Viewpoint April 2023

Poole Harbour polluted by leakage

A clean-up operation is being carried out in Pool Harbour following the leakage from a pipeline of reservoir fluid, including oil. The leak was reported to have come from Wytch Farm, and was discovered on 26 March.

A major incident was declared and members of the public have been urged not to swim in the harbour or nearby until further notice.

Continued on page 5…

VIEWPOINT

Dear readers

Having never lived more than 10 miles from Wimborne you would think that over the years I would have visited every possible tourist attraction within a 20-mile radius.

Not so, as for the first time recently I visited the Blandford Fashion Museum, which boasts garments from the 1800s to the 1960s. And I thought I was a fashionista too! See story and pictures on page 23.

Maybe some readers haven’t been to this museum in The Plocks at Blandford Forum either.

We think nothing of jumping into our cars to travel to tourist attractions miles away, but often forget those on our doorstep.

Hands up those who have never visited the Wimborne Model Town. Thought so. Very remiss.

And even more shocking - someone who has lived in Wimborne since 2015 said she was about to visit the Tivoli theatre for the first time. She will regret those wasted years.

I have friends who have lived in the area for decades who have never ventured into Wimborne’s Museum of East Dorset saying that they had always meant to, but hadn’t got round to it. I’m not going to do any naming and shaming – this time.

In choosing to visit local attractions, we are supporting local businesses, and what better time is there to do this than over Easter and during the Coronation bank holiday.

On page 32 we have details of Coronation events planned for the local area. Do send in any more to: newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

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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Copy date 25 APRIL 2023

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SPRING

HERE! Long tailed tit nest building © Tracy Whincup

Additional New Forest funding welcomed

The Secretary of State for the Environment has announced the New Forest National Park will receive an additional one-off payment this financial year to support increasing costs.

The extra £440,000 will help deliver the ambitious Re:New Forest Partnership Plan for the National Park, focusing on climate, nature, people, place and partnership.

The award is part of an additional £4.4 million being provided to the country’s 10 National Park Authorities to support vital services.

The Government also announced that the Farming in Protected Landscapes scheme currently delivered across 10 National Parks and 34 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) since 2021, will also be extended until March 2025. The New Forest National Park Authority has already been given £456,000 to issue in grants between July 2021 to March 2024 which has seen miles of hedgerow planted, ponds created, orchards planted and measures to reduce flooding.

Prof Gavin Parker, New Forest National Park Authority chair, said: “The New Forest National Park is a haven for wildlife in the busy south with many rare habitats and species. It also has 34,500 residents and welcomes millions of visitors each year.

“Our core funding has halved in real terms since 2010 with much of our £3.3m Defra grant being used to provide protection of the New Forest and support of our communities and businesses, including through our planning function. So this one-off grant is vital to ensure we can continue to resource our rangers and continue projects with Forest partners to ensure people respect and care for the New Forest; help more children and young people learn about the natural world and gain green skills and jobs; and carry out vital

conservation work to maintain and help recover nature.”

Andrew McCloy, chair of National Parks England, welcomed the announcement and said: “At a time when our National Parks are facing a real term reduction in Government grant, this additional funding is desperately needed.

“National Parks account for almost 10% of England’s

land area and have ambitious plans to deliver on Government targets for nature, climate and public access.

“We have been calling for the powers and resources needed to achieve this ambition. It’s vital that the announcement for this oneoff funding is backed up by a commitment to support our National Parks in the long term.”

…Continued from front page

Poole Harbour polluted by leakage

The pipeline is operated by gas company Perenco who stressed the situation was “under control” with the discharge of fluids stopped and “the spill being contained.” The pipeline had been shut down, and booms placed either side of the leak.

Poole Harbour Commissioners reported that an estimated 200 barrels of reservoir fluid “has been released into the water column in Poole Harbour.”

Poole is the largest natural harbour in Europe. Paul Morton from the charity Birds of Poole Harbour, said: “Poole Harbour is an incredibly important area environmentally. It has multiple protective designations in place including the Poole Harbour SPA (Special Protection Area), the Poole Harbour SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) as well as being a designated RAMSAR site in which it is recognised as an internationally important wetland.

“When it comes to an issue like this there are several areas of concern. One is that any birds that come into physical contact with this substance can see their feathers damaged and become less water resistant. The substance will also encourage any affected birds to preen constantly, meaning they could ingest the hazardous liquid. The other unknown is how much of the oil will settle on the mud and harbour shorelines and what impact that will have on marine invertebrates.

“We will be in constant communication with local partners and the community over the coming days to ensure we’re able to support where we can and ask that the public remain vigilant and report any birds that look in distress to ourselves so we can report it to the relevant organisations.”

Latest employee is life-changer

A profoundly deaf business founder and company director in Ferndown has waited patiently for over four years for his latest employee, Ron.

Ron finally arrived in March to join the Train AV team based at Arena Business Centre in Ferndown. And he’s no ordinary recruit.

Ron is a hearing assistance dog – a cocker spaniel cross – and he’ll be supporting Mike, whose business offers cross platform training and commissioning services in AV and Digital Signage across the country.

Mike explains: “It comes as a revelation to many people to discover that although I work in a world of sound, I am profoundly deaf, the by-product of a neurological condition I suffered when I was 27.

“I was determined not to let my disability put an end to using my skillset nor force me to give up my passion to run my own AV training business. I have become

an accomplished lip reader and take translators with me to foreign assignments.”

Sadly, in the past couple of years, Mike’s hearing has deteriorated even further, and he lives with high levels of pain.

Mike says: “After seeking advice from a pain consultant, I decided to do what was best for me and hope everyone in my industry would understand. I have been polling clients for the past two years to see if there would be any objections to me bringing a hearing assistance dog on site. My customers are so supportive, and Ron’s already got many invites to go to client workplaces.”

After a four-and-a-half year wait, Mike and Ron were matched and are finally together. A highly intelligent dog, Ron has been trained to be Mike’s ears and alert him to

dangers and specific sounds.

“As Ron is going to be travelling all over the country with me, it was important to have a dog that has a legal right of entry into premises such as workplaces and restaurants. Hearing Dogs for Deaf People are one of the few charities who provide dogs with access all-areas status.”

Employer and employee are already working well together. “As soon as his harness and jacket go on, Ron knows it’s time for work,” explains Mike. “His whole demeanour changes and he focuses fully on me.”

Mike added: “It can cost up to 40k to train an assistance dog throughout its lifetime and I cannot thank the Hearing Dogs for Deaf People enough for their support. Ron is making a huge difference not only to my working life but my homelife too.”

David Robson, a spokesman for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, said: “We are thrilled that Ron is already making such a difference to Mike’s life, both at work and at home. Our dogs are highly trained to alert deaf people to important and

life-saving sounds, such as smoke alarms, alarm clocks, and even Skype call alerts and text message sounds.

“Being alerted to these sounds by a loyal and loving dog can make deaf people feel much safer and can enable them to live the life they want to. Research has also found that hearing dogs can alleviate anxiety, make people feel less isolated and lonely, and help them to feel more connected socially and at work. They can truly transform the lives of deaf people.”

Mike added: “He’s so therapeutic to stroke and I am already noticing my pain levels have subsided exponentially. I feel more confident with Ron by my side when I am out in public. I’m proud to be championing disability in the workplace and hope my story will help other disabled entrepreneurs continue to realise their goals. This fourlegged friend and employee is a life-changer for me.”

You can follow Ron’s career via his own blog coming soon to Train AV’s website https:// trainav.co.uk/

https://www.hearingdogs. org.uk/

Ron hears for his owner

Bishop’s Pond work parties

The next work parties at Bishop’s Pond Conservation Site – all from 2pm to 4pm unless otherwise stated, and weather permitting – are:

Saturday 15 April, Sunday 23 April, Monday 1 May (7pm9pm), Saturday 13 May and Sunday 21 May. Visitors are welcome to explore the conservation site on those dates and find out more about its flora and fauna, its history and Fordingbridge Conservation

Group’s plans for its future management. Volunteer help is always welcome, just come along and bring gardening gloves and secateurs if you have them. Children are welcome to help if accompanied by an adult. The site is located at the corner of Normandy Way and Cottage Mews, Fordingbridge SP8 1RJ. www. fordingbridgeconservation.uk

Allegation of illegal fox hunting

Three men are to appear in court in connection with an allegation of illegal fox hunting in North Dorset involving the Portman Hunt on 15 September 2022.

The men aged 21, 33 and 63, all from the Blandford area, have been issued with postal requisitions to appear

at Weymouth Magistrates’ Court on 7 June 2023 for an offence of hunting a wild mammal with dogs.

PC Sebastian Haggett has appealed to the public not to publish anything online or on social media that could risk prejudicing the proceedings.

Frog at Bishop’s Pond

Royal opening of climate centre at Beaulieu

A climate centre at Beaulieu in the New Forest National Park has been officially opened by HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh (who was, at the time of the event, the Countess of Wessex).

She met some of the Countryside Education Trust’s (CET) volunteers who were planting climate-resilient crops and was introduced to the CET’s oldest and youngest volunteers – 90-year-old Marg Verdon and nine-yearold Noah Barnard. She also met children from Beaulieu School who demonstrated various climate games, including a food miles race.

The new climate centre was donated to the CET by the Fort Foundation, inspired by Mr ES Fort OBE and reflects his long-held desire to bring education about climate change to the general public to encourage action on the climate emergency.

It will provide schools’ education, be a focus for

courses and events about climate change and the environment for the general public, and act as a hub for local green groups.

The Countryside Education Trust, based in Beaulieu, has been delivering environmental education programmes since 1975. Its chair, Lord Montagu of Beaulieu, said: “We are enormously grateful for this gift from the Fort Foundation and for Mr Fort’s trust in our organisation to deliver such an exciting project.”

Jane Cooper, chief executive of the Countryside Education Trust (CET) said: “We are looking forward to helping people of all ages to learn more about the challenges of climate change and empowering them to act. We believe that this

building will provide an inclusive base for climate education in the New Forest and beyond.”

The Fort Climate Centre has also benefited from a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund as part of the Green and Blue Horizons from City to Forest scheme, led by the New

Forest National Park Authority. For the CET, this has involved developing new climate-focused courses for young adults and professionals, enlarging its volunteering capacity and engaging seven interns in a variety of climate and environment projects.

Local Bobbies are making a comeback in Hampshire and Isle of Wight

Donna Jones, police and crime commissioner for Hampshire and Isle of Wight has announced communities, towns and villages across Hampshire and Isle of Wight will have named, dedicated police officers and PCSOs with the first of these in place by April 2024.

She said: “I have spent the last 18 months as your police

commissioner listening, learning and talking to thousands of people. I was convinced very quickly that bringing back local named police officers to serve you and your communities was the right thing to do.

