The Mudeford Mag | December 2023

December 2023

2003

2023

Charity of the year

www.themudefordmag.co.uk

Carpet Barn

themudefordmag.co.uk | 3

4 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 5

Disclaimer: Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that data in this publication is accurate, the publisher cannot accept any liability to any party for loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or any other cause.

The Mudeford Mag does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. No part of this publication may be produced, stored in any retrieval systems or transmitted in any form, without prior permission of the publisher

The

Welcome to

20

03 - 202

3

•

Mudeford Mag Your local magazines

A big thank you!

As 2023 comes to a close and we enter a new year, I want to say thank you to all who read, support, contribute, advertise and distribute the Mudeford Magazine, BH6&7 and the Bulletin, without you this wouldn’t be an achievable task.

We hope you have enjoyed the articles inside the magazine and we will bring you many more interesting local and heart-warming reads, like the one in this issue about the metal detectorist and how he has given back sentimental items thought to be lost forever.

This year we celebrated our 20th anniversary in publishing, and made a donation to our charity of the year Dorset Mind from our fundraising event. It was a fantastic night full of food, drink, an auction, raffle, music and fun!

Moving into 2024 our charity of the year is Lews-Manning Hospice, so you will learn from their upcoming articles about the work they do in the community.

Good luck in 2024 and don’t hesitate to contact us via social media, email, letter or telephone with interesting local information.

Louis Pulford, creative director

•

Regent Competition Parkinson’s UK’s Christchurch support group issues urgent appeal for volunteers Career Change – embracing the unknown Puzzles Trauma Teddies, STARS of Dorset Envision Your Life Book Reviews Gardening jobs for Dec/Jan Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Pastry, Burnt Orange and Candied Zest Over £2,000 raised for Dorset Mind Down the line - Christchurch History Society Travel Counsellor Celebrity Cruise Low maintenance gardening Cromer Lighthouse Puzzle solutions Safe spaces for nesting birds Copper Beech Dental RNLI Mudeford Short story by Helena Howton Regent Listings Toad Patrol News from All Saints Detectorist returns treasures of the heart

8 10 12 14 21 22 24 ii iv viii-ix x xii-xiii xiv xviii xxii xx xxiv xxviii xxx-xxxi xxxii 63 68 71-72

Scam alert BUSINESS IDENTITY THEFT WARNING Someone claiming to be a bailiff working on behalf of Pulford Publicity is contacting local businesses and demanding money for outstanding invoices.

The scammer(s) is using various mobile numbers. You can contact Pulford Publicity on 01202 870270 for further clarification. The scammer(s) has been heavy handed in approach and has no connection whatsoever with Pulford Publicity Ltd. If you get a suspicious call, please end it immediately.

Pulford Publicity has reported these incidents of business identity theft to the police and action fraud, and any victims should do the same. Please be assured, Pulford Publicity will never contact any client and demand money with menaces. If you have made a payment to this fraudster, please report it to Dorset Police on 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. You can also report online. If you feel in immediate danger call 999.

6 | themudefordmag.co.uk

2003

2023

01202 941468 Editor: Janine Pulford editorial@themudefordmag.co.uk Production: Ben Pulford Lead design: Louis Pulford Sales: Simon Thornton, 01202 941470 simon@dorsetview.co.uk Design: Dexter Elliott www.pulfordpublicity.co.uk www.themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 7

Competition

COMPETITION FOR YOUR CHANCE TO SEE THE BEACH BOYZ TRIBUTE SHOW GOODBYE-BRATIONS FINAL YEAR TOUR Don’t miss the final chance to see GoodbyeBrations near you, for the best and last time!

After a near-decade of touring the UK playing the music of The Beach Boys, (the inventors of the 60s’ California sound), the Beach Boyz Tribute Band will be performing their own tribute show before hanging up their surfboards for the final time.

Bringing you a live show like no other, the hits will come thick and fast: God Only Knows, Good Vibrations, California Girls, Surfin’ USA, I Get Around and many more.

Bring your Hawaiian shirts and dancing shoes for a night you will never forget in the California ‘sunshine’.

Appearing at the Regent, Christchurch on Friday 1 March 2024 at 7.30pm. Tickets £26 each.

To enter the competition for your chance to win a pair of tickets to this show, simply find Sammy Seagull who is hidden somewhere inside this month’s magazine (excluding this page).

Email the page number where he appears and your contact details to competition@themudefordmag.co.uk Closing date is Thursday 18 January 2024.

Good luck!

8 | themudefordmag.co.uk

Parkinson’s UK’s Christchurch support group issues urgent appeal for volunteers Parkinson’s UK’s Christchurch and District branch has issued an urgent appeal for volunteers. Local residents are encouraged to get in touch if they can spare a few hours each month to ensure the group can continue to support people affected by Parkinson’s.

The branch has been running for 42 years and is in high demand with many local people living with Parkinson’s regularly attending, but could be forced to shut as volunteer numbers have recently been in decline.

The branch, which meets at St Catherine’s Hill, is looking for a branch chair, branch secretary and branch committee volunteers to keep the group operating.

These are flexible roles with a big impact. The volunteers will ensure people with Parkinson’s who live locally can access activities that make a real difference to them. The chair will act as the leader to shape the support, friendship and activities offered in the area. The secretary will be responsible for organising the committee and ensuring the group and its activities are running smoothly. Branch committee volunteers are the heart and soul of the group, assisting with the general running of the branch and welcoming attendees with a friendly face and a cuppa. Plus, there are opportunities to get involved throughout the year with fundraising and local events. After initial on boarding there will be on going training and support provided.

Josie Taylor, network support officer, Parkinson’s UK said: “Activities provided by local groups are a lifeline for people in the local area who 10 | themudefordmag.co.uk

are living with Parkinson’s, but unless new volunteers step forward people could be left without the support they need.

“If you can spare anything from a few hours a month we’d love to welcome you to volunteer alongside the amazing people who are part of the group, because with your support we really can change lives.

“As well as making a big difference to people living with Parkinson’s in your local community, volunteering is a great opportunity to try something new, have new experiences, and meet new people. Join us today.”

Around 153,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with Parkinson’s, including approximately 4,014 across Dorset and Wiltshire.

Parkinson’s UK is the country’s leading charity supporting those with the condition. Its mission is to find a cure and improve life for everyone affected by Parkinson’s through pioneering research, information, support and campaigning.

The Christchurch and District support group meets on the fourth Monday of each month from 2pm until 4pm at St Catherine’s Hill Community Hall, 17 Marlow Drive, Christchurch, BH23 2RR. Visit parkinsons.org.uk for more information about Parkinson’s UK support groups.

For further details about the volunteer vacancies for the Christchurch and District Branch, contact Josie Taylor, Network Support Officer, on 0344 225 3744 or jltaylor@parkinsons.org.uk

Career Change –

embracing the unknown

by Rebecca Smith At one time, having one lifelong career was ‘the norm.’ However, in today’s rapidly evolving job market, career change has become much more commonplace. The idea of embarking on a new professional path can be daunting, leading many to shy away from such changes. But, as the saying goes, sometimes you must “feel the fear and do it anyway.” Now, of course this is not a suggestion that you should quit on the spot with no job to go to! Some of the points below may help you to address some common concerns and how to move forward into an exciting new career path.

One of the main challenges when contemplating a career change is the fear of the unknown. Leaving behind the familiarity and taking a leap of faith into a different field can make you feel anxious and uncertain. However, this fear should not be a deterrent but rather a motivator. It is essential to remember that change often brings growth and new opportunities.

