Viewpoint June 2024

By Marilyn Barber | images © Viewpoint

VIEWPOINT

Dear Readers!

We’re now into the holiday season and if you’ve booked to go abroad it’s possible that your insurance company has sent you a list of things you need to do before you leave which is so long it almost makes you resolve to stay at home.

However, I hope that if you do decide to leave these shores –and you could win a trip to Guernsey in this edition - you won’t have the strange experience we had when we went to a wedding in Sicily.

The hotel looked good from the outside, but on arrival we were shown to a small room with no wardrobe, a necessity if you have wedding outfits. A chat with the manager was clearly lost in translation as when my husband said we needed a wardrobe, he asked why we wanted water wings!

The manager claimed they were fully booked, but we were eventually given a different room – with a wardrobe and no coat hangers. I now always take coat hangers on holiday with me.

There were just a couple of guests at breakfast the next day, but for the next fortnight we were the only people in the hotel. Or were we - as one afternoon we heard operatic singing from a room above?

If you have decided to stay at home this year, you won’t be short of great things to do as having enjoyed the Battle for Wimborne and the Bear Weekend at the Model Town over the recent Bank Holiday there are so many brilliant events planned for the coming weeks including the British Pedal Care Grand Prix in Ringwood on 7 July.

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

VIEWPOINT

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

Continued from front page

The weekend Wimborne went into battle

By Marilyn Barber | images © Viewpoint

Over the Spring Bank Holiday weekend more than 600 members of The English Civil War Society staged the Battle for Wimborne on the field at Julian’s Bridge. Crowds turned up to view the spectacular fight between Royalist Wimborne and Roundhead Poole.

In addition, on Willow Walk, people could discover what 17th century civilian and military life was like. The Society also depicted the riot on the Minster Green which had caused the Earl of Shaftesbury to send in troops.

Dorset Chamber calls for decisive leadership from Government

The announcement that the General Election is to take place on Thursday 4 July has been met with approval from Dorset Chamber.

Ian Girling, chief executive said: “An early general election is to be welcomed to bring much needed clarity to the future direction of the country and our economy.

“Whatever the colour of the next government, we need decisive leadership and meaningful policies and support which place business at the top of the agenda.

“A prompt growth plan must be embedded across the regions as soon as feasible after the election, including Dorset, to put our economy on a stable footing and primed for growth.

“In the meantime, I would urge our political parties and their candidates to place the economy at the heart of their campaigns for its critical importance in the future of our country, its people and businesses.

“A strong economy underlies everything from funding for the NHS, defence spending and jobs creation to community support and social coherence. Giving businesses in Dorset and nationwide the support they need is absolutely fundamental to achieving this goal.”

Make comments now

Alderholt Parish Council has submitted its neighbourhood plan for examination. It is available for public inspection. If you live, work or run a business in the Alderholt area you have until 25 June to make comments. View the plan online and submit comments at: https://consultation.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/spatial-planning/ alderholt-np/ It is also available at Verwood Library; Parish Office, Station Road, Alderholt; Alderholt Reading Room, Station Road and The Churchill Arms, Daggons Road.

Five Rivers give five reasons to consider fostering

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Upsydown – Cartoons of Dorset Life by Viewpoint’s favourite cartoonist Lyndon Wall. £15.99 in paperback. ISBN:9781398118256

HOT OFF THE PRESS:

Thank you, Alex Clarke

At the annual West Moors Town Council meeting on 16 May, members said goodbye to Alex Clarke who chose not to stand as a councillor this year to make time for his many other commitments.

Members presented him with a card and gift and thanked him for his time and work on the council over many years. Alex moved to West Moors in 1990 with his wife Gillian and young daughters. He joined the council in 1991 and served on various committees, becoming chairman of Council in 2008.

In 2009, he decided to take a step back so he could focus on his East Dorset District councillor role (EDDC) for which he was elected in 1994, although he still attended parish meetings to give the monthly report from EDDC.

L-R, Alex Clarke, Rita Burke, chairman of the council and Gillian Clarke

Charity of the Year

High Sheriff opens charity’s House Clearance Shop

The formal opening of LewisManning Hospice Care’s new retail House Clearance Shop in Highcliffe was a celebratory affair attended by locals and members of the Lewis-Manning staff team.

It was formally opened by the newly appointed High Sheriff of Dorset, Anthony Woodhouse.

There was a real buzz as shoppers took the opportunity to look around the shop which was packed with sustainable bargains.

The hospice’s ninth store has opened due to the ever-growing demand for its house clearance services, sustainable goods, as well as the increased need to raise funds for its vital charity services.

Director of Retail, Susan Newcombe, said: “We

are really pleased to have secured such a prominent location in this busy part of Highcliffe, with its reputation for being a second-hand searcher’s dream location.

“It’s a great opportunity to let shoppers know about our house clearance and recycling services and how we turn preloved items into extraordinary hospice care for people with life-limiting illnesses and their loved ones across Poole, Purbeck, East Dorset and West Hampshire.

“We’d like to thank the many businesses who have supported us in preparing for our opening.”

High Sheriff Anthony Woodhouse said he was delighted to open the ninth Lewis-Manning Hospice Care shop: “The shop will be so much more than a place to

find a bargain; it will act as a community hub for the people of Highcliffe, a place where people can find out more about the hospice services, volunteering, fundraising and a centre for recycling. The shop will be so important in raising much needed funds for this vital local charity.”

The house clearance service offers flexible, complete or partial house clearances and recycling services. And if you have any preloved items or goods, Lewis Manning can offset the value of them against

the clearance costs.