“Since then, I’ve been working on finding the money to pay for more police officers and been successful in doing that.”

Mystery object

What on earth can this be?

Julian Hewitt from Fordingbridge Museum would love to hear from you should you recognise what it is.

Turn to page 12 for the museum’s telephone number, or pop into the museum itself and explain what you think this mystery object might be.

Shades of Different

Shades of Different is a registered charity (31 March 2022) based in East Dorset near the New Forest. It has been born out of an awareness raising campaign, which

Erika Petrie started a couple of years ago to give a voice to differently-abled children, like her youngest daughter Micaela, who has Down Syndrome and is non-verbal. It is about promoting inclusion in society, better role models and equal opportunities for these children in the future, as well as giving them the voice they deserve both figuratively and literally.

The charity also aims to raise valuable funds to supplement vital therapies in specialist settings such as: sensory integration, occupational therapy, speech therapy and music therapy. It has just been awarded two funding grants by local companies, enabling them to send vital sensory equipment into special schools and start to run music therapy sessions within the local community. shadesofdifferent.com

Charity number: 1198481

- advertisement feature -

Micaela

Managing stress

Tips from mental health charity Dorset Mind

Managing stress, especially during periods of change or uncertainty can have a negative impact on your mental health and wellbeing.

According to a Censuswide survey, asking 2,000 UK adults, 79% said they feel stressed at least one day a month (Ciphr, 2021).

In stressful environments it may feel difficult to stop and take a breather.

Dorset Mind delivers training to workplaces about managing stress. Here are a few of training manager, Marie-Clare’s top tips:

• Be honest with yourself and others about what you can achieve

• Prioritise tasks and really consider when each task needs to be completed

• Schedule breaks – add time out to your calendar

• Share problems – don’t bury your head

• Celebrate wins, however big

• Be part of a solution rather than always focusing on the problem

In addition, local non-profit organisations can help. Dorset Mind provides 1-2-1 and group mental health support for adults and young people. Services are available for online referral at dorsetmind.uk.

For support with money related issues, visit citizensadvice.org.uk. Or see what support services/schemes are available through your local council to assist with the cost of living.

Finally, remember to connect with others about how you’re feeling. A good support network can make all the difference in finding solutions to problems. If you need someone to talk to, you can contact Samaritans listening service on 116 123 (open 24/7).

Source: Workplace stress statistics: how stressed is the UK in 2021? - Ciphr

Join Dorset View for a fundraising night out

Pulford Publicity, the publishers of Dorset View and Viewpoint, are holding a charity fundraiser in aid of their Charity of the Year, Dorset Mind and would like to extend the invitation to everyone connected with any of their many publications.

Advertisers, readers, suppliers, friends and family as well as all the other businesses at Dana House are welcome to book their place now.

There will be a meal, raffle and auction with ‘auctioneer’ Tony Brown on Saturday 14 October in the Brabant Suite at Dudsbury Golf Club. Tickets to this event will soon be released and places are limited. If you would like to make a reservation call Ben or Louis on 01202 870270. Or email Janine@dorsetview. co.uk. Details of booking on line will shortly become available. “Come and relax with us for an enjoyable evening raising money for Dorset Mind,” said editor, Janine Pulford. “Black ties and posh frocks are not necessary, but if you want to dress up that’s fine by us.”

Fordingbridge Museum – its origins

By Julian Hewitt

John’s 12 year old daughter Mary had asked him what a gin trap was and, horrified by her lack of knowledge about such things, he started to collect items to teach her about her heritage. The collection soon outgrew his home and he had to house it in a special building in his builder’s yard off Church Street. In 2000 he and his brother Richard donated the collection to the town and so Fordingbridge Museum as we know it today was born. The museum usually attracts about 4,000 to 5,000 visitors a year, not only from the British Isles but from countries all around the world. This is of considerable financial benefit to the whole community. The museum’s popularity is reflected in our visitors book comments. Last year these included, “Fordingbridge should be very proud of this museum”, “A fascinating museum”, “Oh how I wish my town was so blessed.” There were frequent comments calling the museum “a little gem”.

Museums were originally places of contemplation or philosophical discussion. It was only in the 17th century that the term museum was used to describe a collection of curiosities that were owned by private individuals. One such person was Elias Ashmole who donated his collection to Oxford University. The Ashmolean Museum was opened to the public in 1683 and is generally acknowledged to be the first museum in the sense we know it today. It was intended, “not only for the inspection and entertainment of the learned and curious but for the general use of and benefit of the public”.

There was a rapid expansion in museums in the 19th century. This reflected the increase in civic pride and, later in the century, the promotion of free education. Public access was increased by the development of gas and electric lighting, which enabled the working classes to visit in the evenings. During the 20th century, museums were

increasingly seen as, not just centres of excellence but also as something that could make a positive contribution to the local economy, making a good return on any public money invested in them.

Housed in a picturesque old granary, Fordingbridge Museum is a major tourist attraction for the town and a valuable resource for local people. The artefacts are mainly Victorian and reflect the history of Fordingbridge and surrounding villages.

The museum has a large collection of photographs and documents that are available to the public or researchers. We can arrange historical tours of Fordingbridge, talks on various topics and visits by schools and other organisations. The museum is run entirely by volunteers and financed by visitor donations and fundraising. If you would like to join the Friends of the Museum or are willing to give some time as a volunteer please call 01425 657850.

Column by Fordingbridge Museum is sponsored by Adrian Dowding

Fordingbridge Museum has its origins in the private collection of local builder and undertaker John Shering.

Drone captures WBD

World Book Day certainly didn’t go unnoticed by children and staff at Hillside First School in Verwood.

As well as dressing up as their favourite storybook characters, swapping books, reciting poetry and enjoying a visit from a local author to celebrate World Book Day, the children at Hillside First School had another treat in store.

They congregated on the school field with the staff and formed the shape ‘WBD’ whilst a drone captured the event as a forever memory.

Dave Graves, headteacher said: “As a school we decided to create a week of memorable experiences for our children in order to continue to promote reading and its importance.

“The children and staff have had a great time and we wanted to try something a little different so created our World Books Day (WBD) image from above by using a drone. It has all been very exciting.”

A video was also produced by the school during the day with ‘shelfie’ photos of children in front of their book shelves, plus a whole school shelfie.

Verwood Rotary Club upcoming events

By Louisa Hiscock

Our members are looking forward to two club evenings this month with speakers joining us after dinner. Fordingbridge Rotary Club is also joining us for one of these and it is always great to all get together to share ideas.

As I write, final preparations are being made for our big Swing Band Evening in March. I look forward to sharing soon how this went and how much we were able to raise for the president’s chosen charity of MacMillan Caring Locally.

We are looking forward to being involved in the national Rotary Kidsout Day in June. This is a fun day out funded for children who are disadvantaged or with special educational or medical needs. This is usually to a nearby zoo, theme park or the seaside. Over 30,000 children participate across the country with 10,000 Rotarians supporting on the day.

The planning for our next fundraising event is now well underway. On Tuesday 11 April we are hosting with Verwood Flower Club a charity evening of ‘Floral Art’ in Verwood Memorial Hall. The evening will include demonstrations and a small ploughman’s platter. Tickets are £10 and all funds raised are again being donated to MacMillan Caring Locally. You just need to bring your own drinks and cutlery!

Looking forward, don’t forget to put a note in your diary to visit us at our beer tent at Verwood’s Picnic in The Park on Sunday 7 May for the King’s Coronation and of course our Rustic Fayre on August Bank Holiday Monday.

If you would like to find out more about any of the above or joining our club, contact us on enquiries@verwoodrotary.org.uk or check out our website or Facebook.

Carnival treats in store

As usual the fabulous Verwood Carnival and procession will take place on Bank Holiday Monday (29 May) at Potterne Park, Verwood. This year’s main attraction is Jamie Squibb and his team of riders. Liberty’s Owl, Raptor and Reptile centre will also give a display, Mr Merlin and Oakey Dokey the Dragon and the Magical Musical Bike will all make for a great family day out. Gates open at 11am. Entry is £5 per adult and £5 for parking. Accompanied under 18s enter free. Unaccompanied 13-17 pay £2 each. Early bird prices are available so check out the Verwood Carnival website for details.

TV presenters support NHS campaign

Tommy Walsh and Alan Titchmarsh have joined with the NHS to support a first-of-its-kind cancer awareness campaign.

In a new film discussing the importance of bowel cancer screening, the TV presenters urge those eligible to return their lifesaving bowel cancer screening home tests.

Recent data showed almost one third (30%) of people do not return the potentially lifesaving tests.

The film shows Tommy and Alan answering questionswritten on toilet roll - on how the NHS bowel cancer screening programme in England works.

Alan Titchmarsh said: “We know the earlier you detect cancer, the far greater your chances of survival. That’s why this campaign is so important – the NHS bowel cancer screening test can detect signs of cancer even before you notice anything wrong.

“It’s quick to complete and if you do it at soon as it arrives, you can send it off the same day, and job done! I really urge everyone to do it – you owe it to your family, and you owe it to yourself.”

The video is part of the NHS ‘Help Us Help You’ campaign. It follows a new survey that found nearly nine in 10 (89%) of eligible 56-74-year-olds would be likely to take a bowel cancer screening test if it could help find signs of cancer at an earlier

stage, but one in five say they wouldn’t complete one because they would be too embarrassed to look at their poo.

The NHS bowel cancer screening programme involves using a Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) kit, which detects small amounts of blood in poo – that would not be visible to people – before someone may notice anything is wrong.

A tiny sample of poo is collected using the plastic stick provided and is placed in a sample bottle before being sent back to the NHS, free of charge, for laboratory analysis.

More than half a million FIT kits are posted out each month to eligible people, who are automatically sent a kit every two years if they are registered with a GP practice and live in England. Bowel cancer is the

fourth most common cancer in the UK, and the second biggest cancer killer.

Data shows 43,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year and 16,500 people die from it annually –around 45 people per day.

TV personality, Tommy Walsh said: “As a cancer survivor myself, I know how important diagnosing cancer early is. But I didn’t know that detecting bowel cancer at the earliest stage makes you up to nine times more likely to be successfully treated.

“So remember, if you are sent an NHS bowel cancer screening test, do it as soon as it arrives in the post! Put it by the loo, and don’t put it off.”

