Dorset View | February 2025

WIN tickets to see jazz star in Bournemouth

hosts Original Music Awards

Dear Readers!

The month of February often gets criticised for being too cold, too wet and too dark, but at least it’s short. It’s no-one’s favourite month.

Personally, I’m a big fan of February – the long, hard month of January is over, and spring is just around the corner. Everyone has relaxed after trying (and often failing) to follow their New Year’s Resolutions, and there is Valentine’s Day to look forward to – we have a pair of fascinating articles about Valentine’s Day on page 46.

Perhaps I am a bit biased about February, as my birthday falls in this month. I have no exciting plans for my birthday yet, except for an appointment with a physiotherapist about my dodgy knee. I’m sure there’s a metaphor there about my body falling apart as I get older!

Speaking of New Year’s Resolutions, I am (mostly) still sticking to mine to drink more water. I made my resolution SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound) by deciding that each day at work I would have a glass of water at my desk in the morning and afternoon. I think this habit is keeping me more hydrated, which is helping with my focus and reducing the temptation of fizzy drinks. Have you stuck with your resolution? Write in to let us know how you kept up your new habit.

We have a fantastic issue for you this month, including a fascinating interview with the comedian Omid Djalili, and a competition to win tickets to a show at the Bournemouth International Centre. I do hope you enjoy it. Thanks again for reading!

Luke Graham

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

DORSET VIEW

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‘Hawk-Eye’ the buzzard watches over Saxondale Gardens in Wimborne © Kathy Elias

Dorset rocks!

Awards ceremony celebrates the best of the county’s music scene

An annual red-carpet event set up to celebrate the county’s original music creators, promoters, and venues was held at Poole Lighthouse on Friday 17 January.

Now in its third year, the Original Music Awards (OMAs) are organised by the recording studio Hangover Hill belonging to Dorset’s ‘piano man’ Matt Black. Nominees are decided by an independent judging panel including reviewers, musicians, backstage crew, and more.

Among the winners were: Best Recorded Work (Video) for Nick Capaldi’s ‘Lovely People’, Best Small Band for the two-person synth/pop act Velour, and Best Band for rock group Mikey Ball & The Company. Special awards were also handed out to musicians to recognise their contributions to music.

The organisers said: “In the three years the OMAs have existed, musicians across Dorset have been motivated by their recognition and have been spurred on to writing, performing, and releasing more incredible music. Venues that held live music nights have increased their frequency after they’ve realised that it is what people are asking for, catering for the appetite they’ve seen from winners and nominees of the OMAs.”

February may be

grey

and cold, but at least it’s

-Advertisement feature-

short

By Paul Webb, Dorset Water Softeners

Welcome to February, the shortest month of the year. Never a great month, grey and cold, but suitably short.

Are you still following your New Year’s Resolutions, dear reader? Or are you like me, where good intentions have slipped by the by? My trousers are getting tighter and the running shoes are sat by the back door, like a pet desperate to go outside.

What to do? A lot of my customers have decided to stay healthier by making sure that they drink more water and cleaner water. It is so much easier than the gym.

Every day, you can read stories about PFAS, microplastics and sewage leaks from our water companies. Not great but dear reader, we do have a solution for you with our range of water filters and purifiers. Yes, we do offer water softeners to rid your home of limescale, but we also have drinking water solutions for homes and businesses.

If you visit many coffee shops and hotels in the county, the chances are you have used one of our devices. So, if you want to know more, give me a call and let’s taste some water and you can see what you have been missing.

Doing this for a living, my social media feeds are bombarded with every dodgy minor celebrity promoting some water filter that will transform your life, all for £99. Having bought many of these to test them, I am amazed that trading standards have not visited them. They all seem to be made in some far-off land where getting spares or replacement filters is not an option. I suppose every generation has their Ktel product — and if you get that reference, then you are as old as me.

So dear reader, as I sign off on this grey day, may I remind you of these wise words: “If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.”

Report and photos by Luke Graham

Poole Lighthouse was transformed for the ceremony

Christchurch band Galahad received a Lifetime Achievement Award

Matt Black, right, with award winner Dixie Dix Award winner Rainbow Lion Alex

Christmas in Bournemouth to get a shake up

A new operator is to take over the running of the Christmas events in Bournemouth town centre.

SKATE Bournemouth and Seventa Events have been awarded a five-year contract by BCP Council.

The two companies previously ran the Lower Gardens ice rink and the town centre market separately but have now joined forces to privately fund the festivities.

Cllr Richard Herrett, portfolio holder for Destination, Leisure, and Commercial Operations at BCP Council, said: “SKATE and Seventa have already helped us deliver unforgettable Christmas memories for millions of visitors over the last seven years and I am looking forward to seeing how they build on this success going forwards.”

Now teamed up as the Bournemouth Christmas Company, the enterprise has an ‘ambitious vision’ for Bournemouth’s Christmas offering, including a new interactive light trail in the Lower Gardens, an improved family-friendly ice rink layout, and an expanded market.

Paul Kinvig, CEO of Bournemouth Business Improvement District, said: “I welcome the announcement of this new operator, removing any uncertainty about the future of this important event in the life of the town centre.”

A reindeer from Bournemouth’s Christmas tree trail

Improvement works begin in Ferndown

Work began on 20 January to remove old, deteriorating planters, trees and benches from Victoria Road in Ferndown.

The current benches and planters are beyond repair. Sadly, the trees contained within the planters are also in decline, with many unlikely to survive.

Dorset Council, in partnership with Ferndown Town Council, will install new seating and planters later in the year.

The Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Terry Cordery, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for Victoria Road to be refreshed and for the people of Ferndown to have access to a more flexible environment which will bring benefits for many years to come.”

In January, Pulford Publicity’s managing director Ben Pulford, left, and creative director Louis Pulford, right, visited Dorset View’s Charity of the Year Dorset Cancer Care Foundation to meet Jannine Loveys and Jo Saunders to find out more about the amazing work the charity does and what fundraising activities are planned for 2025. One point of discussion was what fundraising challenge Louis could undertake this year, after skydiving in 2024. Among the suggestions were a wing walk on a plane and abseiling down a water tower! To find out more about the charity, turn to page 22.

Environmental group criticises housing targets

The local branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) has warned that proposed government housing targets could add over 100,000 residents to the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) conurbation.

This projection is based on a target of 44,370 new homes over 15 years. This is almost double the BCP Local Plan target of 24,000 new homes.

Dorset CPRE says that such development risks severe environmental damage, infrastructure overload, and unsustainable urban sprawl. It argues that BCP’s unique

environmental and infrastructural constraints justify a departure from the standard method of housing assessment. The current method relies on outdated population projections and does not account for BCP’s slower population growth trends.

The group claims this discrepancy creates unrealistic expectations that threaten to overwhelm the region’s ecosystems and infrastructure.

The key concerns of the CPRE are pollution in Poole Harbour, the protection of heathlands, flood risks in Mudeford and Poole Quay, and traffic congestion.

One of the planters in need of replacing on Victoria Road

Seafront bar wins bid to remain on the beach

A popular seafront bar and restaurant in Southbourne, Sobo Beach, has won planning permission to remain in its location until October 2026.

At a meeting in December, all 10 members of the Eastern BCP Planning Committee voted to extend Sobo Beach’s permission.

Sobo Beach was able to generate significant public support for the extension, with more than 1,300 people writing to the council in support of the planning application, including local Labour MP Tom Hayes, who described the committee’s decision as “fantastic news”.

Rich Slater, co-owner of Sobo Beach, said: “After a long period of waiting and compromising we’re glad to have finally got over the hurdle of planning permission, and look forward to carrying on at the site until 2026, bringing together the Sobo community on the seafront.

“We are also keenly aware that it took over 15 months to secure this temporary planning permission and given that the council has not got the resources to build a permanent solution on the site as planned, it’s imperative that work starts on a new plan for the future of Sobo Beach before too long.”

Bus works begin in Christchurch

Waiting for a bus is to be made more comfortable for Christchurch passengers.

Work began in early January to replace the existing stops along the High Street, with larger shelters, full-width seating including space for wheelchair users, and raised kerbs to allow easier access on and off the bus.

The shelters will be fitted with electronic displays to provide departure information, and CCTV footage will be live streamed directly to the council’s control room for passenger security.

Also, raised brick planters will be replaced with smaller pedestal planters, so that the pavement can be widened to provide more space for pedestrians and additional benches can be installed.

The improvements have been funded by BCP Council’s successful bid to the government for £8.9m to deliver the Bus Service Improvement Plan. Andrew Wickham, managing director at Morebus, said: “I’m pleased to see these latest improvements by BCP Council will benefit those travelling on our 1a, 1b, 1c, x1, x2, 24 and 33 buses through Christchurch.”

Bournemouth Community Church, pictured, has received a £9,000 grant to provide local families with food and to run a weekly Time For Tea community meal. The grant came from the BCP Food and Energy Support Fund, which distributed £275,000 to community groups providing food to residents.

