his advice on how to be a more thrifty chef – plus he shares some indulgent Italian recipes from his new cookbook. Find out why it is a great time to visit Disneyland Paris as they are set to leave the kids (both big and small) speechless with their new jaw-dropping night sky spectacle.

ABOUT US

House & Lifestyle is a monthly magazine with approximately 150,000 readers and available in hundreds of outlets throughout Dorset and Hampshire. Pick up a free copy each month from supermarkets, newsagents, estate agents, theatres, garden centres, shopping centres, health clubs, hotels, train stations, bus stations, bars, clubs, restaurants, garages, doctors surgeries, dentists, cafes, pubs and many other retail outlets. House & Lifestyle magazine is published by GWP Marketing Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden except with the express permission of the publisher. The views expressed in House & Lifestyle are those of the contributors and are not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff. GWP Marketing Ltd accepts no responsibility for content and / or advertising copy supplied by third parties.

FOLLOW US

Facebook @housemagdorset

Twitter @House_Mag

Instagram @housemagazine_dorset

SUBSCRIBE

www.house-mag.co.uk

ON THE COVER

CONTRIBUTORS

GARY

PEARCE

SALES DIRECTOR

vi @house-mag.co.uk | 01202 287165 ext #2

TALKING BUSINESS

21 RUMSEY OF SANDBANKS

Glass half full or glasss half empty?

PROPERTY

28 VISTACASAS

Vistacasas invites you to San Miguel de Salinas on the Costa Blanca, where paradise awaits you!

OUTDOOR LIVING

54 BRIDGMAN

Ready for the sunshine

READ ALL ABOUT IT

PENNYFARTHING HOMES LAUNCHES SHOW HOME AT SPRING MEADOWS

With 60% of homes already sold at the Spring Meadows new homes development, Pennyfarthing Homes has opened its doors to a new show home, a stunning three-bed detached house, The Anderbury. The show home is part of a collection of two-, three- and four- bedroom semi-detached and detached new homes in Fontmell Magna, Dorset.

POOLE HARBOUR FESTIVAL BACK WITH ITS BIGGEST EVER LINE UP

Poole and Bournemouth’s biggest and best family live music weekend is back with a bang this summer having lined up its starriest bill to date headlined by chart toppers The Hoosiers, The Lightning Seeds and The Cheeky Girls.

Thousands are expected for the three-day festival at Baiter Park from 28 to 30 July, attracted by the stellar line up of household name bands, A-list DJs, classic tributes and the best music talent the BCP region has to o er - an incredible 50 acts on four stages.

Add to that the festival’s famous familyfriendly atmosphere and budget-conscious ticket pricing structure and there are all the ingredients for a weekend to remember.

As ever, there’s a strong line up of crowdpleasing tributes to the likes of Queen, Foo

POOLE HARBOUR FESTIVAL www.pooleharbourfestival.com

Fighters, Prodigy, Guns N’ Roses, REM and Coldplay, as well as a DJ bill topped by the one and only Brandon Block, with cut-n-paste king Jaguar Skills, original Junglist Nicky Blackmarket, Bournemouth’s own Freeze and other dance scene movers and shakers.

Over the years, Poole Harbour Festival has earned a deserved reputation for its quality food and drink o er and revellers can be sure of a great selection of delicious street food and a wide choice of local ales and ciders at the bars.

Poole Harbour Festival opens at 5pm on Friday, noon on Saturday and 11am on Sunday, closing at 11pm on Friday and Saturday and 7pm on Sunday.

Tickets available now at www. pooleharbourfestival.com.

Sheetal Smith, Sales and Marketing Director for Pennyfarthing Homes, said:  “We are delighted to welcome house hunters to this picturesque corner of Dorset to showcase our new show home and to experience more of this charming development that boasts a generous range of high-quality, stylish homes, suitable for first-time buyers through to families looking for more space and downsizers.”

The show home is available to view by appointment only, open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-5pm. To find more please get in touch with a Spring Meadows sales representative on 01202 403144 or email springmeadows@pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk.

PENNYFARTHING HOMES

www.pennyfarthinghomes.co.uk

late news ories in your area.

Meet the floppy-eared new arrival, a Critically Endangered mountain bongo, born to parents Canela and Ituri on Monday 30 January.

The bongo calf is said to be doing well, with mother Canela reported to be doing a great job of attending to her new charge.

In the wild, mountain bongos are found in four distinct areas of Kenya where they live in forests and highlands.

It’s thought there are fewer than 100 of these animals left in the wild and as populations continue to decline, the importance of captive mountain bongo breeding programmes has never been greater.

Conservation charity Marwell Wildlife owns and operates the zoo, which gives guests the chance to see gira es, rhinoceros, zebra and tigers amongst many rare and endangered species.

Prebooking is recommended for our best prices and more information can be found at www.marwell.org.uk.

INSPIRATIONAL VENDÉE GLOBE SAILOR, PIP HARE ENCOURAGES THE COMMUNITY TO JOIN IN THE BOURNEMOUTH BAY RUN

World renowned solo yachtswoman Pip Hare is encouraging runners and joggers to support their local charity hospice, LewisManning Hospice Care and join in the Bournemouth Bay Run which takes place on 2nd April 2023.

Pip, whose craft Medallia is based in Poole Quay Boat Haven, will be sailing singlehanded, non-stop, around the world as a competitor in the 2024 Vendée Globe race.

In the 2020/21 race, Pip finished as the first British skipper, and in 19th place overall, despite having one of the oldest boats in the fleet.

She said, “I encourage people to get involved and help your local community hospice charity, Lewis-Manning and come on board with the Bournemouth Bay Run.  There is a selection of events to involved in, including walking, jogging or running either a 1k, 5k, 10k or half marathon – there’s an event to suit every ability.

“Help your local charity hospice, LewisManning Hospice Care, to raise vital funds which will allow them to continue their support to the patients and loved ones that benefit from their services.

“This is a brilliant opportunity to take on a personal challenge in 2023. By joining the Lewis-Manning community, you will be directly impacting the lives of hundreds of local patients and their loved ones.

LEWIS-MANNING HOSPICE CARE www.lewis-manning.org.uk

You’ll also get a Lewis-Manning running vest. I encourage everyone to sign up be a local super-hero and do your local charity hospice proud!”

Anyone wishing to enter the Bournemouth Bay Run and support Lewis-Manning Hospice care is advised to visit https:// bournemouthbayrun.co.uk/

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is one of three o icially supported charities this year in what is the 40th annual Bournemouth Bay Run on Sunday April 2.

https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/ Bournemouth-Bay-Run-23-LMHC

MARWELL ZOO www.marwell.org.uk

DORSET NEON RUN BACK AT POOLE PARK

Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, has announced that its Dorset Neon Run is returning to Poole Park on Saturday, April 22nd.

The Dorset Neon Run is a five-kilometre evening fun run for participants to run, walk, dance, or jog around during the colourful fundraiser. Entertainment will come from HOT Radio on the night, as well a fun Clubbercise warm-up.

Lucy Rowley, events fundraising o icer at Diverse Abilities, commented: “Dorset Neon Run is a really fun event and as it isn’t time chipped allows participants to run, jog, walk, or dance at their own pace. If you’d like help to prepare, you can join our Facebook group where we will guide you through Couch to 5K.”

Dorset Neon Run is open to anyone over the age of 12 and under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Registration opens on the night from 7.30pm and the race will start at 8.30pm.

As well as the five-kilometre Dorset Neon route, the charity is hosting The Family 2K. A run for all the family which takes place earlier in the day from 5pm and is an adapted route so it is suitable for all the family.

Visit dorsetneonrun.com to find out more and sign up today. Search ‘Dorset Neon Run 2023’ on Facebook to join the group and get involved in Couch to 5K.

DIVERSE ABILITIES

www.diverseabilities.org.uk

Young people flourish when they feel safe, valued, respected, supported and inspired. Talbot Heath School, named as one of the most innovative and influential independent schools in the UK, fosters in its pupils, from age 3 to 18, a ‘can do’ attitude, encouraging them to think big while helping them to develop the self-belief and principles that will keep them grounded while they fly high. Rockets reach their dizzy heights because they are equipped and supported by a team of experts.

The rigorous teaching, high standards and outstanding pastoral care at the school ensure that all the foundations are in place to allow the young people to explore and discover their loves and passions.

Pupils at Talbot Heath have dreams and aspirations but know that these will only be achieved through hard work, determination and tenacity. They do not expect the world to come to them on a plate, they appreciate that it is substance, time and e ort that brings the most sparkling and ambitious of plans to fruition. Teamwork, kindness, compassion and selflessness are the

TALBOT HEATH

www.talbotheath.org

qualities that will enable them to overcome adversity, to build the strong relationships that will be so important in their lives, both personally and professionally.

Angharad Holloway, Head, tells us “My own daughter has headed o to university this year from Talbot Heath, to take on a challenging undergraduate course. ‘Don’t worry,’ said a fellow colleague. ‘ She is from Talbot Heath, she won’t crumple in the face of a challenge, she is resilient and will adapt to whatever challenges she will face. She has learnt to think for herself, hone and refine her ideas and articulate them. TH pupils don’t go out into the world as shrinking violets - they are resourceful and determined.’ And at that moment, I realised that this is the product of an education that is supportive yet dynamic. Talbot Heath is both the anchor and the kite.

“We head into our new term with vim and vigour, an educational ‘James Webb telescope’,  excited to embrace the new, knowing that our strong foundations will enable us to go boldly where no school has gone before.”

TALBOT HEATH IS BOTH THE ANCHOR AND THE KITE

PETER HARDING WEALTH MANAGEMENT RENEWS SUPPORT FOR LEWIS-MANNING HOSPICE CARE

Peter Harding Wealth Management (PHWM) reflects on its successful 2-year partnership with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and renews its support for the 3rd consecutive year.

PHWM Marketing Manager, Julian Barrett said, “We really enjoy our partnership supporting Lewis-Manning.  They provide us with so many varied and diverse ways to get involved with the local community.  We’ve had so much fun, which includes; supporting their art exhibition at The Lighthouse in Poole, getting involved in the Christmas tree recycling scheme, during which we purchased 10 Christmas trees from the hospice and donated them to deserving local causes across Dorset.

“A particularly memorable event was the ‘3 Peak Challenge’ which took place at Rock Reef indoor climbing activity attraction on Bournemouth Pier, during which the team of sta climbed the equivalent of the 3 Peaks.

“Our support, to date, has resulted in over £17,000 of commitment to the charity.”

Established in 1993, PHWM has High Street o ices situated in Canford Cli s, Sherborne, Shaftesbury as well as Corsham in Wiltshire.

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

www.peterhardingwm.co.uk

A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO PURCHASE GREAT VALUE NEW BUILD PROPERTIES!

San Miguel de Salinas is a small Spanish town located in the Southern part of the Alicante province, near the city of Torrevieja and the Orihuela Costa.

San Miguel de Salinas has a unique microclimate, due to its unbeatable location near the salt lakes of Torrevieja, which has been recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as one of the healthiest places to live in the world. The fresh and pure mineral-laden air, the more than 300 days of sunshine a year, the mild winters without snow, and the fresh fruits and vegetables always available make this place the most suitable for holidays or permanent living.

The charm of this wonderful town is not solely due to its climate with healing properties, but it also has its own sightseeing spots, since its history dates back centuries. With the old church of San Miguel Arcangel, located in the central square of the town, which is the heart and soul of the town.

San Miguel de Salinas is a very community orientated place to live, with friendly faces throughout the town, and retains its typical Spanish character, while not being far from the city of Torrevieja, and just 45 minutes from Alicante airport.

Vistacasas are excited to present to you two very interesting New Build developments, which are already selling very quickly due to their excellent value. When purchasing via Vistacasas, you can be rest assured that your purchase will be dealt with professionally and securely, with staged payments, all backed by bank guarantees throughout the construction period. They will be on hand to assist from A to Z with your New Build purchase. Remember, they o er exclusive extras included with every New Build purchase. Want to view all their New Build selection in San Miguel? Scan the QR code with your phone!

Turn to page 29 for more information about these properties and San Miguel de Salinas.

PETER HARDING

A UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE ON BUYING, RENTING AND SELLING HOMES.

WESTBOURNE £675,000

This bright and spacious detached family home is set in an enviable position close to the popular shops, bars and restaurants in Westbourne whilst also being adjacent to the Bournemouth gardens which run from Coy Pond all the way to the town centre and beach. There is enormous potential for this very versatile property.

Four Bedrooms | Detached House | Quiet Location | Flexible Accommodation | Large Gardens | Vendor Suited | Garage

BOURNEMOUTH £275,000

An exceptionally spacious two bedroom two bathroom second floor apartment situated within close proximity to Bournemouth town centre as well as Westbourne Village. The property backs directly onto Bournemouth Gardens and also benefits from spacious accommodation, ample storage, south facing balcony and no chain.

Two Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | Second Floor | Quiet Location | No Chain | Secure Off Road Parking

WESTBOURNE £285,000

A bright and well presented two bedroom ground floor apartment situated in the popular tree lined Portarlington road which sits a short level walk to the many shops, bars and restaurants in Westbourne whilst also being near to the ward winning beach and good travel connections. The property is in superb order throughout and is offered with vacant possession.

Two Bedrooms | Ground Floor | Balcony | Spacious Lounge | Share of Freehold | Garage

WESTBOURNE | 01202 767633

westbourne@winkworth.co.uk

WESTBOURNE £290,000

A spacious two double bedroom ground floor apartment located just a short level walk away from Westbourne village. The property is presented in immaculate condition throughout with ample storage, balcony, modern kitchen and bathrooms. Allocated off road parking and share of the freehold. Viewing highly recommended.

Two Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms | Level walk to Westbourne | Pitched Roof | Balcony | Allocated Parking

01 | GEORGE Butterfly Hand towel, £4.50; Butterfly Bath Towel Red, pink, £8; Butterfly Bath sheet, £11 ~ 02 |

Pink Knot Wood Stool, £54.99 ~ 03 | DFS Roxie armchair in Pink Vibe Velvet, £499 ~ 04 | CUCKOOLAND Lorena Canals Washable Geometric Round Rug Pink, £140 ~ 05

Clara Table & 4 Pink Chairs, £795, by Julien

|

Cumulo 3 Seater Sofa, £1,495 ~

£53

Pink Bobble Vase, £26 ~

Bar Stool, Blush Pink Recycled Velvet & Brass, £129

£499

TALBOT WOODS, FREEHOLD | GUIDE PRICE £795,000

Kept within the same family for over 50 years - a substantial four bedroom detached home situated in a premier location within the sought after Talbot Woods. The property offers generous living accommodation and the opportunity for further updating whilst benefitting from a private garden and garage. No forward chain.

