The Bulletin | May 2024

Charity of the year

It has been a year...

It has been a year since we acquired the magazines and we hope you have enjoyed the transition, and the impact we have had on your local magazines.

We are always open to input and opinions which can be shared via the website.

When we acquired the magazines, as a local photographer I tasked myself with doing the covers for a year (bar the December Mudeford Mag) which has been an entertaining project. In the past having spent much time in Mudeford, Bournemouth and the New Forest with my camera this was a great refresher and time well spent with nature.

Taking in the surroundings of such beautiful settings is a must for anyone in the local area and there are plenty of places to walk and unwind.

is great for the sunrise, Mudeford has incredible sunsets across the harbour and the New Forest is second to none for general walking and peaceful natural space.

Competition for your chance to win tickets to see ‘Money For Nothing’

FRIDAY 19 JULY, REGENT CENTRE, CHRISTCHURCH 7.30PM

Europe’s #1 Dire Straits Show

Billed as a tribute to Dire Straits like no other before, ‘Money For Nothing’ faithfully recreate the distinctive sound of Dire Straits in this unforgettable sonic spectacular.

They will be performing ‘Money for Nothing’, ‘Romeo and Juliet’, ‘Sultans of Swing’, ‘Private Investigations’, ‘So Far Away’ and many more much-loved classics drawn from six platinum albums.

Audiences are treated to soaring guitar solos and instantly recognisable riffs by an incredibly talented band in a musical encounter you will never forget.

To enter the competition for your chance to win a pair of tickets to this show, simply find Sammy Seagull who is hiding somewhere inside this month’s magazine (excluding this page). Email the page number where he appears and your contact details to competition@themudefordmag.co.uk

Previous winners:

Closing date is 17 May 2024

The winner of the Merseybeat tickets was David Jessop who correctly stated page xviii as the answer. The Beach Boyz Tribute tickets were won by Clare Prescott.

Coffee Break Time

How to solve codeword

Every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number.

All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number.

To start you off we reveal the code for 3 letters.

Solutions on page XX

Break Time

sponosred by Louis P Creative

Coffe

CONFLICT

Conflict is a normal part of any relationship and needs to be resolved in a healthy way rather than being feared or ignored. Resolving conflicts in a constructive way will allow relationships to grow and strengthen. Mismanaging conflict on the other hand can have damaging, long lasting effects.

Conflicts arise because of personal differences in values, motivations, perceptions, ideas or desires. At the root of conflict is often an unfulfilled personal need such as:

• Need to feel secure/safe

• Need to feel valued/respected

• Need for closeness/intimacy

• Need for privacy

Some of these differences are due to the gender differences between men and women whilst others are due to our upbringing, life experiences, culture, values, and beliefs.

A conflict is a situation in which one or both parties perceive (this perception may not be an objective view of the facts) a threat to their wellbeing and survival. Conflict triggers strong emotions so, to resolve it in a constructive way, you must be able to recognise and control these emotions. In a conflict situation, the needs of both parties need to be respected and considered. Fear of conflict due to previous painful experiences from early childhood or unhealthy relationships will lead to either unhealthy avoidance of conflict or to entering a conflict situation already feeling threatened with heightened emotion resulting in unhealthy outcomes of either ‘blowing up’ or ‘shutting down’. So how can we manage conflict better?

• Enhance our emotional intelligence and learn to control your emotions and behaviour

• Really listen to the other persons point of view and empathise (‘step into their shoes’)

• Be ready to forgive – do not hold on to resentment and anger and sulk or seek to punish

• Seek compromise. There are four outcomes to any conflict win: win, win: lose, lose: win, lose: lose. win: win outcomes require compromise

• Embrace conflict and do not try and constantly avoid it

• Focus on the present conflict, not past resentments

• Know when to – ‘agree to disagree’

• Use humour if appropriate to lighten the mood but not at the other person’s expense

Know how to manage stress in order to be able to stay balanced and using our forebrains. ‘Stress makes us stupid’ and we are working from our basic reptilian brains and not engaging parts of our brain involved in logic, reasoning, and intelligence. When stressed we cannot read the body language of others, nor hear what they are really saying, we cannot be in touch with our own feelings or accurately communicate our own needs. We become irrational and blinkered and unable to compromise. We need to stop and remember to make allowances, communicate meaningfully, manage our emotions, and most of all BE KIND TO OURSELVES AND THOSE WE LOVE.

Dr Armorel Wood mBACP, accred NCS Private Professional Counsellor

Ingredients:

200g soft goat’s cheese

1 x packet fresh chives

150g Type OO pasta flour

Semolina

1 large egg

1 large yolk

5g olive oil.

Goat’s Cheese and Chive Ravioli

BY CHRISTIAN ØRNER | Private chef and chocolatier based in Poole | www.salt-co.co.uk

Method: FILLING

• Finely chop chives. Place in a bowl.

• Add goat’s cheese, (with clean hands) squash it all together to form a paste.

• Roll into balls about 3/4 the size of golf balls. Refrigerate.

FRESH EGG PASTA

• Add flour to a bowl.

• Mix together egg yolk, whole egg and olive oil using a fork.

