Viewpoint January 2023

Dear readers

This year brings great excitement to our family-run business as it reaches its 20th anniversary.

In 2003 I co-founded a publishing company in Dorset and a new community magazine. Dorset View, like Viewpoint, offers a great place for businesses to advertise as it is so popular with readers.

Viewpoint has been around much longer (nearly 50 years), with myself as editor since 1998. I purchased the publication in 2003.

On reflection I wonder how many family-run community magazines in the UK can lay claim to such longevity; the same editor for 20 years; or such a respected position in the marketplace.

Our paper issues and online magazines are part of the fabric of the local community and in this fast paced day of social media, which we have embraced, all corners of the community are covered. Publishing community magazines is what we know. It’s in our veins and we love the challenge.

Even so, we couldn’t possibly have reached this incredible 20-year landmark without our loyal team, loyal advertisers and loyal readers. So thank you all very much.

A New Year brings renewed hope and despite the deepening cost of living crisis we must remain optimistic.

Looking out for elderly relatives, neighbours and friends who may be in need of help is important. And for anyone struggling with their mental health, there is always help available. Our charity of the year, Dorset Mind, will be reaching out each month to let you know how much they can do. Don’t be afraid to ask.

Keep warm and safe and make use of your community hubs where you can drop in and get warmed up for free.

Janine Pulford

Editor

VIEWPOINT

Ben Pulford managing director ben@dorsetview.co.uk

Louis Pulford creative director DD 01202 233441

louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

NEWS DESK

01202 870270

Janine Pulford editor janine@dorsetview.co.uk

Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Karen Wyatt-Epapara deputy editor karen@dorsetview.co.uk

ADVERTISING

01202 816140

Mark Beechey account manager DD 01202 941465 mark@dorsetview.co.uk

Simon Thornton account manager DD 01202 941470 simon@dorsetview.co.uk

Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

DESIGN TEAM

Dexter Elliott Graphic designer designstudio@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

LOGISTICS

Mike Talbot

Picture of the month

Happy New Year from the team at Viewpoint (editor took the photo)

Ringwood youngsters have say on the future of the town

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Young people in Ringwood have had the chance to put forward their views on what they would like to see in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Arts and education charity SPUD organised a series of drop in workshops at the Carvers Clubhouse and Skatepark and at Ringwood School, which was attended by 30 young people.

The youngsters said they loved the green spaces including Bickerley Common, the Christmas lights and Carvers Skatepark, but they didn’t like the market – which they considered to be boring – and the poor links to other towns. They pointed out the town centre needed greenery.

They would like to see fitness equipment along the Castleman trail, a toddlers’ skatepark at Carvers and more green spaces in the centre of town.

The bus station was unsafe and unwelcoming and had the potential for some colour, artwork, planting and improved lighting.

An art trail to guide visitors into the heart of the town, and a landmark piece of sculpture as a gateway to the centre were other ideas put forward.

They also pointed out that there is nothing to attract young people into the town centre and better shops are needed. They felt most of the shops served an older audience. They said they found themselves travelling to Bournemouth or Southampton for shopping and ‘young people friendly’ cafes. However, they mentioned the high cost of public transport.

They feel the old cinema is an important building and they would love to see such a facility back in the town to include a café and soft play area.

The youngsters would also like somewhere they can hang out and relax, and opportunities to learn to cook. Improvements to the skate park were also highlighted. The Neighbourhood Plan website is www. ringwoodnp.org.uk

Volunteer Fair is back

The New Forest National Park Volunteer Fair is back, offering people the chance to make a difference, boost their health and wellbeing and try something new in 2023.

There are many opportunities available to volunteer in the New Forest. They’re all being showcased in the popular fair taking place on 29 January 2023, between 10.30am and 4pm at Brockenhurst Village Hall.

Many local groups will be offering hundreds of roles to suit all ages, interests and abilities. The event is free to enter and you can just turn up on the day, browse the stands and find out more about the opportunities on offer.

Over the years the annual fair has introduced thousands of volunteers to local organisations. In the 12 years it’s been running, it has welcomed almost 5,000 people from all walks of life through its doors.

Roles range from heritage conservation to working with rare species, plus practical tasks in beautiful natural surroundings.

Among the 40 organisations attending are Butterfly Conservation; Citizens Advice New Forest; Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service; Lymington Hospital Friends; New Forest Agricultural Show Society; New Forest Sailability, and Woodlander Coppice.

Fair organiser Jim Mitchell, from the New Forest National Park Authority, said: “We’re pleased to be able to host the fair this year where people can once again meet in person. It brings people together in a lovely atmosphere to talk about exciting things to do in the national park and surrounding area.”

“Different people have their own reasons for volunteering, and every volunteer has their own story to tell about what they have gained from volunteering and what they have given to the forest. Taking care of the New Forest National Park really is a team effort, and we couldn’t do it without the help of amazing volunteers. We’re looking forward to welcoming more to the friendly team in 2023.” www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/volunteerfair

Congratulations Pulford Publicity

he was promoted to managing director.

His brother Louis also studied graphic design and joined the company when he was a teenager. He is now a director and heads the design bureau.

Help ease pressure on ambulance service

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust is asking for continuing support from the public during the busy winter time. To ensure the service is used correctly, you can help by:

• Using your medicine cabinet for self-care for issues like grazed knees

The publishers of Dorset View, Viewpoint magazines and many other publications is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year.

Editor, director and co-founder of Pulford Publicity, Janine Pulford, said: “It seems impossible that it was 20 years ago that I was made redundant and took the plunge to invest what little money I had in setting up a publishing company in Ferndown with a business partner.”

Janine had no idea what a huge challenge she had set herself so it was a great relief when her eldest son Ben joined the firm. He trained as a graphic designer, but took an interest in business management. After some years and having achieved business qualifications

“All three of us have done everything from making the tea to delivering magazines, meeting dignitaries and negotiating at high-level meetings,” said Janine. “We have grown with the company and know it inside out.”

To add more family into the mix, Janine’s husband Nick became company secretary after he retired as a manager in 2012.

Working tirelessly to produce community magazines with accurate news and interesting items the Pulfords have gained respect for their professionalism and personal approach.

“We’ve survived two recessions and are now battling spiralling costs. This hasn’t worn us down, it’s given us the fighting spirit to carry on,” said Janine. “We’d be nothing without our team and our clients, as well as our readers, so here’s a big thank you to you all.”

• Visiting your pharmacy to ask for medical advice about minor illnesses

• Going to your GP for wider health concerns

• Contacting NHS 111 Online for urgent medical advice

• Visiting your local hospital’s Emergency Department in cases of serious illness and injury

• Calling 999 for life-threatening emergencies only

The public are also urged to take care in ice and snow; get free flu and Covid jabs; check essential kit for home and put together items to help you survive for three days without power, heat, water and access to shops. Check the weather forecast if you have to travel, charge your mobile phone, stock your vehicle with your essential winter kit, and tell someone where you’re going. Look out for vulnerable family, friends and neighbours.

www.dorsetview.co.uk

Competitions

PAIR OF TICKETS TO COPPÉLIA AT BOURNEMOUTH PAVILION

The Varna International Ballet and Orchestra is coming to the UK for the first time in their 75-year history with classical performances of Coppélia, Swan Lake and Giselle at Bournemouth Pavilion from 13 to 15 March. Renowned for its award-winning soloists and magnificent corps de ballet, the company has been delighting audiences for decades at home in Bulgaria and abroad.