TALBOT WOODS, FREEHOLD | OIEO £1,000,000

A substantial detached home situated in the premier Talbot Woods location. Offering in excess of 2,300 sq ft of accommodation, open plan kitchen/dining room, three reception, four bath/ shower, impressive master bedroom suite and flexible accommodation, heated swimming pool, double garage. Annexe potential.

BOURNEMOUTH, FREEHOLD | £450,000

An immaculate three bedroom detached character home located in a sought after residential and school catchment location. Featuring open plan kitchen/breakfast room, separate living room, sun room, modern family bathroom, downstairs WC, south facing rear garden plus off road parking.

DEAN PARK, LEASEHOLD | OIEO £250,000

A spacious two double bedroom ground floor apartment featuring many character features including high ceilings situated in the sought after Dean Park location. Benefitting from a private entrance, long lease and garage in block. No forward chain.

DEAN PARK, LEASEHOLD | GUIDE PRICE £340,000

A superbly presented two double bedroom, two bathroom ground floor apartment situated in the popular Dean Park, moments from Bournemouth town centre. The property benefits from an en suite shower room, secure under ground parking, long lease. Lift, private decked terrace and stunning communal gardens.

BOURNEMOUTH, FREEHOLD | GUIDE PRICE £425,000

An immaculate three bedroom detached character house located in a sought after school catchment location. Featuring stunning modern kitchen, separate living/dining room with bifold doors onto terrace area, modern family shower room, secluded rear garden plus off road parking and one bedroom separate annex.

TALBOT WOODS, FREEHOLD | £1,565,000

A spectacular detached character home situated on a large plot within a most sought after location. Boasting five bedrooms, three modern bath/shower rooms, impressive open plan dining/family room, a luxury kitchen/breakfast room, balcony and west facing garden. No onward chain.

BOURNEMOUTH, FREEHOLD | GUIDE PRICE £625,000

A character four/five bedroom detached home ideally located within easy reach of Bournemouth hospital, JP Morgan and local grammar schools. Further benefits include modern kitchen/breakfast room, master en suite, two reception rooms, conservatory, ample off road parking, detached garage and spacious rear garden.

QUEENS PARK, FREEHOLD | £800,000

An impressive four double bedroom detached character house located within the premier Queens Park location. Featuring three reception rooms, stunning kitchen/breakfast room and two bath/shower rooms. Off road parking and private garden.

TALBOT WOODS, SHARE OF FREEHOLD | GUIDE PRICE £325,000

A beautifully presented two double bedroom, first floor, character apartment situated within the prestigious Talbot Woods. The property benefits from a spacious living room with feature fireplace, refitted bathroom, parking and garage. Share of freehold.

QUEENS PARK, LEASEHOLD | OIEO £210,000

A two double bedroom first floor apartment located in the premier Queens Park location in close proximity to Queens Park golf course. Featuring a open plan kitchen / living room, two double bedrooms, modern bathroom and allocated parking. Vendor suited.

BOURNEMOUTH, SHARE OF FREEHOLD | £160,000

A superbly presented one double bedroom lower ground floor apartment ideally located within easy reach of Bournemouth town centre, award winning sandy beaches and main transport links. Open plan kitchen / living room. Modern shower room. Allocated parking. Long lease. No forward chain.

FERNDOWN | £950,000

This superbly appointed and beautifully finished four double bedroom, one bathroom, two shower room, three reception room detached family home has an U-shaped southerly and westerly facing garden with a detached double garage and a driveway. As well as offering light, spacious and versatile accommodation the property has been finished to an extremely high standard. This simply stunning and superbly positioned 2,947 sq ft family home occupies a private plot measuring 0.23 of an acre whilst nestled away at the end of a peaceful and sought after cul-de-sac.

FERNDOWN | £820,000

This beautifully finished and re-modelled four bedroom, one bathroom, one en-suite, two reception room detached family home has a double glazed conservatory overlooking a private 60’ west facing rear garden, double garage and front driveway providing generous off road parking for several vehicles.

FERNDOWN | GUIDE PRICE £730,000

This immaculately presented and generous sized three double bedroom, one bathroom, one shower room detached bungalow has a 55ft private south facing rear garden, double garage and driveway.The property is tucked away in an extremely sought after and convenient cul-desac location approximately 900 metres from Ferndown’s town centre.

FERNDOWN | GUIDE PRICE £625,000

This superbly positioned and generous sized four bedroom, two shower room, three reception room detached family home occupies a large, secluded corner plot with immaculately kept gardens, double garage and driveway. The property has the added and unusual feature of an internal lift, therefore the property should appeal to a wide range of buyers including a disabled or elderly buyer.

FERNDOWN | £600,000

This superbly positioned and generous sized three double bedroom, one bathroom, one shower room detached bungalow has a private south facing rear garden, double garage and driveway. The property is situated in a soughtafter cul-de-sac location whilst conveniently situated less than half a mile from Ferndown’s town centre. The property also now comes to the market with no onward chain.

BOURNEMOUTH | £475,000

This substantially enlarged and beautifully finished three double bedroom detached chalet bungalow has a private west facing rear garden, a former detached garage now used as storage space with adjoining store, summerhouse/home office and driveway providing off road parking. The current owners have managed to create a light, spacious and stylish family home.

Victoria Road, Ferndown

FERNDOWN | £1,170,000

This beautifully finished and extended four double bedroom, two bathroom, two shower room, two reception room 1930’s detached family home set on a plot approaching 1/3 of an acre is arranged over three floors with a 23ft balcony overlooking a 115ft private, west facing and landscaped rear garden, a front in and out driveway and detached single garage. Conveniently located less than half a mile from Ferndown town centre.

WEST PARLEY | GUIDE PRICE £900,000

This well maintained and extremely spacious 3011 sq ft five bedroom, two bathroom, one shower room, three reception room detached family home has a double glazed conservatory overlooking a private rear garden with a detached outbuilding (former tandem garage) and driveway, whilst sitting centrally on a good size secluded plot measuring 0.24 of an acre. Sought after location. The property may require some modernisation.

FERNDOWN | GUIDE PRICE £700,000

This extended and extremely versatile 2,100 sq ft four double bedroom, two bathroom, one shower room, two reception room detached family home has a double glazed conservatory overlooking a 100ft private rear garden, with a single garage, adjoining car port and a front driveway providing generous off-road parking. Occupying a secluded plot measuring 0.35 of an acre.

FERNDOWN | GUIDE PRICE £550,000

This superbly positioned and well proportioned sized three double bedroom, one bathroom, one shower room, two reception room detached bungalow has a private west facing rear garden, detached double garage and driveway. Located approximately 500 metres from the town centre. Offered with no onward chain.

BOURNEMOUTH | OIEO £475,000

This well maintained and generous sized four bedroom, two reception room detached family home occupies a generous sized and southerly facing plot with a 50’ rear garden and double garage. The property enjoys a pleasant outlook over a green open space. The property has an enormous amount of scope and potential (stpp). Offered with no onward chain.

BOURNEMOUTH | £460,000

This well presented and generous sized three double bedroom, one bathroom, one shower room, detached family home has a detached single garage, driveway providing generous off-road parking and secluded gardens. The property enjoys an elevated position with a pleasant wooded outlook whilst being tucked away in a sought after yet convenient location within Redhill.

TINA

Friday 3rd March

Friday 17th March

Friday 7th April NEIL DIAMOND

Friday 12th May

Glass Half Full or Glass Half Empty?

I’m the sort of person that always looks for the positive in everything- I was glad when I ruptured a disc because I lost some weight, had a nice lie down and the surgeon says it’s now stronger than the other discs. My wife on the other hand when offered a drink might well observe that not only is the glass half empty, it’s the wrong sort of water and she’s not thirsty anyway.

I’ve been writing about holiday property marketing for years and I’ve constantly returned to the theme of using data not emotion to make decisions in the business. One of the articles that sticks most in my mind was a few years ago when I was convinced that people were booking holidays later and wrote about how we were going to have to adjust to this new reality, but when I ran the numbers it turned out not to be true at all, in fact bookings were coming in slightly earlier on average than before.

The problem is that no matter how much data you have there is always scope to interpret it in different ways so we can end up right back in glass half full/empty territory.

Let’s take a simple and uncontroversial bit of data and conclusion- If you haven’t sold all your summer holiday weeks by the end of May then your agent is doing something wrong. That’s completely clear except that if you have sold all your summer holiday weeks by the end of May then your agent is doing something wrong!

What on earth am I on about? This is a perfect example of something that can be interpreted both ways- Demand exceeds

supply in the summer holidays so every week should sell and how soon is a function of presentation and price married with the length of time a property has been available.

When a property has 20 weeks booked by the end of January the owner is really happy and may even send bottles of wine or chocolates into the office to thank us for doing such a great job. On the other hand how would we tell if we have got the pricing hopelessly wrong for a property and charged too little? Yes that’s right, you’d know because you would sell lots of weeks really early in the year! If the pricing is dead right on a property then it probably has one or two summer holiday weeks left by May which will fill up in the next month or so but this is not what makes an owner happy so that leaves me with a further dilemmado I set prices for optimum revenue or to maximise owner satisfaction? Trouble is if I ask they will normally say they want optimum revenue but what they mean is they want to sell the most weeks earliest. Sometimes my job is like being on one of those staircases in an Escher painting where you keep climbing but end up back where you started. (see ‘Relativity’ on the Escher Wikipedia page)

The strict technical truth is that every week we sell was too cheap and every week we didn’t sell was too expensive but thinking about this too much will simply drive you to the funny farm so we are back to being slightly less technical about things- if bookings are below average then we’ll try and send more traffic to the page or reduce the price which is broadly speaking what would have been done before we had any data.

Plus ca change, plus c’est la meme chose!

The next bit of interpretation is the self fulfilling prophesy or skewed data set to be slightly more technical. I once went to see a property in an excellent location that was looking at joining us as their bookings were poor. It was a normal sized 3 bed place but set up to sleep 10-12 with bunk beds and sofa beds. My immediate comment was that the place needed to be reduced to a sleeps 5 or 6 in comfort but the owner said that couldn’t possibly be the answer as everyone who booked used all the extra beds. Clearly this was a skewed data setthe sample was people who had booked somewhere with everyone crammed in on the cheap. If we set up a horror themed apartment with black walls dripping with blood and skeletons in the corners all the guests who came would say that they liked the decor but I’m not convinced we would be maximising bookings at the property! Actually there probably is a market for holiday dungeons but we won’t go there.

I’m still a big fan of looking at the data but maybe I’m kidding myself as there’s still as much art in the conclusions as there is science.

Simon Tolson owns Rumsey of Sandbanks, a holiday letting agency.

Contact Simon on 01202 707357.

simon@rumseyofsandbanks.co.uk

www.rumseyofsandbanks.co.uk

There’s always more than one way to look at things.

However, why should you choose blinds over other options like curtains? Whether you want to install

1.

morning.

2. Countless Styles, Colours, & Patterns

Window blinds come in an endless variety of styles, colours, and patterns, allowing you to create the perfect look in your kitchen, living room, or bathroom. Choose from mini blinds, vertical blinds, roman blinds, and even cordless blinds, which are safer for children and pets as well as being very elegant.

3. Wide Variety of Materials

The variety of materials that blinds come in allows you to choose the blind that is most suitable for you in terms of both price and style. For example, if your living room contains wooden furniture, you can complement the room by installing wooden blinds. However, if you find wooden blinds too expensive, you can opt for faux wood instead to keep the costs down. You then have plastic blinds, bamboo blinds, aluminium blinds, and other materials to choose from to ensure that you can always find the right blinds for any room in your home.

4. Enjoy Complete Privacy

Blinds provide you with a level of privacy that you cannot get from many other options such as curtains. For the ultimate in privacy control, consider installing top-down shades. Using these, you can lower the shade from the top so that the natural light can come in, but you can still enjoy as much privacy as you require.

5. Easy to Maintain

Finally, one of the best things about window blinds is that they are typically very easy to maintain. In fact, many blinds simply require a quick wipe with

a damp cloth from time to time to remove the dust. Compare this to curtains, which need to be washed every once in a while, and blinds start to look like the most convenient option. In addition, they are also long lasting, especially blinds made from wood or aluminium, meaning you won’t have to replace them until you decide you are ready for a change.

Find the Perfect Blinds for Your Home

Whatever style you have in mind for the rooms in your home, consider installing window blinds. Not only can they become a unique feature of the room, but they also don’t have to cost the earth. In fact, they can often be cheaper to buy and install than curtains, especially if you choose an option like faux wood instead of real wood. So have a look online or in the store next time you go shopping and try to find the perfect window blinds for your home.

We offer a comprehensive made to measure and fitting service for ease of mind or you can choose the self fit option. Whichever service you partake of, you can be assured that your blinds will be custom made to meet your requirements, that you will be kept up to date, and that you will receive an excellent service.

Plantation Shutters

award-winning, contemporary architects... delivering design perfection.

Whether you’re renovating, building new, or just wanting to add some flavour to a room, Superior Fires has plenty of options to help you turn your house into a home.

Vistacasas invites you to San Miguel de Salinas on the Costa Blanca, where paradise awaits you!

San Miguel de Salinas has all the necessary ingredients to o er quality of life in capital letters to its residents: nature, heritage, culture, gastronomy, sport and the Mediterranean.

When a person, especially from another country, visits a town like ours, they have the opportunity to really get to know what life is like in the southeast of Spain. How are our customs, our traditions, our way of life.

Our municipality is the ideal place because it combines the tranquillity of a small town with the possibility of enjoying the hustle and bustle of larger cities that are relatively close to San Miguel.

Walking through San Miguel de Salinas is a paradise for the senses. Depending on the time of year, you will be accompanied by di erent smells: firewood, citrus fruits, aromatic plants; and many unique images such as the landscape of almond trees in blossom and spectacular sunsets.

The cultural and sporting events can be enjoyed all year round: concerts, openair summer cinema, street theatre and sporting competitions enliven the life of the municipality during all seasons.

We have privileged natural areas such as Sierra Escalona nature park, which gives us the possibility of doing sports or hiking in the open air all year round, as well as other more specific activities such as birdwatching, as our ecosystem is home to the largest population of eagle owls in the country.

San Miguel de Salinas retains the essence of the farming generations that forged it, but at the same time it is open to modernity and cultural diversity. Today, it welcomes people from over 30 di erent nationalities who come here attracted by the climate but stay to get to know our welcoming people and Mediterranean lifestyle.

The most important date of the year comes in September with the Fiestas in honour of our patron Saint “San Miguel Arcángel”.

It is the perfect opportunity to get to know our traditions and enjoy the gastronomy and music that fills the streets and bars for almost 3 weeks.

Finally, I must mention gastronomy. We are a privileged land when it comes to healthy food and delicious recipes. Our weekly market allows access to local fruit and vegetables all year round and we have a wide variety of typical dishes. An example of this is the traditional “caldo de pelotas” which is o ered in di erent establishments throughout the town.

I warmly invite everyone to visit San Miguel de Salinas, the place where paradise awaits you.