Sobo Beach can remain in Soutbourne until October 2026 © ScottsMedia

law spot by Harold G Walker Solicitors

The law relating to cohabiting couples: Family law for unmarried couples and going to court

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By Rob Price, Associate, Family Law Solicitor

As cohabitees, there are useful court applications available for you to make, if the necessity arises, should negotiations after separation irretrievably break down for any reason or a nasty emergency crops up. We are more than equipped to represent you. The applications relate to your right to live in the home as well as sell it.

Domestic abuse

You can get a court to order that your partner is to stop using violence against you. The court even has the power to remove them from your home as a result. Violence comes in many forms, not just physical but emotional too. If the order is breached, the police can be involved immediately.

Primary carer of the children If you have a property together, you can ask the court to award you a sole

right to occupy with your children, until they are not dependent anymore.

Property

ownership issues

If your partner doesn’t agree about how you each own the property, you can apply to the court for an order that it must be sold and the proceeds divided as they should be.

Tenancies

Tenancy agreements may be in your joint names or in the name of your partner only. In certain circumstances, you can ask the court to have the tenancy transferred into your sole name.

If you’re affected by any of these issues, come and see us or call us to book a free initial half-hour discussion with one of our experts.

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

St Ives man jailed for firearms offences

A man from St Leonards and St Ives has been sent to prison for five years and three months for multiple firearms offences following a collaboration between police from Dorset and Cumbria.

Adam Harris, 54, was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on Monday 6 January after pleading guilty to multiple charges of possessing firearms without a licence.

Following information received by police, the defendant was arrested on Sunday 10 January 2021 in Cumbria. Officers searched Harris’s storage containers at Throop Mill in Bournemouth and seized several firearms including a Smith & Weston 44 Magnum revolver, two Glock pistols and a Beretta Tomcat-32 pistol.

Officers also found six rifles assembled from disassembled parts, a crossbow, a stun-gun, more disassembled gun parts and multiple rounds of ammunition.

Following forensic examination of the items, Harris was subsequently charged. The weapons and ammunition seized are to be forfeited.

Detective Constable Steven Davis, of BCP CID, said: “We take all incidents involving firearms and prohibited weapons extremely seriously in our continued efforts to keep the people of Dorset safe.

“Thanks to partnership working with Cumbria Police and the detailed investigation conducted by our officers, we were able to arrest and charge Harris as well as find and confiscate a large haul of highly dangerous firearms, weapons and ammunition.”

Ceremony room in Ferndown

Dorset families opt for new type of funeral service

An increasing number of families in Dorset are opting for less traditional funeral arrangements and instead choosing ceremony rooms, according to the managing director of Douch Family Funeral Directors.

The Dorset-based company has invested heavily in modern ceremony rooms at its branches in Ferndown, Parkstone, Blandford and Corfe Mullen. These rooms provide families with an affordable alternative to expensive crematorium services, allowing them to host personalised funerals and wakes in the same venue. They are designed to offer a cost-effective yet dignified way to say goodbye to loved ones.

Two of the branches also offer live streaming for those unable to attend.

Managing Director Nick Douch said: “Our seven branches are very much connected to a past that goes back more than a century –but as a family business we have always looked forward.

“The nature of funerals has changed and increasing numbers of people are opting for less traditional arrangements. The rooms are also community assets and we host bereavement groups and other meetings.

“At one time, services were held either in a church or crematorium, but now there are many options available and we have diversified to reflect that – particularly with our ceremony rooms.”

Eight trees have been planted in Braeside Glade, St Leonards to form a community orchard. Two cherry, two pear, two apple and two plum trees were planted with assistance from children from the local Little Learners nursery, residents and West Moors Parish Council groundsmen. Pictured are children from the nursery together with Cllr Barry Goring as they planted the first tree.

Free legacy planning event in Wimborne

Forest Holme Hospice Charity is holding a free ‘Legacy – Planning For The Future’ workshop on 20 February at The Orangery Suite in Merley House.

The workshop is open to anyone, whether you’re planning for yourself or supporting a loved one, offering an opportunity to gain valuable insights in a supportive environment, with talks on a whole host of subjects to help plan for a secure future including estate, advanced care and funeral planning, benefit entitlements, asset management and legacies.

Sponsored by Douch Family Funeral Directors, the event, runs from 9.30am until 3pm and includes free refreshments, buffet lunch and goodie bag.

Spaces for the free workshop are limited, so registration is required via this link: forestholmehospice.org.uk/events/life-legacy.

Make a difference

in 2025 with STARS

-Advertisement featureFounded as the East Dorset Rape Crisis Helpline in 1988 before changing its name in 2019 to Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services – Dorset Rape Crisis, STARS Dorset currently supports over 1,000 children and adults across the county.

The charity offers free, specialist, one-to-one support to anyone of any age or gender who lives, works, or studies in Dorset and has experienced any form of sexual violence at any time in their lives.

Its trauma-informed services include: a specialist team providing impartial advice and guidance about the criminal justice processes as well as support with reporting to the police and at court, group-work, and different counselling services providing short, medium and long-term therapy. There is also a dedicated team providing support to children and young people.

All these services are free, so fundraising is vital for STARS Dorset to continue providing them.

This year, STARS Dorset is asking supporters to take a leap of faith and skydive in aid of the charity. Registration is now open with a £50 deposit and a minimum sponsorship target of £495.

The STARS Jump is scheduled for September, and skydivers are invited to join this event or choose their own jump date at any time in 2025. To register, visit the website goskydive.com/charity/ stars-dorset.

To learn more about STARS or to self-refer, visit starsdorset. org or email info@starsdorset.org.

Bournemouth One radio announces expansion

Half a million people are now able to tune into the station via DAB

Bournemouth-based local radio station Bournemouth

One is saying hello to half a million potential listeners as it joins the DAB digital radio platform in Dorset just in time for its first birthday.

The station, which launched a year ago on New Year’s Day, has been granted a broadcasting licence from regulator Ofcom and is now available across Dorset on ‘proper’ radio. It’s a big step forward for the locally owned and operated company. Joining the county-wide DAB digital radio multiplex with six high-powered transmitters means anyone travelling around Dorset can listen in

their vehicles at the touch of a button anywhere from Christchurch to Dorchester, and still hear locally relevant news and information.

To celebrate 12 months of online streaming, the station gave away a smart speaker every day during December. Now it is looking forward to welcoming even more listeners around the area.

Co-founder Sophie Greenwood said: “Our first 12 months online has been so much fun, and so valuable in helping us welcome many loyal listeners, partners and advertisers to Bournemouth One.

“But even though we are now officially Ofcom licensed

to cover the whole county, we remain loyal to the local area and will continue to provide more real and relevant news bulletins, travel, what’s on and local information than all the other live or local stations combined.

“The future of radio is digital, and we’re proud to be at the forefront of changing listener habits as we continue to cover half a million people in the area, now with added DAB.”

Co-founder and CEO Roy Martin added: “Our Ofcom licence specifies we can officially super-serve the whole of BCP, plus our neighbouring towns of Wimborne, Ferndown, Verwood and Ringwood.

“And with traffic and travel

news every 20 minutes from morning till night, along with hourly what’s on information and weather, it’s the perfect listen on the road along with the best songs on the radio.

“It’s also fantastic news for any local businesses who want to target a local family audience, as the service is aimed at 30+ adults living and working locally.

“We’d like to thank all our partners so far and look forward to making new friends in 2025.”

Bournemouth One continues to stream online via BournemouthOne.com and on smart speakers. Just ask any smart device to “Play Bournemouth One”.

Mayor’s Musings

2026 could be a great year for Wimborne Minster 2025 has barely begun but we are already thinking about next year. The town council has been shortlisted to be the Dorset Town of Culture in 2026 and everyone is working hard to generate the full application. Our theme is ‘Bridging the Past and Future’, with a year-long programme of cultural activities and events, reflecting the interests of local people and visitors, including residents from the new housing areas.

We want to build on the town’s existing culture by working together to ensure greater diversity and inclusion. We are keen to leave a legacy after 2026 so that more people are engaged in culture — particularly those who, to date, have had little cultural experience.

We have so much heritage in the town and a wide range of arts-based activities. We are blessed with such venues as the Minster, the Tivoli, the Museum of East Dorset and the Allendale Centre, but we are keen to take the programme into the communities where people live. The new estates, for example, have little community space, but the arts can thrive outdoors and we plan to take culture to the people!

In our recent survey, people said there is little for young people on offer so, as well as the Town of Culture initiative, the town council is researching youth services and potentially a youth club location. One of our newer initiatives is establishing a school council at the Town Hall, and these school delegates are helping us to articulate the wishes and needs of youth.

New tanning lounge opens in Wimborne

-Advertisement feature-

Wimborne Tanning Lounge is the latest addition to Wimborne's vibrant beauty and wellness scene.

Offering two stand-up sunbeds plus top-brand tan accelerators, bronzers, moisturisers, creams and gels, the Wimborne Tanning Lounge are passionate about delivering exceptional tanning experiences.

The team are dedicated to providing a professional service, ensuring a warm welcome with expert guidance throughout. They pride themselves on their cutting-edge equipment and ensuring a fast but efficient service for customer satisfaction.

