Viewpoint February 2024

Mid February 2024 Volume 48, Issue 4

Verwood Carnival cancelled

It’s a sad year for the people of Verwood as the carnival which first took to the streets in 1931 has been cancelled due to lack of volunteers to organise and hold the event.

See page 5 for more on this story.

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Inside this issue: Competition £60 voucher to spend locally Horrific animal cruelty case King sends message to volunteers

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VIEWPOINT Volume 48 • Issue 4 • February 2024

Dear readers

VIEWPOINT

Although it is good to see a new event pop into the local calendar, it is always rather comforting and reassuring to know that something that has been running for years is still drawing the crowds and giving pleasure.

On 13 February (after Viewpoint went to print) there was Wimborne Pancake Race – pictures in the next Dorset View – which has attracted many onlookers as well as numerous competitors since it was revived in 1998.

And in June the town of Wimborne will welcome the folk festival.

Founded in 1979 as a one-off event by the late Brian Bisp and called Wimborne Country Festival it subsequently became Wimborne Folk Festival and grew exponentially. Now with new organisers and named Wimborne Minster Folk Festival it remains an event that everyone looks forward to.

Carnivals that have been running for decades include Corfe Mullen (1967) and Ringwood (1928).

And you don’t need to be involved in the farming industry to enjoy agricultural shows. The New Forest Show, always a popular local date for the diary, was founded in 1920 and it continues to grow. The Ellingham Show first began in 1947.

Religious festivals have always been a marker, and there are very often events linked such as Wimborne Minster’s hot cross bun walk which has been a tradition for more than 40 years, encouraging people to walk to Pamphill to find buns hanging from trees!

Food festivals have become established in more recent times, but it looks as if they are here to stay, with the Christchurch Food Festival having been launched in 2000 and Christchurch Cheese and Chilli Festival beginning 10 years ago.

Needless to say with some of the above events there were interruptions during the Second World War and during the pandemic.

Marilyn Barber News 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

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Picture of the month

Waxwing spotted in Poole by Sally Rufus

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New Forest brothers jailed for torturing animals Kristen and Todd Cooper are behind bars for causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal.

The brothers were found guilty of horrifying animal cruelty and theft.

Kristen Cooper, 24, of Bransgore in Hampshire, was sentenced to a total of five years in prison at Southampton Crown Court on 19 January.

He admitted to seven offences of causing unnecessary suffering to a protected animal following an investigation by Dorset Police, and for further offences in Hampshire.

Following a warrant on 3 October 2022, officers seized the defendant’s phone and found videos showing the defendants causing unnecessary suffering to animals, mainly in rural areas at night.

They showed Cooper causing suffering to injured deer and hares and in some

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cases encouraging dogs to attack them. There were videos showing wildlife with injuries suggesting they had been mutilated. The videos were reviewed by an expert, who described them as some of the worst cases of animal abuse he had seen in 24 years.

Cooper also admitted handling stolen goods taken from farms in East Dorset. He entered further guilty pleas to two charges of criminal damage and an offence of intentionally encouraging or assisting the commission of a criminal offence where a vehicle was driven deliberately at a police car and a further two cars in Christchurch Road, Bournemouth, in December 2021. He was also sentenced for other motoring offences.

His co-defendant Todd Cooper, 29, of Sway in Hampshire, was sentenced to three years and eight months after admitting an animal cruelty

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Todd Cooper

offence that involved him and Kristen Cooper holding down a deer while he struck it over the head with a blunt object.

The brothers were also sentenced for assault and weapons offences committed in the New Forest area in March 2023.

Additionally, Kristen Cooper was made the subject of a 10year Criminal Behaviour Order preventing him from being in possession of a catapult and from being on agricultural or farmland between the hours of 12am and 6am. He was banned from owning a dog for 10 years.

Another defendant – Leo Shields, 26, from Bournemouth – was previously sentenced at Poole Magistrates’ Court on 16 February 2023 for three counts of criminal damage, one involving ramming a police car. He was sentenced to an 18-month community order with a requirement to carry out 60 hours of unpaid work as

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Kristen Cooper

well as a rehabilitation activity requirement. Shields was ordered to pay £85 costs and a victim surcharge of £95.

Angharad Thomas, CPS Wessex Wildlife Lead, said: “This was a shocking case, involving unimaginable violence and cruelty to animals on a level that I have, thankfully, rarely seen before.

“Working closely with the Rural Crime Team throughout, we were able to make sure we had all the evidence we needed for a strong prosecution case, ensuring that these defendants faced justice for their cruelty and absolute disregard for protected animals.”

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Continued from page 1

Verwood Carnival cancelled Verwood Carnival, which is usually held on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday, has been cancelled this year due to a lack of volunteers.

An urgent final call in January for people to come forward attracted just four offers of help.

Shelley Rose, who took over the running of the committee in 2017, said there were just seven people on the organising committee, which wasn’t enough as they would have been overloaded with work.

This is a sad reflection on the town which has a population of around 17,000.

The carnival is usually hugely popular with hundreds of people lining the streets to enjoy the procession as well as enjoying activities on Potterne Park.

It is hoped the event could be held again in 2025 but people need to come forward by June this year to make plans. Email verwoodcarnivalvolunteering@ gmail.com if you can help.

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Call for more police for Ringwood

Cookie is pictured back to her normal bouncy self

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

People in Ringwood feel that the town needs more help from the police than the current provision

That was one tasty rib!

A research exercise was carried out to identify the concerns of the public about issues of safety with the report being presented to a recent meeting of Ringwood Town Council.

One person said: “Crime is an issue. Reporting is a waste of time, as we do not have a police station in Ringwood any longer. Burglaries and attempted burglaries around Hightown Hill/Forest Lane are a constant worry. The police are basically not interested, even when someone has a CCTV recording of the attempt.”

Another resident said: “There doesn’t appear to be any deterrent for crime in the area apart from that provided by residents themselves.”

With regard to anti-social

Cedar Vets carry out some pretty impressive lifesaving surgery, and Cookie’s operation was no exception.

The team at Cedar Vets told Viewpoint Magazine: “On New Year’s Day, we saw the lovely Cookie with her owners after having a bout of vomiting and being off her food. Her normal bouncy demeanour that we are usually greeted with, was replaced with a very slow and poorly dog. After speaking to Cookie’s owners it was agreed that further investigation was required to get this lady back to her normal self. Once we had done these further investigations of x-rays and ultrasounds, it was found that Cookie had eaten a rib bone.”

Cookie was taken into surgery and it was discovered

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behaviour, one respondent said: “Kids on scooters in the shops should be stopped. I saw an elderly lady in one shop rammed into by five teenagers (boys). They just laughed.”

Other concerns raised were drug taking and drug dealing plus targeted thefts of machinery from outbuildings.