Viewpoint has teamed up with promoter Raymond Gubbay to offer a pair of tickets to see Coppélia on Monday 13 March at 7.30pm. Every toy has a story,

especially in this charming comedy of errors, a witty combination of antics and abracadabra, set in a doll maker’s workshop. This light-hearted tale of mistaken identity and confused lovers is perfect for first-time ballet goers, families and everyone in between. For this exciting chance to go to the ballet answer the following question:

Which country does the Varna International Ballet and Orchestra come from?

FAMILY TICKET TO MARWELL ZOO

Get closer to nature on a family day out at Marwell Zoo in Hampshire. With plenty of outdoor space and a whole host of animals and activities, Marwell Zoo is a great family day out. There are hundreds of animals including giraffes, tigers, leopards, meerkats and penguins within the 140-acre park and five adventure play areas, cafés and a gift shop. Marwell Zoo’s advice is that you’ll need four hours if it’s your first visit. The zoo is easy to find. It is just eight miles from Winchester and the postcode is S021 1JH. Viewpoint has teamed up with Marwell Zoo to offer four tickets (2 Adults, 2 Children aged 3-16) for a family day out. For your chance to win this fabulous prize, answer the following question:

How far away from Winchester is Marwell Zoo?

How to enter

You can enter both competitions online at www.dorsetview. co.uk or send your answer(s) to the address on page three of this magazine. Closing date for both competitions is 6 February 2023. The first correct answer drawn in each competition will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd, Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre, Raymond Gubbay or Marwell Zoo are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winners. Winners will be announced in the magazine and their name and phone number will be passed to the venue or the promoters for the purposes of allocating the tickets.

Tickets for Giselle, Coppélia and Swan Lake are on sale at www. bhlivetickets.co.uk/events/ varna-international-ballet-23

For Marwell Zoo visit www. marwell.org.uk

Over 100 entries snowballed into the office before Christmas for Viewpoint’s Spot the Santa competition. Not everyone got the answer correct, but Charlotte Lock from Bournemouth was the first person drawn who had all nine Santas accounted for.

Charlotte and her husband Paul have their hands full with three young children: sixyear-old twins Mollie and Brody and nineyear-old Zanthie. The children were going to be given a share of the fabulous Lush prize worth £75 on Christmas Day so the presentation had to be kept secret.

“I enter competitions but don’t often win,” said Charlotte. “Lush is one of our favourite go to brands so to win this prize has really made my day.”

Soldiers in Bridge Street, Pedal Power

By Julain Hewitt, Fordingbridge Museum

Karl von Drais, a German baron, is credited with inventing the first bicycle in 1817.

It had two iron-shod wheels and was made of wood and the rider pushed it along with their feet. It was known as a Velocipede and became fashionable amongst Regency dandies. Pedals were added later but by then it had become known as the boneshaker because of the rough ride on the poor roads of the day. The poet John Keats derided it as the, “nothing of the day.”

The next development was made by James Stailey in the 1870s and was popularly called the penny-farthing. Most people will be familiar with the

very large front wheel and the small back one. It had a hollow metal frame, wire spokes on the wheel and solid rubber tyres.

The 1880s saw the development of bicycle clubs who would organise excursions into the countryside. The large front wheel meant that the penny farthing was fast, but it also could be dangerous. The rider was perched on a saddle that was about four feet above the ground and the pedals were on the front steering wheel. Hitting a stone or a pothole could cause a nasty crash.

In the 1880s Stailey’s nephew developed what became known as the safety bicycle. This had two wheels of the same size and a chain drive and more closely resembled the bikes of today. In the same decade John Dunlop invented the pneumatic tyre and improvements were made in brake design.

Cycling was not solely a male occupation. Women initially rode tricycles or quadracycles and even Queen Victoria owned a tricycle although there is no evidence she rode it. The safety bike had versions with no cross bar and with chain and spoke guards to accommodate ladies’ long skirts. Soon women cyclists began to wear more

practical bloomers. These were full trousers gathered at the ankle, worn with a calf length skirt and a fashionable jacket.

By the 1890s Britain was the leading nation in bicycle manufacturing. Companies like Raleigh, Rudge, and Triumph exported bikes to the British Empire and Europe. Costs came down and this enabled wider ownership. It also enabled the poor, who had previously walked everywhere, to travel further afield for work. I was talking to someone recently whose grandfather had travelled to work every day from their home in Breamore to Bournemouth by bike.

Many early photographs of Fordingbridge and the surrounding area feature bicycles. A photo of the High Street shows a massive pennyfarthing-type wheel used as a shop sign for Coundley and Sons Cycle works which was near the Hundred cut through. Sir Edward Hulse of Breamore House, the sixth baronet, was so proud of his bicycle that he went to a photographer’s studio to have a picture taken of him riding it. We have a picture on the stairs of Fordingbridge Museum of a troop of soldiers wearing wide brimmed hats and mounted on bikes, led by an officer on horseback. They are riding

down Bridge Street and I am not certain who they are. There is a record of two Australian soldiers cycling into Fordingbridge from their WW1 camp falling off their bikes and sustaining injuries in Bridge Street in 1918, so it may be the staircase picture is of Australians.

I have recently sold my bike, which for several years had been gathering cobwebs in the garage. Although I no longer cycle, I am pleased the see the resurgence of cycling as a means of getting to work, as a sport and for recreation. It is a non-polluting form of transport that keeps people fit. It also enables one to notice things that one might not see when whizzing by in a car.

Column by Fordingbridge Museum is sponsored by Adrian Dowding

Cycle display in the museum

Find a free warm welcome space

Over 3,000 registered organisations have opened or are opening up free, warm welcoming spaces for the public over this winter across the UK.

The Warm Welcome Campaign is the community response to the cost of living crisis. The spaces are being opened by churches and other faith groups, civil society organisations, businesses and local authorities.

There is an online map to help you find one near you at https:// www.warmwelcome.uk/.

Here are a few local ones:

• St Mary’s Church, Ferndown

RBL tree

A flowering cherry tree close to the War Memorial Gardens in Ringwood has died and The Royal British Legion Ringwood and District Branch has offered the town council £300 towards its replacement.

• Pinehurst Community Church, West Moors

• Fordingbridge Library

• Ringwood Library

• Wimborne Minster, Church House, High Street

• Canford Magna Parish Church

Opening times vary from place to place so check online first or call in and ask when you know they are open. Some offer food and warm drinks. Organisations can also register a warm space on the website. If you have a heart-warming story about a warm space send it to the editor: janine@ dorsetview.co.uk

The council is happy for the RBL to add a plaque reading ‘Royal British Legion Ringwood & District Branch 100th Anniversary 2022’ and has chosen a Sweetgum to be its replacement.

Verwood Rotary update

By Louisa Hiscock

The club was delighted to host a presentation evening at The Hub in Verwood in November. We handed out donations to 25 local organisations, charities and groups from the funds raised at the Rustic Fayre in August. The evening was hosted by Rotarian Vern Harris (Rustic Chair) and the presentations were made by President Clive Grove. It was wonderful to bring together so many community groups to celebrate not only the success of the Rustic Fayre but also all the amazing work so many do in our community – much of it voluntary and supporting a wide range of needs and age groups. All who received a donation spoke about what they did, the challenges they face and how the donation would support their work. Many are volunteers and give their time willingly because they care about those they are helping and want to do their bit to make a difference. This ranged from offering support and friendship groups for vulnerable, elderly and those with health conditions to running sports activities and clubs. Others worked hard to raise funds for their chosen charities or community events for all ages. All our club members were thrilled we could help to do our bit too and proud to hear so much was going on in Verwood. Look out for photographs from the evening on our noticeboard outside Verwood Post Office.

