Dorset View February 2024 by Dorset View

‘Empowered by… Herstories’ by Jayne Jackson Photography. See page 4

February 2024 Volume 21. Issue 7

Charity of the Year

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Volume 21 • Issue 7 • February 2024

DORSET VIEW

Hello Readers!

Ben Pulford managing director ben@dorsetview.co.uk

Another month whizzes by and the snowdrops are out. February is the month my parents loved most because their garden turned white with a stunning blanket of snowdrops, many were hand planted by them. After they died, their final resting place was at St George’s Church, Damerham near Fordingbridge where, every spring, there is an incredible show of snowdrops across the churchyard. To showcase this spectacle, the church holds a Snowdrop Weekend. This year it’s on 10 and 11 February. For us it is a time to fondly remember my parents and tend to their plot as well as getting involved with the warmth of the snowdrop event. St George’s Church opens its doors to everyone for a cup of tea or coffee and homemade cakes during Snowdrop Weekend. It’s well worth a visit. Other spectacular snowdrops can be seen locally at Kingston Lacy this month. The cold snap doesn’t seem to do these hardy winter, white flowers any harm but when it warms up, which was something Louis and myself were waiting for, it becomes time to help a toad across the road. We both volunteered for a local toad patrol and have enlisted Ben and Nick too. As I write, we were waiting to do our first shift because the temperature had just risen above five degrees and the toads were putting themselves at risk as they trekked to their favourite spot for a bit of spring fever. Enjoy this mag. It is full of news, events and a competition, and if your piece didn’t go in as you’d hoped, keep sending us articles because when room permits, yours will feature in print.

Janine Pulford

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 Jecs Davies journalist & social media creator jecs@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

Editor

The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

Picture of the month

LOGISTICS Mike Talbot

“I think we’re just out of Waldorfs.” Fab experience at the Miramar Hotel in Bournemouth

How to contact us

01202 870270

Email: news@dorsetview.co.uk Web: www.dorsetview.co.uk Pulford Publicity, Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ /dorsetview.news @Dorset_View @dorset_view @dorset.view /dorsetview

Copy deadline

6 FEBRUARY 2024

Dorset View is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. Views or opinions expressed in Dorset View are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with Dorset View and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. The company’s privacy policy can be read at www.dorsetview.co uk

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Empowered by... Herstories: A Celebration of Hilda Coles The Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne has announced a captivating photographic collaboration, “Empowered by... Herstories,” bringing to life the legacy of its founder, Hilda Coles (also known as Mick). This innovative project, created by Dorset-based artist and empowerment photographer Jayne Jackson, showcases a vivid narrative through stunning images and theatrical costume, aiming to resonate with diverse audiences. Jayne Jackson worked closely with the museum and Dorset teenager, Emma, to create compelling and narrative-rich images telling the inspiring story of Hilda Coles. The theatrical costume, originally designed by artist Sophie Fretwell, was further refined with input from Emma, infusing the perspectives of the younger generation. This collaborative effort will be displayed at the museum alongside striking photographs this spring. Emma said: “I feel truly inspired to showcase this character; it’s a sense of achievement for me. Connecting with this impactful woman has been an empowering confidence builder. I particularly enjoyed embodying her and creating a statement piece of a strong, confident character, which I surprised myself at doing.”

DORSET VIEW February 2024

This ground-breaking initiative marks the inaugural instalment of a new series of “herstory” images, part of Jayne Jackson’s PhD research. They will playfully highlight the achievements of British historical women while empowering women and girls involved in the process. Jayne passionately emphasises the power of storytelling through photography, art, and theatre to reach and inspire future generations. “This project revolves around the concept that ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’,” said Jayne. “We aim to share the narratives of impactful women through costume and photography, with Mick’s story serving as the perfect start, echoing her original goal to inspire and educate.” Hilda Coles, born on 3 April, 1904, faced societal constraints but defied gender norms of her time. She excelled in sports and contributed to her family’s ironmonger business in Wimborne. Mick’s journey during World War I, personal losses, and post-war challenges reflect strength and determination during a changing era. Her legacy endures through the awardwinning Museum of East Dorset, housed in a historic Grade II* listed building. As the National Women’s History Alliance

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Emma © Jayne Jackson Photography

aptly puts it, “ The impact of women’s history might seem abstract to some, and less pressing than the immediate struggles of working women today. But to ignore the vital role that women’s dreams and accomplishments play in our own lives would be a great mistake. We draw strength and inspiration from those who came before us – and those remarkable women working among us today. They are part of our story, and a truly balanced and inclusive history recognises how important women have always been.” Don’t miss the chance to become ‘Empowered by... Herstories’ at The Museum of East Dorset and draw inspiration from the indomitable spirit of Hilda Coles. Visitors can also explore Victorian Valentines, Roman wall paintings, and more, immersing themselves in a journey through time and experiencing the heritage that Mick and her family cherished.

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CLOSED: Dudsbury Hotel and Spa Although Dudsbury Golf Club remains open until the end of March, the hotel and spa has suddenly closed despite the owner, Beate Robinson, originally intending to refurbish and re-launch aspects of the business. Beate Robinson said in a statement on 4 January: “After careful evaluation, considering factors such as our age, declining health, adverse weather and economic conditions we have made the difficult decision to cease the remaining operations of the business on 1 February 2024 while keeping the golf course open until 31 March 2024.” He thanked his staff and everyone for all their support and kindness and aims to sell the business in April.

CLOSING: King’s Park plant nursery BCP Council has cited financial considerations for the sudden closure of King’s Park Nursery. The nursery in King’s Park Drive, Bournemouth, which was in the past open from March to October, has been growing plants for local parks and gardens on the same site since 1924. There will be a four-day sale in the coming months, which will be publicised through the King’s Park Plant Nursery’s social media channels at facebook.com/ KingsParkNurseryBournemouth In a statement Cllr Millie Earl, deputy leader BCP Council, said: “We have always said we would be open and transparent and the decision to close King’s Park Plant Nursery has been a difficult one and one that hasn’t been made lightly.” The closure will save £85,000 in the 2024/25 financial year.

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law spot by Harold G Walker Solicitors

Council Tax Minimising adverse impact on reduction a child when parents separate scheme updated By Rob Price, Associate, Family Law Solicitor We have many cases where parents have separated. HGW Solicitors will always try to help lower the temperature as much as possible between the parents, to minimise the adverse impact that the separation can have on their child/children. The section of the Children Act 1989, known as the ‘welfare checklist’, is a useful guide for parents who wonder how lawyers and family court judges approach the delicate task of assessing conflicting parental wishes, along with the paramount importance of the ongoing welfare of the child. Two examples of the difficult situations are: Parental alienation This term is often used when one parent (who the child is not with; ‘the absent parent’) accuses the other parent of deliberately putting their child off spending time with them. Sometimes the child themselves can state that

they do not want to see their absent parent. Careful investigation might be required to consider whether there are any alienating behaviours by one parent towards the other. Parental hostility Hostility between parents can be a problem for a child of any age. Sometimes one parent states that the other parent is a ‘bad parent’ in some way. Care must be taken to consider whether the actual risk of harm to the child is in fact from the hostility between the parents. If sorting out child arrangements ends up before the Family Court, CAFCASS can become involved and make use of a Child Impact Assessment Framework. For assistance and guidance on child arrangement matters or for more details, please contact HGW Solicitors at 01202881454 or through email at enquiries@ hgwlaker.co.uk.

Law Spot is for information only and does not constitute legal advice.

DORSET VIEW February 2024

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Dorset councillors have voted to implement an updated Council Tax Reduction scheme from 1 April 2024. The scheme is open to working-age people and offers support for low-income households with paying council tax. It was introduced in 2013 and replaces the former council tax benefit scheme. The new scheme aims to make it easier for residents to understand and access, work better with the Universal Credit system and take away the need for constant changes to awards. It will follow a more unified, simple income grid, taking into account a resident’s income and how many dependants they have, replacing the current means tested system. The scheme excludes some benefits from the calculation of income, protecting applicants who need support whilst receiving other benefits. It also includes increasing the current maximum amount that could be claimed from 90%, up to 100% for those who are eligible. The reductions will be restricted to a council tax band E level, meaning that any applicants who live in a band F, G or H property will have their entitlement calculated at a band E level.

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Royal recognition for care leaver Rylee Dickinson, 21, who grew up in care from the age of 13 met HRH Princess Anne while receiving a public speaking award at the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum in Birmingham at the end of last year. Rylee, who was born in Poole but now lives in Mudeford, received care from BCP Council following years of unsettled moving between unsuitable family households. One of the only relationships to survive Rylee’s transition from childhood to adulthood is with her personal advisor at BCP Council, who continues to play a positive, influential role in her life and the successes she has gone on to achieve. Rylee’s ability to rise to the challenge of public speaking, despite some of the obstacles she has faced in her life, has now seen her claim the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum’s annual ‘Public Speaker of the Year’ prize. The now 21-year-old won the award to applause from many significant individuals in the care sphere, including Her Royal Highness Princess Anne, a patron of Catch 22; the organisation which formed the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum.