A respondent said: “Groups of youngsters collecting in the underpass from Gravel Lane can be intimidating especially when they are high on poppers or cannabis.

There is rarely any visible presence of law enforcement and I am in town most days at various times. I think most people don’t bother reporting petty crimes to the police as they don’t feel confident of getting a response.”

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that the bone had poked through a loop of her intestines.

The bone was removed and the new holes it had made were sutured together. Cookie recovered well after surgery and was sent home to continue her recovery with her owners.

The rib bone

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Funeral business raises funds Douch & Small funeral directors in Wimborne raised over £1,000 for the Ladybird Breast Unit at Poole Hospital Funeral director Amy Turvey and colleagues carried out a number of events to raise money, such as raffles and skittles evenings.

Amy’s mother Jan was treated at the clinic after being diagnosed with breast cancer and is now in remission.

Amy said: “The Ladybird clinic was brilliant for Mum and diagnosed her on the same day she had the test.

“Treatment was excellent and now she is in remission. We wanted to give something back.”

Her fiancé Robert Atkins and his friend Andy Forrest cycled from Wimborne to Bristol and back again to help raise the money.

A cheque for £1,089 was presented to the corporate fundraiser for the charity Hayley Harris. She said: “We are extremely grateful to Amy and the staff at Douch & Small who raised such an amazing amount.

“We can now work with the team on the Ladybird Unit to use the funds towards items that are over and above NHS funding.

Most of all, we are thrilled to hear Jan is in remission. Go Jan.”

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Tackling loneliness In January, the national charity aiming to make social isolation a thing of the past, FoodCycle, unveiled the results of a recent survey revealing that almost half of their guests (44%) eat most meals alone and 72% admit to feeling lonely. FoodCycle provide community meals. Their nearest location to East Dorset is in Southampton.

Conducted at the end of 2023, the survey underpins the need for services which tackle the UK’s loneliness pandemic by forging positive connection in local communities. The results suggest that FoodCycle’s community meals model works – with 92% of the 1,448 guests surveyed leaving weekly meals feeling happier, 88% feeling more part of their community and 84% feeling less lonely.

FoodCycle currently operates 83 projects across England and Wales. By the end of 2024, they hope to have their weekly meals running in 100 locations.

Solar panels Ellingham and Ringwood has become the first rugby club in Hampshire to benefit from solar panels thanks to sponsorship from Simon and Clare Banks from Verwood-based Smart Home Technical Ltd. It is estimated that the savings on electrical costs for the club will be approximately £3,000 a year. This is also a step towards the club’s objective of being as ‘green’ as possible.

Another club sponsor, Ringwood Scaffolding, provided the scaffolding free of charge during the installation.

Simon Banks plays for Ellingham and Ringwood’s 3rd XV and their veteran’s side, while his daughter plays in the girls’ section.

Smart Home Technical also supports the club in a variety of other ways including paying for a pitch-side signboard, sponsoring a set of girls’ shirts, carrying out electrical work at the club and installing a big screen that members watch international matches on.

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How do you choose the right audiologist?

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Most of 2County Hearing’s clients (over 60%) come via recommendations. There is no better sense of satisfaction than to have helped improve someone’s hearing so much that they want to recommend 2County Hearing to others with hearing difficulties.

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Column by Fordingbridge Museum is sponsored by Adrian Dowding

Wash Your Worries Away Award winning Green Gram Last summer, Fordingbridge Museum had a stand at an event at Rockbourne Roman Villa.

It was situated next to the remains of the luxurious bathing facilities that were an essential part of a wealthy family home in Roman times.

This got me thinking about the history of bathrooms.

The Romans had both public and private bathing facilities and having a bath was treated like an experience.

They would start in an unheated room, a frigidarium, before moving on to a warm room, a tepidarium, then to a hot room, a caldarium and

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finally back to the frigidarium for a cold plunge. Soap was yet to be invented so warm oils would be rubbed onto the skin and then scraped off by a device called a strigil.

This would remove sweat and dirt. Public baths would be a place to socialise, and many even had areas to exercise. This might have included boxing and wrestling, ball games, running, jumping, and weightlifting.

In the 14th century, Edward III had a bathroom in the Palace of Westminster and numerous public bath houses were opened on the south bank of the Thames. These

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were known as bagnios or stew houses but many of them became a front for brothels, which led to Henry II closing them down. Henry VIII also shut public baths to prevent the spread of the plague.

By the 17th and 18th centuries bathing was still not a daily ritual, although the shower was invented at the surprisingly early date of 1767. In Georgian times houses would not have a separate bathroom. In wealthier properties washing took place in the bedroom where a washstand would support a large ceramic basin.

This would be filled from a jug of hot water brought up by a maid. In poorer households a tin bath would be placed in front of the open fire.

With the development of germ theory in the 19th century, cleanliness became synonymous with good health. Gas water heaters were developed for the wealthy and wooden baths were replaced by copper ones. Towards the end of the century many houses of the middle classes would have a separate bathroom.

These days a bathroom is often to do with style as well as functionality. They are places to keep clean but also to relax and unwind. Perhaps some of you might be reading this by candlelight whilst luxuriating in a lovely warm bath. @Dorset_View

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A Fordingbridge community shop with excellent green credentials has been awarded The Horace Plunkett award, part of the Rural Community Business Awards by the Plunkett Foundation.

The Green Gram moved into new larger, more accessible premises at 23 High Street in 2023.

Selected from 19 finalists, representing a wide range of businesses from across the UK – including community-owned farms, shops, pubs and community hubs, these businesses help rural communities tackle local issues such as isolation, loneliness, and lack of employment, as well as improving wellbeing. They provide vital services locally, take action on climate change and actively promote equity, diversity and inclusion in the countryside.

Committee member Jo Anderson said: “We are absolutely delighted that the hard work we have put into our shop and the support we have been given by our volunteers has received such a plaudit.

Since our move, we have had some fantastic feedback from our local community but to be recognised for the work we have done by those who are further afield is terrific. We are extremely proud of what we have achieved and our little bit in putting Fordingbridge on the map.” @dorset.view

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Healthy eating at Christchurch Junior School “You are a great cooker and I didn’t know that there was nine teaspoons of sugar in a can of Cola”, was typical of many comments passed by children at Christchurch Junior School when CFFET trustee Mary Reader

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and her team visited the school to teach the children food skills and healthy eating.

The team from Christchurch Food Festival Education Trust consisted of Loic Gratadoux, a Christchurch-based chef, Julie Laurent, a former primary school teacher, and Master’s degree student Summer Moody.

“The children also took part in cooking a Mediterranean fish stew and a chicken chow mein,” said Mary who has been running the healthy eating classes for 18 years.

Five other Christchurch schools will be visited before the end of March.