• Pour egg mix onto the flour, using the fork mix it until it all comes together (you may not need all of the flour).

• When it comes together remove from bowl and knead for 1 minute, adding a little flour if sticking.

• Wrap in cling film, rest the dough for 30 minutes.

• After resting, set pasta machine to widest setting and pass dough through.

• Fold it over on itself and pass it through the widest setting again.

• Repeat this on the widest setting twice more. This creates layers in your pasta which will strengthen it.

• Make the pasta machine 1 notch thinner and pass the dough through again.

• After each passing through make the pasta machine one notch thinner and pass it through again. When you get to the thinnest setting, pass dough through and lay pasta flat on the worktop. Using the largest ring cutter, cut out as many rings as you can and lay them 2 x 2 along the work top.

• Place 1 x cheese ball on one row of pasta discs.

• Using a finger wipe a thin layer of water around the outside of the pasta discs.

• Put the disc from the other row on top of the goat’s cheese ball. Using a pinching motion squeeze the layers of pasta together to form a pasta ‘Jupiter’.

• Place on a tray with a dusting of semolina on it (this will stop the pasta from sticking).

• To cook; bring a pan of salted water to the boil, drop your pasta in and turn the heat down to about 3/4 heat.

• Cook pasta for 3 minutes, serve immediately.

The Bee Sting

by Paul Murray, paperback £9.99

(due 2 May)

The Barnes family are in trouble. Until recently they ran the biggest business in town, now they’re teetering on the brink of bankruptcy – and that’s just the start of their problems. Dickie and Imelda’s marriage is hanging by a thread; straight-A student Cass is careering off the rails; PJ is hopelessly in debt to the school bully. Meanwhile the ghosts of old mistakes are rising out of the past to meet them, but everyone’s too wrapped up in the present to see the danger looming. Shortlisted for both the Booker Prize and the Nero Book Awards, you won’t read a sadder, truer or funnier novel this year.

Book Reviews

The Observant Walker: Wild Food, Nature and Hidden Treasures on the Pathways of Britain

by John Wright,

paperback £12.99 John Wright has been leading forays around Britain for decades. As an expert forager, he shows people how to identify the edible species that abound - but he also reveals the natural history, stories and science behind our surroundings. Here, he takes us with him on eight walks: from verdant forests to wild coastlines, via city pavements, fields and rolling hills, he illuminates what can be found on a walk across any British terrain, and how you might observe and truly understand them for yourself. Warm, wise and endlessly informative, with helpful illustrations and suggested routes, this book will help you to see the world around you with new eyes: no walk will be the same again.

There’s Nothing Cuter Than A Puppy

by Tom Nicoll and Ross Collins, paperback £7.99

Donkeys in dungarees, walruses in woolly waistcoats, hyenas in hoop skirts…The Cutest Creature Contest is full of tough competition! But there can only be one winner, and there’s nothing cuter than a puppy! Or is there . . .? Author Tom Nicoll and award-winning illustrator Ross Collins promise glitz, glamour and goofiness galore in this hilarious picture book with special cameos from familiar faces first introduced to us in There’s Nothing Faster Than a Cheetah.

Why not pop into the shop to have a browse and see lots of lovely new publications for spring?

Or you can contact 01202 418403, email sales@bh6booksandhome.co.uk or visit social media @bh6booksandhome to place orders and discover all that is on offer at BH6 Books and Home, 69 Southbourne Grove, BH6 3QU.

Charity of the Year

Jeff Mostyn announced as a Patron of Lewis-Manning

Jeff Mostyn was a huge inspiration at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s recent charity event in Poole.

‘An Audience with… Jeff Mostyn’ was hosted by Warren Munson from Evolve at Parkstone Yacht Club.

Former AFC Bournemouth chairman, Jeff Mostyn entertained his audience as he took them on a wonderful journey of his life, from his humble northern roots, leaving school at just 15, facing adversity; his diverse working career successes; his enduring passion for football and of course his history with his beloved AFC Bournemouth and their fairy tale success.

Jeff’s appointment as a Patron of LewisManning was also announced at the popular event, with a packed audience which consisted of many AFC Bournemouth supporters but also loyal hospice supporters.

The conversation was compered by Warren Munson from Evolve who allowed Jeff Mostyn to share his stories with much passion, emotion and humour.

When asked, “What advice would you give to your younger self?” Jeff responded by saying, “Stand up for yourself, never let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve.”

And his definition of personal success? “Achieving your dreams and your goals within your limitations and not what other people expect of you.”

There was a flurry of questions at the end with Jeff in no rush to leave his captivated

audience who thanked him for his loyalty to AFC Bournemouth and his unwavering commitment to the club and its fans.

Clare Gallie said: “Wow, what a pleasure it was to have Jeff and his wife Rosie with us this evening. What a journey to hear about. We are so pleased to welcome Jeff on board as a Patron too, it’s a real honour to have his continued commitment to our charity.”

Warren said: “Jeff’s whole story and the candid and honest manner in which he shared it meant that he was such a huge inspiration to everyone in the room. I interview many people but this conversation was one of the most enjoyable ever.”