During December we were busy supporting Father Christmas on some of his visits locally prior to Christmas Day. We were delighted to be part of Verwood’s Christmas Extravaganza and organising the ‘Santa in a Van’ visits to some local schools. Our thanks to Forest FM for supporting us again with their van being turned into a great grotto.

Verwood Afternoon

Members of Verwood Afternoon TG had a fun afternoon at their recent Christmas party. Barry Manley and his wife Chris provided great entertainment with Barry on guitar and songs from them both. Members were up dancing and singing with the music, along with guests from the Dorset Federation committee. The next event is a January coffee morning. For information ring Judi on 01202 053264.

Janine

Pictured second from the left is Angela Daymond. Do let Janine know if you were there too. She would love to hear from you. When Viewpoint was first printed, as you will see, it was an A5 publication and early copies are held in Verwood Library.

Back in time with Viewpoint – pictured here are the volunteers who founded and worked on Viewpoint over 40 years ago. This photograph was taken at the magazine’s 25th anniversary celebration in 2002, which was held in the Furlong shopping centre in Ringwood.

Pulford has been the editor of Viewpoint since 1998 and took the photograph. There was entertainment and a competition to win a splendid cake. She helped organise the anniversary party with the then owner of the magazine, Airborne Printing, prior to her purchasing the publication.

Charity of the Year

For the duration of 2023 Dorset Mind will be this magazine’s charity of the year. With so much talk of mental health issues following the pandemic, and the sad loss of friends due to inner struggles, Viewpoint’s owners, Pulford Publicity, wanted to ensure anyone needing help knows about the valuable support available from Dorset Mind. The charity will be supplying a column every month. Here is their first one.

Introducing Dorset Mind

Did you know that 1 in 4 people will live with a diagnosable mental health condition in their lifetime?

This, combined with the cost of living crisis and the war in Europe, makes it even more important for mental wellbeing to be a priority for everyone today.

How Dorset Mind evolved Established in 1946, Dorset Mind was known as the ‘Bournemouth Association for Mental Health’ (BAMH).

Doris Odlum, a forward-thinking psychiatrist, founded the association for professionals to discuss mental health.

In 1971, BAMH opened their first service and in the 2000s, BAMH became part of the Mind Federation and known as Dorset Mind. The charity remains independent, which has enabled us to grow and support the needs of people in Dorset.

Our vision is to create a community where living and talking about mental health becomes acceptable for everyone.

What we do and how we do it: We connect minds by bringing together people to make change in their communities.

We change minds by challenging the stigma around mental health. We want to ‘Get Dorset Talking’ so that people can access appropriate support at their time of need.

We support minds by delivering life-changing 1-2-1 and group support for adults and young people that includes: active monitoring, befriending, counselling, education, support groups, wellbeing check-ins and training.

We also offer volunteer opportunities countywide, with many roles available across the charity. This can often be a stepping-stone to paid work.

How

can you support us?

Fundraising for Dorset Mind enables mental health support for local people in Dorset. Every donation helps protect the future of our charity, as we work hard to meet a rapidly increasing demand for high-quality services in challenging times. Find out more about our support, volunteer for us, or make a donation by visiting: dorsetmind.uk. If you’re in a crisis, call 999 or The Samaritans on 116 123. Alternately, call NHS Dorset’s Connection helpline on 0800 652 0190.

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and teens!

Dorset mum raises awareness of sepsis

When?

Either as an early treatment between the ages of 6-12 to make space for crowded teeth which need to come through, or from around 12, when the adult teeth are ready to be straightened.

Why choose Invisalign?

Invisalign is incredibly comfortable, virtually invisible, and unlike many more traditional braces, doesn’t have large bulky plastic coverage which can make speaking difficult. It’s easy to wear, easy to clean and kids love it. We can even put emojis on Invisalign to funk it up.

braces, but the bottom too. Not only that, but it also straightens the teeth at the same time – which other removable braces don’t. Win, win! Some patients need ‘growth modification’ to encourage the lower jaw to grow forwards and reduce large overjets. This is traditionally undertaken with bulky Twin Block braces but with Invisalign, it’s discreet and comfortable.

A sepsis survivor is supporting the charity Sepsis Research FEAT to help people understand the devastating impact of sepsis and how to learn the symptoms.  Becki Finean, a 35-yearold mum of three and a history teacher from North Dorset was in labour in hospital in April 2016 when she became seriously unwell. “Throughout the labour I kept repeatedly losing consciousness and was struggling to cope with contractions,” she said. She assumed she was having a difficult labour.

When Ben was born after 16 hours, Becki still felt poorly. Ben wouldn’t accept her milk. The midwives and nurses couldn’t explain why. After three days Becki discharged herself from hospital because she thought she would start to feel better at home. During her discharge

obs, staff established her heart rate, temperature and blood pressure were abnormal.

Becki was clearly very ill.

She was quickly visited by the sepsis lead ICU nurse from the hospital and admitted to intensive care.

Becki said: “I felt completely overwhelmed as I didn’t even know what sepsis was.”

Craig looked after Ben while Becki was treated in the ICU for a week. “They told me that strep A bacteria had entered my body via a cut on my finger and from there into my stitches after the birth. During labour my body had been struggling to fight off the infection. And the reason that my son wouldn’t accept my milk was because he could taste the infection,” said Becki.

When she was finally discharged home it wasn’t quite the end of the story. Becki continued to experience aftereffects of the illness.

Is it better than NHS plastic braces?

This depends, but in the younger age groups the answer is usually yes. It is brilliant at widening the arches and making space – not just on the top like traditional plastic removable

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She was eventually diagnosed with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) and PND (Post Natal Depression) and received counselling for 18 months.

Happily, Becki has made a good recovery and last year she and Craig welcomed their third child – a daughter, Ella - into the family.

Sepsis takes the lives of approximately five people every hour in the UK. It is an indiscriminate, deadly condition that can kill a previously healthy adult or child in a matter of hours.

The five key symptoms of sepsis are:

• Confusion

• Not passing as much urine as normal

• Very high or low temperature

• Uncontrolled shivering

• Cold or blotchy arms and legs

It can be hard to diagnose because, in its early stages, it can have similar symptoms to common winter conditions like

flu or chest infections. However, if key symptoms become noticeably worse, this could indicate sepsis and urgent medical attention should be sought.

Sepsis Research FEAT is urging people to look out for others and seek medical attention on their behalf as they could become confused.

If you have personal experience of the condition you can share your story online using #StopSepsisNow. https://sepsisresearch.org.uk

Becki, Craig and their three children

It’s time to make a RESOLUTION

By Janine Pulford

Although New Year Resolution Week has passed by, it’s not too late to make a resolution. January is the perfect time to reassess your lifestyle and health for 2023.

Have you ever wondered about how New Year resolutions came about?

It may surprise you to discover that they go back 4,000 years and began with the ancient Babylonians who

made promises to their gods to pay their debts and return borrowed objects. These were considered to be the first resolutions. If they kept their word, they believed their gods would reward them in the coming year. If not – well – the consequences were probably not worth thinking about.

The Romans too made resolutions. They worshipped a two-faced god named Janus

and made promises of good conduct for the coming year. They also named the month of January after this god.

When it came to early Christians, New Year’s Day became a time to reflect on past mistakes and make promises to do better. Nowadays, we keep to the tradition of making New Year’s resolutions but in a secular manner.

