Viewpoint March 2024

By Marilyn Barber

Museums

so much to enrich our

towns and villages, helping us to learn from the past, but sadly our local museums are facing challenges which could impact on their survival. Read the article on pages 4, 5 and 7, which includes comments from the general public.

New collaboration announced between The Furlong and The Barn

Dear Readers!

It’s not very often that I can say that I am the envy of all my friends.

I haven’t bought a new car or booked a luxurious holiday, but I have got an empty loft.

Wow you’re saying – that’s impressive.

Some people have admitted to me that they’re not too sure what is lurking amongst the rafters, whilst others know there are items as diverse as beds, discarded kitchen appliances and school books up there.

A recent cold spell made me realise that my 1960s house was chillier than a friend’s much more modern home, so I arranged for someone to fit some super thick insulation. This would certainly make environmental sense and would reduce my heating bills.

However, before he accepted the job the fitter asked me if there was a a lot of rubbish up there.

I’ve lived in my house for more than 21 years, but I was pretty sure there wasn’t much but ‘if he could kindly hand down to me whatever there was, I would be extremely grateful’.

What treasures would I discover?

Sadly nothing of value and the mundane list included a very large heavy suitcase containing a duvet; an ancient squash racquet with damaged strings; an old picnic basket; a large screen for showing slides and a bag of teddy bears which have gone to new homes.

And on the subject of teddies, Viewpoint has now named the STARS Dorset Trauma Teddies – turn to page 11 for the winners.

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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Museums tell Viewpoint how they are facing financial challenges

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Realising the importance of these iconic buildings, which build a sense of community identity, Viewpoint contacted some local museums to find out how they were coping with the challenges of the 21st century.

The Museum of East Dorset - formerly the Priest’s House Museum – was established by the owner of the building Hilda Coles in 1962 and she ran it for 25 years until her death in 1987.

Extensions followed and in 2020, following a major fundraising campaign and a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the building was restored and refurbished as the Museum of East Dorset.

Chezzie Hollow, director, said: “With a £25,000 annual reduction in local government funding and energy prices doubling, this is a particularly challenging time for the museum which already operates at a loss. As a charity at the heart of the local community,

we rely on the generosity of our supporters to ensure that we can continue to deliver our impressive community work, our award-winning learning programme and a comprehensive onsite and outreach programme for those with dementia. There are many ways to help towards the running costs of the museum: from becoming a Member of the Trust or making a donation, to enjoying refreshments in the Garden Tea Room, attending an event, buying a gift or secondhand book from the shop and, of course, visiting the museum.

“If you don’t want to lose us, please support us in any way you can – it really does make a difference.”

The Russell Cotes Museum in Bournemouth has made no secret of its financial challenges.

A spokesperson said: “Small local museums house and preserve an enormous amount of local heritage. Financial

support is wonderful when we can get it, but it is currently thin on the ground. Having said that, there is almost nothing museums funded or not, cannot accomplish with volunteers. My wish at this point would not be for more money, it would be for more volunteers to join our museum community.”

Opened in 1998 as the Jet Heritage Museum and based in the Heritage Hangar at Bournemouth Airport, a year later it was renamed the Bournemouth Aviation Museum. It moved to its present site near to Adventure Wonderland in 2008.

Chairman Neil Hallett said: “In spite of the current problems with finances we are doing OK. Our admission charge makes it possible for a family of two adults and two children to have a good time out, and because of this we have a successful footfall. This has enabled us to finance

an expansion to the museum which will add to the attraction over the coming months.”

A spokesperson for Hampshire Cultural Trust, which operates Red House Museum and Gardens in Christchurch, said: “The value of visiting museums, participating in events, enjoying exhibitions cannot be underestimated – over 600,000 people visit our venues every year, and 15,000 school pupils benefit from immersive education programmes.

“Along with many sectors, the heritage and culture sector has faced a tough time recovering from the pandemic, exacerbated by the cost-of-living crisis and inflationary pressures, which have had a massive impact on costs. To counter this as an organisation, Hampshire Cultural Trust has a robust business plan in place focussing on income generation from

a number of areas, including revenue from admissions, our cafés and shops, and of course fundraising, so that we can continue to offer cultural experiences that are accessible to all members of our community.”

Poole Museum, opened as the Waterfront Museum in 1989 and now owned and operated by BCP Council it being transformed. The buildings closed to the public at the end of 2022 and work costing £7.7 million, supported by funding, is taking place.

Project manager, Alison Smith at BCP Council said: “The redevelopment project has been concerned with tackling the challenges that faced Poole Museum – that includes pressures on Council funding for non-statutory services, outdated public access and facilities that could no longer cope with increasing visitor numbers, important new maritime archaeological discoveries and collections we were unable to display, and major repairs needed to our historic

buildings – including two Grade I listed medieval buildings.”

Dorset Museum and Art Gallery, which too is facing financial challenges, was contacted for a comment which is still awaited.

Fordingbridge Museum is run entirely by volunteers and receives no public money.

Trustee Julian Hewitt, and author of the Fordingbridge Museum column in this magazine said: “The museum is free to the public but we do ask for voluntary donations from visitors. We also raise money by organising fundraising events. The Covid lockdown did mean that we had no income so that we relied on our reserves and donations from local businesses to pay for energy bills and other expenses.

“Now that we are open again our funding is returning to previous levels. Our main problem is attracting new volunteers to act as stewards or to work behind the scenes. Since the disruption caused by Covid attracting volunteers has become more difficult.”

Continued on page 7

Meet Courage, Serenity, Wiggles and Ziggy

The fifth bear is yet to be named with the competition closing on 14 March.

“Our readers are fantastic,” said the editor of Viewpoint, Janine Pulford. “Thank you for the hundreds of name suggestions for our Trauma Teddies, who are on loan from the charity, STARS Dorset.”

There were so many brilliant names submitted that Viewpoint, Dorset View, STARS Dorset and Wimborne Model Town had to get together to make the choices. The bears are thrilled with their names. This is what they said:

“Ziggy is a boy or a girl’s name and means ‘victorious protector’. This amazing name was sent in by Amanda Greensmith from Bishops Waltham. Ziggies also talk too much and are really cool. That’s me!”

“Hi, I’m Wiggles, named by Nigel Trickett from West Moors who noticed I am a wiggly bear. I can be clumsy too. When I went on toad patrol recently, I jumped for joy after finding my first toad and ended up in a ditch.”

“My new name, Courage, means so much to me as I am one of the smaller bears and also hard of hearing with my teeny tiny ears. Mel from Wareham sent in the perfect name.”

“Serenity suits me exactly as I’m calm and unflappable. Thank you JanieFleur Matcham from Millbrook, Southampton for sending in the name.”

All the winners receive a family season ticket to Wimborne Model Town, which can be used throughout the season. The model town is home to the Wareham Bears and the miniature Wimborne bears. An exciting event is being planned for all the bears, including the Trauma Teddies on 25 and 26 May at Wimborne Model Town so watch this space for more details.

Continued from page 5

Financial challenges faced by museums

Julian Hewitt continued: “Our volunteers love being part of the museum family, meeting visitors from all over the world and helping in the creative work of designing the displays and preserving the artefacts. They also enjoy engaging with schools and local organisations. If you would like to become a volunteer visit fordingbridgemuseum.co.uk.”

Viewpoint carried out a vox pop to ask local people if they had visited museums in the last year.

Adrian Thomas from Verwood said he had been to a museum in Dorchester and planned to go to the Kimmeridge Bay Museum to see the Sea Rex. He said: “I like going to the local museums because I am originally from Wales. Then I moved here and it’s always nice to explore new places.”

Barbara Winter from Ringwood said she went to a museum while on holiday adding, “I like looking at the old buildings.”