Whether you're looking to get a beautiful sun-kissed glow or maintain your tan all year round, the Wimborne Tanning Lounge is the ultimate destination for all your tanning needs.

Situated at Wimborne Barber Shop, 61 High Street, Wimborne. Opening hours are: Monday to Friday 8.30am-6.30pm and Saturday 8am-5pm.

Book online, by phone or just walk-in and get 50% off your first session plus your fifth session free.

PULFORD PUBLICITY sponsors WIMBORNE COMMUNITY GARDEN

A December to remember

By Jane Benson

Although Christmas may seem a distant memory now, at Wimborne Community Garden we did have a glorious festive season with so much going on.

We had a Forgetful Santa ‘treasure hunt’ round the town; 12 local independent shops generously offered to display in their beautifully decorated windows one different item each that the forgetful man in red had left behind. Youngsters then went round the town trying to locate these forgotten items in the hope that they might get all the answers right and gain a prize. Well, two lucky households did, and the prizes were duly delivered to

their door by none other than Santa himself. The expression on the children’s faces when they opened the door to him were absolutely priceless!

Then we had our own Christmas-lit walkway through part of the garden leading to Santa in his grotto. Children were delighted by Santa’s stories before being given gifts from two bright elves (Nicole Bennett and Florence Hampton). The whole experience was actually a very simple one, but had a touch of excitement about it so that families left feeling the magic of Christmas had begun.

We have Tails From The Woods and Wimborne Minster

Flip your way to sweet success on pancake day

Once again, Dorset View are sponsoring the Wimborne Minster Pancake Race which takes place on Shrove Tuesday 4 March.

The venue is, as always, outside the main north porch entrance to the Minster and the first race will commence at 11am as the Pancake Bell is tolled. Competitors will be required to run around the Minster tossing their pancakes at the four corners of the church.

All competitors should report to the north porch by 10.30am to enrol, complete with frying pan and ready-cooked pancake.

Challengers over 18 can win the John Loader Memorial Cup, presented by Martyn and Kathy Curtler, and become the Minster Pancake Champion 2025. The winner will also receive a prize presented by Dorset View

There will also be races for the under-18s spilt into three age ranges: four to nine, nine to 13, and 13 to

18. Likewise, there will be races for pre-schoolers, toddlers and those using wheelchairs, with prizes for the winners of each category. Entry forms will be available in the Minster and in the Parish Office in Church House (next to the Minster) during February or just turn up on the day.

Council to thank for their generous support with this, as well as Sandi Cooke and Martyn Curtler who worked tirelessly throughout.

On 18 December, we followed Santa’s visit with carol singing. Although the weather wasn’t very cooperative, we sang our hearts out and banished the cold and rain with our voices and with the help of the wonderful Purple Parrots steel drum band. A little rain wasn’t going to stop us!

So now we’re into 2025 and excited about what the new

year has in store for the garden. Our kitchen is developing well, the pergola is getting roofed with donated re-claimed slates, and we are raring to get going again. Hold on to your hats and your wellies.

Santa with the winners of the treasure hunt

A contestant from the 2022 Pancake Race

Basketball tournament in Poole to raise funds for Kenya expedition

Jacek Zralka, a 15-year-old pupil at St Edward’s School in Poole, is hosting a 3x3 basketball tournament in February to raise funds for a four-week long volunteering expedition in Kenya with Camps International.

Being held at the school in Dale Valley Road on Tuesday 18 February from 10am–5pm, the event is open to players aged 12–15 and promises a day full of fun, competition, and community spirit.

There are 64 spaces available in the tournament, and the admission fee is £5 per person. Teams require a minimum of three players, and there are prizes worth £50 for the top three teams.

Together with a group of secondary school students from all over the UK, Jacek will be helping local communities in rural Kenya with environmental

projects such as building elephant deterrent fences for the local Maasai community, planting trees, de-worming animals, and even making paper out of elephant dung.

If you would like to help fund this expedition, visit gofundme. com/f/volunteering-in-kenyaexpedition. To register for the tournament, visit https://forms. gle/c1pZvbwk7WJadQB8A.

Students at a Christchurch school enjoyed tasty lessons about eating healthily and preparing food thanks to the Christchurch Food Festival Education Trust (CFFET).

The charity, which advances education in food and nutrition, began its annual primary school cookery days in January with a visit to Twynham Primary School. CFFET will deliver 10 more cookery days in local primary schools over the next three months, helping hundreds of local children learn about what they eat.

Children in years 4 and 5 at Twynham Primary School were shown how to make gluten-free pancakes, a Mediterranean chickpea stew and yakisoba and were able to taste the results. They also received a CFFET booklet full of healthy eating information, activities,

Food fun in Ferndown Creative cookery in Christchurch

Cookery was on the menu for children in Ferndown with special educational needs and disabilities when they took part in classes at The Centre on Barns Road in December.

Local Alliance Groups (LAG) funding supported the delivery of five engaging sessions for 10–15 children aged between five and 13.

During the sessions, children had the chance to make afternoon tea, cook pizzas, and bake cupcakes. Each child was provided with aprons, chef hats, and bowls to take home, encouraging them to continue practising their new skills.

The sessions were led by a parent who understands

Twynham Primary School students learned all about food

and recipes to try at home.

CFFET trustee and education co-ordinator, Mary Reader, said: “We have been working in schools since the first Christchurch Food and Wine Festival in 2000, apart from the pandemic, to provide healthy eating information to Christchurch children.

“We hope that in doing so, they learn how to prepare some healthy meals and taste things they might not otherwise have tried. Importantly, they then take this information home.”

CFFET’s primary school outreach work costs around £7,000 annually, and the Trust relies upon donations and fundraising. To find out more about the trust, visit cffet.org.uk.

the unique challenges faced by families of children with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities).

Nicky Hornsby, manager at The Centre in Ferndown, said: “Following discussions with parents of children who have SEND, it became clear that there were limited activities available during the holidays for children over the age of five and under 12.

“Seeing the pride the children take in their work and the joy it brings to families makes this programme so important.”

Due to increasing demand, sessions for children without additional needs will also be introduced this year.

Eight tips for choosing an early learning provider

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Finding high-quality early years education can be a difficult task. There is a lot to consider if you want to make the right choice for your child and for your family, especially since a child’s experiences in their first five years have such an enduring impact on future outcomes.

Early education, encompassing trusting relationships, purposeful interactions, high-quality

experiences, and consistent learning routines, affects a child’s short-term development and school readiness and, more crucially, their future achievements in primary and secondary school and beyond. To help you choose the right provider for your child, here are eight things to look for:

1. Strong effective leadership and management: Leadership that fosters a positive culture and prioritises the professional development of its staff.

2. Engaging learning environments: Stimulating and well-resourced, playbased learning environments, where children can explore and engage in purposeful indoor and outdoor play.

3. High-quality teaching: Skilled practitioners, who adapt their approach to meet the individual needs and interests of each child.

4. Quality interactions and effective communication: Teachers and children share positive interactions that promote language and communication skills through rich and varied activities.

5. Language and communication development: Does the provider have strategies to develop children’s speaking, listening, and early literacy skills in a language-rich environment, and promote storytelling and support language acquisition for children with English as an additional language?

6. Inclusive practice: A diverse environment that respects cultural differences and ensures equal access to learning opportunities.

7. Positive partnership with parents and carers: Strong partnerships with parents, involving them in their child’s learning and development.

8. Effective safeguarding: Robust safeguarding policies and procedures that ensure the welfare and safety of children.

Choosing the right environment is crucial, and a visit to the setting will help you to make this important decision. At Talbot House School, the nursery and reception class are an intrinsic part of the school, receiving the full benefits of an independent education including weekly lessons in French and music delivered by specialist teachers and a comprehensive Outdoor Learning programme.

The headmistress, Tracey Wilson, works closely with each individual child and their family, providing the support they need for the next stage. You can book a personalised tour with her upon request, or you can register for our next OPEN MORNING on Friday 14 March at 9.30am–11.30am.

The Christchurch Living Advent Calendar (CLAC) was a huge success in December, raising over £22,000 for two dozen local charities.

‘Steel signing’ for Dorset mental health facilities Christmas CLAC success

Organised by Christchurch Rotary Club and supported by Christchurch Town Council and BCP Council, the CLAC was a series of 24 music performances by local talent, with one performance each day in the buildup to Christmas.

The grand total raised by the CLAC since its inception four years ago now stands at over £84,000.

CLAC organiser Jan Banks said: “CLAC continues to go from strength to strength each year. My thanks to all the individuals and businesses who gave so freely and generously of their time, use of facilities and financial support for the fourth consecutive year. Also, to the community who turned out in all weathers to support each evening. Christchurch certainly has a wonderful community spirit.”

To celebrate its 25th anniversary, X-Press Legal Services Dorset has made a big donation to a local charity. The company, which provides support to solicitors and conveyancers, gave £500 to Amelia’s Rainbow, which supports children with a disability or a serious, chronic, or terminal illness.

Mental health facilities in Dorset are to be enhanced significantly in the future.

A ‘steel signing’ ceremony held late last year marked a major milestone on two building schemes for services for Dorset residents struggling with severe mental health issues.