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Open Day at thriving school situated in the New Forest - Advertisement feature -

Moyles Court School, set in a stunning 17th century manor house in the New Forest National Park near Ringwood, is a happy and thriving school.

Its idyllic setting and its ability to treat every pupil as an individual helps create a warm, nurturing environment where wonderful memories are created, and great academic progress is made.

This independent day and boarding school for children from 2½ to 16 years old, comprising of a PreSchool, a Junior School and a Senior School, is situated less than a mile off the A338 between Ringwood and Fordingbridge. The Pre-School school is open to all, and Childcare Vouchers are accepted, Early Years funding (from 2½ to their 5th birthday), and payments from tax-free childcare accounts.

Come and visit on the Open Morning on Saturday 2 March and get a sense of the wonderful atmosphere that exists at Moyles Court, and the wonderful work that happens every day. Please call or email to book a tour: admissions@ moylescourt.co.uk / 01425 472856.

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Volunteers sought for Blandford Cares

By Nicci Brown Blandford Cares, which works to support refugees in Calais, Ukraine and others, including lonely and distressed families and individuals locally, needs more volunteers to help with sorting and driving, particularly to Calais.

The group reported a reduced turnover in 2023 when their sorting rooms at the United Reformed Church were closed for reconstruction work. They were, however, able to maintain their financial support, including sponsorship for a worker with the rough sleeping refugee community in Calais.

As part of the new community centre for those in need at the URC – the Food Bank, Nourish Shop and café, and base for other organisations – they aim to help local people with practical domestic needs has become easier.

Founder Mike Hearn said: “The combined effect of ‘new’ wars, disasters, governmental mis-management of the whole asylum system and border control makes it hard to remember that a Blandford rough sleeper or a sodden, cold asylum seeker hiding from the authorities in France is just as much in need of humanitarian help as an orphan/family in Ukraine or Sudan.”

Additional funding for museum Trustees of Blandford Town Museum were thrilled to learn that the attraction is one of several to be awarded grant funding by Dorset Council, and that the amount awarded annually over the next three years has doubled from £5,000 a year to £10,000 a year.

Director Sylvia Hixson Andrews said: “It is thanks to grant funding and our dedicated team of volunteers that we are able to maintain free entry to our museum, manage rising costs and develop our programme of education and activities.”

She said they had recently renovated the exhibits and added new ones.

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Trauma Teddy helps pick winner One of Pulford Publicity’s STARS Dorset trauma teddies – yet to be named – helped with the randomiser for a Viewpoint competition with nearly 200 entries. The winner is David Aubin from Ferndown. David’s correct answer of “Thursday,”

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won him a £60 voucher to dine out at the Old Beams at Ibsley.

Teddy would like to say “thank you” to all those who entered giving him his first job in the office.

Council launches school attendance campaign Amid national concerns about school attendance, worsened by the pandemic, there has been a significant drop in young people going to school over the past few years. In response, Dorset Council has launched the ‘In This Together’ campaign.

Amanda Davis, director of Education and Learning, said: “We know some families have experienced all sorts of challenges and that each

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child has a unique set of circumstances that might get in the way of regular attendance in education. It’s important to know you’re not alone. We have support systems in place, and there are charities and community groups ready to help too.”

For more details about getting support, visit www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ attendance

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Are you affected by hard water?

Hard water is formed when rainwater percolates through rock that is rich in calcium and magnesium.

On the south coast there is an abundance of limestone, which is why so many households suffer from the damaging effects of limescale.

on home improvements like a new bathroom, kitchen or boiler, it really does make sense to protect your investment by fitting a water softener in your home.

What’s the damage?

Unsightly water marks that accumulate on shower screens, tiles, and kitchen sinks are caused, but there’s a lot more going on behind the scenes.

Over time, as hard water passes through household appliances fitted with heating elements, such as washing machines, hot water cylinders, boilers and kettles, the scale will build up on the element. This will decrease the efficiency of the appliance and ultimately shorten its life. Other fixtures like shower valves and taps will also become affected.

When you’re spending money

AquaTight can help!

AquaTight offer a comprehensive range of quality water softeners to suit your needs and budgets.

Call now on 01202 983858 for a free, no obligation quote.

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Danny Wills

What is a water softener?

A water softener is a clever device that is connected to the incoming mains water supply.

It removes the calcium from the water and sends it down the drain before it has a chance to wreak havoc in your home.

Glass and tiled surfaces stay shiny, taps and valves work as they should and your appliances operate at optimum efficiency with a much longer life span.

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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

Sign up today: https://lewis-manning.org.uk/muddy-dog-dash/ “

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verwood news

Selling or letting your home?

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Castleman Estate Agents moved into Verwood in 2021 after starting life as an online business.

Specialising in sales and lettings, they are very proud of their community work which can be viewed on their website.

New or existing landlords are welcome to find out what the estate agency can offer over a coffee in the cosy office.

Meet the friendly team who all live locally.

Free valuations and advice are offered in Verwood and all surrounding areas.

Based in Station Road adjacent to the free car park, Castleman Estate Agents are open six days a week. They offer a personalized service and unbeatable rates.

Working with the local solicitors ensures a smooth service and Castleman Estate Agents wish Harold G Walker every success with their new move.

Upcoming shows at Verwood Hub Verwod Hub theatre in Brock Way has some varied shows on the way The popular Comedy Store has upcoming dates on 16 March and 18 May. Other shows will include Kapow Wrestling on 24 February.

This will be an afternoon of hard hitting, high flying action. ‘Women In Rock’ on 1 March and ‘Giants

of Rock’ on 8 June promise to wow the audiences with high energy performances.

And for those who love The Pink Floyd, Adele and The Rolling Stones, there are tribute bands appearing on 23 March, 12 April and 27 April respectively. Book online by searching for Verwood Hub or call 01202 828740.

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verwood news

An invitation from Planning well Verwood Choral Society underway When you sing does it make you feel better? Do you find yourself singing or humming when you are happy? Research has shown that music can improve mood and help reduce anxiety and blood pressure as it releases endorphins which aids a healthy mind and healthy body.

If singing meant you could also raise money for a local charity, it would benefit you, the charity and the local community, so why not try it? In December Verwood Choral Society’s Christmas concert raised over £500 for Julia’s House.

The choral society meets every Monday at St Michael’s Parish Church, Verwood, between 7pm-8.30pm.

Rehearsing for the summer concert has just begun. As well as singing familiar songs, Ann Mayo, musical director, encourages everyone to learn new music. There are no auditions and it’s a great place to make new friends.

For more information contact Carol Sampson, chairperson, on 01202 814072 or e-mail casampson@tiscali.co.uk, or simply turn up.

Purple Haze consultation closes on 5 March Hampshire County Council (HCC) will be closing its Minerals & Waste Plan Update Consultation on 5 March 2024.

