Dorset View December 2024

ISSN 2397-723X (print) | ISSN 2397-7248 (online)

Broadstone | Christchurch | Colehill

Ferndown

Merley

West Parley

Wimborne | Ashley Heath | Bournemouth | Canford Heath Kinson | Poole

Ringwood

Ives

Legged Cross

Verwood

Moors

Reindeer © Louis Pulford

Dear Readers!

What are your Christmas traditions? As someone with two small children, I feel like my family are still establishing our traditions. After the pandemic years and several life changes, the past few Christmases have been subject to a lot of flux and are yet to fall into a routine. Perhaps that lack of routine is a good thing and gives us a chance to test out which traditions are right for our family.

The few traditions I am trying to establish are: 1) ‘The Muppets Christmas Carol’ – objectively the best Christmas film of all time – must be watched in December; 2) Santa only brings one or two ‘big’ presents, the rest are from mum and dad, and 3) we open one present early on Christmas Eve.

So far, tradition one is only being kept by me – my children are less interested in The Muppets than I’d hoped. Traditions two and three are working well; the Christmas Eve present is usually a board game, which is something we can all play together.

A tradition I’d like to establish is seeing a pantomime close to Christmas. Fortunately, we have a list of panto dates for your diary on page 32. And if you’re looking for gift ideas, see our book reviews and competition on pages 28–30 and our gift guide on pages 40–41.

However you celebrate the holidays, have a wonderful time this year.

Luke Graham

Editor

The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

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DORSET VIEW

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Merry Christmas from Dorset’s Sika deer © Pat Poole

Callouts escalate after Poole fire engine axed

Just days after one of Poole’s 24-hour crewed fire engines was removed, firefighters were called to 15 incidents – five times the number predicted.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) removed Poole’s second fire engine on Monday 21 October, as part of a series of cuts to local stations. Sturminster Newton, Wareham, Corsham, and Marlborough also lost engines.

Incident data shows that between 21–24 October, Poole firefighters were called to 15 incidents including: a house fire; water rescue; an attempted suicide; a road traffic collision; and a fire alarm in a high-rise tower.

Poole fire station provides fire cover across the south of the region and is the busiest in the county. Plans to cut the appliance were scheduled for 2025 and have been condemned by firefighters and local MP Neil Duncan-Jordan.

Val Hampshire, Fire Brigade Union Executive Council

member for the South West, said: “This week of chaos has made the impact of cuts all too clear. The public deserve a fire service that is equipped to keep them safe: Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service must reverse the cuts now.”

DWFRS said: “As with many public sector organisations, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service are facing significant financial challenges, and we have a programme of work in place to make sure we are sustainable for the future.”

Meanwhile, a government report was released indicating that crews in the South West are among the slowest to respond to incidents in the country.

The Home Office report found that the average response time to primary fires – defined as a ‘potentially more serious fire that causes harm to people or damage to property’ – for Dorset and Wiltshire in 2023–24 was 10 minutes and 35 seconds.

For comparison, the East

Midlands was the second slowest region with response times of 10 minutes and 21 seconds, followed by the East of England at 10 minutes and 12 seconds. Greater London was fastest at just 6 minutes and 47 seconds.

DWFRS challenged the findings and said: “We have a target of a 10-minute response time on average, for confirmed fires in sleeping risk premises. Our average response time in 2023–24 was

9 minutes 31 seconds. That is from the 999 call ringing in our Fire Control and includes call handling, turnout and travel time, until the first fire engine arrives on scene.

“As a predominantly rural service, travel times can be challenging, and our response can also be affected by the availability of our on-call firefighters, who make up the majority of our operational workforce.”

See Correspondence, page 45

Time to prepare your garden for next spring

By Plants Direct

As we near the end of autumn and move into winter, the garden needs to be cleared, tidied and pruned to help all the trees, shrubs, and plants to survive and thrive next spring.

Remove all fallen leaves, twigs and branches from lawns, patios and decks and take them away to the compost heap.

Mulch and spread compost onto beds, borders and pots to help insulate and prevent weeds through the winter months.

There is still time to plant spring flowering bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, crocus, and more. Plant in pots, borders or naturalise in grass and wild areas.

Baskets and tubs can be planted with pansies, violas, primroses and winter plants for winter colour and scents.

Tree and shrub planting of native species for hedging is best done now to allow all plants to root out for the

spring season. Hawthorn, beech, hazel, blackthorn, and many more can be planted for new hedges and encourage birds, bees and insects.

Fruit trees and vegetable gardens can now be pruned, composted and mulched.

Stake and tie plants and protect them from rabbit, deer and rodent damage.

Greenhouses, cold frames and poly tunnels can be washed, cleaned, and disinfected to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering. Protect young plants and seedlings from frost with fleece covering.

As we approach Christmas, it will be time to visit your local Nursery Garden Centre to select your Christmas tree, Christmas plants and arrangements.

Decorate your garden with twinkling lights to brighten the cold, dark winter nights as a new gardening year soon begins.

Poole is among several Dorset stations to lose one of its fire engines © DWFRS

Swanage steam train to enter the digital age

Swanage Railway is to become the UK’s first Wi-Fi connected steam train.

A project is being piloted to test if it can work on even the most rural and oldest railway networks.

Dorset Council has been awarded £163,000 government funding from DSIT (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology) as part of the national Rural Connectivity Accelerator programme.

The council has teamed up with tech company Excelerate Technology UK to bring satellite-powered public Wi-Fi to Purbeck Park car park, Norden train station and on board the railway’s popular steam service from early 2025.

Gavin Johns, chairman of the Swanage Railway Company, said: “As we look forward to 2025, with Rail 200 celebrating the bicentenary of railways in the UK and the 140th anniversary of trains to Swanage, this is a great opportunity to show that old and new can work together for the benefit of rural communities and our customers and staff.”

Historic house marks Remembrance Sunday

On Sunday 24 January 1943, a Halifax MK II, a four-engine aircraft from 58 Squadron RAF, crashed a few hundred yards from Kingston Lacy House. Visitors to the historic National Trust house and gardens paid their respects on Remembrance Sunday at the Memorial Stone which marks the crash site. Outside the house were vehicles from Dorset Historic Vehicles Trust. For more coverage of Remembrance Sunday, turn to page 14.

Photos by Dorset View

L-R: A porter, Swanage Railway’s Peter Milford, Dorset Council’s Verity Reardon, Cllr Richard Biggs, and Matthew Khan from Excelerate

3,500-year-old spade found near Poole

Archaeologists found the wooden tool dating back to the Bronze Age while excavating

The Moors at Arne

Archaeologists have discovered a near-complete wooden spade that was made during the Bronze Age, meaning it is one of the oldest and most complete wooden tools ever found in Britain.

Scientific dating shows the prehistoric spade is around 3,500 years old. It was uncovered while the team from Wessex Archaeology were excavating the site of a new habitat scheme, The Moors at Arne, on the edge of Poole Harbour.

According to the archaeologists, the spade would have been a precious tool and a great loss to its prehistoric owner. It provides physical evidence of the relationship humans have had with this challenging waterlogged landscape for thousands of years.

It is thanks to Dorset’s waterlogged grounds that

the spade was able to survive for over 3,000 years. It is extremely rare for organic material like wood to survive in the earth for so long.

The spade was made from a single piece of oak and would have taken hours for a prehistoric person to create.

Ed Treasure, from Wessex Archaeology, said: “The moment the spade started to be uncovered, the team on site knew it was a very special object and now we’re able to analyse it here in the laboratory, we’re starting to reveal its story.

“This is an incredibly exciting moment and we’re looking forward to finding out more as the process unfolds.”

Although fragile, the spade offers a rare glimpse into how prehistoric humans worked with Dorset’s landscape in the past. To learn more about this fascinating artefact, the

archaeology team have released a short film on YouTube covering the spade’s discovery, excavation, stabilisation and analysis. Watch it on www.youtube. com/watch?v=0EJGuziLn2g.

That happened quickly

By Paul Webb, Dorset Water Softeners

Christmas is nearly upon us. The question always asked is when do the Christmas celebrations begin? Usually the first Sunday of Advent, which this year falls on 1 December.