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Free watersports sessions in Poole The Bird and Recreation Initiative (BARI) is hosting a series of free-to-access wildlife-friendly watersports sessions across Poole Harbour. Running until June, the free one-hour sessions are open to anyone and are aimed at helping people enjoy recreational waterbased activities in the harbour without causing distress or disruption to the wildlife. Ria Loveridge, mitigation coordinator at BARI, said: “Most people who enjoy watersports such as stand up paddleboarding, kayaking or canoeing also really enjoy nature; in fact, a lot of people choose these motor-free ways to access the water because they’re kinder to wildlife. “What a lot of people don’t realise is just how disruptive their presence is, even if they’re quiet and think they’re being considerate. And that’s what we want to help with, we want people to enjoy the incredible natural harbour that we’re lucky enough to be able to access but without upsetting the wildlife that’s living there.” For more information about the Wildlife-friendly Watersports Sessions follow BARI on social media or email HELLO@ BIRDSOFBARI.ORG.UK and you can see and download the Paddle Power Map on the BARI website www.birdsofbari.org.uk.

Helping the homeless Dorset Council is receiving over £1 million of government funding to help some of the most vulnerable people in the area avoid becoming homeless or living on the streets. The council is adding £539,000 which will be spent on a new Women’s Unit and the Bus Shelter project. A grant of over £781,000 will go towards providing muchneeded accommodation and services to women who have complex lives and need to be housed in a female-only environment. The Bus Shelter Project in Weymouth receives a grant of over £281,000. Cllr Jane Somper, portfolio holder for People – Adult Social Care, Health and Housing said: “This funding will make a huge difference to people in our communities who find themselves in hardship and without a safe space to call home. “We are excited to be able to start the journey of providing female-only accommodation for women who have not been on our radar before now.” Anyone concerned about a loved one who is homeless or facing homelessness, email housinghelp@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or call 01305 221000.

DORSET VIEW February 2024

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PULFORD PUBLICITY sponsors WIMBORNE COMMUNITY GARDEN

Disaster averted! During the high winds Wimborne experienced soon after Christmas, Wimborne Community Garden, like so many gardens, was battered! Jane Benson shares the story. As she explains, it’s more than just about a greenhouse being blown over. “I received a call in the late morning from one of our neighbours to let me know that our greenhouse had been picked up by the wind and totally smashed on to the patio area. I was very appreciative of this call as although the news wasn’t good, we’re so grateful to have neighbours watching over the garden for us. So I sent a message out on our garden’s Whatsapp group explaining what had happened and that I could get there at 3 o’clock if anyone could come and help me sort this situation out. I have to tell

you that it wasn’t a pleasant afternoon – it was cold and really pretty miserable. However, I wrapped up warm and set off for the garden at three, only to find that far from being on my own, 10 other volunteers had turned up to help. It was amazing. We set to work with brushes and shovels and in next to no time had the glass swept up, the patio area cleared and the greenhouse back on its feet. It’s always so frustrating and expensive when things get damaged in the wind but as it happened, our greenhouse disaster also served to demonstrate what a wonderful team of volunteers we have at the garden. The clear up epitomised just what we as a community garden aspire to do – to work together and get things done. Wonderful. All that said, we’re all hoping not to have to pick up the greenhouse again

for a long, long time.” Now, as the valiant bulbs come up and with the continued and much appreciated support from Pulford Publicity and Dorset View, we go on into this new year with great hopes for the future.

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Welcome the Dragon The Year of the Dragon, specifically the Wood Dragon, will be welcomed on Saturday 10 February as it is Chinese New Year’s Day. The year runs until 28 January 2025.

China will celebrate this auspicious, energetic and powerful year from 9-15 February as a public holiday although celebrations will continue until the lantern festival on 24 February. Taiwan will enjoy a seven-day holiday from 8 February to 14 February. Hong Kong and Macau will have an eight-day holiday from 10 February to 17 February. Holidays in other Southeast Asian countries are one to three days. The date of Chinese New Year changes each year, but always falls between 21 January and 20 February. The date is decided by the Chinese Lunar Calendar, based on the cycles of the moon and sun. It is generally 21-51 days behind the Gregorian calendar. Chinese New Year falls on a new moon day, usually the second after the winter solstice. The 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac are Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig.

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Charity of the Year Get set for Lewis-Manning’s pawsome Muddy Dog Dash in Upton Country Park! Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s hugely popular ‘Muddy Dog Dash’ which promises to be a brilliantly fun… and muddy event will take place on Sunday 17 March. The ‘Muddy Dog Dash’, sponsored by Barratt Homes, takes place at Upton Country Park, Poole. Runners, walkers, families and friends, with or without a dog can choose between a 2.5km and 5km muddy obstacle course. Spectators are more than welcome and can enjoy the pawsome event village while they wait for their muddy friends to return. Hannah Garrett, event fundraiser at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care said, “You can choose to run, jog or walk, that’s up to you. Whatever your ability it will be a fantastically muddy experience. There will be various fun obstacles including ramps, tyre runs, wiggle poles and much, much more. There will be goodie bags sponsored by Nurturing by Nature, rosettes and certificates. Megan Hamlyn, marketing manager at Barratt Homes said: “We are thrilled to be supporting Lewis-Manning Hospice Care again for their hugely popular ‘Muddy Dog Dash’, it’s certainly an event not to be missed. Barratt Homes are always keen to support their local communities and causes like Lewis-Manning who provide vital care and support to patients and their families across East Dorset and Purbeck.” Hannah concluded, “What are you waiting for? - On your barks, get set… GO!!

About Lewis-Manning Hospice Care Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is a charity providing extraordinary care to patients and their loved ones facing a life-limiting illness across East Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Purbeck and west Hampshire. They offer a range of free hospice care services aimed at helping people to live well through their illness, closer to home and at home. lewis-manning.org.uk

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If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Dorset View is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

health and care

Memories on the move Objects from bygone eras are being used to bring memories to life for elderly people and those living with dementia through a reminiscence outreach project launched by Wimborne’s MED (Museum of East Dorset). Made possible by funding from Dorset Council, members of the museum’s team of experienced volunteers visit day centres, care homes and senior clubs across East Dorset to run the sessions which last about 45 minutes.There is no charge, but any donation is welcome and will contribute towards the project as part of the museum’s charitable status. For more information and to book a session, email Mary Knowles at reminiscence@museumofeastdorset.co.uk.

Grants for mental health projects available Grants of up to £40,000 a year are available to grass roots charities and voluntary groups helping to support wellbeing and mental health, thanks to a new partnership between Dorset Community Foundation, Community Action Network (CAN) and NHS Dorset. The Community Wellbeing and Mental Health Fund, which is open for applications until 1 March, will offer grants of up to £80,000 over two years or £10,000 over one year. There will be a second application round in the summer for grants up to £10,000. Dorset Community Foundation grants manager Ellie Maguire said: “Priority will be given to projects in communities experiencing health inequalities, including people living in areas of high deprivation and those who are socially excluded and experience multiple risk factors for poor health.” CAN and the community foundation are holding a series of information events and details can be found at dorsetcommunityfoundation.org, emailing grants@dorsetcf.org or calling 07592 032666.

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health and care / caring about people is an act of maturity .

Dorset Council to stop running QE Leisure Centre QE Leisure Centre (QELC) in Wimborne will no longer operate as a public leisure centre from the end of March. Dorset Council has confirmed it is preparing to hand over the running of QELC to the owners, Queen Elizabeth’s School Trust on 31 March 2024. Whilst QELC won’t be run as a public leisure centre, QE students will still use the facilities for lessons, and new arrangements are being developed by the school to provide opportunities for clubs and community groups to hire the facilities. QELC is in an area where seven public leisure facilities are within a 20-minute drive - three of which are owned by Dorset Council. It was considered that the council could not justify the continued public funding of QELC of around £500,000 each year. There are around 40 permanent employees at QELC; nine full-time workers, with a further 31 in part-time roles. Everyone in scope of potential redundancy has now entered a 45-day period of formal consultation with Dorset Council, via 1:1 support and in liaison with trade unions. If anyone has any questions about services and activities at QELC from 1 April 2024 onwards, contact office@ queenelizabeths.com or call 01202 885233. To discuss existing services and activities at QELC up to 31 March 2024, contact the centre via Queenelizabeth@ dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or by calling 01202 888208.