The campaign group ‘No to Purple Haze’ led by Friends of Ringwood Forest is urging people to join them in saying “No.” They say the Plan Update threatens nearby Ringwood Forest by the continuing intention to develop the proposed Purple Haze quarry. Information about this can be found at www.no2ph. weebly.com and click on the Purple Haze poster box.

If you need help to respond, the No 2 Purple Haze campaign can be contacted

at info@forf.org.uk.

For HCC’s Plan Update consultation website (notices, response guidance, all documentation, etc) go to https://www.hants.gov.uk/ minerals-waste-update If you have any skills directly related to quarry development/ operations, minerals planning or environmental/ecological protection, and can help build the No 2 Purple Haze campaign response to HCC, please get in touch at info@forf.org.uk.

Updates on the campaign can be found on the Facebook group: No 2 Purple Haze. https://www.facebook. com/No2PurpleHaze

for 2024

By Louisa Hiscock

The start of the new year has been a time of looking forward for Verwood Rotary Club members. Planning is already well underway for two of our main annual events. Our Swing Band Dance will be on Saturday 23 March at Verwood Memorial Hall to raise funds for President Andy Maw’s chosen charity of The John Thornton Young Achievers’ Foundation.

This great evening has live music from Swing Unlimited and a licensed bar. Please help us to raise money for this local charity whilst enjoying a good night out. Tickets can be purchased in advance from club members or give Vern a call on 01202 824005.

This month we celebrate the ‘birthday’ of our club at our annual Charter Evening. It is always lovely to dress up for

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a special dinner and mark the founding of our club in 1988 with club members, partners and guests. The plan is for the club to continue supporting and serving our local community for another 36 years or more, so we are always keen to hear from anyone interested in joining, coming along to a meeting or getting more involved in local events with us. Contact us on enquiries@ verwoodrotary.org.uk.

We are also in the early stages of planning our next Rustic Fayre for August Bank Holiday Monday. As always this big Verwood event will have everything we all look forward to every summer as well as being a great opportunity to raise funds for local charities, organisations and groups in our community.

Put the date in your diary!

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

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Viewpoint 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.

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.

Dorset quick off the mark

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VIEWPOINT February 2024

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Rockbourne Fair organisers presented over £51,000 to Salisbury District Hospital’s charity the Stars Appeal on 18 January. The president of the appeal, the Earl of Pembroke thanked the Rockbourne Fair Committee. “The fantastic amount of money raised is a testament to their hard work and dedication, and to the brilliant support and generosity of our local community,” he said. Rockbourne Fair will be back at Salisbury Racecourse on 1618 October. The last five Rockbourne Fairs have raised £261,514.

Picture of the presentation by Spencer Mulholland.

According to new data, Dorset has been named as the county with the quickest response to NHS 111 calls.

Data provided by NHS Dorset has revealed that since April last year: more than 92 per cent of 111 calls have been answered in under 60 seconds; the average speed to answer was just over 17 seconds; even at the busiest times, all calls were answered within two minutes.

If you need urgent medical help for something that is not life-threatening and can’t wait to see your GP, support is available 24/7 via 111.nhs.uk or by calling 111.

If you, or someone you are with, needs urgent care call 999 and ask for an ambulance.

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health and care

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Viewpoint 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.

Join The Big Dementia Conversation

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, kickstart 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

Ferndown Manor is inviting members of the community to an event as part of The Big Dementia Conversation.

The Let’s Talk About Dementia event will be held on Wednesday 21 February from 2pm-3.30pm.

Aimed at those living with dementia and their loved ones, the event will offer advice and support as well as shining a light on some aspects of dementia including why a loved one might be behaving differently, and how best to support them.

According to a recent survey, commissioned by Care UK, who hosted an event at The Potteries in January, 8 in 10 adults believe dementia is still misunderstood, with 69% of the nation believing it’s a subject which is not talked about enough in society.

To book your place at the Ferndown Manor event, contact customer relations manager, Robin Hill, on 01202 863100 or email robin.hill@ careuk.com

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

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Viewpoint 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.

Stars Appeal equipment helps Megan walk again Run a colourful two After a horse-riding accident in May 2023, Megan Field was left paralysed and told she would never walk again.

Megan, 35, recalls: “It was like a light going out where the connection to that part of my body just went. I thought ‘I can’t feel my legs or anything below the chest, nothing.”

After surgery Megan, from Trowbridge, started to get feeling back in one of her legs and was transferred to Salisbury Hospital’s Duke of Cornwall Spinal Treatment Centre to start rehabilitation.

She was one of the first patients to use the £29,000 Stars Appeal-funded LiteGait – a supported mobile hoist system that helped her build up strength and confidence walking.

Four months after her accident she was able to walk out of the spinal centre with the help of crutches and is continuing her recovery at home.

“The progress I’ve made would have taken much longer without the LiteGait,” said Megan. “Every day on the Spinal Unit, Stars Appeal equipment made a difference to my life. It is massively important and supports everything the therapists are doing. I don’t really have the words to say what this has meant to me. Thank you to all the Stars Appeal supporters who have made this equipment possible and helped me to walk again.”

The Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity fund a range of activities for spinal injury patients. To find out more visit www.starsappeal. org/our-work/spinal-centre

Megan Field using the LiteGait.

Picture by Spencer Mulholland

miles for local charity Running a couple of miles whilst dressed in a colourful outfit doesn’t sound too onerous and could be a great deal of fun.

Such an event is being planned for Sunday 28 April to raise funds for Diverse Abilities.

The Colour Fest 2 Mile Fun Run will take place in the grounds of St Giles House in Wimborne St Giles.

The flat multi-terrain route passes the house before rounding the Estate lake. A

New research has discovered the most common medical mistakes, or ‘Never Events’, in NHS hospitals with wrong site surgery being at the top of the list, where a surgical intervention is performed on the wrong patient or the wrong site.

Never Events are defined by the NHS as serious incidents that are largely preventable and should never occur if the correct safety procedures are implemented and followed.

Accident compensation experts at claims.co.uk analysed NHS Never Events data from April 2015 to September 2023 to reveal the medical mistakes that occur the most in NHS hospitals. Here are the top five.

1. Wrong site surgery, a surgical intervention performed on the wrong patient or wrong site has been recorded 1,584 times over the eight-year period. Mistakes that have happened within this category include the wrong toe being removed, and an injection into the wrong eye.

3. Wrong implant or prosthesis, where the incorrect implants VIEWPOINT February 2024

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Find out more and sign up at diverseabilities.org.uk/ events2024/trailfunrun.

Medical mistakes make uncomfortable reading

2. Retained foreign object post procedure, which refers to the retention of a foreign object in a patient after a surgical or invasive procedure. This has occurred 852 times from 2015 to 2023, with objects that have been mistakenly left inside patients’ bodies after procedures consisting of cotton wool balls, surgical needles, gloves, and clamps.