Nerea Gracia Fuster (pictured left) Councillor for Tourism for the Town Hall of San Miguel de Salinas

SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS FROM €149,900 REF: V3039

A complex of new build apartments which has two communal pool and gardens and a childrens’ play area ,within easy walking distance of all amenities in the town of San Miguel de Salinas. The properties comprise of having two bedrooms and two bathrooms, pre installation of air conditioning, induction hob and extractor hood. The ground floors have a spacious enclosed terrace and the top floors have a balcony terrace off of the lounge and also a roof solarium.

SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS FROM €149,900 REF: V3106

A complex of new build apartments for sale in Paradise Resort in San Miguel de Salinas. The complex has two communal pool and gardens and a children’s play area, within easy walking distance of all local amenities. The properties comprise of having two bedrooms and two bathrooms, pre installation of air conditioning, induction hob and extractor hood. The ground floors have a spacious enclosed terrace, mid floors with a decent balcony terrace and the top floors have a spacious terrace.

Bournemouth and Poole

WhatSayThey

How to transform your bathroom into a spa-inspired space

These bathroom essentials channel the feel-good factor, says Sam Wylie-Harris

It’s the place we bare all, relax and unwind; a soothing sanctuary where we wash the cares of the day away.

Indeed, turning a bog-standard bathroom into spa-inspired zen zone could even reduce stress, promote relaxation and boost your wellbeing. What’s not to love?

But if your washroom is looking a little lacklustre, your towels are feeling scratchy and the soap dish is dated, here’s how to dazzle up your downtime…

01. LOOK OF LUXE

These stylish bathroom accessories have the look of luxe without being spendy.

Rope Rectangle Basket in White, £5, Marble Mirror, £7, Square Woven Basket in White, £6, Towels from £3, B&M | PA Photo/B and M

02. BOUTIQUE HOTEL VIBES

This nifty navy set has boutique hotel written all over it. Especially if you play up the gold detailing with a sunburst mirror in a glam finish.

Ashley Bathroom Accessories Range: from £2.99 for the Soap Dish, to £4.99 for the Soap Dispenser, and £9.99 for Toilet Brush Holder, The Range | PA Photo/The Range

04. LUXURY FEEL

Texture is key with these luxuriously soft towels. Super absorbent with Egyptian cotton in the pile, it will only take a couple of pats to dry your skin.

Christy Renaissance Egg Shell Blue Towels, from £4.20 (Face Cloth, was £6), to £11.20 (Hand Towel, was £16), to £29.40, (Bath Sheet, was £42), Christy | PA Photo/Christy

03. RELAX FOR A SOAK

Bath racks are a godsend, especially when you want to light a candle, lie back and enjoy a long soak.

Grey Marble Soap Dispenser, £4, Marble Bathroom Duck, £3, Towels from £3, Brown Glass Jar Candle, £3, Black Over Bath Rack, £12, B&M in-store | PA Photo/B and M

When you want to mirror three favourite colours from a luxurious beach escape –think green swaying palm leaves, pink sand and

– these colourways

05. LUXURIOUS BEACH ESCAPE

azure blue skies

tick all the five-star boxes.

Matthew Williamson Luxury Soft Cotton Towels in Navy, Green and Pink, from £18 to £50, Next | PA Photo/Next

06. PRETTY IN PINK Pink, pretty and practical – the perfect addition to a bathroom this spring.

Ribbed Pink Bathroom Set, £5, Studio.co.uk | PA Photo/Studio.co.uk

09. EXOTIC VIBE

With a Middle Eastern vibe, this exotic towel collection will take you one step closer to a souk.

M&S X Fired Earth Marrakech Collection

Towel in Pompeiian Red, from £8 (Guest Towel) to £18 (Bath Towel), to £25.50 (Guest Sheet) | PA Photo/Marks and Spencer

10. ARTISAN FEEL

The next best thing to a bamboo-themed spa, this caddy feels bang up to date with an artisan, hand-finished feel.

George Natural Bamboo 3 Tier Storage Caddy, £18, George Bamboo Make Up Pad Storage, £6, rest of items from a selection, Direct.asda | PA Photo/Direct.asda

07. IDYLLIC OASIS

Create an indoor oasis with this faux foliage.

George Trailing Plant in Ceramic Pink Pot, £8, Direct.asda | PA Photo/Direct.asda

08. DOUBLE BUBBLE

An upscale bath caddy to cradle your hero body products, this one’s handmade from oak – and strong enough to hold a glass of sparkle… or two.

Wooden Bath Tidy, £60, The White Company | PA Photo/The White Company

11. RESORT-STYLE

For resort-style air drying, give your towels a good shake before hanging them on this Scandi-style towel rail. Ideal for bath sheets which need extra space to fluff up.

Southbourne Standing Towel Rail in Beech, £130, other items from a selection, Garden Trading | PA Photo/Garden Trading

12. ADD A LITTLE SHIMMER

Trending big time, glossy pink tiles with rich glazing have a bespoke feel, and shimmer like a conch shell. An added bonus, they’ll look just as striking as a splashback, if wallto-wall tiling isn’t suitable for your space.

Soho Rose Wall Tile, £44.40 per box (covers one square metre), Porcelain Superstore | PA Photo/Porcelain Superstore | PA Photo/ Porcelain Superstore

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris, PA

Taking a fresh view of the coastal property market

E stablished property experts Spencers have a brand new division, Spencers Coastal, with the Christchurch Bay department covering the stunning coastal area including Christchurch, Hengistbury Head, Mudeford, Friars Cliff, Highcliffe and Barton on Sea. With a senior management team boasting decades of local experience in Coastal properties, Spencers Coastal are the sole agent covering this entire coastal region from West of Christchurch to East of Lymington.

Living in Christchurch Bay

We live and breathe this stretch of open coastline and are passionate about attracting the best buyers to prime properties via our network of offices, consistently retaining our dominant market share.

Email: christchurchbay@spencerscoastal.com

Tel: 01425 205000

With unrivalled expertise, experience, network and reach, get in touch with the Coastal Specialists at Spencers Coastal to discuss your sale or purchase.

A brilliant four bedroom detached residence built in 2006, situated within attractive private south facing rear gardens; conveniently located a short walk away from Barton on Sea cliff top. EPR: C

To arrange a viewing contact the Christchurch Bay office

A spacious and well-presented detached bungalow located in the highly soughtafter area of Ashley Heath.

This delightful 5 bedroom cottage of nearly 300 years old, positions itself within 2.61 acres of impressive grounds and additional outbuildings. EPR: E

This delightful 5 bedroom cottage of nearly 300 years old, positions itself within 2.61 acres of impressive grounds and additional outbuildings. EPR: E

A wonderful detached five bedroom family home offering versatile accommodation throughout. A separate annexe provides perfect multi-generational living and having a separate entrance and self-contained living space. EPR: C

To arrange a viewing contact the Christchurch Bay Office

A spacious and architecturally impressive family residence situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, convenient distance to Ringwood town. EPR: F

Please contact the Ringwood office Please contact the Ringwood office

Barton on Sea

An impressive chalet residence situated within low maintenance gardens, located a short level walk from Barton on Sea clifftop (0.3 miles). This versatile home has the benefit of four double bedrooms, three bathrooms and spacious accommodation for family living. EPR: C

To arrange a viewing contact the Christchurch Bay Office

spacious and well-presented detached bungalow located in the highly soughtafter area of Ashley Heath. EPR: F

£1,350,000

A substantial detached four bedroom, two bathroom chalet bungalow in a peaceful hamlet nestled in the New Forest. The property offers versatile living with the addition of a one bedroom self contained annexe and a separate garden lodge. EPR: D

Rookes Lane, Lymington

A four-bedroom detached family house, which benefits from a modern open plan kitchen dining room and an annexe. Located in a prime position south of Lymington High Street. The property is a short walk from Woodside Park, Fisherman's Rest Pub, the Marina and Lymington High Street. EPR: D

To arrange a viewing contact the Lymington office

Milford on Sea

A unique opportunity to acquire a characterful four bedroom detached family home. Set within a superb plot in arguably one of the most desirable locations in Milford On Sea. The property boasts excellent accommodation with four bedrooms, kitchen, dining room, large living room and drawing room. EPR: TBC

o arrange a viewing contact the Lymington office 4 4 2 Burley 01425 404 088 Christchurch Bay 01425 205 000 Lymington 01590 674 222 Ringwood 01425 462 600 Lettings 01590 624 814

Brockenhurst 01590 622 551 WWW.SPENCERSCOASTAL.COM

This delightful 5 bedroom cottage of nearly 300 years old, positions itself within 2.61 acres of impressive grounds and additional outbuildings. EPR: E

This delightful 5 bedroom cottage of nearly 300 years old, positions itself within 2.61 acres of impressive grounds and additional outbuildings. EPR: E A spacious and well-presented

This delightful 5 bedroom cottage of nearly 300 years old, positions itself within 2.61 acres of impressive grounds and additional outbuildings.

spacious and well-presented detached bungalow located in the highly soughtafter area of

spacious and well-presented detached bungalow located in the highly soughtafter area of Ashley Heath. EPR: F

A beautifully presented four bedroom family home situated in the sought after development in Hightown. EPR: C

spacious and architecturally impressive family residence situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, convenient distance to Ringwood town. EPR: F

£560,000

detached bungalow located in the highly soughtafter area of Ashley Heath. EPR: F

A beautifully presented four bedroom family home situated in the sought after development in Hightown. EPR: C

A spacious and architecturally impressive family residence situated at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac, convenient distance to Ringwood town. EPR: F

The Misconceptions of Marriage

Having practiced in Family Law for over a decade, I have found that there are a number of false beliefs that people say to me time and time again, so in this article I am going to clear up some of the most popular ‘myths’ surrounding separation and divorce.

“If I move out of the family home, I will lose my rights”

The right to attend and occupy a property is governed by the Land Registry title. Whether married or not, if a property is held in joint names, then, (subject to any court orders) both parties are free to come and go from the property without restriction.

If a property is held in one party’s sole name, a spouse would be entitled to occupy the address under their matrimonial home rights, and enter a restriction on the Land Registry title. For unmarried couples, it is possible to obtain an Occupation Order for an ex-partner.

“We lived together as partners, so that’s the same as being married”

No. Cohabitation does not give a couple the same rights as marriage, there is no such thing as ‘a common law spouse’ in England and Wales and I have stunned many clients who learn, after their relationships have broken down, that they are going to have to fight for the return of any investment or contribution made to a partner’s property.

If two people are planning to move in together, it is important to consider a Cohabitation Agreement. This will record the intention for the property and any contributions now, in the future and in the event of a relationship breakdown.

Otherwise, it will be left to chance and the discretion of a Judge, who will have to try and decide what parties intended when they decided to live together.

“What we decided for the children now, won’t dictate the future”

One criteria considered when determining arrangements for children is ‘the impact of any change in circumstances.’ Temporary arrangements can become a routine and considered the status quo that becomes the starting point for the consideration of a Court.

“Assets split in divorce are those gained during a marriage or in joint names”

Courts consider everything held in joint or sole names of either party, including those accumulated before marriage, and any resources available to them, such as trust assets.

If someone is entering marriage with assets that they want to protect, then it is important to use a Pre-Nuptial Agreement. This will record what parties are bringing into the marriage, and what should be ‘ring-fenced’ to be kept by one party in the event of a divorce or separation.

“Pre-Nups aren’t legally binding”

In 2010, the Supreme Court gave a ground-breaking ruling in the case

of Radmacher v Granatino that said if parties enter into any agreement freely, knowing and understanding its implications, it is legally binding. This was confirmed in later cases in 2012 and 2018, so it is now recognised that Pre and Post-Nuptial Agreements are legally recognised.

“What happened to my friend will be the same for me”

There are a number of criteria that are written in law that the court are required to consider and apply when determining a case. Every person and relationship is different and their case should be treated as such - just one factor can bring an entirely different outcome.

“I’ll get a solicitor if things go wrong”

Getting independent legal advice early on means you will understand what you are entitled to, know your options and will be fully prepared to sign the documents that will dictate your future because, once you’ve signed, it is unlikely anything can be done to change the situation after.

Jonathan can be contacted at j.whettingsteel@duttongregory.co.uk or on 01962 624405

For more information, visit www.duttongregory.co.uk.

Jonathan Whettingsteel Partner and Family Law Specialist

Ready for the sunshine

The best time to buy garden furniture

It’s never too early to start thinking about transforming your garden in time for the sunshine. With so much to take into account, from quality to cost to durability to design, knowing when to buy your garden furniture is essential and requires a lot of research and forwardplanning, especially as the most in-demand styles often sell out early on in the season. So, when is the best time to buy garden furniture?

Francesca Hadland, Styling Expert for British furnituremakers Bridgman offers her thoughts on the best time to make this all-important purchase.

“As a general rule, you should buy your outdoor furniture around February to March. By shopping before garden season begins in the spring, you’ll have the most choice thanks to high stock availability – by buying out of season, you’re guaranteed to get the pieces you want before someone else does. Don’t let the rain dictate when you shop, with the right covers and storage, you won’t have to worry about keeping your furniture protected from the elements.”

PEACE OF MIND

Think of your garden furniture as an investment. Make sure to look after it and it will last for many years. Bridgman has an array of practical yet premium furniture covers, cushion storage and cleaning products to help you keep your exterior pieces looking their best.

ENDLESS DESIGN POSSIBILITIES

“Rattan is firmly back on the design scene with sun loungers, modular sofas and dining sets all beautifully crafted in this versatile style. For more modern homes, rope furniture offers an updated take on classic woven designs. A neutral colour palette of beige, grey and soft charcoal is another great choice for contemporary gardens.”

PLANNING AHEAD

Bridgman is giving customers who shop their garden furniture now the option to store their furniture free of charge until they are ready for it in the spring; perfect for those planning a garden transformation or garden party when the weather warms up.

With so many exquisite pieces available, Bridgman’s unparalleled catalogue of outdoor furniture has something to suit every space. To view the complete collection, visit one of their seven showrooms across the UK or head to bridgman.co.uk

If you’d like more information or advice, speak to a Furniture Expert from the comfort of your very own home using their Live Video Shopping service.

FAR LEFT

Cliveden Modular Set N, £5,999 and Cliveden Modular Centre, £859

ABOVE

Bespoke Henley Porcelain Marble & Teak Dining Table, from £1849 with Richmond Dining Chairs with Teak Legs, £629

LEFT Cannes 2 Seater Sofa, 2 Lounge Armchairs, Coffee Table and Side Table, £4,099

CONTACT

01962 877695 winchester@bridgman.co.uk

ADDRESS 10 City Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8SD

WEBSITE www.bridgman.co.uk

New 2023 Catalogue Available Now

Indulge in Spring Serenity

Enjoy perfect moments on the UK's nest luxury home and garden furniture. Dine and relax in exceptional comfort and statement style with handmade sofas, bespoke dining sets and fully waterproof outdoor furniture that you'll love for a lifetime.