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L-R Nicki Cluley, Louis Pulford, Simon Thornton, Janine Pulford, Ben Pulford, Olivia Girling. HEIC

Pulford Publicity visits their charity of the year Pulford Publicity visited Lewis-Manning Hospice Care day centre in Poole to understand the workings of the charity. Janine Pulford said: “We visited the hospice to find out more about all that they do supporting patients and their families with life limiting illnesses across East Dorset and Purbeck. It was so interesting to gain an understanding of the different levels of care and support that they offer to so many, and we enjoyed learning about their ‘closer to home’ strategy and the development of hubs across the county. “We’re pleased to be partnering with Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, covering their busy schedule of events in each of our magazines and helping to inform our readers about the amazing care that they provide.” Lewis-Manning’s Corporate Fundraiser, Nicki Cluley added, “It was brilliant to welcome the directors Ben, Janine and Louis along with marketing executive Simon Thornton to the hospice. We’ve got some exciting plans for different ways of collaborating in 2024 and we look forward to sharing them with you in the coming months.”

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health and care

Campaign to help Poole girl A 10-year-old girl from Poole is amongst more than 230 children in the UK who needs a life-saving organ transplant. Sophie has been waiting for a lung transplant, which will also include heart surgery, since May 2023. She was

Sophie’s official doll

diagnosed with health problems in the womb. Now, in a bid to raise awareness of the need for more child organ donors, a campaign has been launched that will see the children transformed into handmade dolls that will be placed across the country. Each doll will wear a badge inviting people to scan a QR code and hear stories of children waiting for transplants. Sophie’s doll is being hosted by Great Ormond Street Hospital, which will carry out her double lung transplant when she gets her call. It is hoped that the dolls and the real-life children’s stories will inspire more families to consider organ donation and add themselves and their children onto the NHS Organ Donor Register. To learn more use your phone to search for the Waiting to Live campaign.

Sophie

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education / the future relies on what we learn today.

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health and care

Caring creates bonds Care, in its many forms, stands as the cornerstone of human connection and societal harmony. At its essence, care is more than just the provision of assistance; it encapsulates empathy, understanding, and a genuine commitment to the well-being of individuals. One of the profound benefits of care lies in its ability to foster strong, supportive relationships. Whether in personal connections or professional settings, the act of caring creates bonds that nurture trust and solidarity. Moreover, care plays a pivotal role in enhancing mental and emotional health. Compassionate gestures, active listening, and genuine concern can alleviate stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. In healthcare, patient outcomes are often significantly improved when accompanied by compassionate care, as it contributes to a positive healing environment.

On a societal level, the benefits of care extend to the development of resilient communities. Acts of kindness and support, especially during challenging times, strengthen the social fabric. Furthermore, care is an aid to personal development. When individuals experience care, whether as recipients or providers, they are more inclined to cultivate empathy and altruism. In essence, the benefits of care are multifaceted, encompassing emotional well-being, relational bonds, and societal cohesion. As we navigate the complexities of life, embracing care as a fundamental value can be transformative, creating a world where compassion is the guiding force in our interactions and relationships.

Glass flowers celebrate charity’s 30th anniversary Forest Holme Hospice Charity has announced details of a display of 1,000 handcrafted stained glass fritillaria flowers to mark its 30th anniversary. The stained glass fritillaria flowers, created by artist Ellie Drake-Lee from Garden Glass Art, can be viewed free of charge from Saturday 27 April– Thursday 2 May in the garden at Merley House, Wimborne. You can have the opportunity to own a piece of this commemorative work as the keepsake flowers are available to pre-purchase via https://register.enthuse. com/ps/event/GlassFlowers.

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How Men’s Hub helped me

A personal journey by John

“In late September 2014, I was admitted to hospital because I couldn’t feel my feet. Two weeks later, my legs were amputated below the knee. Soon after

that, my fingers started to go black and distorted. They were surgically removed in April 2015. These issues were caused by an unexplained loss of circulation to my extremities, causing gangrene. Not surprisingly, this sudden change to my life and wellbeing caused anxiety and distress to me and my family. I was hospitalized for 10 months and will always be eternally grateful to the staff of the NHS for their astonishing care and for saving my life. “Life in the real world changed, and everyday tasks became huge challenges. I had to learn to walk with prosthetic legs. Eating without fingers meant that more food went onto my clothes than in my mouth. Normal activities were so frustrating, and I thought at the time that my world had come crashing down. “Over time, I realised that my life hadn’t necessarily got worse, it was just different. I can now walk reasonably well with my prosthetic legs. I’m able to eat food rather than wear it. I go shopping or to cafés. “We moved to Bournemouth in 2015. I was medically retired from work, and I’d always wanted to retire to the seaside. I needed to occupy my mind, so I started an Open University degree. It was going well, but something was

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missing. I needed human interaction and I was surprised to find a vast array of activities on my doorstep. I now enjoy a local group or pastime every weekday. “I recently joined the Men’s 2020 Vision Hub in Seabourne Road as I wanted to make things. I was a bit apprehensive as I expected to be turned away due to my disabilities, but needn’t have worried. Phil took me through all the tools at my induction and we worked out which machines I would be able to use. Since then, I have made a stool, a wall clock and most recently, a mantel clock. If I need help, I just ask, and either Phil, David (a volunteer) or one of the lads using the workshop are more than happy to help. Since joining, I have felt a great sense of fulfilment and camaraderie and have no doubt that the Men’s Hub has helped enormously with my mental health and wellbeing.” The Men’s Hub in Seabourne Road, Bournemouth, currently runs two carpentry workshops and a social evening. The Hub Café to support the men’s work opened in November. It is open to all Wednesday to Saturday. For details visit: www.mens2020visionhub. com or call into the café.

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Urgent action needed to reduce shocking death rate for new mothers, says RCM The RCM is urging Government to take action to reverse the shocking rise in the number of women who died during or within six weeks of pregnancy. Figures released in January by MBRRACE-UK show that the maternal death rate has reached levels not seen in over 20 years and the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) is urging the Government to take immediate action. Commenting on the report, the RCM’s chief executive, Gill Walton said: “Pregnancy and childbirth in the UK

continue to be safe for most women, but the rise in deaths is a deeply worrying trend. The numbers in the report don’t lie - we are moving backward not forward. The Government and the whole of the health service needs to pull together to reverse this trend. Midwife shortages are undermining the ability of maternity staff to deliver the safest possible

care. This is fundamentally a failure of policy makers and the Government to get investment quickly to where it is needed at the frontline of care.” Maternal death rates among nonwhite women are significantly higher, with Black women three times more likely to die during pregnancy or in the immediate postnatal period and Asian women twice as likely says the RCM. Gill Walton said: “Action is needed nationally, with a multiagency approach, to address the wider inequalities faced by Black and Asian women. There needs to be more joint working between clinicians so that issues are spotted earlier, better training – and the time to undertake such training – and specialist midwives to meet the increasingly complex needs of women and families.” While much-needed investment is beginning to come through to maternity services, the RCM is calling for greater focus on these areas of deep concern. Chronic midwife shortages across England, currently estimated at around 2,500, often see staff pulled away from important antenatal care to cover labour and birth. The impact of this is felt by women and families, especially when those at higher risk of complications, those with pre-existing but undiagnosed conditions and those with perinatal mental health concerns are unable to access specialist support. The key findings of the report are: • The maternal death rate in 20202022 was 13.41 deaths per 100,000 mothers. This is significantly higher than the 8.7 deaths per 100,000 new mothers reported in 2017-2019. • Even when deaths as a result of COVID-19 are excluded, the maternal death rate for 2020-22 remains higher than the rate for 2017-19 • Women living in the most deprived areas are twice as likely to die as those who live in more advantaged areas. • Thrombosis and Thromboembolism was the leading cause of death in women who died during pregnancy or within six weeks of their pregnancy ending. COVID-19 was the second most common cause of death.

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health and care

Be Inspired with this New Year offer and join BH Live Active for £1! - advertisement feature -

Whether you’re new to fitness or a seasoned enthusiast, BH Live Active has great value memberships for all. With family, individual, group and corporate options, you are invited to join our thriving active community – providing access to great activities to inspire a more active you - including gyms, fitness classes – including Les MillsTM –and swimming. Facilities include high-spec gym equipment, heated pools, spas, cafés, soft play, tennis courts, and more. Plus with selected BH Live Active memberships you can get exclusive access to BH Live Active Member Perks providing thousands of discounts from retailers across the UK. Smash your new year activity goals with support from our BH Live Active team - or just enjoy using the facilities at your own pace. You can even workout anywhere, anytime, with more than 1,000 online classes including live streams via BH Live Active at Home. Push yourself with a range of workouts for all ages and abilities, including HIIT, Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and group cycling. It’s time to party… did you know BH Live Active also has exciting children’s attractions for exercise, play and parties? Choose from the Crusher pool inflatable course at Littledown, AirJumpX at Sir David English, Wet & Wacky fun in the pools and football

parties to give your little one and their friends a smashing day to remember! NEW! Pelhams Park Leisure Centre has had an amazing facelift with a brand-new gym and studios including Technogym group cycle classes. BH Live Active Queens’ Park is also now open and packed with an awesome class programme, split level gym, new café and more. Stokewood is getting brand new changing rooms, already in progress! Join a BH Live Active leisure centre near you or if you are still unsure, come into centre and ask about a FREE one-day guest pass. Littledown, Queen’s Park, Pelhams, Stokewood, Sir David English and Corfe Mullen. Go to bhliveactive.org.uk and grab our New Year offer and join for £1! (T&C's apply)

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health and care / caring about people is an act of maturity .