The event celebrated the final steel beam being put in place on new inpatient facilities under construction in Bournemouth and Poole, run by Dorset HealthCare and funded by the government’s New Hospitals Programme.

The first project will see the creation of an eight-bed high psychiatric intensive care unit (PICU) for children and young people at Pebble Lodge in Alumhurst Road, Bournemouth.

The second development, at St Ann’s Hospital in Sandbanks will provide a replacement adult PICU alongside additional adult mental health inpatient beds with improved accommodation to ensure all patients have their own rooms, and a new ‘place of safety’ suite for patients detained under the Mental Health Act.

Dorset HealthCare was allocated more than £70m for the new facilities, which are being built by Kier Construction and are on course to open in 2026.

L-R: Paul Williams, Dorset HealthCare’s head of capital delivery, Morad Margoum, Dorset HealthCare’s service director, Cheryl Parsons from Kier Construction and Darren Crook delivery director for the New Hospitals Programme

Care home resident’s life story captured in new book

Last issue, Dorset View reported on a Wimborne care home resident who was honoured for completing 60 years of service with the Royal Voluntary Service.

Now, her contributions to Britain’s war efforts have been recognised in

a new history book.

Gwen Raggett, a resident of Hyacinth House Care Home in Stapehill, was a member of the Women’s Land Army during the Second World War. Her story has been captured in ‘Don’t Delay, Enrol Today: The Women’s Land

Gwen and daughterin-law, Heather, with a scrapbook about her Land Army days

Army in Hampshire’, written by social historian John K Lander.

With over 30 published works on social history and non-conformist church subjects, Lander personally visited Raggett to discuss her experiences. He recently presented her with a copy of the published book.

Raggett’s wartime service has appeared in print before in ‘The Remarkable Women of the Second World War’ by Victoria Panton Bacon.

To celebrate her legacy, Hyacinth House invited Raggett to be the guest speaker for their December Speaker’s Corner event. During this special occasion, she shared memories of her time in the Land Army, reflecting on the challenging but rewarding work, the friendships

she formed, and the significance of her role during the war.

Raggett’s daughterin-law, Heather, helped to bring history to life by bringing along a meticulously curated scrapbook which included original newspaper advertisements recruiting women for the Land Army, receipts, photographs, and even a delicate cotton dolly crafted by the Land Army women.

The care home’s General Manager Kamila Gagala said: “Hyacinth House warmly celebrates Gwen and all its residents who generously share their incredible stories, enriching the community with moments of living history. Gwen, in particular, has become quite the celebrity!” Hyacinth House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare.

Charity of the Year

Get out and volunteer in 2025

By Jannine Loveys, fundraising manager at DCCF

If you are looking to get into volunteering or to do some kind of fundraising this year, please ‘choose local’ and help Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF) to support Dorset families struggling because of cancer.

Volunteering is essential to our work, without it we wouldn’t be able to raise the money needed to fund grants for people when they need it most – and we’re extremely grateful to anyone who donates their time to us. Whether minutes, months, hours or days, the time you give really does make a difference.

Volunteers are always needed before and during our popular local, monthly Coffee Mornings. You could sell raffle tickets, collect entrance money, or make cakes beforehand.

Our regular quiz nights, curry evenings, bowling and musical events also rely on the help of our amazing volunteers.

Our volunteers tell us that they gain real enjoyment from knowing they

are helping struggling local families. Many also make lasting friendships as part of the DCCF family.

If you’d rather help by fundraising, you could hold a DineIn event and sell tickets to friends to attend your dinner party or picnic?

Or if you like to run, we will pay for your registration into any of the Run Bournemouth events in return for your sponsorship. Or you could enter another sporting event on our behalf?

Attending DCCF events is also a great way to support us.

Our next Coffee Morning is on 12 February from 10am–12noon at The Angel Inn in Ferndown. Entry is £6 and includes a hot drink and cake.

If you can’t join us, please consider donating to what will be our most adventurous fundraising event to date when Chris Helberg and Chris Bryer-Ash run seven marathons in seven days across Dorset between 10–16 March.

You can donate to their £20,000 fundraising target at justgiving.com/page/ super-seven-dccf. You could even help by organising a coffee morning in their honour, or simply going to cheer them on!  Please get in touch to get involved with the DCCF in 2025. For more information, call Penny on  07849 249250 or visit dccf.co.uk.

Chris Bryer-Ash, left, and Chris Helberg plan to run seven marathons in seven days for charity

Give a dog a home

Could you give one of these dogs a fresh start in 2025? Waggy Tails Rescue is a registered charity based in Dorset which rescues and rehomes dogs that have been abandoned, neglected or are otherwise in need of a new home.

As well as dogs, the shelter takes care of other furry friends including rabbits and guinea pigs. Pictured on this page are just some of the rescue centre’s animals that are looking to be rehomed.

To meet a potential pet in person, Waggy Tails is hosting dog presentations on Saturday 15 February and Saturday 15 March at Kinson Community Centre, Pelhams Park, Millhams Road, BH10 7LH. Please arrive by 1.45pm for a 2pm start.

To find out more about Waggy Tails and to enquire about one of the dogs or small furry animals pictured here, contact the animal shelter on 01202 875000 or visit waggytails.org.uk.

Pulford Publicity has supported Waggy Tails Rescue with a regular feature like this for the last 20 years and is pleased to enable this free publicity through the kind support of the sponsors on these pages.

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Beware of illegal money lenders

By Dorset Council Trading Standards

The high cost of living means that many people are in debt after the Christmas period. While most will use credit cards or other official methods, some will risk taking cash from loan sharks who lend money illegally.

If you can answer yes to one or more of these questions you might be borrowing from a loan shark:

• Did they offer you a cash loan?

• Did they not give you paperwork?

• Did they add huge amounts of interest or APR to your loan?

• Have they threatened you?

• Are you scared of people finding out?

• Have they taken your bank card, benefit card, passport, watch or other valuables from you?

Illegal lenders may appear to be a friend offering a favour, but they often target people in vulnerable circumstances. The fact that they are unauthorised means borrowers are left with no protection when it comes to repaying the loan.

In November, a joint Trading Standards and England Illegal Money Lending Team investigation led to the prosecution of a 47-year-old woman who was money lending in the Exeter area. She had been lending money illegally through 110 loans while working as a professional carer.

Anyone who has been affected by illegal money lending should call the Stop Loan Sharks 24/7 confidential helpline on 0300 555 2222 or access support online at www.stoploansharks. co.uk. Live Chat is available on the website from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Citizens Advice can help too with debt and money advice. They can provide information to help you make the right choices, including help to deal with your debt problems, how to avoid losing your home and how to get your finances back into shape. Visit www.citizensadvice. org.uk/debt-and-money or contact your local Citizens Advice office.

Five tips for your finances

If you’re feeling a financial pinch after Christmas, here are some steps to get you back on track

The festive period can be fun, but also expensive. To help people rebuild their finances, the free debt advice charity Christians Against Poverty (CAP) launched its “Budget Not Blues” campaign in January. The campaign aims to give people a clear path to taking back control of their money.

Dick Howard from Dorchester Baptist Church has been a CAPtrained money coach for the past six years, offering free advice, support and coaching to people struggling with their finances. In that time, nearly 250 people have completed a free money coaching course with Howard.

He said: “Winter often brings financial anxieties, and with energy bills and prices continuing to rise, the pressure all adds up.

“We are determined to help people in our local community improve their finances and we do this by offering free money coaching.”

Here are Howard’s recommendations for improving your finances in 2025:

1. Create a personal budget: A budget is key to understanding your incomings, outgoings and overall financial situation to make positive changes. You can download free budgeting guides online; try the CAP’s guide on capuk.org/ budgeting.

2. Cut back, cut costs and cut out: To make your money go further, look to reduce spending by cutting back (reducing how much or how often you buy something), by cutting the

cost (finding a product cheaper elsewhere, switching to a cheaper brand, or changing to a cheaper bill provider), or by cutting the spending out completely (try to identify whether the things you buy are a ‘want’ or a ‘need’).

3. Build up an emergency fund: It’s important to save for future emergencies. Start small so that it is manageable within your budget. Set up a monthly automatic transfer from your bank account to a savings account so that you’re not tempted to spend it. An emergency fund can offer peace of mind if and when unexpected costs arise.

4. Find out your financial personality: The CAP’s website has a money personality quiz which is designed to help you better understand your relationship with money and your spending habits, and offers tips based on your personality type. Give it a try at: capuk.org/moneypersonality-quiz.

5. Seek free help: Check your local area to see if help is available to further improve your financial situation. Look at the websites for Dorset and BCP Council, Citizens Advice, or the government’s Money Helper site. You could visit capuk.org/help to find out more information on free services provided by CAP in your area. CAP also operates a free helpline for those struggling with unmanageable debt. Just call 0800 328 0006.