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woodland trail leads to a tarmac road section before entering the tree lined finish. After the race there will be live music and food.

Runners who want to take on a greater distance can choose to run a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, Junior 1k and Junior 200m as part of the UK Trail Running Festival which all take place on the same day.

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and artificial body parts were given to patients that they were not intended for. There were 431 recorded incidents over eight years. Mistakes within this category include the implantation of a cranial plate that was custom made for another patient, the wrong pacemaker being fitted, and insertion of the wrong stent or feeding tube.

4. Administration of medication by the wrong route, which was recorded 180 times over the eight-year period. One example of this is oral medication being given to the patient subcutaneously, meaning medication was injected rather than swallowed, which can result in ineffective treatment and a prolonged stay in hospital.

5. Misplaced nasogastric or orogastric tube, 159 recorded incidents between 2015 to 2023. These tubes placed either through the nose or the mouth that end with the tip in the stomach; an example of a mistake within this category includes the nasogastric tube being placed in the respiratory tract and feed being administered.

To put this article into context, a google search resulted in the following information: the NHS perform over 10 million operations each year. The number of NHS hospitals in the UK, correct as at August 2023, is 930. @dorset.view

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ringwood news

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Volunteers receive message from The King West Moors Town Council has received correspondence from His Majesty King Charles III, after sending the royal family a letter in May last year. The Council shared news with The King, of the ‘Big Help Out’ initiative carried out

by West Moors Litter heroes. The letter said how very successful the litter pick was with 40 people joining in on the Bank Holiday Monday, in the rain.

The letter from Buckingham Palace, written on 3 January 2024 and signed by Head of Royal Correspondence, reads: “The King has asked me to thank you for your kind letter, in which you shared a little about the commendable voluntary efforts of the local community during the Coronation ‘Big Help Out’ initiative.

“His Majesty was interested to learn of the success of your local litter pick, and greatly appreciated the efforts of all the volunteers who were involved.

“Thank you once again for taking the time to write to The King as you did, who would have me enclose a special Coronation card and convey to you his warmest good wishes.”

The card, which features a photo of The King and Queen Camilla, is pictured.

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VIEWPOINT February 2024

A Town Council spokesperson said: “Receiving warmest good wishes and enormous gratitude from His Majesty King Charles III is an amazing experience for West Moors Town Council, and it would not be so without the opportunity given, to boast of our wonderful volunteers, which we are exceptionally proud of, for all the time they give to this community. They are the glue that holds this community together, making it a better place to live.”

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Have a laugh and raise funds for charity A night of comedy is being held at The Black Cherry in Bournemouth in aid of Dorset’s Disability Charity, Diverse Abilities.

The Comedy Night will be held on Friday, 23 February, with engaging storyteller Sunjai Arif as the MC. Sunjai is joined by stand-up comedian Will Robbins who is also one half of TikTok sensation The Lovely Boys, and Nathan D’Arcy Roberts, an award-winning stand-up, screenwriter and actor.

Demi Tarrant, events executive at Diverse Abilities, said: “We can’t wait to host our third Comedy Night at The Black Cherry. It will be a great way to spend a February evening with Will Robbins, Nathan D’Arcy Roberts and Sunjai Arif to entertain you.”

The event kicks off at 8pm, with The Black Cherry serving a range of snacks and tasty meals including pizzas and nachos to enjoy before the entertainment begins.

Early bird tickets are now available from £15 at diverseabilities.org.uk/events2024/comedy.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Make your retirement a happy time

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk Actress Judi Dench is still working at the age of 89 and being 86 doesn’t stop Jilly Cooper producing best selling books but most people have to face the fact that they will have to retire at some time.

But are you ready for this dramatic change in your life pattern?

The first thing you should do is decide how you’re going to spend it. Creating a retirement checklist or setting yourself goals and aspirations will provide a structure, which may be lacking once you have stopped working.

Assuming you have pension plans in place, you may need to take some advice from a financial advisor. You should also take legal advice if you haven’t made a Will and get one in place.

Also important is a Lasting Power of Attorney for health and welfare and for property and financial affairs to ensure someone you

trust can make decisions for you if at any time you become unable to do this yourself.

Retirement is also a time to question whether your family home is still suitable for your needs. Rattling around in a large property with an unmanageable garden can take the shine off your much longed for leisure hours, so retirement is a time to think about whether you should downsize. If so, think about such issues as a new home being close to local amenities and whether there is a regular bus service, should you decide to give up driving.

Choosing a home in a complex makes a lot of sense for widows and widowers as it provides sociability and security.

We are lucky in this country that most people can look forward to many years of retirement, enjoying the hobbies and outings that in the past they didn’t have time to pursue.

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

Would you like a treat courtesy of Pulford Publicity?

Then enter this competition for your chance to win £60 to shop locally from one of the advertisers on this feature (pages 24 and 25). You can put your voucher towards purchasing anything from one of the businesses of your choice. When entering the competition, you must include the name of the business where you want to spend your money.

Have a look at the advertisements. There is something for everyone on this double page spread from entertainment to pest control, eating out to cooking it yourself, clothing, pampering, car repairs, garage doors, travel and much more. Go on spoil yourself.

All you have to do is find the following postcodes and correctly name the businesses to which they refer and submit the names of the businesses in the order shown: (1) BH21 1HS (2) BH23 1AS (3) BH24 1DN (4) BH31 6HA

Enter online at www.dorsetview.co.uk Terms and conditions: Closing date is 14 March 2024. The £60 voucher will only be usable at one nominated business and no change will be given.

There is no cash alternative. The voucher is valid for three months from date of issue and its value if not spent is £0.001p.

The winner’s details will be passed to the nominated business to facilitate the prize. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd are not permitted to enter. The editor’s decision is final.

er h c Vou

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£

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£

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* COMPETITION * COMPETITION * COMPETITION COMPETITION BUSINESS * | COMMUNITY | UNITY

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Parking subsidy scheme for Ringwood withdrawn

CLOSED: Dudsbury Hotel and Spa

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

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.

Sole trader 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 the support and kindness they have shown His aim is to sell the business in April and he said: “My heart never wants to let go of the club, as it’s been such a big part of my life but I now accept I must.”

A motion by the Mayor of Ringwood, Cllr Gareth DeBoos to subsidise low-income employees of Ringwood town centre businesses to assist in the purchase of a New Forest District Council Parking Clock 2024 Long Stay has been withdrawn The council had received over 100 representations from residents and businesses concerned about the increased cost; however members of the council were not prepared to support the motion.

They argued that no costings had been provided;

there were other ways to support people in need; it would set a precedent; it would only help a limited number of people; it would be a mis-use of tax payers’ money; there was insufficient detail of how the scheme would operate and the Council

would have no control; it would be subsidising employers who aren’t paying their employees the living wage.