Naturally it is easier to make and break these modern resolutions compared to breaking those made to the gods who could, if displeased, ruin your harvest.

It is said about 35% of people keep their resolutions, 49% keep some, and 16% fail. Sometimes those who don’t achieve their goal feel disappointed in themselves, especially if they’ve broadcast their resolution on social media and then can’t stick to it.

To avoid disappointment,

don’t make promises that you can’t fulfil. It’s better to aim for a resolution you can achieve than something too ambitious. Our advertisers can help you out, so explore your options and see what is achievable before you make your resolution.

The most common New Year’s resolutions are based on self-improvement and living healthier.

Here are some tips to help you keep your New Year’s resolution

Don’t set your goal too high. Take control of your inner thoughts and break the cycle of letting critics beat you down.

occasional slip. It can take several weeks before a new activity becomes a habit and many months before it becomes part of your lifestyle.

Don’t give up.

people can support you or find a buddy to share the same resolution. You can motivate each other.

Practise positive thinking. Track your progress so you can keep a record of your accomplishments

Do the best you can each day and if something goes wrong, remember the lyrics ‘pick yourself up, dust yourself off and start all over again’.

There is a Japanese proverb that says, ‘fall seven times, stand up eight.’ Failure doesn’t define you, it’s the fact that you stood up again that makes you who you are.

plan. Don’t make a rash resolution as that could be harder to stick too.

Take one day at a time.

Reward yourself with a treat that doesn’t contradict your resolution, for example if you’re on a fitness programme reward yourself by going out for a walk by the sea with a friend, or buy a new piece of clothing to wear at your fitness class.

RESOLUTIONS

But with money being tighter than usual this year due the spiralling cost of living you could make a resolution to quit a bad habit like smoking, drinking (alcohol) or compulsive buying of lottery tickets and put the money you save aside for your new you. Quitting bad habits is ambitious and for some it will be a mountain to climb, so seek help and support with those resolutions, think positive and aim to succeed.

During this time of change and lifestyle improvement you may want to take the ‘New Year, New You’ slogan to its max. As well as assessing your personal lifestyle, you

could reappraise your job.

The Covid pandemic caused a great deal of upheaval in employment with many people losing their jobs and a large proportion being forced into new careers. Maybe you were one of them. You could have been fortunate to adapt to a different job, but if not, you are sure to be looking about for something that will match your specific skillset.

With around a million job vacancies to choose from in the UK, there is probably something available in every sector you can think of.

Whatever you choose as your resolution, aim to succeed and get help to do so if it’s available.

How many times have you plunged into a massive lifestyle change––gone cold turkey (no pun intended) to try and quit smoking, stopped drinking for Dry January or started a diet but ended up dropping out, disappointed with yourself when you’ve failed to meet the tough goals you set?

Trying to be healthier is important––but so is succeeding.

Lifestyle change doesn’t have to be huge and overwhelming. Sometimes the smallest changes add up to the biggest impact. So take it easy this January, ease your way into a healthier you with some simple and achievable bite-sized wellbeing boosts––welcome to Small Change.

Instead of getting too caught up on an end goal, or

a drastic change, try some smaller actions to help get you to where you want to be. And if you don’t have a big goal, you can still make some small, positive changes to improve your health and wellbeing.

Scan the QR code in the advert to get your Small Change calendar, stick it on the fridge and join LiveWell Dorset for 31 days of mini actions to boost your health and wellbeing. Why not encourage family and friends to take part too.

LiveWell Dorset offers free support, advice and 1-2-1 coaching for adults living in Dorset who are looking to make a lifestyle change like maintaining a healthy weight, moving more, quitting smoking or reducing drinking.

Call 0800 840 1628 or visit livewelldorset.co.uk.

Start the New Year as a volunteer!

If you want to do something fulfilling in 2023, why not consider volunteering with a community group?

Two Bridges is a care group that helps infirm, disabled and older people from the community to get to doctors, dentists and other medical appointments. The service covers Fordingbridge, Sandleheath, Alderholt and Godshill and has recently been extended to include Rockbourne and Martin. Destinations include Fordingbridge, Salisbury, Southampton, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Lymington.

More volunteer drivers are needed and the group would like to hear from anyone who would like to join the team.

Elizabeth is a client who has praised the work of Two Bridges saying the drivers she has met are kind and considerate. Because of her disability, she had to give up driving, and then rely on

taxis to attend her medical appointments. Two Bridges’ drivers were able to help.

Clients are asked for a voluntary anonymous donation for the transport provided, and drivers are paid fuel costs.

If you feel that you would find this work as a driver interesting, enjoyable and rewarding, contact Valerie Allpress, chair, on Valerie@Allpress.org or Derek Ayling on 01425 650770

Up to £50 off annual membership at Ferndown Fitness

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If you find the thought of going to a gym rather daunting but want to improve your fitness and lose weight in 2023 then Ferndown Fitness in Pennys Walk is the place for you. Friendly, helpful staff will guide you every step of the way. No posers or show-offs, just people who want to lose weight and improve their fitness in a relaxed environment. Ferndown Fitness have an amazing deal this January; you can get up to £50 off an annual membership plus two free consultations with their dietary advisor. So why not pop in or call 01202 855321 to book your free guest visit.

Elizabeth Reid with a volunteer driver

Charity founder organises vet clinic for Sri Lankan street dogs

An animal lover from Dorset is heading on a volunteer trip to Sri Lanka in a bid to improve the lives of street dogs in the poverty-stricken country.

Alena Warburton first visited Sri Lanka in 2019 on her honeymoon. She was left devastated by the plight of dogs living on the streets.

Since then the 36-yearold has self-funded two trips and set up a charity called Lucas Helps Dogs. It funds spay and neuter clinics, rabies vaccinations, emergency treatments and aims to educate locals in animal welfare.

Accountant Alena, said: “When I was first in Sri Lanka I saw a waiter brutally kick a heavily pregnant dog at a restaurant. At the time it really shocked me but I now know that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

“Every day dogs are born into a life of misery on the dangerous roads, where drivers

aim for them, disease is rife and food and water is scarce.

“While the charity pays for emergency treatment to help injured and disabled dogs, we really want to help the situation overall so are determined to spay and neuter as many street dogs as possible. Rabies is also prevalent over there, with children and dogs dying of the disease in recent months, so we ensure every dog we treat is given a rabies vaccination.”

Alena runs the charity with two friends and last year they carried out their first clinic in a place called Ella. They funded treatment of 50 animals and emergency treatment for a dog with an exposed bone in his paw.

Since returning home they have spent nearly every weekend fund-raising and continuing to support dog rescuers by paying for further treatments, rabies vaccinations, and helping rehome Sri Lankan

dogs abroad.

They had planned to carry out a clinic for 500 dogs when they visit Sri Lanka in January, but the economic crisis has sent costs soaring and means they will have enough for only half that number.

“It’s devastating after working so hard all year that we might not reach our target, and now we are desperately trying to raise as much money as we can. The cost of neutering and vaccinating one street dog is now around £25 but it is the

only way to reduce the number of dogs on the street and more being born into a life of misery.

“We completely fund transport, travel and all other costs ourselves and ensure all the money we raise goes to helping the dogs.

“We are doing our best to help as much as we can, and appreciate any support to continue our work changing the lives of Sri Lankan street dogs.”

Visit www.lucashelpsdogs. com for more information or to donate.

Animals’ Voice needs you

- advertisement featureDo you care about nature and wildlife and what legacy we will leave future generations?