For your free no-obligation quote, call 01202 086051, visit lewis-manning.org. uk/house-clearance or email house.clearance@ lewis-manning.org.uk

The House Clearance Shop in Highcliffe is at 288 Lymington Road. LewisManning Hospice Care’s other shops are in Poole, Ashley Cross, Christchurch, Swanage, Westbourne, Winton, Wimborne and Ringwood. Volunteers are always welcome: lewis-manning.org. uk/volunteer-vacancies.

Pawsitively grrreat!

Bears of all sorts and sizes had a bear-ry good time at Wimborne Model Town on 25 and 26 May.

Giant bears, tiny bears, STARS Dorset trauma teddies: Courage, Serenity, Ziggy, Wiggles and Kit, and unbear-ably cute toys turned up at Bears Weekend.

Highlights were storytelling by Marilyn Barber and Marie Tudor, and the Teddy Bears

Picnics. Editor of Viewpoint, Janine Pulford, who arrived with the five trauma teddies for the picnics left with 17! “Model town friends and volunteers had been busy knitting,” she said. “It was a fab weekend.”

Children enjoyed activities including face painting, a raffle and tombola which raised £250 to be split between Wimborne Model Town and STARS Dorset, the sexual trauma charity.

Marilyn Barber’s mayoral bear attracts a fan

Teddy Bears picnic

Alex from Dorchester loved the picnic

The fire of chilli of cheeseAND FLAVOURS

Christchurch Cheese & Chilli Festival outdid itself once again.

“It gets better every year,” said one festivalgoer.

Visitors strolled around the stalls sampling tasty treats, watched wrestling, sat in the cooking theatre for a free demo with Chilli Olly, joined the kids to watch the Three Little Pigs, enjoyed live music and the chilli eating competition.

Organiser Simon Stewart who founded the festival and has grown it over the last 10 years said, “A massive thank you to everyone who attended. It was an incredible turnout. We are very grateful for the support you show the event and the weather held for us which was great.”

He is pictured with Mary Reader and STARS Dorset trauma teddy, Kit, who was having a day out with Viewpoint

Popular Taste Tent

Angel with Kit

Even the ice was hot!

Petition for better girls’ football New mayor elected

A petition has been started for better girls’ football at Emmanuel Middle School.

Through Verwood Town Football Club, the petition creator, Jason Bartlett, has contacted the local Dorset FA Equal Game Ambassador to help with expertise and advocacy.

Bartlett says: “As someone who is passionate about football and equality, I firmly believe that all students should have access to the same after school activities, regardless of their gender.”

If you wish to sign the petition you can find it on change.org.

A spokesperson for Emmanuel

Middle School said: “At Emmanuel Middle School we make every effort to support access to a wide range of sports for all our pupils. We also have a range of non-sporting extracurricular opportunities open to all our pupils.

“Our staff members work hard to make sure Emmanuel Middle School is an inclusive environment, where all pupils are treated equally and where no child feels excluded.

“We always welcome constructive feedback and views from parents and pupils and would encourage anyone with suggestions or ideas to approach the school directly.”

Pupils at Verwood Church of England First School and Nursery have been enjoying stories as part of National Share-a-Story Month with the theme, ‘A Feast of Stories’. With the better weather, the pupils have also enjoyed reading sessions outside in the school grounds.

The Mayor of Verwood is Cllr Rev Julian Macro, JP. He grew up in Wimbledon and studied at universities in Wales and Oxford, taking degrees in Classics and Theology. Following ordination, he served as a minister.

He and his wife, Dorothy, moved to Verwood in 2005.

The new mayor said: “We were delighted to find such a welcoming community and where we have both been active in the Verwood United Reformed Church where I was, in effect, locum minister for eight years during which time I initiated the Foodbank Distribution Centre (linked with the Trussell Trust).”

He was appointed as a JP at the age of 28 and served as a magistrate and in related roles with the probation and prison services. He has also been a non-executive director and chairman of a housing association.

“I continue to serve on a number of church and charity boards and look forward to doing what I can to promote Verwood and Three Legged Cross as communities where everyone can enjoy living,” he said.

The deputy mayor is Cllr Toni Coombs.

The Mayor of Verwood

The ShutterShack

support their community

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The ShutterShack are one of the South’s leading specialists in the supply and installation of interior shutters. Because they specialise in just shutters, they offer great expertise and advice about shutters for every type of window, door or space. As an independent company with 12 years in the industry they source premium shutters, using reputable suppliers who provide a 10-year manufacturing warranty. Being a small, Verwood business they take genuine pride in the finished product.

Most of The ShutterShack’s business comes from recommendations and reputation. They offer the best and most affordable prices on the market, without compromising on quality.

The ShutterShack are proudly invested in the local community, employing local Verwood residents, sponsoring Verwood Town Youth Football and supporting local schools with donations.

An opportunity to reflect

Louisa Hiscock, Verwood Rotary Club

Our current Rotary year comes to a close at the end of June and is an opportunity to reflect on what we have done over the last 12 months. President Andy Maw recently chaired our AGM and reminded us of some of the highlights. This ranged from running and supporting local events and organisations in Verwood to supporting international requests for aid. He said: “I am very proud we have been involved in so many diverse activities ….and the impact of these on so many, locally and much further afield.” Andy’s chosen charity was the John Thornton Young Achievers’ Foundation, and I am pleased to share that we are on target to raise £2,000 for this amazing local charity.

In May our club was delighted to sponsor the introductory breakfast meeting of the Verwood Business Network. This great new venture is an opportunity for local businesses of all sizes to come together to support one another, share new ideas and find out more about what will help them to grow. Future meetings will also include speakers on key issues. The Rotary Club’s Network Organiser is Mark Hardaker who can be contacted by text on 07387 391456 if interested.