The Old Town Hall

By Julie Ratcliffe, Christchurch History Society

The Old Town Hall is one of Christchurch’s iconic landmarks. Unmistakable on High Street, the Grade II listed building, also known as the Mayor’s Parlour, has recently received some TLC courtesy of Christchurch Town Council. But were you aware of the building’s curious history?

Christchurch’s town halls were once timber framed buildings called Tolseys, consisting of a meeting room above an arched marketplace. In Georgian times, with wealthy people moving to the area and smuggling rife and lucrative, the town’s Burgesses wanted a new town hall. So, in 1746, the timber framed Tolsey, located opposite the George Inn, was demolished and a new brick and stonework town hall was opened.

By the Victorian era, it was thought too small, and its position a traffic hazard. The Burgesses wanted improvements, or a new one, but where would it go? How would it be paid for? A location was found at Blanchard’s Yard. MP, Admiral Walcott and family, provided £600 and subscriptions were donated by residents. The 1746 town hall was dismantled and much of the existing materials used to rebuild it. Additions included a balcony, balustrading on the roof and the arches enclosed, creating a reading room.

This new town hall opened in 1860. Over the following century it was expanded. A hall was built to provide an entertainment and events venue, a council chamber was built in 1934, office buildings were added. In 1955 a canopy was added for a bus shelter. In the 1960s, another town hall was planned on Wick Lane. The Square House, a classical Georgian house, was demolished to make way but instead shops, an arcade and post office were built. In 1976, the Town Hall received Grade II listing, so when plans for Saxon Square shopping centre were developed the building had to stay. In 1981, all buildings attached to the rear were demolished and the arches reinstated. The new Civic Offices opened on Bridge Street and the Town Hall was given the name Mayor’s Parlour.

Now used for meetings and events, the small room retains some of the wooden panelling from the demolished council chamber and, on the ceiling, is Adam plasterwork, saved from the Square House. The Old Town Hall is a recognisable jewel in Christchurch’s long and fascinating history.

www.historychristchurch.org.uk

Talks:

7 May – Life behind the Sideshows –Kay Castleman, Curiosity shows of the 50s and 60s.

4 June – Julie Ratcliffe, Life in Christchurch in the Georgian era

The 1746 Town Hall

The beauty of river cruising

One of the biggest differences between an ocean cruise and a river cruise is that the former takes you to countries, while the latter takes you through countries, making river cruising in many ways a more immersive experience.

For centuries people have travelled Europe’s rivers to trade and explore. These rivers are

steeped in history and culture, flowing through stunning scenery and beautiful towns and cities from the medieval to the modern.

From the Rhine, Danube and Portugal’s river Douro to the magnificent Mekong there is something for everyone.

There is no sea sickness or rough waters and the ship usually docks close to the city or town centre so there is no need for shuttles or tenders. You will have the convenience of unpacking only once and you can add on a pre- or postcruise stay. It’s such a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

The ships are smaller than ocean cruise liners and typically accommodate between 100 and 200 guests. Cabins are generally spacious and well designed. Cabins on higher decks benefit from ‘French Balconies’, full floor to ceiling sliding glass doors which give you the best possible views while cruising along the river. Many river cruise lines include wine, beer and soft drinks with meals and some even include excursions. Open dining in the restaurant on board allows passengers to sit with different people each night.

River cruising offers you a chance to enjoy breathtaking scenery as your floating hotel takes you on a fascinating journey visiting numerous iconic towns, cities and villages. You can enjoy your days as you wish. If you want a day full of all the sights then you can take the shore excursions or if you want to explore at your own leisure then this is exactly what you can do.

There are also no-fly options on selected European river cruises, you can travel by rail to join your cruise using Eurostar from London. On arrival at your final overseas train station you will be met by a private transfer to take you to the ship. You will need to ensure you can manage all your luggage throughout the journey as you may need to change platforms or even train stations.

Entertainment on board might range from local folk music to wine tastings and lectures.

Some ships have a pool and sun deck and some ships have a limited number of complimentary bicycles and helmets available to use when the ship is docked.

I have personal experience of river cruising, please contact me if you are interested in booking a river cruise or if you would like to discuss any future travel plans.

SALLY PULLEN TRAVEL COUNSELLOR

T 01202 375150

M 07929626156

E sally.pullen@travelcounsellors.com

W www.travelcounsellors.com/sally.pullen

CREATING BEAUTIFUL BORDERS

Flower borders can play an important part in framing your garden landscape, screening fences and neighbouring boundaries. Getting the planting balance right can be challenging and a detailed plan and plant list can help considerably.

Here are a few pointers to get you going:

• Understanding how big plants can get and allowing sufficient spacing between them.

• Select companion plants that look good together.

• Ensure it is the right plant in the right place to thrive.

• Create a balanced selection of plants to give you interest throughout the seasons.

• Add interest through colour, leaf shape and variety.

For a free plant list to suit your garden – contact Colin Knapman

T.01425 655038 M.07925166767

Check out website: www.ckgardendesign.co.uk

Lowestoft Lighthouse

by Keith Morton - Association of Lighthouse Keepers – alkhurst@gmail.com

Progressing around the Norfolk coast on our lighthouse tour of England and Wales, we soon arrive at the Lowestoft Lighthouse which overlooks Sparrow’s Nest Park and the Lowestoft and East Suffolk Maritime Museum. The lighthouse stands on the North Sea Coast at Ness Point which is the most easterly point of the UK.