For those that remember Blue Peter, it means you can light the first candle on your Advent Crown. A lovely tradition. For many of us, Christmas is about these national, local and family traditions. From stirring the cake mixture in November, to collecting holly and greenery for decorations, visiting a Christmas market, the school Nativity play, family get-togethers and arguing about what to watch on TV, while the grandparents fall asleep.

These traditions constantly change throughout our lives, but we can make our own, maintain them and hopefully share and pass them on.

Christmas also means the difficulties of gift giving. I admit I am a rather useless present buyer. I start with great

plans: “This is the year I will be organised, with everything bought and wrapped at the beginning of the month.”

In reality, I become a typically useless stereotype. Working all hours and then squeezing in the shopping at the very last moment. No preparation and a nightmare as the town is packed with others like myself, running around like fear-fuelled zombies.

So, this holiday season I want to share some goodwill and help my fellow useless shoppers. Visit our website – dorsetwatersofteners.com/ christmasemergency – and download an IOU for your loved one for the best gift ever: a water softener or even a Quooker boiling tap. Print out the token, put it in an envelope and give it to your loved ones. What could go wrong? Say no to diamonds and yes to amazing soft water. See you on the other side. Season’s greetings to one and all.

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Archaeologists carefully lifted the fragile spade from the ground © Wessex Archaeology

The team have created a 3D model of the tool which can be viewed online © Wessex Archaeology

L-R: Louis Pulford, Fiona Harwood from Lewis-Manning, and Ben Pulford

Pulford Publicity raises over £1,500 for its charity of the year

The publisher of Dorset View and Viewpoint Magazine will make a big donation to its chosen charity of the year, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care.

Throughout 2024, Pulford Publicity has supported LewisManning by providing a monthly column space to promote the charity’s news and events.

As well as raising awareness of the charity, Dorset View’s Creative Director Louis Pulford completed a skydive in September in aid of Lewis-Manning.

Louis raised £832.51 including gift aid by diving 10,000ft from an aeroplane. In addition to this fundraising

effort, Pulford Publicity will donate a further £702.49 on 1 December to Lewis-Manning, raising the total to £1,535.

Pulford Publicity will make the donation via the Big Give, which doubles any donation made via the website.

Corporate Partnerships

Manager Fiona Harwood from Lewis-Manning Hospice Care said: “Your support means so much to us all. Thank you for all your help and support.”

To make a donation to Lewis-Manning Hospice Care via the Big Give, go to: https://donate. biggive.org/campaign/ a056900002TPTiYAAX.

Produce competition for Canford Heath club

Busy Bees Gardening Club, based in Canford Heath, held its annual Produce Competition recently. The prize winners were: Jam – Valentina Bladen; Curd – Angie Oswell; Chutney – Edwina Ballard; Shortbread – Paulette Martin; Cheese Scones – Paulette Martin; Sweet Scones – Angie Oswell; Victoria Sponge – Valentina Bladen; Lemon Drizzle Cake –Marion Martin; Vase of Garden Flowers – Angie Oswell, and Pot Plant – Valentina Bladen.

The Flower of the Month contest was won by a white gladiolus exhibited by Marion Martin, second was a yellow dahlia from Ada Trimmer, and third a pink dahlia from Tommy Whelan.

The next meeting on 12 December is the club’s AGM and fish and chips supper. The Busy Bees meet on the second Thursday of each month at Canford Heath Library, starting at 7pm. New

faces are welcome, and the first visit is free. For further information, please contact Angie on 07434 721811.

More trees for Wimborne

Local community group Trees for Wimborne, which is concerned that this year there isn’t an abundance of acorns or hazelnuts and very few sloes following a poor spring, has devised and implemented three planting schemes.

In each one, the group has tried to plant as diverse a range of native tree and shrub species as possible, whilst adhering to the principles of ‘right tree, right place’. This is to create a varied and interesting landscape which brings joy in all seasons, and to provide a range of food, plants and habitats to attract and provide for as many insects, birds and

mammals as possible.

Spokesperson Niki Harper said: “Trees for Wimborne hope that by planting a wide range of species it will contribute, in some small way, to a resilient landscape. If some of the species do not produce pollen, nectar, fruit or nuts one year, then others will; if some do not do well in the vagaries of wetter, warmer, windier or drier climates, then others will.

“The plants we have put in are still too young to be subject to the influence of weather events on pollination, but hopefully soon they will begin to prove their worth and contribute to next year’s autumn bounty.”

Angie Oswell presents a trophy to Marion Martin

A Redwing on holly. Photo by David Camp

Give the gift of dance

-Advertiser announcement-

What better gift this Christmas than the joy of dance and wellbeing? Whether it’s for you or a loved one, there are many dance classes to choose at Pavilion Dance from Afro Fusion to Ballet Beginner, Contemporary, Bollywood, Belly Dance, Latin, Ballroom, Tap, Tango and many more. A warm welcome awaits at their dance studios by the sea in Bournemouth. So why not treat yourself or someone else this Christmas with a gift voucher that is ‘Strictly’ just for fun? See the advert on page 5 for details. Full class timetable at www.pdsw.org.uk.

The Hamworthy Club hosted the 360th anniversary of the Poole & District Branch of The Royal Marines Association on 25 October. During the event, there was a performance by the Plymouth Maritime Corps of Drums, made up of veterans of HM Royal Marines Band Service, wearing replica uniforms and instruments from when the Corps was formed in 1664. Pictured centre is Tim Crossin, a former Royal Marine Commando who will take a cold water swim every day in January 2025 to raise money for charity. © John Meedes

law spot by Harold G Walker Solicitors

Proving service of your divorce application

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By Robert Price, Associate, Family Law Solicitor

When we issue your no-fault divorce application to the court for you, your spouse must acknowledge that they have received it. They must do this within a certain time period. If they do not, you cannot proceed with the application to the next stage. However, there are remedies available.

We are permitted to personally hand the application to them for you. Alternatively, we can get a private tracing company to find them for you, provided they can give us evidence they have served the document on your spouse.

It may be that we know they’ve received it. If you or someone else can prove that, then let us know. We may be able to write to the Court about this for you.

Let’s say we’ve exhausted these attempts without success. We then tell the Court of our efforts and ask them for permission to serve it in an alternative way. For example, serving it on someone they’re

living with, working with, or a close relative.

A search through the DWP or the passport service may assist here. Or if they work in the forces, we can ask the relevant authorities for an address.

The final method is to ask the Court to dispense with the requirement to serve the application. This is considered the absolute last resort. We would apply to the Court, then we would see the judge and explain the situation.

If you’re facing challenges concerning any family law issue, including serving your divorce petition, our family law experts at HGW Solicitors are here to help. We will guide you through each step, from initial advice to legally approved dispute resolution services, to court remedies as a last resort. Get started with a free, no-obligation 30-minute consultation to discuss your case and explore your options. Contact HGW Solicitors today to see how we can help you move forward confidently.

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

Dorset climate change conference a success

Hundreds of people attended Dorset’s second community-led ‘conference of the parties’ – Dorset COP – which was held in November at Bournemouth University. The University’s new vicechancellor, Professor Alison Honour, opened the event alongside Lois Betts, the University’s sustainability manager, recently elected local MP Jessica Toale, and the Dorset COP organisers.

Jessica Toale said: “There is no more profound a challenge or driver of global instability than climate change. While the annual climate COPs are really important international conferences, we cannot tackle climate change without local, community-level action.”

Mark Chivers, co-founder of Zero Carbon Dorset, said: “The enthusiasm and commitment shown by everyone at the event, to find ways to act at the local level, demonstrates how the power of community can also make real changes from the ground up. The power of community is so strong and it’s up to all of us to make sure we mobilise and protect the environment for ourselves and the next generation.”

Britain’s first astronaut inspires students

Helen Sharman, Britain’s first astronaut, visited St Edward’s School in Poole on 15 October to share her inspirational story with students

The chemist and president of the Institute of Science and Technology met students in her capacity as UK Outreach Ambassador for Imperial College, London.

Dr Sharman made history in 1991 when she launched into space for an eight-day mission orbiting the Earth, most of it spent on the Soviet Union’s Mir space station.

She was selected from 13,000 applicants, after responding to a radio advertisement asking for applicants to be the first British space explorer. She was also the first Western European woman and first privately funded woman in space, as well as the first woman to visit the Mir space station.

During her visit to St Edward’s, Dr Sharman gave presentations to students in Years 11, 12 and 13, talking about careers in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and further education opportunities, as well as sharing her experiences of becoming an astronaut.