Hospital cancer care volunteers needed If you feel you can support people undergoing cancer treatment, University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) would like to hear from you. Volunteers are needed to join an innovative cancer care pilot project which is funded by Wessex Cancer Alliance. Volunteers may include former patients who have been directly affected by cancer, or friends and family members of those who have been impacted by cancer and want to make a difference. Volunteers will be based with UHD’s cancer specialist teams across Royal Bournemouth and Poole hospitals, with referrals made where clinical teams feel a patient could benefit from additional health and wellbeing support via telephone or face to face, for an agreed period of time. Claire Smith, lead cancer nurse at UHD, said: “This is a really rewarding role that is about supporting patients during their cancer care and treatment. By providing advice, friendship and solidarity to someone throughout one of the hardest times of their life, volunteers are able to make a tangible and lasting difference through their lived experiences. In return, volunteers can expect to receive comprehensive training and support, and be a welcome addition to our hospital community.” To find out more, email Claire. Smith@uhd.nhs.uk

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DORSET VIEW February 2024

Jackie and Janet, volunteers at Poole Hospital

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How’s your year going? Want some free support to live more healthily? Did you start the New Year with a resolution to make a healthy change - to lose weight, quit smoking, becoming more active or drink less alcohol? It’s not too late – LiveWell Dorset is here to support you yearround, not just after Christmas! Maybe things haven’t gone to plan or you haven’t even got to the start line yet. Turn your thoughts into actions. Make the most of LiveWell’s amazing free service available to every Dorset adult. Registering is the first step to becoming the healthiest version of you. LiveWell offers coaching, kick-start weight loss programmes: free vouchers for local slimming groups or an app and stop smoking quit kits: nicotine replacement, and vape kits. One of LiveWell’s friendly advisors will talk through the options and help you create an action plan to get started. Coaching is one of the most popular choices and involves six sessions with a behaviour change specialist to help you ditch old habits and form healthy new ones. Having support to stay on track with your resolutions can make all the difference. As weight loss client Fern found: “Coming off the first call with my coach, Susan, I felt impassioned and motivated. I did not want to be a January statistic, one of those people who lost lots of weight in the New Year but then piled it back on, but the way Susan approached it, it seemed sustainable.” Register at livewelldorset.co.uk or call 0800 840 1628

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

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DORSET VIEW February 2024

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

From tiny Chihuahua to goofy Lurcher all sorts of dogs need new homes The local animal charity Waggy Tails would like to see all their lovely dogs have a fresh start and find their forever homes – perhaps you can help with this. Pictured are just some of the many dogs looking for homes right now. And don’t forget, Waggy Tails also have rabbits and guinea pigs too. The charity is also looking for foster homes for their dogs. If you are interested, please call the office for further details. Another way to help is by attending Waggy Tails' events. There is a Spring Fair on 16 March at Kinson Community Centre, Kinson, 10am to 12.30pm. You can also support Waggy Tails by shopping at the Turbary Road shop where there is a wide range of clothing, shoes and bags and homewares for the house, along with dog and animal items. The shop is at 9 Turbary Road, Ferndown, BH22 8AW. For more details on Waggy Tails and updates about the dogs visit www.waggytails.org.uk

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pets and wildlife / an animal's eyes speak a powerful language.

Pond owners should form community groups In a recently published study, scientists identify the best ways to manage your garden pond to provide a haven for aquatic species such as insects and snails in urban areas. The researchers provide various recommendations, one of which is that pond owners should form community groups to provide bugs with a mix of environments, helping them to thrive across neighbourhoods. The findings have been published in the journal Insect Conservation and Diversity. Dr Matthew Hill, lecturer in Ecology at Bournemouth University who led the study said there are an estimated 2.5-3.5 million garden ponds in the UK and they can add to local biodiversity if they are managed correctly. He added: “Many ponds are managed for aesthetic reasons or fishkeeping, rather than as habitats for wildlife. But if we can add biodiversity into the ornamental designs, they could provide an important freshwater resource in urban areas.” In the new study, the Freshwater Habitats Trust carried out surveys of 30 ponds in Oxfordshire to collect data. This was analysed by Dr Hill which led to the following recommendations: Have as big a pond as possible: The surface area of a pond should be at least five square metres to increase the number of bugs and snails that live there. Although pond-keepers need to understand any safety implications of having a bigger pond. Increase the number of native plants in the pond: Plants are vital for providing food and keeping a balanced ecosystem in ponds. While some non-native plants are popular for

ornamental reasons, they should be in the minority. Nonnative plants to avoid include Crassula helmsii (also known as New Zealand pigmyweed) Lagarosiphon major (curly waterweed), Elodea nuttallii (western waterweed) and Myriophyllum aquaticum (parrot's feather). Top up with rainwater to reduce conductivity of the water. Simple devices are available to measure a pond’s conductivity. Lower conductivity levels will enable environmentally sensitive species to thrive. Fish food, potting compost from plants as well as natural contaminants can affect conductivity. Although ornamental fish will feed on bugs, the researchers did not find evidence of them affecting biodiversity, however they noted that ponds in the study had low to moderate numbers of fish. Plants can provide a hiding place to reduce the risk of predation from fish. Whilst Dr Hill and the team believe that it is important to have ponds with a rich array of species, they also advise it is important to manage ponds that are more ecologically unique because they are contributing to the species pool. This is where they believe that pond-keepers can come together to form community groups. “People generally manage their ponds on an individual basis. It would better if they could be managed collectively as a group of ponds. We don’t want every pond to be the same, we want a wide range of environmental conditions for bugs. This has been recommended before for terrestrial garden management and could now be taken further to include water habitats,” Dr Hill concluded.

Protect your dog against Leptospirosis By Lynwood Vets The importance of vaccination of pets is not just to protect the health of your cat or dog but also their humans. In particular, there is a disease called Leptospirosis, which is more commonly known as Weil’s disease (pronounced ‘viles’). This is well known to canoeists and anglers as a waterborne disease, but the commonest source is from rats and other rodents. Dogs take great interest in the smell of rodent urine and are very susceptible to this condition, which causes a high fever, liver and kidney failure and is often fatal. Any mammal species can be infected by the bacteria, including humans. An effective and safe vaccine has been included in the standard canine vaccination protocols for many years and has saved many lives. However, in recent years some new strains of leptospirosis have appeared in the southwest of England, which are not covered by the older vaccines. Lynwood vets have seen a few cases of dogs ill with leptospirosis that had received the old vaccine, and are urging all owners to vaccinate their dogs with the new ‘L4’ vaccine, to ensure they have protection against the new strains. The L4 vaccine is safe and effective against the new strains, but unfortunately unfounded claims of health risks have been spread online which has deterred some owners from using the vaccine. This has sadly resulted in some pets remaining at risk unnecessarily and potentially becoming infected.

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DORSET VIEW February 2024

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wimborne

Become a town councillor If you have strong views about Wimborne, why not put your name forward for election to Wimborne Minster Town Council. Elections take place on 2 May, when, if elected, 16 councillors will serve a five-year term. Candidates should be passionate about their community and want to help shape it. People from all backgrounds and experiences can put themselves forwards and they don’t need experience or special qualifications, just time to commit to evening meetings and events. For more information visit: https://www.wimborne.gov.uk/2023/12/elections-2024/

A new County Standard for the Royal British Legion was dedicated by the rector the Rev Canon Andrew Rowland at a service held in Wimborne Minster church before Christmas. Picture by Steve Knight shows the rector at the Minster entrance with Yvonne Thrumble and the new County Standard. Looking on sideways is Pam Hunt.

Celebrating Wimborne’s foodie outlets Following the successful Salamander’s Wimborne Food Walk in December, which attracted 28 guests for the biggest walk to date to celebrate the town’s food shops, cafés and restaurants, the spring walk is approaching. To find out more and sign up for the next walk visit www.salamandercookshop.com

Tasty treats during the December walk

NEWS IN BRIEF

20mph proposal Wimborne Minster Town Council is seeking feedback from residents for proposals for a 20mph scheme at Burt’s Hill and the Wimborne First School. Log onto https://www.wimborne. gov.uk/2023/12/public-consultation-20-mph-restriction/ Carols in Wimborne’s Cornmarket raised more than £900 for Minster funds.