The first lighthouses to be built at Lowestoft, the first lights ever to be built by Trinity House, were on the foreshore to warn shipping of dangerous sandbanks. The lights were lit by candles and by lining up the two lights, vessels could navigate the Stamford Channel and to the Yarmouth Roads anchorage.

The 1609 lights were rebuilt in 1628 and again in 1676 due to sea encroachment and the landward light was relocated to the cliffs to assist vessels much further out to sea. The new High Light was lit by a coal fired brasier. The remaining Low Light was discontinued in 1706 due to sea encroachment but, due to changes in the Stamford Channel it was re-established in 1730. This time the Low Light was a wooden tower so that it could be easily moved in response to changes in the channel. The Low Light was lit with three candles. In 1779, the Low Light was again rebuilt and was lit by an open-cupped oil lamp which burned sperm oil.

1777 saw the brazier in the High Light replaced by an innovative form of reflector known as a spangle light. 126 candle wicks fed from a common fuel supply were set in a circle around a central column on which 4,000 tiny mirrors were glued that provided a light reported to be visible at a range of 23 miles. 1796 saw more changes as Argand lamps with parabolic reflectors were introduced.

In 1882, the position of the Low Light was moved from the dunes to the beach. The Low Light was now constructed as a wooden tower on a brick foundation. It was painted white, and a wooden dwelling was constructed alongside for the keeper. The light was known as the ‘Beach Lighthouse’. Both lights were still lit with Argand lamps and reflectors – 11 in the High Light and three in the Low Light. The Low Light was again moved in 1866 and rebuilt with a wrought iron structure

designed by James Douglass and positioned on the point of the Lowestoft Ness since the Stamford Channel had moved. The new light, known as the ‘Lowestoftness Lighthouse’, and lit by a three-wick oil burner gave a range of 11 nautical miles. It was first lit on 15 January 1867 with a red light but with two white sectors to indicate safe passage in inshore waters. A clockwork-operated fog bell was introduced which sounded three times every 15 seconds. In 1881 the Low Light was again moved and showed an occulting light. Due to the encroaching sea, the light was moved inland in 1883. A reed foghorn that sounded a seven-second blast every 30 seconds was introduced in 1894. The sea continued to encroach, so the Low Light was moved further inland and was converted to coal gas.

The High Light was improved in 1825 and 1840 when a pair of houses were built alongside for the keepers. In 1870 a decision was made to electrify the High Light. However, the tower was not strong enough to carry the arc-lamp and equipment so it had to be rebuilt. Paraffin oil by now was an efficient and economical illuminant, so the High Light was fitted with a four-wick paraffin burner instead, together with a 1st Order dioptric optic. In 1901 the High Light was fitted with a Kitson oil vapour burner which increased the light output to some 241,000 candlepower. In later years, further improvements were made and now the High Light is monitored and controlled by the Trinity House Planning and Control Centre in Harwich.

What’s all the commotion about?

by Tom (CHOG)

Well, it could be that there is a Whitetailed Eagle in the area and the local gulls are not very happy with its presence. Recently one of the birds from the White-tailed Eagle reintroduction project on the Isle of Wight has been making regular appearances in Christchurch Harbour to hunt for fish near Stanpit.

This was the case the other weekend when I was at a Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group (CHOG) meeting. I was lucky enough to see an eagle sitting on Blackberry Point sandbar before it flew off, being escorted out of harbour air space by a chasing flock of gulls.

Local photographer and CHOG member Scott Usher said: “It was incredible!” when describing his recent encounter with an eagle that was hunting over the harbour. Scott managed to get some great action shots, which show the amazing 2-metre plus wingspan of the UK’s largest bird of prey.

Information from the Roy Dennis Wildlife Foundation has identified this eagle as G818 and she is from the 2021 Isle of Wight release. She is now in her fourth calendar-year, and could soon be finding a mate and territory to start breeding. Eagles usually start to breed when they are at least 4-5 years old; however, Forestry England have reported that last year a pair from the 2020 release raised a single chick from a nest on the south coast of England – the first time in 240 years that a chick has fledged in the wild in England.

calls from your local gulls or large flocks that appear to be alarmed, then check to see if there is an eagle present. A good place to watch is from the Pod Visitor Centre at Stanpit, where you can also take shelter from the weather and have a look at the interesting displays and information boards.

Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group, known as CHOG, is an independent organisation and registered charity, which is dedicated to recording, promoting and conserving the wildlife of the Christchurch Harbour area. To find out more about CHOG and how to join, please scan the QR Code or visit www.chog.org.uk for more eagle photos, the latest daily sightings and an interactive map of harbour locations.

When you are out and about in the area make sure you keep alert to any warning

White-tailed Eagle photographs by Scott Usher

Puzzle solutions

Diet and oral health

Most of us know that our diet is affecting our general health. We also know that sugary diet increases the risk of developing holes in our teeth. But the link between diet and oral diseases is much more complicated and may need to be looked at with a clear eye.