Kathleen Varley from West Moors said she hadn’t been to a museum in the last year adding, “The reason why is because of transport. I don’t drive so I have to rely on buses.”

New Ringwood allotment rules following devastating fire

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Following a fire at the Southampton Road allotment site in January which caused considerable damage to the area, Ringwood Town Council’s recreation, leisure and open spaces committee has agreed measures to keep the area safe.

The town clerk told the committee that the fire had been started by an allotment tenant using a weed burning tool. It spread rapidly out of control to the hedge adjacent to the plot, which separates the site from properties in Kestrel Court. The fire service was called and extinguished the fire, but it caused significant damage to adjacent houses, two cars and the boundary hedge. The allotment tenant is not insured for public liability. The Council’s insurers have been informed of the incident.

The town clerk added that a temporary fence had been put in place by the grounds team to

create a barrier, but a permanent solution was needed. The title register says nothing about boundary ownership, so there is no clear legal responsibility to do this, but he suggested that the Council should fence in the land and replace the boundary.

At the meeting, residents of Kestrel Court spoke about the impact of the incident on them and the resulting damage to their property. Emotionally they had been extremely affected, terrified at the time, not feeling safe in their homes, struggling to sleep and they continue to have concerns about the potential of it happening again. Their homes had been damaged and they were going to suffer financially.

Consequently the committee resolved that that flame weedkillers will not be permitted on any of the Council’s allotment sites with immediate effect; that bonfires will not be permitted on the allotment sites at Hightown

Road, Southampton Road and Crow Arch Lane with immediate effect; that there will be a full review of the allotment rules, which will include consideration of the requests made in the neighbours’ correspondence and a fire safety assessment; that as a matter of urgency, the town clerk seek legal advice on whether the Council is able to terminate the tenancy of the relevant plot; and that residents be kept informed and invited to any meeting where this matter is considered further.

The town’s policy and finance committee is to be asked that a close-boarded fence of at least 1.8m in height be erected along the boundary in place of the hedge; and that as a matter of urgency, the town clerk investigate whether the Council can lawfully supply contact details for the tenant of the relevant plot to the neighbours affected by the fire.

Bournemouth Air Festival will go ahead this year

2024 will be the last year that cash-strapped BCP Council will run Bournemouth Air Festival

It will take place from Thursday 29 August to Saturday 31 August, with a programme of world-class aerobatic displays and entertainment for all ages.

The council is now inviting expressions of interest from operators to manage and deliver Bournemouth Air Festival in its entirety from 2025 onwards. Interested parties must express an interest through the Council’s eTendering website.

Writing Festival promises to be a bestseller

The second Bournemouth Writing Festival will take place from Friday 26 to Sunday 28 April. The programme will offer over 100 town centre activities including a host of children’s events. New for 2024 is a Poetry and Flash Fiction Competition, as well as the chance for writers to pitch their manuscripts to

literary agents in personal 1-2-1 sessions. Also new for 2024 is the Poetry Hub, including a quirky poetry machine located in the Bandstand in the Lower Gardens. The main festival hub will be at Pavilion Dance South West. https://www. bournemouthwritingfestival. co.uk/

Council tax premium on second homes and empty houses

People owning second homes and properties that are left empty in Dorset are going to face higher charges. For those properties classified as LongTerm Empty and Unoccupied a 100% council tax premium will, from 1 April, be applied after one year rather than the existing two years.

In addition, the introduction of the 100% council tax premium on second homes will come into effect on 1 April 2025, making

a total council tax charge of 200%. Unlike empty dwellings, there is no requirement for a property to have been used as a second home for a fixed period of time before the premium can apply so it becomes chargeable from day one that a property is considered a second home (or dwelling periodically occupied). The Council has agreed to use 40% of the additional monies raised to support the delivery of affordable housing.

Salisbury man dies in collision

The family of Michal Kaminski from Salisbury who died following a fatal collision on the M27 on 21 February have paid tribute to him saying, “You will always be in our hearts and we will always remember you smiling.”

The serious multi-vehicle collision happened at junction five involving a Mercedes lorry, Nissan Juke and Volkswagen Polo.

Sadly, the driver of the lorry, 36-year-old Michal Kaminski was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 32-year-old man from Yapton, Arundel, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and of drink driving. A 40-year-old woman from Littlehampton was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving, of drink driving, and of drug driving. A 37-yearold man from Littlehampton was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving.

All three have been released on bail until 21 May while enquiries continue. Anyone with information or relevant dash cam footage should call the police on 101 quoting reference 44240076451.

CORRESPONDENCE

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

Dear Editor,

Spring is fast approaching, and with it the familiar sounds of the dawn chorus, as we listen out for the melodic Blackbird, the beautiful Song Thrush and the sweet serenade of the Blue Tit.

Birdsong is important to many of us – in new research from RNID, 73% of UK adults said they would miss the sounds of birds singing if they lost their hearing. On World Hearing Day (Sunday 3 March), RNID encouraged nature lovers to take a free online hearing check. Missing the high-pitched calls and trills of birds is common for people who are experiencing undiagnosed hearing loss, and as changes in your hearing can happen gradually, they can be difficult to spot.

Over 360,000 people have taken RNID’s online hearing check, and many of them tell us they can now enjoy hearing birds singing again thanks to their hearing aids. One person said, ‘There seem to be more birds in the garden!’ whilst another declared ‘I can hear birdsong in all its glory.’

It’s easy to take RNID’s online hearing check and it only takes three minutes – why not check your hearing today at rnid.org.uk

Crystal Rolf, Director for Health at RNID

Calling all volunteers who love the countryside

Dorset Countryside Volunteers (DCV), which this year celebrates 50 years of volunteer work in the county, is hoping to attract more people in order to continue its work. Almost every weekend of the year, whatever the weather, a small group of volunteers can be found doing handson nature conservation work somewhere in the Dorset countryside.

In winter, DCV typically carry out work such as grassland and heathland management, hedge laying and coppicing, whilst in warmer months the group can be found clearing litter from beaches, drystone walling, maintaining public footpath infrastructure, fencing, or removing Himalayan Balsam. The group is a charity which is entirely run by volunteers, from the people who programme and manage the various work weekends to the person sharpening the bowsaws.

The next local working party will be at Dunyeats Hill in Broadstone on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 March.

Anyone who wants to try out working with DCV will be given a warm welcome (under 18s are welcome but must be accompanied by a responsible adult).

Volunteers can choose how much time to give. Training, tools and hot drinks are all provided. Details of the group’s forthcoming tasks are available on the DCV website at https://www.dcv.org.uk/

Group co-ordinator coordinator@dcv.org.uk

Tel: 07923 498760

LETTER OF THE MONTH

Our best ever year, thank you Thank you for all the publicity you gave us for our Snowdrop Weekend at Damerham.

I try to do a straw poll of our visitors to find out how they heard of us. A large proportion said Viewpoint, especially if they lived around the West Moors/ Ferndown area.

This year was our best ever thanks to you.

John Godber, Church Warden St George’s, Damerham

Verna Barker, West Moors read details in Viewpoint

Bournemouth Pavilion

FREE open day

Matas Volungevicius

Grants available from Dorset Community Foundation

Dorset Community Foundation is inviting people to apply for grants from three funds.

The BCP Council UK Shared Prosperity Fund offers grants of up to £5,000 for volunteering and social action and capital grants of up to £3,000 for local groups to run community activities in community centres and village halls. This fund closes at midday on 29 March.

The Lord Lieutenant’s Fund for Young and Talented closes at midday on 5 April. It offers grants of up to £2,000 to young people age 14-21 who have an exceptional sporting talent but are struggling to meet the costs of progression. It can support with kit/clothing, competition fees, coaching, travel costs and accommodation. Last year the fund awarded £9,400 worth of grants to 13 young people. Among them was Rower Matas Volungevicius, 17, of Bournemouth, who used his £1,000 grant to buy more

equipment, including a rowing machine so he can train at home.