Animals’ Voice has an urgent appeal to members of the public who in the coming year may have free time to support their work, either by becoming a dedicated trustee or volunteer, supporting a future project, setting up a wildlife and educational rescue centre at Animals’ Voice’s property in Fordingbridge. If you are compassionate about animals and feel you can lend your support, helping to protect wildlife by means of rescue and education, please get in touch. See the Animals’ Voice advertisement below for contact details.

Fantastic response for homeless appeal

Early in December, Ringwood School students had donated over 2,000 items of food, toiletries and clothing to support the Danny Cracknell Homeless at Christmas appeal.

With the help of the Salvation Army, every item will be distributed this winter to some of the most vulnerable members of the local community.

Ringwood Mayor, Gareth DeBoos along with representatives from the Salvation Army and the Danny Cracknell Appeal team joined Ringwood Sixth Form students to collect, sort and pack up the items ready for distribution on 7 December.

Leanne Symonds, headteacher

said: “We are delighted to once again support the Danny Cracknell Homeless at Christmas appeal. The school students and families donated over 2,500 items for the most vulnerable in our community in the 2022 appeal. I am proud of their response and the kindness they have shown towards strangers at this time of year. I extend particular thanks to our families who are themselves finding things more difficult than usual this year and yet have still helped others.” The appeal, which has been running for 30 years and was originally set up by Danny Cracknell who was mayor of Ringwood until his sad passing in 2010, aims to help those less

fortunate than others in the local community by providing them with food, toiletries and clothing over the winter period.

Dr Abernethy, head of Anning House at Ringwood School said: “The buzz in the room was amazing, it was so uplifting and inspiring to see the groups of students arrive from each tutor group with armfuls of donations for the Danny Cracknell Homeless at Christmas Appeal.

“Our Sixth Form students were brilliant at getting stuck in helping to count, sort and stack the donations ready to be loaded into the Salvation Army vans. Thank you to all students and families of Ringwood School for their support in this appeal.”

Victoria Hospital improvements

The radiology department at Wimborne’s Victoria Hospital is undergoing a major revamp thanks to £255,000 of charitable funding from the Friends of Victoria Hospital. The Dorset HealthCare-run site will be refurbishing two x-ray rooms to deliver improved imaging and increased capacity.

Work began on 3 January and will involve adjustments to radiology services at the hospital for around 13 weeks.

A temporary facility will continue to provide x-rays on site, though there may be a few exceptions.

Where appropriate, some patients may be booked in at Poole Hospital, or offered the option of appointments at Swanage Hospital. Ultrasound services will continue to be provided from Victoria Hospital during this time.

The project is due to be completed by 31 March.

Obituary – Norah Moore

By Marilyn Barber

Norah Moore, who lived in Wimborne, died at the end of last year at the grand old age of 102 years and six months.

Born on 22 May 1920 in Esher, Surrey, she was the daughter of Robert and Gertrude Denham.

Her mother, Gertrude, died when Norah was just 13 years old and she left school to look after the family home. Initially she was brought up by her father and then a stepmother. Norah subsequently trained as a florist before joining the war effort. She served in the ATS Auxiliary Corps for approximately four years, becoming an acting sergeant and was demobbed in 1946.

After the war she moved to Bournemouth, working as a florist in Westover Road where she met Ray. They married in Wimborne Methodist Church in 1948. Ray died in 2016 at the age of 93.

The couple made themselves part of Wimborne and part of the Methodist Church.

Norah used to organise the flower arrangers in church as well as showing off her training in flower arranging at festivals in both in the

Methodist Church and in the Minster.

She set up the Coffee Lounge not long after the new Methodist Church was built in 1967 and organised it for approximately 50 years.

Ray’s family business, Moore and Son Ltd, which produced tomatoes and cucumbers, was based at Walford Nursery which once occupied the site of the now Allenview Estate.

Norah supported Ray in his Rotary work and, being a member of the Inner Wheel Club, attended events and arranged dinners and gatherings at their house.

Norah stayed active in later life and was still swimming in her 90s and drove until she was 98.

Norah leaves her daughter Jacqui, two granddaughters Elspeth and Fenella and two greatgrandsons Toby and Austin.

Norah on her 100th birthday © Marilyn Barber

Curried Goat

Prep time: 25 mins | Cook time: 1 hour 45 Serves: 6 people

Ingredients

• 800g diced goat meat · 40g oil

• 170g sliced onion · 3-4 cloves garlic chopped

• 30g finely chopped fresh ginger

• 1 fresh green chilli sliced

• 30g medium curry powder

• ½tsp salt · 1tsp Garam Masala

• 1/8 tsp ground turmeric · 1/8 tsp ground All Spice

• 1tsp ground cardamom · 1tsp ground coriander

• 1tsp ground cumin · 8g fresh coriander chopped

• 1tsp fresh thyme chopped · 30g tomato puree

• 640ml water · 3 lamb stock cubes

• 1tsp dark muscovado sugar

• 400ml coconut milk· 20g coconut oil

• 400g tinned diced tomatoes

Method

1. Season the meat with a little of the salt.

2. Add oil to a heavy casserole pan and heat. Add sliced onions, and cook for approximately 4-5 minutes or until lightly caramelised.

3. Add garlic, ginger and chilli and continue to cook for two minutes.

4. Add the meat and fry for 2-3 minutes, then add the curry powder, salt and all other spices, followed by the fresh coriander and thyme.

5. Add the tomato puree, 480ml water, lamb stock cubes, sugar, coconut milk, coconut oil and diced tomatoes and stir well.

6. Bring to the boil, place a tight-fitting lid on top and cook in pre-heated oven at 180°C, gas mark

5, for 1hr 45mins to 2hrs. Check half way through cooking and add remainder of water. Serve with rice, naan or roti breads.

You can add or reduce chilli and curry powder as required.

This goat curry recipe from Dorset Goat Meat Company is perfect for a family get together, a special occasion or even just for a Friday night dinner. It serves six people and is so tasty you may not get rid of them afterwards, so beware!

Vecteezy.com

Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne

23 December

Review by Marilyn Barber (Full review at www.dorsetview.co.uk)

Wow! I have been reviewing pantos for more than 20 years, but this has to rank as one of the best I’ve seen.

Where to begin? From start to finish it was a bundle of laughter and fun, fast moving and innovative, Made to Measure Productions had a winner here.

In outrageous costumes, Courtney Jackson who appeared in Britain’s Got Talent as part of Dame Nation put so much energy into the role of Widow Twankey, tottering on vertiginous heels and endearing himself to the audience. This was his fourth appearance at the Tiv, and more will surely follow…

Christmas Spectacular Return of the Frost

Glad Rag Production Company

Regent Centre, Christchurch, Sunday 18 December

Review by Karen Wyatt-Epapara

‘Spectacular’ was certainly the word for this show, with colourful costuming, a simple but effective set and oodles of talent.

In true Christmas show style, the audience were encouraged to join in and boo for the baddy. There were plenty of laughs, especially when the cast made subtle digs at themselves and the show’s format. There were traditional pantomime skits too, which allowed the cast to show off their acrobatic prowess.

For full review mentioning the cast visit www.dorsetview.co.uk

Bedroom farce at the Tivoli

Wimborne Drama Productions are to stage Bedroom Farce by Alan Ayckbourn at the Tivoli Theatre in February.

Funny, gripping and acutely observed, the play lifts the lid on the secrets of marriage. Over the course of one hilarious night, an outrageously selfish couple parade their problems around the bedrooms of three other couples, exposing the cracks in other people’s marriages as well as their own.

