4Dorset December 2018 by Dorset View

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4DORSET

December 2018 Volume 16 Issue 5

4DORSET Volume 16 • Issue 5 • December 2018 Hello Readers

Picture of the month

MAGS4DORSET

Remembrance Day was particularly poignant this year and more moving than I expected. It’s always a tough call when I have to run around with a camera at events as it can often remove me from the emotional aspect. This didn’t happen in Verwood. Once Big Ben struck eleven and silence fell, there were many tears silently wept and I, too, found it hard to fight them back. Following Remembrance, there is now a swift run up to Christmas. With this being the December issue, I have virtually celebrated Christmas before it happens. However 2018 is going to be different to those in the past. It will be the first time since I met my husband in 1975 that Christmas will be without my mother-in-law Alma. I know as a family we are going to find this difficult as she hosted Christmas almost every year until she was 104. She would have been delighted to read this magazine, as she was a great fan of 4Dorset. The magazine is packed with Christmassy things, and the sparkle of the festive season even reached the boot of charity queen Samantha Bumford. Turn to page 28 to find out more. Do enjoy this issue and thank you to everyone who sent in their short stories. The entries are truly amazing and this is going to be a difficult competition one ever to judge.

Speak to you again in the New Year, have a truly wonderful Christmas.

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

NEWS DESK 01202 941469 Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Liam Parker assistant editor

DESIGN 01202 233441

Louis Pulford creative director

louispulford@brightboxdesigns.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 Simon Thornton account manager DD: 01202 941470 simon@mags4dorset.co.uk Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

Janine Pulford Editor

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

LOGISTICS

Ian Lory Alexandra O’Neill

A splash of knitted colour © CatchBox 2018

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 Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ Follow 4DORSET MAGAZINE on FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/4Dorsetmagazine/

Copy close date

12 NOVEMBER 2018

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 £40 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. The company’s privacy policy can be read at www.mags4dorset.co uk

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More hurdles for seahorses

Golfers celebrate Moors Valley golf course comeback

Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) still has concerns about the drilling of the Coulter Appraisal Well in Poole Bay, which began last month by Corallian Energy Limited.

his is despite positive comments from Corallian over limiting the dumping of oiled drill cuttings on the seabed in an area with vulnerable features and bird foraging. Following DWT’s concerns, all contaminated cuttings will now be safely disposed of onshore and the drilling will occur during the winter to reduce impact on migratory species, spring and summer time spawning fish and foraging seabirds. But this has not allayed fears by DWT about the remaining drill cuttings that will be discharged on the seabed with the potential to impact on species within the vicinity. Short-snouted seahorses (protected under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981) are recorded within the licensed area in Poole Bay. Experts from DWT are also worried that drilling will

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occur with a potential risk of pollution, albeit small, in such a highly prized natural environment. DWT chief executive, Dr Simon Cripps said, “Poole Bay is not the place for such activities. The time, effort, money and research necessary to conduct such a project would be better used on renewable energy alternatives and not drilling in such a sensitive area.” This is particularly

4DORSET December 2018

relevant just a few weeks after the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued a stark warning on the consequences of carrying on burning fossil fuels as we are today. Peter Tinsley, DWT Living Seas manager says, “Globally we already have enough oil and gas to go way beyond the IPCC target – we don’t need to explore for more.”

Short snouted seahorse © Paul Naylor (www.marinephoto.co.uk/)

Following the shock closure of the golf course at Moors Valley Country Park on 3 October after Mack Trading went into liquidation, Christchurch and East Dorset Councils took quick action. On 31 October, council members supported plans for the golf course to be run in-house and announced the course would reopen to season ticket holders from 6 November and to the pay and play customers from 12 November. Cllr Ray Bryan, cabinet portfolio holder for performance, East Dorset District Council, said, “I am very pleased that the council has been able to react so quickly and effectively to this totally unforeseen occurrence. “We would like to thank local golfers for their patience and understanding through this uncertain time and are pleased we are able to offer a resolution swiftly.” Health and wellbeing activities will also be run

from the golf centre from early next year to combine the two offers that are available to the public. Any local clubs and societies wishing to discuss opportunities moving forward can email golf@ moors-valley.co.uk As a special offer, a round of golf costs just £10 until 31 December 2018. The golf course booking line is 01425 479776. The news of the closure and subsequent reopening reached over 13,000 people on the mags4dorset Facebook page. Comments received included: Hooray! Well done on getting it back up and running so quickly. Val Tucker. Great news, I love the course. Debbie Oaten. I have not played there since the late 90s… but I must say good news for the local community and for all local golfers. Nigel Beattie. Fantastic! Good luck to all. Lynda Notley.