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Embrace the café culture By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk There might be a few people who exclaim, ‘not another coffee shop!’ when a new one appears in our local towns, but the vast majority of local people welcome them. And they are proving it with people of all ages patronising them on a regular basis. In fact, on one Saturday morning in Wimborne, my friend and I had to go into several before we found a spare table – and then it was the last one. You have to look back to 16th century Turkey to find the origin of the culture of coffeehouses. The first coffee house in England was established in 1650 in Oxford and would become known as a penny university, the price of a coffee at that time being one penny. In the late 17th and 18th centuries, coffeehouses in London became popular meeting places for artists, writers, and socialites, as well as centres for political and commercial activity.

And if you’re planning a holiday to Albania, you would find that has surpassed Spain as the country with the most coffeehouses per capita in the world! Not only does café culture cement friendships, it encourages people to get out and about, which is so important in our long winter months. A number of organisations have realised that setting up a regular date in a local café enables people who would otherwise be lonely to meet up with like minded people. See article on Chitter Chatter Club on page 32. Sociability is one of the keys to reducing your risk of dementia, and where better to have a good old natter than over a cup of coffee or tea, and/or a light lunch or a cake. And if you haven’t yet found the pleasure involved in meeting friends for refreshments, what are you waiting for?

Competition to win coffee and cake for two With the growing coffee culture and socialisation over a cuppa, wouldn’t it be nice to meet up with a friend and enjoy a coffee and cake each for free! Pulford Publicity is running a competition for one person to win coffee, or tea, with a piece of cake for two. For your chance to win this sociable prize courtesy of Pulford Publicity at the coffee outlet of your choice from those advertising on this page, answer the following question:

Where was the first coffee house in England established? When you send in your answer, remember to say which coffee house you would like to visit. It must be one advertising on this page. Good luck! Enter online at www.dorsetview.co.uk or send your answer to the address on page three of this magazine. Closing date is 14 March 2024. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The coffee and cake voucher will have to be spent within three months of being awarded. The winner must state where they wish to spend their coffee and cake voucher or their entry will be invalid. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner of the competition. The winner will be announced in the magazine and their name and phone number/email address will be passed to their chosen business for the purposes of allocating the voucher.

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foodie news

Naked Chocolate Valentine Cake In addition to going out for a meal to celebrate Valentine’s Day, why not bake a very special cake – with a slightly naughty name. The Naked Chocolate Valentine Cake recipe has been dreamed up by Tesco – and it only takes 45 minutes to prepare and 45 minutes to cook. It serves eight people and is just 305 calories per serving. It is suitable for vegetarians.

Ingredients: For the cake

100g butter • 100g plain chocolate, chopped 100g plain flour • ½ tsp baking powder ¼ tsp bicarbonate of soda • 2 eggs • 100ml soured cream

For the syrup

150g raspberries and strawberries, chopped 2 tbsp caster sugar

For the icing

150g butter, softened • 300g icing sugar, sieved For the dressing • 50g plain chocolate, melted 200g strawberries, sliced, plus two whole strawberries

Method

Heat the oven to gas 4, 180°C, fan 160°C. Grease and base line a 15cm round cake tin. Put the butter and chocolate into a small pan and heat gently, stirring until melted. Leave to cool. Sieve the flour, baking powder and bicarbonate of soda into a bowl. In another bowl whisk together the eggs and soured cream. Add the chocolate mixture and the egg mixture to the flour and mix until smooth. Pour into the tin and bake for 40-45 minutes. To make the strawberry syrup, put the fruit and sugar into a small pan with 1 tbsp water. Heat gently until the sugar has dissolved and the fruit is beginning to soften. Cook over a medium heat for about 10-15 mins until the mixture is reduced and syrupy. Remove from the heat and sieve - there should be about two tbsp of syrup. Leave to cool. To make the icing, put the butter in a bowl and gradually beat in the icing sugar. Add the cold strawberry syrup and 1 tsp hot water and beat until smooth. Slice the chocolate cake into three horizontally. Put just over half of the butter icing into a piping bag fitted with a large star nozzle. Spread a very thin layer of icing onto the bottom layer of the cake, then pipe a ring of icing around the outside edge of the cake. Fill the centre with half the sliced strawberries. Place the second layer of cake on top and repeat the filling and piping. Fill the centre with the remaining sliced strawberries. Place the final layer on top and spread with a thick layer of icing and pipe around the outside edge as before. Allow the melted chocolate to cool slightly so that it thickens. Dip each whole strawberry halfway in the chocolate, shake off the drips and place on the top of the cake. Put the remaining chocolate into a disposable piping bag. Snip off the end and pipe the word ‘LOVE’ onto non-stick baking paper. Pipe hearts with the remaining mixture. Leave to set. Carefully peel the letters from the paper and place on the cake. Either place the hearts on the cake or use to decorate each slice when served.

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Café clubs fighting loneliness By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk With the message that ‘loneliness brings us together, not apart’, a Bournemouth woman has set up an organisation to help people to meet new friends and to feel less isolated. Since Anne Anderson started up the Chitter Chatter Clubs in February 2022, more than 8,000 people have enjoyed meeting up for tea and coffee in cafés in the BCP and Dorset Council areas. Anne explains: “At the end of lockdown I went to a party in a block of retirement flats in Westbourne where I live. But noone turned up as they were too frightened to come out of their apartments.” She realised that many people had become isolated and was determined to do something about it. “I really care about people who are afraid to come out,” said Anne, so the idea was born to contact cafés to see if they would be happy to provide a table for people on one day a week to just turn up and meet others. “Cafés loved the idea and now there are eight locations where people can meet. You don’t have to book; just turn up to meet like minded folk.” Each of the café meeting places has a volunteer host who makes everyone feel welcome. In addition to meeting in cafes people

are invited to go on nature days out and in the diary for this year are visits to Highcliffe Castle, Badbury Rings, Ringwood Forest and Arne, and Studland, Old Harry Rocks and Swanage by bus. Anne describes herself as ‘a single, confident lady who has struggled with loneliness’. However, she does have a comment about people in the south of England. “I am a northerner and I don’t feel there would be a need for Chitter Chatter in that part of England, as people talk to their neighours all the time. People are more reserved in the south and they lose confidence,” she said. “I am putting out a hand of friendship with Chitter Chatter. “I am amazed so see how far we have come at the clubs, along with the dedicated volunteers. People have joined and rebuilt their lives. Our goal is to ensure that no-one ever sits alone and lonely.” The weekly Chitter Chatter clubs are: Mon 2.30-4pm Conto Lounge, Wimborne Road, Winton, BH9 2HB. Tue 10am-12noon Kings Park Care Home, Church Road, Ferndown, BH22 9EU

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DORSET VIEW February 2024

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Anne Anderson

and 2.30-4pm Arcado Lounge (in the back), High Street, Christchurch, BH23 1AS. Wed 2.30-4pm Café Gardenia, 217 Lower Blandford Road, Broadstone. Thur 9.15am-11am, Nautico Lounge, 66 St Thomas Street, Weymouth, DT4 8EL and 2.30pm The Café at the Allendale, Wimborne BH21 1AS. Fri 10.30am-12 noon Hyacinth House care home, Colehill. Also on the first Thursday of the month 2 - 3.30pm: Parley Place, 300 Christchurch Road, West Parley BH22 8SL. Anne has also produced a free online Loneliness Recovery Course. See www. thechitterchatterclub.co.uk

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Events Details were correct at the time of going to print. Send information about your events to newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

6 February 2.30-4pm Bits & Bytes Computer Club is an informal group discussing latest scams and computer problems in Ferndown library. It will be held on the first and third Tuesdays of the month. See https://www. neilbarton.co.uk/bnbclub.html. 6 February 10am-3pm Poole Leisure Painters meets at Lighthouse Poole. Contact secretary 01202 693526. 7 February 2pm Lytchett & Upton Floral Club host Irene Hickson demonstrating “Springtime” at CJs, Lytchett Minster Church. 8 February 3-5pm Arthritis Care Ferndown meets at Ferndown Day Centre. Guests pay £5 for entertainment, afternoon tea and outings. Call 0330 311 2793. 8-10 and 15-18 February 12-4pm Snowdrop days in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance at 10, Ryan Close, Ferndown, BH22 9TP. Over130 carefully named snowdrops. Limited bulbs for sale. Soup, drinks and cake 10 Feb 10am-1pm RSPB New Forest Local Group field trip to Pennington/ Oxey Marshes (SZ 327 941). Meet at bottom of Maiden Lane, Lymington. Non-members £5, members free. Tel 01425 652864 https:// group.rspb.org.uk/newforest/

around & about 10-11 February 12noon-4pm Snowdrop weekend at St George’s Church, Damerham SP6 3HU.