Bowel cancer symptoms can include:

• a persistent change in bowel habit such as pooing more often, with looser, runnier poo

• blood in the poo

• abdominal pain, discomfort or bloating always brought on by eating  People concerned that they may have missed their invitation or have lost or thrown away their kit can call the free bowel cancer screening helpline for advice on 0800 707 60 60. Information on bowel cancer and the screening programme can be found at nhs.uk/bowel-screening

Some important facts about e-cigarettes

Vaping involves inhaling vapourised nicotine using a device known as an e-cigarette or vape. According to the NHS and Public Health England, vaping is a lot less harmful than smoking cigarettes. They’re great for people trying to stop smoking, but are not recommended for non-smokers.

Vaping has become popular opening up the market for illegal supplies. Illegal products can be unsafe and there may be no control over the age of people they are sold to.

Trading Standards view shops selling illegal vapes and vaping products to children as one of the top threats on the UK’s high streets. Hundreds of thousands of illegal vapes have already been seized. The concern is that cheap and brightly coloured vapes are ending up in the hands of children, who are then likely to become addicted to nicotine.

The Association of

Convenience Stores has updated its advice on selling vapes, helping retailers to tackle the huge rise in illegal products. Some of the key areas highlighted include:

• Disposable devices must have no more than 600 puffs.

• Warnings must cover 30% of the front and back of the pack.

• There is only one phrase that’s allowed on pack warnings in the UK, ‘This product contains nicotine which is a highly addictive substance’.

Any vape not following the points above is not allowed onto the UK market.

Retailers are also encouraged to challenge anyone trying to buy vapes who looks younger than 25, as legally people must be 18 years old to buy them.

Report illegal sales to Trading Standards via Citizens Advice helpline on 0808 2231133.

Future of St Leonards Hospital

Following enquires made to Viewpoint about the future of St Leonard’s Hospital near Ferndown and speculation about whether or not it was functioning, editor Janine Pulford approached Dorset HealthCare for a statement.

Jane Elson, service director for Integrated Community Services at Dorset HealthCare, said: “The beds at St Leonards Hospital closed as part of NHS Dorset’s Clinical Services

Review (CSR), following public consultation in 2017. We have continued to provide a range of outpatient services from the site (including rehabilitation and musculoskeletal services) and it also remains a base for our community teams working in the east of the county.

“St Leonards Hospital will continue to offer a range of services, and support local primary care, for the foreseeable future.”

Dorset Council introduces SignVideo

The deaf community can now communicate in real time with Dorset Council thanks to its partnership with SignVideo. This online video interpreting service connects users with a qualified British Sign Language interpreter and relays their query to a customer advisor. SignVideo can be accessed on a Smartphone or tablet using the SignVideo app, or on a computer when visiting dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ contact-us. Users will need

to set up an account, sign in and select ‘Dorset Council’ from the directory. They will then be connected to a BSL interpreter who will translate their query to one of the council’s customer advisors.

This free service is available online Monday to Friday, 8.30am–5pm. Or, it can be used for emergency calls outside of these hours. Find out more on https://www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/contactus-using-british-sign-language

Daffodil talk

Gwynne Davies gave the Fordingbridge and District Horticultural Society a talk on the numerous types of daffodil grown throughout the ages. He started by clarifying that the daffodil and narcissus are exactly the same plant, having six petals and growing in different combinations of yellow and white. Daffodils love to grow close to water due to the damp atmosphere and their roots grow to around three feet to find more moisture. The seeds take seven years to flower.

Daffodils originated in the Iberian peninsula where many

dwarf varieties still grow wild. They spread all over Europe and were later brought to China. They were first bred in America with Holland later taking over. The Tete a Tete variety is the most popular comprising 50 per cent of Holland’s daffodil bulbs. There are just two indigenous varieties in this country – the Lent Lilly in the Lake District and North Yorkshire National Park and the Tenby daffodil in Swansea.

The first writing about the narcissus appeared in 300 BC and they were included in a 16th century book on flora written

Toddlers unwell after consuming slush ice drinks

by the botanist to Charles I. The first register of daffodil crosses appeared in 1843 and since then 33,000 varieties have been registered, most of which are no longer available. The Emperor and Empress varieties gave rise to 75 per cent of modern daffodils, some growing to five inches across.

Wimborne business shortlisted for South West StartUp Award

Absolute Artisans is a barn turned shop, bursting with incredible, local talented

makers selling a massive range of goods from candles to artworks, jewellery to

homewares, fragrance, fashion and so much more.

It is a beautiful space, for local artisans and makers to take their business to the next level, with fair and achievable terms, to truly allow the artisan, handmade world to thrive once more.

Founded by award winning artist Noah Mckeown in 2022, the business has been nominated for the Rising Star StartUp of the Year.   Noah Mckeown founder of Absolute Artisans, said: “Being shortlisted for this award, after being open for less than six months, is a significant achievement for us. We couldn’t be happier.

“Our vision of creating a fairer world for the artisan/ handmade community, one where they are not stung by heavy commissions or hidden away on back streets has truly come to fruition, and with each new week we become even stronger, and supported by our amazing customers and artisans, we are smashing it! Local money, spent locally, being paid to local people boosts the economy, add that to the beautiful products we offer, the local jobs we have created and our loyal customers, leaves us as very happy businesses owners.”

The Food Standards Agency has reported two toddlers became seriously unwell after consuming a large amount of slush ice drinks in a short time period.

Glycerol (E422) is a key ingredient used in the production in slush ice drinks. It prevents the liquid freezing solid. The levels of glycerol vary depending on the manufacturer.

Drinking one 350ml slush ice drink by toddlers or young children in a short time period could lead to headaches, nausea and vomiting particularly in sensitive individuals.

Consuming more than one slush ice drink quickly could lead to more severe health effects in young children.

There is no legislation limiting the availability of self-service refills and no direct action is currently planned beyond making food businesses aware of the potential risks at this time whilst efforts continue to understand potential safety concerns.

The FSA is working with trade associations to investigate these health concerns. In the meantime Dorset Council’s food safety team is asking those who sell slush ice drinks and especially those offering unlimited refills to be aware of the potential risks with a view to considering limiting quantities for younger age groups such as three year olds and under.

Concerns have been raised over glycerol in slush ice drinks after two toddlers became unwell.

Generators for Ukraine

Along with tons of other donated goods, three badly needed generators were loaded on to a lorry in recent weeks, which set out for Ukraine. Friends from Ringwood U3A raised enough money to send two generators and the manufacturers, MSS Tools, donated a third for free.

By now these will have been allocated to a hospital, an orphanage or to people spending every night in an air raid shelter or cellar with no heating, no light or no means of providing hot food because their electricity supply has been cut off by the bombing.

Did you know? Coronation facts

• Coronations have been held in Westminster Abbey for 900 years.

• There have been 39 Coronations since 1066.

• Charles is the 41st monarch in a line that traces its origins back to William the Conqueror.

• King Charles III will be the oldest monarch to be crowned in England.

• The youngest king ever was Edward VI who became king at the age of 9 from 1547 until his death in 1553.

• The Coronation of King Charles III will be only the second to be televised. The first was that of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

• It is estimated that 2.5 million TVs were sold for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

• Along with Edward VIII and Lady Jane Grey, Edward V is one of only three post1066 British monarchs never to have been crowned.

• Charles 1 is the only English monarch to have been executed.

• Having been on the throne for 70 years, 214 days, Queen Elizabeth II was the longest reigning monarch in British history

Please turn the page to discover what Ringwood has planned for the Coronation.

Karol Swiaki, CEO of the Ukraine Relief Charity with Ann Duckworth, chair, and Judith Purssell, vice chair of Ringwood U3A

King Charles III’s Coronation celebrations in Ringwood

Ringwood has a proud history of hosting memorable community events and the one to mark the Coronation of HM King Charles and HM the Queen Consort will be no exception.

When? - A celebratory event will be held on Sunday 7 May starting at midday.

Where? - It will be held on the Bickerley – the town’s village green. Main programme - The main programme will start at midday with a fair, food and a bar, miniature steam train and a whole suite of inflatables. Live music will feature from 1pm showcasing some fabulous local talent including

The Tuesdays Community Choir, Scarlet Swing, Tommy Hughes and Jodie Elms. Free entry - There is no entry charge.

Bring a picnic blanketPeople are invited to just bring a picnic blanket and get ready to mark this special weekend with the rest of the community.

Sponsors - The companies who are supporting the event include Economy Hire, Allum and Sidaway, Lonsdale Services, Ringwood Motor Company and Simply Beauty. Community organisations who are helping to put on this event include Churches Together, Ringwood Carnival and Ringwood Men’s Shed.

Economy Hire’s commitment to the community

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For over 40 years Economy Hire (Southern) has been providing quality hire across a diverse fleet of vehicles from a small car to a Luton van.

Since Economy’s move to Ringwood in 2014, the company has been committed to supporting the local community and events in

and around the local area.  Most recently vans have been offered to support charities running aid to Ukraine, as well as Ringwood C of E Infant School with their need for hire vehicles. Other charities to benefit include the Ringwood and District Roundtable.  And it doesn’t stop there. Economy Hire sponsors Ringwood Town Council with its local events such as Ringwood Carnival, (gold sponsor in 2022), and fireworks night and will be offering more support at the upcoming Coronation event.

Sponsorship of the Ringwood Town Under 8s football team has also seen Economy play a part in youth sports, and the company aims to continue this into the next season, adding a youth girls’ team to the sponsorship package later this year.

Economy Hire is proud to be involved with the local community.

Blandford Forum makes a great day out

Blandford Forum has just been ranked second as the most searched location via hometogo.co.uk for holidays this spring (with check in dates from 20 March to 21 June).

It’s hardly surprising because one of the first things to strike you when you visit this pretty Georgian town is the charming architecture and the wide range of independent shops. There is plenty of temptation, from lovely clothes you won’t find anywhere else to delightful gifts for all occasions.

And when you need to take a rest, there is a variety of coffee shops with just that spark of individuality.

You can also enjoy some refreshments at the Blandford

Fashion Museum, which is a real gem in the town; indulge your creative senses and produce your own masterpiece at Sophie’s Ceramics and purchase yourself a bicycle should you need one, from Offcamber and if it’s legal advice you are seeking, Kernon Kelleher Solicitors will oblige. Read on to find out what this select group of advertisers do and check out the street map to find out where they are.

Blandford Forum town centre © CatchBox

Mortain suspension bridge over the River Stour, Blandford at sunrise © Danny Howe

Blandford Forum: place of interest 200 years of fashion at The Blandford Fashion Museum

Words and image by Marilyn Barber

The late Mrs Betty Penny founded The Blandford Fashion Museum in 1996.

Located in Lime Tree House, the beautiful Georgian property was built by John and William Bastard after the town’s Great Fire in 1731.

Mrs Penny’s collection of costumes - known locally as the Cavalcade of Costume - forms the nucleus of the present collection. However, it has subsequently almost trebled in size and continues

to grow thanks to generous donations from the public.