Meet the TV archaeologist inspiring study of the past

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Julian Richards admits that history lessons at his school failed to impress him and yet he went on to become a professional archaeologist and presenter of TV programmes such as ‘Meet the Ancestors’, ‘Blood of the Vikings’, ‘Timewatch’ and ‘Building Wonders’, as well as programmes on Radio 4. Julian, who lives in Dorset and will be presenting a talk on ‘A Potted History of Britain’ at an East Dorset Heritage Trust presentation at Allendale House in Wimborne in April, said: “At school, I found it was all about kings and queens and was quite boring. I was curious as a child and interested in stories of ordinary people and objects of the past.

“I was not a model pupil. I was fairly bright and got a scholarship to a good school, but it wasn’t the right one for me. I left with terrible A levels.”

“If we understand the past, it helps us to understand the present”

Julian’s Eureka moment

Born in Nottingham, Julian went to the local museum to get work after leaving school.

“I ended up on a dig and it was a Eureka moment. We were finding pottery from 800 years ago and suddenly history came alive. Objects tell stories.”

Subsequently, he managed to get a place at Reading University and in 1975 embarked on a career as a professional archaeologist.

It was whilst working for the Berkshire Archaeological Unit that Julian had his first encounter with human burials. This sowed the seeds for the TV series ‘Meet the Ancestors’ 25 years later, a programme which ran for seven years.

The mysteries of Stonehenge

He moved to Salisbury in 1980 and spent the next decade running the Stonehenge Environs Project.

“I have been involved with Stonehenge for 45 years, and I must say I get fed up with endless documentation from people who say they have solved its mystery. There is not one single meaning. Things have changed over time.”

Julian has however made a series of documentaries about the iconic landmark which are available on YouTube, as well

as writing four books on the subject. Why archaeology remains so relevant Julian enjoys working with primary school children and inspiring them and has delivered history and archaeology projects to numerous schools in Dorset and Wiltshire.

What would he say to someone who said they thought archaeology was irrelevant to the 21st century?

“If we understand the past, it helps us to understand the present and look to the future,” he said. “It also helps us to understand environmental issues.”

An excitement for anyone on a dig is to be the first person to touch something that no-one else has held for hundreds or thousands of years.

“The oldest thing I have dug up is a piece of flint that no-one had handled for 8,000 years. It made me think about what the world would have been like then.”

When Julian attended York Festival of Ideas last year, he was able to touch a stone tool that dated back two million years.

“I have never regretted my choice of career all those years ago and continue to find the past both near and distant a fascinating place to explore,” he said.

Julian Richards has been involved with Stonehenge for 45 years

What an eyesore

by Luke Graham

Oakdale residents remain disappointed with the lack of progress in redeveloping a dilapidated building

Once upon a time, the building on the corner of Dorchester Road and Wimborne Road in Oakdale, Poole, was a bustling school and thriving learning centre, situated in the heart of the Oakdale community. Many local people went there or had family who had attended it.

Spread across two neighbouring sites as Oakdale Adult Education Centre, many people attended courses here to acquire skills that helped them land jobs in the local area. There’s even a mural on one of the walls by the Dorset-based artist Kizzi B Creative.

In November 2020, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council decided to relocate the education centre to The Dolphin in Poole and turn the existing building into extra-care housing, designed to provide living spaces for residents who need domestic support.

But more than four years on, the space remains undeveloped. The site has become overgrown with weeds, windows have been smashed and boarded up, and residents have grown frustrated with the lack of progress.

In September 2023, BCP Council said the site has become a target for anti-social behaviour (ASB) and vandalism, and that it had submitted plans to demolish the two nearby portacabins once used to train hair stylists. A year later and the portacabins remain up.

Dorset View asked the council about its plans for the site, but BCP could not confirm a timetable for the redevelopment. Councillor Kieron Wilson, portfolio holder for Housing and Regulatory Services said: “Plans for extra care housing at Oakdale are

progressing, and this project will provide a significant number of self-contained homes for vulnerable and ageing residents; offering care and support on site and helping people to live independently for as long as possible.

“We are awaiting formal advice from the council’s planning department, and once received we will look to engage with the local community around the proposed design for this site.”

There are some obvious reasons for the delay, such as lockdown, Covid, and the budget review crisis that halted many projects across the BCP conurbation, but there remains a clear lack of any obvious momentum.

Meanwhile, residents are divided over the current plans for the extracase housing. While many recognise the need for social care spaces across the council, residents have expressed their concern that Oakdale currently lacks a community hub and that they hope the plans will address this need by including a publicly bookable space.

“The building is in the heart of Oakdale,” said resident Jill Cockwell. “There is an opportunity to build a community facility on the site to benefit all. Oakdale is lacking in any sort of hub.

“When will the council look to the future and improve the lives of the residents?”

Resident Steve Hayes said he was “very disappointed but not surprised at the lack of any visible actual progress and communication from BCP on this wastingaway, costly to keep secure asset.”

With residents remaining disappointed with the lack of progress, and the council seemingly unable to make headway, the site continues to deteriorate.

PREVIEW Steptoe & Son Live

Cattle Productions, Tivoli Theatre

The sitcom classic ‘Steptoe & Son’ is to be brought back to life on the stage of Wimborne’s Tivoli Theatre

Cattle Productions will recreate four episodes of the show about the pair of rag-and-bone men: the coarse and dirty Albert Steptoe and his pretentious, pompous son Harold.

Director Dan Lewis is a huge fan of the vintage comedy. He said: “I think it’s nice to introduce the older material to a newer audience, but it’s also nice for the older generations to revisit memories and take a nostalgic trip down memory lane.”

During their tour of over 40 performances across the UK and Republic of Ireland, the company are donating a portion of ticket sales to charity.

“We donate a lot of money to charity with our performances and the more people that buy tickets, the more money we can give,” added Lewis. ‘So far, we’ve managed to donate over £15,000.”

Cattle Productions donate to a charity local to the venue where they are performing. For their Wimborne show, they’ve chosen MS Centre Dorset.

‘Steptoe & Son Live’ will be performed on Friday 7 March. Tickets cost £20 and can be booked via the Tivoli website or box office.

Time to ready, steady, cook in Poole

Report and photos by Luke

Graham

A cookery school has relocated from a barn in Lytchett Minster to the middle of Poole High Street.

WhitePepper Chef Academy has taught cooking skills and trained professional chefs since 2010. It has relocated at 89 High Street, Poole, in the unit which previously housed Barque bar and On the Roxx nightclub.

The new location officially opened to students on Monday 13 January, with a launch party held on Saturday 11 January. Luke Stuart, owner and culinary director of the school, said: “Our new location at Poole High Street has numerous advantages including better access and a more varied student life. It’s also a more central hub for our weekly pop-up lunches, Saturday courses, private parties and events.

“We are hugely excited to consider a wider community offering which will likely include corporate entertainment, parent and child cookery, youth competitions and more.”

Parents get ‘en pointe’ to pass ballet exams

A set of parents undertook ballet lessons to raise funds for their children to dance at Disneyland Paris.

Last year, students from Dorset-based Footlight Performance Academy received the exciting news that they had been offered a spot to perform at Disneyland after submitting an audition.

To help fund the trip, a group of parents agreed to a role reversal and took part in six weeks of intense ballet training with the help of the teachers at Footlight and tuition from their children at home. On Sunday 12 January, the 10 parents passed their Grade 1 exam.

Footlight Principal Leanne Dade said: “The event was absolutely amazing. We raised an amazing £1,000 in the end.”

To donate to the sponsored ballet challenge and help the students get to Disneyland, visit justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ fpa-disney.

A portion of the show’s tickets sales will be donated to MS Centre Dorset © Rock.the.lens

The parents post-exam © Footlight Performance Academy

A tomato and pepper tartlet served to guests at the launch party

Owner Luke Stuart, right

The new kitchen area ready for students

Head Chef James Palmer-Snellin, left, and Fred Fumpston

An unusual addition to Poole High Street Dinner and entertainment

Jazz icon swings into Bournemouth

Gregory Porter, the internationally acclaimed jazz and soul singer, is performing at Bournemouth International Centre for one night only on Wednesday 14 May as part of his tour of the UK.

Porter is a Grammy Award-winning musician whose voice has been described as “liquid gold”. His unique blend of jazz, soul, and gospel has earned him critical acclaim and global success. He also performed for Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on multiple occasions, including during her Platinum Jubilee celebrations. For a night of quality jazz entertainment, tickets are from £52.25 and are available at bic.co.uk.

PREVIEW

Worst Wedding Ever

Wimborne Drama Productions, Tivoli Theatre

A comedy drama about a wedding, written by ‘Broadchurch’ creator Chris Chibnall, is sure to lift the spirits this winter.

‘Worst Wedding Ever’ is set in Dorset, where Chris Chibnall has lived for the past 20 years, and is about a couple called Rachel and Scott who are getting married. They are also buying a house together – never the easiest of things to do at the same time. When the house price goes up, their plans for a dream wedding are downsized to the local registry office.

But Rachel’s mother has other ideas. What if the family could make it a wedding to be proud of? With a marquee in the back garden, a hand-me-down dress, a pub band and two Portaloos, surely the day will pass without a hitch?