Visit Bridgman's beautiful Winchester Showroom to explore the UK's nest home & garden furniture for yourself. Alternatively, call 01962 877695 or visit bridgman.co.uk to shop online.

BRIDGMAN.CO.UK

10 City Road, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 8SD

A night sky spectacle brings wow factor to Disneyland Paris

Damon Smith marvels at a record-breaking nighttime show that heralds a superpowered ninemonth conclusion to the resort’s 30th anniversary.

A crescendo of cheers and hollers greets a gargantuan 3D representation of Spider-Man, standing over 140 feet tall, attached by strands of brilliant white webbing to one side of the boldly geometric Twilight Zone Tower of Terror building in Disneyland Paris.

The red and blue spandex-clad superhero, realised using hundreds of drones in the night-time sky, waves benevolently at an exultant throng of mobile phonewielding guests, then amusingly loses his grip and surrenders to gravity with a staccato symphonic thud and a spurt of impeccably-timed pyrotechnics.

ABOVE

The Iron Man animatronic during the pre-show of the Avengers Assemble: Flight Force ride | PA

Photo/Disney

LEFT Damon Smith with Minnie Mouse | PA

Photo/ Damon Smith

RIGHT

The Avengers: Power The Night show | PA

Photo/Disney

This delightfully comical coda to the new Avengers: Power The Night spectacular at Walt Disney Studios Park heralds the Grand Finale of the resort’s 30th anniversary celebrations, which continue until September 30, with new attractions and offerings including the first drone show performed daily in any Disney park.

The jaw-dropping eight-minute extravaganza is performed nightly until May 8 (weather permitting) and harnesses energy-efficient laser video projections, fireworks, lights and special effects, alongside 500 illuminated airborne devices to conjure Captain America’s shield, thunder god Thor’s mighty hammer, Shang-Chi’s 10 interlocked gold rings and other supersized insignia.

Tony Stark’s artificial intelligence F.R.I.D.A.Y. (Female Replacement Intelligent Digital Assistant Youth) cajoles visitors into the Production Courtyard to savour visual effects, choreographed to a medley of themes from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, rearranged by Grammynominated Italian composer Marco Marinangeli and recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London with a symphony orchestra of more than 70 musicians.

When a digitally projected Iron Man unleashes a Repulsor blast from his armour suited hand on the building’s façade, a perfectly timed firework arcs into

the air, tracing the weapon’s path as rousing lines of dialogue in French and English underline a call to arms for teamwork and collaboration.

“Look after one another as if we were one single tribe,” purrs Black Panther, amidst swollen choral chants of Wakanda Forever.

Avengers: Power The Night is the latest milestone in a £1.7 billion expansion of Walt Disney Studios Park, which began in July last year with the opening of the immersive Avengers Campus and two centrepiece rides, SpiderMan W.E.B. Adventure and the turbo-charged Avengers Assemble: Flight Force roller-coaster.

The investment continues with the 2025 opening of a Frozen-themed kingdom of Arendelle, dominated by an ice castle atop a 131-foot snow-laden mountain, which overlooks a Scandinavian village nestled on the banks of a seven-acre lake.

In 2019, the reconfigured Studio Theatre in Walt Disney Studios Park hosted an action-packed Marvel: Super Heroes United stage show that pitted Iron Man, Captain America and allies against supervillain Thanos, augmented with innovative special effects, including a full-size car flying across the stage.

This summer, as part of the Grand Finale, the 1,100seat venue welcomes Pixar: We Belong Together, a rip-roaring musical adventure celebrating the enduring power of friendship that weaves together characters and songs from different animated films.

“We are aiming for a poetic and heartfelt story with a lot of emotion,” executive producer Astrid Gomez tells me. With a provisional running time of 28 minutes, the show is earmarked for five performances a day, and Gomez excitedly confides she is targeting a July opening (“fingers crossed”), shortly after the latest Pixar film Elemental arrives in cinemas.

“We imagined the show, so we could potentially incorporate a new scene,” she adds. Grand Finale festivities extend across the adjacent Disneyland Park.

ABOVE

The forthcoming Pixar show in Walt Disney Studios Park at Disneyland Paris | PA Photo/Disney/Pixar

LEFT

It’s A Small World at Disneyland Paris | PA Photo/Disney

The Disney D-Light drone show, conceived by Bordeaux-based company Dronisos for the 30th anniversary, continues to light up the sky before the Disney Illuminations night-time spectacular.

Finessed since its premiere in March last year, the seven minute-long display boasts 150 drones dancing in the air over the castle’s pearlescent towers to the infectious beat of the anniversary earworm “Un Monde Qui S’illumine”.

From April 12, as part of the Grand Finale, illuminations will be extinguished to make way for a revival of the award-winning Disney Dreams!, which was conceived to mark the resort’s 20th anniversary.

“We are currently reworking the fireworks and lighting effects to introduce more lights in the sky,” teases the show’s director Matthieu Robin.

Combining pyrotechnics with lasers, dancing fountains and projection mapping, the updated 21-minute bilingual show will introduce LED technology to the rooftops of Sleeping Beauty Castle, synchronised to twinkle to a nostalgic soundtrack that shoots for the second star to the right in the company of Peter Pan’s mischievous shadow, and characters from Beauty And The Beast, Ratatouille, Aladdin, The Hunchback Of Notre Dame, The Lion King, Brave, Tangled and The Princess And The Frog.

Many of these animated films are immortalised as surrealist kinetic sculptures in the ongoing Gardens Of Wonder installation as part of the 30th anniversary, which encircles Central Plaza in front of the castle.

BELOW

Undated concept art of the Disney Dreams night-time show at Disneyland Paris | PA Photo/Disney

The plaza’s four stages continue to host 30 dancing characters from the Dream… And Shine Brighter! daytime show, including Miguel from Coco, who energetically strums his guitar for a rousing rendition of Remember Me, and the crowd-pleasing Zootropolis double-act of rabbit Judy Hopps and fox Nick Wilde.

Nearby in Fantasyland, It’s A Small World has been closed for extensive refurbishment since November 2021.

The family-oriented boat ride featuring hundreds of audio-animatronic dolls in national costumes and an infectious theme song composed by brothers Richard M Sherman and Robert B Sherman will reopen this spring, during the Grand Finale, with technical upgrades and a sparkling frontage in pastel pink, purple and gold.

With Disneyland Hotel closed until next year for a royalthemed makeover befitting Disney princesses and princes of all ages, Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art Of Marvel remains a prime destination for weekend visits to the Marne-la-Vallée resort, and features exclusive artwork of characters in the Avengers: Power The Night show.

Hotel guests are granted exclusive access to the ground-floor Super Hero Station, where resplendently

costumed Marvel stable mates are available for oneon-one encounters throughout the day, pre-booked through the Disneyland Paris app.

Black Widow kindly humours my awkward attempt to mirror her fighting pose. I doubt Nick Fury will be calling upon my services any time soon.

How to plan your trip

Walt Disney Travel Company International (disneyholidays.co.uk/disneyland-paris/; 0800 169 0737) offers a two-night/three-day stay at Disney’s Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel, including return travel on Eurostar from London St Pancras to Disneyland Paris (Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy) via Lille, from £2,376 for two adults and two children (ages 3-9) sharing a Superior Room, including park tickets. Price based on April 25, 2023 departure date, subject to availability.

Words by Damon Smith, PA

ABOVE

A room at Disney’s Hotel New York - The Art of Marvel at Disneyland Paris | PA Photo/Disney/Sylvain Beche

Lone Pine Park, Ferndown Retirement Living at it’s very best... Reasons

A stunning and very leafy park on the outskirts of Ferndown in Dorset, close to popular seaside resorts such as Bournemouth

As its name suggests, Lone Pine Park occupies a lovely woodland spot, with mature, evergreen pine trees providing a stunning backdrop to the residential homes. It can trace its history back over 100 years’. and has now evolved to be an exclusive bungalow style senior living park on the south coast.

These days the park currently has just over 110 homes sited, and there is a choice of additional plots and show homes that are available immediately. In fact, there are three brand new stock homes in place for those who are keen to move straight onto the park, with prices starting from £275,000.

Of the five available plots, buyers can choose a new build model that they like from a range of manufacturers, and can have a say in the design of the home to suit their exact requirements to maximise the location of their new home on the plot.

The park boasts a wonderful 14.5 acre sylvan setting and once fully developed will have in the region of 175 homes, all carefully sited on bespoke plots nestled within landscaped gardens and providing a secure communal environment.

Seeing is Believing…

All you need to know...

LIVING COSTS

• Pitch Fees: From £256 pcm

• Council Tax Band A: Paid directly to the Council.

• LPG Gas: Own tank, metered via the park.

• Electricity: Own mains electricity metered via the park.

• Water & Sewerage: Costs divided between residents on the park.

HOMES FOR SALE

There are currently three brand new homes for sale and we also sell OFF PLAN.

You can design your very own new home to your exact requirements on your chosen plot to maximise it’s location.

We currently have about 5 new plots available, of which three of them already have new homes on them and they are:

• The first and second are top of the range 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom Lissett Echappe/Alaska models, that overlook Heathland with amazing uninterrupted views and a raised decking area - POA

The third is a lovely 2 bedroom Stately Albion Goodwood located in a Cul de Sac, on a South Facing plot, priced at £325,000

To arrange a viewing by appointment only, please contact: 01202 894438

LOCATION...

Reduced Living Costs

Friendly Community

Close To Local Amenities

Regular Local Bus Service

Outbuilding Included

Detached Bungalows

PARK RULES

The park is for residents over 55 years of age. Two small pets per home are allowed.

West Parley, Ferndown £1,350,000

Stunning chalet bungalow | Four years old | High specification kitchen/dining room | Separate utility | Five bedrooms | Large garden | Numerous outbuildings | Semi-rural location | Security & CCTV system | Electric entrance gates

Ferndown £975,000

Sought after location | Modern detached home | Open plan living space | Four bedrooms | Three bathrooms | Private & secluded rear garden | Detached double garage | Off road parking

Ferndown £799,950

Outdoor heated swimming pool | Detached family home | Large kitchen/breakfast room | Five double bedrooms | Three bathrooms (en-suite to master) | Westerly facing garden | Off road parking | Shed, summerhouse & workshop/garage

Verwood Offers over £617,500

Detached family home | Five double bedrooms | Three bathrooms (two en-suites) | Three reception rooms | South facing garden | Integral double garage | Superbly landscaped rear garden | Quiet cul-de-sac location

St Leonards OIEO £575,000

Superbly presented throughout | Modern kitchen/ breakfast room | Triple aspect conservatory | Four double bedrooms | Two bathrooms | In ‘n’ out driveway | Single garage | Private rear garden

Ferndown £315,000

Well-presented semi-detached bungalow | Private rear garden | Detached garage | Quiet location | Two bedrooms | One bathroom | One reception room | Off road parking

Lytchett Matravers £1,500,000

Remarkable detached home | Expansive grounds | Rural views| Balcony from master bedroom | Potential separate annexe Private rear courtyard | Rolling lawn | Views of countryside & woodlands

Broadstone OIRO £1,075,000

Exceptionally well presented | Five bedroom detached family | Stunning view of Poole harbour | Two balconies | Lower ground floor accommodation | Favoured school catchment | Quiet cul-de-sac location | Spacious lounge | Substantial southerly aspect private rear garden | Stunning kitchen/breakfast room

SIMILAR PROPERTIES REQUIRED

Throop, Bournemouth £3,999,950

Stunning location | Beautiful grounds | 8 Reception rooms | 6 Bedrooms between main residence and cottage | 3 Acres of private land

Bournemouth £975,000

Refurbishment potential STPP | Sought after location | Four reception rooms | Kitchen/breakfast room with separate utility | Seven bedrooms | Three bathrooms (two en-suites) | Secluded plot with off road parking

West Parley, Ferndown £725,000

Vacant possession | Potential AirBnb/holiday let | Seven bedrooms | Five bathrooms (three en-suites) | Triple garage | Annexe potential above garages | Ample off-road parking

SIMILAR PROPERTIES REQUIRED

Ferndown £629,950

Spacious, character property | Detached chalet bungalow | Kitchen with separate utility | Four double bedrooms | Three bathrooms (en-suite to master) | Study | Fully enclosed rear garden | Detached tandem garage | Off road parking | Convenient location

Sway, Lymington £380,000

Vacant possession | Stunning location | Off road parking | New Forest location | Close to village centre

Ferndown £275,000

Stunning views | Large two double bedrooms | Modernised throughout | Balcony overlooking golf course | Garage & off road parking | Cul-de-sac location | Modern fitted kitchen | Substantial well maintained grounds

NUMBER TWELVE SALTERNS REST HARBOUR VIEW NAUTILUS HARBOUR LOOKOUT

BOATHOUSE ROSE COTTAGE ECHO BEACH

SANDY FEET

HAVEN COURT

BROAD REACH

FERRY WALK

RED SAILS

MANSARD COURT

SANDACRES

TIDES VIEW

DEJA BLUE

WAVES

SUNDOWNER SANDARA

SHORE LODGE

THE UPSIDE DOWN HOUSE

SHERWOOD

OVGAR BEACH HAVEN

SEASIDE SIZZLE

HEMING WAYS VILLA

HOOK SANDS

BEACH WALK

HIDEAWAY

BAY HARBOUR VIEW RONA BEACH

SANDBANKS COURT SANTOY UTOPIA

BREAKERS HOLWELL

SUNSET

SANDHILLS PENINSULA COURT SANDCASTLES

SEAHAVEN

• 9 miles of golden sand

•

TIMBERCROFT

COMPASS POINT

SEAS THE DAY

PINES VIEW

• Chain ferry connecting the Purbecks

•

• Best dog-friendly beach in the UK

•

SUNSHINE BEACH THE VISTAS DENE CLIFF CHINE WALK

MAXWELL LODGE

HEPWORTH HOUSE

PINEWOOD

• Watersports - from sailing to kitesurfing to paddleboarding

•

Pro tips for tasty and healthy plantbased meals 8

Cookery writer Annie Rigg shares her advice for going plant-based.

Whether you’re looking to reduce your reliance on animal-derived food, cut down on saturated fats, decrease your carbon footprint, or all of the above –embracing plant-based cookery doesn’t mean you have to go 100% vegan if you don’t want to.

“It’s meant to be enjoyable – it’s not meant to be about taking stuff away,” says Annie Rigg, whose latest cookbook, Eat More Vegan, isn’t aimed solely at those who have given up meat and dairy products altogether.

“It’s written from the standpoint of someone who’s not vegan as well,” says Rigg, 52, who trained at the prestigious Leith’s Cookery School and worked as a chef for eight years before become a freelance food writer and stylist. “I’d like to think I’m not preaching about it. It’s like: here is a really great collection of recipes, that just actually happen to be vegan.”