St Edward’s School science teacher James Hall, who arranged the visit, said: “It was an honour to welcome Helen Sharman to St Edward’s

School. She is a pioneer, a role model, and a brilliant speaker.

“Helen made a huge impact on our students – they will remember her visit for many years to come.”

Among Dr Sharman’s key messages was the important role that STEM disciplines play in the modern world and the need for young people to have a core level of understanding, whether or not they pursue a career in this field.

She said: “I have had a super experience meeting the students. This is a really friendly school, and it has been lovely to see how focused the students are, and how interested they are in their futures. That future is so exciting when you think about the changes that are happening and how technology is opening up so many opportunities for young people.”

Dr Sharman

offered tips for any students wishing to follow in her footsteps: “Being fit and healthy, manually dexterous, being a team player and doing STEM subjects.

“All of that will do you good in all sorts of different areas of life.”

At the end of the day, she was interviewed by sixth form students Magnus Hinves and Grace Legg. Magnus said: “To be able to meet an

Helen’s experiences – how it felt to prepare for the trip and experience of being up there memorable.”

Helen Sharman with sixth form students Magnus Hinves and Grace Legg © St Edward’s School

Lest we forget…

Remembrance Sunday was held on 10 November to commemorate the lives and sacrifices of those who have served in the Armed Forces. Here are highlights from two local services

Poole remembers

Poole marked Remembrance Sunday with a service beside the War Memorial in Poole Park.

Wimborne remembers

The people of Wimborne certainly showed their commitment to Remembrance Sunday with large crowds lining the streets to watch the parade to the Minster church for the afternoon service which was attended by record numbers. After the service, wreaths were laid at the War Memorial on the Minster Green.

Mayor of Poole Cllr Pete Miles

Veteran wreath layer

The Rev Canon Lucy Holt led the service in Poole Park

Photos by Bruce Grant-Braham

Photos by Dorset View

Michael Dooley, the Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset

Vikki Slade MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole lays a wreath

Mayor of Wimborne Cllr Jeff Hart lays a wreath

Charity of the Year

What will you do with your Christmas tree?

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care is kicking off the new year with its annual Christmas Tree Collection & Recycling Campaign, taking place on 9–11 January 2025 across postcodes BH1 to BH23. By recycling your Christmas tree, you and local people in your community can make a truly meaningful impact, helping local hospice patients whilst promoting sustainability and supporting the environment.

If you are planning to have a real Christmas tree this year, register and donate online today at lewis-manning. org.uk/trees to join in this recycling campaign. A suggested donation of £15 will allow the hospice to deliver a virtual exercise and wellbeing session run by one of the hospice’s occupational therapists. This vital service helps the growing community of housebound patients achieve a more active, fulfilling life and remain connected to each other.

Vicki Gray, head of fundraising, said: “Our Christmas tree recycling initiative is so much more than raising funds for an important local hospice –it’s an opportunity for the community to support crucial wellbeing services

for Dorset hospice patients, whilst championing the environment.

“All trees collected are recycled into chippings and mulch for use in our local parks, gardens, playgrounds, and other community spaces across Dorset.”

Lewis-Manning Hospice Care extends special thanks to corporate partners

Stewarts Garden Centres, Katie Fox Estate Agents, United Taxis, and Eco Sustainable Solutions, whose sponsorship and support makes this initiative possible. How it works:

Register and donate: Sign up online to book your collection.

Confirmation: Once booked via LewisManning’s website, you will receive a confirmation email. After bookings close on 6 January, the team will let you know when your tree will be collected. Collection dates: All trees will be collected on 9–11 January. Leave your tree in your specified location and let Lewis-Manning do the rest.

Vicki added: “Let's kick off 2025 with purpose and compassion, turning your tree into hope and support for local families in need, and help make a lasting impact.”

For more information and to book, visit lewis-manning.org.uk/trees.

Charity of the Year 2025

As we approach the end of the year, it is time once again for Pulford Publicity to announce its charity of the year for 2025.

Next year, the Charity of the Year will be Dorset Cancer Care Foundation. The charity provides financial assistance to Dorset residents and their families who are experiencing financial hardship due to cancer.

It offers awards to help families cover the costs of transport, parking and overnight accommodation during treatment, respite support, domestic help, and more. Visit www.dccf.co.uk to find out more.

Dorset in top 10 most anxious areas of UK

The stress of Christmas and the colder, darker days can make the winter an anxietyinducing time of year for many. In fact, anxiety affects millions of people worldwide, and a new report claims that Dorset is the eighth most anxious area in the country.

The list of the UK’s top 10 most anxious regions was led by Devon, while Hampshire and the Isle of Wight came in at third place. The findings reflect the

UK’s challenges when it comes to mental health support.

The research was compiled by the medical clinic Releaf and based on analysis of regional data from the NHS of prescriptions for antidepressant and benzodiazepine – both common treatments for anxiety – as well as self-reported feelings of anxiety from the government’s Health Index.

Tim Kirby, CEO at Releaf, said: “These findings highlight the urgent need for better

mental health support through increased access to alternative medications, especially in areas like Kent and Devon where mental health condition levels are particularly high.”

If you are feeling anxious this December, Jemma Sandell from Dorset’s Relax & Remedy recommended trying a technique called ‘rectangular breathing,’ which combines focused breathing with visual tracking. She said: “Find a doorframe or window and start

by looking at the top left corner. As you slowly inhale, trace your eyes along the short edge to the right. Exhale as your eyes move down the longer side. Continue around the rectangle, inhaling along the shorter edges and exhaling along the longer ones.

“This practice not only helps slow your breathing but also shifts your focus, calming the nervous system and promoting relaxation. It’s a quick, grounding exercise you can do anytime to ease anxiety.”

Tree planting celebrates Dorset’s care leavers

A tree planting ceremony was held at County Hall in October to celebrate Dorset’s care leavers.

Cllr Stella Jones, chairperson of Dorset Council, led the ceremony which was attended by council members, employees, and young people who have been in care.

It marked 20 years of the National Leaving Care Benchmarking Forum.

A magnolia tree was chosen by Dorset’s care leavers as

their tree of choice. In some cultures, this tree symbolises luck and stability – it is one of the first trees to bloom in early spring, which some see as a symbol of new beginnings.

Cllr Jones said: “We are proud to be a part of this forum, who are working with care experienced young people to inspire the development of the best possible services and support.

“The tree symbolises our aspirations for our care experienced young people and our determination to help them to grow and thrive, in their own time, and at their own pace. We hope, like this tree, that they will reach new heights and that each

and every one of them blooms in their own and unique way.”

To find out more about Dorset Council’s local offer to care leavers, visit the council’s website.

Students at Poole-based Centre Stage School of Dance and Performing Arts raised £1,500 for the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation through Bring-a-Friend classes, DressUp Days, show tickets and programme sales.

Picture L-R: Laura from Centre Stage, Pete Thornton, chairman of JTYAF, and Zoe Mather, principal of Centre Stage.

Cllr Jones planting the tree

Artwork to enhance Bournemouth hospital building

The exterior of the Royal Bournemouth Hospital’s new BEACH Building is to be enhanced with an art display.

Orakel Workshop was selected following a public vote and detailed selection process by the local community and NHS staff. The studio is led by graphic artist and designer Jac Seifert, who is now tasked with bringing her vision to life outside the BEACH, a new six storey building housing emergency services, critical care, maternity and children’s units.

The Trust is investing £500m to enhance care and accessibility for the community. This includes state-of-the-art patient facilities, establishing Royal Bournemouth Hospital as a major emergency centre for faster, more effective specialist care, and developing Poole Hospital into the UK’s largest planned care centre

to reduce waiting times. Due to be installed in spring 2025, the BEACH Building artwork is a planning requirement of the new building and has been made possible by funding from both the Charity and Trust capital costs, ensuring that no money is taken away from frontline care.

If you’d like to get involved in future art projects, email Laura Joy at laura.joy@uhd.nhs.uk.

Theatre group urgently seeks financial help

A group which enables local people with learning disabilities and autism to take part in regular drama workshops is in urgent need of financial support.