Instead members felt the Council should be expressing concern to NFDC about the high increases and asking for this to be reviewed.

A cheque for £346 was presented to the charity Going for Bust by Karen who runs Slimming World in West Moors. The amount was raised by the members following their Christmas raffle. Going for Bust is a local charity raising funds exclusively for hospitals and support groups in the fight to combat breast cancer.

Family pays tribute ‘Any Questions?’ to Stephanie Hodgkinson The Mowlem Theatre at Swanage is hosting BBC Radio 4’s ‘Any Questions?’ on 8 March Tickets are free but must be booked with a maximum of four per person. The show is broadcast live on Radio 4 on Friday following the 8pm news. Many figures of note have appeared as panellists including past and present leaders of the political parties. Currently around 1.59 million people listen to the programme each week with many hearing the Saturday lunchtime repeat at 1.10pm followed at 2pm by the ‘Any Answers?’ phone in. This gives listeners a chance to join in the debate by calling or emailing Anita Anand.

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VIEWPOINT February 2024

Mother of two Stephanie Hodgkinson

The family of Stephanie Hodgkinson, 34, a Bournemouth woman murdered by a Fordingbridge vet have paid tribute to the mum of two.

Stephanie’s family said: “As a family, being without Stephanie is unimaginable and unbearable. We cling to the fact that we are so blessed to have had Stephanie in /dorsetview.news

our lives, and to know that she will be with us always, in spirit and in our hearts.

“Stephanie had her whole life in front of her and had such plans for herself and her beautiful boys. In the short time they had together, their lives were full of love and laughter, fun and adventure.”

Fordingbridge vet, Alberto Fioletti, 31, was found guilty in December of the murder following a four-week trial at Bournemouth Crown Court. He was sentenced on Monday 15 January to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 15 years.

At around 12pm on 12 May 2023, the defendant and the victim arranged to meet at the victim’s home in Rosemount Road to discuss their sevenmonth relationship that had ended the week before.

Fioletti became angry and brutally attacked Stephanie. @Dorset_View

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The ambulance service received an emergency call at 12.17pm from the defendant stating: ‘I killed my girlfriend’ and the police were notified.

Officers forced entry to the address and very sadly, Stephanie was found dead having sustained a number of stab wounds to the chest.

Fioletti was arrested at the scene.

Fioletti sentenced to life imprisonment

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The Solent’s breeding coastal birds given a helping hand A new project led by the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust is set to boost numbers of threatened wading birds whilst also encouraging terns to return to a historically important breeding site along the Solent coastline The Gravelly Shores project will create a new protected coastal vegetated shingle habitat on the Beaulieu Estate in the New Forest. The estate is already home to around 50% of the Solent region’s breeding population of Ringed Plover and an important site for breeding Oystercatcher.

Ringed Plover is a high conservation priority red-listed species, reflecting steep national declines in their wintering and breeding populations.

It is hoped that the new shingle habitat, covering an area of approximately 1.7 hectares, will also encourage Common, Little and Roseate terns - which no longer breed here, to return to what was historically one of the most important tern breeding sites in the UK. Within the Solent region, increased

human pressure and disturbance has reduced the amount of suitable shingle nesting habitat for shorebirds, and where it occurs it is affected by coastal erosion and sea level rise. The new shingle area will be created above the high-water mark on a site with restricted access, and nesting birds will be protected by an electric fence to help deter predators.

The project team will also trial other non-lethal predation management techniques across the North Solent National Nature Reserve, to reduce losses of wader nests and chicks to predators.

Mike Short, from the GWCT who will lead the two-year project, said: “Aside from creating a new nesting habitat that’s resilient to climate change and coastal erosion, this exciting project will enable us to evaluate nest protection cages and

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other management tools to aid breeding wader recovery across the reserve and wider Solent region.”

Gravelly Shores is a partnership between GWCT, Natural England and the Beaulieu Estate. It is funded by Natural England’s Species Recovery Programme Capital Grant Scheme which has awarded £14.5million to 63 conservation projects in support of species recovery.

Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, said: “Nature is in drastic decline all around us, with England now one of the most nature depleted countries on Earth.

“Many once common animals and plants are much reduced with some 15% of species at risk of becoming extinct here.

“It’s a dire situation but can still be turned around.”

Visit www.dorsetview.co.uk for more local news

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Editor required – come and join the professionals After 21 years, Pulford Publicity’s editor is retiring The editor is important to the smooth running of the company and if you have the skills and enthusiasm, now is your chance to apply.

You must be a passionate writer with journalistic qualifications (NCTJ minimum) who loves a challenge.

Every day is different and being community spirited and providing accurate and balanced reporting is vital.

As is the ability to thrive off deadlines. There are five in-house community magazines to edit. You should be intuitive, accurate, reliable and caring. The job includes occasional out of hours work to cover vital stories,

Janine

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events, live performances, meetings and meal reviews.

Janine Pulford said: “The position will suit a qualified journalist who also has a good knowledge of a news website and social media content and can apply their ability to creating posts that pop! And if you like writing food reviews, theatre reviews and interviewing people, now’s your chance. It sounds glamorous and it definitely has its moments. Some of my favourite times have been reporting on royal events and attending functions. On the other end of the spectrum, I love reporting on those who conquer adversity or work hard

Ben

Louis

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to improve their communities.

That’s probably why I’ve been in the job for so long.

“My team is invaluable. I work closely with professionals.

There’s experienced news editor Marilyn Barber, qualified proof-reader Rebecca Smith, and journalism student Jecs Davies who give me excellent support.

“Managing director, Ben, oversees the office and keeps on top of the finances with Nick; design director Louis and his assistant Dexter produce some of the best design work locally; Mark and Simon dedicate their time and energy to marketing, and Mike keeps on top of

Dexter

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Simon

Mark

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distribution. You won’t meet a more hardworking bunch of people who are passionate about what they do and enjoy a bit of banter along the way.

“If you feel you can fit into this type of cohesive office environment and have all the right qualifications, can use a camera, and have a full driving licence, why not send me your CV?” Email to janine@dorsetview.co.uk.

Janine adds: “After 25 years in journalism, I now want to devote time to my fiction writing and wish the next editor well.

For someone with the right credentials and work ethos, being an editor at Pulford Publicity is a dream job.”

Mike

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Nick

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foodie news

Treat Mum to a meal on Mother’s Day

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

What do modern mums want on Mother’s Day? Not to have to think about what to cook and to get ready to enjoy a meal that they haven’t had to prepare The origins go way back to the 16th century with the custom of Mothering Sunday which fell on the fourth Sunday of Lent. People would go to the church where they were baptised or their local church, for a service.

In later times, Mothering Sunday became a time when domestic servants were given a day off to visit their church, usually with their own mothers and other family members. It was often the only time that whole families could gather together, since on other days they were prevented by conflicting working hours, and servants were not given free days on other occasions.