We now start to look forward to a new Rotary year from July. We will soon welcome a new president and get ready to support them in their plans for the next year. This will no doubt include new activities, as well as old favourites like our Rustic Fayre on August Bank Holiday Monday. If you would like to find out more about what we do or are interested in joining the club, do contact us on enquiries@verwoodrotary.org.uk.

Picture of 2023 Rustic Fayre © Viewpoint

Team shirts sponsored by ShutterShack

Shower, walk-in bath, or wet room? AHM Installations can help you decide

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Choosing a new bathroom involves understanding your bathing needs and there are a variety of options to consider when deciding to alter your bathroom.

One option is to replace your bath with a low-level shower, this is suited to those with limited mobility. Slip-resistant shower trays are available in various sizes, and accessories like shower seats.

Grab rails provide further safety and they come in a variety of modern designs.

However, some people still prefer having a bath to a shower so this is when AHM Installations would recommend a walk-in bath. These are available in various sizes and come with moulded seats, and some even have jacuzzi functions to help ease aches and pains.

The third option is a wet room which eliminates obstacles with slip-resistant flooring and a central drain, making them ideal for wheelchair users and caregivers, however they can be more costly. It can be overwhelming knowing which solution to choose but at AHM Installations, you will deal with a friendly team of home surveyors who will visit you at home to discuss your bathing needs. FREE quotations and visuals of how your new bathroom could look will be provided. To find out more call 01425 687183.

Sheena at the Royal Armoured Corps Saddle Club, Bovington on Sally with Amy Hoyland and Sam Baker from Dorset House care home in Poole who organised the joyful experience.

Brave souls unite to raise funds

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care hosted a fire walk fundraiser at Ashley Cross Green in Poole on 17 May.

A total of 44 fire walkers walked barefoot over a bed of red-hot coals and raised over £13,000 for the charity.

Participants included members of the public, corporate company teams and Brian, a hospice patient, who is registered blind. He said: “I’ve never done a fire walk before, so I was curious as it’s something different. People often say to me, ‘you can’t do things like that because you’re blind’ but I like to do challenges. I was so happy to be able to do this for Lewis-Manning as they’ve helped me so much and brought so much enjoyment to my life. It’s brilliant to be able to give something back as a thank you for their invaluable support. I’ve raised over £300!”

Knife arches at Bournemouth Station

Two knife arches were used by Dorset Police and the British Transport Police at Bournemouth Station on Thursday 16 May.

The portable knife arches are part of a major campaign to educate young people on the dangers of knife crime across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.

The eight-week campaign was launched following the tragic knife-related death of 18-year-old Cameron Hamilton in Bournemouth

Town Centre last summer. Superintendent of Dorset Police Gavin House said: “There are two reasons for using the knife arches, one is for educational reasons and two is to catch people.”

He also said that the police are keen to take the knife arches into schools and talk to young people during the programme. Cameron’s grandmother Tracy Jose has been instrumental in the campaign, creating the slogan #ChangesAreMade in honour of her grandson, as well as Cameron’s mother Sarah Hamilton. Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset David Sidwick said: “We are so grateful for people like Tracy Jose and Sarah Hamilton for sharing their story. What happened to Cameron happened in a heartbeat so the idea of this is to keep people safe but also address the route of the cause and change the thinking.”

The Knife Crime Awareness campaign ends on Saturday 15 June 2024.

to loseafew

Looking pounds?

When the summer wardrobe comes out, it’s often time to take stock of more than just our clothes. How we look and feel is important too.

If you are carrying a little extra weight it might be tempting to throw yourself into a crash diet or a faddy fitness regime but when it comes to managing weight successfully, making small, manageable changes to your daily routine can make the biggest difference.

Did you know LiveWell Dorset can support you to make healthy changes? This free local health and wellbeing service offers a weight loss kickstart programme with 12 weeks free at a local slimming group or via an online support, plus 1-2-1 coaching. Find out if you are eligible – call 0800 840 1628 or register at livewelldorset.co.uk.

are some simple ways to help manage your

Drink more water: don’t mistake thirst for hunger. Water also boosts your metabolism and can help you feel fuller if you drink a glass before a meal.  Don’t skip breakfast: this will make you feel hungrier, leading to snacking or eating bigger meals later.   Get more active: exercise burns extra calories and helps keep weight off. The trick is finding an activity you enjoy and making it part of your daily routine.  Don’t ban treats: banning food you love will make you crave it more. You can have a small treat occasionally but

try to stick to Public Health England’s suggested 400 calories for breakfast and 600 each for lunch and dinner.  Plan your meals: plan your meals and snacks for the week so you know exactly what you are going to eat. Making a weekly shopping list means you’ll buy fewer unnecessary items.  Cut down on alcohol: did you know that a glass of wine has the same number of calories as a piece of chocolate? Try swapping alcoholic drinks for low-calorie soft drinks.  Discover more tips and free support at www.livewelldorset.co.uk

A trip to Guernsey with Condor Ferries

By Janine Pulford

The island of Guernsey has been British since 1213 despite a couple of attempts by the French to seize it and one attempt by the Germans, who occupied Guernsey from 1940-1945.

As a self-governed island, Guernsey flies its own flag and has its own States office.

We are very lucky living in Dorset because Condor Ferries can get us swiftly to the Channel Islands from Poole for a relaxing break.

You can visit Guernsey with your car, on foot or take your bicycle. There are at least 11 cycle tours around the island, which is only 12 miles long.

St Peter Port is a picturesque capital with marinas, numerous shops, bars and restaurants. Sailors, beachgoers and surfers

Surrounded by water, Guernsey attracts surfers and sailors. Victoria Marina in St Peter Port is welcoming, and pretty Beaucette Marina on the northeast tip of the island is a stunning place

to visit. There are many sandy bays around the island and Vazon Bay is popular with its golden sand. Cobo Bay is loved by surfers.