Eat More Vegan by Annie Rigg is published by Pavilion Books, priced £16.99 |

PA Photo/Nassima Rothacker

The author of more than 20 recipe books lives in Hampshire with her husband Hugh, who was pleasantly surprised by how much he enjoyed sampling the many plant-focused dishes.

“My husband – who is very long-suffering – has also embraced eating more vegan food, because I do all the cooking,” Rigg says. “He was completely overwhelmed by the jackfruit bao buns. He said, ‘You would never know they weren’t pork’.”

Now, Rigg is full of fantastic advice for anyone starting out on their plant-based journey or looking to elevate their vegan cookery game. These are some of her top tips…

Think veg-first

If you’re used to the classic meat and two veg combo, Rigg recommends an all-inclusive approach that makes vegetables the main event.

“With vegan food, the way I approach it is everything is the hero, rather than having one thing on the plate that’s the hero and everything else is sort of a support act,” she says. “It’s all-inclusive cooking.”

Using a mixture of veg – for example, Rigg’s rice and lentils with tahini-roasted root veg features carrots, parsnips and beetroot – creates a colourful, satisfying meal.

Grains are great

“They’re cheap and nutritious, and there are a million different things you can do with them – you open up a whole world of joy,” Rigg says of grains, such as quinoa, freekeh and spelt, which add flavour and texture to dishes as well as making them nutritious and filling.

Take pearl barley, for example – found in her mushroom, celeriac and pearl barley stew. “It’s just so delicious, and nutty and earthy,” says Rigg. “You can chuck grains into soups, stews and pies.”

Spice up your life

Rigg says: “I think there are other cuisines that lend themselves naturally to vegan – there are a number of Indian or other Southeast Asian-based recipes in the book.” She recommends stocking up on a few fragrant spices, such as chaat masala (a powdered blend that includes cumin, coriander and fennel seeds), or making your own.

“It’s a really easy way to brighten up something quite simple, such as fried rice. Chuck on a seasoning blend and suddenly it’s not just rice and vegetables, it’s got flavour bombs all over it.”

Butternut squash nut roast PA Photo/Nassima Rothacker

Jackfruit bao buns PA Photo/Nassima Rothacker

Season generously

In addition to spices, herbs are a key component in flavourful vegan meals. “I put bay leaves in a lot of things,” says Rigg. “In the summer, I use quite a lot of basil and oregano, flat-leaf parsley and chives. Currently, we have pots of thyme, rosemary and sage outside, and they are regularly trimmed.”

Don’t rely on meat substitutes

While there are plenty of convincing vegan meat alternatives on the market, Rigg prefers the plantfocused approach, although she is a big fan of tofu.

“I think a lot of the people who aren’t vegan or vegetarian shy away from tofu, but if it’s cooked well and properly, it can be the most delicious thing,” she says. “Marinading it is often a good way. Frying it is always a good thing, because you’re then adding a texture to the outside of it – deep-fried tofu puffs are another option.”

Make your own mayo

Another brilliant use for tofu? Whip up tasty vegan mayonnaise and other salad dressings. “You just buy the silken tofu and blend it. It takes on the texture of mayonnaise and then you can add any other flavours to it,” Rigg explains.

“You can add garlic and lemon and herbs. There’s a Caesar salad dressing I did, which is whizzed up tofu and nutritional yeast – there’s no eggs or cheese.”

Try vegan cheese

While experimenting with vegan cheese, Rigg found the dairy-free alternatives have come on leaps and bounds in recent years. “I found vegan feta very good, and some vegan Parmesan is amazing,” she says. “The supermarkets are obviously doing it, but there are lots of people making small-batch vegan cheese, they’re really worth looking into.”

Enjoy it

Rigg’s advice for anyone who thinks they’ve failed if they happen to fancy a slice of toast smothered in butter, or a milky latte?

“Don’t beat yourself up,” she says. “If you start thinking about it as, ‘I’m depriving myself of something’, that’s when it will be a struggle. I don’t think it should be something that is about depriving. It should be about just opening up new doors for you.”

Words by Katie Wright, PA

Rice and lentils with tahini roasted root veg PA Photo/Nassima Rothacker

At Abode we have in house Land and Planning Consultants, who are willing to discuss the entire process involved from conception through to completion, whether your site is for a single build or better suited to a larger scale development.

Abode frequently work with both bigger, more established national companies and several smaller developers. Our Land Consultant is also able to value your land and ascertain its development potential in the first instance. Through this process Abode can make sure you receive the best return on your sites.

The majority of our developers hire and retain us to help them with their land search, which can be very advantageous to the seller as there would be no sales commission charged.

• Prestigious location

• Double plot

• Potential 16 apartments

• Unique opportunity

• Planning granted

• Call for more info

Two absolutely stunning Arts and Crafts inspired properties with four beds, five baths, four receptions, study, open plan kitchen with utility and butlers pantry positioned in a prime location ready to build and FOR SALE exclusively through ABODE.

T 01202 571571 E INFO@ABODESOUTHCOAST.COM 161 NEW ROAD, WEST PARLEY, FERNDOWN, DORSET BH22 8EB

Hot Radio, Live & Local broadcasts across BCP on 102.8fm and on DAB, Online, and on your Smart Speakers across Dorset.

H the station at the beating heart of the local community

Hot Radio Live and Local was designed to put the station at the beating heart of the local community

H g p the station at the beating heart of the local community

With Almost all radio stations now transmitting into the area with no local Covid taught us was the im l community

With Almost all radio stations now transmitting into the area with no local output, the one thing Covid taught us was the importance of the local community.

With Almost all radio stati t itti g into the area with no local g Covid taught us was the im l community

Hot Live and local provide the listener with up-to-date local traffic and travel, local news & information, competitions and music from the 90s to no

Ho provide the listener with up-to-date local traffic and travel, local news & information, competitions and music from the 90s to now

Hot Live and local provide the listener with up-to-date local traffic and travel, local news & information, competitions and music from the 90s to now

W th an volunteers on a nonprofit basis Covering Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole,

We offer support to the local community and have over 100 volunteers on a nonprofit basis Covering Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, and the rest of Dorset

W o th y a 0 volunteers on a nonprofit basis Covering Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole,

LIVE & LOCAL

LIVE & LOCAL

LIVE & LOCAL

Have a cheap date at these UK hotels

It is still possible to book a romantic getaway on a budget, says Sarah Marshall.

The drudgery of day-to-day living puts a dampener on most relationships, especially in today’s financial climate. But escaping familiar surroundings – even for a night – is a guaranteed way to revive romance.

If money is a frequent cause of arguments, stick to a budget and take advantage of special offers at various hotels, pubs with rooms and B&Bs. These idyllic but affordable properties prove love needn’t cost the earth.

LEFT Bradley Hare Hotel | PA

Photo/Bradley Hare

ABOVE Timbrell’s Yard | PA

Photo/Sawdays RIGHT Indulge in a country walk | PA Photo/Alamy

The Bradley Hare, Wiltshire

Live like an aristocrat for 24 hours with a stay at this pretty inn, located on the Duke of Somerset’s Estate. Split between the main house and a Coach House, there are 12 bedrooms decorated in an upscale heritage style under the guidance of former Soho House design director, James Thurstan Waterworth.

Fires crackle in communal areas, while the beautiful gardens are ideal for romantic strolls. Dine outdoors year-round, surrounded by fruit and vegetable patches, or opt for a meal in private dining room Skittle Alley.

HOW: Normally, mid-week rates start from £135 with breakfast. Visit thebradleyhare.co.uk.

Timbrell’s Yard, Bradford-on-Avon, Wiltshire

Originally built in the 18th century as a home for Mr Timbrell, owner of the neighbouring dye works, this is one of the few places to stay in idyllic market town Bradford-on-Avon. Now a traditional English inn, it’s filled with soft textiles, freestanding cast iron baths and cosy loft rooms.

Former River Cottage chef Tom Blake oversees a seasonal menu, which can be prepared with local ales. Snuggle up on a sun-soaked terrace or head for walks along river paths to admire views captured by Irish artist Samuel Spode in the early 19th century. Busier city Bath is only a few miles’ drive away.

HOW: Doubles from £85 per night with breakfast. Visit sawdays.co.uk/timbrellsyard.

Victoria House Hotel, Cumbria

Regarded as a king of romanticism in English literature, poet William Wordsworth was laid to rest in the village of Grasmere, part of the Lake District. His spirit lives on in the sleepy lanes, lakeside paths and cloud-shrouded hills, bringing out the poetic side of anyone who visits. After dark, clear skies free of light pollution are ideal for watching the stars, especially from Stargazer rooms at the Victorian House Hotel. Each comes with a star map and telescope for observing constellations through vast windows, perfectly framing mountain views during the day. Borrow kit from a Boot Room for exploring the fells and experience the same scenery that inspired Wordsworth more than 200 years ago.

HOW: Doubles from £114 per night with breakfast. Visit victorianhousehotel.co.uk.

The Summer House, Penzance

Despite the name, this atmospheric property is enjoyable throughout all the seasons. Wake up to the sound of waves washing the shore and spend days making the most of Cornwall’s seaside attractions. Walk along a coastal path to fishing port Mousehole, or watch a play at the outdoor Minack Theatre on a rocky outcrop thrusting into the water. Back at the hotel, request a tapas platter to eat in the walled courtyard of the pretty dining room.

HOW: Doubles from £95 per night with breakfast. Visit sawdays.co.uk/thesummerhouse

Castle Hotel, Shropshire

Close to the Welsh border in Bishop’s Castle is the world’s first and only Poetry Pharmacy. Promising a tonic for every love ailment and a recipe for enduring romance, the theatrical bookstore invites couples to browse shelves, recite verses or ask the resident Poetry Pharmacists to dispense an appropriate prescription. Close by, the 18th century Castle Hotel is a warren of secret nooks and crannies, with cushioned window seats looking out to the Shropshire Hills. Open fires and log burners will keep flames of passion burning, even on the coldest nights.

How: Rooms which are available from £130 per night, based on two sharing on a bed and breakfast basis. Visit thecastlehotelbishopscastle.co.uk.

Words by Sarah Marshall, PA

Preserving the legacy of successful business owners

Why do ethical business owners deserve to get paid well when selling a successful business?

There are untold reasons why successful business owners who want to sell ethically, deserve to get paid well.

Firstly, selling ethically means that you care about how well the new buyer is going to preserve your legacy. Meaning, you want to get paid well for selling your business, MOREOVER, you also want to ensure that your staff are looked after and the culture you have built over the years, along with your company name and location are maintained.

All too often, a trade buyer will do whatever it takes to maximise profitability from acquiring your business. This often includes “streamlining the business”, such as making redundancies, moving the offices to lower cost locations, increasing prices to customers and cutting corners on quality and service level to your customers.

Surely there is a better way?

If you want to find out more about how we can help you contact Robbie Mair, 07900 555217 or you can visit www.K-ZenGroup.com.

FLEXITARIAN; OR JUST A NORMAL DIET?

Flexitarian is a word which has only recently appeared in our day-to-day vocabulary but one which seems to be trending in the ever-developing world of people’s dietary needs…

But what does it really mean?

The Oxford dictionary definition is “A person who has a primarily vegetarian diet but occasionally eats meat and fish”. I don’t know about you but this to me appears to be describing what we would call a good old fashioned “balanced diet”, but we have somehow warranted the need to coin a title for it. Why so?

In a market where the extreme is becoming more popular, and restaurants are becoming more and more niche in their menus, it’s hard to keep up with what, how much and how far operators should be going to cater for all everyone’s requirements. It’s a veritable minefield of can and can’t eat, and the worry is that too little or too much might alienate or offend certain foodie types. Which of course no restauranteur wants to do.

I like the idea of this Flexitarian creature, a casual vegetarian who looks for the benefits of a sustainable yet well rounded diet where nothing it off limits but everything is viewed in moderation. It feels inclusive and surely a win win for all those involved?

Why not look to become inclusive all year round, and this Flexitarian ethos is what we’re going to focus on in 2022. Living life in balance sounds like a mantra that we could happily stick to.

Tel. 01202 068010

99 Commercial Rd, Poole, BH14 0JD www.zim-braai.co.uk

WHY RENT GUARANTEE IS IMPORTANT!

As a landlord you should be investing in a rent guarantee insurance. The benefit outweighs the costs and give you complete peace of mind.

At Move On, we strongly recommend this to all our landlords and if your agent cannot o er this to you, then perhaps the tenant hasn’t passed the necessary referencing?

• NO EXCESS

• RENT PAID ONCE TENANT IS ONE MONTH IN ARREARS

• RENT PAID UNTIL THE TENANT VACATES

• ALL COURT COSTS PAID

• ALL LEGAL COSTS FOR SOLICITOR PAID

As an agent, we do not have a crystal ball into the future. A tenant can pass all the necessary referencing, but their situation can change - we only have to look at Covid recently to know, life is unpredictable.

With the cost of living and energy bills going up, this can have an impact on your tenants outgoings.

Costs vary for the insurance, but typically they are between £300 and £400 per annum - a lot less than losing month’s rent!

Having worked in the lettings industry for 40 years, owned Move On for 17 years and have a personal portfolio of properties. I have probably gone through most challenges and the systems I have put in place preempt so many losses that a lot of landlords’ face. That is why Move On are known locally as the lettings experts.

Let me help you have a more stress free 2023 by managing your properties. Email me for an informal chat on sharon@moveon.biz Sharon

VIDEOGRAPHY & PHOTOGRAPHY

WE CAN OFFER

EVERYTHING FROM Videography to Photography

We offer the highest quality of video and photography production but with affordable prices, where quality and attention to detail are our priority.

Property tours | Promotional videos | Photography | Drone shots | Events | Adverts for social media | Short films | Weddings | And much more!

FERNDOWN £950,000

A superbly appointed four double bedroom, one bathroom, two shower room, three reception room detached family home.

HEARNES

www.hearnes.com 01202 890890

Properties of the month

SAN MIGUEL DE SALINAS

From €149,900

A complex of new build apartments; two bedrooms,, two bathrooms, two communal pool, gardens and a children’s play area.

VISTACASAS

www.vistacasas.com 0034 966 764 114

FERNDOWN £975,000

Modern detached four bedroom home with open plan living space, three bathrooms, rear garden, double garage and parking.

ST QUINTIN PROPERTY GROUP

www.stqpropertygroup.co.uk 01202 877123

TALBOT WOODS Guide price £795,000

A substantial four bedroom detached home with generous living accommodation and the opportunity for further updating.

HEARNES www.hearnes.com 01202 317317

TALBOT WOODS OIEO £1,000,000

A substantial detached home with three reception, heated swimming pool, double garage. Annexe potential.

HEARNES

www.hearnes.com 01202 317317

FERNDOWN £820,000

A beautifully finished and re-modelled four bedroom, one bathroom, one en-suite, two reception room detached family home.