The Arts Council gave the museum accredited status in 2010, and renewed it in 2015. The museum receives a small grant from the town council, but no other public funding. As a result, most of the members of staff are volunteers and the museum has a reputation locally for the friendly atmosphere.

There are 13 display spaces over two floors, and a rolling

What we do …

Kernon Kelleher Solicitors

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Based in Blandford Forum and Salisbury.

We offer a service focused on our clients.  We maintain the traditional values of a High Street legal practice harnessed with a responsive and accessible service.  We have embraced technology, but still prefer to see our clients in person where possible.  Direct and honest advice, along with top quality client service, is at the heart of what we do. The practice is built on that service, which combined with modern offices, systems and experienced lawyers delivers fast, flexible and innovative outcomes for our clients. Our services include residential and commercial property, litigation, private client and employment law.

Offcamber

- advertisement feature -

Offcamber is a long established family-run cycle shop.

We are suppliers of Giant, Cannondale and Marin providing all types of road, MTB, gravel, hybrid, electric and children’s bikes.

Our fully qualified Cytech workshop team can deal with all aspects of repair and servicing as well as custom built wheels and bikes.

We really do cater for all: from hardcore cyclists to people who occasionally ride or commute and everything in between. We have a great selection of bikes, along with lots of parts and accessories.   Cyclescheme, finance and other purchase options available. Please feel free to come and take a look.

programme of exhibition changes. Exhibitions show visitors historic dress and textiles and the connection between fashion and social history. The museum features displays covering 200 years of fashion, including the Regency, the 1950s and the Edwardians.

Additional facilities include a Resources Room for use by students studying fashion and textiles and a Lecture Room for study days.

There are two new

Blandford Fashion Museum

- advertisement feature -

Blandford Fashion Museum is one of the only fashion-focused museums in the country, and it’s right here in Dorset.

Situated in a Georgian house, we have displays of fabulous fashions from over 200 years of history, from the Georgians to the 1980s. We also have a gift shop and a tearoom. Please check the events pages to see details of our craft workshops as well our lecture series. We are open 10am-4pm Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Please email fashionmuseumblandford@ gmail.com if you are interested in a group or educational visit. Contact us for volunteering opportunities.

exhibitions for 2023: ‘And So To Bed’ charting the history of sleepwear, and ‘Changing Times: The 1920s’ marking 100 years since the Roaring Twenties.

The museum also boasts a tearoom, serving homemade cakes and scones as well as gift shop with a wide array of fashion related gifts including books and cards.

Sophie’s Ceramics

- advertisement feature -

No matter your age and artistic ability we have space for everyone…

Once through the doors, you will be greeted by a friendly member of the team. Around the studio is a large range of pottery items. A chart shows how each paint looks after firing. Once glazed and fired in the kiln, your pottery will be ready to collect within 7-10 days.

Alongside the painting experience we offer drinks, cakes and sweet treats in our colourful and vibrant café. We host creative parties and events for all occasions. Sophie’s Ceramics can also come to you.

Gamekeeper sentenced

Gamekeeper Paul Scott Allen of Bailey Hill, Wimborne St Giles, has been given a suspended sentenced and fined £2,022 for raptor and firearm offences.

Allen, 54, appeared at Weymouth Magistrates’ Court on 16 February following a guilty plea to multiple raptor persecution offences. He was sentenced to 15 weeks in custody, suspended for 12 months and fined £2,022.

The sentence follows the uncovering of multiple illegally killed birds of prey and banned poisons by Dorset Police, Natural England and the RSPB on the Shaftesbury Estate near Wimborne St Giles in 2021.

The bodies of six shot buzzards and the remains of three more were discovered in Allen’s yard on the estate in 2021 after a poisoned red kite was reported to Dorset Police. It contained high levels of brodifacoum, the deadliest rat poison on the market, which

also killed a white-tailed eagle in the vicinity 10 months later.

The search of Allen’s land uncovered stashes of deadly poisons, including the pesticide bendiocarb, two bottles of the banned substance strychnine, two tins of the banned poison Cymag and the toxic rodenticide brodifacoum.

There was also a loaded gun left propped behind a door in Allen’s home.

The defendant pleaded guilty to two counts of possessing a live or dead wild bird under schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and two charges of failing to comply with the conditions of a firearms certificate. He also admitted using a biocidal product in contravention of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974; possessing an unlawful substance under the Plant Protection Products Regulations 2012, and possessing a regulated

substance without a licence under the Poisons Act 1972.

A satellite-tagged whitetailed eagle, poisoned with seven times the lethal dose of brodifacoum, was found dead 10 months later on the same estate. It is unknown where it picked up the poison. In a disappointing turn of events, the investigation was unexpectedly and prematurely shut down by Dorset Police before a full follow-up search could take place, despite police knowledge that the same substance had been found on the same estate during the investigation.

Mark Thomas, UK head of Investigations at the RSPB, said: “It is clear that the use of the lethal rat poison brodifacoum needs much tighter regulation and controls over use, as it is clearly being both misused and abused to kill birds of prey.

“At the very least this product should be restricted

to indoor use only, as it was before the government relaxed its use in 2016. We also suggest that only accredited pest controllers should be able to use it in specific circumstances. If not, then the unnecessary increase in bird of prey deaths, including white-tailed eagles and red kites, will continue.”

Stephanie Bird-Halton for Natural England added that illegal use of pesticides and biocides not only kills birds of prey, but also poses ongoing risks to the public.

If you spot birds of prey you suspect may have been poisoned, contact the police on 101. Do not touch the bird.

Dead buzzard © RSPB

Schoolchildren create woodland

Trees and children will be growing tall at Verwood Church of England First School and Nursery after pupils planted hundreds of saplings.

The school was recently gifted a piece of land by neighbouring Emmanuel Middle School, which pupils voted to name: Faraway Field.

Kane and Ava, school councillors, applied to The Woodland Trust and were awarded 420 free saplings.

The school’s outdoor learning helper, Hannah Farmer, helped prepare the area so children and staff could plant their tiny trees.

Headteacher Adam Parsons said everyone from nursery children to Year 4 had a wonderful time. He added: “We are extremely proud of our School Council, Eco Team and all our children who care passionately about the environment.

“As well as the fun they have had planting, the children have learned a great deal about the different types of trees we now have here including rowan, hazel and silver birch, about the soil and nutrients they need and the ways in which they will eventually grow to be

Wimborne school football thriller

Queen Elizabeth School’s Under 14 boys’ team made it through to the quarter-finals of a national competition in which nearly 1,000 schools entered.

The match turned out to be a 1-2 thriller against Croydon’s Trinity School when a James Storey free kick halved the deficit. Stout defending from the opposition enabled them to hold on.

The English Schools Football Association Boys Under 14 Playstation Cup is a national competition with many players linked to top professional clubs.

Teacher Shane Green said:

“I am so proud of the team and their achievements.

“They have been excellent throughout the competition and we’ve used the same squad of 16 players.

“It was the boys’ first defeat of the season and we are still in two cups so there is still a great deal still to play for.”

QE has a strong football pedigree with Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and England centre half Ben White both being former students, as was Faustino Anjorin who is at Chelsea and is now on loan at Huddersfield Town for the 2022-23 season.

enjoyed by many more children in the future.”

The pupils will also be adding to the new area with a mud oven, bug houses and nesting boxes.

In return for the gifted land, the school has given some of their trees to Emmanuel Middle School.

PERFECT PLANTING - Hannah Farmer with some of the children

Man attacked in attempted van theft Vehicle ends up in River Stour

A car left the road and was found partially submerged in the River Stour at Blandford, following an incident on Sunday 5 March.

At around 2.20am officers reported seeing a black Kia Sportage driving erratically in Wimborne Road. They reportedly attempted to stop the vehicle but it made off in the direction of the Stour Meadows.

Fire and ambulance services attended. The single male occupant who was checked over had not sustained any injuries.

Further enquiries revealed the vehicle had reportedly been stolen from an address in the town.

A 20-year-old man from Somerton in Somerset was arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary, aggravated taking a vehicle without

© Danny Howe Photography

consent and driving offences.

Arrangements were made to recover the vehicle.

Sergeant Al Marks, of Dorset Police’s Volume Crime Team, said: “We are continuing to conduct enquiries into this matter, and I am keen to hear from anyone with information that might assist our investigation.

“I am particularly keen to hear from any motorists who may have captured anything of relevance on dashcam footage.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police. uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting 55230034630. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

Charity shop opens in Fordingbridge

There was much excitement during the build-up to the opening of Avon Valley Community Matters’ (AVCM) charity shop on Fordingbridge High Street.

Alongside a team of 15 volunteers, staff members and customers, the Mayor of Fordingbridge, Councillor Anna Wilson, attended to cut the ribbon on 27 March.

AVCM supports the bereaved, holds a Friendship Group, two thriving local playgroups, Messy Church

and runs outreach projects for children and families.

With the objective of ‘reaching out to all’, it has been a long-held dream of the charity’s trustees to run a shop to generate income to fund outreach projects within the local churches and the community.

More than just a shop selling pre-loved goods, the vision is also to create a safe, warm and welcoming space for the cold, lonely and the bereaved and in time help nurture young people with Special Educational

A resident of Coniston Close in Verwood sustained a laceration to his cheek and a broken arm during an attempted van theft on Saturday 4 March.

When the resident realised that a group of men in a black SUV-type vehicle were attempting to tow his van off the driveway at around 11.50pm he went out to challenge them.

However, he was struck by a projectile that was believed to have been fired by a catapult, causing a laceration to his cheek. He was also struck by some kind of metal bar or tool and was taken to hospital for treatment to a broken arm.

It is not believed anything was stolen by the offenders and they left the scene

in the black SUV in the direction of Manor Lane.

They are described as a group of four or five men, wearing dark clothing and gloves with their faces covered. If you witnessed any suspicious activity in the area on the night of 4 March, particularly concerning a black SUV-type vehicle, please contact the police at www.dorset.police.uk/ contact or call them on 101, quoting occurrence number 55230034587. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppersuk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.

Needs, and others in need of support, by offering them valuable retail experience.

With an increasing focus on the environment, and the need to care for others being so great in the community, the AVCM team said they feel that the timing of the project is perfect.

AVCM trustee Revd Kate Wilson said: “We have been looking to run a charity shop for some time now, and it seems as if this opportunity has been an answer to prayer. With a lot of hard work and amazing support from volunteers and the community, we are so excited that our dream has finally become a reality. Please do come and support our new shop. Everyone is welcome.”