However, it does have pagan origins, dating back to the ancient Greeks, who during their annual spring festival paid tribute to maternal goddesses. In Greek mythology, a key figure was Rhea, wife of Cronus, who was the mother of various gods and goddesses.

Coming closer to the present day, Mother’s Day was founded by American social activist Anna Jarvis who, although

she didn’t have children, wanted to make an occasion to honour the sacrifices mothers make for their children.

Inspired by Anna Jarvis, Constance Penswick-Smith created the Mothering Sunday Movement in the UK, and in 1921 she wrote a book asking for the renewal of the festival. Its wide scale revival was through the influence

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of American and Canadian soldiers serving abroad during World War II. Mother’s Day is celebrated on 10 March this year, so do show Mum that she is someone very special and take her out for lunch or an evening meal. It’s such a splendid way for the family to socialise and to give that special person a memorable treat.

Visit www.dorsetview.co.uk for more local news

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around & about / what’s happening in your area.

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

Until 28 February 9-5pm

Wimborne Art Club Exhibition at Wimborne Community Centre 41-44 King Street, BH21 1EA.

16-18 February 12-4pm

Snowdrop days in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance at 10, Ryan Close, Ferndown, BH22 9TP.

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

19 February 10.30-11.30am

28 February 7.30pm

20 February 8pm

28 February 2.30pm-4.30pm

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

Wimborne Civic Society meets in the Quarterjack Suite at the Allendale Centre.

20-24 February

Broadstone Players present ‘Losing Louis’ at Broadstone War Memorial Hall. Tickets from honsec@broadstoneplayers. co.uk, or phoning 01202 678449.

24 February 10am

Verwood Litter Pick at Skate Park, Potterne Park. Contact For more info: cllr.gibson@hotmail.co.uk

24 February 12noon-4.30pm

Bournemouth Orchid Society spring show at the Hamworthy Club, Canford Magna, BH21 3AP.

25 February 4pm

Bournemouth Chamber Music Society recital in Kimmeridge House, Bournemouth University, BH12 5BB. Tickets www. bournemouthchambermusic. co.uk or at the door.

Broadstone Music Series presents The Kyan String Quartet at Broadstone Methodist Church, 210 Lower Blandford Road, BH18 8DP. Advanced online booking at www.broadstonemusicseries.info.

Wimborne Rotary presents Jazz at the Allendale with Swing Unlimited Big Band. Admission free, tickets available at the doors.

Fordingbridge Garden Club meets at 7.30pm at Avonway Community Centre, 36 Shaftesbury Street, SP6 1JF.

Bournemouth Folk Dance Club meets every Monday at the Annunciation Church Hall, 218 Charminster Road, Bournemouth BH8 9RW. See www.bfdc.club

West Parley Gardening Club meets 7.30pm at the MS Centre, West Parley. Contact Rod Darch 01202 896711.

Email: rod@rdconsulting.co

19 February 7.30pm

19 February 7.30-10pm

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VIEWPOINT February 2024

26 February 7.30pm

27 February

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Ringwood Antiques Club meets for a talk on ‘The Murder of Harry Oakes’ in the Greyfriars Hall.

RSPB New Forest Local Group field trip at Blackwater Arboretum (SU 268 047), Meet in the Blackwater car park, off Rhinefield Arboretum Ornamental Drive. 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.

2 March 2-5pm

The Fordingbridge Choral Society “Come & Sing” event at the Fordingbridge United Reformed Church in Salisbury Street. For more info call the secretary on 01425 656348.

2 March 10am-12noon

Broadstone Fundraising Group for Cancer Research UK coffee morning at the United Reformed Church Hall, Blandford Road.

3 March 2-4pm

Ferndown Arthritis and Friendship Club meets at Ferndown Plus Day Centre. For more info O3303 112793.

4 March 10.30-11.30am

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

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4 March 9.50am for 10am start Wimborne Minster WI presents a gentle Pilates session at the Catholic Church Hall in Lewens Lane. Call Jill Haywood on 01202 888194.

4 March 7.30pm

Wimborne Gardening Club meets in the Allendale Community Centre for a talk on Wilding Wimborne.

6 March 2pm

Lytchett & Upton Floral Club meets at CJs Lytchett Minster Church.

7 March 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall Details www. verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk or call Ollie on 01202 827622.

7 March 7.15-9.15pm

The Ferndown & District Historical Society meet in the Longham Room at the Barrington Centre.

8 March 7.30pm

Charity fashion show featuring fashions from 1960s and 1970s at the Allendale Centre. Tickets from www.theallendale.org/ tickets or the Allendale Centre.

9 March 10am-3pm

RSPB New Forest Local Group field trip to Arne RSPB reserve near Wareham (SY 972 878, BH20 5BJ). Meet in the reserve’s car park by the information centre.

Tel 01425 652864 https:// group.rspb.org.uk/newforest/

11 March 2.30pm

West Moors Horticultural Society meets in the Memorial Hall. Contact Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536.

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around & about

Tivoli looks forward to a bumper 2024 – and beyond

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk When you ask someone how their business is going, and you get the response ‘fantastic at the moment’ you know you are going to have an upbeat interview.

Charlie North Lewis, general manager of the Tivoli Theatre was reflecting on the huge success of the Wimborne theatre’s panto season which saw record attendances for Made to Measure’s production of ‘Cinderella’.

“December was a brilliant month as we also had a fantastic evening with rhythm and blues band Nine Below Zero, who are coming back on 1 February next year,” he said.

Live shows are continuing to be well supported, but Charlie said he did have concerns about films.

“There used to be certain films that were really what I would call ‘Wimborne films’ which were sure to do well, but there don’t seem to be so many as there used to be.”

He added that the abundance of films available on streaming networks was having an adverse effect on cinemas across the country.

“Having said that, undoubtedly people still enjoy the whole experience of going to the cinema. It’s a good evening out.”

However, such is the popularity of the theatre for live performances that Charlie is being asked for dates for 2026!

In July this year Charlie will celebrate 22 years at the Art Deco theatre, during which time he has welcomed to the stage such rock icons as Ronnie Wood and the late Charlie Watts.

He does have his favourite performers and said that Francis Rossi from Status Quo and Marty Wilde are some of the nicest people he knows.

“Marty will be back again in December this year and I am hoping we will see Andy Fairweather Low too as he produces one of the best evenings,” said Charlie.

He is also proud that Aled Jones, who is celebrating more than 40 years in the business, is starting his tour at the Tivoli on Wednesday 20 March.

Acts he would like to attract include a return visit from Robert Plant, plus Chris Isaak, Nick Lowe and Stray Cats.

Charlie has high praise for

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Wimborne Drama Productions who are staging ‘Some Mothers Do ‘Ave Em’ from 21 to 24 February.