Dining out

You will be spoilt for places to eat out. For example, Fifty Seven on the Esplanade in St Peter Port offers Mediterranean flavours in a laid back, sleek environment. The Imperial Hotel and Restaurant can be relied upon for modern, locally sourced British food along with stunning sea views. If you crave Asian flavours; Thai, Indian and Chinese restaurants are not in short supply.

Continued on page 20

Continued from page 19

A trip to Guernsey with Condor Ferries

Places to visit

A tour around the historic Stately Home, Sausmarez Manor, offers a delightful day out. The grounds combine areas of peace and tranquillity and include an awardwinning subtropical paradise of greenery. Apartments can be rented in the Manor House which has been the Seat of the Seigneur de Sausmarez since 1204.

Pembroke L’Ancresse nature reserve offers lovely walks and bird life thrives

there. This could be because there are no foxes, badgers or squirrels on the island.

Saumarez Park is the largest public park on Guernsey and the site of the famous Battle of Flowers in August. This stunning location is just the place for a picnic. If the children want a bit more of a challenge, try Oaty and Joey’s Playbarn a bit further up the road with plenty to do for young or old.

The Little Chapel is one of the smallest chapels in the world and a much-loved landmark. It is decorated with seashells and pebbles and was created in 1914. Museums such as Castle Cornet, the German Occupation Museum and the Shipwreck Museum are absorbing and other tourist attractions include wonderful jewellery shops.

Are you keen to explore Guernsey?

Visit Condor Ferries website to find out how quickly you can get to Guernsey and explore this fascinating island. See the competition opposite for your chance to win a free ferry crossing with Condor Ferries with a few additional prizes from Guernsey businesses to make your visit memorable.

In conjunction with Condor Ferries and Guernsey businesses, Pulford Publicity is running a competition for a return sailing from Poole to Guernsey for a car and two passengers. The trip will be enhanced by Guernsey businesses with additional prizes listed on this page.

All you have to do to be in with a chance to win is read the Guernsey article and answer this question:

Which Guernsey bay is loved by surfers?

How to enter

Enter online at www.dorsetview.co.uk. Closing date is Friday 19 July 2024. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd, Condor Ferries and participating Guernsey businesses are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner. The winner will be announced in the magazine. Their name, email address and phone number will be passed to the relevant companies for the purposes of allocating the prize.

Terms and Conditions

1. The prize-winner can only book the ferry tickets between 4 September and 31 October 2024 at off peak times.

2. Prize is for a return ferry crossing for 2 adults and a car.

3. Any accommodation will have to be booked and paid for separately. Any extension of stay outside of 4 September and 31 October does not form part of the prize.

4. Usual Condor Ferries T&Cs apply. Visit www.condorferries.co.uk to find out more.

5. Photo ID is required to board the ferry. A passport is ideal.

6. Travel insurance is recommended.

7. No responsibility can be held by Pulford Publicity Ltd or Condor Ferries if the winner is unable to take up the prize.

8. The prize is not transferable.

9. The additional prizes are between the prize-givers and the winner. They are not connected with Condor Ferries prize but offered independently within the same dates 4 September to 31 October, each with separate terms and conditions.

Additional prizes:

Outdoor Guernsey – 2 free people kayaking or coasteering. outdoorguernsey.gg/ Fifty Seven Restaurant and Bar – £50 voucher to spend on food, lunch or dinner. Visit any day except Tuesday. Oaty and Joey’s Playbarn – voucher for up to three children.

Sausmarez Manor – free pass for one person to join the house tour and wild subtropical garden tour. Winner must go on a scheduled conducted tour between 10am and 5pm. Second ticket, if required, must be purchased.

The celebrity snake catcher

By Julian Hewitt | Fordingbridge Museum

I recently saw a beautiful slow worm that had come out of hibernation and was basking in the sun next to where I was gardening.

Although often mistaken for a snake, slow worms are in fact legless lizards. Readers may not realise that all six of the UK’s native reptiles can be found in the New Forest and are protected by law.

The Brockenhurst area was home to the famous snake catcher, Harry Mills, who was usually referred to by his nickname “Brusher” because he would earn some money by sweeping the cricket pitch at Balmer Lawn between innings. He lived in a charcoal burner’s hut near Brockenhurst and made his living as a snake catcher. Brusher had a long, forked beard, smoked a pipe, wore a wide-brimmed hat and gaiters to protect him from snake bites. He had a forked stick, which he called his staff of office, to drive the snakes out of the undergrowth and pin them down, and around his neck hung a pair of metal tongs for picking snakes up.

Brusher devised a variety of ways to make money as a

catcher. Some of his live snakes would be sent to London Zoo to feed birds of prey and other snakes. Some he sold locally to Lord Londesborough at Lyndhurst who used them to feed his falcons. He sold ointment from the fat of fried adders to be used as a cure for snake bites and claimed that this was also good for alleviating rheumatism. He would also boil snakes and sell the skeletons to tourists.

He was a regular at local fairs where he would display snakes, demonstrate his skills and sell his ointment and skeletons. Despite being born with a cleft palate, making his speech sometimes difficult to understand, he loved telling anecdotes and talking to people about his snake catching and lifestyle. He soon became a local celebrity. In 1897 there was an article about Brusher in Country Life Magazine and others in publications such as

Midsummer

the Sporting Journal and The Boy’s Own Paper. This made him a national celebrity.

Brusher was a sociable chap and loved to go for two pennies’ worth of rum and some bread, cheese and pickle in the Railway Inn in Brockenhurst. He had been healthy for most of his life but did have to go into the local workhouse to recuperate after catching flu. In 1905 his hut was burnt down. He was very upset by this and died shortly after moving into the outbuildings of the Railway Hotel.