In order to make this dream a success, more volunteers are needed to help re-stock and welcome customers. Donations of pre-loved goods, including clothes, textiles, shoes, hats, bags, belts, jewellery, bric-abrac, books, toys and puzzles, CDs and DVDs, batteries, ink cartridges and small electrical goods are also required. One or two bags can be delivered to the shop during opening times, larger deliveries can be arranged by appointment by calling 01425 540669.

If you can spare donations or your time to support the new shop, telephone the above number or email avcommunitymatters@ gmail.com.

Mayor Cllr Anna Wilson cuts the ribbon

Revd Kate Wilson with others attending the opening ceremony

Bad foot doesn’t stop litter picker

There were fresh faces and new recruits for the litter pick in West Moors on 4 March and one dedicated resident with a bad foot hobbled around with her litter pick doing her bit for the community. Another spent extra time separating the recyclable items from landfill ones, helping the planet that little bit more.

A spokesperson on behalf of the town council said, “The sincere dedication of our West Moors residents is undeniable. Between these 20 wonderfully generous litter heroes, 26 bags of rubbish were removed off the streets of West Moors. It would bring satisfaction to say that the litter pick today was an early spring clean, but unfortunately, West Moors Town Council has been carrying out bi-monthly litter picks, since 2021, and this was yet another necessary

clean-up of litter that is strewn onto our streets, every day.”

She explained that an unacceptable amount of cigarette butts was collected and said: “Cigarette butts are made of a type of plastic (plasticised cellulose acetate), and are not biodegradable. One can take 14 years to break apart, its toxins seeping into the earth. It breaks apart into microplastics, which stay in the environment for an unknown period of time.”

The next litter pick is on Monday, 8 May and will coincide with the Big Help Out for the Coronation weekend. If you’d like to join in visit www. westmoors-tc.gov.uk.

Cigarette butts are classed as litter and you can be fined for dropping them on the ground or throwing them out of a car window.

Commonwealth flag raised in Wimborne

A ceremony to mark the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Commonwealth Charter took place outside Wimborne Town Hall on Monday 13 March.

Wimborne Minster Town Council raised the Commonwealth flag after the affirmation speech was read out by the Mayor of Wimborne, Councillor Carol Butter.

Those present were the deputy mayor, Cllr Diann March; the town crier, Chris Brown; The Rev Canon Andrew Rowland; Anthony and Christine Oliver, Cllr Ann Roberts, and Alderman/Honorary Freeman, Mrs Pat Hymers.

The theme for Commonwealth Day 2023 ‘Forging a sustainable and peaceful common future’ aims to unite 2.5 billion Commonwealth citizens in celebration of their shared values and principles, and in pursuit of a common future, centred on sustainability and peace

This was the first

Commonwealth Day presided over by His Majesty King Charles III as King and Head of the Commonwealth. The day also marked the 10th anniversary of the signing of the Commonwealth Charter which outlines the values and principles that unify the 56 Commonwealth countries, representing one-third of humanity.

A bad foot didn’t stop this volunteer

Photo by Christine Oliver

Coronation cheese, potato and pineapple pasties

Ideal for a street party during the Coronation

Prep time 40 minutes

Cooking time 15-20 minutes | Makes 48

Ingredients

• 300g small Maris Piper potatoes · 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 1 can (435g) Del Monte® pineapple slices in juice,finely chopped

• 200g cheddar, grated · 4 x 320g packs ready rolled puff pastry

• 1 egg, lightly beaten · Salt and pepper

Method

• Peel potatoes, bring to boil, add 1 tsp of salt. Simmer for 15 minutes, drain well and cool.

• Heat oil in large frying pan and cook onions for 10 minutes until softened. Remove from heat.

• Cut cooled potatoes into 1cm cubes and add to the onion along with chopped pineapple pieces and cheddar, stir gently to combine. Season to taste.

• Preheat oven to 200°C, Fan 180°C, gas mark 6.

• Unroll pastry sheets onto lightly floured surface. Roll or trim to size: 24cm x 32cm. Cut each sheet into 12 x 8cm squares.

• Take a square of pastry, lightly brush edges with beaten egg, place a spoonful of potato and pineapple mix into the centre, fold in half to form a triangle. Press edges together to seal, repeat until all squares are used up. Ensure pasties are as full as possible.

• Using the end of a fork press around the edges of the pasties to create a pattern and ensure they are fully sealed. Brush with beaten egg and place on baking sheets lined with baking parchment. With a small knife make two small slits in the top of each pasty. Bake until puffed up and golden. You may need to do this in batches.

Ingredients

• 9g Rapeseed oil

• 480g Diced goat meat

• 9g Rapeseed oil (2nd oil)

• 150g Small diced red onions

• 68g Small diced celery

• 9g Crushed garlic

• ¾ tsp Ground cumin

• ½ tsp 1tsp Ground coriander

• 1tsp Ground turmeric

• 1/8 tsp Ground sweet paprika

• 1&1/8 tsp Ground cayenne powder Ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp Dried mint

• 3g Fresh mint

• 1/8 tsp Salt

• 535g Water

• 23g Tomato paste

• 18g Lamb stock cube

• 1 tsp Harrissa paste alfez

• 450g Tinned chopped tomatoes in juice

• 180g Pomegranate juice

• 65g Chopped dried apricots

• 35g Chopped dried dates

• 90g Tinned chick peas

Method

1. Fry goat meat in oil until lightly browned

2. Remove meat add oil, then add celery, garlic & onions

3. Add all spices, & herbs, return goat meat

4. Add harrissa paste, tomato paste, salt & water

5. Add lamb stock cube, tomatoes & pomegranate juice

6. Add dried fruit bring to the boil, place in oven on a slow heat for 45mins. Take out of oven, add chick peas, place back in oven & cook for a further 40mins on a slow heat. Remove from oven test if meat is soft.

Serve. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Order your goat meat or for more recipes go online www.newbarnfarmdorset. co.uk

D-Day Darlings

If you love a little nostalgia and timeless songs with lyrics that evoke memories, you will love the D-Day Darlings. They will be returning to Verwood on Saturday 29 April for a matinee performance at 2pm at the Verwood Hub. Formed by founder and lead singer Katie

Ashby 10 years ago the D-Day Darlings were originally a trio, they are now an army of girls who continue their mission of keeping the wartime spirit alive and into the new generation. Book online at https://www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/thedday-darlings-2023

REVIEW: Feast of Fiddles, Tivoli Theatre, 21 March

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

This concert at the Wimborne theatre certainly turned out to be a feast with 10 hugely talented musicians and singers filling the stage and playing a variety of instruments.

There were five men and one woman primarily on violins, plus one on a melodeon two on guitars and one drummer. However some of them didn’t limit themselves to one instrument with Marion Fleetwood – who was interviewed for Dorset View ahead of the concert – also playing a cello and a guitar.

Hugh Crabtree, the boss of the band, which he founded in 1994, was on the melodeon compering the show with just

Blowin’ In The Wind

The Kilkennys ‘Blowin’ In The Wind’ tour is coming to the Regent, Christchurch on Friday 14 April.

The world-renowned Irish folk and ballad group will perform such classics such as ‘The Dutchman’, ‘Shoals

of Herring’ and ‘Follow Me Up to Carlow’, ‘Nation Once Again’ and the masterpiece ‘Blowin In The Wind’. A Kilkennys’ performance never fails to excite. Tickets on sale from theregent. co.uk or 01202 499199.

the right touch of humour.

It was clear that most of the audience had seen the band several times before and probably knew many of their pieces of music. However, it was all new to me, but that didn’t matter as I was blown away by the melodic music and songs that told a tale.

“It is English, Scottish and Irish folk music – but rocked up,” said Marion, whose beautiful voice added so much to what until recently was an all-male band.

With so many brilliant musicians on stage it doesn’t seem fair to single anyone out, but I have to heap praise on the moving performances of

violinists Peter Knight (formerly of Steeleye Span), Brian McNeil (Battlefield Band), and Ian Cutler (Bully Wee).

This is a band of friends that puts on a show with a huge dynamic range

performed with passion, joy and a liberal dose of fun. What more can you ask of a performance, which clearly the audience loved.

Let’s hope we see them at the Tivoli again.

Property renovated to provide local homes

West View in Blandford, which had been empty for a long time, is being extensively renovated to provide six single bedroom units for local people.

It was identified by empty homes officers working for Housing Standards at Dorset Council, who track down longterm empty properties and work with property owners to turn them into good quality homes. In this case they purchased West View and secured funding to renovate it in 2021. Builders started work in September 2022.

Cllr Graham Carr-Jones, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Housing and Community Safety said: “I am delighted that the project to renovate and use West View to provide homes is nearing completion. The project team have taken an abandoned, dilapidated, eye sore and turned it into an invaluable home and

asset for Blandford.”

He thanked neighbours and residents of Blandford for their patience while the work was carried out and added: “By purchasing such long-term empty properties like West View, the council will be giving people a breathing space in much needed accommodation, with the support to move on to more permanent homes, as well as using money in a more sustainable way than high-cost bed and breakfast accommodation.”

If you are aware of a longterm empty property that the council could consider in this way, contact www. dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/ housing/housing/emptyhomes

Sweet smell of success in The Furlong

- advertisement feature -

Although shopping trends change over the years, there’s always something that doesn’t go out of fashion –customer service excellence and this is the ethos behind independently owned and operated Perfumery & Co, who opened their second store in Ringwood at The Furlong shopping centre last autumn.

Co-founder, David F J McConnachie, is no stranger to talking to customers about the products he loves. He comments: “The experience of bygone era shopping with a friendly welcome, knowledgeable advice and complimentary gift wrapping seems to be becoming a dying art. We want every single one of our customers leaving our store to feel like a million dollars. That’s why we put so much behind our customer service and we’re continuing to invest in experiences for our

clients that they can’t replicate with their online purchases.”

This is a coup for Ringwood because luxury brands such as Hermes, Molton Brown (sold exclusively in the New Forest), NEOM, Noble Isle, L’OCCITANE and desirable perfumes from Marc Jacobs to Givenchy, are now available in one boutique store in a prime and easily accessible courtyard location. The Perfumery & Co owners are also enthusiastic about bringing experiential retail to their Ringwood customers with monthly facials from luxury skincare brand, ELEMIS. They also offer ‘Fragrance Fittings’ to help find your perfect scent, bridal perfumery experiences and makeovers using their Stila beauty range. Open 10am-5pm Monday to Saturday and 10.30am-3.30pm Sunday.

www. perfumeryandcompany.com

Discover the spectacular Ironbridge Gorge with Heathside Travel

Heathside Travel are heading to Shropshire and the Severn Valley on Sunday 18 June for a four-night stay at the four star Telford Hotel.

This hotel boasts stunning views, lovely grounds, a spa, swimming pool and an 18-hole golf course.