“They are all good actors and so professional,” he said.

It is well known that many people choose to live in Wimborne because it has a theatre, but audiences aren’t just comprised of local people, with many travelling from Ringwood, Fordingbridge and Southampton, and on occasions from London.

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around & about / what’s happening in your area.

Treat in store for Star Trek Trekkies A Star Trek Trekkie? If so, don’t miss out on a special screening of a classic sci-fi film at the Ocean Theatre in the Pavilion, Bournemouth.

Taking place on 16 March, the event is being organised by Mike Bradley and other film nuts and trekkies who have greatly enjoyed a whole host of classic screenings in the area over the past few years. Organiser Mike Bradley said: “But no one shows classic Star Trek films and there’s only one classic ‘Trek film we could put on first – ‘Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan’. We’re doing this for love, not money.”

Profits will go to Julia’s House and Dogs for Autism. Tickets available from the Pavilion box office www.pdsw.org.uk

Half Term Fun at the Museum of East Dorset 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 our current exhibition: May The Toys Be With You. This special workshop will be free as part of the 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.

For 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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motoring

Help shape travel and transport across Dorset If you have a view on transport issues across Dorset, you have until 2 March to have your say.

Dorset Council and BCP Council are running a survey to gather feedback and experiences.

People are being asked what they think are the key opportunities and issues to help the councils develop a new joint Local Transport Plan to travel easily around the county, whilst protecting its special landscape.

The survey covers a range of transport related topics, such as: improving transport in rural areas and reducing congestion; ensuring all ages and abilities can access services; making it easier for people to be more physically active; providing more opportunities for affordable, available and accessible public transport; helping people feel safer on our roads and on public transport and improving digital and real-time travel information.

The survey, along with all the information you need on the Local Transport Plan can be found online at www.dorsetcouncil. gov.uk/local-transport-plan Paper copies and assistance is available at Dorset Council and BCP Council libraries.

The analysis of all the feedback received will take place during the spring, and reporting will follow in the summer.

Watch out, thieves about Three vehicle thefts were reported in Ringwood and Ibsley on 21 and 22 January.

A silver Ford Transit was reported stolen from Parkside, Ringwood between 7.15pm and 7.30pm on Sunday 21 January.

Incident number 44240030469. An excavator (Takeuchi) was reported stolen from North Poulner Road, Ringwood between 8pm on 21 January and 10.30am on Monday 22 January.

Incident number 44240030628.

And a Fiat 500 Lounge was reported stolen from Salisbury Road, Ibsley between 8.30pm and 10pm on 22 January.

Incident number 44240031826.

If you witnessed anything suspicious, or have any information please report online using the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website or call 101.

Government cracks down on disruptive roadworks A crackdown on disruptive roadworks could cut congestion for millions of drivers and generate up to £100 million extra to resurface roads, as the first key measures from the Government’s Plan for Drivers which was delivered on 15 January.

Roads Minister Guy Opperman has launched a street works consultation on a series of measures to prevent utility companies from letting roadworks overrun.

The consultation seeks to extend the current £10,000 per day fine for overrunning street works into weekends and bank holidays as a deterrent for working on the busiest days for road travel.

Currently, they are only fined for disruption on working days. The measures could double fines from £500 up to a maximum of £1,000 for companies who breach conditions of the job, such as working without a permit.

Launched on National Pothole Day, the consultation is part of a series of measures from the Government’s 30-point Plan for Drivers.

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in the home / home is where the heart is .

New wallpapers evoke seaside memories “She sells sea shells on the sea shore” is a tongue twister that springs to mind when looking at this new collection of wallpaper by Abigail Edwards.

Abigail Edwards said: “Shells Wallpaper is inspired by shells collected on family holidays over the years, each shell holding a myriad of happy, carefree memories.”

Depicting simply sketched seashells, hand drawn by Abigail, Shells Wallpaper invites you to rediscover the uncomplicated joys of listening to the whisper of the waves whilst collecting shells on the beach.

A visual collection of moments spent by the shore. Subtle hues of peach, oyster and sandy neutrals, evoke the tranquil colours of the coast.

From afar, the wallpaper appears to be composed of stripes as the shells float in their mollusc groups, but on closer inspection, the delicate forms of the individual shells become clear, and intricate patterns of scallop shells and cockles emerge mixed with spirals of nautiluses amongst a treasure trove of other seashells.

The new Shells Wallpaper is added to the

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Abigail Edwards collection of wallpapers, fabrics, tiles and rugs.

Shells Wallpaper is available from www.abigailedwards.com in four colourways: Scallop, Cockle, Ocean, all £118 a roll, and Watercolour (printed from the original watercolour pencil sketch) £198 a roll. Rolls are 10m long and 52cm wide.

Eco Credentials Abigail Edwards was one of the first companies to embrace ECO grade wallpaper. It is printed in the UK using nontoxic water-based ink and a tree is planted for every roll of wallpaper sold.

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Mayor’s charity fashion show Wimborne Minster Town Council on behalf of the mayor are holding a charity fashion show at The Allendale Community Centre on Friday 8 March at 7.30pm, The event will be showcasing clothing and accessories from the 1960s and 1970s telling personal stories of the garments that are modelled.

There will also be a prize draw. All profits will be donated to the mayor’s charities Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled and Wimborne Model Town and Gardens. Tickets from www.theallendale.org/ tickets or the Allendale Centre.

NEWS IN BRIEF Police station to home: a retrospective application to change the police station at 1 Station Road, Fordingbridge into a home has been submitted to New Forest District Council.

Property refusal: New Forest District Council has refused permission for land at 37 Denholm Close, Poulner, Ringwood to be used to build a new property.

Register your appliances: Dorset Trading Standards are getting behind a national campaign for people to register their domestic appliances, old or new, so manufacturers can get in touch in case of a safety repair or recall. To find out more visit: www.registermyappliance.org.uk/.

Olivia Sparkhall, who runs Fordingbridge Musical Theatre Choir, is up for an award. Her book, on everything young people need to know in order to look after their voices, has been shortlisted as a finalist for the Music & Drama Education Awards 2024 in the category ‘Outstanding Music Education Print Resource’. The prestigious awards ceremony takes place at the London Marriott Grosvenor Square on the 22 February 2024.

Volunteers are being sought for Marie Curie’s Great Daffodil Appeal. You can help during March and April by distributing the iconic daffodil pins in exchange for donations to help raise funds for the charity. Last year supporters helped Marie Curie provide direct care to more than 44,200 people across the UK via its nine hospices and through overnight nursing care in people’s own homes. Pictured is Marie Curie campaign manager Amy Dreszle. To volunteer email kara. frampton@mariecurie.org.uk or call 07712 691510. Daffodil pins are also available from Superdrug stores this March.

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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

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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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