14 February 7.45pm East Dorset Antiquarian Society meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Wimborne.

15 February 7.30pm 2024 Banff Mountain Film Festival at Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne. 16-18 February Co.Mad present Pinocchio at Colehill Village Hall. Tickets from www.ticketsource.co.uk/comad 16 February 10am for 10.30am Wimborne u3a talk on The Spice of Life at Wimbone Methodist Church. £2 members £4 guests 18 February 3pm Bournemouth Chamber Music Society recital in Kimmeridge House, Bournemouth University, Fernbarrow, Poole BH12 5BB. Tickets www. bournemouthchambermusic. co.uk or at the door. 19 February 7.30pm Jazz at the Allendale with Swing Unlimited Big Band. Admission free with tickets at the doors and a retiring collection in aid of Dorset Rural Music School and Youth Music Wessex 19 February 10.30-11.30am Reading Friends group meets at Ferndown Library. Contact the library for more info. 20 February 8pm Wimborne Civic Society meets in the Quaterjack Suite at the Allendale Centre.

14 February 6.30-9pm Bournemouth Big Band, Swing and Jazz Club meet downstairs in Kinson Community Centre. Full details on www. bournemouthjazzclub.org

23 February 8pm A night of comedy at The Black Cherry in Bournemouth in aid of Diverse Abilities. To book tickets visit diverseabilities.org. uk/events2024/comedy

11 February 10am-5pm Rising Voices Wessex Big Sings ABBA at at Talbot Heath School, Rothesay Road, Talbot Woods, Poole. Singers can register to take part on admin@risingvoices.org. uk or Eventbrite. Performance at 4pm entrance donation £5. 12 February 2.15pm West Moors Horticultural Society AGM and Illustrated talk in the Memorial Hall. Contact Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536. 13 February 11am Wimborne Minster Pancake Race. All competitors should report to the north porch by 10.30am to enrol, complete with frying pan and ready cooked pancake. Winner receives a prize from Viewpoint Magazine. 14 Feb 7.30 - 9.30pm RSPB New Forest Local Group, Lyndhurst Community Centre SO43 7NY. Non-members £5, members £3. Tel 01425 652864 https:// group.rspb.org.uk/newforest/

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24 February 10am Verwood Litter Pick at Skate Park, Potterne Park. Contact Simon Gibson for more info on: cllr.gibson@hotmail.co.uk 25 February 4pm Broadstone Music Series presents The Kyan String Quartet at Broadstone Methodist Church, 210 Lower Blandford Road, BH18 8DP. Advanced online booking recommended at www. broadstonemusicseries.info. Limited tickets available on the door. 27 February West Parley Gardening Club meets 7.30pm at the MS Centre, West Parley. Visitors welcome £3. Refreshments available. Contact Rod Darch 01202 896711. Email: rod@rdconsulting.co 28 February 7.30pm Ringwood Antiques Club meets for a talk on ‘The Murder of Harry Oakes’ in the Greyfriars Hall, Ringwood. 28 February 2.30pm-4.30pm RSPB New Forest Local Group field trip park, off Rhinefield Arboretum Ornamental Drive near Brockenhurst. Nonmembers £5, members free. Tel 01425 652864 https://group. rspb.org.uk/newforest/ 29 February 7 for 7.30pm Wimborne Community Theatre quiz night at Colehill Sports and Social Club, 108 Wimborne Road, Colehill BH21 2QR. Contact Barbara Hart at 01202 884201 or email barbarahart414@gmail.com.

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around & about / please check with the venue for the latest information

OMAs presented at red carpet event The Original Music Awards 2023, celebrating the music industry in Dorset, were presented at a glittering red-carpet event at Lighthouse Poole on 19 January 2024. Organised by Matt Black and his partner Mel Berkhauer and a hardworking team behind the scenes it was attended by several hundred people including the nominees. The party atmosphere was captured on film as the winners were presented with their awards. Nominees and winners enjoyed being photographed on the red carpet before and after the awards ceremony. Singer songwriter, Millie Watson, the winner of Best Newcomer at the inaugural awards last year kicked off the event performing live on stage. To round off the evening Soulhole played a lively set of funk rock and blues. The next awards will take place on 17 January 2025. Tom Brown's

AND THE WINNERS ARE… • Special Award - Belief And Strength: Ethereal UK • Best Venue For Inclusivity and Accessibility: Lighthouse, Poole • Best Open To All: Si Genaro • Special Award - Most Original Artist Working Cross Genre: Bite The Boxer (Matt Park) • Best Songwriter: Plastic Jeezus • Special Award : Supporting Original Artists: The Three Compasses, Charminster, Dorchester • Best Recorded Work - Single: Opalites & Ayriss Sit Down & Shut Up • Best Recorded Work - Album: Nick Capaldi “You and All The Seasons” • Best Technical Support: Steve Smith - RMV Sounds • Best Promoter: James Choff -UMP Promotions • Best Original Music Venue: Tom Brown’s Dorchester • Best Backstage Crew: Hawkeye’s Crew • Best Festival: Barnstomper • Special Award- Brothers in Arms – winners: Fraser D, Jason Poole & Al Sirpico • Best Artist Under 18: The Current Flavour • Best Breakthrough Act: Burg and The Vagabond Choir • Special Award- The Alex JT: Brothers Grimmer Family • Special Award - Un-Sung Hero: Dave Allan • Lifetime Achievement Award: Pronghorn

Si Genaro

Brothers in Arms winners

Ethereal UK

• Best Live Act: Galaxy Thief • Best Solo Act: Nia Nicholls • Best Small Band: Opalites • Best Band: The Two Man Travelling Medicine Show

Ooh Betty! ‘Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em,’ based on Raymond Allen’s original TV series will be performed at the Tivoli Theatre by Wimborne Drama Productions. The play has been specifically written for stage. Betty has exciting news for Frank, but he’s preoccupied by possible newfound fame as a magician. With guests arriving for dinner and crossed wires all round, priceless misunderstandings are on the menu. The play runs from 21-24 February at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Box Office: 01202 885566 or book online: www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk. Pictured is James Bourner as Frank Spencer

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around & about

‘The Ghost Train’ pulls into Ferndown Take a journey back to the 1920s with Ferndown Drama when they present ‘The Ghost Train’ at the Barrington Theatre from 24–27 April. This comedy drama written by Arnold Ridley (Dad’s Army’s Private Godfrey), tells the story of a group of passengers stranded at a remote West Country railway station, facing the prospect of a night in the waiting room. But when the old stationmaster warns them about the phantom train that haunts the tracks after dark, they are subjected to one chilling moment after

another. This unnervingly hilarious thriller has a ghostly train, sudden deaths and a travelling parrot combined with a wet and stormy night which will keep the audience on the edge of their seats as the tension mounts, sometimes relieved by comical interludes. Performances are at 7.30pm each evening from Wed 24 April to Saturday 27 April, plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets are available from www. ticketsource.co.uk/ferndowndrama and are priced at £12.

Half Term Fun at the Museum of East Dorset, Wimborne Half Term is just around the corner, so bring your Little Explorers to a Star Wars & Galaxies themed craft morning on Tuesday 13 February. There is no need to book; just turn up between 10am and 1pm at the Tea Room entrance, next to Wimborne Library. Admission is £3.50 per child, and Annual Pass holders go free. On Wednesday 14 February, there will be a Star Wars themed clay workshop inspired by the current exhibition: May The Toys Be With You. This special workshop will be free as part of museum admission. There will even be a chance to have your photo

taken with a Storm Trooper for those big Star Wars fans! The museum itself is always a hive of activity, with 11 engaging galleries offering hands on interactives and activities to keep everyone entertained for hours. Further details on these events and to see what else is on offer, visit the website: museumofeastdorset.co.uk As a small local museum, all these events support fundraising efforts, with profits going towards the running of the museum. The museum and tearoom are open from 10am to 4pm, Monday to Saturday.

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Plans to save Christchurch splashpark Quomps Splashpark on Christchurch Quay, which faced closure, could be saved. BCP Council is working with Christchurch Town Council to plan for the ongoing operation of the much-loved attraction which features an enclosed splash park, paddling pool and water fountains. It has been owned and operated by BCP Council since 2019 but was originally built by Christchurch Borough

Council in 2010. BCP Council is working towards closing a £50m funding gap this year. James Atkinson, acting town clerk and responsible financial officer at Christchurch Town Council, said: “We are investigating how the splash park can be operated in a sustainable manner, so that this much-loved community asset can be enjoyed by future generations.” St Martin’s, a family-owned independent school in Bournemouth has been educating children in Stoke Wood Road since 1914. The school is keen to hear from former pupils and teachers, and local families who enjoy a connection with the school to help celebrate its 110th anniversary. Contact admissions manager Juliette Astrup on email at admissions@stmartinsschool. net. Pictured is Heather Davis, teaching assistant who discovered old school photos of her own children in the attic of the school.