Wimborne Drama Productions have chosen to revive the play which marked their first ever production at the then recently reopened Tivoli Theatre in 1994.

Bedroom Farce will be performed at the Tivoli Theatre from 23 to 25 February, with evening performances at 7.30pm (tickets £16) and a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm (tickets £14). Book via the Tivoli Box Office on 01202 885566 or online at www. tivoliwimborne.co.uk (booking fees may apply).

The details of the events below were accurate at the time of going to press. Always check before travelling. Send in details of your events to: newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

13, 14, 15, 20 and 21 January

Broadstone Pantomime Productions presents Freezing. Tickets from Hillier Wilson Estate Agents, 01202 693388 or www.ticketsource.co.uk/ broadstone-productions.

14 January 11- noon

Labour Women’s group at Greyfriars Community Centre, Ringwood. For further info contact womens-officer@ nfwlabour.org.uk

14 January 2.15pm

The Dorset Branch of the World Ship Society meets at the Centre, Ferndown, BH22 8XH for a talk on ‘Favourite ferry trips from the Golden Era in Scandinavia 19851999’. Email: info@shipsdorset. org or see www.shipsdorst.org.

16 January 7.30pm

Colehill Floral Arrangement Club, Colehill Village Hall, Cannon Hill Road. Meetings every 3rd Monday. Visitors welcome £5. Contact 01202 610902.

16 January 10.15am

Wimborne WI meets in St Catherine’s Church Hall to discuss resolutions and explain to new members what they are. For further information call Jill Haywood 01202 888194.

17 January 8pm

Charlie North Lewis, general manager of the Tivoli will take about the history of the theatre to Wimborne Civic Society at the Allendale Centre.

18 January 7am-9am

East Dorset Business Network at Dudsbury Golf Club, Hotel & Spa.

20 January 7.30pm

Original Music Awards

Dorset at Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Tickets from www. ticketsource.co.uk/booking/ select/RdiEJKhzXNnT

21 January 10am-4pm

Stencilled Printed Cow Parsley Cushion Cover Workshop at the Museum of East Dorset. https://museumofeastdorset. co.uk/project/stencilledprinted-cow-parsleycushion-cover-workshop/

21 January 10.15am

West Moors Horticultural Society coffee morning at the Memorial Hall. Details Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536.

21 January 7.30pm

Grange Choral Society present Elijah at Christchurch Priory. Tickets from https:// www.christchurchpriory. org/boxoffice/24677

24 January 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening Club meets at West Parley Memorial Hall with a talk by Stuart Pocock on roses. Contact Rod Darch 01202 896711, rod@rdconsulting.co.uk

27 January 2-4pm

Stepping Out tea dance at Broadstone War Memorial Hall to include those with memory loss and dementia. To book phone Lesley Shand on 01202 658833.

27-29 January

RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch. Take an hour to count the birds in your garden on one of these days. To take part visit www. rspb.org.uk/birdwatch or text BIRD to 70030 for your free guide and bird watching tips.

27-29 January

Highcliffe Charity Players present Cinderella at the Regent Centre, Christchurch. Tickets https://www.theregent.co.uk

28 January 3pm

Wimborne Town FC at home to Tavistock AFC.

28 and 29 January

East Dorset Indoor Bowls Club open days providing free coaching equipment with a bar available for refreshment at Two Rivers Meet, Christchurch. Details 01202 483317.

30 January 7.30pm

Fordingbridge and District Horticultural Society meeting at Avonway Community Centre, Fordingbridge.

4 February 10.30am

West Moors Horticultural Society road wardens coffee morning at the Memorial Hall. Details Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536

5 February 7-10pm

The Wessex Friends meets at The Cobham Flight Refuelling Sports & Social Club at Merley with a talk/display entitled ‘Under Cover Agent’ by Hazel Wilson. Details email derekabaker@hotmail.co.uk

8 February 7.30pm

East Dorset Antiquarian Society meet at St Catherine’s Church, Wimborne for a talk by Neil Meldrum on Ancient China. www. dorset-archaeology.org.uk

11 February 2.15pm

The Dorset Branch of the World Ship Society meets at the Centre, Ferndown, BH22 8XH for a talk on ‘Favourite ferry trips from the Golden Era in Scandinavia 19851999’. Email: info@shipsdorset. org or see www.shipsdorst.org.

Brr! Breakdowns or how to avoid them

The RAC sees a sharp increase in the volume of breakdowns when the weather turns cold, so it’s worth taking time to ensure you carry out checks on your car. Any underlying mechanical issues could escalate as temperatures plummet.

Here are some winter maintenance tips by the RAC to help avoid breaking down.

Use the acronym FORCES for your regular DIY checks. That’s Fuel, Oil, Rubber, Coolant, Electrics, Screen wash.

FUEL

Sounds obvious, but check you’ve got plenty of fuel in your tank for your journey as you don’t want to get stranded.

OIL

Check the oil level before you set off. RAC patrols check the oil level in every vehicle they attend and surprisingly they find one in three are dangerously low on oil. This can cause a breakdown or lead to catastrophic engine damage at worst. Your oil level should be between the minimum and maximum mark on your car’s dipstick. Top up if necessary. Knowing the location of your dipstick and how to check the oil is a vital skill. For instance, the car should be on a level surface and the engine should have been switched off for at least an hour.

RUBBER

Check your tyres and wiper blades before you set off. See opposite for TyreSafe safety checks. Wiper blades are not everlasting and need replacing when they are split or cracked. If they get frozen

to the windscreen you can damage the blade by activating them before the windscreen is defrosted. Also you can blow a fuse or break the motor by trying to operate blades frozen to the windscreen. Defrost the windscreen and make sure the blades will lift off the screen before switching them on. If you’re in a hurry use de-icer, or warm (never hot) water to free them.

Tip: cover the windscreen overnight with a blanket or old sheet to keep it ice and snow free.

COOLANT

Check your car’s coolant level when the engine is cold. Although it’s a sealed system and shouldn’t need to be topped up, you should double check, especially before a long journey. To find out more about this topic, which will require looking in your handbook for the correct coolant mix visit https://www.rac.co.uk/ drive/advice/winter-driving/ preparing-your-car-for-winter/

ELECTRICS

Check your car lights. Make sure they are working, free from dirt, grime and snow. Clean lights on a regular basis. Check battery terminals (under the bonnet) are clean and tight. If your car struggles to start and the engine ‘labours’ when you turn the key, get the battery checked by a garage. If it’s over four years old it may need replacing.

RAC patrols deal with over 400,000 battery related

www.rac.co.uk

faults every winter as the cold weather takes its toll on older, tired batteries and wet and icy conditions play havoc with the electrics.

SCREEN WASH

Check your screen wash level regularly and top up with a quality screen wash additive or pre-mix which is effective down to at least -15º C. RAC patrols are called out to motorists whose screen wash has completely frozen in the tank, so it’s vital that you remember to use a quality additive.

The RAC and other breakdown services will help if you get stuck, so look into membership. But your own DIY maintenance, or a service or mini service at a garage before you set off on a long journey, could reduce the chances of a breakdown and all the inconvenience it creates. Happy motoring.

Cars are wonderful when they work and our worst enemy when they let us down. Sometimes it’s not entirely their fault that they break down. It could be due to poor maintenance.