During your holiday, discover the spectacular Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its majestic Iron Bridge. Visit Blists Hill, an open air museum which takes you back to life in an authentic Victorian community. Enjoy a leisurely River Severn cruise, with refreshments served on board, and a classic rail journey on the Severn Valley Railway, one of the top heritage railway attractions in the country. Spend time in the historic market town of Ludlow and the fine Tudor town of Shrewsbury where you can explore at your own pace.

The tour price of £530 includes four nights dinner, bed and breakfast at the hotel, all your luxury coach travel and excursions, and the expertise and care of a knowledgeable tour guide. For more information, please contact Heathside Travel on 01202 892202, or email info@heathsidetravel.co.uk.

Guest speaker Shevaun Haviland

Shevaun Haviland, director general of the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), is to speak at Dorset Chamber’s president’s lunch on 19 April.

Hosted by president Caron Khan, it will also mark the official launch of a three-day Dorset Business Festival 2023 being held in October.

Ms Haviland will give the keynote speech at the Italian Villa, Poole with a focus on the economy and campaigning priorities.

Shevaun’s CV includes roles at the Walt Disney Company, WPP, Dot Native and an edtech charitable foundation as well as the Cabinet Office and Number 10 where she managed business partnerships and ran the Inclusive Economy Partnership. Visit dorsetchamber.co.uk/event/presidents-lunch/ to book.

Shevaun Haviland

Coronation events

WIMBORNE

Saturday 6 May

The Minster will be showing the Coronation on a big screen. If you’re on your own and want to watch in a truly special venue, come along. Everyone is welcome.

Sunday 7 May The Big Lunch 11am-7pm

The Coronation Concert will be streamed across screens in Wimborne Square. Enjoy the Coronation Big Lunch with live music and a gameshow also in the Square. Picnic facilities are free to use. The event will include children’s entertainment, live music and a fair.

Monday 8 May 10am-4pm

Volunteers Information Day

Wimborne Minster Town Council is inviting local charity organisations and groups to come along and set up a stall in the town centre to promote the work they do within the community, to encourage people to try volunteering and join the work being undertaken to support the community (free of charge). Stall application forms from www.wimborne.gov.uk or a paper copy can be obtained from the Town Council Offices, 37 West Borough, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 1LT, during office hours Monday to Friday 9.30am1pm. The closing date for stall applications is Friday 21 April. For more information email office@ wimborne.gov.uk or telephone 01202 881655.

1-7 May

Wimborne Model Town Coronation Quiz.

Events

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

15 April 10am-4pm

Poole Vikings Model Club exhibition at Parkstone Grammar School, Sopers Lane, Poole BH17 7EP. https:// poolevikingsblog.wordpress.com/

15 April 11am

Bournemouth 1910 centenary talk at Boscombe Library. Free. Book at email: boscombelibrary@ bcocouncil.gov.uk

15 April 12noon

Wimborne Repair Café at Wimborne Methodist Church, 4a, King Street, BH21 1DY. Contact wimbornrrepaircafe@gmail.com to let them know you are coming.

15 April 10am-2pm

West Moors Bowling Club spring fair Station Road. All welcome free entry. Contact 01202 892033, For more information www.westmoorsbowls.club

15 April 11.30am-2.30pm

Moors Manor Care Home spring fair at 243, Ringwood Road, St Leonards, BH24 2DW.

15 and 16 April

Model Railway Exhibition

‘Wimborne Railex’. at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne.

FERNDOWN

Sunday 7 May

King George V Playing Fields will host a celebration to include games, stalls, rides, entertainment, fireworks, food and drink.

FORDINGBRIDGE

Sunday 7 May 2.30pm-6pm

The Coronation Big Picnic is being held at Fordingbridge Recreation Ground. There will be a beer tent, a hog roast and a barbecue plus live music, a disco, fairground rides and a sweet stall. You can even bring your own picnic. At 2.30pm there will be a re-dedication of the Recreation Ground to commemorate 100 years of it being given to the town. The lighting of the town’s celebration beacon will take place at 6pm.

VERWOOD

Sunday 7 May

Royal picnic in the park at Verwood Recreation Ground.

WEST MOORS

King Charles III Coronation Badges are on sale at the West Moors Town Council offices in Park Way for just £1 each. Pop in to purchase yours.

RINGWOOD

Sunday 7 May

Ringwood Town Council will be hosting a celebratory event on Bickerley Village Green. For full details see feature on pages 19 and 20.

16 April 10am-3pm

Dorset Ultimate Canoe Kayak Squad – DUCKS - open day at Longham Lakes, BH22 9BP. Bring clothes suitable for getting wet and a spare change of dry clothes.

16 and 21 April 10am-4pm

Ferndown Bowls Club free open days at King George V playing fields, off Church Road, Ferndown, BH22 9EN.

16 April 3pm

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

17 April 7.30pm

Colehill Floral Arrangement Club. Colehill Village Hall, Cannon Hill Road. Visitors welcome £5. Contact 01202 610902.

17 April 10am-12noon

Every Monday drop in for a warm welcome and a free cuppa at Blandford Library, The Tabernacle DT11 7DW. 01258 452075

17 April 7.30pm

Wimborne in Bloom AGM in the Town Hall, 37 West Borough, Wimborne Minster.

19-22 April 7.30pm

Ferndown Drama presents three one-act plays at The Barrington Centre. www.ticketsource.

co.uk/ferndown-drama

BOURNEMOUTH, CHRISTCHURCH AND POOLE

Saturday and Sunday 6 & 7 May

Big screens will be in situ in the Lower Gardens, Bournemouth; The Quomps, Christchurch and Baiter Park, Poole. Residents are encouraged to bring chairs and a picnic.

BLANDFORD

5-8 May

Blandford Town Council plans to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III with free community events. Friday will be proms night, Saturday is Coronation Day, Sunday will be the community lunch and music, and Monday will see The Big Help Out, which will be promoting volunteering in the area. To get involved email admin@blandfordforum-tc.gov.uk

WEYMOUTH

7 May 3pm-6pm

The Friends of Greenhill Gardens in Weymouth are holding a Coronation celebration at Greenhill Tennis Courts at The Esplanade. The three hours of live entertainment will be provided by The 4 Saxes who have performed all over Dorset and in particular, regularly at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Weymouth’s very own five person group – The Originals who perform 60s, 70s and 80s music.

21 April 7.30pm

Avon Valley Concerts at the Trinity Centre, Christchurch Road, Ringwood BH24 1DH. www.avonvalleyconcerts.com

21, 22 and 23 April

Bournemouth Writing Festival in venues in Bournemouth Town Centre. www.

BournemouthWritingFestival.co.uk

22 April 1pm

International Organ Day Recital by John Radford at Wimborne St Giles Church BH21 5LZ. Coffee & cake served from 12.30pm. Admission Free. Retiring Collection for DEC Turkey-Syria Appeal.

22 April 7.30pm

Grange Choral Society concert at Christchurch Priory. www. christchurchpriory.org/ services-and-events, 01202 485804 or on the door.

22 April 10am-3pm

Dorset Family History Day at St George’s Church Hall, Darbys Lane, Oakdale, Poole, BH15 3EU. Free Admission and parking.

25 April 11am-12noon

Reminiscence, a friendly informal group at Blandford Library, DT11 7DW (fourth Tuesday of the month). Info 01258 452075

28 April 2-4pm

Stepping out community tea dance at the Broadstone War Memorial Hall BH18 8AW. Music for those with memory loss and their carers. Phone Lesley Shand’s on 01202 658833.

29 April 10am – 3pm

Artisan Makers Market at Wimborne Community Centre, Kings Street Car Park Wimborne BH21 1EA. Free admission and dogs welcome.

29 April 11am-11.30am

Story and Play for parents and carers who have young children with additional needs at Blandford Library, DT11 7DW. Book in advance via Eventbrite. Info 01258 452075.

30 April

Family open day at Ferndown Bowls Club, King George V playing fields, off Church Road, Ferndown, BH22 9EN. www.ferndownbowls. co.uk or call 01202 578375

1 – 26 May 10am-4pm

Poole Leisure Painters Spring Exhibition, Wimborne Community Learning and Resource Centre, 41-44 King St, Wimbone, BH21 1EB. Closed weekends.

4 May 1.30-3.30pm

The Ferndown COPD Support Group meets every first Thursday of each month at the Ferndown Day Centre BH22 9JP.

4 May 7.15-9.15pm

Ferndown & District Historical Society talk at The Barrington Centre: ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times’ (Charles Dickens) with Mr and Mrs Brian Sutton. Visitors £4, refreshments provided.

EXCLUSIVE Witchampton bells will ‘Ring for the King’

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

Throughout the country plans are being made to ‘Ring for the King’ for the Coronation of King Charles III on 6 May.

In the parish church of St Mary, St Cuthberga and All Saints Church in Witchampton, they are particularly excited as seven of the ringers are relatively new to bell ringing.

However, they are all hugely enthusiastic and committed and imbued with a tremendous community spirit.

Tower captain Suzie Rose, who together with her husband Michael has been a bell ringer for 30 years said that for two-and-a-half years they had been without bell ringers, until in October 2021 some villagers said they would like to see the return of ringing in this picturesque village.

Suzie said that it takes a few months for new ringers to get control of the bells.

“They need some sort of rhythm and determination, and it is definitely team work.”

They ring for the monthly service in the church, as well as every Sunday morning and practice evenings on Wednesdays.

What made the new bell ringers join this team activity, which dates back more than 400 years?

“My friend Camilla Culley and I were walking through the village and talking about our daughters, both of whom are getting married in the church this year,” said Philippa Connor, “and we said it would be nice if the bells rang again. So we approached Suzie and said we would like to have a go. Now it gives me such a buzz. As a former teacher it’s good for me to learn something for the first time. It certainly tests the grey matter and it’s a team thing.”

Richard Thorne said: “When a group of friends were talking about it I wanted to join them and for the bells to ring again. I failed in my efforts initially but now I’m getting there.”

And Tim Read said: “Witchampton is very special, a parochial treasure and we are all

able to give each other support.”

Fiona, Tim’s wife added: “It’s a challenge, but we all like a challenge and Suzie gives us so much guidance. Now we’re all hooked. And we even won a novice competition, which took place in Shroton last July. That inspired us.”

In addition to Richard, Tim, Fiona and Philippa and Camilla, the other ringers are Tony Lock and Dan Cully.

The bells date back to 1776 and so they have been rung for services and special occasions in Witchampton for over 200 years.

Suzie said: “Ringing is a

service to the church but it is also a wonderful hobby, ranging from basic to almost unlimited complexity so there is something to suit everyone.