Tam Gilbert, co-director of Millstream Theatre, which is based at the Museum of East Dorset in Wimborne, said: “Although we are starting the lengthy process of applying for grants from local organisations and charities, we will have to stop holding monthly sessions immediately unless some interim financial help is found. As well as two professional directors/facilitators, each session cost includes a support worker, who is responsible for supporting the wellbeing needs of our members.”

The Millstream Project has

been running for 10 years at the MED. Director Francesca Hollow said it is “such an important part of the museum.”

One neuro-diverse Millstream member said: “I’ve looked around and Millstream is the only group that’s perfect for me.”

Millstream members are so keen for the group to continue that they have agreed to pay subscriptions for the first time, but this is a challenge as most of the members, for medical reasons, are not in full-time employment.

Anyone who would like to support Millstream Theatre should contact Tony Horitz at tony.horitz@icloud. com or Tam Gilbert at tam@ persuasionarts.co.uk.

Jac Seifert’s studio will produce the artwork. Photo by Orakel Workshop

Members of Millstream Theatre

PULFORD PUBLICITY sponsors

WIMBORNE COMMUNITY GARDEN

Santa Claus is coming to Wimborne town

By Jane Benson

Christmas is coming, and at Wimborne Community Garden we’ve discovered that Santa has a problem. It seems that he’s forgotten all sorts of things that are essential to him this Christmas such as his hat, his belt, a bridle for Rudolph and many more items.

The good news is 12 wonderful shops in Wimborne have found an item each and they are now on display in their shop window. If you would like to help Santa, please go and get a £1 entry form from either Wimborne or Colehill Library, the Museum of East Dorset or Optique 2000 and then go on a search round the town to identify which shop has which item for poor old forgetful Santa. Once

you’ve filled in your form, return it to the libraries, Museum or Optique 2000 and two winning entries will be visited by Santa himself on 21 December as he delivers their well-earned prize.

Fortunately, it seems Santa has some spare clothes, as in the meantime he is coming to a magical grotto in Wimborne Community Garden on 6, 13, 18 and 20 December. He will be sitting next to a cosy fire in his grotto, which children can get to by wandering through a Christmas-lit tunnel through the garden.

Santa has a little story he wants to share with the children before giving them each a gift to take home; meanwhile, parents, grandparents and

friends can enjoy mulled wine and mince pies round the fire pit.

To book your child’s £10 ticket for this Christmas experience, please phone 07851 402207 any evening – there is no charge for accompanying adults. All proceeds will go to help Wimborne Community Garden.

On each day, Santa is going to share his story at 3.45pm, 4.30pm and 5.15pm. We hope you can join us – and really enjoy soaking up the Christmas spirit under the stars.

Wrapping up warm is going to be important, especially on 18 December when we will be sharing Christmas carols in the garden at 6pm. As last year, we will be wonderfully accompanied by the small steel drum band

The Purple Parrots as we all enjoy a festive community sing song together. No wonder we all love Christmas!

Jane and Santa in 2023

Traditional festivities at Museum of East Dorset

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Fed up of Christmas over-consumerism? Wimborne’s award-winning museum has a great line-up of festive events, aimed at putting the traditional heart back into Christmas.

A festive Christmas shopping night on Thursday 28 November invites you to browse the beautiful gift shop full of great gift ideas. Support local this Christmas!

There’s also the famous Great Pudding Stir, celebrating 25 years at the museum. Pop in on Saturday 14 December and stir the puddings. Don’t forget to make a wish.

Kids can enjoy meeting Santa in the magical setting of the museum. Visits take place on Saturday 30 November and Saturday 7 December. Children get a ‘Golden Ticket’ to see Santa and a gift to take home. There’s also a chance to explore the museum for free and follow the festive trail as well as hands-on Christmas crafts to make.

And for the first time, the museum is hosting SEN Santa experiences on Thursday 5 December between 5pm and 6pm. Designed for children with special educational needs, the Santa

visit promises no queues and is kept short and sweet with five-minute time slots to meet Santa in the peace and quiet of the Garden Room Grotto.

And for a break from the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations, grab a ticket to come and see the brilliant duo of actor and folk singer Alastair Braidwood and singer and folk musician Tim Laycock on Thursday 12 December. Enjoy an evening full of festive cheer, including humorous stories, traditional songs and carols, poems recited, and folk tunes to tap your foot to. All information at www. museumofeastdorset.co.uk.

Christmas parade to light up Wimborne

Colourful floats, festive decorations, and Santa Claus will bring holiday magic to Wimborne with the Save the Children Christmas parade on Saturday 14 December.

It will start at 2pm from Eaton’s (formerly Cobham’s) car park in Brook Road and will proceed into the town via Leigh Road and Rodways Corner.

The parade will then enter the town via Park Lane, East Street, King Street and West Street and into the Square at around 3pm. It will proceed along the High Street and back on to King Street where the floats will disembark.

As usual, Father Christmas will stop at the Museum of East Dorset where he will remain with his sack of presents. Children will be welcome to visit him there and receive a (free) small gift.

In the morning, from 10am, a fun fair will be held in the Square. As well as a carousel and boat swings, there will be face-painting, live music and other attractions.

The Save the Children Christmas parade, which was started by former mayor Margery Ryan in December 1989 with just four floats, now attracts numerous entries from community groups who just love the wonderful atmosphere as the town comes alive with true Christmas spirit.

Here comes Santa Claus © Jayne Jackson

Save the Children parade in 2021 © CatchBox

Wimborne Christmas lights

Don’t forget to attend Wimborne’s Christmas Lights Switch-On event on 30 November, starting at 1pm with the lights set to illuminate at 4.30pm.

A stage will be set up in the Square, showcasing six performing acts, including four choirs, a band, and a children’s dance group. Following this, the Minster Choir will sing carols, leading up to the Militia’s musket salute on the Minster Green at approximately 5.10pm.

Mayor of Wimborne, Cllr Jeff Hart, said: “This event is designed to unite people of all ages and backgrounds, reinforcing Wimborne Minster’s community spirit. It promises to be an inclusive and enjoyable gathering space for children, seniors, and families alike.”

Wimborne business celebrates second anniversary

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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 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. Open seven days a week after being founded by award-winning artist Noah Mckeown in 2022.

Noah said: “Two years have just flown by; it’s been incredible. What started as a simple derelict barn has flourished and grown into a truly magical shop, beloved by its many customers and artisans.

“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.”

Join Absolute Artisans for their Christmas shopping weekend on 7–8 December for a free mulled wine and mince pie as you shop the deals. See adjoining advert for details.

Wimborne’s annual Carols in the Cornmarket, where attendees can sing their favourite Christmas carols alongside choristers from the Wimborne Minster Church and the Broadstone Community Concert Band, takes place at 6pm on Friday 20 December. This free event is a fundraiser for the Minster Church. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash to donate. Last year £903 was raised. Photo by John Hughes.

The real-life roots of festive folklore

Do partridges really nest in pear trees? Sadly not

In the run-up to Christmas, the RSPB has revealed the truth behind why certain birds and plants are associated with this most festive time of year.

For instance, the use of holly as a decoration dates back to the Roman times – long before pine trees were introduced as a festive centrepiece. The prickly leaves of holly branches were thought to symbolise the crown of thorns that Jesus wore.

Ivy, along with holly, was part of a Pagan Winter Solstice tradition: both plants were believed to ward off evil spirits and celebrate new growth. According to the RSPB, these plants also serve an important purpose as a source of vital winter food for birds and nectar for insects.

What about the partridge in a pear tree? This famous line from ‘The 12 Days of Christmas’ is sadly misleading – partridges are ground nesting birds and so the chances of finding them roosting in a pear tree are

very slim. And unfortunately, grey partridges are on the UK’s red list for conservation concern and at risk of going extinct, so you’re unlikely to receive one from your true love on any day of Christmas.

And then there’s the robin. While they can be spotted all year round, they are commonly depicted on Christmas cards, decorations and wrapping paper. What’s the connection?

The RSPB says that Britain’s national bird has been associated with Christmas since the 1900s. The relationship between robins and the festive season is inspired by the bright red uniforms of Victorian postmen. As Christmas cards arrived through the post, the link was made between the familiar little bird and the spreading of Yuletide cheer. This has led to the red-breasted bird featuring on Christmas cards ever since.