The play will be performed by Wimborne Drama Productions at the Tivoli Theatre from 20 to 22 February and is directed by Tracey Nicholls. In her cast are Jo Eva Edington, Rob Cording-Cook, Tracie Billington-Beardsley, Gary Paine, David Beddard-Banks, Michelle Barter, Tony Feltham and Calum Hearne.

To book tickets, call the box office on 01202 885566 or visit tivoliwimborne.co.uk.

PREVIEW

COMPETITION

Dorset View has partnered with BH Live to offer you the chance to win a pair of tickets to see Gregory Porter on Wednesday 14 May.

To enter the competition, answer the following question:

What has Gregory Porter’s

voice been described as?

Enter online at www.dorsetview.co.uk. Closing date is Monday 31 March 2025. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd are not permitted to enter. Entrants must be aged 18+. There is no cash alternative, and the prize cannot be exchanged or redeemed against an existing booking. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner. The winner will be announced in the magazine. The winner’s name, email address and phone number will be passed to BH Live for the purpose of allocating the prize.

Competition winner

In December, we ran a competition offering readers a free copy of Christchurch-based author Becca Perl’s debut book, ‘Don’t Look Back’.

Our competition received over 200 entries, and the eventual winner of the children’s book was Sue Berwick. A copy of ‘Don’t Look Back’ was posted to Sue by publishers The Book Guild. Well done, Sue!

The Killing of Sister George

Bournemouth Little Theatre, Winton

Bournemouth Little Theatre Club will perform this cult classic in early February. ‘The Killing of Sister George’ is a scathing and hilarious examination of the public and private lives of so-called cultural icons.

Written by Frank Marcus, the play is set in the early 1960s. Sister George is a beloved character on the popular radio show, ‘Applehurst’, a saintly district nurse who rides around on a bicycle, singing hymns.

In real life, actress June Buckridge (nicknamed George) is the opposite of the character she plays.  She is a foul-mouthed, outrageous, controlling woman, who lives with the long-suffering Alice ‘Childie’ McNaught.

But June’s life spirals into a meltdown when she finds out that, due to a fall in ratings, cutbacks and her own bad behaviour, Sister George is scheduled to be killed off.

Performances are at 7.45pm every evening from Tuesday 4 February to Saturday 8 February. Tickets cost from £8 to £14 plus booking fee. Book via bournemouthlittletheatre.co.uk.

St George’s Church in Damerham invites you to its annual snowdrop weekend on 8–9 February. Come and see these beautiful flowers growing naturally in the Norman churchyard. Doors open from 10am to 4pm. Homemade refreshments will be available, as well as stalls selling books, produce and bric-a-brac. © CatchBox

© Ami Sioux

OMID DJALILI

gets angry

The stand-up comedian brings his world tour to Wimborne in March

Best known for his work in movies such as ‘The Mummy’, ‘The Infidel’, and ‘Journey To Bethlehem’, the British-born actor and comedian Omid Djalili is bringing his standup show ‘Namaste’ to the Tivoli on Saturday 1 March. The self-proclaimed Persian Comedy Powerhouse has been touring the show around the world since May 2024 and has performed in New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, and the USA so far. Namaste is typically associated with peace and tranquillity, but the word –which comes from Sanskrit – literally means “bowing to you”. And with everything going on in the world, from pollution to terrorism to global instability, Djalili has decided to eschew tranquillity and bow to his inner anger. In ‘Namaste’, the comedian controls that rage and unleashes a torrent of comedic vitriol upon the current state of the planet. Below, Djalili reveals more about the show and his thoughts on the comedy scene.

Can you explain a bit more about your new show?

Well, I’ve always tried to be nice about people but this time I can’t. The world is in such a terrible state. At the end of the day, the whole purpose of comedy is not just making people laugh. That’s not the end game. When you talk about the means to an end, the means is comedy but the end is to actually make sense of what’s going on. And because I’m from the Middle East, I feel I do have some answers.

People come to me as some kind of bridge, like a cultural stopgap, as someone to spread light on things. People don’t get what’s going on. They don’t get the connection between Iran and what’s going on in Gaza, they don’t get what’s going on with Joe Biden attacking Syria and Iraq. It’s me trying to use comedy to make it more palatable for a British audience to understand what’s going on. So I’ve put my hat in the ring. So, it’s a more considered, rational response, rather than simply being angry? Yeah, the tour poster is a picture of me with steam coming out of my ears. I’m angry but it’s a controlled anger and it’s considered. Audiences are really appreciative of that. So many people want to hang around afterwards. They say “thank you,” not “Oh mate, that was hilarious.” It’s making sense of things. You give them a glimmer so people have some sort of handle on the situation. What do you think of cancel culture?

Cancel culture is a real thing. We’re always on the edge of being cancelled. We’re one joke away from having a TV series taken away or being kicked off a film. But I feel I’m old enough not to care anymore. I’ve been watching people like Seann Walsh and Louis CK and I kind of wish that I was cancelled, because they reach a level in their comedy where they just don’t care. Seann Walsh was this wideeyed young guy doing ‘Strictly’ and didn’t realise he was going to be so pilloried in the press. It’s given him a kind of ‘I don’t

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

care anymore’ attitude. It’s a release. Nothing can get worse and you’ve nothing to lose. And that’s when people are at their funniest. So, you either do that by getting cancelled or just by getting old. In my case, I’m just too old to care. What else can audiences expect?

There’s always going to be a be a little bit of singing and dancing, but it’s mostly a systematic look at the state of the world and a systematic look at myself. The first third of the show is about me. And the journey I’m going to take you on, I could get cancelled for.

So I talk about the times I have been cancelled, and the whole Israel-Palestine thing is in the context of me having been through this before, because after 9/11 I was cancelled. Before the days of cancel culture, I was cancelled. So it’s the journey of how I resurrected my career after 9/11. And because I’ve been through this before, I can look at this terrible global situation [and ask] what can I do to avert it? I have no say, but I can certainly put out some thoughts and ideas. Visit tivoliwimborne.co.uk to book tickets to ‘Namaste’.

Interview with Omid Djalili

PREVIEW

Tales from the Woods

Colehill Music and Drama Society (CoMaD), Colehill Village Hall

If you go down to the Colehill Village Hall in February, you’re in for a big surprise. If you go down to the hall in February, you’ll never believe your eyes. For every tale that ever there was, is told in there for certain because, that is the time that CoMaD is doing the panto: ‘Tales from the Woods’.

In this original pantomime written by CoMaD’s founding member, Pam Mizon, we find out – amongst other things – what happened to Hansel and Gretel after they escaped from the witch, how Goldilocks has grown up and Mummy Bear is coping with empty nest syndrome, what effect losing her sheep has had on Bo Peep, and what’s upsetting Little Red Riding Hood now that she’s

old enough for romance.

There will be lots of recognisable characters, the usual interactions for the kiddies, and plenty of jokes for the grown-ups – all good, clean fun.

If any of your children know the story of Hansel and Gretel and the Gingerbread House already, please come along and they will get the chance to help tell what happened to the witch. The more dramatic, expressive and/or lurid their telling, the better!

‘Tales from the Woods’ runs for four performances from Friday 14 February at 7.30pm, Saturday 15 February at 2.30pm and 7.30pm and Sunday 16 February at 2.30pm. Book via ticketsource.co.uk/comad.

Gotta catch ‘em all at Museum of East Dorset

-Advertisement feature-

This February half term, everyone’s favourite pocket monsters are coming to the Museum of East Dorset (MED).

As you wind your way around the museum trail, you’ll learn all sorts of things about the wonderful world of Pokémon and their special powers, as well as the chance to try fun activities including designing your very own Pokémon. The museum is full to the brim with a host of crazy creatures from the hit series of famous 1990s’ video games.

This special half-term trail is in tandem with the MED’s current ‘I Grew Up 90s’ exhibition, recently featured in The Telegraph newspaper. Immerse yourself in some serious ‘90s’ nostalgia as the era of Britpop and Cool Britannia blasts into Wimborne.

Mums and dads who grew up in the ‘90s, bring your children

to show them a snapshot of what your own childhood was all about. There’s also dressingup fun, an arcade game and toys to play with. Don’t miss the genuine 1990s’ Pikachu plushie! So get out there and find some Pokémon – and good luck with catching ‘em all! Find out more at museumofeastdorset.co.uk.

An original Pikachu plushie from the '90s is on display

Events

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

30 January to 2 February 11am–3pm

Snowdrop garden open at 10 Ryan Close, Ferndown, BH22 9TP. Entrance and refreshments by donation to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.

1 February 10am–12noon Ringwood and Fordingbridge Lions open day at The Meeting House, Ringwood.

1 February 2pm–4pm Ferndown Arthritis and Friendship Club meets at Ferndown Plus Day Centre. Entertainment and afternoon tea. Door-to-door service. Call for more info: 03303 112793.

3 February 10.30am–11.30am Reading Friends meets at Wimborne Library.

3 February 7pm for 7.30pm Ferndown & West Moors Philatelic and Postcard Club meets at The Hamworthy Club, Magna Road, Canford Magna, BH21 3AP. Please call Paul Barry on 07932 581791 or email paulrichardbarry@hotmail. co.uk for programme details.