Transferable skills are the secret weapon when making a career transition. While the specific technical skills may differ between jobs, there are core competencies such as communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership skills which are highly valued across a multitude of industries.

Recognising and leveraging these transferable skills can provide a solid foundation for success in a new professional field.

12 | themudefordmag.co.uk

One obstacle to face is the fear of judgment from others. People may worry about how their peers, family, or society at large will perceive them for making such a significant change.

What if it does not go smoothly? It is crucial to remember that failure is a part of growth, and it is better to try and learn than to never try at all.

True success lies in having the courage to pursue one’s dreams, regardless of others’ opinions.

To overcome these fears, seeking guidance and support can be invaluable. Networking with professionals who have made successful career transitions, perhaps into or from the industries that you are looking at or currently working in, joining industryrelated groups (social media is full of these) or seeking advice from career coaches can offer valuable insights and encouragement.

In conclusion, embracing career change is a sign of adaptability and growth in today’s dynamic job landscape. By recognising that you have valuable transferable skills and conquering the fear of judgment, it is possible to unlock new possibilities and find new satisfaction in pursuing a passion. Although it is rarely easy, it is always worth it and it is never too late to redefine your career path and create a brighter future. Embrace the fear, face the challenges, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and professional fulfilment.

themudefordmag.co.uk | 13

Coffee Break Time How to solve codeword Every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number.

All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number.

To start you off we reveal the code for 3 letters.

How to solve Sudoku Fill the 9 × 9 grid with numbers so that each column, each row, and each of the nine 3 × 3 subgrids that compose the grid contain all of the digits from 1 to 9.

Solutions on page XX

Coffe Break Time sponosred by Louis P Creative

14 | The themudefordmag.co.uk Mudeford Mag

themudefordmag.co.uk | 15

16 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 17

18 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 19

20 | themudefordmag.co.uk

STARS Trauma Teddies out and about

Trauma Teddies, STARS of Dorset Could you knit a Trauma Teddy to help soothe a child who has been referred to the charity STARS Dorset?

Trauma Teddies are small knitted or crocheted teddy bears given out by the charity STARS Dorset to bring comfort to their youngest clients.

STARS Dorset supports people recovering from sexual trauma and they have a special request to readers of this magazine.

Therapists found that holding a teddy helps to calm a distressed child, which creates a sense of safety and stability.

Pulford Publicity has already publicised these dear little bears in their community magazine Dorset View and following the article, STARS received more than 500 responses and have knitters close to home and as far afield as Sydney, Australia working to support people in recovery. Their trauma teddies are popping up all around the world and there is even one ‘temping’ at Pulford Publicity’s office in Ferndown.

Now is your chance to join the team of volunteer knitters.

Natalie Giles, head of Adult Counselling & Support Services, said: “It’s been an amazing story

and after Pulford Publicity’s news piece we had a phenomenal number of requests for knitting patterns, so far, we’ve had about 500 bears just from that piece.”

Helen Stevens, STARS Dorset CEO, said: “We’ve been completely blown away by the generosity of so many different individuals who have so kindly knitted or crocheted teddies for us.

It’s been a phenomenal community response and we never imagined how this simple concept would bring so much delight to so many different people.

Thank you to all those who have supported us. And thank you to the team at Pulford Publicity for their continued support of the work of STARS Dorset.”

STARS is still in need of knitted teddies as they have hundreds of young people waiting for counselling, and they can be given a Trauma Teddy as a comfort while they are on the waiting list.

If you are interested, please email info@ starsdorset.org and request a Trauma Teddy pattern or call the STARS centres on 01202 308840 for more information. themudefordmag.co.uk | 21

Envision your life I am a big fan of weekend breaks. They really do feel like a mini holiday, whatever the weather.

When I lived in London, I used to often head to Suffolk to wander the countryside and soak up the atmosphere but just recently I have felt a yearning to travel back to somewhere I used to call home, Devon. It’s something I intend to do more of in 2024.

With the New Year in our thoughts (where did the previous year go?) it’s time to think about what you want to do more of.

I am all about goal setting and making plans for the future, I believe they are your life force, keeping you moving forward, whatever your age.

I have been inspired by many women and men, who have made massive life changes well into their 80s! Life, after all, is for living.

I have touched on this before, but I do love to create a vision board. I get a piece of A4 card and on it I stick pictures of things I would like to do, singing lessons, a cottage in the country, a dog, 22 | themudefordmag.co.uk

holidays to Wales, a garden to grow vegetables in. Even if you don’t have any big life plans or anything you would like to change, perhaps there are some people you would like to get back in touch with, or maybe you want to join a local club or take up a new hobby. Or maybe, like me, you plan to take more weekend breaks, visiting places in our country or visiting friends and family.

If, when reading this, you are getting all excited at the thought of what might lie ahead, make sure you follow through with your dreams and wishes, after all, everything in existence started as a dream which became a reality.

I believe 2024 will be a time to put to bed the worries and woes of the last years and look to the future with a positive mindset and a newly invigorated zest for life.

With Love Beth www.thelifestyleconcept.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 23

Book Reviews

Glorious Exploits

Sensational: A New Story of Our Senses

by Ferdia Lennon hardback £14.99 Set following Athens’ failed invasion of Sicily in 412 BC, thousands of Athenian soldiers are being held captive in the quarries of Syracuse, starving, dejected, and hanging on by the slimmest of threads. Lampo and Gelon are local potters, young men with no work and barely two obols to rub together. When they take to visiting the nearby quarry, they discover prisoners who will, in desperation, recite lines from the plays of Euripides for scraps of bread and a scattering of olives. And so an idea is born: the men will put on Medea in the quarry.

Because after all, you can hate the Athenians for invading your territory, but still love their poetry. But as the audacity of their enterprise dawns on them, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between enemies and friends. An ambitious and cathartic novel, like all great tragedy, but with a good deal of dark humour too.

by Ashley Ward paperback £10.99 Our senses are how we navigate the world: they help us recognise the expressions on a loved one’s face, know whether fruit is ripe by its smell, or even sense a storm approaching through a sudden drop in air pressure. It’s now believed that we may have as many as 53 senses - and we’re just beginning to expand our knowledge of this incredibly extensive palette. Sensational is a mind-bending look at how our brains shape our experience of the world, marshalling the latest discoveries in science to explore the dazzling eyesight of the mantis shrimp, the rich inner lives of krill, and the baffling link between geomagnetic fields and canine bowel movements.

Blending biology add neuroscience, Ward reveals that understanding our senses may hold the key to understanding the origins of human behaviour - from why we kiss to our varied music tastes.

Worst Week Ever!

Thursday

by Eva Amores paperback £6.99 Justin Chase is having the WORST WEEK EVER! He’s dressed up like a clown on national TV, his worst enemy is stealing the limelight, and there’s definitely something weird happening with everyone’s cats. At least he’s found a new BFF in international pop sensation, teen heartthrob and Justin’s name twin, Justin Chase, right? Maybe not... as a case of mistaken identity leads to a disastrous kidnapping and Justin is forced to race against the clock (and the ferocious dog) to escape! This is the fourth book in the hilarious series. Monday was mortifying, Tuesday was tumultuous, Wednesday was wild, but now it’s…

THURSDAY! Ideal for primary and junior school readers.