The concept of oral health correlated to the quality of life, stems from the definition of health that the World Health Organisation gave in 1946. Health is understood to be ‘a state of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity’.

Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining good oral health. The foods and drinks we consume can either promote healthy teeth and gums or contribute to dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel erosion. Here are some key points regarding diet and oral health:

Limit sugary foods and drink: sugary foods and drinks, especially those high in refined sugars and carbohydrates, can feed bacteria in the mouth, leading to the production of acids that erode tooth enamel and cause cavities.

Choose tooth-friendly snacks: nutritious snacks that are low in sugar and high in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and cheese can stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralise acids in the mouth and remineralise tooth enamel.

Drink plenty of water: water is essential for overall health and plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health. Drinking water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria, keeps the mouth hydrated, and promotes saliva production, which helps protect teeth against decay.

Eat calcium-rich foods: calcium is essential for strong teeth and bones. Add calcium-rich foods such as dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt), leafy green vegetables, almonds in your diet to support healthy tooth enamel.

Consume phosphorus-rich foods: phosphorus, along with calcium, helps strengthen tooth enamel and rebuild tooth structure.

Avoid sticky, acidic foods: sticky and acidic food, such as sweets, dried fruits, citrus fruits, and vinegar-based dressings can cling to teeth and promote enamel erosion. Limit consumption of these foods and rinse your mouth with water afterward to help minimise their effects on teeth. Moderate alcohol and coffee consumption: alcoholic beverages and coffee can contribute to dry mouth, which increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Consider the timing of meals: frequent snacking and sipping on sugary or acidic drinks throughout the day expose teeth to prolonged periods of acid attacks.

Maintain a balanced diet overall: following a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrientrich foods is essential for both oral and general health. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants supports healthy gums, strong teeth, and overall wellbeing.

By making mindful choices about your diet and practising good oral hygiene habits such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly, you can help protect your teeth and gums and maintain optimal oral health throughout your life.

Mrs Ella Aslani DDS Stockholm Principal Dentist – Copper Beech Clinic

RNLI Mudeford Fundraising Crew Newsletter

We are now well into our celebrations for the RNLI’s 200th anniversary, with our thanks to everyone who came to our evening with the Wareham Whalers and to the Commemorative Service at the Priory. There’s still plenty more to come, particularly our 3rd Blue Light Day, which is being held earlier this year on 26 May. And look out for Pirate Day in June on Avon Beach with prizes for best dressed pirate and mermaid. With the better weather approaching we look forward to re-opening our souvenir and book stalls on Mudeford Quay. Hopefully there is something of interest for everyone.

The RNLI 200 anniversary year is also proving busy for the Mudeford Lifeboat Station with the volunteer crew called out 13 times in eight weeks to assist windsurfers, foilers, and kitesurfers in difficulty, as well as capsized vessels and the search and recovery of people in the water.

Dates for the diary

RNLI 200th Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance

Three local RNLI fundraising branches have come together to host a gala dinner dance at the Queen’s Hotel in Bournemouth on Friday 10 May. The evening will include welcome drinks accompanied by Anna on her harp, a three-course meal, followed by dancing to the fabulous Swing Unlimited Big Band. Come and be entertained and find out a bit more about the RNLI with lots of laughs along the way. There will be some wonderful prizes and auction items. Early booking is advised. Access tickets by following this link https://www.eventbrite. co.uk/.../200th-anniversary-dinner or by contacting David Richmond-Coggan, chairman of Christchurch & Bournemouth Branch at d_richmond-coggan@rnli.org. uk to pay directly via BACS.

Join us

For more information on events or monthly meetings, or to join the Fundraising Crew, please contact Adele at adele.orr.63@gmail.com. Volunteers are always welcome.

Friday 10 May: 200th Anniversary Gala Dinner Dance, Queen’s Hotel Bournemouth

Thursday 16 May: Coffee Morning, Stanpit Village Hall

Sunday 26 May: Blue Light Day, Mudeford Quay Green

Saturday 15 June: Pirate Day, Avon Beach

Short Story

The Unexpected Callers

by Carol Waterkeyn

I recently moved into my new retirement flat in Blandford, following a very upsetting incident.

A few months ago, I’d woken up after hearing someone banging on the front door and the bell being rung. I looked at the clock-radio. 6am. I was puzzled. Who on earth would be calling at this time of the morning?

“Okay, I’m on my way,” I shouted, covering my pyjamas with my checked dressing gown and putting on warm slippers. With it being November, it was chilly. I wandered downstairs, trying to get my brain in gear.

I thought maybe it was one of the neighbours with a problem. Instead there was a man holding a crate on my doorstep and a supermarket delivery van on the drive.

“I have your delivery, Sir.”

“But I didn’t order anything.”

“This is The Grange?” he asked.

“Well, yes.”

“Someone must have ordered it for you. Where do you want it? In the kitchen?” He pushed past me.

I stood there trying to comprehend, when another, bigger man appeared out of the passenger side of the supermarket van. He had a large knife which he pointed at me while grabbing my arm behind my back. He was so close I could smell his garlicky breath.