3 February 7.30pm Wimborne Gardening Club meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Lewens Lane. Dan Benson of Brothers Farm will talk on nurturing the flower field and the UK’s oldest blueberry plantation.

3 February 7.30pm ‘Jazz at the Allendale’ organised by Wimborne Rotary featuring Swing Unlimited Big Band. Admission free with tickets only available at the doors, which open at 7pm. Retiring collection in aid of Dorset Rural Music School, Youth Music Wessex, and other Rotary-supported charities.

4 February 2.30pm–4pm Bits & Bytes Computer Club meets in Ferndown library. See neilbarton.co.uk/bnbclub.html.

5 February 2pm–4.30pm Lytchett & Upton Floral Club demonstration with Melanie Smith at new venue: Lytchett Matravers Village Hall, BH16 6DF.

6–9 February 11am–3pm

Snowdrop garden open at 10 Ryan Close, Ferndown, BH22 9TP. Entrance and refreshments by donation to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance.

6 February 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall for the AGM and a quiz. Details on verwoodhorticulturalsociety. co.uk or call Ollie on 07508 577114.

7 February 10am–3pm Poole Leisure Painters meets at Lighthouse Poole. Contact secretary on 01202 693526.

8 February 9am–1pm

Women Together in Ringwood host a breakfast event with a talk by Kemi Koleoso, an international speaker from Jubilee Church, London. Taking place at Poulner Baptist Chapel, Linford Road, BH24 3HZ, the event costs £10. Call 01425 473388 to book.

8 February 9.45am

Community litter pick in West Moors. Meet at the council office, 4 Park Way. All equipment provided.

8–9 February 10am–4pm

Snowdrop weekend at St George’s Church, Damerham, SP6 3HU. Come and see the snowdrops growing naturally in a Norman churchyard. Refreshments available, plus market stalls.

10 February 7pm

Hengistbury Head Outdoors are holding a meeting to update the community about its plans for opening in 2025.

Venue: Saint Nicholas Church, 137 Broadway, BH6 4EP.

10 February 7.30pm

Ferndown French Circle meets in the George Room, King George Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, BH22 9EN. Dr Joanna Bellis will give a talk in English entitled ‘An evening stroll through 500 years of French Classical Music’. Enquiries on 07754 481635.

12 February 7.30pm

East Dorset Antiquarian Society meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Wimborne for a talk on 19th century rural life.

13–15 February 7.30pm

Castle Players present ‘Girl on the Train’ at Lytchett Matravers Village hall. Tickets from castleplayers. com or 01202 912531.

14–16 February

Colehill Music and Drama presents ‘Tales from the Woods’ at Colehill Memorial Hall. Book via TicketSource.

15 February 7.30pm

Artsreach presents The Neil Maya Quartet with The Charlie Parker Story at Sturminster Marshall Memorial Hall. Tickets from artsreach.co.uk.

16 February 3pm

Bournemouth Chamber Music Society’s concert at Kimmeridge House, Bournemouth University. Tickets from bournemouthchambermusic. co.uk or at the door.

17 February 10.30am–11.30am

Reading Friends group meets at Ferndown Library. Contact the library for more info.

18 February 8pm

Wimborne Civic Society meets at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne for a talk on the restoration of the Wimborne Minster organ.

Artsreach celebrates 35th birthday

Dorset-based charity Artsreach, which celebrates its 35th birthday this year, has published its spring programme which features 25 artists and companies set to perform over 50 live dates in more than 40 rural communities.

Music lovers can enjoy a medley of styles and genres from both national and international musicians, whilst theatregoers can journey into the psyche of one of the most memorable characters from ‘Great Expectations’ as award-winning actress, writer, and producer Heather Alexander tours the county with ‘Havisham’.

Artsreach also continues its involvement with the national Rural Touring Dance Initiative, welcoming Pagrav Dance to Dorset in March.

There’s plenty for families to see too during the February half-term. Full details and tickets are available from www.artsreach.co.uk.

Outlets where you can pick up a copy of the programme include libraries and tourist information centres.

Men of Iron exhibition comes to Poole

Poole Museum, which is owned and operated by BCP Council, is currently closed for redevelopment but in the meantime, it is presenting the ‘Men of Iron’ exhibition at Lighthouse, Poole.

‘Men of Iron’ began in 1985 as a student project led by Geoff Drury from Bournemouth and Poole College of Art and Design. Drury tasked his students with capturing the foundry’s operations, its robust machinery, and the dedication of the people who worked there.

The project took on a profound significance when the foundry, a longstanding ironworks located next to St James' Church in Poole’s Old Town, announced it would close its doors in 1985. The resulting photographs became a tribute to the men and women at the heart of Poole’s industrial heritage.

At the heart of ‘Men of Iron’ are the original black-and-white photographs by the former students at the college, now known as Arts University Bournemouth.

Alongside the photographs, Poole Museum is displaying artefacts from the foundry, including protective gear, castings, and moulds used daily by the workers.

The ‘Men of Iron’ exhibition is free to enter and will run until 22 February.

Photo by Gary Norman

Pagrav Dance. Photo by Simon Richardson

Award-winning comedy

‘The 39 Steps’ comes to Ferndown

-Advertiser announcement-

Ferndown Drama is pleased to present Patrick Barlow’s hilarious stage adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic spy thriller, ‘The 39 Steps’.

Winner of the 2007 Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy and a 2008 Tony Award nominee for Best Play, this riotous adaptation of ‘The 39 Steps’ was inspired both by John Buchan’s 1915 ground-breaking novel and Alfred Hitchcock’s 1935 film.

Distilling both works into an inventive and gripping comedy thriller, Barlow created a play that is in equal parts homage and parody. The result is a masterpiece of minimalist comedy that delivers big laughs while paying loving tribute to its source material.

The play follows the dashing Richard Hannay who becomes entangled in

an international conspiracy after a mysterious woman is murdered in his apartment. With her dying breath, she warns him of a shadowy organisation called The 39 Steps. What ensues is a whirlwind of suspense that goes from the bustling streets of London to the remote Scottish Highlands, as Hannay embarks on a thrilling adventure filled with daring antics, zany characters, ghastly murders, and good old-fashioned romance. Don’t miss this exhilarating escapade that will have you laughing, gasping, and cheering for more!

The production will be staged at The Barrington Theatre in Ferndown from 9–12 April 2025. Tickets cost £12 and book via ticketsource. co.uk/ferndown-drama, the box office or on the door.

Adapted by Patrick Barlow

From the novel by John Buchan

From the movie by Alfred Hitchcock

Licensed by ITV Global Entertainment Limited

And an original concept by Simon Corble and Nobby Dimon ‘The 39 Steps’ is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd. on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. www.concordtheatricals.co.uk.

REVIEW Vauxhall Grandland

By Luke Graham

One of the criticisms levelled at electric cars is the lack of range. Drivers worry that they’ll run out of spark before they reach their destination. With the brand new Grandland, Vauxhall has addressed these concerns. The standard version has a range of 325 miles, enough to drive from Bournemouth to Nottingham, while the ultimate version has a massive range of 425 miles, which could get you from Bournemouth to Leeds on a single charge. And if you did need to stop and recharge, it can take just 30 minutes to get the battery from 20 per cent to 80 per

cent using a rapid charger.

But what would driving those 400-odd miles feel like? Fortunately, the Grandland offers a solid, comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Sitting inside the spacious interior, I found the seats (with built-in seat warmers) luxurious and plush, while the steering wheel felt soft and comfortable to grip. I liked the central console between the driver and passenger seat, which featured an arm rest and several convenient storage compartments.

Moving off was smooth and the driving experience was pleasant. I was able

KEY SPECS

Fuel type: Electric

Body type: SUV

Transmission: Automatic

Range: Up to 425 miles

Price: EV models start from £37,345

Review car kindly supplied by Hendy Motors

to get up to 70mph easily, and I could feel the stability of the Grandland on the road. The large infotainment screen offered plenty of useful information about upcoming cameras while navigating. I particularly liked the heads-up display which projects information like your current speed and braking distance onto the windshield. This is placed directly in your line of sight of the road, meaning you don’t have to glance down at the dashboard, making for a much safer driving experience.

I was impressed by the Grandland’s other safety features. Lane assist warned me if I was drifting over the lines, while warning lights on the wing mirrors indicated if it was unsafe to merge into a lane due to an oncoming vehicle. The car also boasts a night vision system that can detect pedestrians and animals in darkness at a distance of up to 100m and alert the driver, though I didn’t get a chance to try this out.

Performing parking and reversing manoeuvres in a crowded car park was also a doddle. The car is nimble, responsive and boasts 360-degree panoramic cameras to ensure you can see kerbs and parking lines and avoid any obstacles. The high-resolution forward and rear-facing cameras

and infotainment system offer crystal clear vision of your surroundings.

Anther convenient feature included the automatic boot, which offers a massive space and opens and closes at the touch of a button.

I’ve written before that I’m not a fan of large SUV cars, but with growing children and aging parents I am starting to see the appeal. For those with mobility issues, the higher seat positions and greater leg room means they can side-step into their seat and get in and out with ease, as opposed to ‘falling’ into the seats of something closer to the ground like a saloon.