Why not pop into the shop to have a browse and spend any National Book Tokens that you may have received as gifts? Or you can contact us on 01202 418403, email sales@ bh6booksandhome.co.uk or find us on social media @bh6booksandhome to place orders and discover all that we have to offer at BH6 Books and Home, 69 Southbourne Grove, BH6 3QU. 24 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | i

ii | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | iii

Introducing Christian Ørner Would you like to make a dessert like a multi award winning private chef?

This month we introduce recipes from Christian Ørner, a private chef and chocolatier based in Poole. Find him at https://www.salt-co.co.uk/

Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Pastry, Burnt Orange and Candied Zest VANILLA PASTRY (makes 10 individual 5cm fluted tart moulds) 45g Salted butter at room temperature 33g Caster sugar 1 Tsp Vanilla bean paste (usually available at supermarkets) 2 Large egg yolks 105g Type 00 pasta flour (can use plain flour if you can’t find Type 00) METHOD • Cream together butter, sugar and vanilla bean paste until light and fluffy using an electric whisk.

• Add yolks and cream them in.

• Weigh the flour directly into the bowl and mix together until a dough forms.

• Roll the pastry out straight away. Aim for approximate thickness of a 50p piece.

• Use a pastry cutter larger than the size of your moulds to cut the size of the pastry needed.

• Line your pastry moulds.

• Leave to rest for a minimum 30 minutes.

• Pre heat oven to 150c fan.

• Once dough has rested and oven is heated bake for 20 minutes, (no need for baking beans). iv | themudefordmag.co.uk The Mudeford Mag

CANDIED ORANGE ZEST 1 Large orange 50g Caster sugar 50g Water

METHOD • Using a peeler, peel the outside of the orange.

• Thinly slice the peel using a sharp knife.

• Add to a saucepan and add sugar and water.

• Bring everything to the boil and immediately lower to the lowest temperature on your stove.

• Cook for 45 minutes, then turn off heat and leave to cool in the pan.

• Once cool, pass liquid through a sieve and pat dry the candied zest.

BURNT ORANGE SEGMENTS 1 Orange

METHOD • Once the candied peel has been made, use a knife to cut away the bitter white pith of the orange so you are left with the orange flesh.

• Cut in a ‘V’ shape in between the lines on the orange to remove the segments.

• Remove any pips and put the segments on a heatproof tray.

• Using a blowtorch, heat the segments until they start to caramelise.

DARK CHOCOLATE CREMEAUX

(Makes 10 individual 5cm tart moulds) 150g Double cream 150g Full fat milk (also works with semi skimmed milk).

3 Egg yolks 25g Caster sugar 125g 70% Dark chocolate 1 pinch of Maldon Sea Salt METHOD • Bring to the boil the milk and double cream.

• Mix egg yolks and sugar together to form a paste.

• Once boiled, pour the hot cream and milk onto the yolk and sugar mix, stir to combine.

• Pour it back into the pan and back on the heat until it reaches 80c on a digital temperature probe.

• As soon as it reaches 80c, pour through a sieve into a clean bowl and add the chocolate and the salt.

• Whisk this all together to form the creameaux.

• Place in fridge to set.

• When set, pour it all into a piping bag and pipe into the cooked and cooled tart shells.

• Top with burnt orange segments and candied orange zest.

• Enjoy with friends, or on your own in one or more sitting.

themudefordmag.co.uk | v

vi | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | vii

Charity of the Year

OVER £2,000 RAISED FOR DORSET MIND What a night it was on 14 October when over 50 people came together to raise funds for Pulford Publicity’s charity of the year, Dorset Mind, supported by this magazine.

Six months of planning and preparation culminated in an exceptional fundraiser held at Dudsbury Golf Club.

At the 11th hour, singer Charlotte Geary had to pull out due to a throat infection.

One of the organisers, Janine Pulford, said: “Against all probabilities our longstanding friend, Matt Black, came to the rescue and was able to bring his piano and L-R Ben Pulford, Louis Pulford, Janine Pulford, Matt Black, Tony Brown put on one of his legendary performances. Not only that, he generously waived After dinner, Matt Black had everyone in his expenses and asked stitches as he fired off a string of hilarious jokes for them to be donated to Dorset Mind.” whilst playing the piano. He even got everyone Ben Pulford welcomed everyone, followed singing ‘Happy Birthday’ in Monty Python-esque

by Dorset Mind’s CEO, Linda O’Sullivan from Bridport, and Marie Glen, legacy and bids voices to one of the guests, Natasha Boyland. officer, giving a short presentation about the On a more serious note, he sang ‘Don’t Let the charity’s work and its need for funds to help Sun Go Down on Me’ – a song that he said had those in Dorset with mental health issues. got him through a difficult time in his life.

A flash auction with ‘auctioneer’ from “Matt is a true legend. There was lots of Y-Not Finance, Tony Brown, was followed laughter and time for reflection in his act and by a three-course meal and coffee. everyone thoroughly enjoyed it,” said Janine. viii | themudefordmag.co.uk

Natasha – birthday girl and her party

Following on from Matt Black was no easy task, but Tony Brown managed it superbly as he started the main auction. With interest soaring, a set of Portmeirion bowls donated by Salamander Cook Shop in Wimborne reached £100 and a luxury hamper (a late ‘lot’ from Virginia Hayward in Shaftesbury) made £150. A surprise and generous donation on the night of an air conditioning package for a bedroom was given

by Suzanne and Sam Lovell from Meridian Air Conditioning, which made an incredible £600 for Dorset Mind, and then came a shock. Tony Brown asked Janine to sit down. Her youngest son and creative director Louis Pulford offered to have his dreadlocks auctioned off to raise more funds for Dorset Mind. As he’s been growing them for over 15 years, there were gasps from both of his parents and some of guests. Bidding rapidly reached £100 and the fate of his dreadlocks was sealed by Sue and Clive Watkiss from West Moors.

In another gesture of generosity, Sue Lovell of Meridian outbid everyone for the Ferndown Florist flower arrangement, which flew to £80 and without hesitation she presented it to Janine in thanks for “the lovely evening.” She also won the giant cuddly toy pig in the raffle and kindly donated it to Tony Brown who’d had his eye on it all night. He aptly named it MAC after Meridian Air Conditioning!

Janine, Nick, Ben and Louis would like to say a big “thank you” to everyone who supported

the charity event from the businesses donating prizes to the guests on the night. The raffle, auction and dinner raised over £2,000.

The lively evening was filmed for Pulford Publicity by Jecs Davies from Bournemouth University. It can be seen on YouTube by searching for Pulford Publicity Charity Event or by visiting https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=NG5bH3KN0UM Pulford Publicity’s Charity of the Year for 2024 is Lewis-Manning Hospice Care in Poole.

Linda O’Sullivan and Marie Glen, Dorset Mind

themudefordmag.co.uk | ix

Down the line

by Julie Ratcliffe

Works are ongoing across the area to install ultrafast broadband that will soon become available to households and businesses.

The internet has made telecommunications quick and easy between people and places anywhere in the world. We can see to whom we are speaking and even hold meetings involving dozens of people.

It’s over 130 years since people in Christchurch and surrounds were first able to connect and speak via the telephone. As technology and demand moved forward, so too did the accommodation that made it possible.

The first telephone communications were made by connecting ‘lines’ within exchanges. The very first connection between Christchurch and Bournemouth was made in March 1890 when The Western Counties & South Wales Telephone Co Ltd announced that a local exchange and public call office was to open in Tailor’s Dairy.

Tailor’s Dairy was the premises next to the George Inn, ironically, recently the O2 shop.