In real life, however, robins often struggle during the winter

months when natural food sources run low. And based on 45 years of the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch survey data, the average number of robins spotted per garden has declined by 25 per cent since the survey began in 1979. The charity is urging the public to make their outdoor spaces as wildlife friendly and biodiverse as possible this winter by putting up nestboxes, planting a deciduous tree, or even installing a mini pond.

You can help the conservation work of the RSPB by visiting their website, www. rspb.org.uk, and by taking part in the Big Garden Birdwatch survey, which runs from 24–26 January 2025. Last year, over a million people spared an hour to count the number of birds in their garden as part of the UK’s biggest citizen science survey. The RSPB website also offers top tips on how to attract robins and other wildlife to your garden.

Protect your pet through the fireworks season

New Year’s Eve fireworks might be a delight for humans, but for our furry friends it can be an anxiety-inducing time of year. In fact, 29 per cent of pet owners say that events involving fireworks are a very stressful time of year, according to Pets at Home. If your pet suffers from noise phobia and anxiety caused by the unpredictable bangs and bright flashes

of fireworks, here is some advice from Dan Makin at Vets for Pets Poole Holes Bay.

First, try distracting your pets to ease their anxiety. Muffle the sound of fireworks by turning on the TV or playing rhythmic music and hide the flashing lights as best you can by keeping windows, blinds and curtains closed.

As well as distractions, air diffusers and weighted

jackets can help calm pet anxiety. Create a safe space in your home with familiar toys and lots of bedding for pets to hide in. Introduce these elements in the weeks prior to New Year’s Eve so that they become familiar. Makin also advised keeping cats inside with access to a litter tray.

On the night, remain calm; animals can sense changes in your demeanour, which could make them more anxious.

Once the fireworks are over, keep a watch on your pet for the next few days. Check how much they are eating and drinking and speak to a vet if you notice signs of fear or stress. For cats, monitor how much they’re using their litter tray or going outside. If they are urinating less, going to their litter tray more frequently or not urinating at all, then take them to your vet as soon as possible.

Rockin’ robin © Ben Andrew/RSPB

The benefits of private education

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With the government’s impending application of 20 per cent VAT on school fees, affordable private school places are in demand

As more families make the decision to invest in education at the primary phase to help their children secure free grammar school places later on, fee-paying prep schools that represent value for money are in high demand. And independent school fees might be more affordable than you think.

The difference between fees over your child’s time in a private prep school can vary, with some smaller schools charging up to 20 per cent less than their local competitors.

In return, you can expect the benefits of specialist teachers, small class sizes and excellent academic outcomes, including comprehensive preparation for 11+ grammar school entrance examinations.

Studies also show a significant dominance of privately educated pupils among

key professions, revealing that privately educated pupils lead the way in senior management and director positions. The chances of success as a professional are greater for those who attend independent schools, with 61 per cent of doctors attending independent schools against the national average of seven per cent of pupils educated privately.

Further research reveals a startling statistic of 74 per cent of leading judges in the High Court or Court of Appeal having attended independent schools, and professions such as journalism, politics and finance being dominated by the privately educated.

Happy learners are successful learners, and so independent prep schools place a high value on developing pupils’ confidence and

independence as learners. From the beginning, children are encouraged to be inquisitive and exploratory; learning through practical application and in small groups that promote purposeful interaction with their teachers.

The bespoke learning opportunities and enrichment opportunities they are able to provide can lead to higher levels of personal and academic success and promote success in 11+ examinations to local grammar schools.

Talbot House School is a successful, non-selective, Independent Schools Association accredited school in the heart of Bournemouth, for boys and girls aged three to 11. Private tours can be arranged through the school office on 01202 510348 or by emailing Justine Butler at admin@ talbothouseschool.co.uk.

Off the book shelf

Reviews by Janine Pulford

If you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas or winter reading recommendations, why not try one of these books?

The West In Her Eyes (August 2024)

By Janet Hancock Fiction. Kindle/Paperback/ www.resolutebooks.co.uk

Set between 1918 and 1927, the story centres around a gifted Russian pianist, Esther, who wishes to travel to St Petersburg, 2,000 miles from her home in Baku, and take up her place at the Conservatoire. Unfortunately, her oil-rich family has to flee Bolshevik-controlled Baku when Turks infiltrate the oilfields, and the family is forced to take temporary respite in Persia. When she befriends local girl Anahid and persuades her to leave a harem for a life in France, their lives take an unexpected turn.

This book immerses the reader back in time, bringing

to life the sounds, smells, colours and difficulties faced by refugees who travel with hope that life, one day, will be better. With maps to help with

locations and a note on Russian names, there is much to learn by reading this well-researched literary novel, which is also a love story that harbours a twist.

Janet Hancock is a Dorset author who writes historical fiction and poetry.

Recipe for Mr Perfect

By Anni Rose Fiction. Choc Lit (Sept 2021)

This wasn’t a straightforward romance by any means. With three work colleagues looking for Mr Perfect, it is interesting to follow Jess, Sarah and Maggie individually as they deal with their own problems as well as help each other. They work at a company that is in the process of being acquired by an anonymous buyer and unbeknown to

them is someone familiar, so the threads continually interweave, which means the reader has to concentrate.

I found the business nitty gritty interesting, and it fleshed out the story. What I liked most about this book, apart from Neil and his lovely dog Dudley, were the chapter endings. They made it difficult to put the book down. The story came across as well-researched and interesting, rather than just a straightforward romance. With more books in this series, you will have plenty of romantic ‘recipes’ to choose from.

With You on My Mind

By Brian Hallett Factual. BH Books

(2018)

A compelling and emotional read, the book concerns the decline of this Swanage author’s wife and eventual death in 2015 due to Lewy body dementia. At the time, Hallett was unable to find any helpful books to help him understand his wife’s condition, so he wrote a book in diary form to help others.

He and his wife Jeanne celebrated their Golden Wedding in 2008. By 2013, Brian noticed she was getting increasingly forgetful. He put it down to growing old, but as time progressed, he wondered if it was dementia. With foresight, he kept notes and diary entries of Jeanne’s condition. After researching Alzheimer’s, he realised her symptoms were different and that she suffered with paranoid delusions. Eventually she was diagnosed with Lewy body dementia.

This book will be of great support to anyone going

through a similar experience. Even if you are not affected by this subject, the human story could easily become one you recognise further along life’s path. ‘With You on My Mind’ can also be a huge benefit to those who have been through a similar journey and were left blaming themselves for circumstances beyond their control.

Continued on page 30

Casting Off (March 2024)

By Carol Waterkeyn Fiction. Kindle/paperback from Amazon

After being made redundant, Paula’s venture into buying a wool shop is the turning point in her ordinary life. Throw in a light romance, an ex-husband and a mystery, and the story will carry you along. It will appeal to those who are fed up with modern society and want to wind down at a gentle pace. ‘Casting Off’ is a light read that’s not bogged down with history or flowery descriptions, yet it ties up all the loose ends nicely.

Carol Waterkeyn is a Dorset author and has also written several children’s books.

Don’t Look Back

By Becca Perl Fiction. The

Book Guild (October 2024)

Review by Luke Graham

What would you risk for the chance of a better life? That’s a question posed by Christchurch-based writer and illustrator Becca Perl in her new children’s book ‘Don’t Look Back’.

The book is based on the real-life story of her family’s escape from Communist Czechoslovakia in 1949. In the tale, a grandfather is asked to tell a once-upon-a-time story to his grandchildren, and he tells them about a little boy who one day left home with his parents, walked for miles through a dense, dark forest, and had to cross a dangerous river to get to safety, before revealing to the grandchildren that the story is about himself. Perl deliberately leaves the time and place of the book vague, not only so the story is simpler and more accessible for children, but because it’s a story of the desperation

felt by millions of refugees around the world. Because of this, Perl is donating 50p to The Refugee Council for every copy of the book sold.

‘Don’t Look Back’ is wonderfully illustrated, with endearing character designs and moody landscapes and backgrounds. I enjoyed reading the story to my own children, and how it prompted questions about why a family might feel forced to leave their home; the book will be a useful tool to help introduce and explain a complex topic to younger readers. Perl also includes a few pages of more detailed history at the back of the book for those who wish to know more. This book would make a lovely Christmas present, especially for children with an interest in history.