Full details of eligibility and how to apply can be found at dorsetcommunityfoundation.org funds/ lord-lieutenants-fund-young-talented/.

Applicants need to send a completed application, a recent bank statement and two letters of support (one ideally from a representative of the National Governing Body of their sport).

In addition, the SWEF Enterprise and Business Fund is open to applicants at any time.

It offers Enterprise and Business grants of up to £2,000 to young people age 18-30 who need financial support to take next steps in a new business in its first two years.

See the Dorset Community Foundations website for more information.

Bournemouth Pavilion will celebrate the magic of theatre, music and film at an annual open day on Saturday 13 April 2024 between 10am–4pm with guided tours. Learn more about the venue’s Compton organ, and watch vintage film excerpts and see other archive items. Children can take part in a fun quiz leading around the iconic venue. The open day includes a free to attend afternoon tea dance with live music to be provided by Elizabeth Harrison on keyboard.

And the next object is…

To celebrate their 11th birthday, the ladies of Blandford Evening WI held an evening of Call My Bluff, hosted by Morgan Antell and assistants.

Each item was presented with three plausible and logical explanations, but only one was true: A,B or C. It was not an easy task. The winning number of correct identifications was six with quite a few nil points.

Team Morgan presents these evenings as fundraisers for air ambulances. Morgan can be contacted on 01202 822869.

Di Hinton’s cakes disappeared in a very short space of time with all thoughts of diets and dietary restrictions banished to the wind.

One size doesn’t fit all

By Edward Holmes, Meesons and Spurlings

Modern life is very busy, and the speed of modern communications can be both good and bad. A wealth of information can be obtained online at great speed and provided it is correct can be helpful. Search engines and/or Artificial Intelligence sites can provide general guidance, but everyone’s personal position is unique and generic advice online may not fit your particular circumstances. There is no substitute for face-to-face tailored legal advice from Meesons and Spurling’s team of professionals. Here at Meesons and Spurlings we have embraced modern technology and combined it with our tried and tested practices to provide swift efficient, cost-effective legal advice.

One of our ‘members of staff’, (pictured), has found a novel use for our paper files which we still retain in tandem with our electronic files. When I asked him about his little nap, he did assure me that he had already read and answered 30 emails before 9am that morning. Please note that no files were damaged in the taking of this photograph and Charlie had a good sleep.

We at Meesons and Spurlings can assist with all your legal needs and please contact us today for our no obligation discussion.

Popular Fordingbridge spot being considered as designated bathing site

A popular spot on the Hampshire Avon could become a newly designated inland bathing water site.

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) announced on 26 February that the site has been shortlisted for the official designation, subject to the results of a two-week consultation period that ended on 10 March.

Fordingbridge Avon Bathers (FAB), a community group in Fordingbridge, Hampshire has been campaigning since April 2023 for their section of river to be recognised as an official bathing water.

Popular with swimmers and children paddling and playing in the water, the River Avon at Fordingbridge Recreation Ground is a vital resource for the town. A supporting survey showed that 98% of those

questioned supported the application, and highlighted how important the site was to the whole community.

When a location is officially designated, the Environment Agency has a responsibility to test the water quality during the bathing season. A bathing site will then receive a classification of Excellent, Good, Sufficient or Poor at the end of the bathing season. The regulator has a responsibility at Poor classified sites to prevent, reduce or eliminate the causes of pollution, and identify the reasons it didn’t receive a higher classification.

Adam Ellis, FLOW CIC (part of Fordingbridge Avon Bathers) said: “I worry that the next generation isn’t going to fall in love with the river and protect it if their parents are too scared to let them paddle. Getting bathing water

status will allow water users to make an informed choice, as well as driving further investigation and intervention into sources of pollution.”

Kirsty Davies from Surfers Against Sewage said:

“Passionate communities like Fordingbridge Avon Bathers are leading the way in applying for bathing water status to protect the health of their local waterways, and people’s health.”

Charity of the Year

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care support patient to relive his love of sailing

By the Lymphoedema Team

Richard was first referred to Lewis-Manning’s Lymphoedema Service by his head and neck cancer consultant at Poole hospital. We soon realised that his condition was not going to improve to a great degree because of the devastating surgery and radiotherapy he had had to undergo, however we were determined that we would offer any treatment available to us, to sustain his independence for as long as possible.

We treated him with Light Therapy and manual lymphatic drainage and taught Richard drainage techniques to help his swelling. He has been instrumental in keeping his

swelling stable as much as possible. He is conscientious with his drainage at home, even on his down days.

Richard was so determined – he continued working through this treatment. His face was so swollen in the mornings, he couldn’t see properly. His swelling made it so difficult for him to breathe, he couldn’t sleep properly. He was also fainting regularly due to lack of oxygen to his brain.

Around this time in his own words, Richard accepted the fact the medication had stopped working. He decided to stop his immunotherapy. The quality of his life was the most important thing for him and his family.

During a therapy session Richard told us how disappointed he was, a friend had come up from Lymington to take him out on his boat, but his friend and sister were very nervous to let him go because of his condition. The team spoke about this afterwards and thought how wonderful it would be to arrange a boat trip, accompanied by nurses because of his unpredictable condition.

We had such a short window of opportunity while Richard was still well enough. The team rallied together to organise the trip with a kind local supporter of the charity who provided his boat and time

without charge. He treated Richard with kindness and respected his knowledge.

On a sunny day in early October, Richard and two of our nurses took off across the water from Christchurch to the Isle of Wight and back. It was so lovely to see him enjoying his trip. This meant a huge deal to Richard and gave him independence and some much needed man to man time.

The service LewisManning Hospice Care provide never stops at the physical treatment. It’s crucial to treat every patient holistically, with respect and dignity. It’s all about giving patients and their families the luxury of TIME.

Richard enjoying his trip

New Forest volunteering boost

Charities and public sector bodies have seen an increase in people wanting to volunteer thanks to the recent New Forest National Park Volunteer Fair that welcomed over 600 enthusiasts.

Over 40 exhibitors took part in the event held at Brockenhurst Village Hall on 28 January. New Forest Transition said 21 people joined them to help with sustainable living activities and Minstead Study Centre reported 15 sign-ups. Citizens Advice New Forest said it had had another fantastic year at the fair, recruiting seven new volunteers due to join them in the coming weeks.

This year’s fair focused on young people and included workshops for 13 to 30 year olds run by the NPA’s education and youth team, as part of the Youth for Climate and Nature (YouCAN) scheme.

The sessions considered how volunteering can support young people into green careers and included talks from Jamie Ward, last year’s New Forest Awards Young Environmental Champion winner; Dominic Reynolds who has volunteered in the New Forest for 15 years, and Arun Curson who won Young Environmental Champion in 2022.

Jamie said: “I think it’s very important that young people care for the New Forest and all the wildlife that is in it. Young people are the future of the Forest and will be hopefully preserving it for many years to come.”

Find out more about volunteering on the New Forest National Park Authority website: www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/ communities/volunteer/

New Forest volunteers YouCAN workshop

Lisa’s journey with breast cancer and lymphoedema

Lisa lives with her husband and two children in Ringwood.

When she was 42, she spotted a lump on her breast. Within weeks she was diagnosed with stage-two breast cancer.

Her and her family faced a gruelling year of treatment for Lisa, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy and lymph node removal surgery.

Sadly, one year later Lisa’s cancer returned. Her only option was to have an elective double mastectomy, in addition to other treatment.

“It was a shock. Telling the children I had to go through it again was particularly hard,” she said.

“I was overwhelmed, helpless, angry, sad and broken.