The exchange was open daily from 8am to 8pm, except Sunday. Calls connected to Bournemouth

Telephone exchange 1930s and 1968 © Julie Ratcliffe

exchange cost 4d, and to Poole 6d (old pennies).

Anyone within a mile of the exchange could be connected for £11 per annum. There was also an exchange at Southbourne-on-Sea with calls between here and Christchurch costing 2d.

Individual lines proved popular. In 1903 the Guardians at the Workhouse and cottage homes, Fairmile, invited tenders to supply them with telephones. In 1904 a line between Christchurch Exchange and Highcliffe Castle was provided for the visit of Lord and Lady Curzon.

As the use of telephones grew, larger exchanges were needed. In 1905, The National Telephone Call Office Ltd set up an exchange at 80 Bargates where it stayed until 1913. The next exchange was at 17 High Street, above the then Post Office, which was also a Telegraph and Telephone Call Office. Around 1931 the exchange moved to purpose-built premises in Sopers Lane. By 1939 the Bournemouth area exchange coverage included 69 exchanges, 26,000 exchange lines, and 36,000 telephones.

Subscriber Trunk Dialling was the next innovation allowing subscribers to dial directly to other numbers, cutting out the need for an operator. To accommodate this, in 1967 a new exchange was built adjacent to the one in Sopers Lane. Sadly, this meant around 40 operators lost their jobs. By then there were 3,000 subscribers in Christchurch. The original Sopers Lane exchange is now flats however, the 1967/8 exchange is still in use by BT. BT, like many other providers, is preparing to switch off the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) network in December 2025. We wonder what might be next down the line.

Coming Talks: • 2 January The Tyser Legacy – A History of Port Line, with Jonathan Clark a descendant of Port Line founder, Thomas Royden • 6 February History and development of Druitt Gardens, with Peter Fenning www.historychristchurch.co.uk

x | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | xi

- advertisement feature -

My Celebrity Silhouette cruise from Southampton to Portugal and the Canary Islands 11 October to 22 October 2023 After a quick and easy check-in at Southampton City Cruise Terminal we were soon on board Celebrity Silhouette and heading to the Oceanview Café for a bite to eat. The Oceanview Café offers buffet style meals for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even late-night snacks until one o’clock in the morning. It’s the perfect option if you don’t want to go to the main restaurant or want a late breakfast.

We made our way to our cabin, a veranda midship on deck 6. Our luggage arrived promptly, and we met our cabin steward. Around 4pm we set sail and later headed to dinner in the main

xii | themudefordmag.co.uk

restaurant. Celebrity offers early- and late-dining or Celebrity Select dining which means you can choose when you wish to dine. They also offer speciality restaurants which can be booked in advance or on board, an extra charge applies.

There are plenty of bars on board including the Craft Social Sports Bar, Martini Bar and Sky Lounge. All great for pre- or post-dinner drinks.

After a day at sea getting to know Celebrity Silhouette, our first port of call was Porto, Northern Portugal. The ship docked in Leixoes, we took the complimentary shuttle bus to Porto, it took around 20 minutes and dropped us in Gaia which

is where all the Douro River cruise ships set sail.

We did our own walking tour of Porto, visited the market and enjoyed some tapas and a glass of Douro wine before returning to the ship in late afternoon.

After another sea day we arrived in Arrecife, it was very warm. We explored Arrecife (including the new shopping centre) and got the local bus to Costa Teguise.

The next two ports of call were Tenerife and Gran Canaria, both were easy to explore independently, or some passengers prefer to take full or half day excursions organised by the ship.

It was then time to leave the Canary Islands and the sunshine and begin our journey back to Southampton. Unfortunately, our scheduled stop at Vigo was cancelled due to bad weather but we did get to spend more time in Lisbon, so all was not lost. No need for shuttle buses here, you can easily walk to the city centre and explore all that Lisbon has to offer.

After a final day at sea, we arrived back in Southampton. I loved my cruise on Silhouette, it’s so easy to sail from Southampton. After five years, this was Silhouette’s final sailing from Southampton. From May 2024 to October 2024 Celebrity Apex will be taking her place. Celebrity Apex entered service in 2021 and is the second Edge class ship in Celebrity Cruises fleet. It has 29 bars, restaurants and lounges and will offer a

variety of itineraries to the Mediterranean and Northern Europe without having to fly. There will be sailings of varying lengths including some 4-night sailings. The shorter sailings are a perfect option for any travellers that are new to cruise.

Celebrity Apex also has dedicated options for solo cruisers with some single staterooms as well as connecting staterooms for family groups.

To find out more cruising from Southampton, fly cruises or any travel plans please get in touch.

SALLY PULLEN TRAVEL COUNSELLOR T 01202 375150 M 07929626156 E sally.pullen@travelcounsellors.com W www.travelcounsellors.com/sally.pullen themudefordmag.co.uk | xiii

LOW MAINTENANCE GARDENING If you are not always able to spend enough time and energy in your front garden as you wish but still want it to look good; one sure-fire solution is to plant some good robust, specimen shrubs with a weedresistant mulch such as a slate, gravel, or bark.

They will then need very little maintenance with just a trim once or sometimes twice a year.

Designing with plants

My top plants suggestions are: •

Abelia’ ‘Edward Goucher

•

Mahonia Soft Caress

•

Pittosporum Golf Ball

•

Nandina Domestica

•

Choisya White Dazzler

Add a couple of grasses such as: •

Pannicum Northwind or

•

Calamagrostis Overdam

If you are looking for some design inspiration to create an exciting new garden then contact Colin T: 01425 655038 M: 07925 166767 W: www.ckgardendesign.co.uk xiv | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | xv

xvi | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | xvii

Cromer Lighthouse

From very early times a light at the coastal town of Cromer, east of Foulness, was shone from the top of Cromer Parish Church to guide passing ships.

In 1660, Sir John Clayton proposed that a lighthouse should be provided together with other lights at the Farne Islands, Flamborough Head, and Corton near Lowestoft. Clayton and his partner George Blake received a 60-year patent in 1669 and work began acquiring land. At Foulness, landowner William Reyes leased a parcel of land on the cliff top for the Cromer lighthouse. It was completed in 1676 at a cost of £3,000. The king advised specific rates should be charged to owners of passing ships, to be paid voluntarily.

Trinity House rigorously opposed the establishment of private lighthouses with legal objections and as a result, the lighthouse at Cromer was never lit although it proved a useful day mark.

Although Clayton’s attempt had failed, individuals continued to maintain that a lighthouse was essential. In 1718 Edward Bowell of Ipswich petitioned Trinity House for a light at Cromer supported by ships’ masters in the coal trade indicating a willingness to pay the light dues. Bowell agreed to pay a rent to Trinity House for which he agreed to maintain the lighthouse so that Trinity House could apply for a for a 61year patent in their name. The light dues were set at a farthing per ton for general cargo and a halfpenny per chaldron [25 cwt] of Newcastle coal.

First lit on 29 September 1729, the lighthouse was an xviii | themudefordmag.co.uk

octagonal tower, three storeys high and topped with a coal fire enclosed in a glazed lantern. In 1780, the lease was extended, however, the lighthouse became precarious due to cliff erosion with cliff falls recorded in 1799, 1825 and in 1832.

A new lighthouse was built much further inland, which came into use in 1833. The original lighthouse remained as a day mark until 1866 when it slipped into the sea.