Funds needed to secure Dorset Treasures Dorset Museum & Art Gallery is raising funds to keep two rare archaeological hoards in the county, both of which were found by metal detectors and declared Treasure. The first is a group of 40 gold stater Iron Age coins, found at Charlton Marshall valued at £15,300. The second

is a Middle Bronze Age hoard found in Stalbridge. If you would like to make a donation to one or both of the appeals, visit https:// www.dorsetmuseum.org/ charlton-marshall-gold-staterhoard-appeal/ or https:// www.dorsetmuseum.org/ stalbridge-middle-bronzeage-hoard-appeal/ or phone 01305 262735. You can also send a cheque payable to Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society, citing ‘Charlton Marshall appeal’ or ‘Stalbridge appeal’ in your covering note.

Poole Park gate closure trial The public are being asked to comment on the trial closure of the gates at the Whitecliff Road and Twemlow Avenue entrance of Poole Park, which is currently in effect, and are to be consulted about the possible permanent closure, with the closing date for comments of midnight on Tuesday 13 February. The trial will be in place until the results of the consultation and trial are evaluated. Other vehicle access and exit points and parking (including disabled parking) in the park are not affected by this proposal. The survey is live on the council’s ‘Have Your Say’ webpage at: haveyoursay.bcpcouncil.gov.uk. Paper copies of the questionnaire will also be available on request in any BCP Library.

More frequent buses to Bournemouth From 18 February people travelling by morebus from Wimborne to Bournemouth, will be able to catch a bus every 20 minutes, although Colehill passengers will see a reduced service. The number 13 will operate every 20 minutes but there will be a route number amendment with a 13 and 13a. There will be a new route for the 13. Towards Wimborne, there will be two buses per hour that will turn left from Canford Bottom into Hayes Lane and then right into Leigh Road. The original route that serves Colehill will be renumbered 13a and there will be only one bus per hour. Both the 13 and 13a will travel through Ferndown.

Local young people will benefit from funding of £85,000 this year thanks to funding from the Ferndown-based John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation. At their recent meeting the trustees selected 18 youth organisations for support in 2024. For more information about the work of the JTYAF please visit www.jtyaf.org. Pictured are JTYAF Charity trustees, ambassadors and their little mascot.

Middle Bronze Age rapier, a bangle and palstave axe head Bournemouth Lifeguard Corps will be leasing an upgraded training and educational facility situated on the Joseph Steps site beneath West Cliff ZigZag on Bournemouth’s seafront from 2025. The new headquarters will be constructed on the foundations of an existing structure which has become derelict. Construction is due to be completed by March 2025. For safety purposes, the site will be fenced off during the works. West Cliff Zig-Zag will remain open throughout and beach access will not be affected. For the full story visit www.dorsetview.co.uk

Selection of the Charlton Marshall Gold Stater Hoard

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in the home

Cut those energy bills With temperatures likely to plummet again, it’s important to ensure that you can make the maximum savings on your energy bill. The advice comes from an organisation called Fresh Student Living. • Turn off items such as your microwave that don’t need to be on standby.

Take a shower instead of a bath

• Turn off lights in rooms you are not using. • Switch to LED lights as they use 75% less energy than a regular bulb. • Wash laundry at 20 or 30 degrees rather than 40 degrees. • Tumble dryers use a lot of energy so invest in an airer. • Don’t wash up under a running tap. Use a bowl. • Opt for showers rather than baths – and cut down your showering time too.

HH Home Hut clothes airer £12.90 Amazon (special offer as at 15 Jan 2024)

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in the home / home is where the heart is .

Uplift your room with a wallpaper mural In light of Pantone’s announcement of its colour of the year, ‘Peach Fuzz’, creators of premium wallpaper murals, Wallsauce. com has released its top five designs that

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DORSET VIEW February 2024

complement this enriching colour. Focussing on Pantone’s description of ‘a velvety gentle peach whose allembracing spirit enriches mind, body, and heart', the wallpaper designs reflect the energy and confidence of this colour. Rachel Kenny, head of the design studio at Wallsauce.com says: “It’s a delight to see an uplifting tone that will bring us happy and warm vibes. With its warm shade, Peach Fuzz almost reminds us of wholesome summer days, kicking dandelions in fields! “We wanted to reflect that uplifting feeling with statement pieces that complement Peach Fuzz. Choosing wallpaper designs that merge in peach, blues, pinks and a hint of beige, we hope to have created a positive collection that’s also not for the faint-hearted.” Three of the top five designs are shown here, for the rest visit Wallsauce.com.

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Gas hob safety warning As a result of an investigation by the Office of Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) it was found that 12 UK gas hob manufacturers may have a fault in their gas hob elbow joints that could lead to a serious risk of poisoning, burns or gas explosion and/or fire. The following 12 manufacturers have committed to undertake a corrective action programme to make certain hobs safe. OPSS has asked the public to check whether their gas hob requires corrective action. The companies involved: Apelson Appliances UK Ltd, Buy It Direct Ltd, Glen Dimplex Home Appliances, Kingfisher International Products Ltd, Lancaster Holdings Ltd, Maurice Lay Distributors Ltd, Midea UK Ltd, Product Care Trading Ltd, Samsung Electronics, Shop Direct Home Shopping Ltd, Stax Trade Centres Ltd and The Wright Buy Ltd. They will visit every home containing affected hobs and make them safe. Information about the brands and models are available via the companies’ websites.

Help for lowincome households Support to help households tackle the rise in the cost of living and keep warm this winter is being made available to eligible residents in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP). Applications for the Household Support Fund, provided by the Department for Work and Pensions, are open until 5pm on 9 February 2024. Citizens Advice BCP will be giving out Household Support Fund grants on behalf of the council to provide support to help local low-income households struggling with food and energy bills. Visit https://www.bcpcouncil.gov.uk/communities/cost-of-living-help

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Stay leak-free this winter In addition to heavy rain, Dorset has seen some low temperatures and consequently Bournemouth Water is urging people to guard against frozen pipes and leaks. Water expands by nearly 10 per cent as it freezes and turns into ice, which stops the flow of water through pipes. This can cause even new pipes to split, often resulting in leaks and bursts causing flooding and damage. Richard Stanbrook, drinking water services director at Bournemouth Water said: “Our teams work incredibly hard every day, come rain or shine, to keep the taps flowing for our customers. Freezing conditions can make this much more challenging.” Some useful tips: • Wrap up pipes and water tanks with lagging – especially those in unheated areas such as lofts, garages or gardens • Fix dripping taps – a small trickle can result in a frozen pipe • Find your inside stop tap (usually under the kitchen sink or where

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the pipework enters your property) and make sure you can turn it off

by flushing the toilet and opening cold taps over sinks and baths

• Leave the heating on low if you go away

• If you don’t find any damage, turn on all the taps and thaw the frozen pipe using a warm towel or hot water bottle wrapped in a towel

• Check your central heating boiler has been serviced • Keep the contact details of a reputable plumber on hand What to do if you have frozen pipes: • If you don’t have any water, check with neighbours. If they still have water, your pipes may be frozen • Check pipes for signs of a split – a leak or burst will not occur until the water has thawed • Turn off the supply using the internal stop tap • If the central heating and other water heating appliances are already on, keep them on. However, if they are currently turned off do not be tempted to switch them on to thaw frozen pipes as this could cause damage • Drain the cold water system only

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• When the pipes have thawed and you’re sure no damage or leak has occurred, turn off the taps and slowly switch the supply back using the internal stop tap • Recheck the pipes now that they are under pressure and check again for signs of damage or a leak before switching on water heating appliances. If you discover a leak or burst pipe, call a reputable plumber immediately. Any big freeze is followed by a thaw which can cause interruptions to your water supply. Would you be able to access an alternative water supply during a disruption? If not, get in touch and sign up for Bournemouth Water’s Priority Services Register at: bournemouthwater. co.uk/advice-and-services/usefulinformation/priority-services/