This was my next step of dealing with my cancer and another unfortunate opportunity in life to grow stronger and tackle cancer again, with the support from my family and friends. It was brutal.”

During this time Lisa was referred to LewisManning Hospice Care’s Lymphoedema Clinic. Linda, senior lymphoedema nurse said: “We started seeing her and delivered some intensive therapies including light therapy, physio-touch therapy, manual lymphatic drainage and SLD.”

Lisa said: “I count myself lucky because I had early intervention with Lewis-Manning.

“I needed to learn to live with lymphoedema and to my amazement my swelling

reduced significantly in a very short period of time.

“Knowledge empowers us breast cancer survivors to take charge of our own situations and early intervention provides the best chance for living a full life.”

Lisa has had a lifelong passion for swimming, being a former lifeguard in Bournemouth and a member of Team GB’s synchronised swimming team. Now, she is a swimming teacher for schools across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

Lewis-Manning will continue to support Lisa with check-ups and support in any other way the charity can.

WATCH: https://youtu. be/NHPVWm7w8e4

Britain’s biggest gigafactory to be built in Somerset

A gigafactory is to be built near Bridgwater and will be one of the largest of its kind in Europe. It is set to produce almost half the batteries needed to meet UK electric vehicle demands by 2035.

Karl Tucker, chair of the Great South West Partnership, said: “Our region is spearheading the country’s green and blue revolution, with the potential to add over £45billion to the economy by 2035.”

The South West’s assets, including clean energy projects and the gigafactory, will be vital to the country’s electric vehicle supply chain and the UK’s ambitions to eventually become net zero. The region is also home to the UK’s only lithium mines, the crucial tech metal needed to produce batteries for electric vehicles.

Agratas, Tata Group’s global battery business, has been confirmed as the operator of the gigafactory.

Probus club provides friendship

Part of a global Probus network, Verwood Probus Club draws membership from retired or semi-retired professional and businessmen and provides friendship and enjoyment for members through activities. They meet for lunch at Crane Valley Golf Club on the third Tuesday each month and follow with a speaker. In addition, members meet for coffee with partners on the first Tuesday in the month and

Hillside First School meets the Mayor

Hillside First School’s parliament made a special visit to meet The Mayor of Verwood to learn how local government works. Cllr Toni Coombs welcomed the children who are elected on to the school’s parliament which meets fortnightly. She answered questions and offered

the school £250 from her fund to buy litter pickers, sports equipment or books. The children voted for books. The mayor also allowed Tommy Lawes from Reception to try on her robes.

organise events throughout the year including an annual holiday, outings, a Christmas dinner and other social gatherings. Recent activities have included lunch at the Escoffier restaurant, a canal boat trip, and a holiday at Littlecote Manor.

If you’re interested in joining or finding out more, please contact the club’s secretary, Peter Richardson, or visit probusverwood.org.uk or call 07566 854764.

Verwood residents, local councillors, suppliers, and contractors recently joined together for the official opening by Dorset Council of a new play area on Eastwood Road.

The Mayor of Verwood with (right) Jasper Nash, chairperson of the school parliament, and Sienna Mills, deputy prime minister

Tommy Lawes

Verwood Rotary events and fundraising news

By Louisa Hiscock

As I write we are looking forward to celebrating the ‘birthday’ of our club at our annual Charter Evening. It is lovely to dress up for a special dinner, have live music to dance to and mark the founding of our club in 1988 with club members, partners and guests. The plan is always for the club to continue supporting and serving our local community for many more years.

Rotarian Roger Sweet was delighted to visit Hillside School in Verwood last

month. He met staff and pupils who showed him the equipment the club has recently funded for their exciting Outdoor Education programme. This included a Wi-Fi wildlife camera with motion activated night vision and a bird feeder camera station.

Our Big Band Dance with live music from ‘Swing Unlimited’ is coming up on Saturday 23 March from 7.30pm in Verwood Memorial Hall. Tickets are still only £13 and there will be a licensed bar. All funds raised are for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, (President Andy Maw’s chosen charity). Please help us raise funds for this great local charity supporting young people whilst enjoying a great evening out. Tickets can be purchased in advance from club members or give Vern a call on 01202 824005.

Our membership may have changed since 1988, but our enthusiasm remains strong. If anyone would like to join our club, there is always room for more. Contact us on enquiries@ verwoodrotary.org.uk or have a look at our website or Facebook.

Find out more about Vocalize Choir

Vocalize Choir is a pop, rock, soul and Motown choir based in Verwood that was formed in 2018. They now have 40 regular members from Verwood and the surrounding areas, and are very much one big family. They combine flawless vocal harmonies with slick choreography to create a vibrant and energetic performance for every show.

With a sellout show performed in February, they are already back in the rehearsal room working on their next incredible show. Keep an eye out on their Facebook page ‘Vocalize – Pop, Rock, Soul and Motown Choir’ for updates. They also have a website www.vocalizechoir.co.uk if you want to learn more.

Rotarian Roger Sweet meeting pupils at Hillside School

Treatment at your pharmacy

The NHS has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of the seven additional conditions that can now be treated by high street pharmacies, without needing to see a GP.

Launched at the end of January, patients can now get treatment and medicines from their local pharmacy for seven common conditions, covering sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated

urinary tract infections.

The Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, said: “Under our new Pharmacy First approach, it will become quicker, easier, and more convenient for people to access NHS care for seven common conditions locally.” He added the bold new approach will “free up to 10 million GP appointments per year…”

For more information, visit nhs.uk/ thinkpharmacyfirst

Fitness club with a difference

Are you finding your balance, flexibility and fitness are not what they used to be but are unsure what to do about it? You should check out Ferndown Fitness in Pennys Walk, Ferndown. It’s a club with a difference that offers personalised exercise programmes and as much help and guidance as you need from approachable,

knowledgeable staff. They now also offer a great selection of classes including Yoga, Balance Classes, Flex & Stretch Classes as well as Aerobic Classes to help with fitness. They can really help you get moving and get back into exercise at your own pace, so why not pop in or call 01202 855321 to have a chat or book a free guest visit.

Hospital porter wins national award

Colleagues who nominated Gordon To for an award described him as ‘quite simply an outstanding individual, and the best ambassador for portering imaginable’.

Gordon To, a porter from University Hospitals Dorset (UHD), has been recognised for his dedication to the NHS, winning in the ‘outstanding contribution to patient experience’ category at the My Porter Awards 2024.

There was a record breaking 300 entries for this year’s awards which are in association with NHS England.

Gordon said: “I couldn’t believe it when I got the call. Before becoming a porter I was a healthcare assistant, and my partner suggested I give portering a go. I love my job and work in a team that is great and full of support. This award means a lot to me and I feel thankful to have been recognised in this way.”

Two other porters from UHD also received award nominations. Joe Diffey was shortlisted for newcomer of the year, and Vaughn McIvor was a finalist for the Dennis Southern lifetime achievement award.

Gordon To on stage with his award

Steve Fletcher, John and Neto

Poole care home resident scores a goal

A Poole care home resident and life-long Cherries fan has scored a goal against the captain of his beloved football team.

John, who is a resident at Care South’s Elizabeth House in Dolberry Road, received a surprise visit from Cherries captain, Neto. John was a steward at AFC Bournemouth for 55 years before retiring from the role in July last year. He was thrilled to be reunited with Neto, and AFC Bournemouth legend, Steve ‘Fletch’ Fletcher, for a kickabout in the home’s communal living room.

The surprise experience was organised as part of an ongoing partnership with the AFC Bournemouth Community Sports Trust. The partnership enables residents, home care clients and staff to get involved in a range of activities including weekly seated football sessions, meeting players, coffee mornings, and visits to the Vitality Stadium.