HEARNES

www.hearnes.com 01202 890890

WEST PARLEY £725,000

Potential AirBnb/holiday let with seven bedrooms, triple garage, annexe potential above garages and ample off-road parking.

ST QUINTIN PROPERTY GROUP

www.stqpropertygroup.co.uk 01202 877123

BROADSTONE OIRO £1,075,000

Well presented five bedroom detached family with stunning view of Poole harbour, two balconies and private rear garden.

ST QUINTIN PROPERTY GROUP

www.stqpropertygroup.co.uk 01202 877123

FERNDOWN £1,170,000

A beautifully finished four double bedroom, two bathroom, two shower room, two reception room 1930’s detached home.

HEARNES

www.hearnes.com 01202 890890

WESTBOURNE £675,000

This bright and spacious four bedroom detached family home is set in a quiet location with a large garden and garage.

WINKWORTH WESTBOURNE

www.winkworth.co.uk 01202 767633

TALBOT WOODS £1,565,000

A spectacular detached character home boasting five bedrooms, open plan dining/ family room, balcony & west facing garden.

HEARNES

www.hearnes.com 01202 317317

WESTBOURNE £285,000

A well presented two bedroom ground floor apartment with a balcony, spacious lounge, garage and share of freehold.

WINKWORTH WESTBOURNE

www.winkworth.co.uk 01202 767633

QUEENS PARK £800,000

An impressive four double bedroom detached character house with three reception rooms and private garden.

HEARNES

www.hearnes.com 01202 317317

FERNDOWN £799,950

Detached five bedroom family home with outdoor heated swimming pool, parking, shed, summerhouse & workshop/garage.

ST QUINTIN PROPERTY GROUP

www.stqpropertygroup.co.uk 01202 877123

Interiors by Haroys is proud to introduce Doccia bathroom furniture to its collection

Interiors by Haroys will now o er a complete range of Doccia Group’s bathroom xtures and ttings, including shower trays, bathroom countertops, washbasins, wall panels, bathtubs and shower enclosures.

With its extensive product line, Doccia Group is able to meet the needs of a wide range of customers, from those looking for traditional, classic styles to those seeking the latest in modern design.

The partnership between Interiors by Haroys and Doccia Group is the result of a shared commitment to quality, design, and sustainability. Both companies have a long history of excellence in their respective fields, and are dedicated to providing their customers with products and services that are not only functional but also beautiful.

In addition to its commitment to quality and design, Doccia Group is also a leader in sustainable bathroom solutions. The company incorporates environmentally friendly materials and practices into its products and operations, ensuring that its customers can enjoy their new bathroom fixtures with a clear conscience.

One of their flagship products is their exclusive patented cabinets and shelves allowing you to organise inside your shower in the most discreet and elegant way. These cabinets are not openly durable and long-lasting, but come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit any bathroom. One of the benefits of owning a Doccia Group storage solution is that it is easy to clean and maintain.

CONTACT

01202 686236

sales@haroys.co.uk

WEBSITE www.interiorsbyharoys.co.uk

They are resistant to scratches, stains and fading, and are also very hygienic, as they are non-porous, which makes them resistant to mould, mildew, and bacteria growth.

With its extensive product line, Doccia Group is able to meet the needs of a wide range of customers, from those looking for traditional, classic styles to those seeking the latest in modern design. Whether you are building a new home or remodelling an existing bathroom, Doccia Group has the products and expertise you need to create a space that is both functional and beautiful.

Find out more. Book your showroom appointment today with Interiors by Haroys on 01202 686 236.

LOCATION

91 Poole Road, Westbourne, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH4 9BB

INTERIORS BY HAROYS | INTERIORS

PARTNERS IN DESIGN DORSET

DORSET’S PREMIER INTERIOR DESIGN, BUILD AND PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICE. Our highly skilled, creative and professional team of interior designers will work with you to create the home you have always wanted. Whether you want an extension, refurbishment, new kitchen or garden studio we will produce innovative practical designs to breathe new life into your property. Your designer will be with you throughout the transformation. Having agreed the brief we will produce 3D designs to excite and inspire you and project manage everything through to completion for you within agreed time frames and budgets.

Total Interior Solutions

Interior design and project management service

Design led extensions and refurbishments

Bespoke built-in and free-standing cabinetry

Design, build and install of kitchens and bathrooms

Lighting design

Hand made curtains, blinds and upholstery

Huge library of fabrics and wallpapers

Have a look at our website to see some examples of our work and what our clients say: www.partners-in-design.co.uk

Stallion Property Management are holiday let experts covering Bournemouth, Poole and surrounding areas. We take care of your holiday let and boost your rental income. Our pricing ranges from 18-24% for a fully managed service of your rental income depending on the circumstances of your property.

Embrace your dark side with Partners In Design!

An alternate trend to the neutral colour palette has been gathering momentum – to embrace the darker, bolder hues and create a warm interesting interior that makes you feel snuggled and cocooned.

statement wallpaper will lift the look, creating contrast and a sense of balance. Reflective surfaces such as mirrored surfaces work incredibly well – think antiqued glass tile panelled alcoves for example.

A useful tip for dark decorating is to paint the woodwork the same colour as the walls, along with the skirting. By painting the woodwork the same colour as the cabinets and walls, it recedes into the background to create a cohesive, sophisticated feel. This works especially well if you have a lot of cabinets or shelves as any contrasting woodwork could be visually jarring.

We all know nothing transforms a room faster than a few tins of paint and dark colours will deliver the most drama. There is an assumption that rooms decorated in dark colours can feel small and oppressive but when dark palettes are executed properly they are cosy, dramatic and full of life.

Rooms that are public, see a lot of foot traffic, or are designated for socialising— like a sitting room, or kid’s playroom—can handle more colour on the walls. Try using the soothing palettes, like luxurious cream or soft grey hues for the rooms where a restful ambience is important: the bedroom or bathroom, for example.

For the less bold – focus on your front door. The front door is a relatively small part of your house, so if you paint it and end up hating it, changing it back won’t be a big deal. Plus, colourful doors have been around for ages so experimenting with yours can be a restrained first step into bold shades.

Go on, make a statement with colour!

Successfully navigating the world of bright, vibrant and striking interior colours requires confidence. Take the plunge into something exciting, different and eyecatching. Partners in Design have a talented team experienced in using colour to highlight the beauty in a space, stockists of Little Greene paint we have an eco-friendly array of beautiful colours to work with.

The key to making dark colours work is by using luxe textures. Wool and velvet are good choices for upholstery and anything with a touch of sheen such as metallic fabrics or a

Photography credit: Little Greene Paint Company

ABOVE

FAR LEFT Briar Rose – Green Verditer, Ceiling: Mid Azure Green, Fireplace: Green Verditer, Window Frame: Whitening, Skirting: Mid Azure Green

LEFT Wall And Panelling: Mid Azure Green, Skirting: Royal Navy

Wallpaper: Broadwick Street – Mono, Ceiling & Woodwork: Jewel Beetle

Flooring trends to give your home the wow factor 5

From pattern and texture to pristine parquet, experts tell Sam Wylie-Harris the hottest styles to put you on the right foot.

If you’re laying the foundations for some first-class flooring, your options have never looked so good.

With so many styles to catch the eye, and new innovations in materials, design, special effects and finishes, there’s something to suit every taste – and budget.

Here’s what’s trending, according to the experts…

Colour, pattern and texture

“A key trend we’re seeing in 2023, is people looking to add pattern and texture to their flooring,” says Daniel Prendergast, owner of The Rug Seller.

“Favouring striking colours and designs, people are becoming a lot more experimental and not shying away from statement pieces.”

As such, he says round and unusual cuts of rugs are coming through in abundance – allowing people to be more expressive with their choices.

LEFT

Funk Triangles Multi Coloured Rug, from £489.99, (120x170cm), The Rug Seller | PA Photo/The Rug Seller

Paul Herbert, head of category for soft flooring at Carpetright, says: “Brights are back. Colour pop is all about experimenting with vibrant shades that will add an unexpected splash of colour to your home, making it stand out from the crowd.”

And there is no rulebook. “Opt for a design that makes you feel good and elevates your spirit,” suggests Herbert.

Organic warmth

“The organic warmth trend, using sustainable, recycled, and ethical materials, certainly applies to floor fashion,” says Prendergast.

Increasingly popular and considered environmentally friendly, these include plant-derived materials, such as bamboo or sisal, and sustainably-sourced jute.

“Handwoven and hardwearing, jute is a popular ecofriendly material and represents a movement towards organic warmth,” says Prendergast. “One of the great things about the trend for natural, more sustainable materials, is they can stand the test of time.”

ABOVE

Edmonton Twist Carpet, £31.99 m2, Carpetright | PA

Photo/Carpetright

Circles Jute and Cotton Flatweave Rug, £129, (120x170cm), The Rug Seller

| PA Photo/The Rug Seller

Plus, a neutral palette provides the perfect base for layering, with textures and materials that not only look great, but help create a relaxing interior, whatever your style, says Herbert. “Embrace this trend by choosing natural finishes, such as cork, wood, rattan and wool, which are warm and wonderfully tactile.”

Luxurious vinyl

Beyond the sought-after soft flooring options, Sam Way, hard flooring buyer at Carpetright, says vinyl is a great way to update your home without breaking the bank.

“There have been many developments in design and styles, meaning the effects that vinyl can create, such as tile or wood, are incredibly realistic,” enthuses Way. “With it being durable and soft underfoot, vinyl is a great choice for families.”

Luxury vinyl tiles are an elegant choice, as they emulate expensive design styles while being practical and durable. “They are not only low maintenance and water resistant, but also compatible with underfloor heating –if you’re looking to add a touch of luxury and warmth to your room,” says Way.

Nostalgia reinvented

Natalie Mudd, director at The Wood Flooring Co, says they’re seeing an increase in demand for handcrafted, textured planks that offer the ‘lived-in’ look.

“A subtle nod to the past, this trend reflects a desire to add character,” says Mudd. “Finished to look antique in appearance, the undulated surface texture of handcrafted boards can add a classic charm to any space.”

Seek out planks that present a distressed effect, with scrapes, cracks and other tactile markings – all adding to the floor’s appeal.

ABOVE

People and Planet Natural Classic White Cork Flooring, £51.99 m2, £113.55 per box, Carpetright | PA Photo/Carpetright

LEFT

Tegola Lite Plank 22220 Priory Oak Luxury Vinyl, £27.98 m2, £49.26 per box, Carpetright | PA Photo/Carpetright

Cellar Oak Wood Flooring, £66.14 per m2, £189.22 per pack, The Wood Flooring Co PA Photo/The Wood Flooring Co

“Parquet is as popular as ever, with many people opting for herringbone and chevron styles,” says Mudd.

“We’ve noticed more people are looking for ‘cleaner’ parquet planks. What we mean by this is a board with less knots and markings, in contrast to a rustic grade floor,” she continues. “A clean grade of oak, characterised by less nuances and colour variations.”

Great for making an interior appear brighter and for creating a seamless flow between spaces, Mudd says parquet is an extremely versatile option that will remain timeless for years to come.

ABOVE & RIGHT

Pristine parquet

Words by Sam Wylie-Harris, PA

Penzance Oak Parquet, £57.11 per m2, £49.46 per pack, The Wood Flooring Co | PA Photo/The Wood Flooring Co

MOTORING NEWS

Mark Slack tells us the latest news on all things motoring.

ACTOR, SIR MICHAEL CAINE’S FIRST CAR, HEADS TO AUCTION

Iconic British actor, Sir Michael Caine CBE’s, first ever car, a 1968 Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow Drophead Coupe with a fascinating history, is being offered for sale at auction this month at the Imperial War Museum, Duxford.

Having been treated to an extensive restoration by the current owner, Caine’s former car is now refinished in its original colour of Black. One of just 506 Silver Shadow Two-Door Drophead Coupes that were hand built by Rolls-Royce’s in-house coachbuilder Mulliner Park Ward from 1967 – 1971, the car is estimated at between £100,000 - £150,000.

year ownership by infamous Gasworks restauranteur, Jack Leach, the car’s history is truly captivating and one which I’m sure will delight and fascinate the new owner.”

“Appearing in more than 160 films across seven decades, Sir Michael Caine is a true British icon, so it’s a pleasure to be able to offer his very first car for sale, which in itself is another great British classic,” comments Damian Jones, Senior Motorcar Specialist, H&H Classics. “From its original purchase by Sir Michael, and its subsequent 43-

In 1968, Caine wandered into the renowned Jack Barclay showroom on Berkeley Square, with a handwritten shopping list which read, “milk, bread, newspaper, cigarettes, Rolls-Royce.” Unkempt and unshaven, Caine was ushered off the premises, so he journeyed to Mayfair’s other Rolls-Royce dealership, H.A. Fox on Dover Street, where he found the Silver Shadow which had been taken into stock after the playwright and screenwriter, Terence Rattigan, cancelled his order for it.

Having bought the car, despite not having his own driving licence, the actor found it was much cheaper to employ a chauffeur than pay the premium his insurers quoted should he decide to go down the ‘L-plate’ route. The 35-year-old actor subsequently

took great pleasure in being driven past the offending Jack Barclay salesman in his new car and flicking him a V-sign!

Less than two years later, the Silver Shadow was acquired by John Leonard Ernest Leach (Jack Leach), owner of the Gasworks restaurant in Fulham, which became a notorious hotspot for the rich and famous. A familiar sight on the Fulham and Kings roads for decades afterwards, Leach continued to own the car for the next 43-years until his death in 2013.

*Preliminary data. Figures shown are for comparability purposes; only compare fuel consumption, CO₂ and equivalent electric range figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedures. These figures may not reflect real life driving results, which will depend upon a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. Terms and conditions apply.

ROAD TEST: SKODA FABIA SE COMFORT –MORE PREMIUM THAN ITS PRICE SUGGESTS

Sometimes you find a car that while ostensibly a rather ordinary means of transport turns out to be something a bit special. Skoda’s Fabia has long been a feature of the Czech manufacturer’s sales lists and in its latest form drives much more premium than its price suggests and is full of clever touches typical of Skoda.

The Fabia range starts at £17,990 and offers decent standard equipment and some rather good power units. All bar one are 1.0-litre, 3-cylinder petrol units with power outputs of 80PS, 95PS and 110PS with the two higher power engine variants being turbocharged. Then there is a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol unit developing 150PS, again 3-cylinder.

Standard fare is decent on the entry level model and includes LED lights, Bluetooth, rear parking sensors, air conditioning, alloy wheels and a height adjustable driver’s seat. The previously mentioned clever little touches that set Skoda apart are such

things as an ice scraper inside the fuel filler flap, clip in rubbish bags for the door pockets and an umbrella.

My test model was the lead-in SE Comfort trim with the lower power turbocharged 1.0-litre engine that develops 95PS and drives through a manual 5-speed gearbox.