WIN a free children’s book Dorset View has partnered with publishers The Book Guild to give away a free copy of ‘Don’t Look Back’ by Becca Perl. To enter the competition, answer the following question: Where in Dorset is Becca Perl based? Enter online at www. dorsetview.co.uk. Closing date is Friday 10 January 2025. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd 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. The winner’s name, address and phone number will be passed to The Book Guild for the purpose of delivering the prize.

Christmas Trifle Perfect

Looking for a hearty, festive dessert? This trifle recipe from Del Monte is sure to delight the family

Serves: 10

Prep time: 45 minutes – and at least eight hours to set

Ingredients

• 160g pack of trifle sponges (or use sponge fingers)

• 100g raspberry jam

• 150ml pale cream sherry

• 2 cans (420g) Del Monte Fruit Cocktail in Juice

• 1 pack (135g) raspberry or strawberry flavour jelly cubes

• 500ml ready-made custard

• 400ml double cream

• Dark chocolate, to finish

Method

Slice each trifle sponge in half horizontally, spread with jam and sandwich back together. Line the base of a 2.5 litre-capacity glass trifle dish with the jammy sponges – cut the sponges into smaller pieces first to make this easier. Crumble up the last sponge and use the crumbs to plug any gaps. Trickle the sherry all over the sponge layer. Give it 10 minutes to soak in, then use your hands or a spoon to press the sponges down a little. Tip the fruit cocktail into a sieve over a large measuring jug, to catch the juice (which

you’ll need next). Arrange the drained fruit over the sherrysoaked sponge in an even layer. Time to make the jelly. Follow the instructions on the pack, which should go like this: pour 285ml just-boiled water into a jug. Add the jelly cubes and stir until they have completely dissolved. You now need to add 285ml cold liquid – the juice from the fruit cocktail should be the right amount. If it’s more than that, pour a little off, and if it’s less, add some cold water to get the right quantity. Combine with the hot jelly liquid and stir.

Pour the jelly slowly and carefully all over the fruit cocktail. Put the bowl in the fridge for at least eight hours so the jelly can set. Pour the custard onto the jelly so that it settles in an even layer. Pour the cream into a mixing bowl and whip it until it holds soft peaks. Spoon it over the custard – you can use a palette knife to create a nice swirly finish. Use a potato peeler or a knife to create chocolate shavings and scatter these over the whipped cream. Your trifle is ready to serve. Merry Christmas!

Panto season

It’s pantomime time and we don’t want readers to miss the chance for a great family outing, so here are a selection of local productions in date order

Bournemouth Pavilion –‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ from Saturday 7 December to Sunday 5 January. Book via tickets. bournemouthpavilion.co.uk.

Allendale Centre, Wimborne – Grass Roots Theatre presents ‘Last Panto in Little Grimley’ on Sunday 8 December at 1pm and 5pm. Tickets from theallendale.org/tickets.

Poole Lighthouse –

‘Sleeping Beauty’ from Thursday 12 December to Sunday 5 January. Tickets from lighthousepoole.co.uk or call 01202 280000.

Allendale Centre – ‘The Best Ever Christmas Show’ from Friday 13 to Tuesday 24 December. Book from theallendale.org/tickets.

Tivoli Theatre, Wimborne –Made to Measure Productions

present ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs’ from Saturday 14 December to Sunday 5 January. Tickets from the box office on 01202 885566 or from tivoliwimborne.co.uk.

The Regent, Christchurch – The Glad Rag Production Company presents ‘Christmas Spectacular’ from Saturday 14 to Tuesday 24 December. Tickets from theregent. co.uk, or call the box office on 01202 499199.

The Barrington Theatre, Ferndown – VoulezVous Productions present ‘Cinderella’ from Monday 16 to Tuesday 24 December. Book via voulez-vous. co.uk/tickets or call the box office on 01202 894 858.

Broadstone Memorial Hall – Broadstone Productions present ‘Cinderella’ on

5, 10, 11, 12, 17 and 18 January 2025. Tickets from ticketsource.co.uk/booking/ select/RdiEJKhzXNnT.

The Barrington Theatre –Bourne Free Panto presents the adult panto (no under 16s allowed) ‘A-lad-in’ from Friday 10 to Saturday 18 January. Call Ticketline on 0161 832 111 or box office on 01202 894 858.

Bournemouth Life Centre – All Saints Dramatic Society present ‘Knight Fever’ in Moordown from Thursday 16 to Saturday 18 January. Tickets from ticketsource. co.uk/asds/e-vkeklk.

Verwood Hub – Verwood Pantomime Society present ‘Peter Pan’ on 18–25 January. Tickets from verwoodpantomimesociety. com/book-tickets or call 01202 828740.

The Regent – Highcliffe Charity Players present ‘Goldilocks’ from Friday

24 to Sunday 26 January. Tickets from theregent. co.uk, or call 01202 499199. Anne Biddlecombe Hall, Blandford Forum – The Tarrant Valley Players present ‘The Wind in the Willows –a Valley Adventure’ from Thursday 30 January to Saturday 1 February. Book via ticketsource.co.uk/ thetarrantvalleyplayers. Colehill Village Hall – Colehill Music and Drama Society (Co.Mad) present ‘Tales from the Woods’ from Friday 14 to Sunday 16 February. Ticket information TBC.

Made to Measure perform at the Tivoli

TV star Todd Carty is in the Lighthouse panto

REVIEW Gaslight Bournemouth Little Theatre Club, Bournemouth Little Theatre

By Luke Graham

This was a thrilling retelling of a British classic.

1938’s ‘Gaslight’ by Patrick Hamilton, about a husband abusing and controlling his wife, remains as relevant as ever. In fact, the term ‘gaslighting’ – referring to the act of manipulating someone to question their own sanity – comes from this play.

The cast all put in strong performances. Nick Robinson as Jack Manningham played an excellent villain, able to balance his character’s arrogance, cruelty and charm.

Francesca Mansfield had plenty of fun as Nancy the maid, as she flirted with Jack and gave withering looks and sneers to Jack’s wife, Bella. And Bob Rankin brought warmth and humanity to Detective Rough, the retired copper who comes to Bella’s aid.

But the star of the show was Jordan Sky Finding as Bella Manningham. Jordan avoided playing the role as a weeping damsel in distress and added depth to Bella. Her turn at the end of the play, when Bella has her revenge on Jack for his years of torment, was triumphant.

Director Caroline Burr did an excellent job at creating tension and drama, as well as bringing out the comedy within the script. There were some bold creative decisions, such as having Jack’s back to the audience at multiple points, but this added to his menace.

The stage design was also well done. The lighting was appropriately atmospheric – essential in a play where the dimming and brightening of the lights are part of the narrative. Kudos to lighting designer John Willmott, sound designer Jon Black, and Gary Hayton for writing original music that added to the tension.

‘Gaslight’ was an excellent showcase for the talent at Bournemouth Little Theatre.

Hello Bonjour from the Twinning Association

By Marilyn Barber

The Wimborne-Valognes Twinning Association, which is one of the oldest such associations in the country, staged two shows at the Allendale Centre in October.

There was a junior Encore Hello Bonjour in the afternoon with a senior one in the evening.

The wide range of entertainment included music from The Quarterjacks, SoundWave Sinfonia, Noah on keyboard and James on clarinet from Poole Young Musicians, a choir from St Michael’s Middle School and French folk music duo Confluence.

Other musicians were Dinah Ingle-Finch, Mark Armitage and Sue Desborough, with Rosie Hosking-Ellis, Isabelle Insuli and Grace Greenfield from QE School.

Footlights Dance Academy staged some impressive dancing and the whole concert was rounded off by rock band Lyme from QE School.

The Twinning Association, which has a full programme of events throughout the year as well as the opportunity to make friends in the twin town, welcomes new members.

See http://wvta.org.uk for more details.

Looking to get in the festive mood this December? ‘The Big Band at Christmas with Five Star Swing’ will be performing at the Regent Centre in Christchurch on Sunday 1 December, playing classic Christmas jingles with a swing band twist in the style of Glenn Miller, Frank Sinatra, Count Basie, and Nat King Cole. Tickets available via the Regent box office on

Film competition invites you to bring your story to life

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

Local people are invited to enter a film competition to put Wimborne in the spotlight.

Film Expo South, which is a driving force behind the film industry on the South Coast, launched its Script2Screen competition earlier this year and the deadline for entries is 31 January 2025.

Writers are invited to submit original screenplays between five and 12 pages long. The theme is set as Christmas and you can choose from four genres –Drama, Comedy, Children, and Horror.