Afterwards, John said: “It was fantastic. I loved it. I have always supported the Cherries, so it was brilliant to see Neto and Steve Fletcher. I loved being able to shake their hands, and chatting to Steve Fletcher, who supported me over the years while I was a steward at the stadium.”

John also got the opportunity to score some goals into a small pop-up goal being protected by Neto. It was a special moment for John’s family who also got to meet Neto and Fletch, including John’s grandson, Richard, who has taken over the steward role from his grandad. Richard said that he was very proud to be part of the special day, which was an experience ‘he’ll never forget’.

Stroke rehab trial for Dorset patients

The loss of movement following a stroke can be devastating, but now a new treatment has been introduced in Dorset to help people regain the use of their arms.

Dorset HealthCare has joined forces with University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) in a pioneering trial by which local stroke patients will receive transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation as part of their rehabilitation therapy, which

involves sending mild electrical pulses to the brain.

Known as the TRICEPS trial, it will run for two years.

Instead of an implant inserted under a general anaesthetic, brain stimulation will be triggered via a lightweight, wearable pacemaker-like device which connects to a wired earpiece.

The stimulation will be automatically activated as the arm is moved during therapy

Smoking in pregnancy

University Hospital Dorset has launched a support group for smokers who are either currently pregnant or have recently given birth and wish to quit.

Sessions take place every Friday at 10.30am at Canford Heath Outreach Centre, Culliford Crescent, Poole, BH17 9DW.

and the connected earpiece gently tickles the ear, meaning people can access the treatment at home and without the need for invasive surgery.

To find out more about the trial, please contact 0300 019 4504 or neuro.physio@uhd. nhs.uk (people living in the BCP area or East Dorset), or –for residents elsewhere in the county – 01935 601454 or dhc. dorsetstrokeandneuroservice@ nhs.net

The development of mosaics from ancient times

By Julian Hewitt, Fordingbridge

Museum Mosaics are pictures or patterns produced by using small pieces of stone, ceramic or glass. The earliest ones date back to the third millennium BC in Mesopotamia or modern-day Iraq. These are floors made of pebbles, shells, stones and ivory. In the fourth century BC the Greeks developed this art form with mosaics depicting people, animals, and patterns.

It was the Romans who perfected and made widespread use of the art of mosaics as a decorative medium. They used ceramics, natural stone and glass to make geometric displays and mythological and religious pictures. The fact that so many of them have survived

is testimony to their strength and durability. They provide a valuable record of the lives of people when they were made showing the clothes, tools, weapons, food and flora of the time.

The tesserae or little tiles that they used were about four millimetres thick and would often be produced in workshops in large quantities to be used by the mosaicists. These would produce fine detail but at more rural sites larger tiles that were locally produced would be used.

The mosaics that we see today in Roman villas look dull but when they were made, and in everyday use, they would be polished so that they shone with vibrant colours.

Rockbourne Roman Villa in Hampshire has a well-preserved mosaic in what was thought to be the dining room with an intricate swastika design that originally signified wellbeing.

One of the best local Roman mosaics came from a Roman villa at Downton. This was excavated in the 1950s and dates to 300-400 AD. It is the best example from Roman times in the area. Again, it was from what was thought to be the dining room and shows a drinking cup with handles in the shape of dolphins. This was a symbol of bounty and conversation and would have shown off the wealth of the family at a time when most floors were made of compressed soil. It is now on show in Salisbury Museum.

great pavement in the sanctuary of Westminster Abbey. This was made in 1268 for Henry III by craftsmen in the Cosmati family from Italy. Its elaborate design represents the universe and is made of glass and marble tiles augmented by gold leaf. It is on this floor that the kings of England were crowned. Until recently, it was covered by a thick carpet to protect it, but it is now restored and was kept uncovered for the coronation of King Charles III. The Cosmati family lived in Rome in the 12th and 13th centuries and their work is rare outside Italy.

Interestingly, a fragment of Cosmatesque mosaic was found in Wimborne Minster. It dated from the 1270s and is thought to be part of the shrine of St Cuthburga, the founder of the abbey. It is now in the Dorset Museum in Dorchester.

In more modern times one of the best-known mosaicists in Britain was Boris Anrep. He made the mosaics in the entrance hall of the National Gallery as well as mosaics for Westminster Cathedral and the Bank of England. He was a friend and lover of Maud Russell who owned Mottisfont Abbey. There you can see his mosaic, made in 1946, of an angel in yellow robes standing next to a tree. The angel has Maud’s face.

One of the most spectacular and rare mosaics is the

Today you can see numerous examples of modern mosaics in public and private buildings and used to decorate mirrors, flowerpots, kitchens, and bathrooms. Perhaps after you have read this article you will notice these and remember the development of the art from ancient times.

Column by Fordingbridge Museum is sponsored by Adrian Dowding

The mosaic from Downton Roman Villa courtesy of Salisbury Museum.

Pamphill First School raises £2,000 for students in Uganda

Children at a small Dorset school have smashed their fundraising target of £250 for students in Uganda.

Pamphill CofE First School has raised over £2,000 for the Emily Collins School on the outskirts of Kisoro in the south-west of the African country.

The British children wanted to help enable the students to enjoy the same things they had – including school trips and playground equipment.

They began fundraising during the autumn, which included sponsored runs, sponsored climbs, sponsored swims and cake sales.

Their initial target of £250 was quickly exceeded and by the end of the term a total of £2,100.35 had been raised.

“This was very much a pupil-led effort and it’s incredible how much they raised considering we are a school of just 74 pupils,” said headteacher Mike Wheeler.

For the full story visit www.dorsetview.co.uk

Extreme reading challenge embraced with gusto!

Hanford girls have embraced an ‘Extreme Reading Challenge’ with gusto.

Pupils took photos of themselves reading in wild, wacky or unusual places during half term. This challenge was part of Hanford’s lead up to World Book Day on 7 March.

From reading in trees, on ponies, up a climbing wall, on rockets, in aquariums, hanging upside down,

in the dentist’s chair and practising yoga, head of Hanford School in Child Okeford, Hilary Phillips said: “We have loved every single entry so far.”

All the photos are on the ‘Gallery’ page of Hanford’s website, so why not take a look and get some inspiration for some Extreme Reading of your own?

Helping toads cross roads

– safely

By Louis Pulford

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

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

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

a great way to contribute to the local wildlife in the New Forest.

There are three shifts a night, seven days a week during the migration period.

On my second shift, it was a bountiful evening with many highs.

21 toads were crossed to safety and two casualties were found.

Many of the saved toads were pairs, heading to Blashford Lakes to spawn the next generation. Lots of these toads crossed at a slow pace or just sat in the road staring me down, so I do take my hat off to their brazen attitude, but it isn’t doing them any favours being bolshy.

The team of volunteers are a caring group who share

similar feelings towards wildlife and biodiversity, each giving their time to patrol and offer safe passage to our fellow travellers. Nicola Yorke is the current orchestrator and can be found supporting teams and making regular trips to the migration area. She said, “We’re really grateful to the many drivers who slow down and stay patient

as volunteers pick up the toads and carry them across the road.

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

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

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

Toads found on patrol © louispcreative

Strawberry rice using European rice

Chef Homam Ayaso (aka @ Homamino) is on a journey to create six bespoke recipes using premium European Rice in his new series ‘Everything Rice’, and here is one to tickle the taste buds.

Strawberry Pilaf or Strawberry Rice is a little bit different and very easy to make – perfect for a special occasion.