His grave in St Nicholas’ Church is marked by a marble headstone carved with a depiction of him in his distinctive outfit. This was paid for by a public subscription.

The Railway Hotel is now called the Snake Catcher and displays Brusher memorabilia. It is definitely worth a visit. You might even have a glass of rum in Brusher’s memory, but not for a penny!

Music Festival at

St Mary’s

A fundraising festival with evening and daytime concerts will take place at St Mary’s Church, Fordingbridge from 22-30 June. Concerts will see performances from the Hyde Band, The Big Hymn Sing, Tom Dennis Jazz Trio, The Fordingbridge Choral Society, Salisbury Cathedral Chamber Choir and St Mary’s Church Choir and Friends. Programmes with full details of other performers can be purchased. For more information ring Christine Wilson on 07831 270280.

snake

Tongs for picking up snakes

Grass snake ©Louis Pulford

Seemed like a good idea at the time

When 84-year-old Robert Forrester-Addie from Ringwood booked his place to take part in a Diverse Abilities fundraising event after Christmas, he thought 28 April sounded like it would be a nice, warm spring day for a little jog.

He said: “However, hundreds of us gathered at Wimborne St Giles on a dim, drizzly grey morning. There were the ‘serious’ Garmin marathon trail runners followed by ‘semi-serious’ mortals doing shorter distances, mostly for a variety of charities. Then there were us: the important joggers doing the Colour Fest Fun Run for Diverse Abilities.”

Many were handed rainbow tutus to brighten the day and the day did brighten when the drizzle stopped. Robbie didn’t need a tutu though, he completed the two-mile jog in a bright red Florida shirt (bought at Pensacola in 1965) and red shorts.

He raised £243 before gift aid for Diverse Abilities, so his little jog paid big rewards.

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Its durable waterproofs are made from Nikwax® Analogy® - a revolutionary, membrane-free fabric that mimics the action of animal fur to protect you from rain and manage your sweat, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable on the hills and mountains in all weather conditions.

The brand was founded in 1992, when Nick Brown visited Colombia and was introduced to Sister Esther Castaño Mejia, a nun running a small sewing workshop called Creaciones Miquelina offering practical help to vulnerable women from the streets of

Dance, donate and make a difference

You are invited to this year’s Loungeaid event at Arboro Lounge at The Furlong shopping centre in Ringwood on Saturday 22 June.

This community-driven day promises fun and lively dance activities suitable for everyone, so join the fun and dive into the world of Latin dances with sessions led by local dance experts. You will be able to participate in dance animations and light up the courtyard with your moves.

All levels are welcome; grab this chance to learn, enjoy and

contribute to a great cause. Or just come and watch. 2pm: Don’t miss a spectacular surprise performance.

3pm: Beginners’ Salsa class (£5 per person, all proceeds go to the chosen local charity).

4pm onwards: Social Latin dancing (Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba and Rueda).

Hosted by Arboro Lounge as part of Loungeaid, this event supports the Ringwood Trussell Trust, aiding those in need.

Visit www.thefurlong.co.uk to learn more.

Bogotá. Sister Esther needed a visionary partner willing to help the charity grow and so Páramo was officially born. To date, it has provided training and employment for more than 10,000 women. Visit the new Páramo Brand Store in Ringwood this summer to discover their wide range of jackets, trousers, fleeces, shirts and baselayers. As well as enjoying 20% off your purchase, you will have the opportunity to sign up for a Páramo Points card, enabling you to receive loyalty points every time you shop instore.

It’s ready steady pedal in Ringwood as the British Pedal Car Grand Prix will be returning for its 37th exhilarating event on Sunday 7 July.

A test of speed, strategy and stamina Ringwood will see racers zooming through the heart of the town centre as the streets will be transformed into a challenging circuit. The course is designed to test each team’s engineering skills and pedalling prowess with tight turns and speedy straights that will keep the adrenaline pumping. This exciting competition is two hours long and was originally inspired by the pedal car races held in Ringwood’s twin town of Pont-Audemer in Normandy. Most teams build their own car with more competitive participants aiming to maximise speed while, for others, entertaining the crowd is the real win. Enter now

Whether you’re a returning racer or a newcomer eager to feel the rush of the race, entries are open now to join the fun. The Grand Prix is divided into two categories: Senior Teams for the experienced racers and Junior Teams for the young and aspiring champions. Teams are made up of between two and four pedallers, plus a mechanic and an optional “pusher”.

To learn how to build and repair your car and enter, visit: britishpedalcargrandprix.org/enter/

Spectate

If racing isn’t your speed, there’s plenty to enjoy including food stalls and interactive activities for all ages. Spectators can also make their way around the course to watch the race from different angles. As each team consists of up to four pedallers who are able to change over as many times as they like, the pit lane provides a particularly entertaining place to watch the race.

Sponsor the event

The event raises money for local charities through sponsorship and is organised by a team of volunteers including members of Ringwood & District Round Table. Usually, two or three charities are chosen with the aim of benefitting a cross-section of the Ringwood community.

For businesses interested in becoming a sponsor, visit https:// www.britishpedalcargrandprix.org/sponsors

Continued on page 26...

ringwood news

The plan of action

If you are planning on spectating the Pedal Car Grand Prix, here is the schedule for the day:

At 10am, all roads along the route will be closed and the pedal cars will assemble. Then at 1pm, the course opens for practise laps. At 2.30pm, the pedal cars will make their way to Star Lane which is the starting point for the race. From there, they will do a parade lap around the course. When 3pm comes so does the excitement because the race begins. As always, the race is two hours long so it should conclude at 5pm ready for the trophy and medal presentations at 5.15pm.