“Right,” said the smaller, swarthy-looking man who had come in with the supposed groceries, “Let’s find your money, shall we? You must have plenty, living in this big house of yours.”

“But I don’t keep money here, only what’s in my wallet,” I stuttered. My arm was hurting and I didn’t like the look of these chaps.

“That’ll do for starters,” said the first man.

“Oh alright, I’ll get it,” I said, with a mixture of anger and fear. I guessed it was the adrenaline surging. I hadn’t felt like that for a long time and my fogged brain had cleared. “It’s in the bedroom.”

“Gary, go with ‘im, and keep an eye on ‘im,” said the bigger chap handing him the knife.

I walked up the stairs slowly, playing for time

and holding the rail, while breathing heavily. The man called Gary that now had the knife was behind me. My brain was working fast. What could I do but cooperate? But instead, I turned suddenly and kicked out with all my strength, sending him flying to the bottom of the staircase. As he landed, he gasped, and his eyes opened wide in shock as the knife penetrated his thigh.

I ran as quickly as I could into the bedroom, slammed the door and turned the key. I heard the smaller man shouting to his comrade for help. Meanwhile, I rustled about in the bedside drawer until I found what I needed. I moved aside my wallet and got out my father’s old service revolver and bullets. My hand shook as I loaded the chamber with two slugs, like he’d shown me when I was young. I sat on the bed to catch my breath and dialled 999 on my mobile, which thankfully was on top of the drawers.

“Police please …” I shouted that I needed help quickly and gave a hasty explanation.

“We’re sending someone straight away, Sir. Just hold tight.”

“You might need an ambulance as well,” I explained.

From downstairs I could hear a kerfuffle.

“You idiot. What have you done?”

“He took me by surprise, Mick. I don’t feel so good.”

I heard the big man run up the stairs and try to open the door. With a couple of quick kicks, he had it open, but then he saw me sitting with the gun pointed at him. He uttered something rude, turned and ran back down the stairs and out of the front door. I heard the van roar down the drive.

And then a weak voice: “Mick, you selfish git, don’t leave me here …”

Tentatively I clutched the gun and looked over the banister. The guy at the bottom didn’t look well. Blood was smearing on the carpet underneath him as he tried to drag himself towards the front door groaning. I walked carefully downstairs, and holding the gun, I edged past him noticing the knife was still stuck in his leg. He wasn’t in a

position to do anything, though. He looked like he might pass out. I grabbed my keys from the door lock, rushed out and with fingers trembling, locked it behind me and threw the gun into the holly hedge. I knew I wasn’t supposed to have it. My father had purloined it in the war, and there was no licence.

By now the man had got himself to the door because he was hammering on it.

“Let me out!” he yelled.

“I don’t think so.”

I was relieved to see the blue lights of a police car flashing in the distance and almost behind, an ambulance.

A male and female police officer jumped out of their squad car. I told them as quickly as I could about what had happened. They radioed for assistance.

“We’ll take it from here, Mr Barton. Is there a neighbour you could go to? We’ll come and get you when it is safe to do so,” said the female officer.

I went to Mrs Hughes’ a widow three doors down. After she made me a cup of tea with lots

of sugar for the shock, she told me about these flats she was moving to. The more she told me, the more it sounded a good idea for me as well. I suppose I was feeling vulnerable.

To cut a long story short, the police caught up with the stolen van, arrested both men and it went to court. They were both sentenced to two years for my burglary, plus several others they’d done in the Dorset area. They had stolen the van from Bournemouth a few days earlier. I denied having the gun of course. I made sure I got rid of it.

I sold The Grange and moved two weeks ago. Yesterday, I spoke to one of my new neighbours at the flats, Dorothy. I really like her. She invited me in for coffee. While she was making it, I looked around her lounge at the photos of her family on the shelves. I suddenly recognised somebody and nearly had a heart attack.

“Who’s this?” I enquired shakily.

“My nephew, Mick. He’s, er, working away at the moment. I’ll introduce you when he’s back.”

My blood ran cold.

LIVE ON STAGE

AN EVENING WITH MANTOVANI

Wed 1 May: 19:30

Join us for a Charitable fundraising evening of fantastic Mantovani Music on the big screen, introduced by percussionist and Mantovani expert Paul Barrett who brought the famous Mantovani orchestra back to the concert hall in Dorset.

THIS IS MERSEYBEAT

Thu 2 May: 19:30

This vibrant and exciting show features the Cavern Club’s resident Merseybeat combo, The Shakers and their authentic ‘Maximum Merseybeat’ sound.

THE SERIAL KILLER NEXT DOOR

Fri 3 May: 19:30

One of the UK’s most notable Psychological Therapists and Crime commentators Emma Kenny discusses what creates a serial killer.

THE STORY OF SOUL

Sat 4 May: 19:30

Join the Love Train, as we give you the Best of Our Love and show you there Ain’t Nobody who does it better. Powerful performances from our talented cast will showcase the biggest hits spanning a generation.

PSYCHIC SALLY

Wed 8 May: 19:30

Sally has been wowing theatre audiences around the world for over 12 years. Her show will have you on the edge of your seat, as she continues to bring mediumship into the 21st century.