European Rice is high quality rice grown in Greece since the 1950s and other European countries. There are two varieties: Indica Rice (long grain) and Japonica Rice (medium grain). https://www.europeanrice.eu/

Prep Time: 15 Min

Cook Time: 20 Min

Servings: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 shallot onions

• 3 cloves of garlic

• 1 litre of vegetable broth

• 100ml (1/2 cup) of white wine

• 350g (1 3/4 cup) of premium quality

European Rice

• 350g (1 1/2 cup) of strawberries

• 40g of unsalted butter

• 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmigiano cheese

• 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Nutmeg

• Roasted hazelnut to garnish

Method:

Prepare a vegetable stock, if you don’t already have it. Carrot, celery and a small onion in 1.5 litres of lightly salted water. Boil for at least 40 minutes. The broth will be used to cook the risotto. Meanwhile, wash the strawberries and dry them well. Remove the green tuft and cut them into small pieces. Keep a few whole strawberries for the final decoration.

Chop onion and garlic, sauté over a medium heat in a pan with 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the grains are slightly glassy.

Add white wine, stir and let it evaporate, over a high heat. Add hot vegetable stock with a ladle. At first, there will be a sizzle as part of the stock, in contact with the hot pan, evaporates. Immediately add another ladle of stock. During cooking, the rice must always be covered with stock; in this way it releases the starches and the grain does not break.

Halfway through cooking, (about 8 minutes), add half of the chopped strawberries, stirring constantly. The strawberries will become creamy and give the rice its characteristic colour.

When the rice is cooked, (another 8-10 minutes), turn off the heat. Add grated Parmigiano cheese and butter. Stir to combine and finish by decorating with the remaining strawberries and roasted hazelnut.

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

16 March 1.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Show at Verwood Memorial Hall.

16 March 2.30pm and 7.30pm

Phoenix Musical Theatre presents A-Z of musicals and comedy sketches at The Barrington Centre, Ferndown. Tickets from www. ticketsource.co.uk/phoenix

16 March 9.45am

West Moors Town Council litter pick. Meet at town council office. All equipment provided.

16 March 10am-4pm

Wimborne Railway Society

‘Railex’ Open Day. Allendale Centre, BH21 1AG.

16 March 11am-2pm

MS Care Dorset Spring Fayre, Church Lane, West Parley, BH22 8TS. Further details 01202 570300.

17 March 3pm

The Wessex Ensemble in Kimmeridge House, Bournemouth University, BH12 5BB. www. bournemouthchambermusic.co.uk

18 March 10.30am-11.30am

Reading Friends group meets at Ferndown Library. Contact the library.

19 March 8pm

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

19 and 26 March 1pm

Free concert in St Aldhelm’s Church, Branksome. Tel 01202 764420

21 March 10am-1pm

RSPB New Forest local group field trip to Kings Copse (SU 436 016). Tel 01425 652864 https:// group.rspb.org.uk/newforest/

22 March 10.30am

Wimborne u3a talk on Education Philosophy at Wimborne Methodist Church.

23 March 10am-3pm

Artisan Makers Market at Wimborne Community Centre.

23 March 7.30pm

Aled Jones Full Circle tour at The Barn, Ringwood. www.thebarnringwood. co.uk/events/81330

24 March 11am-4pm

Easter Egg Hunt at the Village Hall, Braeside Road, St Leonards. Details mariestlshall@ yahoo.com 01425 475733.

25 March 7.30pm

Fordingbridge Garden Club, Avonway Community Centre, SP6 1JF. Visitors welcome £3.

26 March doors open 1pm

Rising Voices Wessex community choirs for people affected by cancer concert at St Aldhelm’s Church, Branksome. Free entry with retiring collection.

26 March 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening Club meets at the MS Centre, West Parley. Further details Rod Darch 01202 896711. Email rod@rdconsulting.co

26 March 2pm-4pm

Preloved Charity Fashion Show at Upton Manor Care home. Contact 01202 620020 or email Donna.Milne-Barron@ hamberleycarehomes.co.uk

27 March 7.30pm

Ringwood Antiques Club at Greyfriars Community Centre.

27 March 6pm-8pm

Diverse Abilities spring flowers workshop at the Beehive. For tickets diverseabilities.org.uk/ events2024/springflowers

30 March 1.30pm

West Moors Horticultural Show at the Memorial Hall, West Moors.

30 March 10am

Verwood litter pick at Bugdens Copse. Email cllr.gibson@ hotmail.co.uk for info.

1 April 7.30pm-10pm

Bournemouth Folk Dance Club, the Annunciation Church Hall, 218 Charminster Road, BH8 9RW. www.bfdc.club

3 April 11am

Neil Vacher from AFC Bournemouth presentation at Bournemouth Library. To book call 01202 126750 or email: heritage library@bcpcouncil.gov.uk

3 April 7pm

The Fireside Theatre’s reading of Separate Tables hosted by Daphne and John Fairburn in Verwood. Contact 01202 820689.

3 April 2pm

Lytchett & Upton Floral Club at CJs, Lytchett Minster Church car park.

4 April 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall . Details on www. verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk

7 April 2pm-4pm

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

8 April 7.30pm

Wimborne Gardening Club at the Allendale Centre.

8 April 2.30pm

West Moors Horticultural Society at the Memorial Hall, West Moors.

8 April 7.30pm

Ferndown French Circle will meet at the Centre, Barnes Road, Ferndown for AGM (in English) followed by a film. Enquiries 07552 074135.

8 April 10.30am-4.30pm

Fordingbridge Rotary model railway exhibition, Avonway Community Centre, 36, Shaftesbury Street.

8 April 7pm-9pm

Bournemouth Ukulele Social Group free session at The Commodore BH6 3TD Free. All abilities welcome. Just drop in.

10 April 6.30pm-9pm

Bournemouth Big Band, Swing and Jazz Club, downstairs in Kinson Community Centre.

10 April 7.45pm

East Dorset Antiquarian Society at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Wimborne.

10 April 7.30pm-9.30pm

RSPB New Forest local group, Lyndhurst Community Centre SO43 7NY. Tel 01425 652864 https:// group.rspb.org.uk/newforest/

Some Mothers Do ‘Ave Em

Wimborne Drama Productions | Tivoli Theatrre Review by Marilyn

Barber

It takes more than a little confidence and courage for a company either professional or amateur to stage a play based on a hit TV series as comparisons with the original stars are inevitable. However, Wimborne Drama are never afraid to push boundaries and set out with their own interpretation of Frank and Betty Spencer. The play was written for the stage and not lifted from the TV series.

Frank’s efforts to hone a magical act at his home, whilst covering up his disastrous DIY and trying to cook a meal for guests, led to many moments of hilarity as he went from one disaster to another with parts of the set crashing down and lights and music coming on at inappropriate moments.

Timing is all in just such a play and massive plaudits have to go to Chris Durham, who not only played Father O’Hara, he also designed and built the stage set and organised the pyrotechnics.

Judy Garrett is a seasoned actor and never better when she plays quirky, slightly off the wall characters as she did as Barbara, Betty’s mother.

It was good to see Richard Neal on stage again, as he always gets under the skin of his characters – and in this case two characters, David and Terry. Likewise, Andy Gill as the theatrical Leslie and the dour Constable.

This was amateur theatre at its very best and Rob CordingCook should take a bow for directing this intricate production with such skill. The creative team also deserve accolades. Full review is at www.dorsetview.co.uk

Losing Louis

Broadstone Players Theatre Company

Broadstone War Memorial Hall

Review by Marilyn Barber

This black comedy by Simon Mendes Da Costa moves backwards and forwards between 1960 and 2019.

In 1960 Louis Ellis (Scott Bedwell) is in bed with his lover Bella (Katie Walker) when something happens which is a subtle clue to the intrigue which will ensue 59 years later.

His wife Bobbie (Chloe Partridge) appears unaware of what is going on under her roof – but is she?

The three young actors put in convincing performances as their trauma unravels.