The race starts and ends in Market Place. Pedallers will follow a route along the High Street, Southampton Road, Meeting House Lane and The Furlong. See map for details on pit stops, pedestrian crossings, toilets and food and refreshment points.

The first 10 on the starting grid

Starting the race in pole position is Meccano Racing, a dedicated pedaller in previous Grand Prix, joined by second-time racers MAB Building Contractors.

Next up are the three Royce Racing cars made up of last year’s winners Royce, Squeals on Wheels and Pink Panther. They will be alongside fan-favourite BatMo, inspired by the classic Batmobile, and Hospital Dodgers in their newly renovated car.

Ringwood Fire Service’s very own Flaming Cheaters is in the line-up with their Doughty Engineering-built speedster as well as Pedal Car veterans the Men in Black.

The final spot in the top 10 is The Gym Tin back to see if they can better their runners-up position in last year’s race.

Squeals on Wheels (left)

BatMo

Pink Panther

The Gym Tin

Spectacular RNLI Lifeboat Festival

Did you go to the RNLI festival in Poole to celebrate the 200th anniversary of The Royal Lifeboat Institution? It took place on 18 and 19 May.

The quayside bustled as visitors enjoyed live music and the History of Maritime Search and Rescue Boat Show. They were able to watch capsize demos and go behind the scenes of lifeboat building and crew training at the RNLI’s central Support Centre and visit Poole Lifeboat Station.

Viewpoint was at sea to photograph the finale, a spectacular parade of sail that left Poole Quay Boat Haven on 19 May to tour the harbour. Historic RNLI lifeboats, the current RNLI fleet, and visiting lifeboats from other countries took part.

Images © CatchBox

Bruno Tonioli hits golden buzzer for Phoenix Boys

Two boys from Bournemouth were amongst a dance group which received the golden buzzer during Britain’s Got Talent.

Teddy Holton-Frances and Tyler Vandev are members of Phoenix Boys, which includes dancers from all over the UK.

Such was judge Bruno Tonioli’s excitement, he hit the golden buzzer so hard it smashed. He said the group reminded him of being a young male dancer.

Members of the group said it felt like everything was frozen in time and getting the gold was the most surreal experience and the happiest moment of their lives.

“Receiving the golden buzzer was a dream come true,” said Teddy.

Tyler added that getting the golden buzzer “was a really emotional time for us all.”

Paloma Faith’s ‘The Glorification of Sadness’ tour

Bournemouth International Centre 17 May Review by Jecs Davies

Paloma Faith blew Bournemouth away with her glamorous appearance at the BIC for her 23rd show since the start of April.

She was joined by backing singers NYM and Janelle Martin-Cousins who beautifully complemented the passion and power of Paloma’s voice. Fred Cox tore up the stage with fiery guitar riffs as well as Naomi Forbes on the drums. There was also Paloma’s long-term friend and talented bassist Andrea Goldsworthy setting the tone for the show in style and Peter Daley with a wonderful performance on the piano.

The concert was split into two halves with a 20-minute interval. During the first half, Paloma poured her heart into the ears of her audience with songs from her latest album ‘The Glorification of Sadness’. She shared her experience as a newly single mother through her emotionally charged lyrics but also her light-hearted remarks between tracks.

The second half of the concert was a trip down memory lane where a transformed Paloma played the biggest hits of her long-standing career. She had the whole venue standing, singing, dancing and admiring her energy. The show ended with Paloma singing her most popular song ‘Only Love Can Hurt Like This’ in the lights shone from the torches of her ‘faithful’ fans.

Teddy is front row third from left, Tyler is second row from back and fourth from right

The Garden Show in a magnificent setting

- Advertiser’s announcement -

The Garden Show is set to bloom again at Broadlands, Romsey.

There will be 160 stands showcasing the latest specialist plants, garden and home accessories, art design, sculpture, fashion, toys and a multitude of lovely goodies with tempting foods and wines in the Country Food marquee. Enjoy listening to the wandering jazz trio and watching Huxley birds of prey flying displays. Children can enjoy circus skills, Punch & Judy, tombola, toddler fairground rides and bouncy fun.

It really is a great day out for all the family and parking is free. Adults £10, Concessions £8, Child £4 (4 years and under free), Family £26 (2 adults and 4 children). Pre-book online for 15% discount. www.thegardenshowonline.com.

Show times: 26-28 July, 10am-5pm (last entry 4pm).

REVIEW: Still Alice

Wimborne Drama Productions, Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne By Marilyn

Barber

Powerful. Moving. Thought-provoking.

These are just three of the many adjectives which could be used to describe this production.

Based on the book by neuroscientist Lisa Genova, it portrays renowned linguistics professor Alice Howland who is diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

Julie Sissons was simply stunning as Alice, taking the audience on this very difficult journey with so much passion. The cruelty of this condition was more than brought home by Michelle Barter who portrayed ‘Herself’ giving an insight into what it is like to live with memory loss and confusion.

Andy Gill played husband John with a huge amount of empathy, with Scarlett Dixon as a colourful would-be actress daughter Lydia who at first finds it hard to understand her mother’s behaviour. Calum Hearne was the final member of the family, Thomas, Alice’s son, giving a sympathetic performance.

Kelly Webb and Chris Durham completed the cast playing two roles each as doctors and part of a couple.

Compliments must also go to the director Sali Pike and her creative team for such a technically creative set.

And the audience showed their appreciation for the company staging a play with such a challenging theme, with many giving them a standing ovation.

Dirty Dusting

Broadstone Players

Broadstone Memorial Hall Theatre

Review by Marilyn Barber

Three talented women were on stage in Broadstone from 21-25 May when the company staged this funny, if a little naughty, play written by two Newcastle journalists Ed Waugh and Trevor Wood.