There are over 35 industry experts poised to judge, and the stakes are high with an impressive grand prize –the winning scripts will be filmed, with all filming to take place in Wimborne.

Film Expo South has hosted many events as well as running the film offices in Dorset and Hampshire. It continues to collaborate with high-end

productions and emerging talent and supports independent film makers.

In 2021, the company launched its first global screenwriting competition with the aim of sponsoring one short film. In 2022, overwhelmed by the incredible talent and tremendous support, it produced three films (with thanks to TF Film Productions and AKI Studios – London). These films went on to win awards in the film festival circuits.

The winners will be announced on 4 April 2025 at a Red Carpet Awards Dinner in Wimborne. Filming will take place between 25 and 28 April.

To find out how to submit your script and all the rules, go to www. filmexposouth.com and check out the competitions page.

Film Expo South is also seeking crew, extras and locations to support the scriptwriters. Email info@ dorsetfilmoffice.com.

Ferndown food fayre returns

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Classy Bird is back with its Christmas Artisan Food & Craft Fayre

Get ready to once again be amazed by these talented businesses with their unique crafts, from bespoke woodcrafts to indulgent bakes and cakes, to handmade cards and quality jewellery. There’s homemade honey and scrumptious sausage rolls, plus face painting is also back.

This Fayre has it all!

So make sure to mark your calendars and join in for a day full of creativity and inspiration at The Barrington Centre in Ferndown on Sunday 8 December, 10am–3pm.

around & about

Events

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

Until 31 December

Bournemouth Christmas Tree Wonderland trail from Bournemouth Square, through the Lower Gardens and to the pier.

Until 1 January

Poole Christmas Maritime Light Trail starting from Falkland Square, along the High Street and to Poole Quay.

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

4 December 1.45pm–4.15pm Lytchett and Upton Floral Club willow workshop at CJs, Lytchett Minster Parish Church, BH16 6JE. Bring a workbox, willow is provided. Free parking.

5 December 7.30pm

Verwood and District Horticultural Society meets at Verwood Memorial Hall. Details on www. verwoodhorticulturalsociety.co.uk or call Ollie on 07508 577114.

6, 13 and 20 December 3.45pm, 4.30pm and 5.15pm Meet Santa in his woodland grotto at Wimborne Community Garden opposite Beaucroft College. For tickets, call 07851 402207 during evenings.

6 December 10am–3pm

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

6 December 7.30pm

Wimborne Valognes Twinning Association wine tasting at the Wimborne Community Centre. All welcome. Tickets via the Programme page on wvta.org.uk.

7 December 9.30am–12noon or 12.30pm–3pm

Wreath making at CJs, Lytchett Minster Parish Church BH16

6JE. Contact Sarah on 01202 622743 or sj28a@hotmail.co.uk.

7 December 10am–3pm

Broadstone Christmas events with parade starting 1.30pm from Story Lane.

7 December 11am–4pm Christmas Bazaar at Ringwood’s Waldorf School, Folly Farm Lane, Ashley, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2NN.

7 December 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 03303112793.

7 December 2.30pm

Fayrewood Singers present ‘The Most Wonderful Time of the Year’ at Verwood Methodist Church. Tickets on the door.

7 December 7pm

Grange Choral Society presents Handel’s Messiah at Christchurch Priory, Quay Road, BH23 1BU. Tickets from www. christchurchpriory.org/events, via 01202 143870 (Mon–Sat, 10am–4pm) or on the door.

8 December 10am–3pm

Christmas Artisan Food & Craft Fayre in The Barrington Centre, Pennys Walk, Ferndown, BH22 9TH.

8 December 1pm and 5pm

Grass Roots Theatre presents ‘Last Panto at Little Grimley’ at the Allendale Centre. Tickets from theallendale.org/grassroots.

9 December 7.30pm

Ferndown French Circle meets at The Centre, Barnes Road, Ferndown, BH22 8XH with a presentation, Une sélection de chansons françaises des années 1960 à 1970. Enquiries on 07754 481635.

9 December 7.30pm

Ferndown & West Moors Philatelic and Postcard Club meets at The Hamworthy Club, Canford Magna, BH21 3AP. Call secretary Paul Barry 07932 581791 or email paulrichardbarry@ hotmail.co.uk for details.

11 December 6.30pm–9pm

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

11 December 7.30pm

East Dorset Antiquarian Society meets at St Catherine’s Church Hall, Wimborne for a talk on the post Roman cemetery at Worth Matravers.

13 December 10.30am

Wimborne u3a talk on ‘dinosaurs, dwelling and discovery’ by Ron Taylor at Wimborne Methodist Church.

14 December 10am–11.30am Christchurch Win on Waste in Druitt Hall off the High Street, Christchurch.

14 December 10am–3pm Artisan Makers Market at Wimborne Community Centre, King Street Car Park, BH21 1EA. Free entry and dogs welcome.

15 December 7.30pm

The Broadstone Choir joined by Canzona Brass Christmas Concert. Performing Gloria & Kyrie from Weber: Mass in Eb and a selection of Christmas carols at Broadstone Methodist Church. Tickets £15, under 18s £8. For further info, email Broadstonechoir@gmail.com.

16 December 10.30am–11.30am Reading Friends group meets at Ferndown Library.

16 December 7.30pm Concert by St Aldhelm’s Orchestra at St Aldhelm’s Church, BH13 6BT. Free entry, retiring collection.

Wet winter dangers

We’ve had rather a lot of rain of late and if we’re destined for yet another wet winter, drivers should take extra care when performing certain manoeuvres.

Car parts marketplace Ovoko analysed road traffic accident data from the Department for Transport spanning 2013 to 2022 to identify the manoeuvres that result in the most collisions.

Turning right is the most dangerous manoeuvre to make on UK roads, as it’s responsible for an average of 21,347 reported road collisions each year, whilst slowing or stopping is considered

to be the second most dangerous manoeuvre to make, accountable for a total of 15,641 collisions a year.

Being held up while waiting to go ranks third, resulting in 12,402 incidents yearly.

Also among the five riskiest manoeuvres for Brits is moving off from a stationary position and going ahead on a right-hand bend.

On the other end of the scale, the least risky manoeuvre for Brits came out as waiting to turn left, with just 1,065 average yearly collisions.

South West drivers among UK’s most reckless

A new report reveals that drivers in the South West region have accumulated the second highest number of penalty points on their licences in the UK.

The report, compiled by used car specialists Available Car, is based on multiple Freedom of Information requests to the DVLA. The data shows that 175,894 drivers – 7.56 per cent of all licence holders in the region – had points on their licence. This was the second highest percentage of drivers with points.

The highest concentration of reckless drivers was Yorkshire and the Humber, where 178,108 drivers, or 8.27 per cent of licence holders, had penalty points.

Regionally, London had the highest volume of licence holders with points at more than 300,000, but this was a smaller proportion of the overall number of licence holders.

Fortunately for Dorset, none of the top 10 towns in the South West with the most reckless drivers were in the county. Instead, they were mainly in Devon, Somerset and Cornwall. The full report can be read on availablecar.com/news/britainsmost-reckless-drivers/

Scheme catches 387 speeding motorists in Dorset

Motorists who exceeded the speed limit in locations in Dorset during Community Speed Watch week in October will have received warning letters.

Volunteers monitored over 15,700 vehicles and issued 387 warning letters between Monday 14 and Sunday 20 October.

The volunteers operate with a basic speed detection device to monitor drivers exceeding the speed limit. The device does not take photos and the results do not result in a fine. Instead, a warning letter is sent by the police to the registered keeper of the vehicle, notifying them that their vehicle was seen to be exceeding the legal speed limit.

During the week, 32 teams

were deployed on 46 occasions, covering over 100 locations. A total of 2.5 per cent of vehicles observed were exceeding the speed limit and will receive warning letters. The highest speed recorded by Community Speed Watch teams was 55mph in a 30mph limit zone.

As well as issuing warning letters, the work of officers and the safety camera teams during the week resulted in more than 200 speed and other offences being processed.

If you would like to join an existing Community Speed Watch team or form a new one, please get in touch with the organisers via www. dorsetroadsafe.org.uk.