Fast forward to 2019 where we meet Tony, Louis’ son who is preparing for the funeral of his father. And this is where the humour came in with Michael Mackay interacting so well with his wife Sheila, played by the inimitable Jenny Hughes. Jenny’s performances always light up the stage and this part of the daughter-in-law with no filter and little tact was perfect for her.

In the role of Louis’ other son Reggie was Peter Watson, who always puts in an accomplished performance. Cheryl Connor had the chance to display a gamut of emotions as his wife Elizabeth who was struggling to deal with Reggie’s philandering.

As secrets were unravelled, emotions ran high in this well rehearsed play which required – and received - excellent timing. For full review visit www.dorsetview.co.uk

Spring into Easter!

By Marilyn Barber and Janine Pulford

With Easter on the horizon, let’s say goodbye to being stuck at home with rain splattering on the windows. It’s time to get out and about now the spring season is upon us.

The Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne is embracing the season with Little Explorers Spring Has Sprung on 2 April from 10am-1pm. Children can make 3D bunnies, decorate flower crowns and plant sunflowers. Also included are stories and a garden trail.

Wimborne Model Town and Gardens, which has been closed for the winter, opens on 29 March and did you know your entrance ticket will be valid for the season? You can use it again and again. As part of the attraction’s Easter activities, the Model Town will hold an Easter Quiz from 29 March to 14 April.

Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile Centre in Ringwood offers a day to remember. From the magnificent Alaskan Bald Eagle to often

misunderstood reptiles, you will have an unforgettable experience, especially as there are enthralling flying demonstrations.

Monkey World is another must-see attraction. This 65-acre centre is home to over 250 rescued and endangered primates including chimpanzees, orang-utans, gibbons, ring-tailed lemurs and woolly monkeys. Daily keeper talks add further interest.

If you’re looking for a trip or holiday, how about booking a break in a holiday park where you can enjoy time as a family in a static caravan or lodge? Or maybe consider a cruise or mini cruise? Coach travel is popular, and it’s easy to see why with someone else doing the driving. You can choose from a day trip to a longer break.

Regular readers will be familiar with the event listings – see page 28. Upcoming events range from shows, talks, walks and more.

Would you like to find hot cross buns growing on trees? Meet at the Minster church in Wimborne at 3pm on Good Friday to find out more.

Looking ahead, you could go to a food festival where you can sample goodies. The Cheese and Chilli Festival is on 18 and 19 May and the Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival is on 8 and 9 June. Or for a family day out head to the Fete on the Field in Ferndown on 15 June and Westival in West Moors on 13 July.

Thinking farther ahead, the Dorset Opera Festival will celebrate its 50th

anniversary with a gala anniversary concert and much more beside at the Coade Theatre, Bryanston in July.

Local theatres never fail to disappoint, and the Tivoli has many upcoming shows including ‘P ssed Up Panto – Jack & The Beanstalk’ (over 16s only) and ‘The Floyd Effect 2023/24 Anniversary Tour,’ whilst at Verwood Hub you can see ‘Not the Rolling Stones’, ‘Giants of Rock’ and much more.

Check out the advertisers in this section (P28-32) and spring into Easter.

Immerse yourself in the Museum of East Dorset

This Easter, step into history at the Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne. Explore the fascinating stories of the people who lived and worked in the region for centuries, all within 11 engaging galleries housed in a beautiful Grade II* listed building.

Celebrate spring with our popular Little Explorer’s children’s craft event on Tuesday 2 April and catch the final days of the ‘May the Toys Be With You’ exhibition. This

captivating collection of vintage Star Wars toys and original memorabilia concludes its run on Saturday, 20 April. Unleash your creativity with a variety of bookable workshops and enjoy a unique evening of folk music and spoken word by renowned artists Tim Laycock and Alastair Braidwood on 27 April.

The Museum, Tea Room and garden are open Monday to Saturday 10am–4pm. For more details visit www. museumofeastdorset.co.uk

Unique collection of fashion and textiles

With 13 displays, the Blandford Fashion Museum is home to a vast collection of clothing, accessories and textiles. The museum presents a unique portrait of fashion and textiles from the 1700s to the 1980s.

For 2024 there are two new exhibitions, Our Sporting Heritage, which looks at the history of sportswear, and The

Textile Collection of Elisabeth Frink, which celebrates the textiles the sculptor both designed and collected.

Blandford Fashion Museum is open Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays (excluding Bank Holidays) from February to November. It has a tearoom and gift shop. www. blandfordfashionmuseum.co.uk

New network group

Report and photo by Marilyn Barber newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Businesswomen in Wimborne and the surrounding areas now have the chance to meet up with others at a newly launched networking group.

Wimborne Ladies Who Latte held its first meeting on 27 February at Hyacinth House, 179 Wimborne Road East. Future meetings will be held from 9.45am (10am start) until 11.30am/ 12 noon on the fourth Tuesday of every month.

It is run by Shelley Barker who spent 25 years in banking. She said: “I enjoy networking and feel that women in business face different challenges to men. They can struggle in the corporate world.”

This not for profit organisation is free to attend and enables women to chat over coffee.

“The only cost to members is time. Meetings are very relaxed,” said Shelley.

The lively launch showcased a wide variety of businesses including community fundraising for Parkinsons UK, a mortgage broker, graphic designer, photographer and mobile bar owner.

Ladies Who Latte was founded in 2007 and there are now 130 groups nationally and overseas. Shelley can be contacted at shelleybarkeruw@gmail.com

Exciting business collaboration between The Furlong and The Barn

The Furlong Shopping Centre and The Barn have announced a strategic collaboration, bringing together two of Ringwood’s premier leisure destinations.

The partnership between The Furlong Shopping Centre and The Barn promises a wealth of benefits for the local community. By joining forces, they aim to create a synergy that will elevate Ringwood’s profile and provide an even wider array of choices for people seeking leisure and entertainment options.

Nestled within the impressive grounds of Ringwood School, The Barn is a modern and versatile venue that has quickly established itself as a hub for diverse entertainment. With an array of exciting offerings, including comedy, theatre, live music and intriguing special interest events, The Barn promises an impressive calendar of activities for all the family.

The Furlong, with its wide range of shops and premium brands, restaurants, and services, offers an attractive shopping and dining experience for visitors of all ages.

The award-winning The Furlong Shopping Centre shares with The Barn a varied range of patrons who appreciate quality experiences. By working together, they can provide visitors with a seamless transition from shopping and dining to entertainment and events.

Charlotte Reed, marketing director for The Furlong Shopping Centre said, “We are excited to collaborate with The Barn to offer our customers even more choices and experiences, making Ringwood an even more must-visit destination.”

This partnership will enable visitors to enjoy a day of shopping at The Furlong Shopping Centre, followed by an evening of live entertainment at The Barn. With this collaboration, both venues aim to boost the local economy, increase footfall, and enhance the overall experience for residents and tourists alike.

Representing The Barn, Sam Coombes said: “Together, we will provide Ringwood with a one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, ensuring that visitors have plenty of reasons to explore our lovely market town and the picturesque New Forest.”

Charlotte Reed and Sam Coombes

20mph speed limit for Wimborne

A 20mph speed limit is to be imposed in Wimborne, which is amongst five towns and villages to have successfully applied to Dorset Council for new limits and zones. Installation of the new signs will begin in April.

Further applications for Allenview Road/Burts Hill in Wimborne Okeford Fitzpaine, Child Okeford, Milborne St Andrew, Winterborne Kingston and Cheselbourne are now being assessed by Dorset Council.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said: “This initiative is in response to community concerns about road safety and healthy areas in towns and villages.” He added, the 20mph schemes give the maximum benefit for the affected communities and ensure greater safety for pedestrians and cyclists and those using a mobility scooter, wheelchair, or similar mobility aid.