Elderly cleaning ladies Gladys, Olive and Elsie, who are threatened with redundancy, chance on an unconventional way to earn some extra cash. One of them answers a wrong number in the office requiring a Sex Chat Line which gives them a great idea.

As Lesley James (Elsie), Sue Gibson (Gladys) and Sue Spencer (Olive) all put in such excellent performances, I am not going to single out any one actress, as their cohesion was so good and so well rehearsed.

As their back stories were revealed, humour was never far from the surface and it went on to reveal another side to their characters.

Add to this mix, Dave the company cleaning supervisor, a rather unpleasant character played by Chris Kemp who I am glad to say got his comeuppance. The audience will never feel the same about vacuum cleaners again!

Events

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

14-16 June

Upton House Food and Music Festival. Friday 5pm-11pm, Saturday 11am-11pm and Sunday 11am-8pm Tickets from www. uptonhousefoodandmusicfestival.com

15 June 10.30am-11.30am

Win on Waste Corfe Mullen at St Nicholas’ Church Hall. www. winonwaste.org or 07771 705662.

15 June 10am-12noon

Plant sale at Colehill Village Hall in aid of Forest Holme Hospice.

15 June 11am-5pm

Ferndown Fete on the Field. Free to enter family event with entertainment and stalls.

17 June 10.30am-11.30am

Reading Friends group meets at Ferndown Library.

17 June 9.30am

Ferndown Arts Society, The Barrington Centre, Demonstration of Mixed Media by Janet Wildey. Visitors £5 including tea and coffee.

19 June 6pm-7.30pm

Fordingbridge’s community shop, The Green Gram, volunteer recruitment event. To reserve your space book via ticketsource at: https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/the-greengram-community-refill-shop.

22 June 11am-2pm

Summer Fayre at St John’s Church, Macaulay Road, Broadstone, BH18 8AR. Hot food and drink, cakes and ice creams, craft stalls and games.

22 June 8.45pm-10.15pm

RSPB New Forest Local Group nightjar evening at Goatspen Plain (SU 228 015), meet Goatspen car park on Holmsley to Burley road, bring torch. Non-members £5, members free. Tel 01425 652864 https:// group.rspb.org.uk/newforest/

22 and 23 June

Shake and Stir Festival, Fishermans Walk, Southbourne.

22-30 June

Midsummer Music Festival at St Mary’s Church, Fordingbridge.

Daytime and evening concerts.

24 June 7.30pm-9.30pm

Fordingbridge Garden Club meets Avonway Community Centre SP61JF. Roger Hirons presents “New plants for free – a guide to propagation.”

25 June 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening Club meets at the MS Centre, West Parley with David Bassil’s “A Demonstration of Hanging Baskets”. For further details please contact Rod Darch 01202 896711. Email rod@rdconsulting.co.

28 June 8pm

Stand-up comedy evening at Alderholt Village Hall https://www. ticketsource.co.uk/avhevents.

29 June, 11am-2pm

Summer fete Burley Primary School, Burley, Ringwood, BH24 4AP.

29 June

A Song for St Cecilia, a celebration of 46 years of Wimborne Choral Society led by Christopher Dowie. Tickets from 07802 589662, from Square Records, Wimborne or on the door. Wimbornechoralsociety.org.uk

29 June 7pm

Fordingbridge Choral Society presents Showtime at St Mary’s Church SP6 1BB. Tickets from ticketsource.co.uk/ fordingbridgechoral or on the door.

30 June 11am-5pm

20 gardens open in Wimborne. Pay £7.50 at the first garden visited. Start at any garden and in any order. Details on www. wimborneinbloom.org.uk.

2 July 2.30pm-4pm

Bits & Bytes Computer Club in Ferndown library. See https://www. neilbarton.co.uk/bnbclub.html.

2 July 10am-3pm

Poole Leisure Painters meet at Lighthouse Poole. Contact secretary 01202 693526.

3 July 2.15pm

Lytchett and Upton Floral Club meeting at CJ’s, Lytchett Minster church car park BH16 6JE. Refreshments available and parking is free.

4 July 7.30pm

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

6 July 2pm-4pm

Ferndown Arthritis and Friendship Club meets at Ferndown Plus Day Centre. Entertainment and afternoon tea. Door to door service. Call for more info O3303 112793.

6 July 9.30am-11am

Wimborne War on Waste litter pick starting from Dreamboats at Riverside Park.

7 July 12noon-5pm

Free to attend Broadstone Family Fun Day on the recreation ground Broadstone including Rock on the Rec.

8 July 7pm-9pm

Bournemouth Ukulele Social Group meets at The Commodore BH6 3TD Fisherman’s Walk Southbourne. Free. Just drop in.

10 July 6.30pm-9pm

Bournemouth Big Band, Swing and Jazz Club meet in Kinson Community Centre. Full details on www.bournemouthjazzclub.org

12 July 6.30pm-8.30pm

RSPB New Forest Local Group guided Beginner’s Evening event at Keyhaven Marshes, meet at the harbour sea wall (SZ 306 915). Non-members £5, members free. Tel 01425 652864 https:// group.rspb.org.uk/newforest/

Seized cars donated to Bournemouth and Poole College

Dorset Police has donated 10 unclaimed cars to staff and students of Bournemouth and Poole College to help them with their automotive studies.

Unclaimed cars with a range of specifications were delivered to the college on 3 May. They included a VW Touran, Ford Fiesta, Hyundai Tuscan, Toyota Avensis, Audi A4, and a Chevrolet Tacuma.

Bournemouth and Poole College contacted Dorset Police earlier this year to explore the possibility of utilising recovered cars to enhance the learning experience of automotive students’.

Road Casualty Reduction Officers at Dorset Police identified 10 vehicles, seized for various reasons

and never re-claimed, to donate to the automotive department at Bournemouth and Poole College.