SINATRA: RAW

Wed 15 May: 19:30

Sinatra: RAW brings to life the man who defined an era, and whose musical legacy will never die.

SIMON EVANS: HAVE WE MET YET?

Thu 16 May: 19:30

Hilarious stand-up comedian Simon Evans brings his new 2024 show to the Regent.

BINGO THAT’S BONKERS

Fri 17 May: 19:30

We’re taking bingo out of the hall, adding comedy, music, and even bigger balls! With a smashing atmosphere, crazy games, and not to mention great prizes, the Bingo revolution starts here.

LUTHER

Sat 18 May: 19:30

The world’s premier show in celebration of The Velvet Voice, Luther Vandross. Experience all the hits from his amazing career, culminating over 40 million album sales and eight Grammy awards

MARTY WILDE AND THE WILDCATS

Fri 24 May: 19:30

One of the only performing original Rock’n’roll Pioneers in the World today. A British Legend of music.

BEYOND THE BARRICADE: 25TH ANNIVERSARY

Sat 25 May: 19:30

Beyond the Barricade, the UK’s longest running Musical Theatre Concert Tour, is celebrating its 25th Anniversary in 2024. Join the cast for two hours of the best of Broadway and the West End.

BOURNEMOUTH MUSICAL THEATRE

PRESENTS: THE LITTLE MERMAID

Wed 29 May – Sat 1 June

Based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, and Disney’s classic animated feature, ‘The Little Mermaid’ is a beautiful love story for all ages and is coming to The Regent this half term!

To see our upcoming film titles, please visit our website www.theregent.co.uk or pick up a film list in-person on your next visit.

All information is correct at the time of publication. Please see our website for the latest information www.theregent.co.uk

Historic RNLI photos bring charity’s 200-year past to life

A Poole lifeboat is featured among 11 black and white images that have been colourised to shine a new light on 200 years of saving lives at sea.

Thomas Kirk Wright is among 11 candid snapshots, which have been painstakingly cleaned and colourised with folds, scratches and dust removed using digital technology to celebrate the RNLI’s 200th anniversary on 4 March.

The lifeboat Thomas Kirk Wright can be seen launching from the old lifeboat station to join 18 other RNLI lifeboats taking part in the evacuation of British troops from the French port of Dunkirk.

Today, the old lifeboat station is the RNLI Poole Old Lifeboat Museum. It still houses the Thomas Kirk Wright and is open to visitors.

Poole lifeboat Thomas Kirk Wright launching for Dunkirk to help with the evacuation of British troops ©RNLI

Princess Royal visits National Coastwatch Station at Hengistbury Head

HRH The Princess Royal made 14 February an extra special day for Dorset volunteers when she visited the National Coastwatch station on the clifftop at Bournemouth’s Hengistbury Head.

The Princess Royal was received at the station by HM’s Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset Mr Angus Campbell, CVO, who presented NCI deputy chair, Dr Chris Aps who in turn introduced NCI Hengistbury Head station manager, Peter Holway.

HRH The Princess Royal is Royal Patron of the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI), a charity run entirely by volunteers. This year it celebrates its 30th anniversary of helping to save lives around the coast.

Peter Holway escorted Her Royal Highness into the station’s watch room for a briefing about the work of the highly trained volunteer watchkeepers. On duty were watchkeepers Victoria Jago and Vincent Tabor.

All 2,700 National Coastwatch volunteer watchkeepers help keep people safe and save

lives at sea by maintaining a daily visual and radio watch of the coast, looking out for potential danger. They report coastal and local land-based safety-related incidents to HM Coastguard so that expert help can be sent, including Coastguard Rescue Teams and helicopters, the RNLI, independent lifeboats and all emergency services.

Her Royal Highness was also briefed on the daily operation of the station where volunteers keep watch from 8am until sunset. It is one of the busiest stations in the charity’s network of 60

Photos by Caroline Walker

coastal stations in terms of incident recording.

Hengistbury Head is one of six stations on the Dorset coast. NCI Needles is also a local station sharing a lookout over Christchurch Bay. NCI Stations have HM Coastguard Declared Facility Status which means they are formally recognised as part of the UK’s maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) organisation.

After visiting the station, The Princess Royal attended a reception at St Nicholas Church Hall attended by over 50 NCI watchkeepers and station managers, trustees and other guests including Tim Hewitt, station manager Mudeford RNLI.

Her Royal Highness presented fiveyear service awards to six watchkeepers and unveiled a commemorative plaque.

Stephen Hand, NCI chair, said: “HRH The Princess Royal takes an active interest in our work and we’re privileged that she is our patron. Whenever she visits one of our stations, it’s always a huge boost for everyone involved and really helps to shine a spotlight on the work of our dedicated volunteers.”

THE NEW FOREST AIRFIELDS ON D-DAY 6 JUNE 1944

This year commemorates the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.

On 6 June 1944 the New Forest airfields provided aircraft for beach and convoy defensive patrols, ground attack, night intruder and night fighter missions.