Residents interested in the introduction of new 20mph speed limits in their local area should contact their town or parish council or local Dorset councillor.

What to do if your vehicle catches on fire

By Dominic Watt | www.firstvehicleleasing.co.uk

Experiencing a vehicle fire is a frightening ordeal, often striking unexpectedly and escalating rapidly. Understanding how to react to such emergencies can make a significant difference, potentially saving lives and minimising property damage.

Immediate Actions

Stay calm; signal your intentions: if you suspect your vehicle is on fire (signs include smoke, unusual odours, or warning lights), remain calm. Signal and move to the nearest safe location to stop, ideally away from traffic and on level ground.

Turn off engine: once stopped, turn off the engine immediately. This action helps to cut the fuel supply, potentially preventing the fire from spreading.

Evacuate the vehicle: ensure you and all passengers exit the vehicle as swiftly and safely as possible. Avoid opening the bonnet, as oxygen can fuel the flames. Move everyone to a safe distance, ideally at least 100 metres away, and keep clear of traffic.

Call emergency services: dial 999 to report the fire. Provide precise details of your location and the situation. The UK emergency services will dispatch the necessary assistance promptly.

Do not attempt to extinguish the fire yourself

While it might be tempting to try and put out the fire, it’s crucial to prioritise safety over property.

Vehicle fires can escalate quickly, presenting significant risks from explosions, toxic fumes, and intense heat.

Legal and financial implications

In the UK, vehicle owners are required to maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition. Failure to adhere to maintenance standards can lead to legal repercussions, including fines of up to £5,000, if neglect is proven to contribute to a fire. Regular vehicle checks and servicing can help prevent such incidents.

Insurance considerations

Should your vehicle catch fire, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the incident. Comprehensive insurance policies typically cover fire damage, but it’s

crucial to review your policy details. Documenting the incident thoroughly, including photographs and a clear account of events, will support your insurance claim process.

A Taste of Italy

Discover the rugged charm of Tuscany Flower Décor

Looking for a tile that has all the charm of a rustic, handcrafted artisan piece, but for the fraction of the cost?

The Baked Tile Company has Tuscany Flower Décor tiles that look as though they have been around for centuries.

The super shiny, undulating tile is made from durable ceramic, meaning not only will it withstand almost everything thrown at it, but will also cost a fraction of its artisanal counterparts.

Lesley Taylor, interior designer and founder of The Baked Tile Company, said: “Tuscany Flower Decor is a dream of a tile. It looks like it has been handcrafted by artisans and exudes timeless charm.

“It looks stunning in traditional settings and will add a classic touch in contemporary rooms.

“The brooding blues complement a wealth of colours and will grab attention, meaning you can utilise this tile as a feature wall or a splashback and it will still pack a punch.”

To look at more of The Baked Tile Company’s Tuscany Flower Décor, visit: https://www. bakedtiles.co.uk

BCP Council says Poole Quay events not cancelled

Contrary to rumours sweeping social media BCP Council says it has not cancelled events planned for Poole Quay this year and into the New Year 2025. However, the support of businesses is needed to enable some hugely popular events to take place.

The following will continue to be funded by the council and will run this year: Poole Quay Fireworks, 5 November Fireworks, Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail; New Years Bath Race and Classic Cars

Poole Quay Fireworks will take place once a week, across the four weeks of August.

In line with last year’s arrangements; the council is working with local businesses to secure funding for an extra two firework events either side of August.

Harry Paye Day is organised by the Pirates of Poole, and as in previous years the council will continue to fund the necessary road closure including providing staff on the ground which enables the event to take place.

The Council is working with businesses and external event organisers to enable the following events to go ahead, all of which took place in 2022 and 2023. They are Dream Machines (Bike Night), Quay for my Car and the Mini Steam on the Quay.

Blandford buildings to be restored after 30-year wait By Nicci Brown

There were cheers of approval from members of the public and council staff when town councillors in Blandford voted unanimously to progress the latest proposal for restoration of the town’s Grade I listed Corn Exchange, Town Hall and Council Chamber which has been under consideration for over 30 years.

Extensive works to the complex were given planning

and listed building consent by Dorset Council in January.

Alterations to the Grade 1 listed building, parts of which date back to the early 1730s, will improve public access.

The council now needs approval for a loan of around £1.3 million from the Public Works Loan Board, which will be paid back over the next 50 years at a cost of £100,000 a year - a sum

already included towards the project in the council’s precept for council tax in the current year. There will be no increase in the council tax/precept for the purpose of the loan repayments.

It is hoped the start date will be at the end of March or beginning of April, and the works will take 68 weeks to complete, during which time the complex will be closed to the public.

Empty properties and second homes face higher charges

People owning second homes and properties that are left empty in Dorset are going to face higher charges. For those properties classified as Long-Term Empty and Unoccupied a 100 per cent council tax premium will, from 1 April, be applied after one year rather than the existing two years.

Compulsory purchase for Blandford property

Dorset Council is seeking a compulsory purchase order for a grade II listed property in Blandford which has been falling into disrepair for at least 30 years. The application has been advertised locally and notices placed on the building at 26 East Street and the council’s website. The consultation period ends on 1 April. It has taken three years of hard work by Dorset Council’s Housing Standards Team to get to this stage. Team leader Steven March said: “This action demonstrates Dorset Council’s commitment to ensure we meet our corporate aim to bring more long-term empty homes back into use, to meet the high need for sustainable housing in Dorset.”

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Helping residents who fear losing their home

Dorset CounciL, Shelter and Citizens Advice have joined forces to prevent homelessness in the county.

The new partnership is supporting Dorset residents who are experiencing a range of housing issues by providing a free, confidential and nonjudgemental one-stop-shop for anyone with housing cost concerns.

Experts can assist with many areas of housing, such as giving legal and debt advice, help finding a new home due to eviction and in some circumstances facilitate financial assistance to enable residents to remain in their accommodation.

The service is also open to lettings agents so they can share information with landlords and their clients.

Cllr Jane Somper said preventing homelessness is a key priority for Dorset Council adding: “People often contact the authorities for help when they reach a crisis point, which is extremely stressful for them. Don’t leave it too late to speak to us. Contact us today.”

Helen Goldsack from Citizens Advice in East Dorset and Purbeck said: “We welcome this partnership between the charity sector and Dorset Council, which will allow us collectively to reach out to those people who need help.”

Hub manager for Shelter, Dorset, Kate Parker added: “Working with the council and Citizens Advice gives us the opportunity to get a wider understanding of someone’s circumstances, which enables us to give them tailored advice about their situation and prevent homelessness where possible.”

Residents can access the Housing Advice service by calling 01305 221000 or emailing housinghelp@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or visiting the Dorset Council website.

Avon Heath Country Park to remain development free

Homes will not be built on part of Avon Heath Country Park.

In 2021, Dorset Council agreed not to oppose any investigations by W H White Ltd into the proposed Brocks Pine development on land that included part of Avon Heath Country Park. This allowed the proposals to be developed by W H White Ltd and presented to the public, while not formally committing the Council to any long-term plans.

In late 2021 W H White Ltd applied for planning permission on this land, eventually taking their application to the Planning Inspectorate last year on the grounds of non-determination. On Monday 19 February 2024, the Planning Inspectorate ruled that planning permission should be granted for the development.

However, as the landowner, Dorset Council now says that it will not be offering land at Avon Heath Country Park for inclusion within the proposed scheme.

A council spokesman said: “Circumstances over the past few years have changed significantly for both the Council and the park itself, which continues to perform well. At this moment in time, it is our view that Avon Heath Country Park does not need this development, and therefore we are no longer able to engage in further discussions with W H White Ltd regarding the land we own there.

“We wish W H White Ltd all the best in their future endeavours.”