Inside there’s pretty much everything you need in terms of modern creature comforts, although the rear manual windows are a surprise. Even on cost grounds it’s somewhat of a disparity when looking at the list of other standard equipment included in the Fabia.

On the road the Fabia is aimed more at comfort than handling but nonetheless is still capable of being very competently hustled along more twisting roads. My test model is priced at £18,350 and it feels more premium than the price suggests. Performance is modest but the Fabia doesn’t feel in any way hindered in its progress. This is helped by the 5-speed manual gearbox having wellchosen ratios and a light and easy shift. Push the throttle hard and there’s a characteristic thrum from the 3-cylinder engine that’s far from unpleasant. All this means that despite the small engine capacity the Fabia feels comfortable and long-legged.

Looking at its competitors the Skoda stacks up very well. Although it lacks the zesty performance feel of something like an Ibiza, it’s not necessarily a bad thing in a car that has to complete a myriad of travel duties. The Fabia is a car that I would be very happy to have on my driveway.

ROAD TEST: LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SPORT - A MIX OF MODERN TECH AND OLD FASHIONED QUALITY

Since first emerging from the Rover car company in 1947, as a prototype with a central driving position, Land Rover has been synonymous with off-road prowess. In fact the last Defender still owed much to its immediate post-war cousin.

Of course today the talk is still all about Defender, but this time in its newest form. Which brings me neatly on to talk about a completely different Land Rover!

The Discovery Sport, although having a trendy, upmarket image, is in today’s terms reasonably affordable. Prices for the range start at £34,480, and if that seems somewhat less than cheap, well I have recently been driving a Toyota RAV4 that’s listed at £35,500.

The other thing that surprises with the Discovery Sport is a lead-in model with twowheel-drive. More SUVs come in two-wheeldrive than four nowadays but a two-wheeldrive Land Rover still comes as surprise.

My particular Discovery Sport was the aforementioned lead-in model with twowheel-drive, turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine and manual transmission. The easy way to tell a Sport from a standard Discovery is not only the size but the Sport doesn’t have that, to some, rather annoying offset rear number plate. The Sport coms with both petrol and diesel options along with Mild Hybrid Electric assistance and Plug-in Hybrid Electric assistance.

The lead-in Discovery Sport may come at a surprisingly affordable price but of course, by the time you’ve ticked some option boxes the price can climb quicker than a Land Rover up a mountain. It’s far from difficult to add well into four figures purely on optional extras..

That said the standard, although it is rather more than that, specification is pretty decent with heated front seats, auto lights and wipers, heated and powered door mirrors, auto dimming rear view mirrors, dual zone climate control, cruise control, front and rear parking aids, tyre pressure monitoring system and Android Auto and Apple Car Play. As one would expect there’s also a panoply of safety kit and a myriad of other standard features.

Reliability has to be mentioned as there’s much talk about the lack of it with Land Rovers. While I know people who have had issues, equally I know many that have experienced no issues whatsoever.

Despite my Discovery on having power to the front wheels it felt highly effective and confidence inspiring. Inside the Land Rover it’s a very nice place to be, a mix of modern tech and quality materials. Good power delivery, smooth gear changes and decent handling are the hallmarks of what is an impressive machine.

DIAMOND CUT ALLOY WHEEL REFURBISHMENT OFFER AT POOLE AUDI

Bring your vehicle back to life with our Diamond Cut Alloy Wheel Refurbishment Offer. For just £99 per wheel, we’ll remove scuffs and scratches, restore the appearance of your wheels, and improve the resale value of your vehicle. This special offer is available for all makes and models, and can be booked online at pooleaudi.co.uk/alloy or by calling 01202 983727.

So why wait? Take advantage of this opportunity to save money and give your vehicle the love it deserves.

Terms and conditions apply. Available for drop and leave appointments only. Not available with any other offer, and offer may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Not applicable for wheels damaged beyond the point of refurbishment, we will advise following a visual inspection of the wheel.

To find out more, visit pooleaudi.co.uk.

The very modern phenomenon of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) has been fuelling an increase in footfall at traditional used car dealerships, according to the boss of the UK’s largest independent retailer of nearly new cars and vans.

Mark Carpenter, CEO of Motorpoint, was responding to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders latest used car market data, which showed an 8.5% decline in 2022 vs 2021.

And he said the drop in sales volumes, caused by subdued consumer confidence and supply chain problems in the new car sector, was bringing about change in the buying habits of customers.

According to Carpenter, there had been a marked increase in showroom traffic as rising interest rates and the cost-of-living crisis led many car buyers to revert back to the comfort zone of more traditional, physical retail environment.

Customers, he said, are ‘treasure-hunting’ as they aim to make their money stretch as far as it can while seeking the reassurance that comes from browsing stock in person, touching and test driving the cars they’re interested in and dealing with a real sales person.

Carpenter said: “The last 12 months have been challenging for everyone in automotive retail and the used car sector is no different, but there are green shoots of recovery as we start to see new car supply filter through. Our average prices have come down by around 10-15% over the last quarter and the whole market feels like it’s returning to a state of normality. One very interesting outcome of the turmoil of the past 12 months has been the resurgence in showroom sales vs online sales.”

01202 775050 | www.pooleaudi.co.uk

Words by Mark Slack

MOTORPOINT CEO RESPONDS TO USED CAR MARKET REPORT

Bridalwear trends that will be huge this wedding season 5

Experts predict what fashionable brides will be wearing down the aisle.

With engagement season in full swing and wedding season on the way, bridal fashion is a hot topic right now, with thousands of brides-to-be saying yes to their dream dress as they prepare to tie the knot. Or they might be choosing a suit – tailoring is just one of the non-traditional bridalwear trends that style experts predict will be on the rise this year…

Bows

The perfect embellishment for walking down the aisle, expect to see oversized bows adorning the back of wedding gowns or ‘second look’ evening dresses. “For me, bows are very fun to play with. I’ve recently seen brides looking for less minimal and more elaborate designs,” says fashion designer Nadine Merabi (nadinemerabi. com). “Bows are a perfect addition to make a gown more feminine and playful, yet still glamorous.”

Nadine Merabi Emiliee White Dress, £365, available from Nadine Merabi | PA Photo/Handout

Shorter hems

“Whether they’re walking down the aisle or dancing the night away at the after party, the Little White Dress offers a playful yet timeless elegance which doesn’t falter when it comes to practicality and perfection,” says Heather McReynolds, vice president and general merchandise manager for bridal, dresses and accessories at David’s Bridal (davidsbridal.com).

“As our customers are looking to be more sustainable where they can, shorter dresses also offer a more versatile option which can be reworn over many years, tying sentiment into different events.”

From midi-length full skirts to vintage-style sheaths and flapper dresses, shorter lengths can still be glitzy and elegant. “I’ve seen a lot of girls getting married in mini dresses, putting a modern spin on a more vintage look,” says Merabi.

“Many brides are also opting for a second dress for the reception – the shorter hemline trend is perfect for dancing all night with friends and family.”

RIGHT Monsoon Krystyna Embroidered Short Dress Ivory, £375; Pearl Trim Bridal Cape, £75; Marabou Slingback Bridal Heels Ivory, £120, available from Monsoon | PA Photo/Handout

LEFT

David’s Bridal Satin V-Neck Tea Length A-line Dress, £235.42 (was £261.57), available from David’s Bridal | PA Photo/Handout

Classic drama

“We are seeing a return to more classic styles of bridalwear, such as cathedral length veils, full skirts and timeless silhouettes,” says couture bridalwear designer Phillipa Lepley (phillipalepley.com).

“With the rise in couples wanting outdoor ceremonies, there will also be more top layers and removal sleeves for functionality.”

While Nineties minimalism may be ruling the catwalks, Eighties maximalism is making waves in the bridalwear world.

“This is a trend we’ve seen waltz back time and time again, which we’ll gleefully welcome back every year,” says McReynolds.

“This for our brides who are set to make jaws drop and eyes well up as they strut the gloomy winter season away in their spring wedding.”

Phillipa Lepley Vienna Jasmine Ivy Couture Wedding Dress [price on application]

LEFT

Bridalwear designer Phillipa Lepley | PA Photo/Handout

BELOW

Fashion designer Nadine Merabi | PA Photo/Handout

RIGHT

David’s Bridal Appliqued Cap Sleeve Tulle Ball Gown Wedding Dress, £523.18 (was £609.56), available from David’s Bridal | PA

Photo/Handout

Colourful dresses

“Strictly white wedding dresses are not for everyone, and we have started to see brides swaying away from this tradition,” says Lepley.

“We will see a rise in brides selecting more colourful dresses, particularly elegant, soft shades of pink and coloured floral embroidery in soft tulle overlays that look equally stunning and sophisticated down the aisle.”

Going one step further, brides like Selling Sunset star Christine Quinn are making a case for the ultimate non-traditional bridal colour. “We’re seeing that black wedding dresses aren’t just for the alternative bride anymore, with this trend continuing to dominate on social media,” says McReynolds.

“Brides are experimenting with their wedding day looks more than ever before, with showstopping black dresses and vivid pops of colour.”

Suits

From Bianca Jagger’s iconic 1971 wedding suit to Emily Ratajkowski’s mustard two-piece, a tailored piece is the way to go for the bride who likes to do things differently.

“For me, a wedding suit means a celebration of the fact that every bride is different, and proof that a power suit can be as stunning as a wedding dress,” says Merabi.

She loves the “sophisticated coolness” and versatility of bridal tailoring: “It has also been amazing to see the many different styles that can come out of a suit.”

Words by Katie Wright, PA Fashion and Beauty Editor

BELOW

Nadine Merabi Charlotte White Blazer, £295; Charlotte White Bra Top, £120; Charlotte White Trouser, £190, available from Nadine Merabi | PA

Photo/Handout

YOU ARE INVITED

SUNDAY, 12ᵀᴴ MARCH 2023 12 NOON - 4PM

Come and see our truly unique stunning venue and venue styling specialists. Enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz or a bottle of lager. All weddings offer incredible food, unrivalled service and tailor-made packages to suit all budgets. Meet our friendly wedding planners and discuss your dream day.

Free entry, free goody bag, deals on the day!

Any enquiries please c or email sales@oc

In conjunction with Blissful Balloonz & Eventz, Tige

Quit talking, start doing!

A very belated happy New Year to you all. As always there is none of this ‘new year, new me’ malarkey from us – it’s new year same us… just even better!

We have a great new deal for any ladies out there considering starting with us the amazing Wassmuffin Mixed Martial Arts Academy have teamed up with the equally amazing FUC Clothing to bring you ladies a fantastic offer not to be missed.

You can buy any of the FUC leggings and a FUC T-shirt for £25 (this is a bargain as normally the clothing would be £55 on its own). Once purchased this enables you to book 12 sessions within 30 days. These sessions include all of the lady classes we run per week; Wednesday at 6pm, Friday at 5:30pm and Sunday at 10am.

It also includes access to Wednesday and Friday Mixed Thai Boxing classes at 9:30am and our Wednesday morning Bootcamp at 6:30am and Saturday at 12pm (which is an hour and a half class – both mixed).

At Wassmuffin we are lucky enough to be running three ladies classes a week which are incredibly popular with our members. Two are run by the incredible Isa who joined us six years ago to ‘become fitter’ but has since not only become part of our fight team but is also a knowledgeable and invaluable coach. Her classes are energetic and technical but also basic enough for beginners to join, even if you don’t have any previous experience in Thai boxing. Then we have Alex and Gemma teaching our bootcamp classes. Alex with a wealth of experience and Gemma, having joined us

six years ago mainly wanting to lose some baby weight, is now teaching for us. Both are invaluable members of our team.

You will have me, Lottie, for the Sunday ladies class and the two morning mixed classes. I have been teaching for over 10 years and love it. The classes are high energy fun with basics but also technical too, so a real mixed bag!

You will have 30 days to pick which classes suit your lifestyle. So that’s 28 sessions per month that we run for you to pick your 12 sessions from. We are flexible so you can be!

The feed back at Wassmuffin’s is always incredible and we have amazing members and clients who are supportive and fun. The main comment we hear is; “we are like one big family”, and one you will love being part of. Make the move today – you won’t regret it! And you’ll even have some new gym kit to start your sessions in. FUC is a 5 star clothing brand with a big story behind it. It’s a win win situation.

www.fucclothing.com

SERVE

Enjoy a and relaxing delicious environment, woodland West Parley welcoming beautiful nestled in selection of dishes in a

Gennaro Contaldo: If people learnt to cook they’d save so much money

The Italian chef chats to Lauren Taylor about cost-cutting recipes and how to never throw anything away again.

Gennaro Contaldo puts a bowl of penne in front of me. “Eat! Enjoy it!” he says. It’s 10am, but you don’t turn down pasta at a famed Italian chef’s house – no matter what time it is.

He made it from bits and pieces he found in his kitchen yesterday: Parmesan rind, carrot, a chunk of guanciale (cured meat), a jar of chickpeas, one shallot, celery, a single potato, some romaine lettuce – cooked down for 45 minutes with stock and served with a scoop of starchy pasta water and a glug of olive oil from the enormous vat sitting on his outdoor kitchen worktop. Very simple, very tasty.

The 74-year-old – known affectionately as Jamie Oliver’s ‘London dad’ (he taught him everything he knows about Italian cooking) says he throws “nothing” away, adding it doesn’t just annoy him when people waste food, “It really upsets me”.

And not only for environmental reasons. In a cost-of-living crisis, throwing any food away is literally money in the bin. Knowing what you can do with leftovers is the key to cutting your food bill, Contaldo believes.

“If [people] knew how to cook, they would save at least half – at least! I really, really press everyone to learn how to cook because once you’ve learned how to cook, you can go around and use whatever you find in the house.”

ABOVE

Classic, Italian cooking, at its very heart, is cost-effective. The basis of many of the most famous dishes is known as ‘cucina povera’ – literally translating to ‘poor kitchen’ or ‘poor cooking’ – “Because there was not much, whatever you had you cooked in many different ways and nothing used to be thrown away.” This is reflected in his latest cookbook, Gennaro’s Cucina, which focuses on hearty, money-saving meals.

For Contaldo, cucina povera is “proper Italian cooking: few ingredients, maximum flavour”. And in that vein, “It’s not ‘poor’, actually it means rich in a way”.

If you’re trying to save money in the current climate, Italian food makes perfect sense. Pasta is the ideal vessel for odds and ends languishing in your fridge. “If you go to a restaurant to buy fresh tomato pasta, it costs £11 or £12. From the market one bowl [of tomatoes] is £1 because they’re off the vine and they’re very good,” he says.

“People spend so much money on takeaway when you can actually do it yourself. Tomatoes, I can do in five minutes, I do a beautiful sauce. Cook them with a little bit of olive oil, a crush of garlic, a little bit of chilli, a little bit of water, boil the pasta at the same time, throw in the starch – if you’ve got some breadcrumbs, throw them on top.”