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Canford Magna green belt battle Hundreds of protestors gathered on 10 November in an attempt to ‘Save the Land’ in Canford Magna, Poole.

Believed to be the first protest in the historic village of Canford Magna since 1830, the demonstration was against the proposed release of green belt by Borough of Poole for potential development of 650 houses on land owned by Canford School and Cruxton Farm. Residents were campaigning to encourage local councillors to either reject the Local Plan as a whole or amend it so it excludes the green belt land to the north of Merley. At the full council meeting on 13 November, the vote was 22 to adopt the local plan, 15 against. Having lost the fight to get the Local Plan rejected, residents are determined to fight on through the planning stage. More information about the action group can be found on social media #savelandnorthofmerley or email: savelandnorthofmerley@gmail.com

New Country Park in Christchurch Christchurch councillors were due to receive a report on 21 November on proposals to develop a 15-hectare country park on land stretching from Two Riversmeet Golf Course down to Stanpit Recreation Ground. The report sets out a number of aims for the park with a key focus being on reducing pressure on environmentally protected sites such as Heathlands and Stanpit Marsh, increasing biodiversity and wildlife corridors, and introducing more activities connected with healthy living, volunteering, and appreciation and protection of the environment. Cllr Margaret Phipps, chairman of the Community Committee, said, “The proposals are potentially very exciting and it’s not every day that a council is able to embark on creating a new park.

“If approved, the proposals will mean that the golf course adjacent to the Leisure Centre will be converted to public open space. The report highlights that the course currently only breaks even financially and that golf in the UK is overall experiencing a steady decline in players. However, it also points out that locally golfers have the option of being able to play at the Play Golf Centre, which is also owned by the council.” Should the committee support the proposals a final decision will need to be made at the Full Council

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meeting in December with the further aim of the council carrying out a launch event in March 2019.

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LAW SPOT

Moped riding burglars!

Arranging to spend time with the children over Christmas By Cath Porter, Partner and Head of Family Department, Harold G Walker Solicitors

or most parents, arranging contact with the children over the Christmas period can be a very simple process with both parents being able to agree to the times and dates. However, unfortunately, in some cases this is not so simple and agreeing contact with your ex-partner can be very difficult. There are no definite rules as to how, or when, Christmas contact should take place, each case is different. However, the key consideration is “what is best for the children” and perhaps in some cases it is appropriate to ask what the children would like. It is always best for parents to be pro-active to plan contact over the Christmas period sooner,

rather than later, by either discussing the plans directly, or in writing. Think about alternating Christmas so the children will be with Mum on Christmas Day one year, and with Dad the next. Alternatively, consider dividing Christmas Day between both parents to allow the children to see both. Communication is key to making arrangements, try to put your differences aside and work together. If you cannot communicate directly with your partner, then seek help from a family lawyer who can assist you with this. If, in the unfortunate event contact arrangements cannot be agreed, then both parents may wish to consider family mediation. A trained mediator will be present to assist you and

help guide you towards a mutual agreement. If mediation cannot assist, then you may need to seek the help of a court. However, this should really only be done when all other avenues have been exhausted as court proceedings are timely and costly. If you need advice about family arrangements Harold G Walker’s Family team can help. Please contact Cath Porter on 01202 692448 or email cathporter@hgwalker.co.uk

Law Spot is for guidance only. This column is for information only and does not constitute legal advice

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4DORSET December 2018

Officers investigating a commercial burglary by two men on a moped in Poole have issued a CCTV image of the suspects. It happened around 8.15pm on Monday 29 October at Central Fast Food Supplies on the Technology Road Industrial Estate. Two men riding one moped used their vehicle to ram the doors of the unit and force entry. A quantity of cash was taken from inside the premises. A wing mirror from the moped was recovered from the scene. The vehicle involved is believed to be a black Matador moped. Police Constable Adam Carr, of Poole police, said, “We have been carrying out various enquiries to try and trace the moped involved and identify the men responsible for this offence. “I appreciate their faces cannot be seen but I am hoping that someone might recognise their distinctive helmets and the description of the vehicle used. “I would also like to hear from anyone who may be aware of a moped that was damaged in unexplained circumstances around the time of the incident. “I would urge anyone with information to come forward and contact police.” Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset. pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180175196. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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Looking Forward to 25th year