Brr… Dorset gritters are ready for winter

Dorset Council’s highways team is on standby to ensure key routes remain safe and passable as temperatures drop. Just under 100 members of the council’s regular highways team are ready, day and night, to keep vital roads

Last winter, gritting crews were called into action on 39 occasions from 1 November to 1 April. They carried out 58 individual route treatments, using 2,839 tonnes of salt. With milder weather, the callouts were down on the winter of 2022–23.

The busiest month for gritter drivers was January, when they were called out on 19 days and laid 1,648 tonnes of salt.

open. The depots have been restocked with rock salt and 25 new vehicles are in place to enhance winter preparations.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet member for Place Services, said: “As always, we are well-prepared to keep vital roads open during adverse weather conditions.

“Our dedicated teams step away from their regular duties when needed to ensure residents, businesses and emergency services can continue to travel around safely.”

Dorset’s gritting operations

cover 684 miles of roads, forming 23 main gritting routes. These roads are treated when surface temperatures are expected to drop below half of one degree Celsius. Community routes serving smaller villages and hamlets will be treated during prolonged periods of freezing temperatures to ensure rural communities can continue to travel.

Cllr Andrews said:

“Conditions can change quickly, so please take care when out and about. If you find yourself behind a gritting vehicle, please be patient and take care on freshly gritted roads.

“Our crews are on call for six months every winter to keep our roads safe, stepping away from their busy regular roles. Please be courteous when you see them, whether in the gritter lorry or doing regular highways work. They are working hard to keep Dorset moving and you safe.”

Motorists are urged to drive with care on freshly gritted roads.

“Even on treated roads it cannot be guaranteed there will be no ice. Additionally, rain can wash salt off the road, as can water run-off from fields. Please take care, reduce speed and keep a safe distance from the next vehicle. Remember, even if gritters have been out, roads can still be slippery.”

For more advice, visit

dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/w/ cold-weather-advice.

Speed Watch teams issued nearly 400 warning letters in one week in October

The council has 25 new vehicles in place to treat icy roads

Members of the highways team are on standby

Seasonal gifts and decorations

By Janine Pulford

It’s nearly time to bring out your Christmas jumpers and festive earrings, pyjamas, socks, scarves, gloves and hats, but don’t wear them all at the same time.

Not got any? You won’t have to go far to find some jolly fine merchandise. Most local retailers are bursting at the seams with seasonal all sorts for this once-a-year celebration.

If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t have to miss out. You can usually pick up a Christmas jumper for a few pounds at a local charity shop. It will not only keep you warm but will put you firmly in the festive mood.

On the other end of the scale, handmade gifts and decorations offer a personal touch and the creators will

appreciate you supporting their small industries.

Christmas markets are the perfect way to find these local craftspeople offering a variety of unique gifts. Why not visit the Food & Craft Fayre in Ferndown’s Barrington Centre on Sunday 8 December, or the Artisan Makers Market at Wimborne Community Centre on 14 December?

As well as these Christmas markets and others in the area, another way to support local artisans and artists is online via the British Craft House, which was launched in Hampshire in 2019. This multi-vendor platform brings together handmade items made in Great Britain. Visit thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk to find gifts and stocking

fillers that will bring a smile on Christmas day, such as dangly and stud earrings, a match striker pot, a handwoven throw, a knitted poncho or a Christmas pudding novelty beanie hat for the tiniest person in the house.

And if your tree is looking a little bare, there are timeless decorations available too, like the cute needle-felted robin with Santa hat (pictured).

On the subject of Christmas decorations, another retailer –Bourne Home – has introduced We Three Kings to its exclusive

selection at bournehome. com. It’s worth a peek to see what else they sell.

About their We Three Kings, the retailer said: “Here at Bourne Home, we have a cherished custom of the Three Kings following the star. If you have a manger set, bring out the three kings on Christmas Day but don’t place them at the manger right away. Instead, set them somewhere else in your home, allowing them to journey to the manger over the 12 days leading to the traditional Feast of the Epiphany on 6 January.”

Match striker pot holder £10, thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk

Crochet Christmas pudding novelty beanie hat £14, thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk

And if you’re expecting friends and family to visit this Christmas, it might be nice to spruce up your home décor. One simple way to do so is to update your light fixtures; buying a new lamp or shade will show off your home in a brand-new light (literally).

Poole Lighting’s Factory Shop has a huge range of options, as well as clearance discounts and regular deals. It’s not too soon to do your Christmas gift shopping, especially if you’re on the lookout for an advent calendar, but by purchasing early you can support small businesses

that rely on holiday sales. It will also free up your precious time nearer to Christmas Day to sit and relax with a glass of sherry and a mince pie whilst wearing your Santa hat, festive jumper, candy-striped fluffy socks and reindeer slippers.

Needle felted robin with Santa hat bauble £13.50, thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk

Dark Belgian chocolate advent calendar –accidentally vegan £22, thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk

Handmade hare dangly earrings £8, thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk

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RE: Fire engines axed across Dorset

I just cannot see how this makes sense in any way. Poole has a massive conurbation to cover and only last week the teams had a really challenging few days where they were kept VERY busy. I guess money really does mean more than people’s safety/lives!

Kirsty Maddox, Poole, Via Facebook

Frederick Wells Via Facebook CORRESPONDENCE

That will be great when there’s a fire in Wareham Forest, which happens on a regular basis in the summer months!

Coral Smith Via Facebook

Let’s hope those making the decisions are held to full account and if proven wrong they face employment actions!

UPHOLSTERY

WINDOW REPAIRS

Olympic and Paralympic athletes inspire people from BCP on heroes' parade

Report by Jecs Davies | Images © Dorset View

Athletes from Dorset who competed in the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games this year paraded through BCP in October in an inspiring open-top bus tour

Five Olympic and Paralympic athletes from Dorset paraded through Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole (BCP) on Monday 28 October in an inspiring open-top bus tour.

The athletes included Bryony Page, who won a gold medal in trampolining at the Paris Olympics, and her fellow trampolinist Izzy Songhurst. Alongside them were Matt Aldridge, who got bronze in rowing at the Olympics, Jack Eyers who got silver in canoeing at the Paralympics and Leo McCrea, who competed in the Paralympics representing Switzerland in swimming and won gold.

From 10.15am to 3pm, the Olympians and Paralympians rode around on a unique opentop bus provided by Morebus and stopped at three BCP leisure centres: Two Riversmeet in Christchurch followed by King’s Park in Bournemouth and finally Rossmore in Poole.

There was a cheerleading display at Kings Park and a trampolining display at Rossmore after BCP Council leader, Cllr Millie Earl, gave a speech to conclude the celebration.

Cllr Earl said: “I’m really proud of what our area has to offer and the opportunities we have for local people to access sport and leisure.

“It’s wonderful to be able to share this moment to recognise the achievements of our local Olympians and Paralympians and their coaches, and to thank them for inspiring us all to aim high and work hard.”

Inspiring the younger generation to participate in sport was an aim shared by all the athletes present on the day.

Leo McCrea, from Poole, said: “For me, today has

been about inspiring all the people that have come to see us. We’ve had a really amazing turnout; I wasn’t expecting so many people.

“The other athletes have been so nice and sharing all our different sports –swimming trampolining, rowing and canoeing – has made it a really special day.”

Leo is 20 years old and hopes to compete in a few more Paralympic Games. He has set his sights on Los Angeles in 2028, but until then will train for the European and World championships.

Jack Eyers, who started his canoeing journey in Wimborne, said: “Today has been really good, I’ve really enjoyed it. The recognition that we’ve got from BCP has just been awesome. The weather hasn’t been particularly on our side but people have still turned up and shown good energy.”

When asked what advice he would give to someone with a disability looking to start a sport, Jack said: “If you’ve got an impairment of some sort then find the right sport that fits your impairment as well as your interests. I went through a number of different sports before I found canoeing.

“For me, canoeing ticks a lot of boxes because I’m outside in all the elements; it’s a power sport and I love training in the gym and then using that in the water. That’s what fits my interest so my advice would be to understand exactly what it is you want to get out of sport and if it fits your impairment.”

For more information on BCP leisure centres and to get started with a sport or activity, visit www.bcpleisure.co.uk.

Jack Eyers and Izzy Songhurst, both in white, and Matt Aldridge, in red, in front of the open-top bus

Bryony Page, right, and Izzy Songhurst

L-R: Leo McCrea, Jack Eyers and Matt Aldridge