The new octagonal tower was built to 59-feet high with the focal plane of the light being 275 feet above mean sea level. Its lantern contained a three-sided revolving array of 30 oil lamps, 10 on each side, each mounted with a parabolic reflector. These lamps consumed some 1,100 gallons of oil annually. The optical apparatus took three minutes per revolution, providing one flash every minute that had a

range of some 27 nautical miles.

In 1905, the lighthouse was converted to town gas but still used the old reflector arrays. There were 14 burners with seven on each side of the revolving frame, however, the speed of rotation was increased to produce a flash every 30 seconds. In 1935 the lighthouse was part-electrified.

Full electrification took place in 1958 and the reflectors were replaced with a new optic. The lantern was replaced with the much smaller one you can see today. Full automation took place in 1990 and it is now monitored from the Trinity House Operation Control Centre in Harwich.

The Keepers’ cottages are rented out as holiday apartments but sadly, the tower is not open to the general public.

Keith Morton - Association of Lighthouse Keepers – alkhurst@gmail.com

themudefordmag.co.uk | xix

Safe spaces for nesting birds

by Valerie Kelly Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group has been working with the Red House Museum in Christchurch, providing advice on how to create safe spaces for nesting birds in the museum’s lovely gardens. The museum then reached out to Christchurch Men’s Shed, who very kindly made and donated a variety of bird and bat boxes, including a Sparrow house. The club has a workshop in Highcliffe. Another bird box in the Red House Museum gardens was made by the Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre Dementia Group. To complement the bird boxes, bee/ insect boxes were kindly donated by the New Milton Men’s Shed.

Lorna Markey, volunteer gardener for the Red House Museum stated: “We are very pleased to have received these and hope the bird boxes will be inhabited next spring.

Spiders have taken up residence in the insect boxes, and with winter arriving hopefully many insects will have a cosy place to stay safe.”

Other CHOG news It is always fascinating to follow autumn migration and notably in November has included sightings of Snow Bunting, which is a winter visitor from Scandinavia; several Yellow-browed Warblers; a late Hoopoe, which is a scarce passage migrant; and Ring Ouzels.

Out at sea, after storm Ciarán, a number of Leach’s Petrels were seen, along with several Sandwich Terns that sometimes overwinter around our shores.

CHOG has a fabulous website CHOG.org. uk which is easy to navigate and where records of sightings are updated daily in the form of a diary. Here is an example:

3 November 2023.

The feature of the day was, without doubt, Bearded Tit – with sightings as follows: seven from Parky Meade Rail towards Wick; five just upriver from the HHC; a single in Wick Hams; and one by the Wooden Bridge, plus, anecdotally, ‘loads’ seen there by a visiting birder.

Close by, the Yellow-browed Warbler is now in its sixth day on the junction of paths around 50m south of the Wooden Bridge – it can be very vocal, but please set expectations in terms of seeing it. Also on Wick, a Ring Ouzel that put in a couple of cameos about the Bobolink Field.

The entry continues with sightings of many other birds, but there is not the room to expand it here, so please check it out for yourself on the website.

CHOG Membership The easiest way to join and make a positive contribution to local conservation is by visiting www.CHOG.org.uk. You don’t have to be a member to enjoy the website. xx | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | xxi

Puzzle

xxii | themudefordmag.co.uk

solutions

themudefordmag.co.uk | xxiii

Copper Beech Clinic – Our First Year Anniversary Mrs Ella Aslani DDS Stockholm Principal Dentist – Copper Beech Clinic It has been a year since we moved into our brand new, state-of-the-art dental, facial aesthetics and wellbeing clinic. We are proud to say that our practice is one of the oldest dental practices in Christchurch (established in the 1940s). Prior to the name change, we have been operating from Stephen House in Bargates for the past 31 years Since I took over the practice in 2003, I always strived to improve the quality and standard of dental care provided to our patients.

Unfortunately, Stephen House was on a first floor and many of our patients struggled to climb the stairs. When Covid hit, I decided that we needed a larger, easy to access site to be able to provide convenience and comfort for our patients. After a long search, we found the right location and the property in Christchurch - by the traffic lights at Barack Road/Stour Road junction. The house was old, derelict and needed a lot of care to restore it to its former glory. A brilliant local building team (Solario builders) did just that. The journey this far has not been easy but was made possible with

the continued support from our patients and the local public which I am grateful for.

I struggled to come up with a new name for the practice since we moved out of the Stephen House. We had numerous discussions amongst my team and there were a few good suggestions. One day whilst I was driving past Barrack Road, the large – unmistakable Copper Beech tree behind the property caught my attention. We decided to call the new practice - Copper Beech Clinic after the tree.

So, Copper Beech Clinic was born.

The relocation has been very successful and we are going from strength to strength. All our existing patients and clients moved with us and continue to support and recommend us to their family and friends. We are now the only independently run dental practice in Christchurch - proud to be providing the highest quality dental care available to our patients in a mordent setting and relaxing environment. In 2023 we celebrated our one-year anniversary.

November was oral cancer awareness month. Over a year ago I started writing a series of articles for the benefit of the wider public about different topics related to oral health in this magazine. My first ever article was about oral cancer. This subject is close to my heart. I lost my father at age 63 due to head and neck cancer. This is just to reiterate to anyone who is not visiting a dentist regularly - it is important to visit a dentist at least once a year to ensure nothing nasty growing in your mouth. We at Copper Beech clinic always screen every patient for mouth and head and neck cancer. We are currently offering £5 off any dental health check booked before the end of December 2023.

xxiv | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | xxv

DIVERSE ABILITIES TREECYCLING

Treecycling for charity Bookings are now being taken by the charity Diverse Abilities to have your Christmas tree collected from Friday 5 January until Monday 8 January 2024 from Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wimborne, East Dorset and Ringwood. To book your collection for the first weekend of January visit www.diversabilities. org.uk/trees The suggested donation is £10.

Julia’s House will also be collecting trees from doorsteps on 11, 12 and 13 January in Bournemouth, Christchurch, Poole, Corfe Mullen, Wimborne and Purbeck for a suggested minimum donation of £10. Book at www.juliashouse.org/trees All funds raised from the Christmas

xxvi | themudefordmag.co.uk

tree collection will help these charities in their fundraising efforts.

Diverse Abilities is also recruiting volunteers to help the Treecycling team to collect and recycle Christmas trees. Families and businesses with access to vans, pickup trucks, or buses should contact Fran on 01202 718266 to discuss how to get involved and help make a difference for the charity.

And if you want to help Julia’s House in the same way please get in touch with the team at treepickup@juliashouse.org or call 01202 644220 Trees will be disposed of sustainably and recycled into wood chippings.

themudefordmag.co.uk | xxvii

RNLI Mudeford

Fundraising Crew Newsletter RNLI Mudeford Fundraising Crew have had some very successful events this year – some planned, some last minute – that have been great to organise.

Highlights include the 2nd Blue Light Day in July, Sea Shanties with the Wareham Whalers, a stall at The Avon Beach Hut Market as well as coffee mornings, beetle drives and a Christmas Fayre. This 60th anniversary year of Mudeford Lifeboat Station was set to finish with a coffee morning on 14 December from 10am-12 noon at Stanpit Village Hall and carols on the Quay on 15 December from 7-8pm.

2024 marks the RNLI’s 200th anniversary and Mudeford fundraising crew are getting ready for some Stormy Stan at our Coffee Morning at WiseGuys extra events to mark this special year. Monday 4 March is the actual anniversary date, and on 1 March there will be The Shout concert with The Wareham Whalers. and on 17th, a commemorative service, open to all, at Christchurch Priory hosted by two RNLI branches of Mudeford and Christchurch & Bournemouth.

Passing Yellow Welly in the More are planned, so do get in touch if you Porsche Baton Challenge are interested in attending or helping out.

Dates for the diary

Friday 1 March:The Shout, an evening of sea shanties with the Wareham Whalers at 7.30pm, St Mark’s Church Hall, Highcliffe, tickets £8 available January, bring your own drinks and nibbles.

Sunday 17 March: 200th Commemorative Service at Christchurch Priory at 3pm. Open to all.

Tour of the RNLI All Weather Lifeboat Centre

xxviii | themudefordmag.co.uk

For more information or to get involved with our Fundraising Crew, please contact adele.orr.63@gmail.com

Celebrating 60 years of Mudeford Lifeboat Station We have a very interesting fundraising programme throughout the year. If you would like to join us and receive full details, please contact Adele on adele.orr.63@gmail.com.

We meet generally on the first Wednesday of each month at 2.15 pm or quarterly at 7.30 pm in Stanpit Village Hall.

themudefordmag.co.uk | xxix

Short

Story

No More Losing Out

by Helena Howton

By-the-Brook, Mags Barrow, Tincletown was an unusual address.

“This is picture postcard material,” Pete said as they walked up the path to the front door. “Pity about West Street. The house was okay, but what a dreary location. I couldn`t live in a town any more.”

Kirsty prickled with irritation. They’d lived in the centre of Bournemouth for ten years and he’d never complained before. His change of heart happened all too suddenly after they accepted an offer on their home so they could downsize, and he decided to clear out the loft. He came across childhood snapshots at his uncle’s farm in Devon.

They triggered happy memories, and Pete became a country cottage enthusiast overnight. He’d spent hours trawling the Internet for country properties and By-the-Brook was on his list of hopefuls.

“I liked West Street,” she said. “Just up the road from my art class and handy for the supermarket.

And you have to admit the garden was a picture. In the summer you’d be able to imagine you were in the country.”

“Wouldn’t be the same, it’s the air that’s different,” said Pete obstinately, before putting the key in the lock.

Kirsty sighed. They agreed on most things, but if there was a disagreement, she was always the one to lose out. This time – she was determined – she did not want to live in the country.

They’d already seen three rural cottages. One was too remote, the second had low beams and Pete had bashed his head, and the third was next to a pig farm with an overpowering smell. She was sure one more disappointment would finish off Pete’s yearning to live in the country.

The door was stuck so he helped it open with his foot. “Soon sort that out,” he said cheerfully.

“You mean like the kitchen door at home that hasn’t shut properly for five years?” she tried to plant the seed of unsuitability. “And look at these walls, they’re all wonky.”

“That`s character for you,” Pete boomed. “I`ve always wanted to live in a house with character.”

Unperturbed, he marched into the lounge. “This is a fair size.”

“No it isn’t,” said Kirsty determined to be xxx | themudefordmag.co.uk

awkward despite thinking the room was spacious. “I can’t see the three piece fitting in here.”

“There’s loads of room. We could put the coffee table here, the settee against the wall and the chairs either side of the chimney.” Pete swished his arms as if moving furniture into place. He did it with the same boyish charm that had captivated her years ago. For a second she was spirited back to the heady romance of their first date. It was a wonderful feeling, but if she allowed it to continue her cause would be lost. Forcing idyllic West Street back into her mind she said indignantly, “What about the budgie?”

“There’s a dining room,” said Pete, showing her.

“I’m not putting Swoopy in there,” she objected.

“He’ll be lonely.”

“He can go in the kitchen then.” Pete opened the door. It was plenty big enough and sunny too.

“I still prefer West Street,” she stuck to her resolve despite thinking the kitchen was perfect.

“Don’t you like this cottage at all?” Pete looked dejected.

“Let’s see upstairs,” she said diplomatically, feeling sure the bedrooms would be pokey. On the landing Pete went one way and she the other.

To Kirsty’s surprise the master bedroom was spacious and had a fabulous view. She stood by the window gazing across unspoilt farmland. Quite unexpectedly, she felt happy and at home. By-theBrook had worked a spell on her.

“Bathroom needs decorating, nothing I can`t handle,” called Pete. “The second bedroom is a good size. Come and have a look. Kirst, I think we’ve found ourselves a new home. What do you think?”

“There’s someone in the garden,” she said, watching an elderly man prodding the long grass with a stick.

Pete was at her side. He opened the window and called, “Hello, have you lost something?”

“Just checking me rat traps,” the man bellowed.

“I’ll go and have a word,” Pete headed for the stairs, Kirsty followed and they hurried into the garden.

“Amor’s the name,” said the man in a broad Dorset accent. “Live next door. This place has been empty a while and them blessed rats have moved in,

before you know it they’ll be in my house, so I’ve set traps. You looking at the place with a view to buying?”

“Yes,” replied Pete.

“I suppose they told you why it’s for sale?”

“Absolutely,” nodded Pete, “Shame the owner passed away. Something like that won’t put us off.”

“Passed away!” Amor snorted. “Scared to death more like. Poor old girl started ‘earing things. Up there.” Amor pointed to the room they had just vacated. “Seeing things too. She didn’t last long after that.”

Pete put his arm protectively around Kirsty, “I think we’d finished viewing hadn’t we?”

“No,” she replied wishing Amor would shut up.

“I didn’t see the bathroom.”

“It’s quite ordinary,” Pete rushed on. “The usual: you know, bath, toilet, wash basin…”

“But I’d like to see it. If it isn’t right there won’t be any point putting in our offer.”

“Thinking of making an offer?” Amor said.

“They’re asking far too much; nobody would part with that sort of cash for a place riddled with dry rot.”

“Hadn’t spotted it,” Pete cleared his throat.

“Needs an expert eye,” Amor continued. “Sort of thing that gets missed until the survey, then you’re in too deep to want to pull out.”

“Quite,” Pete said. Turning to Kirsty he added, “That’s just about done it. I’m finished with country properties. We’ll put in an offer on West Street. It’s far and away the best of the bunch.” He gave Amor an appreciative nod.

Kirsty looked on miserably as Pete locked the door. Her sudden victory had turned into bitter disappointment. By-the-Brook had won her over completely, but Amor had swayed everything in favour of West Street.

“What’s up?” Pete homed in on her feelings.

“That man and his rat traps.”

Pete studied her for a second. “You didn’t believe all that rubbish did you? I reckon he was making it up as he went along. Dry rot in stone walls? Tell you what, Kirst, as soon as we get back to the agent let’s put in an offer.” He threw the key into the air.

Kirsty leapt to catch it and despite the fact that Pete had got his own way, By-the-Brook was within her grasp and she didn’t want to let it go. There was going to be no more losing out.

themudefordmag.co.uk | xxxi

UPCOMING EVENTS LIVE ON STAGE BOURNEMOUTH CONCERT BRASS: NEW YEAR VIENNESE CONCERT Sun 7 Jan: 15:00 Bournemouth Concert Brass return to the Regent to present a New Year Viennese Concert. Come and join us to celebrate the music of Vienna, featuring music by composers associated with this wonderful city including, of course, the Strauss family.

AN EVENING WITH JEFF STELLING Wed 17 Jan: 19:30 Join former host of Sky Sports’ iconic football show Soccer Saturday, and Sunday Times bestselling author, Jeff Stelling, for an evening of entertaining anecdotes and football fun!

THE REGENT HIGH ST, CHRISTCHURCH (01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk YOU’RE BARD! Sun 18 Feb: 19:30 Four actors. Four Shakespeare shows. Endless possibilities. You – the audience – decide everything, from the play to the performance style. Even which actor plays which part.

AN EVENING WITH SIR GEOFF HURST Thu 22 Feb: 19:30 Come and see England and West Ham United Legend Sir Geoff Hurst as he speaks on stage about his incredible football career. With compere Terry Baker in their fantastic final tour.

CINEMA HIGHLIGHTS

THE CHICAGO BLUES BROTHERS Fri 19 Jan: 19:30 The Chicago Blues Brothers have put the band back together and are ‘Cruisin for a Bluesin’ taking you to the music capitals of the USA for one night of spectacular live music.

WONKA From 26 December Based on the extraordinary character at the centre of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, “Wonka” tells the wondrous story of how the world’s greatest inventor, magician and chocolate-maker became the beloved Willy Wonka we know today.

HIGHCLIFFE CHARITY PLAYERS PRESENT: ROBIN HOOD Fri 26 – Sun 28 Jan Highcliffe Charity Players proudly presents Robin Hood, a spellbinding pantomime that will transport you into a world of enchantment and laughter!

ONE LIFE From 5 January Anthony Hopkins stars as British humanitarian Nicholas Winton, who helped save hundreds of Central European children from the Nazis on the eve of World War II

THE KAST OFF KINKS Sat 3 Feb: 19:30 The Kast off Kinks include former members of the legendary band ‘The Kinks’.

FERRARI From 12 January Set in the summer of 1957, with Enzo Ferrari’s auto empire in crisis, the ex-racer turned entrepreneur pushes himself and his drivers to the edge as they launch into the Mille Miglia, a treacherous 1,000-mile race across Italy. Starring Adam Driver.

PETE WHITTAKER: FINE LINES Thu 8 Feb: 19:30 Big wall free solo climbing remains an area of the sport that climbers and public are yet to wrap their heads around. Pete explores the art of free solo climbing taking you on a journey of where soloing started out for him, right up to his 800m big wall free solo of Kjerag in Norway.

JON COURTNEY: BIGGER Sat 17 Feb: 19:30 The winner of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent takes to the road with this brand-new show for 2024! Join Jon for his biggest show yet jampacked with the very best in music, comedy and entertainment, following a hugely successful season at the Edinburgh Festival. xxxii | themudefordmag.co.uk

GOTHIC [35MM] Sat 20 January: 20:30 Ken Russell’s richly detailed, delightfully chilling horror tale, centring around the romanticism’s poetic elite. Screening from an authentic 35mm print.

To see our upcoming film titles, please visit our website www.theregent.co.uk or pick up a film list in-person on your next visit.

All information is correct at the time of publication.

Please see our website for the latest information www.theregent.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 57

58 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 59

Loan sharks

by Dorset Council Trading Standards

Loan sharks are not always easy to spot. Illegal money lenders could be a neighbour, a parent at the school gate, even a long-standing family friend or work colleague. All will be expert manipulators. Victims often aren’t aware that they have borrowed from a loan shark until it’s too late. Many people who report loan sharks thought they were borrowing money from a friend. However, things can quickly turn nasty.

You may be dealing with a loan shark if: •

You are given no paperwork or details about the loan

•

Repayments are adding up to much more than you borrowed

•

You are intimidated if you struggle to pay

•

They demand items like bank cards or a passport until you can pay

Credit unions offer a safe way of borrowing for people who may have been refused credit elsewhere. They can offer small loans at affordable rates. Visit www. findyourcreditunion.co.uk for details.

If you think you’ve been targeted by a loan shark, visit the England Illegal Money Lending Team at www.stoploansharks.co.uk or call their 24/7 confidential hotline 0300 555 2222, or text a report to 07860 022116.

Christchurch u3a

The Epicentre, 27a High Street, Christchurch 01202 480027 Group Co-ordinator information - Groups@christchurchu3a.org.uk Over Christmas, a member of Christchurch u3a who is a group leader offered to host some people who would otherwise be on their own, in her own home on Christmas Day. The u3a really is a good society to belong to so come and join Christchurch u3a.

You could buy membership for a New Year treat to yourself, or others. Gift vouchers can be purchased at the Epicentre.

In the run up to Christmas the monthly meeting Fame, Wealth and Rock and Roll, was billed as ‘confessions of the stars and wannabees I interviewed on their way up… and down!’ by our own Michael Heatley.

To welcome the New Year on 8 January 2024, the monthly meeting ‘A Mixed Bag’ by Ian Schulz will include scams – how to recognise and hopefully avoid a variety of common scams, with examples shown; more on Google – some fun and useful features of Google that many people are not aware of and finally, some useful, fun and free apps for tablets and smart phones, with demonstrations.

Happy New Year to you all.

Paula

BURE PROBUS CLUB A well-established club for retired business men, meeting nine times a year on the 4th Wednesday of the month at Christchurch Harbour Hotel, Mudeford. Also three joint meetings to include wives and partners at South Lawn Hotel, Milford-on-Sea. Excellent food, guest speakers and social events. Details from John Sellens, secretary, via email on projectjgs@hotmail.com

60 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 61

62 | themudefordmag.co.uk

Could you help toads cross a busy road near Ringwood?

When the local toads start thinking in January about migrating to Blashford Lakes to breed and lay their eggs, the Ringwood and Poulner Toad Patrol will be helping them safely across the road.

Registered with the wildlife charity Froglife, who coordinate toad patrolling throughout the UK, the patrol is looking for new volunteers to save toads from being killed under the wheels of cars and vans and asking local drivers to help by slowing down and being patient.

Set up in 1989 and organised for 35 years by wildlife supporter Teresa Baker, the patrol is now run by Nicola Yorke – a volunteer since the 2021 season.

“It’s a great honour to have been asked by Teresa to take over our friendly, inclusive group and carry on her great work,” said Nicola.

“Common toads are declining across the UK and face huge dangers as they crawl across busy roads. We’re always looking for more willing volunteers who can spare a couple of hours one evening a week. And we’d be really grateful if more drivers slowed down and kept an eye out for toads on the short stretch of road we patrol from the North Poulner crossroads up to Rockford Common. It would make an enormous difference and many more precious lives could be saved.”

At the start of the breeding season in mid- to

late-January, male and female toads crawl from the wooded hills above Blashford Lakes to find a mate and breed. By early spring after their eggs are laid, they make the return journey, once again facing the dangers of the busy road.

“Toads only move when it’s warm enough,” said Nicola,“five degrees and above.” She said: “Wet nights are perfect but they’ll also cross when it’s not raining.

“As soon as the breeding season starts, our volunteers take turns to drive slowly along the road from dusk until 11pm, stopping to pick up toads and carry them across the road so they can safely continue their journey down to the water.”

Interested in volunteering? Email rptoadpatrol1@gmail.com

themudefordmag.co.uk | 63

64 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 65

Home Instead:

Redefining Compassionate Care through Live-In Assistance - Advertisement feature -

As a leading care company committed to enhancing lives, Home Instead takes pride in its exceptional live-in care services.

“Live-in care, a hallmark of our service offerings, is built on the foundation of respect, dignity, and an understanding of the individual,” said Greg Harrold, Director of Home Instead Southampton, Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch. “This ensures that clients receive not just assistance but a comprehensive, tailored support system that allows them to age with grace and dignity in the comfort of their own homes.”

Mr Harrold explained that one of the key strengths of Home Instead’s live-in care model lies in the continuity and familiarity it provides.

“This companionship, rooted in trust and understanding, is a powerful force that contributes to the emotional and mental wellbeing of clients,” he said.

By offering a solution that allows individuals to remain in their homes with their memories and familiar surroundings, Home Instead enhances 66 | themudefordmag.co.uk

quality of life and helps alleviate the burden on traditional healthcare systems.

“We recognise the invaluable role played by our compassionate and highly trained caregivers, who are committed to providing not just care but a lifeline of support and empathy,” said Mr Harrold.

“In celebrating the success of our live-in care services, we extend our gratitude to the families who trust us with the wellbeing of their loved ones.

“In conclusion, our live-in care services stand as a testament to our unwavering dedication to transforming the landscape of caregiving.

By providing personalised, compassionate, and empowering care, we continue to redefine the standards of excellence in the industry. Home Instead remains steadfast in its mission to make a positive impact on the lives of those we serve, one personalised care plan at a time.”

themudefordmag.co.uk | 67

News from All Saints

A message from Rev’d Kathy Hicken, soon to be Vicar of All Saint’s Church I have the great privilege of being invited to come and serve All Saints Church, as well as High Cross and St Luke’s Churches as your new vicar. I’m looking forward to the special service on 3 January when it’s all made official. I believe passionately that the church’s purpose is to be a blessing to the whole community, not just to regular church attendees, and so I am excited to see how the vibrant community of Mudeford works together for the good of everyone, and how the church plays its part in that.

Living in Mudeford feels like something of a homecoming for me, as my family lived for six years in New Milton whilst I was training for ordination. I’ve been ‘vicaring’ in the city of Southampton for the past seven years. I’m married to Richard, we have three grown up children, and a superfriendly border collie called Dexter.

At Christmastime, we give thanks for the gift of the Christ-child, and the hope and new life that He offers our beautiful but broken world. As the old year draws to a close and a new one dawns, many of us ponder the New Year resolutions we want to make. One of mine is to cultivate more of an ‘attitude of gratitude’.

I love this quote from Melody Beattie, an author who has overcome many challenges: ‘Gratitude turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend.’

You might like to take a few moments of quiet in each day to stop and look around you and be thankful, maybe as you boil the kettle for a cuppa. There are so many simple blessings in 68 | themudefordmag.co.uk

life that we can take for granted. A few moments of gratitude can change our whole perspective.

I’m so thankful for the opportunity to join the Mudeford community and I look forward to meeting you all. Do stop me to say hello if you see Dexter and me out and about. I can’t wait to hear stories about your hopes and thankfulness for 2024.

May God bless you all.

Rev’d Kathy Hicken Church Contact Maggie Raine 01425 616652

themudefordmag.co.uk | 69

70 | themudefordmag.co.uk

Detectorist returns treasures of the heart Darren Wiles might work in software, but when it comes to his hobby it’s all about the hardware.

Anyone who has seen the TV series ‘Detectorists’ by Mackenzie Crook will know the passion a metal detecting hobbyist has, and Darren is no exception.

With a Minelab Equinox 800 in his hand, he helps people find their lost items.

Being a local resident, Darren detects mainly in Bournemouth and Christchurch.

A selfless person you can turn to him when a sentimental piece of jewellery vanishes in the sand because he won’t charge a penny to help you find it, and he doesn’t give up easily.

“It’s not unusual for me to be on the beach at 4am searching for a lost ring or even the back of a handmade earring. One of those took me two-and-a-half hours to find,” he said.

On 17 September 2023 he celebrated his 199th and 200th finds within minutes of each other.

“A girl lost two rings on the beach and asked for help. After a long search I found one and suggested she went home as I wasn’t sure I could find the other.

Turn to page 72 to read on Darren's 199th find

themudefordmag.co.uk | 71

Darren's 200th find

72 | themudefordmag.co.uk

She was so happy to have one ring back, but even happier when about ten minutes later, I let her know I’d found the second one.

“There is no better feeling than handing a lost item back,” said Darren. “I absolutely love what I do.”

He’s been metal detecting for around 10 years but says it’s been busier than ever in the last six years. “I keep getting tagged on social media.”

Once tagged, he responds as soon as he can – but he doesn’t find everything.

A woman knocked over by a wave lost her wedding and engagement rings in the sea. It was particularly distressing because her husband had died six months earlier and the rings had great sentimental value.

Darren’s metal detector can search underwater and he went to the spot straight away. “The sea was so rough, the arm of the metal detector broke,” he said, but he found the wedding ring. Sadly the engagement ring couldn’t be recovered.

One of his oddest requests was to search for a bracket buried in the ground for a bird feeder pole.

And as for the most expensive items he’s found – a Rolex watch is among them. He estimates he’s recovered around £100,000 worth of jewellery in his time.

Darren runs the Bournemouth Metal Detecting Club (find it on Facebook). His advice for anyone wanting to take up the hobby is: “Minelab make a range of metal detectors in different price ranges and they also make them suitable for children.”

A family man, Darren considers himself lucky that his wife Amanda “is very understanding.”

So is a career change on the cards?

“Metal detecting is my hobby and my passion and I would never want it to become a job,” he said with such conviction, I knew he meant it.

themudefordmag.co.uk | 73

74 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 75

Vet Sophie comes clean about the Green Team at Priory What is the green team?

The Green Team at Priory is a group of colleagues who feel strongly about the environment, wanted to see what Priory’s impact on it was and how this could be improved. Vets, nurses, office and reception staff are all represented in the team.

What impact do vet practices have on the environment?

There isn’t much vet specific data. Like everyone, we have an individual impact on the environment such as when travelling to work and, as a medical business, we produce waste, as part of maintaining a high levels of sterility. Another impact from our profession is the use of topical medical products and the environmental impact of these in our waterways.

What has Priory been doing to minimise these effects?

Changes we have already made include: adding a food waste bin to the tea room, using a washing line instead of tumble drier, creating soft plastics and aluminium recycling points to reduce our landfill waste, ensuring all our energy contracts are from 100% green sources, dispensing our medications in recyclable packaging, using baby socks instead of bubble wrap on our patients’ paws to keep them warm during surgery (also

super cute), investing in software to reduce paper usage for insurance claims, changing the anaesthetic circuits to special lo-flow ones which means we use less gases (did you know a broken bottle of anaesthetic gas isoflurane has the same impact on the ozone as driving from Land’s End to John O’Groats?) and using reusable cotton scrub caps in surgery.

How do you know if it’s helping?

An organisation called Vet Sustain has produced a calculator to allow vet practices to measure their carbon output. We can use this calculator every year to track changes. We are also installing smart meters so we can track changes to our energy use.

The other aspect we can gauge is staff satisfaction – at Priory, the whole staff are onboard with the practice-wide changes we have done, and it is important for everyone’s wellbeing to feel they are contributing and enforcing a positive change.

What’s next for the green team?

Now we have got into the swing of things we are going to give ourselves bigger challenges!

We plan to look at insulation, gas and oxygen usage and energy use, continue reducing paper use in the practice, discuss with manufacturers of our consumables their packaging and lastly, we would like to create a wildflower area in our back garden.

01202 484466 | office@prioryvetgroup.com | www.prioryvetgroup.com Priory Vet Group, 59 Purewell, Christchurch, Dorset. BH23 1EN 76 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 77

78 | themudefordmag.co.uk

themudefordmag.co.uk | 79