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Pulford Publicity Ltd (“the Publisher”) reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertisement without notice or explanation. Whilst the Publisher will endeavour to represent the best interests of the client in undertaking client’s instructions, it is fully understood that it is the agreed responsibility of the client to supply Dorset View accurate copy details of the advertisement(s) to be placed and any alterations to the copy must be received prior to copy date. Guarantee of insertion cannot be given and the Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement or by the total or partial failure, however caused, of publication or distribution of Dorset View. In no case shall the total liability of the Publisher for any misprint, error or omission exceed the price charged by the Publisher for that advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable for any damage or loss save as stated and, in particular, the Publisher shall have no liability to the Advertiser in any circumstances for any claim for damages to, loss of, or costs in respect of any anticipated profits, revenues, business opportunities or for any other indirect or consequential loss. Claims for any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement must be made within 10 days of publication to the Administration Department. Advertisers are requested to check their advertisements after the first insertion. The Publisher will not be responsible for any errors on subsequent insertions, which have not been advised to them. Cancellation of an advertisement must be advised in writing 21 days prior to copy date. Unless agreed otherwise in writing by the Publisher the terms of payment for credit accounts are 10 days from date of invoice. Any discount, which the Publisher may have agreed with the advertiser will be forfeited in the event of failure by the advertiser to meet these credit terms. All rates quoted are subject to VAT at the current rate in force at the time the advertisement appears. Copyright of advertisements produced wholly by the Publisher belongs to the Publisher. Advertisers may not reproduce such advertisments without the Publisher’s written consent. Full details of copy dates are obtainable direct from Dorset View and/or its representatives. The placing of an order for an advertisment shall amount to acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

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CORRESPONDENCE To express your opinion or ideas about the community send your letters to letters@dorsetview.co.uk

NEWS IN BRIEF

Air ambulance gala dinner: Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) is to host its first-ever Gala Dinner on Saturday 23 March at The Crown Hotel in Blandford Forum, to celebrate its 24th year of saving lives across Dorset and Somerset. Tickets from www.dsairambulance.org.uk/Event/ gala-dinner-2024 Bridleway closed: an order to close temporarily a public bridleway in Three Legged Cross from 18 January for a period of 26 weeks could be extended if necessary with the approval of the Secretary of State for Transport. Bridleway E54/16 is closed from grid reference SU 08950 06089 to SU 08956 05583 due to a dangerous bridge in need of replacement. The Bournemouth University: University Hospitals Dorset partnership has appointed its first associate professor of nursing practice, Dr Lindsay Welch. She will be focusing on enabling clinicians to develop research through access to education, research awards and research infrastructure. Sign up for run: local people are invited to sign up for the 41st Bournemouth Bay Run which takes place on Sunday 24 March. Runners can participate in the Half Marathon or 10km events, while the 1km children’s race is always popular and fun. To participate go to https://bournemouthbayrun. co.uk/#halfmarathon.

The future of scarce urban farmland BCP Unitary Council has recently been reported as announcing worrying intentions concerning Highmoor Farm at Talbot Village, in a sensitive area on the boundary of Poole. It is appreciated that a recent “hybrid” (incomplete?) planning application to erect extensive buildings on the site was refused by the Planning Committee of the BCP Unitary Council and that some administrative issues have ensured the matter is now to be considered by The Planning Inspectorate on Tuesday 30 April. Our previous letter (objecting to the application) will be forwarded by the Council to the Inspector and it should be possible to submit some further representations which we, like others, are considering: details about all of the relevant processes and procedures are currently expected from the Council. The following basic views are confirmed: • The farm is a valuable and treasured local amenity (capable of enhancement) and, so far as we are aware, there is an adequate supply of employment land across the urban area. The suggestion that we should not rely on the airport (when it is in fairly close proximity to the university) appears to be fallacious. • We find it hard to accept that thousands of tons of concrete, poured into the diminishing open area of farmland and heathland concerned, will actually enhance bio-diversity. • We have little confidence in the predicted creation of around 9,000 jobs, arising from a speculative aspiration of “local technology transfer” from the university. We do advocate approval of the decision made by the Council’s Planning Committee since they obviously appreciated that, post Covid and to serve the public interest, some flawed aspects of the old Poole Local Plan should not be enforced. It is now known, flaws in systems require correction, not slavish enforcement irrespective of any damage generated. Gerald Rigler Chairman – Poole & Purbeck Group of Dorset CPRE (The Campaign to Protect Rural England) Home, Home on the Range! While on a cross country Rail journey in Canada last year I came across these posters in Jasper, Alberta, Canada. Our train had pulled into the station at Jasper for a refuelling stop and we were allowed to leave the train for an hour while this task was being carried out. The station buildings have heritage status and were prime examples of the 19th century architecture of the Canadian National Railway. These images were on display in the main hall of the building and it came as a great surprise to me when I read the address at the bottom of the posters. On return to the UK I looked for these premises in Dorchester and found they are now occupied (ironically) by a travel firm! I then began to wonder if there are families in and around Dorchester who had ancestors and relatives who took up the challenge and went to Canada on this scheme and if they are still in contact. The Homesteading scheme did in fact run right up till 1988 in Alberta Province. Sheila Chapman

Ringwood and Ferndown Ex-Tablers recently celebrated the 50-year anniversary of Ferndown Round Table by Ringwood Round Table, which was founded 10 years earlier. Pictured L-R, Derek Scott, chairman Ringwood Ex-Tablers, Steve James, national president Ex-Tablers clubs, Colin Agnew, chairman Ferndown Ex-Tablers and Ricard Dyson, national councillor for south west. please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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motoring / keeping you on the road.

Over 100 people arrested in Dorset’s drink/drug drive campaign Dorset Police’s Christmas campaign, which targeted people who drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, resulted in 113 arrests. The Christmas Drink and Drug Drive campaign ran between Friday 1 December 2023 and Monday 1 January 2024. During the campaign, Dorset Police arrested 113 people in connection with 127 suspected drink and drug driving offences during December, and some drivers were arrested on suspicion of both drink and drug-related offences. Of the 113 arrests, 71 people were arrested on suspicion of drink driving; 53 people on suspicion of drug driving and three further arrests were made for failing to provide a sample for analysis. The number of arrests made during the campaign had increased when compared to the same campaign period last year, when 85 arrests were made. Inspector Craig Tatton, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “While it is disappointing to see an increase in the number of suspected drink and drug drive related offences, I am pleased that our increased efforts to tackle those drivers has resulted in so many arrests and potential convictions. “Drink and drug driving is one of the main causes of deaths and serious injuries on roads in Dorset and the pain this causes to victims’ families is devastating, but entirely preventable.” If you suspect someone of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, please dial 999 immediately with the vehicle information and direction of travel. If you have information relating to someone who regularly drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol, please call 101 or fill in an intelligence form at: www.dorset.police.uk.

Young drivers putting off car repairs Inflation and the cost-of-living crisis are causing young drivers not to maintain their cars properly, risking their safety and that of other road users, research from the RAC has found. A quarter of young drivers aged 17-24 say they have put off necessary repairs to their cars to save money while nearly threein-10 are not servicing their vehicles as frequently as they should. Seventeen per cent also admit to taking the dangerous decision to avoid replacing their tyres. The research found that 69% of drivers surveyed found the cost of servicing and repairing their vehicles has risen in the past year. This figure rises dramatically to more than three-quarters of those under 25 which shows just how much of an impact rising prices are having on young drivers in particular. The South West has seen the most increase in the cost of servicing of cars in the past year. RAC Breakdown spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “It’s clear from the findings of our research that inflation and the costof-living crisis are causing drivers to cut back on car repairs, which will almost certainly lead to an overall reduction in the roadworthiness of vehicles using the roads. But the sheer extent to which younger drivers are being affected by rising prices is also a major cause for concern. Many will be in older, cheaper vehicles anyway meaning the risks of something going wrong if they don’t look after them properly could be higher than for the general driving population. “As a country we can ill afford to have more unroadworthy cars being driven. Last year, an average of five people were killed on our roads every day, a figure that hasn’t reduced significantly in years. It’s also the case that young drivers are much more likely to be involved in collisions – in fact, young men aged between 17 and 24 are four times more likely to be killed or seriously injured compared with all car drivers aged over 25.”

Additional road maintenance for BCP Council area People who have complained about road surfaces in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole will be pleased to hear that improvements are on the cards. BCP Council has been awarded an additional £604,000 in funding by the Government to maintain its roads, cycleways and footpaths. The money, provided by the Department for Transport (DfT), is intended to help facilitate resurfacing works, preserve structures such as bridges and maintain street lighting and other crucial highway assets. Cllr Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for Climate Response, Environment and Energy at BCP Council, said: “Whilst this does not give us strategic investment to improve our network, news of this additional funding allocation is helpful for our area and will support us in making further improvements to our highways that will directly benefit all road users. “We have completed several significant infrastructure projects in recent years, but, given the financial challenges the council faces as well as rising material costs, this additional allocation is welcomed.” The same additional sum of £604,000 will be allocated to BCP Council again for the 2024/25 financial year from the DfT.

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Dorset View February 2024

Articles inside

Naked Chocolate Valentine Cake

Café clubs fighting loneliness

Pets and Wildlife

Worrying death rate for new mothers

Empowered by... Herstories: A Celebration of Hilda Coles