Start the New Year with a revolution and check your tyres all the way round

As the UK departs from a ‘frugal festive period’ in the midst of a cost-of-living crisis, the charity TyreSafe, which champions tyre safety all year round, is encouraging drivers, friends and family to share the importance of checking tyres and replacing them before they cause avoidable risks to road users.

There are over 40,000 tyrerelated incidents on Britain’s motorways and major roads every year, and each brings with it a risk to not only drivers and passengers but also those assisting stricken motorists.

The charity uses the simple ACT (air pressure, condition and tread) acronym to remind drivers to check the air pressure, condition and tread of each tyre.

Driving with air pressures below or above the recommended settings can severely compromise grip, which is particularly hazardous in icy and wet conditions.

Furthermore, tyres that are underinflated by just 6psi have a reduction in fuel efficiency of 3%. Not only that, underinflated tyres have a significantly reduced tyre life

as the tyre’s contact patch with the road surface is reduced to two smaller areas towards the outer edges of the tread.

The correct tyre pressure settings for your vehicle can be found in the owner’s handbook, in the door shut or fuel filler cap, and drivers should use an accurate gauge to check all four tyres. If drivers are loading up with more weight than usual they may need to adjust their tyre pressures accordingly to account for the additional weight.

Drivers can use a 20p piece to check their tread depth by inserting the coin at different points across the tread pattern and around the circumference. If any of the coin’s rim is visible, have a professional check the tyre.

Drivers feeling the pinch

may be tempted to opt for used or ‘part-worns’ as a more cost-effective solution in the event their tyres need replacing. However, of the 278 part worn retailers investigated by TyreSafe and Trading Standards, 93% of partworns being sold were illegal, with 63% of tyres inspected unsafe to return to the roads.

Purchasing part-worns may also prove a false economy. New tyres are normally sold with around 8mm of tread depth, whereas part worn tyres may have as little as 2mm of tread remaining meaning they will need replacing much sooner and are more susceptible to damage, depending on their condition.

The minimum legal tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but if your tyres are approaching

or below 2mm, is it worth considering a change ahead of wintry conditions, because the tyres’ tread not only clears water from the road but also provides some grip in ice and snow.

Finally, drivers are advised before setting off on any journey to perform a thorough visual inspection on all four tyres, looking out for cuts, lumps or bulges, which could indicate internal damage and should be checked by a tyre professional.

Stuart Lovatt, TyreSafe chair said: “Tyre safety is more than just a luxury, it is a necessity, and the absence of it could have tragic consequences.”

TyreSafe publishes educational materials and handy ‘how-to’ guides for drivers and is urging everyone to make tyre safety a priority, as a necessity over a luxury.

For a spectacular show of snowdrops in February visit St George’s Church in Damerham. Snowdrop Weekend is on 11 and 12 February when, as well as a stunning display of snowdrops in the churchyard, the church is open for tea and coffee plus other stalls. Toilet facilities are available.

St Ives House in Ringwood has been voted as Care South’s Care Home of the Year at the company’s annual Stars Awards ceremony. Now in its 13th year, the Stars Awards recognise and reward individuals and teams from across the company for their outstanding achievements and excellent care provision. Emma Cotton, home manager at St Ives House, was delighted and said: “We all love what we do and wouldn’t want to change it. Thank you to our fantastic team for helping make this happen.”

Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Simon Gibson, attended the Verwood Afternoon TG Christmas lunch. He is pictured with Guild chairman Denise Pugh.

Not only was Allenbourn Middle School’s production of A Night at the Musicals a sell-out, but they also had the support of Broadway stars. Before the curtain went up they heard from Amber Riley from Glee and Judith Franklin from The Tina Turner Musical on Broadway who wished them well. Seventy children from the Wimborne school took part in the production.

Furlong Centre to open Futon Company

The Furlong shopping centre in Ringwood is delighted to announce that it has another store opening for the New Year to add to its successful retail mix.

Futon Company specialises in stylish and affordable solutions for small space living, from multifunctional furniture to flexible storage and space-saving upholstery. Along with its contemporary sleepover ranges, the British interiors specialist continues to make its futon mattresses by hand in its London workshop. The Furlong is the latest addition to Futon Company’s network of more than 20 stores across the UK. Robert Pearce, founder of Futon Company, commented, “We’re very

excited to bring Futon Company to The Furlong, a much-loved shopping destination in the heart of Ringwood. This centuries-old market town has a celebrated history, and it could not be more fitting for us to open our new store here.

“Our home collections are all designed with small space living in mind – so expect to see furniture, storage and home accessories that are not only well-designed but smart and practical too. We look forward to seeing our customers come to our store and experience our products first-hand.”

Futon Company is due to open in January 2023. Check www. thefurlong.co.uk for latest updates.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Santa Stour Fun Run: more than 120 runners took part in the Wimborne Rotary’s fun run. They raised £1,300 for Julia’s House children’s hospice.

For plant people: the next meeting of Fordingbridge & District Horticultural Society will be on 30 January, 7.30pm, Avonway Community Centre, Fordingbridge.

Guided walks: every Tuesday at Avon Heath Country Park. Check in at the Visitor Centre, St Leonards BH24 2DH (off the A31) before 2pm. Tel: 01425 478082 10am to 4pm.

Treasurer needed: West Moors Memorial Hall needs a volunteer treasurer. Can you help? Contact: Ian 01202 870075 or 07884 187832 or Mary 01202 959976.

Carols and prizes: West Moors enjoyed Carols on the Petwyn on 2 December. There were stalls, fairground rides and a visit from Santa with money raised going to West Moors Youth Club.

Health MOT: over 100 residents attended the first free Health MOT at West Moors Memorial Hall in December. The following checks were carried out: blood pressure, blood glucose, BMI, pulse, risk of a heart attack and stroke, and risk of an osteoporosis fracture.

Losing toilet block: Fordingbridge Town Council has applied for planning permission from New Forest District Council to demolish the toilet block on Fordingbridge Recreation Ground, Ringwood Road.

Change of use: New Forest District Council has received an application from Avon Valley Archaeological Society to change part of the building previously used as a museum to a retail unit selling pet and livestock feeds and essential supplies.

New homes: Edgewater Homes has been successful in its application to New Forest District Council for the demolition of outbuildings on land off Selwyn, Fryern Court Road, Burgate and the building of two detached homes –subject to a legal agreement.

CORRESPONDENCE

Verwood Choral Society

After moving from Hayling Island in 2004, I decided to join the Verwood Choral Society (although I don’t claim to have anything other than an average voice!). I love music and singing, so this seemed a perfect fit and to my delight I was welcomed and accepted with no solo audition.

It is a mixed choir of ladies and gentlemen, which I like, as it adds depth to the music and means we sing in four parts and sometimes in six. I am still a member after all these years and I have to say that singing is both uplifting and the health benefits are well documented. It is also a lovely way to meet new people.

What we sing is varied with ‘popular’ music such as Abba & Andrew Lloyd-Webber and the musicals along with Christmas music and carols in the festive season. We perform two concerts each year, usually June and December, and all proceeds are donated to, mainly, local charities. The society has raised well over £20,000 for good causes since its inception in 1988 and we are delighted to have helped others while doing something we enjoy.

The musical director, Ann Mayo, has been leading the choir since the first day it was formed and gives us encouragement to sing beautiful music while we have fun too. We can usually be heard singing at the Verwood Christmas Extravaganza on Ferrett Green and several other local events.

I encourage anyone who would like to give it a try to just come along on a Monday evening from 7-8.30pm from February at St Michael’s Church in Verwood. Any information can be obtained from Carol our chairperson on 01202 814072 or e-mail casampson@tiscali.co.uk.