Throughout 6 and 7 June 1944 many of the fighter bomber squadrons were employed on patrol work over the beaches and convoy routes, with six Spitfire squadrons at low level, three P-47 Thunderbolt squadrons higher up, and four P-38 Lightning squadrons over mid channel convoy routes by day. At night, Mosquitos were active flying as night fighters to protect the beach head and operating as night intruders attacking ground targets.

Meantime, Typhoon squadrons were involved in a ground attack role and photo reconnaissance flights were flown using Spitfire, Mosquito, Mustang and Lightning aircraft. Operating alongside all these combat missions were also Parachute transports, Glider tugs and Gliders.

Therefore the 12 New Forest airfields became some of the busiest airfields in the

UK for a short period of time. Many of these were only temporary structures with runways constructed from metal mesh which were uplifted to France after D-Day once the armies had advanced from the beach heads. This historic event will be commemorated with a short service at the New Forest Airfields Memorial in Black Lane, Bransgore on Saturday 8 June. Further information on this, the New Forest airfields and the Heritage Centre opening times can be found at www.fonfa.co.uk

Join HHO in bid to reopen popular outdoor education centre

A campaign to save Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre at Christchurch Harbour is underway.

A Charitable Community Benefits Society, Hengistbury Head Outdoors (HHO) is aiming to take over the Centre, which has remained closed since the COVID-19 pandemic.

A director of HHO, Bill Howlett, explains about the history of the centre: “It was set up in 1964 as the Marine Training Centre, its name was changed in the 1980s to Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre (HHOEC).

“Since 2009 it was operated by Brockenhurst College. In its last full year of operation, 75 schools used HHOEC, which handled over 10,000 school sessions and 5,000 public sessions (adults and young people).

“Then Covid happened and in 2021 BCP took back ownership of the centre and following a survey, the main building was deemed unsafe for public use. It has not been open since March 2020 although existing user groups have limited site access.”

HHO is registered as a charitable Community Benefit Society. It was set up in late 2023 by local watersports groups and enthusiasts who live locally and use the Centre and Christchurch Harbour for recreation and education all year round.

Their aim is to take over the HHOEC and run it as a facility for the community, gifted to the community by BCP Council through the Community Asset Transfer (CAT) process.

A BCP Council spokesperson said: “We are having ongoing discussions with the Hengistbury Head Outdoors group regarding ideas on how the site might be managed by the community in the future.”

Mark Merritt said: “As a CBS we will issue membership of the society through member shares which will entitle an individual to become a lifetime member and have a single vote at our members’ meetings and AGM. In this way we are clearly answerable to the

community and the objectives of the CBS.”

Simon Pitman, also a director of HHO, said: “Our mission is to sympathetically rejuvenate the site, creating a sustainable, innovative yet tranquil space for everyone to participate in many forms of outdoor (water and land) activity.

“We are also taking this time to reach out to the existing, previous and new providers to fully understand their requirements and potential usage of the Centre.”

Mark Merritt added that HHO will be fundraising to help with the cost of negotiating a contract with BCP. He pointed out the directors are acting in a voluntary capacity.

If you would like to become a member and help bring the centre back to a viable future, or you feel can assist HHO with grants, funding, donations, and discussing potential future commercial arrangements with schools, wider education, and training providers, please visit: www.hengistbury.org

Facebook: @Hengistbury Head Outdoors Instagram: @Hengistbury_Head_Outdoors.

To join the supporters mailing list www. hengistbury.org/contact-us/ Membership Member shares: www.hengistbury.org/shares/

Helping toads cross roads – safely

By Louis Pulford

Having grown up as an avid amphibian lover, frogspawn saver, tadpole grower and frog/toad fan, I learnt about the lifecycle of these amphibians at a young age.

I was fascinated how the little black dot in jelly became a sort of podgy little fish, which then produced legs; the back ones first, followed by the front and then the tail seemingly grew backwards until it disappeared.

Toads were always uncommon and I saw less and less over the years, so when I received an article about Ringwood & Poulner Toad Patrol, I was curious about where they were crossing and how many there are in the local area. After meeting with the motivated team and seeing how passionate these lovely humans are about our amphibious friends, it was clear that being involved with such a heart-warming cause would be a great way to contribute to the

local wildlife in the New Forest. There are three shifts a night, seven days a week during the migration period. On my second shift, it was a bountiful evening with many highs. 21 toads were crossed to safety and two casualties were found. Many of the saved toads were pairs, heading to Blashford Lakes to spawn the next generation. Lots of these toads crossed at a slow pace or just sat in the road staring me down, so I do take my hat off to their brazen attitude, but it isn’t doing them any favours being bolshy.

The team of volunteers are a caring group who share similar feelings towards wildlife and biodiversity, each giving their time to patrol and offer safe passage to our fellow travellers.

Nicola Yorke is the current orchestrator and can be found supporting teams and making regular trips to the migration

area. She said, “We’re really grateful to the many drivers who slow down and stay patient as volunteers pick up the toads and carry them across the road.

“Toads are sadly in decline across the country, so every life is precious.”

Following my experience with Toad Patrol I realise there is no easy solution. It is up to us as protectors of our environment to offer aid, safe passage, slow our driving, keep an eye on the road and educate others.

To find out more visit Ringwood & Poulner Toad Patrol group on Facebook.

Toads found on patrol © louispcreative