In the Contaldo household in Walthamstow, east London, where bunches of tomatoes hang from hooks around his kitchen/diner (“They become very sweet and last at least a month”), a meal will last several days. People chuck away leftovers far too soon, he says.

“If you do roast chicken, do you know how much stuff you have left? Remove a bit of meat, chop it up and do some kind of ravioli, boil it, then serve it with the same gravy as you had for roast chicken.

Gennaro’s Cucina: Hearty Money-Saving Meals From An Italian Kitchen by Gennaro Contaldo is published by Pavilion Books, priced £25. Photography by David Loftus. Available now | Pavillion Books/PA

“Then, when you think you can’t do anymore – get that chicken, celery, carrots, carcass, put it in water, boil it, you get lovely chicken stock.”

Beans, lentils, chickpeas and bread all play an important part in this way of cooking too. From passatelli in brodo (breadcrumb and Parmesan pasta) to acquasale (bread salad) and even padding out beef meatballs – or mondeghili – with stale bread to make the mixture stretch.

“And I hate expiry dates, just smell it, look at it – there’s nothing wrong with it except when it’s rotting. Even if you’ve got some milk left, when it goes sour you’ve got lovely ricotta.”

He won’t touch out of season fruit and veg flown thousands of miles to give us yearlong supermarket produce. “Cherries are everywhere at the moment – when I see them in a shop, I won’t even taste it,” he says.

Contaldo, who moved to the UK in his early 20s, grew up in the village of Minori on the Amalfi coast – “The sea was my swimming pool and the mountains were my back garden” – and fondly remembers artichoke season in January to mid-spring.

“Everybody uses them, we enjoyed making it in many different ways. And then when the season is finished… Something else comes to the market. We remember those beautiful days when we sat altogether [eating artichoke] but when it’s finished, we leave it, we forget about it, we wait for the next season – and look forward to it.”

Contaldo’s family’s business was selling linen, but food was intertwined with all aspects of life. “We had to go around up the hills and mountains to collect money, because not everyone paid you. Many times, instead of taking money, you take a live chicken, a goat, salami, cheese, fruit, in exchange,” he remembers, laughing.

Almost everyone kept chickens, pigs or cattle and sold their produce. “We were always talking about food: ‘What are you eating?’, ‘My mum cooked this’. ‘My mum is better than yours’.”

He learned to cook himself because, simply, everyone did. “Inside my house papa wanted to cook, grandfather wanted to cook, my grandma would cook, my mama would cook, my sister was taught by my grandma.

“There was no information, not many people wrote recipes down – I, myself, have a recipe book here,” he says, tapping his head.

“The Italians are very proud of whatever they’re making, they express themselves through food. You see them at the table, ‘Try this’, ‘Try that’, they love feeding you.”

Words by Lauren Taylor, PA

ABOVE Gennaro Contaldo in his outdoor kitchen | David Loftus/PA

ABOVE

A young Jamie Oliver and Gennero Contaldo | Edmond Terakopian/PA

David Loftus/PA

INGREDIENTS

1 x 1.4kg pumpkin (you need approx. 1kg prepped weight)

3–4 eggs plain flour, for dusting

Abundant vegetable oil, for deep-frying

2 balls of mozzarella cheese (each about 125g), drained and roughly chopped

75g grated Parmesan cheese

For the tomato sauce:

2tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes

6 basil leaves

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

BY GENNARO CONTALDO | FOOD & DRINK

Pumpkin parmigiana SERVES 4-6

1. First make the tomato sauce. Heat the olive in a saucepan, add the onion and fry over a medium heat for about five minutes, then add the tomatoes, basil leaves and some salt to taste. Leave to simmer over a gentle heat for about 25 minutes until thickened.

2. In the meantime, peel the pumpkin, cut it in half, then into quarters, remove the seeds and then cut into slices about five-millimetres thick. Lightly beat the eggs in a shallow dish with a little salt and pepper. Dust the pumpkin slices with flour, shaking off the excess, then dip into the beaten egg.

3. Heat plenty of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan until hot, then add the pumpkin slices (you may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your pan) and deepfry for a couple of minutes on each side. Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on kitchen paper to absorb the excess oil.

4. Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 180°C fan/200°C/gas mark 6. Line an ovenproof dish with a little of the tomato sauce, then place some pumpkin slices over the top, sprinkle with a little black pepper, dot around some mozzarella, sprinkle over some grated Parmesan and top with some more tomato sauce. Continue making layers like these until you have finished all the ingredients, ending with a final sprinkling of mozzarella and grated Parmesan.

5. Cover with foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for a further 15 minutes until the cheese has melted and has taken on a golden brown colour. Remove from the oven and leave to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Breadcrumb and Parmesan pasta

INGREDIENTS

100g stale breadcrumbs

100g grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra to serve

2 eggs

2 pinches of grated nutmeg

Zest of ½ lemon

Plain flour, for dusting

1L chicken stock

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

SERVES 4

1. Combine all the ingredients (except the flour for dusting and the chicken stock), including a little salt, in a bowl and mix well until you obtain a dough-like consistency. Form into a ball, wrap in clingfilm and leave to rest at room temperature for at least one hour.

2. Remove the clingfilm, then take about a quarter of the dough and press it through a potato ricer with large holes, cutting it off with a small sharp knife when it is about five to six centimetres in length. You may get varying lengths and that’s fine. Place them on a lightly floured board, taking care not to break them. Repeat with the rest of the dough, a quarter at a time.

3. In the meantime, bring the chicken stock to the boil in a large saucepan, then drop in all the passatelli and cook until they rise up to the surface. Remove from the heat and divide the mixture between four individual bowls. Serve with a little black pepper and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan.

David Loftus/PA

INGREDIENTS

400g dried split broad beans, soaked overnight in plenty of cold water

4 bay leaves

5 garlic cloves, lightly crushed & left whole 4tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling

600g dandelion or puntarelle (gross weight)

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Split broad bean mash with greens

SERVES 4-6

1. Drain and rinse the soaked broad beans. Place them in a saucepan, cover with plenty of fresh cold water, add the bay leaves and three garlic cloves, then bring to the boil and cook, partially covered, over a medium heat for about 45 minutes, until the beans are cooked through and tender.

2. Remove from the heat, discard the bay leaves and garlic, then blend the beans until smooth using a handheld stick blender. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Set aside.

3. Remove the leaves from the dandelion (and the heart if using puntarelle) and save the roots to make a salad. Take the leaves and blanch them in a pan of boiling water for a couple of minutes until tender. Drain well.

4. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, add the remaining two garlic cloves and sweat for a minute. Add the greens and stir-fry over a medium-to-high heat for two to three minutes, then season with salt and pepper.

5. Heat through the blended beans mixture, remove the whole garlic gloves and then serve with the greens, drizzled with a little olive oil.

David Loftus/PA

RECRUITMENT

The latest jobs in your area. To advertise your job here contact Ross or Gary on 01202 287165.

LETTINGS PROPERTY MANAGER

Winkworth Westbourne are looking to recruit an enthusiastic, well presented person who is not afraid of putting in hard work in return for reward and thrives on working in a busy team environment. Ideally, the suitable candidate will have some previous experience in this role or a similar customer service based position however full training will be given.

Winkworth have a dedicated training academy to ensure each and every member of the team are trained to the standard to ensure our customer service levels and knowledge of the industry are second to none.

With this office looking after the letting of over 500 properties and having been established for nearly 30 years, it provides the suitable candidate with huge job security, a fun and rewarding working environment and the possibility of flexible working arrangements.

To apply, please contact Ben Jesty or Fergus Naylor on 01202 767633 or email bjesty@ winkworth.co.uk

MORTGAGE & INSURANCE ADMINISTRATOR

Willowlace are hiring a Mortgage & Insurance Administrator, full or part time.

Superpowers must include:

• great organisational skills

• literate, numerate, accurate

• good understanding of insurance

• team player

• sense of humour

Send your CV, contact details and salary expectations to mortgages@willowlaceltd. co.uk

SUPERMAN may also apply!

What’s on IN MARCH

With a vibrant mix of countryside, beaches and attractions, there is always plenty to do in Dorset & Hampshire. Here is a selection of events happening across the counties over the coming weeks.

MOTHER’S DAY AT FARMER PALMERS

19 MARCH

They are offering half price tickets for all mum’s this Mother’s Day (Sunday 19th March 2023)!

They know that you want a quiet night to put your feet up, watch some rubbish TV or have a bath. Take some time to do YOU!

So, your little VIP’s can explore, play, and completely wear themselves out so you can enjoy the quiet night you’ve been longing for!

Plus there’ll be afternoon tea and cream tea’s, with the option of Prosecco in the Hen House Restaurant. You will even get a Mothers Day Goodie Bag filled some discounts and treats for you.

Booking tickets in advance is advised.

www.farmerpalmers.co.uk

ENERGY FOR LIFE: TROPICAL HOUSE

OPEN NOW

Fans of Marwell Zoo’s resident Linné’s twotoed sloth, Santos, will be thrilled to learn that the Energy For Life: Tropical House has reopened to guests!

As well as Santos, guests will be able to visit free flying birds, frogs, tortoises, a crocodile monitor lizard, insects and our impressive 70,000-litre aquarium with thousands of fish.

The split-level exhibit demonstrates the flow of energy through life and was built with energy efficiency and sustainability at its centre.

There are hundreds of plants to explore as guests follow the building’s winding path through the tropical exhibit.

100 YEARS OF NORMAN THELWELL

21 JANUARY - 07 MAY

The National Trust’s Mottisfont in Hampshire is celebrating the legacy of one of Britain’s best-loved cartoonists and illustrators, Norman Thelwell, with a major new exhibition in his centenary year. 100 Years of Norman Thelwell (21 January to 7 May) features over 150 works, including his trademark ponies and other illustrations full of comedy and sharp satire, alongside glorious watercolours of local landscapes and landmarks in southern Hampshire where Thelwell lived.

Illustrations from student days, sketchbooks, diaries and letters are displayed for the first time, alongside Thelwell’s paintbrushes, easel, and the desk he drew at for over 40 years. A rare surviving Thelwell pony rocking horse is one of several items of merchandise on show.

FARMER PALMERS

©Norman Thelwell

MUDDY DOG DASH

26 MARCH

Lewis-Manning’s Muddy Dog Dash is a 2km and 4km obstacle course around Upton Country Park for you, your dog(s) and loved ones to take part in and have the most fun day out. Not got a dog? No problem! You can join in with or without a dog and can take it at your own pace, whether that’s running, walking, skipping or jumping!

You can enter as a dog and person team or on your own. Adult participants must be aged 18 years or above on event day, and any children (aged 8 – 17 years old) must be accompanied by an adult who is also taking part. They recommend that dogs taking part in the event are older than 12 months.

The first 100 sign ups will get a Muddy Dog Dash t-shirt. Registration fees apply: human with furry friend £30 and just human £15

UPTON

www.lewis-manning.org.uk/muddy-dog-dash

Dates for your diary

DINOSAURS IN WEYMOUTH

12 FEBRUARY26 MARCH

WEYMOUTH

weareweymouth.co.uk/dinosaursare-back

BODY POETICS

NOUGHTS AND CROSSES

21 - 25 MARCH

A segregated society teeters on a volatile knife edge. Sephy is a Cross and Callum is a Nought. Between Noughts and Crosses there are racial and social divides. As violence breaks out, Sephy and Callum draw closer, but this is a romance that will lead them into terrible danger.

Told from the perspectives of two teenagers, Noughts & Crosses is a captivating love story set in a volatile, racially segregated society and explores the powerful themes of love, revolution and what it means to grow up in a divided world.

18 FEBRUARY - 06 MAY

GIANT www.giant.space

SWANAGE BLUES FESTIVAL

02 MARCH08 OCTOBER

SWANAGE www.swanage-blues.org

ABBA TRIBUTE

18 MARCH

KEY WEST BAR AND GRILL

www.keywestbournemouth.co.uk

MOTHER’S DAY AFTERNOON TEA CRUISE

19 MARCH

CITY CRUISES POOLE

www.cityexperiences.com

LIGHTHOUSE, POOLE’S CENTRE FOR THE ARTS www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

National Trust Images, Simon Newman

It is time to TAKE A BREAK

Pop the kettle on, put your feet up and take 10 minutes to engage your brain and solve these simple puzzles.

ACROSS CRYPTIC CLUES

1. Quote (4)

3. Manufacturer (8)

8. Row (4)

9. Tabulate (8)

11. Memorable date (3-6,3)

13. Talented (6)

14. Start (6)

17. Cinema (7,5)

20. Submissive (8)

21. Yield (4)

22. Feign sickness (8)

23. Genuine (4)

DOWN CRYPTIC CLUES

1. Waterfall (8)

2. Pedal (7)

4. Narrate (6)

5. Distracted (10)

6. Porcelain (5)

7. Beams (4)

10. Walker (10)

12. Airy (8)

15. Compress (7)

16. Fruit (6)

18. Perfect (5)

19. Ode (4)

LAST ISSUES SUDOKU SOLUTION

LAST ISSUES CRYPTIC SOLUTIONS ACROSS: 1 Ostentation; 9 Nonplus; 10 Outre; 11 Layer; 12 Languor; 13 Number; 15 Superb; 18 Triumph; 20 Cheat; 22 Outer; 23 Dresser; 24 Unknowingly | DOWN: 2 Sunny; 3 Enlarge; 4 Tussle; 5 Thorn; 6 Obtrude; 7 Inclination; 8 Retributory; 14 Moisten; 16 Unclean; 17 Shadow; 19 Moron; 21 Easel

Holiday lets made easy

Stallion Property Management are holiday let experts covering Bournemouth, Poole and surrounding areas. We take care of your holiday let and boost your rental income. Our pricing ranges from 18-24% for a fully managed service of your rental income depending on the circumstances of your property.

•

•

•

• Perfect pictures

•

• 24/7 Check-in

• Cleaning

• Guest support

Stallion Property Management - Just WOW! I can’t recommend this company enough, I want to shout it from the rooftops, these guys, Ross and Gary, are absolutely brilliant, professional, dynamic, excellent communication, honest, amazing taste, patient and understanding. TRACY,

SAME DAY WORKTOP REPLACEMENTS

Providing a new worktop replacement service, Portman Stone will remove and takeaway your old worktops and install your new stone worktops the same day. They will also organise all the plumbing, gas, electrics etc. or anything else that is required to give you peace of mind, making your new installation completely hassle free. With over 30 years of experience within the stone industry, every job is completed to the highest standard.

With the highest 5 star ratings on Google in Dorset, Portman Stone’s team ensure that every job is completed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction. The company provides a free quotation service for any customer. In addition, they offer a short 7-to-10 day turnaround time from templating to fitting, which is not matched by any other national supplier. Contact them today to discover more.

Discover The Sergio Sinks & Taps Range at Portman Stone