“We have six bells and our biggest bell, the tenor, weighs in at almost half a ton. In the year 2000 a very successful appeal was launched to raise funds to have the bells and mechanism completely refurbished and they were returned from the Whitechapel bell foundry, for the first time ever, accurately tuned.”

Suzie added that the new ringers are an enthusiastic and loyal band.

She said: “As tower captain I am responsible for coordinating practice evenings and liaising with the volunteers who come out from Wimborne Minster to teach and supervise them. I am on board at every practice to help the tutors and generally ‘hold the threads together’ so we act as a cohesive band. I also am responsible for ensuring we always have a band of ringers for weddings so I liaise with wedding couples and the clergy.

“We are truly grateful for the expertise and dedication of the Wimborne ringers, without whom this initiative would never have got off the ground.”

L-R – Tim, Phlippa, Fiona, Suzie and Richard

Watch what you’re doing when driving

Although technically legal, there are everyday driving habits that could land drivers in trouble with the law. Just because something is legal doesn’t mean motorists cannot be prosecuted if their behaviour impacts their ability to control the vehicle.

While on the road, drivers must obey the Highway Code and have complete control of their vehicles.

Rule 148 of the code states safe driving and riding need concentration without distraction to avoid potentially endangering anyone.

Motoring experts from Quotezone.co.uk, a provider of insurance and personal finance, are sharing their insights on controversial car myths to help drivers avoid trouble on the road.

Greg Wilson, the founder at Quotezone.co.uk, said: “Many

motorists believe because there is no specific law about doing certain things while driving, it is ok and safe.

“This is dangerous because anything, which impedes control could have serious consequences.”

Here is Quotezone. co.uk’s list of controversial driving habits, which are legal but could cost drivers: Driving without shoes

There is a lot of uncertainty around whether driving barefoot is illegal, but there is no law against it, nor is there for wearing flip-flops. However, there is a catch. If a driver’s choice of footwear, or lack thereof, results in dodgy or erratic driving, they could be pulled over and charged for driving without due care and attention, facing a fine of up to £5,000 and up to nine points on their licence. Motorists

must be able to operate the pedals safely, with rule 97 of the Highway Code stating drivers must have footwear, which does not prevent them from correctly using controls. Not being able to use the brakes properly could result in a severe collision.

Driving with an interior light on There is no law against driving with an interior light on, but it can distract and interfere with vision by reflecting on the car windscreen. For this reason, if a driver is pulled over after driving badly, they could expect a careless driving charge.

Driving with headphones in To drive safely, motorists should use all their senses to anticipate a problem, and cutting out hearing means you can miss huge clues that something is wrong. While no specific law prevents a driver from using headphones while driving, if caught using them behind the wheel and driving dangerously, police officers can charge a motorist with driving without due care and attention or careless driving. Careless driving can land drivers with an on-the-spot fine of £100 and three penalty

points, but if taken to court, the consequences can be much worse, increasing to fines of £5,000 and a driving ban.

Smoking and driving

Smoking at the wheel isn’t an illegal offence, but it distracts from the road and can be used to show careless or dangerous driving. Taking eyes off the road to light a cigarette could put road users at risk, as the Highway Code specifically lists smoking as a distraction. Coupled with bad driving, the habit could lead to a case in court, a fine of up to £2,500, nine penalty points and even a temporary ban. It can cause an accident and severe consequences like imprisonment in extreme circumstances. It is against the law to smoke in a vehicle with someone under 18 present under the Children and Families Act 2015, and could result in a fine.

Eating and driving

Although eating while driving is technically legal it could impede on control of a vehicle. If the police believe a driver eating or drinking behind the wheel caused a distraction and loss of control, they can be fined for careless driving.

Motorists have been urged to understand five common car-based misconceptions to avoid facing penalties.

BATHROOM & KITCHEN INSTALLATION

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

Advertise here Call 01202 816140

Remembering the good times

It was a lovely sunny day 55 years ago in March. This handsome lad and I were married. Eddie was 24 and I was 21 – we look like a pair of kids! We won’t ever celebrate our golden wedding anniversary because Eddie died suddenly in 1996, but we did have our silver one and 28 years and three children together. Now I choose to focus on the years we had and refuse to regret the years we didn’t have. Love never dies.

DEAR EDDIE REMEBERING THAT DAY FIFTY-FIVE YEARS AGO

Fifty-five years ago

I became your wife

Expecting – as newly weds do We’d be together for life

Together we had our children

Who gave us fun and laughter

And now those twenty-eight years

Must count as our happy ever after

Pamela Fudge/09 March 2023

CORRESPONDENCE

To

Thank you for your support

A warm “Thank you” for your support in 2022. We raised £1,800 for the local MS Society in June and £1,720 for Dorset Cancer Care at Poole Hospital in July. Incidentally, the total donations given to Poole from our events now totals an amazing £13,680. We hope to match last year’s fundraising.

Fay and Michael Clifford

Brackenwood Charity Open Garden

Holt

NEWS IN BRIEF

Guest speaker – West Moors Annual Town Council Meeting will take place at St Anthony’s Church Hall, Pinehurst Road on 13 April at 7pm. Guest speaker will be Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner, David Sidwick.

Poulner skate ramp in the pipeline – Ringwood Town Council’s Recreation, Leisure and Open Spaces Committee has agreed in principle to the installation of a quarter-pipe ramp at the North Poulner play area. Officers are to investigate how it should be funded.

New Forest High Harm Team – led by Sergeant Andy Gwyer and so far comprising four police officers, the New Forest High Harm Team was launched on Monday 20 March. Based out of Lyndhurst Police Station, the team will cover the whole of the New Forest district and will be dedicated to combating the areas of most harm in local communities, including targeting county lines

Grant for teenager – West Moors Town Council has awarded Jessica White, aged 16, with a grant of £250 under the Apprentice or Vocational Training Grant scheme.

Easter bonnets and Coronation – Verwood Afternoon Townswomen’s Guild will have an Easter bonnet competition in April. In May it will celebrate the Coronation. For more info ring Judi on 01202 053264.

Dementia group award – West Moors Town Council has awarded a grant of £750 to Dementia Action group to continue with its meetings and sessions and seek ways of supporting people with dementia, and their carers. To apply to join the Local Dementia Action contact 01202 873272.

Dorset Council grants – local community and cultural organisations across Dorset have been awarded just over £120K in financial support from Dorset Council to assist with their work in local communities.

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Miss Honey Guinea Pig Rescue to the rescue

By Janine Pulford | janine@dorsetview.co.uk

Local couple Michele and Phil Cullimore from St Leonards near Ringwood had no idea when they fostered their first guinea pigs that they were destined to start up their own rescue service.

“We didn’t realise the amount of guinea pigs being surrendered,” said Michele, who is a nurse practitioner and her husband Phil, who is equally mad about guinea pigs, is a paramedic. Both work for the NHS.

They started fostering guinea pigs for a local rescue about 18 months ago and now have their own rescue service. So far they have nearly 80 guinea pigs.

You might think ‘piggies’ as they affectionately call them, are cheap to keep as pets – and they are, in pairs – but Michele and Phil are racking up a staggering £170 a week to keep their herd fed and looked after.

One of the difficulties in rehoming guinea pigs is that most people want babies, so the more mature guinea pigs get overlooked. Another drawback is that they only become popular pets in the warmer months. “In the winter no one is interested,” said Michele.

However, they are ideal pets because they can be great company for children if handled correctly. They live for around four to six years, which isn’t such a long term commitment as it is for a dog, cat or rabbit.

Having said that Michele has two male guinea pigs that are aged eight and 10, so there are rule-breakers. Judging by the sea of guinea pigs at the rescue, there must be many reasons why people have to give them up. The most frequent are:

• Allergies to hay or fur

• Children get bored with them and parents don’t have the time

• One guinea pig dies, and the owner doesn’t want to get another to keep it company

• Can’t afford to keep them

• Neglect

But for a creature so easy to keep, it is a shame that so many get abandoned.

A diet of fresh vegetables, hay, water and pellets will keep them healthy and they need to be cleaned regularly. Vaccinations are not required.

“They should always be kept in pairs or they will get depressed,” said Michele.

Female guinea pigs will live together harmoniously or with a neutered male.

Boys are a different matter. They can usually only be kept in pairs because if they live in groups they will fight. If they draw blood, they must be separated.

In rare cases, when scared, guinea pigs will bite.

You may think Michele and Phil are bonkers having a houseful of guinea pigs but it doesn’t end there.

“We have two dogs, Bertie and Elsie. Both are rescue dogs and love the piggies – well stealing their cucumber and peppers – but we never leave them near the piggies unsupervised,” said Michele.

When you have a herd of guinea pigs, like Michele and Phil, the bill for fresh veg, hay and pellets soon adds up. So Miss Honey Guinea Pig Rescue is always in need of donations.

Michele said: “Any donation is gratefully received as we are completely self-funded. We both work full time and do overtime to enable us to fund our rescue. If we had to choose one thing for donations it would be fresh vegetables, but anything is hugely appreciated.”

So what do Phil and Michele love most about their piggies? “The greeting you get from them when they hear our voices or mainly when they hear the salad bag being opened,” said Michele.

“And how different their personalities are and how loving and gentle they are,” adds Phil.

Michele recalled the funniest

chat

thing that happened in the day of a life of a guinea pig rescue, although it wasn’t funny at the time.

“One escaped,” she said. “I was getting him in from his run and a he slipped my grasp. I spent the next three hours running up and down my garden chasing him. He thought it was a great game.”

Eventually she barricaded him in round a bush but still couldn’t catch him.

In a panic she called friends and family for help because the guinea pig was due to be adopted, but it was Phil who came to the rescue.

“He came home from work, stepped over my barricade, and picked the guinea pig up, just like that. To say I needed to lie down in a dark room, would be an understatement.”

With such big characters and making noises like wheeking, purring, chuttering and rumbling, you can’t help but adore these little balls of fur.

Michele sums them up fondly: “They are just gorgeous little animals. The effort of caring for them is far outweighed by the love they give us. Seeing them when they first come in, how frightened they can be and some in terrible condition, to when they leave for their forever homes, confident, healthy, and happy little piggies is very rewarding.”

If you’d like to get in touch about rehoming a guinea pig visit Miss Honey Guinea Pig Rescue on Facebook or call 07919 160628.

Group of ‘talkative’ bonded boys having a

Michele with Mr Wilson: cuddle time after his health check

Mr Salty, aged 10 months, loving his carrot

Harrowden Turf with benefits

Eco Sustainable Solutions in Parley, has joined forces with Harrowden Turf to include several varieties of Meadowmat wildflower turf. The new range of wildflower turf will make it easier to create beautiful and sustainable outdoor spaces at home or in a commercial environment.