Inspector Joe Wheable of the Roads Policing Team said: “These vehicles have been seized for a number of reasons, such as no licence or no insurance.

“Working in partnership with Bournemouth and Poole College allows us to give the vehicles a new purpose and contributes to a better learning experience for automotive students.

“At Dorset Police, we’re dedicated to working with young drivers and providing essential road safety education. This initiative is a fantastic opportunity for the team to build and strengthen relationships with young drivers and we’re looking forward to continuing this valuable work.”

James Hills, director of Learning for Engineering at Bournemouth & Poole College, said: “It’s really good for the college to partner with Dorset Police as our students get both the variety of vehicles needed to train on and also crucial training links with the police to help keep them safe on the road in their own vehicles.

“This partnership will help build our student’s curriculum to give them the best opportunities for their futures.”

Dorset Police recover up to 4,000 vehicles each year and the introduction of this initiative will allow the force to re-direct cars from the scrap heap to the classroom.

The Road Casualty Reduction team will continue to collaborate with Bournemouth and Poole College and are currently in discussions to explore further opportunities.

Alfresco living inspiration

There are few things so gloriously invigorating as taking a shower under the open sky, feeling the sunshine and the cool breeze on your skin.

It used to be that alfresco showers were reserved for holidays in warmer climes, but in recent years, at home in England, the Brits have started to embrace outdoor living - expanding the comforts of the home into outside spaces.

Increasingly, homeowners seek to design these spaces with the same creativity and attention to detail as their indoor counterparts. Marlborough Tiles can help transform an outdoor space with high quality wall and floor tiles.

The rustic, open-air shower (pictured) is on the banks of the River Kennet, at the edge of Savernake Forest, where Marlborough Tiles was founded and where its factory has been located for more than 87 years.

Rigged with copper fittings, the open-air shower features the handmade inky blue-grey square wall tiles called Figgins Lane from Marlborough Tiles’ Savernake collection and is finished with silver-grey grout. The perfect spot for a post wild swim shower, followed by a picnic in the elements.  For more inspiration visit www.marlboroughtiles.com/

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

OLD

NEWS IN BRIEF

Ringwood awards: Ringwood Town Council presented two Community Awards at the recent Annual Town Assembly meeting. The late Steve Benson was recognised for his contribution to Ellingham and Ringwood Rugby Club, with the award accepted by his widow. Ringwood Carnival Committee also accepted an award, with members being given individual certificates. An award was also agreed for Chris Treleaven.

Old Time Music Hall variety show: based on the TV programme from the 1950s to the 1970s, Master of Ceremonies Michael Rustici will be using long words for introducing the acts at the Allendale Centre in Wimborne on Saturday 3 August at 2.30pm, raising funds for Wessex Cancer. The audience will also be invited to sing along. Tickets are available from the Allendale Centre.

In its eighth year Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme has helped more than 5,000 athletes to achieve their sporting potential by providing free access to Everyone Active’s 230-plus leisure facilities, including Blandford Leisure Centre. Sporting Champions also receive mentoring and guidance from a panel of Elite athletes including decorated Olympians and Paralympians. New to the panel for 2024 is GB sprint star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey (pictured). To find out more about the Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme, visit www. easportingchampions.com or follow @easportingchamps on Instagram.

CORRESPONDENCE

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

Emotions ran high before D-Day ceremony

This picture was taken of me with Rev’s jeep. Rev was going to Normandy for 6 June ceremony and appeared at my window with his 1942 jeep. Emotions ran high. Reg Dunningham Wimborne

A Soldier’s words to his mother

I am here with you

You are here with me..

I can feel your touch

But you cannot see..

I am with you night and day I hear the words you say Your hand in mine for evermore

My tears are yours

Your tears are mine..

The light that shines in your eyesIs mine

Only darkness shields the light of day

Hear my cries!

Mother, you’re so far away, please help me,

Please help me..

We’ll march together - you and I against a reddened bloodlit sky.. Flags unfurled - win the day

And I’ll come marching home...

But the young soldier didn’t return...

Let us salute all those who made the ultimate sacrifice by giving us tomorrow.

By Warren Brown MRAeS Ferndown

‘Just Being Sensible?’

There are few happy smiles on our faces When we think of the money we spend. There are no holidays in new places, And we now have to “make do and mend”! Entertainment need not cost us much; There are plenty of free public Parks. Shanks’s pony is okay for us; Getting fit from a walk gets top marks!

No problems with getting goods cheaper When looking for hardware, or shoes –A Charity shop’s a good keeper Of all types of things you can choose!

Since giving up all fish and meat

Our food bill has dropped quite a lot. The veggies taste good on my plate And save time in the old cooking pot!

So, don’t have a moan about paying When Community Food Banks are there.

Look around, as everyone’s saying There are so many people that care.

Rob Forrester-Addie (84) May 2024 Ringwood

Dorset Council

SEND report published

In March we had an inspection for local area arrangements for children and young people with special educational needs and/ or disabilities (SEND). The report from that inspection has now been published.

It stated that ‘the local area partnership’s special educational needs and/or disability (SEND) arrangements typically lead to positive experiences and outcomes for children and young people with SEND…Children and young people with SEND and their families are placed at the heart of all that leaders do.’

I am pleased with this outcome and I thank everyone who played a part in it for their hard work, including any of you who may have filled in the survey. The inspectors were pleased with how many surveys were completed by our families and we may not have had this outcome without your input.

However, I am clear that we must not be complacent. There is still work to be done and there are still children who are not having the lives we want them to have. So we will go forward with ambition for you, your children and young people and with humility in ourselves.

Theresa Leavy  Executive Director for Children’s Services www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk