4Dorset March 2017

FREE

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

MEN ON

March 2017 Volume 14 Issue 8

AVON CAUSEWAY

Your Independent Local Magazine

4DORSET

THE MARCH

Broadstone Christchurch Colehill | Ferndown Merley | West Parley Wimborne Ashley Heath | Bournemouth Canford Heath | Kinson Poole | Ringwood | St Ives Three Legged Cross Verwood | West Moors

REVIEWED

Olly

MOBILE PHONE CRACKDOWN

– SHOCKING RESULTS

Murs names special guest at his

Bournemouth open air concert

this summer

UPDATE ON ASSISTANCE DOG

Magsie

Competition

£100 WORTH OF

STEWARTS VOCHERS 9TH CREATIVE WRITING AWARDS £150 TOP PRIZE

extravaganza

TICKETS TO SYD LAWRENCE AT THE REGENT

TICKETS TO ‘ALL SHOOK UP’ AT THE BARRINGTON

FRANCESCO GROUP – £10 OFF VOUCHERS

TICKETS TO BEAULIEU THIS EASTER

2 |

4DORSET March 2017

4DORSET Volume 14 • Issue 8 • March 2017

MAGS4DORSET

Ben Pulford managing director design@mags4dorset.co.uk Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

NEWS DESK 01202 872813 Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Carol Waterkeyn contributing editor

DESIGN 01202 233441 Louis Pulford design director louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Adam Trimby graphic designer designstudio@mags4dorset.co.uk

ADVERTISING 01202 816140 Mark Beechey account manager DD: 01202 941465 mark@mags4dorset.co.uk Russell Harness account manager DD: 01202 941466 russell@mags4dorset.co.uk

HelloEveryone,

I’m not going to harp on about our family’s health and recent dealings with various hospitals. In the last few weeks, I could have written a book on the subject.

Instead, I will tell you about the birds and the bees.

Bees are becoming scarce. Not enough is being done about their decline. We rely on bees to pollinate our crops and flowers. Where would we be without bees? Some say we wouldn’t be here at all.

I was contacted by Totty, a local beekeeper who has inspired me to find out more and I am going to help her in her aim to give the whole of Dorset some Bee Love. This will start in 4Dorset next month.

Now on to birds. How is your dawn chorus? I used to wake up to the deafening sound of birds singing their hearts out. These days I have to listen hard to hear one blackbird and a handful of sparrows.

I can think of a few reasons for this: I am going deaf, my double-glazing is very efficient, bird flu is taking its toll.

I really hope bird flu isn’t the reason. But despite the Defra curbs on poultry being lifted on 28 February, biosecurity measures are still in force in high-risk areas.

When I checked Defra’s interactive map, these areas included Poole, Bournemouth, Ferndown, Ringwood, Fordingbridge and Christchurch, so sadly, bird flu may be taking its toll, (doesn’t seem to affect seagulls though).

How to contact us

Enquiries: 01202 870270 Advertising: 01202 816140 Brightbox Designs: 01202 233441 Email: mags@mags4dorset.co.uk Web: www.mags4dorset.co.uk Twitter: @mags4dorset Facebook: mags4dorset.news 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN

next copy closing date:

17 MARCH 2017 The Editor reserves the right to amend or shorten contributions in order to fit in with the editorial policy and style of the magazine

Janine Pulford Editor

4Dorset is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. It is also available by subscription at £35 per year. Views or opinions expressed in 4Dorset are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with 4Dorset and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher.

Picture of the month: ‘My favourite TV show is Neighbours, what’s yours?’

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

|

3

End of days for HSBC Ferndown HSBC will be closing its Ferndown branch on Friday 12 May. The decision is part of a wider HSBC announcement to close

62 branches by the end of the year.

Eighty-six-year-old Mary from Ferndown, who has banked with the branch

since 1974 said she was shocked to hear the news on television. She visited the branch the following day to find out what her options were for future banking with HSBC when the branch closes.

HSBC has announced

it has a partnership with the Post Office so customers can continue to carry out their day-to-day banking in all 11,600 post office locations in the country.

Ferndown Post Office on 3 Pennys Walk will enable customers to continue to carry out their day-to-day banking in the town.

Mary at the Ferndown branch

Volunteer befrienders needed Can you spare an hour or two each week?

Volunteers are needed in the Poole area to provide support through friendship to local people who are feeling lonely and isolated.

There is currently a waiting list of people in Poole who have asked for a befriending match, however more volunteer befrienders are needed to respond to this need.

Two local organisations, the Dorset charity Prama and Poole Well-Being Collaborative have teamed up to recruit, train and support befrienders in response to this need. They will match them with local people who

4 |

4DORSET March 2017

have asked for and would benefit from this support.

Katrina Keeling of Prama said, “Having friends to look out for you and people to socialise with is so important for your quality of life and wellbeing. We would like to provide more befriending matches but to do this we do need more volunteers.

“My own experience of befriending was really wonderful. I was working when I became a befriender to an elderly lady and I used to visit her once a week for a chat and a cup of tea. I didn’t know many people outside

my own age group and it was lovely to have this friendship with someone I wouldn’t normally meet. Being a volunteer befriender opened up a new world for me.”

Prama and the Poole Well-Being Collaborative will give full training and support. All volunteers have to have a DBS check prior to being matched.

If you are interested in a befriender or finding more about the service, please contact either Bridget from Prama on 01202 666195 or Judith from Poole WellBeing Collaborative on 01202 977073.

Jailed for sexually abusing teenage boy

David Jonathan Everett

A Bournemouth man has been jailed for six years and eight months for sexually abusing a teenage boy.

David Jonathan Everett, 57, was jailed at Bournemouth Crown Court on 26 January after pleading guilty at the same court on 3 January to six counts of indecent assault on a boy aged under 16. The incidents occurred in the Christchurch area in the early-2000s.

The court heard that Everett was a member and conductor of the Priory Church Choir in Christchurch and met his

victim via his connections with the church.

Detective Constable Adrian Stocker, of Dorset Police’s Child Abuse Investigation Team, said, “David Everett abused the position he held in the church to take advantage of his victim.

“I would like to praise Everett’s victim for finding the courage to come forward and report the offences.

“We take incidents of non-recent sexual abuse extremely seriously and I would urge anyone with any concerns to please contact Dorset Police.”

Man shot Terrifying ordeal for in leg with woman in her 80s air rifle Police are appealing for witnesses after a man was shot in the leg with an air rifle as he walked along Rossmore Road in Poole near the junction with Brixey Road. The 23-yearold local man was walking in the direction of the Coop at around 5.20pm on Monday 30 January, when a black Ford Fiesta with heavily tinted windows drove past in the opposite direction. The vehicle slowed down, made a U-turn and an air rifle appeared through one of the windows. A shot was fired and hit the victim on the back of the leg. The car drove off.

The victim made his own way to Poole Hospital for treatment.

A Christchurch woman in her 80s suffered a terrifying ordeal after answering a knock on her front door at around 9.30pm on Wednesday, 1 February.

When she opened the door, she was confronted by a man and a woman wearing scarves over their faces. They forced themselves into her home, tied her to a chair with cable ties and stole cash and jewellery before leaving.

The victim managed to free herself and contact the police. She suffered bruising.

The incident happened in the Oak Avenue area of Christchurch. If you saw anything, or have any information call Dorset Police on 101, quoting 55170016288. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

Did you see anything of this incident or know anything about it? If so, please call 101, quoting 55170015087 or call Crimestoppers anonymously 0800 555111

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

|

5

Free concert at Ferndown’s Barrington Theatre raises £1,600 With the Barrington Centre firmly on the road to success following its shock closure and rescue within a week by its local community and major local charity Prama, a fundraising concert on 4 February proved Ferndown’s determination to keep the heart of its community beating

Amie Knight

Like a phoenix, the Barrington Centre in Ferndown has risen from the ashes.

L-r Compere David Fitzgerald, Jenny Oag and Steve Robinson, CEO Prama

Its first fundraising concert since it reopened made a healthy £1,600.

Giving their time for free, a host of local performers gathered to provide a great night of entertainment. Entry was free, with donations being made on the door and

6 |

4DORSET March 2017

there was a raffle.

The general manager Andy Bryant said, “We are overwhelmed by the fantastic support our community is showing us, demonstrating how important the Barrington is to Ferndown.

“It was a truly brilliant

night and the calibre of local Ferndown artists always amazes me.

In a very short period of time the fundraiser was put together and we would especially like to thank Jenny Oag for her amazing efforts.”

Jenny added that there were so many acts that wanted to support the fundraiser, she had to turn some away. “We didn’t have the time, so hopefully

at the next one, we can the Ferndown Community fit them in,” she Association. The said. public came to Andy said the ailing centre’s ...all donations rescue after a there had been some generous crowdfunding will be ringcash donations page was set up fenced and from individuals and donations used for the and the local and pledges purpose they businesses in poured in. In two the town adding, days the FCA were given in “We had so had received over securing the many donations £15,000 to help future for the for prizes for the pay off debts. centre. raffle that we’d And it didn’t have to mention stop there. The nearly every public’s show of business in town, desire to save but a special mention goes the heart of its community to Motabitz for the donation resulted in a major local of a mountain bike. charity, Prama, stepping “With the raffles and up to offer financial support the donations combined to the FCA to take the on the evening we received Barrington Centre forward. over £1,000 and we also Prama has agreed to took another £600 over the underwrite the operating bar. costs of the centre and “All-in-all an extremely retain the staff. brilliant result and we are Steve Robinson, Chief so grateful as this money Executive of Prama said, goes to helping ensure ”I am delighted that, as a the future of the Centre local charity itself, Prama and everything that goes is able to be a part of the on here for the Ferndown community of Ferndown Community. and facilitate this wonderful “Thank you to everyone centre’s future. I would like who came along on to assure everybody who the night and to all of has made a donation or Ferndown for the support supported the Barrington and donations.”

Centre through this difficult Just a fortnight earlier, time, that all donations will the venue was closed, be ring-fenced and used due to the insolvency of for the purpose they were

Brother Grimmers

“

Terry Holbert, President of FCA with the mountain bike raffle prize

given in securing the future for the centre.”

The fundraising concert on 4 February presented a good opportunity for Steve Robinson to take the stage and say a few words introducing himself and his charity to the audience. mags4dorset, publishers of 4Dorset and Viewpoint has donated £1,000 to the Barrington Centre and also covers all the design and printing costs of the Barrington Magazine, as it has done since the magazine was first published.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

|

7

“

TITION

COM P E

Mia Dellicompagni, Francesco Group’s Director of Hairdressing who is based in the Poole academy and oversees the Southern salons.

NEED A NEW HAIRSTYLE? Here’s your chance to win

£10 OFF at

Francesco Group salons in the South

O

ne of the largest, awardwinning hairdressing groups in the UK has teamed up with mags4dorset to give away six £10 discount vouchers* redeemable at any of their salons in the south.

Francesco Group salons can be found in Ferndown, Christchurch, Ringwood, Poole, Bournemouth, Winton and Westbourne.

Run by Italian family, The Dellicompagnis, the brand is stylish, luxurious and unique.

Francesco Group is known for beautifully crafted hair and when visiting a salon, you will not only leave looking and feeling fantastic, but also with advice and tips on how to maintain your hairstyle at home.

The Francesco Group experience is couture hairstyles personalised for you; with selected haircuts and colours to create your perfect tailormade look. Each visit to a Francesco Group hairdresser is pure pampering, with in-depth consultations, indulgent head massages and complimentary refreshments to ensure you leave the salon feeling relaxed and fabulous!

To be in with a chance of winning a £10 off voucher, answer the following question: Which Italian family runs the Francesco Group?

Enter online at www.mags4dorset.co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to Francesco competition, mags4dorset, 1st Floor King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9EN. The first correct answer drawn after the closing date will be the winner.

Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd and Francesco Group and their relatives are not permitted to enter. Closing date is 24 March 2017. The editor’s decision is final. * Terms and conditions: - Entrants must be aged 18 and over.

- One entry per person.

- The prize cannot be exchanged for cash, or replaced if lost or damaged.

- Winners will be chosen at random from all correct entries.

- Prize valid until August 2017

8 |

4DORSET March 2017

Former Mayor of Providing the answers to your legal questions Wimborne under investigation

LAW SPOT

OPTIONS FOR LAND

By Simon Nethercott, Commercial Solicitor, Harold G Walker

Q: I have a piece of garden that I don’t need. A developer, who might buy it, has given me an Option to sign. What is this and should I sign it?

A: The simple answer is don’t sign any such agreement without seeking specialist legal advice. An Option, as its name suggests, gives the developer an option to buy the land at a given price and within a given period. Almost invariably, they will wish to obtain planning consent before being committed and you will need to establish exactly how long they will have to do so. Except in rare cases, the creation of an Option

will prevent you selling the property or re-mortgaging. In a falling market, there is also the possibility that the developer will endeavour to re-negotiate the price at the last minute.

It may be preferable for you that the developer enters into a contract, conditional upon it getting the planning consent it requires. This is often better for a seller as it means the developer has to buy at the agreed price if the right planning permission is

New Partners at law firm

Simon Nethercott

obtained. There is no room for re-negotiation on price.

Where part of the garden is being sold, it is also important at the outset to establish the terms of any ultimate transfer deed to cover rights for the passage of services and any required covenants.

There is a lot to consider and thus a specialist solicitor should be consulted immediately you are approached.

Cath Porter and Gaynor Cooke became Partners of Harold G Walker in January 2017, marking the continuous growth and expansion of the firm’s legal practice. Cath specialises in all elements of family and matrimonial law and Gaynor has almost 20 years’ experience in dealing with all aspects of lifetime planning. Both are based at the Broadstone office.

10 |

4DORSET March 2017

Wimborne’s former Mayor Andy Hampton, who served two terms between 2013–15, is being investigated by Dorset Trading Standards over allegations relating to his business affairs.

The investigations relate to his dealings through Morgan Hampton Estate Agents, which was in Wimborne’s High Street, but which is now closed.

Dorset County Council’s Trading Standards service manager, Ivan Hancock, told 4Dorset, “We have been contacted by some customers of the estate agents. We are in contact with Dorset Police on the subject of allegations concerning Morgan Hampton estate agents in Wimborne.

The main allegations involve the theft of customers’ deposits. As with any theft allegations these should be reported to Dorset Police. With a breach of contract or with other problems that consumers have experienced or are worried about, involving services or goods sold by this or other businesses, they can call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 04 05 06. This is the first point of contact for consumer advice or to report a matter to Trading Standards.”

Because of the ongoing investigation, Trading Standards could not comment further.

FERNDOWN

news

DON’T LET FERNDOWN Sarah Farmer joins Rotary IN BLOOM WILT a club for all seasons

Have you got bags of energy and enthusiasm? Would you like to share it with Ferndown in Bloom? A call has gone out from the committee for a new chairman to help take the much-loved gardening competition forward.

Although it enjoyed huge success in 2016, a recent change of committee at the AGM has left the organisation three ‘bloomers’ short giving the remaining members no option but to prune the competition back and run a limited edition. Secretary Shirley Cowan said, “Sadly the majority of classes will have to be cut this year, unless a new chairman comes forward rather quickly.”

If you would like to help grow Ferndown in Bloom back to its former glory, email ferndowninbloom@gmail.com

Sarah Farmer

Broadcast journalist and BBC weather presenter Sarah Farmer has joined the Rotary Club of Ferndown as an honorary member.

Sarah first worked with Rotary on the Dorset and Hampshire Police Awards in 2015. She showed keen interest in supporting others through such charities as Children in Need, helping to raise millions of pounds.

Living in North Bournemouth with her husband and two children, Sarah is a keen supporter

RBL National Chairman takes away piece of local history

Author Ian Dale (right) and Grant Parrott (left) present the book to Mr Terry Whittles (centre)

A copy of ‘Beyond Bravery, the story of Ferndown’s Fallen in two World Wars’ was presented to national chairman and guest of honour, Terry Whittles, at the Royal British Legion (RBL) conference in January.

Written by local author

and RBL Dorset county treasurer Ian Dale, the book gives the personal and military histories of all the Ferndown servicemen who gave their lives in the two conflicts.

Ferndown branch chairman Grant Parrott

of the local community.

Besides her work with the BBC, she also lectures in journalism at the University of Bournemouth.

She started out as an assistant programme editor with ITV but switched to the other side of the camera with the BBC where she has to vary her carefully crafted broadcasts in real time as editors either cut or extend her time according to need.

Ferndown Rotary members were delighted to welcome her.

said, “It was an honour to welcome the national chairman to Dorset and we wanted him to be able to take away a piece of local history to remember his visit and the part played by the people of Dorset.”

School celebrates UNICEF’s highest award Ferndown Middle School has achieved UNICEF’s highest award for Rights Respecting Schools (RRS). The Level 2 award is granted to schools that have fully embedded children’s rights in their policies, practice and ethos. Among the outcomes met by Ferndown Middle School to attain the award is that students see themselves as rights-respecting global citizens and are advocates for social justice, fairness and children’s rights at home and abroad.

12 |

4DORSET March 2017

Safe space offers employment and self-employment support A new centre has just been opened in Pokesdown by Mayor of Bournemouth Cllr Eddie Coope, for people with barriers to work including disability, long-term unemployment and also single parents.

The centre, on the main Christchurch Road, offers training and support to improve confidence with the skills needed for work

and self-employment. The centre will offer sessions on a one-to-one or group basis, depending on the person’s needs.

Sam Everard, CEO of Samee, took the idea to the Trustees after listening to job seekers she had met during her career.

“Not having a job should not stop you looking for opportunities,”

said Sam, “In fact, it should encourage you to look at yourself and see what skills and talents you have that you can develop.

A lot of the people we work with are making things and could use their hobbies to supplement their income.

“We have opened this centre, the only one in the area, to encourage

people to talk to us and bring independence back to their lives. There are no barriers to the work we do as we understand how hard it is to make that change and move on.”

After the initial agreement from the trustees, Sam spoke to

unLtd, Big Lottery, The Cherries Community Fund at AFC Bournemouth and other funders for support.

Thanks to their generosity and vision, the centre has now been built and is already being used by local unemployed people and others.

Poole Museum honours the sacrifice of the Great War Poole Museum has been granted £50,600 by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) to launch a project on Poole, the First World War and its enduring legacy.

The project will see the creation of a brand new website, which will provide resources on how the war affected all involved; from those who fought, and made munitions in the factories, to the nursed soldiers and fishing boat crews. The resources will touch upon all those in Poole.

The website will also chart the nature of post-war Poole, with stories from those who mourned the 1,000 Poole men who fell, the tales of returning servicemen, and memories of the women who had supported the war effort, but found they were no longer required at the end of the period.

With support from volunteers, community partners including local schools, and local residents, the new website will be available for use

from Spring 2017.

Members of the public have already started to take in mementos of the war.

More information about Poole’s First World War project can be obtained from Poole History Centre.

Call 01202 262621, or email localhistory@poole. gov.uk

Calling runners for the Easter Quarter Marathon Bournemouth’s East Cliff Rotary Club is making a first call for runners for this year’s Quarter Marathon.

Held on Easter Saturday, it will take place on 15 April.

14 |

4DORSET March 2017

The Rotary Club says it’s a very popular race and it aims to attract a field of some 400 runners across all categories. Entries from teams are very welcome.

Participants often use the event as an opportunity to raise money in support of their own charitable interests.

The race starts and finishes on the promenade adjacent to Boscombe Pier, taking in the length of the promenade towards Hengistbury Head and returning in a loop via Overcliff Drive.

The Quarter Marathon is open to all runners. Further

details and applications can be obtained via the Bournemouth East Cliff Rotary Club website or through Runnersworld, EventBrite or Run Britain.

More details can be obtained from Keith Loveless on 07768 197095 or Peter Jones on 07746 826872.

The Rotary Club uses this event as its own major fundraising initiative for the year and this year will be supporting the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Bournemouth Hospital and the Narayan Devi School in Nepal, one of the schools totally destroyed in the earthquake in Nepal in 2015.

Another Barrington

FUNDRAISER Man dedicates Antarctic half marathon victory to friends who inspired him Local man Lee Thomas, 32 from Poole, has set a world record by running a half marathon in Antarctica in the fastest time.

Lee, who is working in the Antarctic for ten weeks with TXI and KSAT, ran the Polar Night Run held in Tromso recently, which saw 1,800 people running on blue ice. To be able to run, Lee and the other runners had to screw their trainers into a studded base. For Lee, this was the first time he had ever competed in a half marathon, let alone on ice!

Alongside Lee was friend Ken Pedersen. Both had arrived two days prior to the race, and therefore only had a few days to train. Other runners in the marathon had been training in the icy and cold conditions, with altitude of 1,200 metres, for a lot longer.

Lee said, “I started the race by pacing myself against the other runners and after about 5k broke away from the group. I planned to get as far ahead as possible, but never did I imagine I would win and beat a record. I would have just been happy to take part, finish the race and experience running in very different conditions than we have at home.”

Lee said when his legs

If you missed the first one, another Barrington fundraiser will be held on 11 March, 7pm until 10.30pm. The 11 acts will include singing, dancing, an aerial show from Polz Apart and a balloon show by Damian Jay. Compere will be Chris Daines.

Singers include Jenny House, Tanya Miller, Jenny Oag, Hannah Gough, Victoria Allen, Nicole Mcnally, Jasmine & Jai-li’s Moore and Molly Poole.

Free entry, with donations on the door.

Funds raised will go towards the Barrington Centre.

started to cramp up, “I just started thinking about two friends of mine – Shane Stanley and Matthew Jones. Sadly, both have passed and were very good friends of mine and loved by the local Poole community. These guys would never run out of steam when playing footie, so I asked them for help as I was running the race. I got emotional just thinking about them but remembering that these guys never gave up, pushed me through until I crossed the finish line.”

Lee successfully won the half marathon by 7.48 seconds against another eight competitors in his category and set the course record. He said: “I won because of Shane and Matty so I dedicate the victory and the record to these two champions.”

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 15

in health & fitness

If you are in any doubt about your health, you must contact your GP. 4Dorset is not responsible or liable for damages which may result from your use or misuse of the information in this health section.

Cancer knows no borders Cancer is a vile disease that shatters families and destroys lives. If we are to tackle it, we all need to work together, sharing expertise, research and funding. This is the message from Cancer Research UK as they and fellow cancer charities prepared for World Cancer Day on 4 February, last month.

As a member of the MEPs Against Cancer Group, Ashley Fox, MEP for the South West of England & Gibraltar, and Leader of the Conservatives in the European Parliament, is a firm supporter of this need for a joined up approach and is a signatory to the joint statement for World Cancer Day. He said, “I want the EU to prioritise the tackling of cancer in their research programmes and ensure that academics are able to travel and communicate freely across the whole of Europe.

“As Britain prepares for Brexit, we know that we will be leaving the EU

but that doesn’t mean that we should seek to pull up the drawbridge and cast ourselves adrift entirely,” comments Mr Fox. “There is a real benefit to research in vital areas, like the fight against cancer, by taking a coordinated approach with our European neighbours.

“Non-EU countries already participate in Horizon 2020, Europe’s research programme, and I would hope that Britain would also seek a similar arrangement and continue a joined-up approach in combatting the disease.”

More information on the World Cancer Day Statement by Cancer Research UK can be found on their website www. cancerresearchuk.org.

Ashley Fox MEP with Catherine Guinard, EU Public Affairs Manager, Cancer Research UK

Lyn Mitcham

TAKE BACK CONTROL OF YOUR

EATING HABITS

by Lynn Mitcham Do you finish a meal and realise you barely tasted it? Do you eat while watching TV, reading or surfing the web? Do you feel guilty about how much you eat, and constantly try to be ‘good’ with food? Do you eat because you are bored, or upset? If so, you are eating mindlessly, rather than mindfully. Mindless eating can lead to health and weight problems, as well as more severe symptoms such as anorexia, bulimia or binge eating.

Our society has created a dysfunctional relationship with one of the most basic things in our lives – food. Food is a physical need, a fuel that we need for energy and all those things that keep us healthy. However, food can become an emotional crutch, a habit, or addiction. We need to reset our eating habits by being mindful about how we feed our bodies. Mindful eating not only makes us think about when and how much we eat, but also encourages a healthier attitude towards food.

MINDFUL NUTRITION

Mindfulness is the art of being present in the mind. The NHS website describes it as an ‘evidence-based step’ for better mental health. It says, ‘Paying more attention to the present moment – to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you – can improve your mental wellbeing’. Mindful nutrition is being aware of the food that we use as fuel. It is knowing how everything that we eat acts when it is in our bodies. We learn to appreciate how food looks, feels and smells. We then learn to really taste food. We start to make better choices because we know that we will, without a doubt, become what we eat.

16 |

4DORSET March 2017

If you are in any doubt about your health, you must contact your GP. 4Dorset is not responsible or liable for damages which may result from your use or misuse of the information in this health section.

THE WESTERN DIET

Our high-fat, high-sugar diet works against our own physical and mental health. Some of the foods we eat regularly are saturated fats. These tend to be solid at room temperature, and can be found in processed and fatty meat, hard cheeses, whole milk and cream, butter, lard, suet, palm oil and coconut oil. Saturated fat raises cholesterol levels and can cause heart attacks, stroke, mood disorders, addiction, as well as overeating.

We also consume stimulants such as chocolate, sugar and caffeine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that activates the pleasure centres in our brain, and these stimulants increase the dopamine levels temporarily, making us feel good.

Caffeine is not only in tea and coffee, but also in energy drinks/tablets. Caffeine increases dopamine levels, and injects adrenaline into the system. Adrenaline is part of the body’s natural ‘fight or flight’ response to danger. Once it wears off, you feel tired, lethargic and depressed. Chocolate also contains caffeine and an additional stimulant called theobromine. The darker the chocolate, the bigger the boost it gives. As with all things, there is also conflicting research that says some coffee, and small quantities of dark chocolate can actually be beneficial to health.

Refined sugar can lead to diabetes and other illnesses, and is linked to stress. Being a stimulant, sugar produces an unnatural ‘high’, followed by a drop in energy which can be described as a ‘low’. By eating more sugar, we start the whole process again. These blood sugar highs and lows directly affect our mood and behaviour, and explain why sugar is so addictive – our body craves that ‘high’.

in health and fitness

TO ADVERTISE IN 4DORSET Call 01202 816140

BASIC NUTRITION FOR HEALTH

Good nutrition is actually very easy to learn, and mindful nutrition is the act of putting basic nutrition into action in order to keep yourself healthy.

Fats we consume should mainly come from plant oils and seeds. Flax seeds, hemp, nuts and seed oils provide all of the fat that our body needs. Fish is OK, but avoid fried, processed foods and saturated fats.

Protein provides the body with amino acids essential for growth and repair. Plants can provide all the protein we need and plant proteins include Quinoa, pulses and nuts. If you eat fish, meat or eggs, then buy organic.

Complex carbohydrates are the foods that keep you fuller for longer, and spread energy levels throughout the day. These are wholegrain bread, rice and pasta, which release energy slowly and maintain both your mood and energy levels.

A variety of fruits and vegetables will keep the body and mind healthy. Fresh, colourful and leafy green foods provide the body with essential vitamins, minerals and enzymes, which are said to be anti-ageing and provide vast benefits for health and well-being.

MINDFUL EATING IN PRACTICE

The following mindful eating practice will help to develop new habits in your relationship with food.

Be thankful for the wide range of foods available to us. When you look at food with your eyes and your mind, it gives you a chance to take stock. Do I really want this?

Is this going to be good for me? Focus completely on the food and it’s texture. Smell the food; a lot of the flavour starts with the smell. Then, notice how it feels in your mouth. Does it snap or break when you bite it or does it become mushy quickly? What is the flavour?

Try to hold each mouthful, exploring the taste and texture. This also lets your saliva get to work to start the digestive process. Then swallow, and repeat the process.

Gradually, by adding knowledge and mindful eating together, we become informed about what specific foods do within our body and we start to associate a food with the feeling that it triggers in our body. This will lead us naturally to make healthier choices.

Lynn is a Hypnotherapist and Counsellor, working in Bournemouth and Wimborne and a member of the National Hypnotherapy Society, the General Hypnotherapy Register, the National Counselling Society, and the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council. For further information or for details about the Mindful Weight Control programme running from March, or for a free, confidential consultation, contact her on 01202 979107 or email lynn@sylvan-therapies.co.uk Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 17

in health & fitness

Government agrees more needs to be done for Post Polio Syndrome On 7 February, the Government agreed that more needs to be done for the 120,000 people in the UK living with Post Polio Syndrome (PPS). This is a neurological condition, which can occur in up to 80% of those who have had polio.

Rehman Chishti MP raised the topic of PPS in Health Questions in the House of Commons, as part of his new role as Parliamentary Ambassador for national charity The British Polio Fellowship.

Rehman started by asking the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Health, David Mowat, what steps his department are taking to support people with PPS; David’s response was

that the NHS focuses on structured selfmanagement, pain relief, and increasing referrals to both physio and occupational therapy. He did go on to say, however that, “awareness of the condition is not as high as it could be,” and that more needs to be done with the work of The British Polio Fellowship on GP education, training and information.

Rehman also informed the House of Commons that low awareness of PPS among GPs and the NHS more generally, is leaving patients living with the condition waiting up to six years for a diagnosis. David meanwhile confirmed to those present that The British Polio Fellowship had developed guidelines, Post Polio Syndrome: A guide to management for health care professionals, that everyone needs to use to build GP awareness.

Ted Hill MBE, CEO of The British Polio Fellowship says, “I was delighted to see the response of the Government on the issue of PPS. To know we have such backing can only be good news as we look for the breakthrough in getting the word out there.

I’m immensely grateful to Rehman for his amazing efforts so far as our new Parliamentary Ambassador, and look forward to working with him on our Parliamentary strategy.”

To find out more about The British Polio Fellowship and to learn about the late effects of polio and Post Polio Syndrome visit www. britishpolio.org.uk

RBH’s Stroke Unit launches patient and family forums The Royal Bournemouth Hospital’s (RBH’s) Stroke Unit is inviting current and former patients and their families to share their experiences in a friendly and informal environment.

Monthly forums take place in the unit, giving patients the opportunity to meet others at different stages of recovery, speak to members of the Stroke Team and find out what support is available in the community.

Representatives from the Stroke Association and Different Strokes charities are also on hand to give information and advice.

Nikki Manns, sister on the unit, said, “Having a stroke can have a significant impact on patients and their families and we know it isn’t easy when you leave hospital to be back in the community, perhaps go back to work and to start to rebuild your social life.”

The RBH Stroke Unit sees around 750 patients every year, with patients on average staying in hospital for 14 days. Feedback from the forums will be used to help shape the stroke service in the future.

The first event took place in early February.

Future forums will be held on 7 March, 4 April, 2 May, and 6 June from 1.30-3.30pm in the Day Room, and refreshments will be provided.

If you would like to attend, please contact Tanya Davies on 01202 704504 or email tanya.davies@rbch. nhs.uk.

- advertising feature -

Merriefield Podiatry now offers a cosmetic procedure for fungal or unsightly nails

18 |

4DORSET March 2017

BEFORE

AFTER

Are you embarrassed about the appearance of your nails? Are you worried about wearing open-toed sandals in the summer? WildePedique was developed specifically for corrective and restorative nail treatments. It is a gel resin, which has the ability to bond to a nail to add strength but at the same time, is flexible and able to adapt to the movements of the toe.

The nail bed is prepared for the application of the gel, removing any fungus, ridges and deformities. The gel is built up in layers and cured under an LED light. The gel will conceal any discolouration and will essentially look like a normal nail.

The new nail will last approximately 6 weeks depending

on the underlying conditions. The result will be a normal looking nail, but it can also be varnished using standard nail polish, which can then be removed in the standard way without damage to your new nail.

Toenail reconstruction takes approximately one hour and the procedure is pain free. The gel is not a cure for fungus but provides an instant visual improvement; an ideal solution for clients seeking a cosmetically pleasing look.

For further information please call Merriefield Podiatry Foot Clinic on 01202 855872

in health and fitness - advertising feature -

Making it count Ferndown Leisure has a fantastic offer this month to help you stay on track with your fitness goals. The centre is offering three months All-inclusive membership for £99, which gives full membership benefits, including unlimited use of the gym, swimming pool and exercise classes, SWIMTAG, and the PlacesLocker app. To help each member make the most of their visits, they are invited to take ‘Your Journey’ – a series of one-to-one appointments with a qualified fitness instructor, who will explain how to use the pieces of equipment correctly and safely; discuss fitness goals; and devise a personalised programme to follow. This offer is also available on their swim membership for £60, which includes Just Swim sessions, and instructor-led Fitness Swim sessions, plus use of SWIMTAG, and the PlacesLocker app.

See your results

SWIMTAG is a wristband that enables you to monitor your lengths, total distance, swim stroke, and speed and see how many calories you burn. As well as making swimming more fun, this helps you stay motivated.

New PlacesLocker app

Trust announces programme of health talks for 2017 The Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has organised four free public talks this year as part of their ‘Understanding Health’ series.

The first talk is ‘Understanding Asthma’ and will take place on Monday 6 March at 11am at the Village Hotel, opposite the Royal Bournemouth Hospital. The session will be led by one of the Trust’s leading respiratory experts, Dr Sahantha DeSilva, consultant physician.

The following talks will also take place at the Village Hotel at 11am. The subjects and dates are: • • •

Make every move count with our app that let’s you: • Book your classes: book and check the availability of your favourite classes and courts – all on the move.

• Measure your moves: moves are a measure of your daily physical activity. The more often and faster you move, the more you accumulate.

• Pair outdoor apps and wearables: bring together your centre activities with your outdoor activities to build moves. PlacesLocker will synchronise with Apple Health, Swimtag, Strava, MapmyRun and Garmin as well as working with popular wearables such as Fitbit.

• Compete in challenges: with regular challenges available, you can compete with other PlacesLocker users.

• View the extensive exercise library: with over 2000 different exercises, PlacesLocker knows the equipment available at Ferndown Leisure Centre, and will tailor your workout to suit.

Friday 23 June: ‘Understanding Back Pain’ with James Beck, clinical specialist in Back Pain and Matt Low, clinical lead physiotherapist.

Monday 11 September: ‘Understanding Stroke’ with Dr Becky Jupp, consultant stroke physician.

Monday 4 December: ‘Understanding End of Life Care’ with gastroenterologist and associate medical director, Dr Sean Weaver and Dr Ros Pugh, consultant in palliative medicine.

These free health presentations are open to all but are popular, so booking is essential. To book your place, please phone 01202 704394 or email communications@rbch.nhs.uk.

To find out more contact the customer advisors on 01202 877468, email deanadudman@pfpleisure.org or visit www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 19

in with pets

GIRLING HORSE-WELFARE REPORT CLEARS FIRST HURDLE “We are on our way to a better deal for donkeys and horses. Cruelty and neglect is a problem across the continent and we must tackle it,” said British MEP Julie Girling, as her report setting out steps to halt the abuse and cruel exploitation of horses and donkeys, was approved by the Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee of the European Parliament.

The report from Mrs Girling, Conservative MEP for the South West and Gibraltar, sets out to stop the abuse of horses across Europe and ensure their welfare is catered for, whether they are used in farming or sport, for breeding or in tourism and entertainment.

Measures include: • Comprehensive guides on horse and donkey care, including responsible breeding and end of life care.

• Better information for tourists on how animals are treated by attractions such as rides and sideshows.

• Increased inspections of farms.

• A pilot project awarding funding to farms committed to good welfare practices.

• A shorter maximum journey time for all movements of horses for slaughter.

“Horses and humans have been best friends for thousands of years,” said Mrs Girling.

“Responsible ownership and care of horses should always be expected as a minimum but given the number of health and welfare problems faced by Europe’s horses and donkeys today, it is clear that it is too often neglected. Action is therefore not only necessary, but also overdue.

“This is an important first step to ensuring fully that welfare is sufficiently upheld. The report does seek additional legislation. I want to improve and strengthen the rules that already exist and to tackle ignorance through putting together guidance based on best practice across Europe.

“It is in everyone’s interest for the animals involved in these businesses to be healthy and productive. Many of the measures I propose are simple to introduce but would make a big difference to both the welfare of equines and their economic potential.

It is a win-win for all involved.”

The EU equine sector is worth more than £80 billion a year and the equestrian sports industry alone supports 900,000 jobs, often in rural areas.

It is expected that the report will be considered by a full session of the European Parliament in March. If approved, it will be passed to the European Commission with a recommendation for action.

ASK THE VET Q: My dog has smelly breath! What can I do?

A: Unfortunately, that nasty smell is due to bacteria and is a sign that things aren’t as they should be.

Most of the time, the offending bacteria are in the mouth. If you can, look at your dog’s teeth. Are they pearly white or is there a yellowish coating? Look at the gum as it curves over the teeth – is it nice and pink or is there a swollen, darker, redder line along the tooth edge? If so, a dental check is recommended.

Periodontal disease is an inflammatory condition that affects the soft and hard structures that support the teeth. In its early stage, called gingivitis, the gums become swollen and red due to inflammation, which is the body’s natural response to the presence Don’t forget to email of harmful bacteria found in plaque and tartar.

Jade your questions to As it progresses, more of the structures around be chosen for the the teeth become damaged causing gum and April 2017 issue: bone loss. Staggeringly, over 80% of dogs and hello@hillsidevets.co.uk cats over the age of four have some degree of periodontal disease.

There are lots of ways to reduce the build-up of tartar. However, once it’s there, it’s too solid to be removed by brushing alone. The best way to remove it is a thorough scale and polish carried out by your vet, targeting the area below the gum. This needs to be done under general anaesthetic in dogs and typically takes 15-20 minutes. All abnormalities are recorded and any necessary tooth extractions should be performed.

Hopefully your dog won’t need extractions but the longer dental hygiene is overlooked or ignored, the greater the chances of a longer, more expensive procedure.

Once the mouth is clean again, it’s easier to keep it that way with home dental hygiene. Your vet practice can give you helpful dental advice including appropriate chews, diets and tooth brushing.

Email your pet related questions to hello@hillsidevets.co.uk Jade Douglas BVMS GPCert (Ophthal) MRCVS

20 |

4DORSET March 2017

education and classes

Student recipients, dignitaries and FUS headteacher Philip Jones together with Peter and Linda Thornton from JTYAF (pictured centre towards the front)

Ferndown students reach for their dreams Thanks to the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation (JTYAF), 46 outstanding young people from Ferndown Upper School are closer to achieving their ambitions.

They were presented with scholarships and bursaries from JTYAF on 6 February to help develop their talents.

Seven scholarships were awarded to support students in a range of activities and an extremely talented young man is also a step closer to achieving his ambition of becoming a professional golfer.

A group of 18 students received a contribution towards their volunteering trip to Africa, and another 21

bursaries were presented.

Pete Thornton said, “This really is the best day of the year for the JTYAF and a real privilege for the charity to play a part in helping these amazing young people to develop their talents and pursue their ambitions.

“John was himself a student at the school making the awards presentation an extremely special day for the charity.

It’s a very special day for the students too, with award-winners having the opportunity to chat about their ambitions and achievements with local dignitaries and charity trustees before the event.”

The JTYAF was set up in memory of 22-yearold Lt John Thornton RM from Ferndown who was tragically killed in southern Afghanistan in 2008.

Award-winning author inspires pupils

A

li Sparks was welcomed to Ferndown Middle School recently.

The awardwinning author gave two entertaining and interactive presentations to pupils from Years 6 and 7, providing them with an insight into her ideas and inspiration for writing Frozen in Time, and CarJacked.

The author read extracts from both novels and signed copies of her books.

Some Year 6 pupils were able to complete a workshop with Ali Sparks entitled ‘The X Factor’. This involved working in groups to come up with ideas for the title of a new book then writing the blurb and opening paragraph, before voting for their favourite.

QE schoolchildren remember the Holocaust

O

n 26 January, the day before Holocaust Memorial day, students and teachers of QE School in Wimborne welcomed Joanna Millan, a survivor of Terezin concentration camp.

Joanna visited the school to give a talk to the students. She detailed how she was captured with her family and how she survived the camp, as well as her life as an orphan flown over to Britain in 1945.

The next day pupils from the school participated in a Holocaust Memorial Day service in Wimborne Minster, which featured music composed

by Ruth Fazal. Ruth wrote this music in response to artwork, poetry and stories from survivors of the Ghetto in Terezin. 15,000 children passed through the gates of Terezin Ghetto in Czechoslovakia. Of these only 100 survived. Ruth also spoke to pupils, giving

a valuable insight into the life of a professional composer.

During the service, six candles were lit in memory of the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust. The first candle was lit by Erica Prean who came to England with the Kinderstransport and the fifth, representing youth, was lit by the head boy at QE.

The QE Trio, Eilisa Love (voice) Samuel Josephs (violin) and Jonathan Scouse (piano) gave a moving performance of Dos Elnte Kind – The Lonely Child, a lullaby composed

by Yankly Krikski in the Vilna Ghetto of Lithuania.

The service was brought to a close with the Year 9 Chorus performing Isaiah 55:12, You Shall Go Out With Joy.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 21

Spotlight on| Christchurch BUSINESS COMMUNITY | UNITY

advertising feature

The Christchurch Food Festival draws thousands of visitors to the town and this year should be no exception.

The festival market and festival village will be back over the weekend of 6 and 7 May.

18 Food Festival th

Christchurch

Food for every palate and stalls galore

During the weekend, the whole length of the High Street will be lined with stalls selling all manner of food to go and food to take home with you, along with ingredients, cooking utensils, wines and liquers.

BBQ demos

For the first time there will be BBQ demonstrations for you to watch and have a go at in Saxon Square.

22 |

4DORSET March 2017

Saturday and Sunday 6 and 7 May

Down on the Quay watch demonstrations for free The festival village on Christchurch Quay, will be home to the demonstration marquee where you can watch celebrity chefs including Dean Edwards, Master Chef winner and resident chef on ITV’s Lorraine;

Lesley Waters who is the festival’s patron and long-standing popular TV chef as well as newcomer chocolatier, Alana Spencer, who was the 2016 winner of ‘The Apprentice’.

So much more

Also at the village will be a local beer festival; kids’ kitchen; Soho pizza lounge; Conker Gin and stalls selling everything foodie.

Not just about the weekend

Christchurch Food Festival provides the perfect opportunity for foodie celebrations in the area.

From Monday 1 May to Sunday 21 May, local eateries the length and breadth of Christchurch will be putting on events, offers and entertainment to give you a chance to try somewhere and something new. The events will all be listed on this website nearer the time. http:// www.christchurchfoodfest.co.uk

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 23

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

- advertising feature -

Christchurch Emporium & Shopping Village The family-friendly and dog-friendly Christchurch Emporium and Shopping Village contains over 150 individual traders from antiques, collectables, and gifts to arts and crafts, and including PCL Kitchens and Zen Hair & Beauty.

There is free parking and a ground floor café.

It’s a short stroll from Christchurch High Street, situated on the old Mostyns’ site in Bridge Street. BH23 1DY. Open Tuesday to Sunday, Christchurch Emporium and Shopping Village is well worth a visit.

24 |

4DORSET March 2017

Spotlight on Christchurch

An absolute MUST for golfing enthusiasts Peter Alliss’ new UK Tour ‘A Question of Golf’ putts into the Regent on 29 March.

Undoubtedly ‘The Voice of Golf’, Peter Alliss has been broadcasting on the game continuously for the BBC since 1961.

His enormous popularity has enabled him to travel around the world commentating on golf and entertaining millions with anecdotes, stories and reminiscences.

His brand new show will be mainly based around the chance to ask Peter questions such as ‘what are the legends Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Tony Jacklin, Tiger Woods and so on are really like?’ If anyone should know, it is Peter Alliss.

‘A Question of Golf’ will be a truly special evening’s entertainment and a must for all golf enthusiasts. Visit page 38 for booking details.

- advertising feature -

THINK PRINT

Think Print is an ink cartridge, photo frame and specialist printing shop. It stocks a wide range of cartridges, frames and photo papers, and offers a range of printing services, including canvas prints, poster and banner printing, and passport photos. Think Print’s staff are always happy to help, so enquiries are welcome.

advertising feature

Help needed!

Contact the Elderly in Christchurch takes elderly people with no family in the area for afternoon tea at a volunteer host’s home.

Reserve drivers are needed on an occasional basis to help out. Volunteer hosts are also required once a year on a Sunday to provide afternoon tea. Elderly people are welcome to go on the list for an occasional outing. Call Carolyn on 01202 424482.

Have a cuppa for charity The Christchurch Branch of Save the Children will be holding a coffee morning at the Mayor’s Parlour, Saxon Square on Saturday 11 March, 10am– 12noon. Coffee or tea and cake £2. Also a sales table, books, cake stall and raffle.

Spotlight on Christchurch

advertising feature

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

- advertising feature -

Recognising each business is unique Experienced in a wide variety of sectors, preWeb IT Solutions help to promote businesses to ensure they reach their goals, whilst recognising that each business is entirely unique.

They design and develop creative, stylish and functional websites that work for you and your visitors, creating the right solution at the right time ensuring your website is reliable and scalable; allowing it to grow as your business does.

preWeb IT Solutions care about their customers and treat every website they host as if it were their own, giving you the technology you want and the service you need at a price you can afford – the perfect combination.

They believe in excellent communication with clients and their experience and infrastructure ensures that the websites they design, develop and optimise, exceed their client’s expectations each and every time.

Contact preWeb IT Solutions now on 07590 196914 to see how they can help your business.

Be Bold for Change Bournemouth Hospital Charity Miss Annie is holding an inspirational fundraising lunch in Christchurch on 9 March to celebrate this year’s International Women’s Day theme of ‘Be Bold for Change.’

Hosted by the Captain’s Club, it will feature two dynamic speakers – Samantha McGratty and Felicity Irwin DL. Live music will be by Miss Annie. Tickets include a welcome drink and a two-course lunch.

Visit BHCharity.org/womens-day-lunch or call the charity’s events team on 01202 704020 for more details.

- advertising feature -

Full range of dental treatments

KEEPS GENERATIONS SMILING Established in Christchurch over 60 years ago, Hoburne Dental Practice has looked after generations of families who have entrusted them with their dental care.

The modern well-equipped practice has been delivering private dental care for more than 20 years and believes that preservation of as much of each individual tooth for as long as possible is the best long-term strategy for maintaining a healthy dentition for life.

Hoburne Dental Practice pride themselves on high quality, longlasting dental care for all the family, at affordable prices. They offer a full range of dental treatments including cosmetic dentistry.

And there is no need to fear if you are anxious about visiting the dentist, Hoburne Dental is an accredited Dental Phobia practice, and will try and make your dental visit as comfortable as possible.

There is even a dental phobia and anxious patient counsellor who will help patients overcome their dental fears and there is no charge for this service.

TO REQUEST A DENTAL APPOINTMENT

CALL 01425 277245

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 25

in for a bite

GOOD QUALITY PRODUCE,

cooked simply

WITH GREAT FLAVOURS Soup of the day

Confit shredded duck

Chocolate brownie

THE AVON CAUSEWAY reviewed by Adam Trimby THERE IS NOTHING BETTER THAN SHARING A FEW COLD BEERS, OR A COUPLE GLASSES OF WINE IN A NICE ENGLISH PUB WITH A PLATE OF HOT, TASTY FOOD AND GOOD COMPANY

W

here else should one turn, other than to The Avon Causeway pub and hotel, just on the outskirts of Christchurch in Hurn.

Owned by Wadworth, it not only offers the kind of salvation expected of most country pubs but also hosts luxurious hotel rooms and even the option to book a murder mystery evening on the pub’s own converted train carriage.

Even though my girlfriend Marta and I arrived a little early for our reservation, the staff were more than accommodating to let us sit at our table and order if the mood took. We decided to drink in the atmosphere before tackling the beautiful menu.

26 |

4DORSET March 2017

Having been refurbished a couple of years ago, The Avon Causeway has wonderful tone, with ambient lighting and rustic, yet comfortable, décor and furniture. Marta and I felt very contented in such a well-thought-out space. However, we couldn’t sit and drink for ever; so, we pressed on to the food.

For starters, I delved into something truly delicious, the Soup of the Day, which was a parsnip and honey medley of flavours with some beautiful cuts of rustic bread. Marta opted for the Confit shredded duck, crispy Parma ham salad and rum-soaked figs and her meal looked as beautiful as it tasted. I couldn’t resist sharing a few bites.

in for a bite Rack of ribs

O

ur mains were just as delectable, deciding to go for what seemed to be two of the more popular items on the menu, the Rack of barbecue ribs with corn on the cob, sweet potato fries and dressed leaves and the Trio of mini burgers - beef with bacon and cheese, pork and apple and minted lamb burgers in brioche buns with sweet potato fries, mustard and ketchup. Both meals were large in size and well worth the wait.

Each dish was in keeping with The Avon Causeway’s philosophy of ‘good quality produce, cooked simply with great flavours’. What more could we want?

Well, Marta and I were not finished - even though we possibly should have been - and gave in to our craving sweet teeth with two of the more gluttonous items on the menu. I grabbed a Sticky Toffee Pudding with Ice Cream and a Chocolate Brownie with Ice Cream for Marta.

Positively stuffed, we sat in the comfort of the restaurant enjoying the rest of our bottle of Rosé, imagining how enjoyable it would be to have the same amazing food and for an Inspector Poirottype to burst in and walk us through a Murder on the Avon Express.

How exciting.

Situated on the edge of the New Forest, the Avon Causeway is within easy reach of Bournemouth, Christchurch, Ringwood and Bournemouth International Airport. It also offers alfresco dining to the front, on the terrace or in the non-smoking beer garden to the rear. There is a small outdoor play area for kids, an extensive gluten-free menu and complimentary Wi-Fi. To reserve a table or book a room call 01202 482714.

Joe Smith, aspiring student chef with judges

Winners Announced of the National Final of the Teflon™ Diamond Standard Awards Head judge, celebrity chef Lesley Waters, was joined by a team of local chefs to judge the national final of the Teflon™ Diamond Standard Awards competition. They included The Pig Group’s James Golding and Bournemouth & Poole College’s Paul Dayman. Last year’s winner, James Ganderton who is thriving in an esteemed and professional environment as an apprentice at the award-winning Chewton Glen Hotel also joined the judges for this year’s competition.

The final cook off took place in London on 25 January and the winners are: Keen Young Cook (13-16 years) - Harriet Morgan-Barstow, Bay House School.

Aspiring Student Chef Winner (16-19 years) - Joe Smith, Brooksby Melton College.

Keen Home Cook (aged 17+) - Gareth Ford, Peterborough.

The awards, sponsored by Teflon™ non-stick coatings offer the chance for non-professional cooks to gain recognition for their cooking ability at home and for those attending school and catering college, the opportunity to showcase what they’ve learnt.

The shortlisted finalists from across the UK attended the national cook-off at the Waitrose Cookery School, Finchley Road to cook their

signature dishes for the panel of judges.

The Keen Young Cooks baked a dish of their choice, the Aspiring Student Chefs cooked a signature favourite and a game dish was cooked by the Keen Home Cooks. The latter two categories also filleted and cooked a fish dish from demonstration and prepared their own take on a soufflé omelette.

James Ganderton comments, “[It has] been an absolute pleasure to judge… a great experience demonstrating filleting fish to the aspired student chefs and learning new things is always a positive. It is so inspiring to see what talents are coming though the industry.”

The winning Keen Young Cook and Aspiring Student Chef were both awarded a prestigious three year Specialised Chefs Scholarship. The Keen Home Cook winner received a bespoke cookery course weekend.

In addition to these prizes, all the winners received bundles of cookware.

The scholarship is divided into two categories; work-based training with a chef member of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts at one of the finest hotels or restaurants in the UK and full-time block release tuition at Bournemouth & Poole College. The course is arranged by the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts and Teflon™ non-stick coatings, Chemours and managed by The Bournemouth & Poole College.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 27

West End Performer visits QE School Students at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wimborne, were visited by local West End performer, Dan Partridge on 26 January. He has just finished a year-long run in Mamma Mia at the Novello Theatre, London and is about to appear in a European Production of Starlight Express.

Dan held three workshops in dance, acting and musical theatre.

Students were taught a highly complex dance routine, giving them an insight into the professional working world and the demands that would be put upon them. Dan also taught students the end routine from Mamma Mia, in which students learn the vocals, harmonies and dance of the finale number.

- advertising feature -

MORE GOOD NEWS FOR WIMBORNE

Jimmy Glass, former owner of Wimborne Taxis and Kevin Diffey, Chairman of PRC Streamline Taxis

Following on from Wimborne cars and taxis becoming part of PRC Streamline Taxis, they are pleased to announce the Wimborne Taxis have also joined PRC. James Glass, who previously owned Wimborne Taxis, said they will be able to provide an even better service. This move will provide a larger fleet in Wimborne giving the only truly 24-hour, 365-days-ayear service. With the existing fleet backed up by the entire PRC Streamline fleet, it will enable them to give Wimborne the service it needs.

Kevin Diffey, Chairman of PRC Streamline said, “This will be of benefit to everyone in the Wimborne area, especially businesses. Many owners of restaurants, pubs and other businesses have complained that they have to call multiple numbers to get taxis for their customers. Now they won’t need to. We will now provide a single number, which is guaranteed to get you a car in the shortest possible time.”

PRC Streamline can offer an improved service because of the size of the fleet, which will include 4, 6, and 8-seater taxis and wheelchairfriendly vehicles, along with the latest booking technology. All drivers will be uniformed and able to take in-car card payment. They are all looking forward to a bright future. www.prcstreamline.co.uk

28 |

4DORSET March 2017

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 29

Magsie gets connected in Boscombe

Long jumper leaps through training One of the country’s most promising long-jumpers has been sponsored through his winter training

by Dorset’s Douch Family Funeral Directors.

Patrick Sylla, 18, is currently fifth in the senior rankings and number one in the under 20 category.

His longest jump is 7.61 metres (24.9ft) – a double decker bus is 31ft long - and he wants to become an Olympian.

By Janine Pulford

Cast your mind back to 10 July 2011 when a litter of pups came into the world.

One was chosen for a very special destiny.

Woofability selected her from the litter and she was adopted by mags4dorset following the company’s donation of £1,610, raised by editor Janine Pulford and her friend Christine Stevens at a Mums Behaving Madly event. It was enough to purchase the puppy and pay towards her training costs. A competition was held in Viewpoint and 4Dorset to name the new born and ‘Magsie’ was the favoured choice.

Since her birth, I have followed Magsie’s progress. After socialising and training, her first job was at a care home in Christchurch where she brought pleasure to the residents and mags4dorset’s MD Ben Pulford went to visit her.

Last May she moved to live with Rachel Barlow, a day opportunity support worker at Boscombe Connect. Magsie now regularly attends the day centre with Rachel and brings untold happiness to those who come into contact with her.

I visited Boscombe Connect to find out how Magsie had settled in.

She was in a pottery class having a rest when I arrived, but soon got up to say ‘hello’. It was a happy reunion and I like to think

30 |

4DORSET March 2017

she recognised me.

One of the day centre’s clients, Terry, was busy painting a cup and the moment Magsie got to her feet, he smiled as did everyone else in the room. It was a moment of instant happiness. “She is wonderful and brings a lot of joy,” said Terry.

Magsie is so adored, she has her own timetable and Rachel took me on a tour of the day centre to show me where Magsie would be visiting next. In each section there was a notice to say what time she would be arriving.

It was evident from everyone’s faces that they adored Magsie.

Rachel said, “She also helps calm anxious people down.”

The day centre manager, Donna Courtis added, ”Magsie is an absolute asset. She is very calm and very gentle.”

In fact Magsie has been such a success, she now has a bit of competition.

Teddy, a small terrier, has joined the centre and is training to become a caring canine. He’s only a pup yet, so Magsie is still top dog, and what a fabulous dog she is. mags4dorset is very proud to have sponsored an assistance dog with such a beautiful temperament who is loved by so many.

Magsie is another of Woofability’s success stories.

He is currently studying for his ‘A’ Levels at Avonbourne Sixth Form in Bournemouth while working through a rigorous training schedule.

Nick Douch, MD of the funeral director group, hopes that Patrick will become an inspiration to other local aspiring athletes and sportspeople.

He said, “Patrick is an astonishing athlete and has achieved so much already.

“By supporting him with his winter training we hope we will play a small part in his success this year.”

Nick with Patrick

AFC Bournemouth shows support to Dorset cancer patients Bournemouth football players Jack Wilshere and Benik Afobe marked World Cancer Day (4 February) by showing support for the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation as well as signing their shirts and donating them to be auctioned “We’re proud to show our support for such a great cause on World Cancer Day,” said Bournemouth and England international Jack Wilshere as he and striker Benik Afobe marked the day by supporting Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF).

“We hope that with the club’s backing and the support of others, Dorset Cancer Care Foundation can continue its great and highly-valued work,” he added.

DCCF gives financial assistance to Dorset families affected by cancer, funding everything from short breaks and counselling, to transport costs to and from hospital and household bills.

The charity was set up in Poole in 2012 and

is one of the club’s official charities for 2017. Cherries chairman Jeff Mostyn is also a patron of the charity.

“Bournemouth’s support is invaluable to us as a small, local charity in raising awareness of the struggles people can face while undergoing cancer treatment,” said DCCF trustee Anne

Rowland. “Jack and Benik have also kindly signed their shirts and donated them to DCCF to auction off.

“We hope Cherries fans will also join the players in supporting us, by staging their own fundraising events for DCCF in 2017.”

For more information visit: www.dccf.co.uk

charity of the year

RNLI Couple with ‘hearts of gold’ recognised by

RNLI

Brian and Marge Traves must surely have hearts of gold embossed with RNLI. The couple recently received special recognition at the Poole Lifeboat dinner for all they have done for the charity.

Brian has been an RNLI governor for over 50 years, and for the last decade or more he’s been the fundraising chairman of Poole Lifeboat Station. With Marge his ‘PA’ by his side, he made it his mission to reopen the neglected Old Lifeboat Museum and was instrumental in how it looks and feels today.

He also registered the Thomas Kirk Wright with the Association of Dunkirk Little Ships giving her the credence and protection that the revered ‘old gal’ deserved.

Working tirelessly as custodians of the museum, Brian and Marge helped organise the 70th and 75th commemorative ceremonies. With a succession of fundraising, the branch grew from strength-to-strength. Monthly fundraising meetings at the station saw everyone mucking in, sharing roles at the museum, at the station and fundraising in general.

The Traves were enthusiastic tour guides at the RNLI College, greeting visitors from all over the world. The couple have been such fantastic ambassadors for the RNLI, they even organised an ‘SOS’ fundraising event whilst on a personal cruise, which raised thousands of pounds.

A major fundraiser for the Poole branch was the jazz event at the Sandbanks Hotel. Featuring professional West End jazz musicians, including Chris Traves, (Brian and Marge’s son), the event has put thousands into the RNLI fundraising pot over the years.

Marge orchestrated the selling of Christmas cards and gifts in the retirement homes around Poole, which was very popular with the residents.

Despite ill health, Brian and Marge have been incredibly supportive of the RNLI and have gone above and beyond for the station.

On behalf of the crew and as gratitude of thanks to all the fundraisers, lifeboat volunteer, Adrian Rosser presented Brian with a framed picture and a bouquet of flowers to Marge. The couple received a standing ovation for all their love and support of Poole Lifeboat and their commitment to raising an amazing amount of funds.

Lifeboat crew recognised for going above and beyond At the recent Poole Lifeboat dinner, a group of lifeboat volunteers received a framed letter each from the Poole Lifeboat Operations Manager, (LOM), Rod Brown.

A letter from the LOM is highly valued for the genuine gratitude behind it, as it is a tribute, a personal thank you, and acknowledgement of the beneficiary’s courageous, selfless action.

The letter reflected the intensity of a latenight search for a missing person at sea, after a call out by Solent Coastguard.

The unassuming crew who received the letter will always share the events of that night, and they expressed their gratitude for the sincere recognition from the LOM.

- advertising feature -

What a difference a day makes Transform your conservatory in less than a day with Green Space insulated roof panels Conservatories are usually constructed to add extra living space to a home, however many people find their conservatory is either too cold or too hot to sit in comfortably. So what’s the answer?

In 2010 the planning laws were relaxed and in the majority of cases, you can now fit a solid roof to your conservatory without planning permission. This means better insulation, keeping the room warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, and a room that you can use all year round.

There are a few different options to fitting a solid roof on your conservatory, most of which

require major upheaval and disruption. Green Space have an option that will transform your room from an unusable space to a beautiful room in less than one day!

Green Space Ltd is a family run company that specialise in transforming conservatories. Using lightweight roof panels, they offer up to eight times better insulation than a polycarbonate roof.

With U-values of 0.29, they will keep your conservatory at a comfortable temperature all year round. What’s more, the panels are manufactured to measure off site, so installation generally takes less than a day. Green Space are the sole supplier of this system in the South. Their system is compatible with most conservatories, old and new – plus it comes with a 10 year guarantee.

Transform your conservatory in one day – contact them today on 01793 208 002 or visit them online at www.greenspaceconservatories. co.uk and see what a difference a day makes!

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 31

Men on the March Bournemouth Hospital Charity are excited to announce that registration is now open for this year’s ‘March for Men’.

Sponsored by Keith Motors, March for Men will see local people run, jog or walk over a choice of one, five, or ten kilometre courses along the Bournemouth seafront on Sunday 19 March.

Sons, fathers, brothers, uncles, grandfathers – as well as their loved ones – are invited to register for this family-friendly, fun event that everyone can participate in, no matter their age or ability.

Now in its fourth consecutive year, March for Men is one of the charity’s most popular events that helps to raise funds for men’s health treatment and equipment at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

Each year, over 150,000 men are treated at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital for a range of conditions – many of which being urological, or cancer patients facing conditions such as prostate, bladder or testicular cancers.

Surgical Directorate Consultant at the Royal

Bournemouth Hospital, James Manners, says it is hoped this year’s March for Men will enable the hospital to acquire new state-ofthe-art equipment to help staff and consultants tackle the challenges faced when treating male patients.

He added, “We would like to introduce a new service for our bladder cancer patients known as ‘blue light cystoscopy’, which will make it clearer for our consultants to identify cancer cells in patients and confirm their removal after operations.”

“We also want to make use of new ‘TURIS’ equipment to help improve urinary symptoms in men with prostate growths. This should help make treatments safer, provide new treatment opportunities for patients with very large prostate growths and even help reduce hospital stay periods in many cases.”

Entry is £15 for over-16s, £8 for ages 5-15 and under-5s free. The public can register online at BHCharity.org/M4M or by calling the Charity Office on 01202 704060.

New creative project to support people living with dementia People living with dementia and their close family members are invited to join a free art and reminiscence project in Poole Mementos is a new group organised

by Dorset charity Prama and Borough of Poole Arts Service and is open to people living with dementia and their family carers. A team of professional artists will work with the group and support them to share memories and use textiles, fabrics and photos to create beautiful and personal mementos.

Katrina Keeling from Prama said, “Caring for someone with memory loss can be stressful at times and it is so important to find activities you can enjoy together. The Mementos group is a chance to enjoy a relaxing and rewarding activity together, to learn new skills and make friends.”

Anna Shiels, Arts Programme Manager, Borough of Poole Arts Service, said: “Working with textiles can be really beneficial for people with dementia as it is such a tactile experience. The sessions will be relaxed and informal so everyone can

work at their own pace and focus on what people enjoy and can achieve together.”

Mementos is funded by the Big Lottery Fund. The group will meet on Thursday mornings at Cynthia Close in Poole. To book your place, or to find out more about taking part in the project as a participant or as a volunteer, please contact Anna Shiels on 01202 633971 or email: a.shiels@poole.gov.uk

The issue of spit guards

by Martyn Underhill, Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner Having been a police officer, I understand first-hand how horrific it is to be spat at or bitten. I have experienced both personally.

Beyond the initial shock, the possibility of contracting HIV and hepatitis cannot be ruled out during the treatment period, which can last months. The psychological effect on the officer and their loved ones is huge. In many ways, the aftermath is actually worse than the assault itself.

The principle that police officers and staff should not be spat at is beyond dispute; but what remains open to question is whether spit guards are the best method through which to ensure that this is effectively and safely achieved.

Given the apparent difficulties in pre-empting if somebody is going to spit, I question whether spit guards really provide a practical solution to problem.

Legislative change would appear to be one area where we can make a difference. I am

32 |

4DORSET March 2017

currently writing to all Dorset MPs, asking them to lobby for stronger sentencing in order to put a proper deterrent in place to dissuade people from undertaking such vile and disgusting attacks.

This is understandably an emotive issue, but it is important not to lose sight of the key issues.

In addition to the welfare of police officers and staff, we must also consider the welfare of the person doing the spitting.

Many people who spit or bite are in mental crisis, under the influence of alcohol and drugs, or sometimes all three.

By their actions, they are clearly experiencing high levels of anxiety at the time of arrest. This makes them vulnerable.

There does not appear to be any international human rights standards, decisions or judgments specifically assessing the lawfulness of the use of spit guards, but we do know that there are clear risks involved with their

use. Putting a hood on someone can cause serious injury or worse.

There is a lack of consistency across the UK as to whether forces should adopt spit guards, and if they do, the circumstances in which they should be deployed.

With the absence of clear national direction, police forces appear to be sleepwalking into an age where officers are being equipped to ‘hood’ detainees, at the same time as using leg braces, ankle braces and handcuffs. The potential dangers are obvious.

It is my view that a number of important questions remain unanswered.

Given the void of research and guidance and the inconsistent application in practice, I am not convinced that I would feel empowered by the availability of spit hoods if I were an operational police officer today.

Police officers and staff often encounter dangerous situations in carrying out their duties; they are

asked to make difficult decisions and they put themselves in harm’s way in order to keep their communities safe. It is therefore vital that we provide them with wellconsidered, effective and ethical solutions to minimise the risks that they and those they come into contact with face.

As well as being PCC for Dorset, I am the Chair of the Independent Custody Visiting Association (ICVA) and on behalf of my Board, I have written to the Home Secretary formally raising our concern at the lack of research, policy, governance and public consultation in relation to spit guards.

Just recently, a video of a Dorset bus driver being spat at has gone viral. This is clearly an issue that warrants full and proper debate. I hope that the Home Secretary will commission a review into spit guard practices and alternative solutions as soon as possible.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 33

Olly Murs

names youngest ever X Factor winner as special guest at Kings Park concert Louisa Johnson, the X Factor starlet who won the 2015 series of the TV talent show at the age of 17, has been named as Olly Murs’ special guest at his outdoor concert in Bournemouth on 5 August.

Up to 10,000 fans are expected to descend on the park for the concert.

R’n’B and pop star Louisa, who is set to release her debut album this year, said, “I’m delighted to be appearing with Olly in Bournemouth. He has always been one of my heroes and to be sharing a stage with him will be a very special moment.

“Little did I dream that when I was watching him on the X Factor I would one day win the competition myself and end

Scouting for help

up performing with him.”

Olly, 32, is another X Factor success story. He shot to fame in 2009 after finishing second to Joe McElderry.

Popular singer-songwriter Olly is one of British music’s biggest stars with record sales exceeding 10 million.

He scored an amazing fourth consecutive number one album with his latest, most personal offering 24 Hrs. His top singles include Dance With Me Tonight, Troublemaker and Dear Darlin’.

Tickets for Kings Park cost £39.50, or £55 for Gold Circle pit tickets, both are subject to a booking fee. Book at http:// ollyinthepark.co.uk For hospitality bookings call 01202 255161.

Home Instead receives Queen’s Award The prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation was presented to Home Instead Senior Care by Her Majesty’s representative for Cheshire, the Lord Lieutenant David Briggs, MBE, KStJ, at an official ceremony on 20 January.

The Queen’s Awards have been running for over 50 years and are the highest accolades available to UK businesses.

Home Instead Senior Care is the first provider of its kind to receive this award due to the very different model of companionship-based high quality care that they brought to the UK care sector in 2005.

The company has an office based in Wimborne, which delivers care and companionship to people in their own homes across East Dorset and Blandford.

Recognising their contribution, the Lord Lieutenant of Cheshire

34 |

4DORSET March 2017

David Briggs, said, “You look at each client in the way they of course would want to be looked at, as a whole human being and you are very deserving winners of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: Innovation.”

Home Instead’s UK MD Martin Jones said, “We are the first and only homecare brand ever to have received a Queen’s Award for Enterprise. To receive the award for innovation is, I

Martin Jones receiving the Queen’s Award for Innovation from the Lord Lieutenant David Briggs, MBE, KStJ

think, a real reflection of the truly pioneering approach we have taken to providing care for older people in the UK. “Receiving this award has been a wonderful way for us to celebrate the start of 2017 and we’re looking forward to another fantastic year ahead of us.

This recognition for Home Instead’s work is another step forward in our mission to change the face of ageing in this country.”

First Ferndown Scout Group has put out an urgent plea for help because their hut, which has bars at the windows to stop vandals, is often mistaken for a derelict building, and parents and helpers want to improve the premises and give the Scouts something to be proud of.

Supermum and 1st Ferndown Scout Group volunteer Louise Richardson is drumming up enthusiasm in the community to give the Scout hut some tender loving care.

“Every week, on different evenings, groups of youngsters get together within this horrible, cold, smelly, damp, unsafe building. They come along to make new friends, learn new skills and learn what it is to be part of a community and learn to help others less fortunate then themselves,” said Louise.

But things are looking up. Having been without a leader for a while, the role has been filled by David McGregor.

Louise became involved with Scouting when her five-year-old son asked to join the group last September. Louise asked to join the executive committee, only to be told there wasn’t one.

In the past few weeks this has changed and a fully operational executive committee has been appointed. Louise then discovered there was no money but lots of willing parents and helpers.

She explained that the current group leaders have been paying out of their own pockets to keep the groups going and added, “We would not have managed to continue without the dedication of these leaders.”

1st Ferndown Scout Group is now looking

for donations, no matter how small, to help buy equipment including pens and pencils, camping gear, cutlery, crockery, tea towels, tables, chairs and filing cabinets.

A new carpet, replacement windows, kitchen refurbishment and upgraded bathroom facilities are also needed as are roof insulation, outside lights, gutter clearance and exterior paintwork.

Louise says donations would be great, as well as skilled workmen/ women willing to give up a little time to help with maintenance. Local companies that could assist with donating equipment are also being sought.

Tesco Ferndown has already donated paint as well as a donation and some willing helpers.

Howdens has donated kitchen cupboards and an appliance, which will enable the children to complete their cookery badge in a safe and clean environment.

The aim of the Scout group, says Louise, is to turn the premises into a safe, clean environment where the children and youth of Ferndown can learn new skills for their future as well as having fun.

If you can help the group, which is located next to Ferndown Upper School on Cherry Grove, call Louise Richardson on 07850 849069 or email her at richardsonlou@hotmail. co.uk. A Cub leader is also required.

COMPETITIONCRAZY!

Creative Writing Awards 9th Short Story Competition is now open

£150 top prize RULES

Length: roughly 1,000 words.

The inspiration for each story must be taken from one of the three featured photos.

You must give your story a title. Entries must be typed and double line spaced.

The title of the story, your name, address, email and phone number must be on its own page and must not appear on any other pages.

Entry fee: £4 for the first story, £3 per story thereafter.

Entries can be submitted on line at www.mags4dorset.co.uk or posted with a cheque payable to mags4dorset. Send to mags4dorset, CWA2017, First Floor King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Entries can also be emailed to CWA2017@ mags4dorset.co.uk but will not be considered until the entry fee is received in full.

Prize: winner £150, runner-up £25. mags4dorset reserves the right to publish the winning story and runner up story in 4Dorset and/or Viewpoint Magazine and online on the mags4dorset website. The author retains copyright.

Closing date: 31 August 2017.

The shortlist will be chosen by editor, author and publisher Janine Pulford and the first judge to be announced is Adam Trimby MA Lit.

Achieve Peter’s gardening prediction by winning

£100 worth of Stewarts Garden Centre vouchers!

As pre-planted bulbs push through the earth to announce that spring is here, Peter Wood, Stewarts Garden Centre’s plant area manager at Broomhill, Wimborne, predicts that more customers this year will take advantage of plants that can provide all-season colour amongst the great choice of baby and plug plants.

“Our plant team can offer great advice on the range of plants to ensure that your garden looks great this coming year,” said Peter.

Stewarts and mags4dorset has teamed up to give away £100 worth of Stewarts Garden Centre gift vouchers* to help one lucky winner fulfil Peter’s prediction.

For your chance to win, answer the following question:

In which lane is Stewarts Broomhill garden centre situated?

Enter online at www.mags4dorset.co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to Stewarts competition, mags4dorset, 1st Floor King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9EN. The first correct answer drawn after the closing date will be the winner.

Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd and Stewarts Garden Centre and their relatives are not permitted to enter.

Closing date is 24 March 2017. The editor’s decision is final.

* terms and conditions apply

(from left) Peter Wood with some of the baby plants to brighten your garden

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 35

Ferndown residents will foot bill for £1m KGV Fields Charity redevelopment and provision of youth facilities in the town Report by Janine Pulford

F

erndown Town councillors have approved the budget for the £1m KGV Fields Charity redevelopment. The decision was made at a full council meeting on 30 January and followed a public meeting held at King George V Pavilion on 23 January where plans of the proposed KGV Field Charity redevelopment were on display. Over 50 people attended.

The council as sole trustee of the charity says it has a duty to future-proof the charity for the next generation of users. If the plans are approved by the planning authority, the redevelopment could be completed by this time next year.

In a mission statement the town council states it wants to enable residents of Ferndown and its surroundings to enjoy high quality social, recreational and cultural facilities within the town and seek the continuing improvement and development of these facilities in accordance with the wishes of residents.

The working group that formulated the redevelopment plans are the Mayor of Ferndown, Cllr Mike Parkes, Town Clerk Vanessa Ricketts, Cllr Terry Cordery and Cllr Steven Lugg.

36 |

4DORSET March 2017

The proposals are: • To redevelop the pavilion, add 20 car parking spaces and extend the existing workshops • Redevelop the existing play area • Install a MUGA (multi use games area) on tennis courts 5 and 6 • Extend the floodlights • Resurface 4 tennis courts • Install an outdoor fitness trail • Improve gates to include automated access • Project management

C

osted at £1m, the project includes putting a roof over the existing quadrant within the pavilion; installing a bar to service the existing wedding room as well as other events; installing new changing areas and lavatories; extending the existing tennis club to three times its current size and adding bi-fold doors

opening onto the courts as well as adding bi-fold doors to the existing bowling club.

Funding was explained at the public meeting on 23 January. The town council will apply for a Public Works Loan at a fixed rate of 2.4% for 30 years and gift the money to the charity for the work to be carried out. The repayments of £50,000 a

year would have to be paid off by residents who would see their precept rise. For a band D property this will amount to an additional £7 per annum.

When asked if there were contingencies for over-spending it was explained that the council would also approach other organisations for additional funding, which would give a buffer on top of the £1m.

Provision of youth facilities Also at the meeting on 23 January, it was reported that Ferndown Town Council has submitted a bid to Dorset County Council to run the youth facility Riffs, which shut last July, whilst encouraging the existing groups such as sexual health and counselling to remain.

The mayor said the

council wanted to give a home to youth in the town because there was nothing to meet those requirements. “We have seen an increase in anti social behaviour since it [Riffs] closed. We agreed to bid to take over youth provision in the town. We owe it to the youth of Ferndown to do something major.”

The cost of running the youth provision along with a contingency for repairs was estimated at £30,000 per annum.

The council admitted it did not have the resources to fund this amount and that £4 per annum (band D) would have to be added to the precept to cover these costs.

Dorset residents support rise in policing element of council tax A six-week consultation has shown that Dorset residents are overwhelmingly supportive of the proposal to raise the policing element of council tax in the county.

The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) engaged with residents online, as well as at a series of face-to-face roadshows across Dorset, to find out whether they would be prepared to pay an extra £3.80 per year to support police in the county.

Members of the public were informed that the rise would be invested in three key areas: protecting adults at risk of harm, improving the response to common, non-emergency types of crime and embracing new technology to continue to meet the challenges of modern policing.

Almost 4,500 residents gave their views and 80% said they would be prepared to pay an additional £3.80 per year to enable Dorset Police to invest in these areas.

Dorset PCC, Martyn Underhill, said, “Dorset Police has experienced real terms cuts of £19m in central Government funding over the last five years. It will continue to experience these cuts at a rate of £1m per year for the next three years, making it more difficult for the Force to develop innovative ways to address emerging issues and growing demand.”

The £3.80 increase the Commissioner is proposing will create revenue of £1.07m, offsetting the yearly budget decrease imposed by these central government cuts.

If a rise is implemented, it will take effect from 1 April 2017.

SIX out of NINE Dorset councils vote for change Councils have been divided over their decision about a proposal for a major shake up in Dorset.

Dorset County, Bournemouth, North Dorset, Poole, West Dorset and Weymouth & Portland councils have backed the proposed change, whereas East Dorset, Christchurch and Purbeck have voted against it. This gives the six in favour, the mandate to ask the Secretary of State to change local government structures.

THE PROPOSAL

The proposal is to create two new unitary councils based on the following existing local authority areas: Unitary A: Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, including delivering the services currently provided by Dorset County Council in Christchurch.

Unitary B: East Dorset, North Dorset and West Dorset, Purbeck, Weymouth & Portland, including the services currently provided by Dorset County Council in this area.

DORSET CHIEF EXECUTIVE GROUP COMMENT After all the councils had voted, Matt Prosser, Chairman of the Dorset Chief Executive Group said, “We now have a mandate from our councils and we have the backing of the public and other stakeholders. That is clear from the consultation results. Now, we have a duty to respond to that mandate and secure a sustainable and even brighter future for Dorset. We are resolved in our commitment to a county that is healthy, prosperous, vibrant and inclusive for generations to come. We now need to determine the next steps in achieving this opportunity of a lifetime.”

Matt If the Secretary of State agrees and the change is Prosser approved by Parliament during 2017/18, decision-making bodies would be appointed to determine the structure, budget and service delivery models of each new council. These would be made up of councillors from all existing local authorities. The new councils would ‘go live’ in April 2019, with full elections in May 2019.

THREE COUNCILS AGAINST East Dorset District Council: 17:12 Cllr Spencer Flower, Leader of East Dorset District Council, said, “Members voted against the recommendations to support the case for change for local government in Dorset. Changes to the structure of local government in Dorset would present an historic opportunity to transform our services at a time when budgets are being cut and our priority must be protecting frontline services.

“Whilst the majority of members of this council may not support the case for change, if other councils in Dorset choose to make a submission to the Secretary of State, the final decision regarding local government reorganisation will not be ours to make.

“It is now vital that East Dorset continues to engage in this process to ensure we get the best possible outcome for our residents.”

Christchurch Borough Council: 14:8 Cllr Ray Nottage, Leader of Christchurch Borough Council echoed Cllr Flower’s statement.

Purbeck District Council: 12:11 Leader of Purbeck District Council, Councillor Gary Suttle, said it was clear the decision was not taken lightly, “I stated from the outset that this was to be the decision of each individual councillor. I have every respect for the outcome of the vote and will do my utmost to support the mandate that I have been given by my Council.” With 11 in favour and 11 against, the Chairman used his casting vote.

For more information about the proposals being submitted to the Secretary of State by the six councils in favour follow @FutureDorset on Twitter or visit www.futuredorset.co.uk

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 37

in and around the area

what’s on

this month Details were correct at the time of going to print but readers are advised to check before attending events

9 March 2pm

Wimborne Horticultural Society talk ‘Hellebores’ by Mrs Diana Guy at Minster Room, Community Learning & Resource Centre, 41-44 King Street, Wimborne (new venue for this year). Admission members £1, non-members £3. Details: 01202 887006

10 March 9.30am–12noon and every Friday

Wimborne Country Market at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne.

Homemade cakes, bread, preserves, flowers, fruit and veg, meat, crafts and more.

10 March 7.30pm

16 March 7.30pm

‘Bird songs and how to know them’. Talk with illustrations and audio by Richard Hesketh. At Christchurch Baptist Church Hall, Bargates, corner of Beaconsfield Road, Christchurch. £2 incl coffee and biscuits. Bournemouth & Christchurch Group of Dorset Wildlife Trust.

16 March 7.30–10pm

Verwood Traditional Jazz Club welcomes Pamela’s All Stars at St Leonards Hotel, near Ringwood. For more details or tickets, contact Janet 01202 873725 or Geoff 07798 721405

17-18 March

Bourne2Sing Male Voice choir concert at The Hub, Verwood. For tickets telephone 01202 828740

Wimborne Cider Festival at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne, with live music, BBQ and more. Tickets from the Allendale Centre or www.fuelledbycider.com

12 March 10.30am–4pm

18 March 12–4pm

Spring Wedding Show at Highcliffe Castle, Rothesay Drive, BH23 4LE. Adults £1 Children under 16 and Season Ticket holders free. Fashion Show at 12pm. Details: 01425 278807

Verwood Horticultural Society spring show, Verwood Memorial Hall. The Falklands, Islands of Kings, Tyrants and Giants - Mike Read 01202 814376

12 March 2.30pm

Dorset Cottage Garden Society will be welcoming horticulturist Rosemary Legrand. Rosemary will talk about her plant-hunting expedition to Bhutan.

Meeting at Poundbury Village Hall, all are welcome. £5 entry fee for visitors.

To book a place, email Jenny Daultrey on j.daultrey@btinternet.com or come along on the day.

Gala Charity Evening at David Lloyd club, Ringwood in aid of the Regal Ringwood fundraising group. Includes 3-course meal and wine, charity auction, and entertainment by singer and comedian Phil Lowen. More details and tickets priced £40 from Mike Tuck, chairman on 01425 475129 or go to website: www.ringwood-regal.co.uk/ latest-news/

13 March 2.30pm

21 March 10–12 noon

18 March 7 for 7.30pm

21 March 7.30pm

Bournemouth Electronic Organ Society presents a concert of popular music by Penny Weedon at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wimborne. Visitors welcome. £5 payable at door. Details: 01202 895254

23 March 7pm

Legendary reggae band The Wailers perform their Legend album of hits and others at 02 Academy, Christchurch Rd, Boscombe BH1 4BH. Tickets £24 via the website at: www.ticketweb.co.uk

24 March 6pm onwards

The Amy Winehouse Experience aka Lioness appearing at the Old Fire Station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth BH8 8AD. Tickets £13.50 from academymusicgroup.com. Age restriction 8+

Verwood Keyboard Society concert with Brett Wales on Wersi Louvre keyboard in the Hub theatre. Tickets £10 on the door. Further information from Janetta, 01202 822936 or Organfax website.

30 March 2–3pm

Gerald Pointing talk ‘Edwardian’ at Fordingbridge library. Tickets from the library or from ticket line on 01425 657524

25 March 9.30–12 noon

31 March 7pm for 7.30pm

Superheroes children’s crafts at Fordingbridge library. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

25 March 8am–3pm

Plant sale at Cherry Tree Nursery, off Northbourne Roundabout, Bournemouth BH10 7DA. Tel: 01202 593537

New Forest Disability at Fordingbridge Library. Free, impartial, disability related information and advice.

21 March 7.30pm

28 March 7.30pm

15 March and every Wednesday 10am–2pm

Colin Stone’s talk on ‘Industrial Tramways & Railways of South Dorset’ with the Bournemouth and Beyond Discovery Group. Meeting at St Andrew’s Church Hall, St Stevens Road, Bournemouth, BH2 6JJ. Visitors welcome £3. For more details go to www.bournemouthandbeyond.co.uk

4DORSET March 2017

29 March 7.30pm

31 March 7.15 for 7.30pm

‘Tea with Oscar Wilde’ – billed as ‘1890’s wittiest chit-chat show’ by Best Cellar.

Tickets £15, includes a tea and cake reception. Highcliffe Castle, Rothesay Drive, Highcliffe, BH23 4LE or tel 01425 278807. www.highcliffecastle.co.uk

‘Tips for the Show Bench’ by Gwynne Davies speaking at West Moors Horticultural Society at the Memorial Hall, Station Road, West Moors.

38 |

Well-known author Ben Kane will be at West Moors library as part of his promotional tour to talk about his new novel Eagles in the Storm based on Roman history, which will be available to buy on the night. More details from the library on 01202 873272

24 March 7.30pm

25 March 1.30pm

Wimborne Business Jelly for selfemployed and lone workers at the Village Café, Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Chat with others and bring some work/laptop. No charge.

29 March

West Moors Horticultural Society Spring Show at the Memorial Hall, Station Road

Bournemouth and Beyond Discovery Group: ‘Tolpuddle Martyrs & Their Times’ with Dr Phillip Coward. Meeting at St Andrew’s Church Hall, St Stevens Road, Bournemouth, BH2 6JJ. Visitors welcome £3. For more details go to www.bournemouthandbeyond.co.uk

Bournemouth Orchid Society with speaker Dino Zelenika talking on Orchid propagating in Laos. At Bournemouth Natural Science Society, Christchurch Road, BH1 3NS. Entry free, but email Melville at: programme@ bournemouthorchidsociety.org.uk

Mayor of Wimborne’s Gala Charity Night starring Gary J Foley, Elvis tribute act.

At Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Tickets £25, includes buffet. Tickets from 01202 887247 or 01202 881655

31 March 7.45pm

Wimborne Movie Makers at green clubhouse next to the Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Filming with the Green Screen. Make a short script. Prize for the best. Contact Garry Court on 01202 378515

1 April

Dorset Theatre-goers Club trip to see ‘Nell Gwynn’ at the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford. Full details from Lynda Maidment on 01305 269892 or visit the website www. dorsettheatregoersclub.co.uk

in and around the area To enter either of these competitions, enter at: www. mags4dorset.co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to: SYD LAWRENCE or ALL SHOOK UP COMPETITION mags4dorset, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset B22 9EN. The closing date for both is Friday 31 March. The first correct entry drawn will be the winner.

Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd, The Regent Centre, or Poole & Parkstone Productions are not permitted to enter.

There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final.

COM P

ETITIO

N

COM P

ETITIO

N

Stephen Downey as ‘Chad’ with dancers (L-R) Vanessa Rickford, Sharon Abel, Libby Russell, Sophie Wright, Donna Cheese, Katherine Steele, Leanne Holland and Becky Hewins

Poole & Parkstone Productions are All Shook Up! Win a pair of tickets!

Poole & Parkstone Productions are one of the biggest amateur theatre companies in the Bournemouth and Poole area with a proud membership of more than 100 across three sections of the society; the Musical Theatre Society, the Singers and The Players.

The Musical Theatre Society members are hard at work rehearsing for their spring show – All Shook Up at the newly reopened Barrington Theatre, in May. Set in America in 1955, All Shook Up tells the tale of one girl’s dream and a surprise visit from a mysterious leather-jacketed, guitar-playing stranger who helps a small town to discover the magic of romance and the power

of rock & roll. It’s a fast-paced, highenergy musical comedy inspired by, and featuring, the hits of Elvis Presley including Jailhouse Rock, Heartbreak Hotel, Love Me Tender, and Can’t Help Falling in Love.

The society is particularly excited to have been granted permission to perform All Shook Up, especially as this year marks the 40th anniversary of Elvis’s death.

The show runs from Wednesday 10 May to Saturday 13 May at 7.30pm each evening with an additional matinée performance on 13 May at 2.30pm.

Tickets are available via email tickets@ pandp.org.uk or call the box office on 07783 068373.

Win two your chance to win, tell us who first recorded tickets for the For Jailhouse Rock and Love Me Tender Syd Lawrence PREVIOUS COMPETITION WINNERS: Orchestra The winner of the tickets to see the Christians in our January issue was Debbie Joy The memorable Syd Lawrence Orchestra is performing at the Regent Centre in Christchurch on Thurs 20 April at 7.30pm.

On the circuit since 1967, this glittering gem of a band provides a fantastic evening of entertainment.

Chris Dean now fronts the band and the Syd Lawrence Orchestra will deliver a classic full-throttle performance at the Regent Centre. Expect full energy with a hearty helping of nostalgia. Featuring the music of Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Frank Sinatra and more.

of Bournemouth, who was delighted with her prize.

Books for Boys comes to Poole Museum ‘Books for Boys; Heroism, Adventure, & Empire at the Dawn of the First World War’ is a brand new exhibition that opened at Poole Museum on 11 February and runs till 23 April.

The Education Act of 1870 led to an explosion of reading opportunities for young people, with books and magazines designed especially for boys becoming a popular source of information and entertainment.

Poole Museum’s ‘Books for Boys’ explores this literature, and determines whether it shaped the outlook of boys and young men in the Victorian and Edwardian years leading up to 1914, and created attitudes that may have led to the start of the First World War. Comparing both British and German literature of the period, the exhibition will encourage visitors to look at this influential and ultimately devastating period of time from a new angle, and see how books, some of which are still well-loved classics, may have helped the young people of Britain and Germany determine their place in the wider world.

Admission to the exhibitions is free, and is open during normal museum opening hours.

For your chance of winning two tickets for this high-energy evening, answer the following question:

When was the Syd Lawrence Orchestra founded?

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 39

in and around the area

New festival to be staged in Poole Park This May a brand new festival will be coming to the area in association with the European Maritime Festival, which takes place in Poole and in the UK for the first time ever.

Thousands of visitors are expected for the two-day European Maritime Conference and the annual Poole Boat Show.

‘Taste of the South’ is a 3-day festival running from 19–21 May in Poole Park and will be a celebration of all things local from the South of England, which include food, drink, produce, art, culture, and entertainment.

There will be exhibitors, tastings, samples, and demonstrations to give a taste of what the South can offer. Exhibitors are currently being sought for the event.

Visit the website at www. tastesouth.events for more information.

40 |

4DORSET March 2017

Guy Henry (centre) with the cast of HCP’s Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs on stage at the Regent Centre

Guy Henry attends performance of Highcliffe Charity Player’s Snow White

D

orset-raised actor Guy Henry attended a performance of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs by the award-winning Highcliffe Charity Players, of which he is president. After the show, Guy went up on stage at the Regent Centre, Christchurch, to

congratulate the cast.

Said Guy, “My mum and I had a wonderful time with Snow White and the entire company of HCP’s latest charity extravaganza...

All panto was here! Corny gags, twirling terpsichory, soaring songs and splendid Dizzy G, the rapping

dwarf. Loved the tap-dancing rats!

Huge congratulations to talented duo Paul Barrington and son Charles for imaginative direction of a terrific show – here’s to seeing you all in Dagenham this summer.”

Guy, who plays surgeon Henrik Hanssen in BBC One’s Holby City and appears in the new Star Wars film Rogue One, made his stage debut in Highcliffe at the age of 11 playing a footman in the Charity Players’ production of Cinderella in the early 1970s, and has never forgotten what he calls ‘my wonderful early years in panto with HCP’. His parents Diz and Michael Henry were founder members of the company.

HCP chairman Georgina Smith (who played the Wicked Queen in Snow White) commented, “It was really special to have Guy in the audience; it’s so good of him to find time in his busy schedule to come and see us. He is a great supporter of HCP and we are very lucky to have him as our president. We look forward to welcoming him to our next production – the musical Made in Dagenham, which we are performing at the Regent Centre in July.

in and around the area

COM P

ETITIO

Palace House, 13th century Beaulieu Abbey and the picturesque grounds and gardens. Tickets can be bought in advance online at www.beaulieu.co.uk or for more details, call 01590 612345.

N

Two lucky readers can have the chance to win a family ticket to the Beaulieu attraction.

To enter, answer this question:

Be a Nature Detective at Beaulieu this Easter 8–23 APRIL Be a Nature Detective at Beaulieu this Easter, follow the wildlife trail around the attraction and its stunning grounds, see the giant tree carving and enjoy animalthemed face painting.

Meet the larger-then-life Easter bunny and see the National Motor Museum come to life with veteran cars motoring around the Beaulieu parkland.

Visitors will be given a bag to collect wildlife goodies on the Nature Detective trail and spot the tree-top carving of a griffin, as you ride on the high-

level monorail. Then collect your Easter treat reward at the Brabazon Restaurant.

At Palace House, which has been home to the Montagu family since 1538, you can also join in with Victorian games.

All of the Easter activities are offered throughout the Easter break, from 8 –23 April And are included in the standard Beaulieu admission price, which also includes entrance to the National Motor Museum, World of Top Gear, On Screen Cars,

What is the carving of that is in the tree-tops on the Nature Detective trail?

Enter at: www.mags4dorset. co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to: BEAULIEU COMPETITION, mags4dorset, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset B22 9EN. The closing date is Friday 31 March.

The first two correct entries drawn will be the winners.

Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd and The Regent Centre are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final.

BUMPER

Regent success The Regent in Christchurch has just announced its results for the Christmas and New Year period and there has been a box office bonanza at the centre with the Glad Rag Production Company breaking their own box office record.

Christmas Spectacular 2016 in December, attracted an extra 886 patrons over Christmas Spectacular 2015, which represents a 26% increase in audience levels year on year.

Meanwhile, Highcliffe Charity Players’ audience levels for their New Year Pantomime, Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs in January 2017, were also stellar, no doubt boosted during the run by the visit of their patron, star of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Guy Henry. Snow White pulled one over on Goldilocks & the Three Bears, HCP’s January 2016 pantomime,

with a 7% increase in the number of seats sold.

Adding to the box office bonanza at the Regent was the New Year’s Eve Party film Mamma Mia (PG) which not only sold out all of its seats but there was also a waiting list at the box office, making it the hottest ticket in town that night!

Travels with the Gilbert & Sullivan Society

To celebrate their 70th anniversary, the multi-award winning Bournemouth Gilbert and Sullivan Society presents a brand new show, Highlights and Finales, featuring many favourite numbers, along with four of the best-loved Act One Finales.

Some things never change and in these ‘interesting’ times we see how Gilbert’s sharp satire is as relevant today as it was in Victorian times.

Travel with the cast to Venice, Portsmouth, Parliament and Penzance for a glorious romp through some of the best of G&S and they will prove that, above all, love still conquers all!

Tickets are available by phone, in person or online at the venues – Allendale Centre in Wimborne, the Verwood Hub and the Shelley Theatre in Boscombe.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 41

motoring

MOBILE PHONE CRACKDOWN PRODUCES SHOCKING RESULTS Leave your mobile phone alone while driving urge Dorset Police.

This follows a week-long mobile phone crackdown that resulted in them issuing 91 fixed penalty notices – a shocking 87% more than in an average week. It demonstrates the large number of drivers who are still taking no notice of current legislation despite the terrible injuries they can cause to themselves and other people by being distracted by their mobile phones.

Dorset Police took part in the week-long crackdown from 23–29 January. Offenders were reminded of the dangers of being distracted at the wheel and the upcoming legislative changes to mobile phone offences. Motorists caught using a mobile phone at the wheel are currently given three penalty points and a fine of £100. This is set to double under the new rules which are anticipated to come into effect on 1 March 2017.

The changes will have a significant impact on new motorists who will have to retake their test if caught within two years of obtaining their licence. More experienced drivers also risk going

to court if caught twice, with a possible fine of up to £1,000 and at least a six-month driving ban.

Sergeant Joe Pardy, of the traffic unit, said, “This significant increase represents the scale of this issue. We are urging drivers to take responsibility for their actions and leave their phone alone while driving. With constant advances in technology, we are now seeing people not only using their mobile to call but also to text, check social media or stream music while behind the wheel. Nothing is more important than your safety and the safety of other road users and, while you think you can get away with it, it is vital that drivers realise they could kill someone.”

DURING 2015 MOBILE PHONE USE WAS A DIRECT CONTRIBUTORY FACTOR IN THE DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY OF 97 PEOPLE ON OUR ROADS ACROSS THE COUNTRY. A report published by the RAC in September 2016 stated that 31 per cent of drivers now admit

to using a mobile phone when driving, up from eight per cent in 2014.

During 2015 mobile phone use was a direct contributory factor in the death or serious injury of 97 people on our roads across the country.

Sergeant Pardey continued: “While enforcement takes place all year round, recent findings underline the importance of

campaigns that aim to make using a mobile phone when driving as socially unacceptable as drink or drug driving. It is plausible that the percentage of motorists who use their mobile phone at the wheel is even higher than the research suggests, which is why enforcement efforts must be supported by changes in drivers’ attitudes if we are to succeed in keeping our roads safe.”

RATE YOUR GARAGE Did you know there is a motor ombudsman covering the motor industry?

Under the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) scheme, ombudsman services can deal with all sorts of complaints including vehicle sales – new and used – service, repair and vehicle warranties, provided the trader is a member. Most main dealers are members and if dealing directly with the trader hasn’t worked, you could ask an independent person to look at your consumer problem and try and find a solution.

The benefits for consumers are that ADR schemes are usually

free or low cost and simple to use.

Consumers can also ‘rate’ garages too.

So if you have a complaint you can’t resolve, always check to see whether your complaint is covered by an ombudsman scheme or other ADR scheme, before considering court action. Indeed, the courts will have expected you to have explored those routes first before bringing the matter to them.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE ADVICE ABOUT YOUR CONSUMER RIGHTS THEN PLEASE CONTACT THE CITIZENS ADVICE CONSUMER HELPLINE ON 03454 040506.

CHARITY WARNS OF GRIDLOCK BRITAIN New provisional figures from the Department for Transport show that motor vehicle traffic has reached a record high.

In the year ending December 2016 car traffic increased by 0.7 per cent to a record high of 249.5 billion vehicle miles and HGV traffic grew by 2.8 per cent overall to 17.1 billion vehicle miles.

The figures should “give cause for alarm”, says Gary Rae, campaigns director for the national road safety charity Brake.

He said, “These rises are not sustainable. Provisional estimates suggest that both ‘A’ roads and

42 |

4DORSET March 2017

motorways experienced the highest level of vehicle traffic recorded; motorway traffic increased by 2.1% to 67.9 billion vehicle miles in 2016, continuing a long-term trend of increasing motorway traffic over the past six years.

“The figures are heading the wrong way and we’re heading for gridlock. The government needs to get a grip and outline what it intends to do. Back in 2015, during Road Safety Week, we highlighted the lethal consequences of too many vehicles on our roads. The situation is becoming markedly worse.”

specialist services AERIAL & SATELLITE INSATLLERS

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

BLINDS & CURTAINS

DECORATING

DISABILITY PRODUCTS

ELECTRICIAN

FENCING

FENCING

FENCING

GRAPHIC DESIGN

TOYS WANTED

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 43

specialist services FITTED FURNITURE

GARDENING SERVICES

INTERIOR DESIGN

LANDSCAPING

LOCKSMITH

PATIO & DRIVEWAY CLEANING

PLUMBING & HEATING

PLUMBING

44 |

4DORSET March 2017

specialist services

TREE SURGERY

SHUTTERS

TILING SUPPLIERS

TILING

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

WINDOW REPAIRS

WINDOW REPAIRS

WINDOW REPAIRS

TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR ACCEPTANCE OF ALL PAID FOR ADVERTISEMENTS Pulford Publicity Ltd (“the Publisher”) reserves the right to refuse publication of any advertisement without notice or explanation.

Whilst the Publisher will endeavour to represent the best interests of the client in undertaking client’s instructions, it is fully understood that it is the agreed responsibility of the client to supply 4Dorset accurate copy details of the advertisement(s) to be placed and any alterations to the copy must be received prior to copy date.

Guarantee of insertion cannot be given and the Publisher shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of an advertisement or by the total or partial failure, however caused, of publication or distribution of 4Dorset. In no case shall the total liability of the Publisher for any misprint, error or omission exceed the price charged by the Publisher for that advertisement. The Publisher shall not be liable for any damage or loss save as stated and, in particular, the Publisher shall have no liability to the Advertiser in any circumstances for any claim for damages to, loss of, or costs in respect of any anticipated profits, revenues, business opportunities or for any other indirect or consequential loss.

Claims for any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement must be made within 10 days of publication to the Administration Department.

Advertisers are requested to check their advertisements after the first insertion. The Publisher will not be responsible for any errors on subsequent insertions, which have not been advised to them.

Cancellation of an advertisement must be advised in writing 21 days prior to copy date.

Unless agreed otherwise in writing by the Publisher the terms of payment for credit accounts are 10 days from date of invoice. Any discount, which the Publisher may have agreed with the advertiser will be forfeited in the event of failure by the advertiser to meet these credit terms. All rates quoted are subject to VAT at the current rate in force at the time the advertisement appears.

Copyright of advertisements produced wholly by the Publisher belongs to the Publisher. Advertisers may not reproduce such advertisments without the Publisher’s written consent.

Full details of copy dates are obtainable direct from 4Dorset and/or its representatives. The placing of an order for an advertisment shall amount to acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 45

County Council tenants to open their farm for lambing day this Easter Dorset County Council tenant farmers John and Karen Wood are to throw open their farm to the public this Easter to raise funds for the Dorset Youth Marching Band.

The couple, who have run the 210-acre Merley Hall Farm at Ashington near Wimborne for the past 15 years, will be hosting the lambing open day for the public on 2 April.

They run a commercial flock of nearly 2,000 Suffolk, Texel cross and mules on the farm and neighbouring land for meat. They also run a wool collection centre from one of their barns for an Irish company.

Karen, who works three days a week as an animal health officer in the county council’s trading standards department, said

she was looking forward to this spring’s lambing open day – their fifth in what has become an annual event.

“Last year we had between 400 and 500 people attending, and we raised more than £700 for the air ambulance through donations. This year we are raising money for one of the Wimborne Mayor’s official charities – the Dorset Youth Marching Band.

“We will have a number of veterinary students from the Royal Veterinary College, Edinburgh Vet School and Bristol University, who are spending two weeks extramural studies, and will be on hand to answer questions from the public.

“I think it is very important for the farming community to get people to connect with farming and

food. While Dorset is an agricultural county, we get a number of people from Bournemouth and Poole who say they have never seen a sheep close up.”

The couple are also firm believers in educating youngsters about life on the farm. Each year they host year four pupils from Pamphill Primary School, Wimborne as part of

their key stage three curriculum. John also helped out last year on rural affairs presenter Adam Henson’s farm for the televised Countryfile Live event.

Ben Lancaster, Dorset County Council senior estate surveyor, added, “Farm open days are a great opportunity to provide a hands-on

experience for the public and better educate them about farming and the countryside as well as raising the profile of our tenants and the Estate.”

FREEADS Proceed with caution when buying privately. mags4dorset cannot accept any liability for transactions carried out as a result of responding to these freeads.

Brand new Philips hostess trolley, would make lovely wedding present, room needed. £50 ono, Highcliffe. 01425 271461 Ladies new long leather black boots size 5.5, Carvela 15” leg with zips, ex condition £15. Nike men’s leather trainers size 9, wacky design, good condition £12.

Fordingbridge. 07867 813213

Collins hardback SpanishEnglish/English-Spanish dictionary. Over 1,600 pages.

As new, cost £25. Bargain £10.

Bournemouth. 01202 574527 Brand new king-size fitted sheets, rose pink and pale pink, mattress cover – Silentnight. £6.50 each item. Canford Heath. 01202 672862

If you wish to advertise in this section, complete the form and send to mags4dorset, 1st Floor, King George V Pavilion, Peter Grant Way, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9EN. Free insertions limited to two items per person. Trade adverts must be paid for £30 per item plus VAT, max 25 words.

Name:.......................................................................................................................

Address:................................................................................................................... ..................................................................................................................................

Item for Sale (short description max 25 words):.................................................. .................................................................................................................................. ..................................................................................................................................

Price:.........................................................................................................................

Telephone Number:.................................................................................................

DECLARATION: PLEASE CROSS OUT THE STATEMENT THAT DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU AND SIGN THE FORM BEFORE POSTING. I confirm I am not a tradesperson | I am a tradesperson and enclose a cheque for £36 PER ITEM including VAT Signature …...................................................

Date ….............................

TRADESPEOPLE MUST PAY BY CREDIT/DEBIT CARD AT TIME OF BOOKING

46 |

4DORSET March 2017

Tropical fish tank with black wrought iron stand, L30” x H15” x W12” £35. Ringwood. 01425 475154 Baby start car seat 0–4years as new £10. Mamas & Papas baby booster seat £5. West Moors.

01202 890418 BMC electric telescopic hedge trimmers, only used once. £50.

Verwood. 01202 822479 White melamine wardrobe with 2 drawers and top box. Vgc. £60 ono.

Fordingbridge. 01425 655068 Genuine BCi6 Canon ink yellow, magenta, cyan, black. Photo ink Magenta, Cyan. All x 2 boxed, unopened plus nearly full one of each. £50. Verwood. 01202 825471 Yamaha DGX500 digital piano, 88 key with stand, power supply and manual. Vgc. £160. Ashley Heath.

01425 291587 Hayter Envoy 36 electric rotary lawnmower, cutting width 360mm, good working order. £30. Verwood.

01202 813803 Dual settee unit, L-shaped 80” x 66”, brown cord, with 4 seat and 7 back cushions. Seats 5. £100 ono.

Wimborne. 01202 883289

Three 6’x6’ new woven fence panels, surplus to requirements. £45. Verwood. 01202 822812 Cherry wood dining table and 6 chairs, table seats 6-8 and extends to 8-10. Vgc. £200 ovno. Ferndown.

01202 891661 ‘The History of the 2nd World War’ - three Purnell hardback volumes. £10 each ono. Wimborne. 01202 886611 Mirror, framed gilt 27” x 17”, good condition £8. Pair of Celestion speakers good condition £15.

Fordingbridge. 07867 813213 30+ collection of porcelain dolls, large, medium and small. Exc condition but need new home. £75.

Ferndown. 01202 895590 Haynes car repair manuals, good condition/new for most models, for classics, lots of rare and obsolete ones. £7–£10 each. Fordingbridge.

07867 813213 Milenco Original Wheelclamp M15 - solid gold security rating. In very good condition, will fit any 15” wheel and ideal for securing a motorhome or caravan. Comes with spare keys and full fitting instructions. £50 ono (cost new was £137). Verwood. 01202 824910

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news

| 47