Connor Scott, sales manager at Eco Sustainable Solutions said: “This wildflower turf has an incredible ability to retain colour and lushness, even in challenging conditions. Not only this but it’s a naturally speedy way to create a

wildlife-friendly patch in your garden. These turfs are applicable to a wide range of landscaping applications, including residential and commercial lawns.”

Wildflower lawns and meadows are great for biodiversity providing bees, butterflies, and other important pollinators with food. On a single day in summer, one acre of wildflower meadow can contain three million flowers, producing a kilogram of nectar sugar for thousands of honeybees.

Group marketing manager

at Harrowden Turf, Simon Marsh, commented: “The green agenda has never been more important, each piece of our Meadowmat Wildflower Turf is nurtured from seed to dispatch, grown outdoors and wherever possible using UK-

sourced seeds. With wildflower turf becoming more and more popular this is set to be a great partnership and start to 2023.”    Harrowden’s Meadowmat Wildflower Turf is now available to purchase on Eco’s website thisiseco.co.uk.

Disposable vape causes property fire

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to a house in Netheravon, Wiltshire on 7 March following a disposable vape fire.

Firefighters from Pewsey and Salisbury were called to the property and on arrival found a fire within a bedroom on the first floor. Two firefighters in breathing apparatus used one hose reel jet to extinguish the fire.

Station Manager Darren Masini said: “The fire started after an attempt to recharge a disposable vape caused it to explode.  One of the occupants heard the explosion and raised the alarm, calling us for help. The occupants were extremely lucky to avoid injury following this fire.”

He added: “Single use e-cigarettes or ‘vapes’ are not designed to be recharged as they do not have the correct safety systems. These disposable models should only be used once.”

The following advice should always be followed by e-cigarette users:

• Never leave e-cigarettes on charge and unattended for long periods, and never leave a device on charge overnight.

• Don’t mix components of different e-cigarettes.

• Only use the charger supplied.

• Ensure that you purchase your e-cigarette from a reputable source.

• Check the e-cigarette carries CE certification.

• Follow the manufacturer’s guidance.

• Never charge e-cigarettes near or on combustible or flammable materials.

• Contact Trading Standards over any e-cigarette safety concerns.

For more advice on the safe use of e-cigarettes, visit www.dwfire.org.uk/ smoking-and-e-cigarettes

Spring is in the air!

With the arrival of spring, many of us will want to start the new season with a clean and welcoming home.

Spring cleaning involves organising the home from the bottom up and cleaning everything from appliances to doormats, but have you considered cleaning your air?

There are air purifiers made for the job.

Indoor air pollution is

made up of a combination of dust and particles or gases from everyday household products such as candles, paint and varnish to floors. Airborne traffic pollution can even get inside homes and pollute the air.

Breathing in this fine dust or PM2.5 (also known as fine particulate matter) is a concern for people’s health when levels in the air are high

and the air appears hazy. Ironically the chemicals from cleaning products used in your spring clean will also contribute to air pollution. Using an air purifier will help remove toxins.

Blueair claims its air purifiers remove at least 99.97% of all airborne particles such as pollen, smoke, dust, mould, spores, bacteria, viruses, pet allergens and microplastics as small as 0.1 microns in size from the air we breathe.

Lars Dunberger, technology development manager at Blueair said: “Investing in an air purifier means investing in your health. An air purifier can help you to spring clean the air in your home and ensure you are breathing in

the cleanest air possible.” Visit blueair.com for more details. Other suggestions on reducing air pollution in your home are:

• Avoid anything that burns, such as wood in the fireplace, gas logs and even candles or incense

• Keep rooms clean (vacuuming can stir up dust so use a mop where possible)

• Don’t smoke

• Air your house (but not if you are letting in more fumes and dust from outside)

• Avoid air cleaners that work by generating ozone, which will increase the pollution in your home. (Source: AirNow).

Image courtesy of Blueair

Ringwood ECO fair

Saturday 20 May from 10.30am

Would like to know about alternative technologies like solar panels?

Want ideas for upcycling? Interested in reducing food waste? Then pop along to Ringwood’s ECO fair.

Organised by Ringwood Actions for Climate Emergency (RACE), this year’s fair is focusing on making space for nature. Fifty dwarf fruit trees will be given away

to be planted in Ringwood gardens. First come, first served.

The ECO fair will be located in the Furlong and outside the Gateway Building near Ringwood car park and bus stops. There will be stalls and local craft stalls selling honey, beeswax candles, organic seeds, plastic free household goods and more. Plus, from 2pm there will be a clothes swap in the Meeting House.

Children can create their own leaf art, sample vegan food, build a bug hotel and learn about trees and their importance. Meet the New Forest National Park Authority and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust.

Enjoy live music, and Forest FM will be broadcasting from the event. Shops and cafes will be open.

Mary DeBoos from RACE said: “The past two events have been a great opportunity for people to share ideas, get new inspiration and explore small steps we can all take to help the planet. We hope to see lots of people joining in this year too.”

Join The Big Help Out

King Charles III is using his Coronation to shine a light on volunteering and Volunteer Centre Dorset has announced it will lead on The Big Help Out in the county.

The Big Help Out will launch on the Coronation Bank Holiday on Monday 8 May, with a ‘national day of volunteering and community action’. This will continue to build throughout the year.

Volunteer Centre Dorset have hundreds of volunteering opportunities, ready now for anyone who would like to do one-off tasks, help at events, or wants a regular volunteering commitment – there is literally something for everyone.

Whether you’re counting butterflies, building a drystone wall, shopping for a neighbour, helping at a youth club, or creating a website for a charity, you can make a difference, and have a lot of fun along the way.

Alongside The Big Help Out, volunteering will be championed and volunteers thanked throughout the year, including across the summer during Volunteers Week from 1–7 June, Thank You Day on 2 July, and the Volunteer Centre Dorset’s Volunteer Celebration Evening on 6 October. To find out more visit www. volunteeringdorset.org.uk.

Jailed for harassment of BBC weather presenter

Timothy O’Brien from Christchurch has been jailed after he sent a BBC weather presenter sexually explicit messages, photos, and videos via Facebook messenger.

Alexis Green, spoke out on television about the “horrendous” harassment case she has had to deal with over the last few months.

She decided to go public about her experience to help others and the BBC interview can be seen here https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=HS3kz_rONy8.

At times throughout her ordeal she couldn’t sleep, it affected her health and she even thought about quitting her job.

Alexis Green said she wanted to give others in the same situation the confidence that going forward it is possible to “get a result and get a sentencing and get a restraining order.”

In the interview she said there are lots of people going through this kind of experience and that it’s not just women who are stalked or harassed. It’s men too.

She said social media companies had a lot to answer for and laws need to be put in place to prevent this from happening further to innocent people.

O’Brien, 55, of Athelstan Road pleaded guilty to harassment at Southampton Magistrates Court on 22 February.

The court heard how between 18 December 2022 and 24 January 2023, O’Brien sent the victim 115 messages, 13 photos, and 33 videos via Facebook messenger. The messages contained sexually explicit comments towards the victim, and in some of the videos he appeared to be naked.

On 15 March, O’Brien received 17 weeks imprisonment and was given an indefinite restraining order.

The National Stalking Helpline 0808 802 0300, run by the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, offers guidance to anybody in the UK affected by harassment or stalking.

A royal among birds

Words and image • Janine Pulford

Possibly the best-loved birds on our waterways, you can’t help but admire the gracefulness of mute swans as they swim serenely through the water.

They feed on aquatic vegetation, snails, small fish and worms, frequently upending to reach below the surface of the water. But they also dabble and graze on land. Their iconic snowwhite plumage that contrasts with an orange and black bill, and their long neck held in a graceful s-shape, make the birds instantly recognisable.

Pair for life

Pairing for life, the pen builds her nest from twigs and vegetation supplied by her partner, the cob. Five to 12 eggs are laid and incubated for five to six weeks. Fluffy grey cygnets hatch and stay on the nest for 24-48 hours before taking to the water. As they grow, they turn brown on top and white underneath. They stay with their parents for at least five months at which time they learn to fly. In some cases they stay with their parents to fly to a wintering area. They become predominantly white at a year old. Swans can pair bond from the age of two, but don’t generally breed until they are three years old.

The royal connection

The Crown holds the rights to claim ownership of all unmarked mute swans swimming in open waters across the countryside. These rights have existed since the 12th century when swans were considered an important food source for feasts and banquets. Although no longer caught for food, the Crown exercises rights to claim ownership of mute swans once a year.

This is carried out in a Swan Upping ceremony, mainly on certain stretches of the River Thames. The ownership of the swans is shared with the Vintners’ and Dyers’ livery companies, which were granted rights of ownership by the Crown in the 15th century.

Swan upping

Every year in the third week of July, the monarch’s swan marker, (this year for the first time since the end of the reign

of Queen Elizabeth II, it will be the King’s swan marker) and swan uppers of the Vintners and the Dyers travel upstream to Abingdon on a five-day journey in traditional Thames rowing skiffs. They wear smart scarlet uniforms.

During the swan upping, the swan marker keeps a sharp eye out for cygnets. When the cry “All up!” is made, the baby swans are surrounded by the rowing boats and lifted from the water, counted, weighed, measured, and assessed for injury or signs of disease. If they belong to the Vintners or the Dyers (this is determined by cygnets’ parentage) they are ringed. The King’s birds are not ringed. A report detailing the number of swans, broods and cygnets is produced. The swan marker’s duty is to ensure the swan population is maintained and give talks to schools and charities on the subject of swan welfare and the

annual swan upping census.

Swan upping has changed from a mostly ceremonial event to an important element of wildlife conservation.

Facts and myths

With a huge wingspan of around 238 centimetres and weighing in at around 12 kilograms mute swans can pose a threat if cornered or protecting their young or their territory. They have an intimidating hiss and will flap their wings. Territorial disputes can get nasty with swans sometimes fighting to the death. However the story that they can break a man’s arm is said to be a myth.

Mute swans partner for life and it is often said that if one dies, the other will pass away of a broken heart. Whilst this may be true in some instances, it is also known that after a period of grieving, swans will look for another partner.

The average lifespan of a

mute swan is 12 years, although in a protected environment they can live for over 30 years.

Population

There are 6,500 UK breeding pairs of mute swans and 50,500 wintering birds (rspb.org.uk 2023).

A protected species under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, swans, their nests and eggs are protected and it is illegal to harm, kill or disturb them in any way.

If eggs are abandoned it is against the law to take them and incubate them artificially. If you come across an injured bird call the RSPCA or another recognised animal rescue. There is a Swan Rescue Sanctuary at Wimborne. Telephone 01202 828166. Swans don’t have many predators. Their main threats come from pollution, fishing tackle, cruel acts of vandalism and overhead power lines.