Jean Medlycot Verwood Choral Society

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Home improvements for 2023 – without breaking the bank

By Marilyn Barber

With the worrying rise in the cost of living, it could be so easy to put home improvements on hold, but this could be false economy leading to even bigger bills in the future.

So don’t put off those vital works – just look at the project in a different way – which could in the end prove to be ecologically sound.

For instance you could find new uses for tiles or bricks that have been accumulating in your garden.

You can shop around for fixtures and fittings, as bargains are always out there and you could get a better deal if you use local suppliers.

And always get at least three quotes for any work you’re outsourcing to trades.

Life can be a little flat after Christmas, so January is certainly the time to think about what you can do to improve your home, with the living room being the least inexpensive room in the house to remodel.

Decorating the walls is a good place to start, and you don’t have to paint

them all; you could just buy a small pot and paint one wall or alcove for a pop of colour. And how about updating that brown furniture by painting it white to give it a more contemporary look?

If you’ve had the same pictures in position for years, why not shop around to get replacements.

If you are looking to extend your property rather than to trade up, insurance brokers Lycett has a word of warning.

A spokesman said: “It is a common misconception that a contractor’s liability insurance would be sufficient if anything

went wrong, but this is not always the case.

“It is essential that buildings insurance is reviewed, and updated where required, to ensure cover is in place for such works. Homeowners need to consider who is covering the property during the works, who is arranging cover on the works themselves and any associated liabilities.

“They should also have adequate cover for potential problems that may arise if neighbours are impacted.”

The advice to those planning home improvements is to purchase a Contract Works insurance policy.

Bathroom experience

By Helena Howton

At the end of 2019 we decided to improve our home. The downstairs lavatory and separate bathroom, built in 1958, were out-dated and we wanted to combine them into one large shower room. My husband likes to do the DIY at home, but this involved demolishing a wall and we decided to pay for a bathroom designer. However, the prices quoted were more than

expected and because the plans had to go on hold due to Covid it gave us plenty of time to reassess our options.

Fast forward to September 2022. We ordered a shower unit, lavatory and sink from a supplier and employed a plumber thinking we would make a big saving.

However, nothing in an old property is straightforward and our project was no exception.

Day 1 Thursday 8 September

The plumber and his mate arrived at 8am. The water supply was cut off and work commenced in earnest.

By the end of the day, the Queen had died. The demise of our bathroom had also occurred and I’m in no way comparing this to the death of our Queen, who was a wonderful figurehead. Our ancient maroon sink and lavatory lay on the front lawn along with the old shower tray. The doors to the bathroom and lavatory had been removed, as had the tiles on the walls. Pipework was capped and everything seemed to be going well until after the pair left and we noticed a small leak in the bathroom.

Day 2 Friday 9 September

they advised needed to be cut off, capped and replaced with a new pipe. This seemed sensible as the pipework was so old. However when it was capped off we no longer had hot water in the kitchen. There was no quick fix so we were without hot water downstairs for the weekend.

How it all began

The plumbers traced the leak to an old iron pipe, which

On the plus side, the wall between the lavatory and bathroom had been demolished, a lintel was in place, and our new space was taking shape.

Lavatory removed

Day 3 Monday 12 September

Pipework was fitted around the bathroom and sealed into the walls and a new stopcock was put in place. Progress was good, but the day was over and there was no time to attend to the hot water pipe.

Day 4 Wednesday 14 September

The lavatory door was blocked off ready for the plasterers, who were coming the following week. This was great news, but it put pressure on the plumbers to prepare the room for them. It took the best part of the day

but when they’d finished it was time for the hot water to be reconnected. This involved fitting a new pipe to bypass the old one that was underneath our tiled kitchen floor. The new pipe was installed with a much more sensible route. Further excitement was that our shower tray, lavatory and sink unit had arrived.

Day 5 Wednesday 21 September

The remains of the supporting wall were boxed in and the bathroom was ready for the plasterer.

Day 6 Thursday 22 September

Two plasterers arrived and they worked nonstop until the bathroom looked much nearer to completion. We used a dehumidifier to help dry the plaster so my husband could paint the walls with a white breathable sealant (not sure how that works) before the plumbers returned to fit the wall panels and shower tray.

Bathroom experience

Day 7 Tuesday 27 September

A major problem reared its head. When the floor came up a gas pipe was discovered and it was too high for the new shower tray to be fitted. It was going to have to be rerouted outside.

Day 8 Thursday 29 September

The gas pipe was removed and rerouted. The shower tray was fitted and the floor levelled.

Day 9 Friday 30 September

The floor was re-levelled and left to dry, so no further work could progress.

Day 10 Monday 3 October

The first couple of wall panels were in place and looked fabulous but there was a bit of bad news. The shower we’d chosen couldn’t be fitted on them, not only that, there were not enough panels to finish the job because the supplier had underestimated the materials. We had to order another panel, which we hadn’t budgeted for. To summarise: the flooring could not be fitted until the shower was installed. The lavatory and wash hand basin could not be fitted until the flooring was in. It was problem solving time.

Day 11 Wednesday 5 October

My husband spent ages researching how to fit our shower unit on to our wall panel and eventually found the solution, which the plumber agreed was a reasonable option. The flooring was laid and the lavatory put in place.

Day

12 Thursday 6 October

The basin arrived. When fitted it looked splendid. The next big event was the lavatory being plumbed in and it looked and acted the part, which was a relief in more ways than one.

Day 13 Tuesday 11 October

When the shower pump was unboxed, the internal parts were missing and the unit had to be returned to the supplier. Meanwhile the plumbers fitted the heated towel rail and we were very pleased with the look.

Day 14 Monday 17 October

A delivery was expected so the shower could be finished, but this didn’t happen. This was unfortunate as the plumbers were going on holiday for a fortnight. Then one of them caught Covid so two weeks turned into three.

Basin and lavatory in situ

Bathroom experience

Day 15 Tuesday 8 November

The glass panel of the shower was fitted, as was the shower but the showerhead wouldn’t turn on. After contacting the manufacturer the plumber discovered that although he had connected the pipework logically, this was incorrect. He had no option but to order a new valve to rectify the problem. He said he would return to fit it as soon as it arrived. At the same time we discovered the supplier had sent gold fittings for the shower door instead of black. The black ones were out of stock and expected deliver was not until December. So we now had a shower that wasn’t working properly and didn’t have a door.

Day 16 Friday 11 November

The new valve was fitted and the shower worked. It was a joy to behold. There was no door, but the shower is so large, it wasn’t vital. My husband agreed to fit the door himself when the black hinges arrived in December as he was confident he could do the job. As I write, we are still waiting

for the hinges, but we can use the shower and compared to our last one, it is luxury.

The foibles of a 65-year-old property coupled with a few mistakes took us over budget. The final expenditure made the pre-Covid all-in quote seem like good value, but then there had been material price rises in between, which also increased the final figure. The job would have been completed more quickly if a bathroom designer had dealt with it, whereas ours had been spread over two months (luckily we have a shower and lavatory upstairs). Whichever way you choose to improve your home, you may hit unexpected problems, so it’s a good idea to keep some money in reserve. Our next project will be the kitchen. I’ll let you know how it goes. Meanwhile, I must nip off and luxuriate in our new walk-in shower.

It’s a blissful improvement to our home and only took us 40 years to achieve because I remember when we moved into our house saying, “The first thing we have to get rid of is that awful maroon toilet.”