For those thinking of switching to electric or in need of a larger car, the Grandland truly offers a ‘grand’ experience.

The Grandland offers a top range of 425 miles © Vauxhall

Interior design trends for 2025

If you’re thinking of redesigning your living space, then it’s worth knowing what the hot trends are predicted to be this year

According to the experts at the interior design studio Black&Milk, wellness will be the big theme of the year. Olga Alexeeva, creative director of the studio, says that a well-designed space should “foster a positive and nurturing environment.”

So how can your home embrace wellness? One way is to bring the outdoors inside. Create a seamless flow between nature and the home by using traditional materials like timber and glass. Large windows and roof lights can open up a space by increasing the natural light into a room and create a sensory experience that

This Soho loft uses a blend of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics

Nature was integral to the design of this garden space in Hampstead

emphasises tranquillity. Black&Milk also predict the principles of feng shui and ‘Japandi’ — a blend of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetics — will be a major trend in 2025. Feng shui is a Chinese philosophy for interior design based on arranging furniture in a living space that creates balance and

harmony. Meanwhile, Japandi emphasises minimalism and calming design choices. For instance, using lowlevel furniture can enhance a space by allowing air and light to flow around a room. Finally, Black&Milk predicts that home spas and fitness rooms will become increasingly popular as more people

prioritise self-care spaces within their homes. Alexeeva notes that wellness spaces, from spa rooms to home gyms, are among the design studio’s most requested features. She said: “Wellness culture is rising, and creating spaces dedicated to self-care at home offers a luxurious, accessible solution.”

Beyond enhancing relaxation, these self-care spaces and upgrades can add lasting value to a property. In a recent project, Black&Milk transformed a bathroom into a

spa-inspired sanctuary using mood lighting and distinct materials to differentiate it from other areas of the home. This spatial ‘sensory shift’ helps occupants to fully disconnect, engaging their senses and encouraging relaxation.

Whether you’re embracing nature by blurring indooroutdoor boundaries, creating peaceful balance through feng shui and Japandi, or setting up dedicated spaces for self-care, wellness-driven design can ensure your home becomes a sanctuary of tranquillity.

A bathroom transformed into a spa-inspired sanctuary

CORRESPONDENCE

NEWS IN BRIEF

EDHT programme

East Dorset Heritage Trust’s spring programme is now available from its premises at Allendale House in Wimborne. As well as talks, it contains details of outings, walks, and courses. The programme is also available on edht.org.uk.

Runners needed

To mark its 70-year anniversary, Diverse Abilities is looking for 70 runners to take on challenges this year. Runners can sign up to any run of their choice or sign up for a charity place for the Dorset Mud Run or Run Bournemouth. To find out more and sign up, visit diverseabilities.org.uk/dsa.

Writing fest

Tickets are now on sale for the third Bournemouth Writing Festival, to be held over the weekend of 25–27 April at various locations in Bournemouth town centre. The three days will be packed with around 100 events and activities (some free) to inspire writers of all ages, backgrounds, abilities and experience. There will be talks, walks, panels, workshops, informal networking breakfasts, lunches and dinners, and literary agent 1-2-1s. For details, visit bournemouthwritingfestival.co.uk.

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

A heartfelt thanks from LewisManning Hospice Care

I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to your readers and the community for their invaluable support of LewisManning over the past year. Your generosity and commitment have made a profound difference, enabling us to achieve remarkable milestones in enhancing palliative care for our community. Together, we have:

• Developed the anticipatory care model of Hospice at Home for Poole and Purbeck, bringing compassionate care directly to families in need, in their own homes.

• Strengthened our ‘Closer to Home’ services across East Dorset and Purbeck, ensuring more accessible support for patients and their loved ones.

• Supported over 1,300 patients this year, offering comfort and dignity during their most challenging times.

• Expanded our care offerings to include occupational therapy, providing vital support to improve quality of life for our patients.

• Enhanced our complementary therapy services, addressing the holistic needs of patients and their loved ones.

• Developed our family support services, now extending to children and young

people, recognising the importance of supporting the entire family at end of life. Our patron and HM Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset, Michael Dooley, recently said: “These achievements were recently recognised when I was honoured to present this amazing charity with the ‘Social Impact Award’ at the annual Dorset Chamber of Commerce’s Business Awards. This is testament to the outstanding work that LewisManning Hospice Care does. This is a charity that makes such a huge difference to the lives of people across Dorset with life limiting illness. A huge thanks to everyone who supports this very worthwhile, innovative charity”. I would like to add that none of this would have been possible without the extraordinary kindness of our supporters— people like your readers. On behalf of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care and the families we serve, thank you for being part of this journey. Your generosity continues to inspire hope and make a real difference in the lives of so many.

As we look ahead, we are determined to build on these successes and extend our reach even further. With your continued support, we can achieve even more for the people of Dorset. Thank you once again!

Yours faithfully,

Clare Gallie CEO of Lewis-Manning Hospice Care

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The history of

Valentine ’s Day

Valentine’s Day, or Saint Valentine’s Day, is celebrated every year on 14 February. This day is a celebration of love and affection, but its origins are steeped in mystery, blending Christian traditions with ancient Roman rituals.

The day is named after Saint Valentine, but the Catholic Church has recognised at least three different saints named Valentine, and two of these martyrs may have been the same person – which is a little bit confusing!

The two saints celebrated on 14 February (who may have been the same person) are Valentine of Rome and Valentine of Terni.

The Roman Valentine was a priest who was martyred in the year 269 AD and buried on Via Flaminia. According to one story, Valentine was beheaded by Emperor Claudius II for secretly performing marriages for young Christian couples –Claudius had banned marriage

By Luke Graham

because he thought married men were bad soldiers. A flower-crowned skull purportedly belonging to Valentine is on display in Rome.

Meanwhile, Valentine of Terni was a bishop killed by Claudius for converting people to Christianity and for helping Christians escape from Roman persecution. According to one story, while imprisoned, Valentine healed his jailor’s blind daughter and restored her vision. A later embellishment to this story is that, before his death, he left the girl a farewell note signed ‘From your Valentine,’ originating this common phrase.

The Feast of Saint Valentine was established by Pope Gelasius I in 496 AD to honour one (or both) of these martyrs, and as a way to replace the Roman fertility festival of Lupercalia which also took place in mid-February.

Valentine’s Day did not gain its romantic connotations until Geoffrey

When Valentine’s cards weren’t so sweet

By Tracie Billington-Beardsley

Although today’s Valentine’s cards are usually of the romantic and loving variety – bearing red hearts, flowers and endearing verses – it wasn’t always so.

In the 19th century people were known to send ‘Vinegar’ Valentines to those they didn’t like. Becoming popular in the 1840s, they were cheaply produced cards with cruel caricatures and rude verses mocking the recipient’s appearance, personality and profession.

And if you don’t believe this, pop along to the Museum of East Dorset where there is a display of over 300 rare Victorian Valentine's cards.

Curator Rob Gray said: “If there was a fire, out of all the precious exhibits here, the cards would be the first things we’d aim to save.”

Vinegar Valentine's cards were used to discourage the attention of would-be suitors through mockery and contempt. One reads: “My pleasant, pig-faced gentleman, you may persuade me to marry you if you can…!”

Another common type of Vinegar Valentine mocked tradesmen and shopkeepers, with verses making sarcastic references to the person’s occupation. “Your buttered words such love bespoke but now it seems you’ll save your bacon…!”

Untrustworthy suitors were another target for these cards. Usually aimed at men, particularly those whose motives for wooing were considered suspect.

One reads: “From a lady to a rake, think not gay deceiver, I’m a fond believer!”

The museum’s collection

Chaucer wrote the poem ‘Parliament of Fowls’ in the 14th century, to honour the first anniversary of the engagement of 15-year-old King Richard II of England to 15-year-old Anne of Bohemia. The poem is said to have popularised the association between Valentine’s Day and courtly love.

Advances in printing technology led to the tradition of sending Valentine’s cards in in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the 1840s, ‘Vinegar Valentines’ became popular – a satire of Valentine’s cards that featured an ugly drawing and a rude poem, intended to insult the recipient. You can read more about these below.

Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated around the world, with many different regional customs and traditions, usually with the exchanging of gifts or going out on dates. Whether or not you choose to celebrate it, or have someone to share it with, have a lovely day.

also includes beautiful Valentine's cards from the Victorian era. By the 1700s, the tradition of writing a romantic letter or poem to a loved one on Valentine’s Day had become established. Books known as “Valentine Writers” offered pre-written romantic verses to help you woo your lover.

With the introduction of the Penny Post, a letter could be delivered to any part of Great Britain for the cost of a one penny postage stamp. This saw a rapid increase in the number of Valentine's cards

being sent by post, from an estimated 60,000 in 1836 to over 400,000 in 1841. The revolution in printing methods saw a boom in Valentine's cards with more sophisticated, multi-coloured cards, lace, embossed and even 3D effects created through layers of paper.

The Valentine’s card collection is available to view all year round at the museum. Visit museumofeastdorset.co.uk for opening times.

Two examples from the museum’s collection