charity of the year

With 2018 drawing to a close, Forest Holme Hospice is making plans for its 25th Anniversary next year. The hospice is part of Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and is supported by Forest Holme Hospice Charity, which needs to raise at least £850,000 each year to help enhance the NHS provision at the hospice and ensure that Forest Holme is there for patients, their family and friends during the most difficult time of their lives. Paul Tucker, fundraising manager at Forest Holme, said, “We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and support of the local community generated during the last 24 years. We would like to thank everyone for helping us enhance the lives of over 20,000 local people living with a life-limiting illness.” Forest Holme provides end of life care and support to more than 1,000 people each year with advanced cancer and other life-limiting illnesses such as motor neurone disease, Parkinson’s, heart disease and respiratory illness. The hospice has a team of specialist doctors, nurses, counsellors and care teams who provide practical and emotional support for adults of all ages and their families in a variety of settings, such as their own home, nursing home, care home, in hospital or in the hospice itself. Forest Holme also offer counselling and bereavement support to both newly diagnosed individuals and family members. The hospice supports local communities in Poole, Wimborne and the Isle of Purbeck. It appreciates the space given in 4Dorset and Viewpoint each month over the last year to help raise awareness of what the charity does. To support Forest Holme Hospice visit www. forestholmehospice.org.uk

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Brighter look benefits school Pupils and staff at a specialist Dorset school have a more colourful building thanks to their new neighbours. Colten Care’s sister company Colten Developments, has given Langside School a bright new colourful frontage. The spruce-up is part of a series of works being completed in the vicinity of Colten’s forthcoming Bourne View nursing and residential home in Poole. Langside School, run by Dorset charity Diverse Abilities, is also benefiting from new landscaping, railings, flood defences and a contribution towards an improved

sensory room for pupils. School principal, Jonathan Seaward, said, “The new look is brighter and more welcoming for our pupils, families, staff and visitors.” Home manager, Sohail Daniel, said, “We want to be good neighbours with our friends at Langside from the outset and we look forward to a warm, lasting relationship with them.” Langside School provides education, therapy and nursing support for up to 28 pupils aged two to 19. The school was established in 1959.

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend Dine with Diamonds, organised by Broadstone-based Forum Jewellers, raised an astounding £1,556.40 for charity that will go to help a local eight-year-old girl. Fern Harrison has the rare Alexander disease, which affects her ability to walk and swallow, and she cannot lift her head. She is being supported by the Dorset Children’s Foundation, which is Forum’s charity of the year. The event, held at Broadstone Golf Club, saw 82 guests enjoying a buffet and finding out about diamonds from expert and jewellery consultant, Helen Dimmick. Guests were able to handle exquisite and valuable diamond jewellery. The money was raised through a raffle donated by suppliers, and the top prize of a diamond pendant worth £1,000 was won by Jenny Lewis. Helen Molloy, Forum’s director thanked the guests for their generosity, adding, “We received a lovely message from Fern’s family saying they would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone involved and that the money raised by the raffle will be so beneficial for Fern. It was especially significant because Fern lives in Broadstone and this was an opportunity for our community to support her.” The money will go towards buying Fern an electrical stimulation suit, which will make her movement easier and help her sleep.

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4DORSET December 2018

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Princess Royal Training Award for Superior HRH The Princess Royal commended 48 businesses from around the country, including Dorset-based Superior, for their inspirational commitment to learning and development. Superior, a leading manufacturer of o-rings and seals, was invited to a ceremony at St James’s Palace on 31 October to receive its Princess Royal Training Award. The company was commended for its Apprenticeship Academy, which was set up in 2012 to address an ageing workforce and skills shortage in the local area. Superior’s on-site academy offers apprenticeships to students as young as 16 to learn about engineering, science and manufacturing. All apprentices are given the opportunity to gain a degree. Superior’s managing director, Tim Brown MBE, along with ex-apprentice Ben Clarke who is now a senior manager, and Katie Bodman, head of training were all invited to visit the Palace to receive the award.

Brown said, “It was a privilege to be invited to St James’s Palace to be formally commended with other companies across the country that are investing in staff development. It was a real honour to be recognised for our contribution to apprenticeships.” Clarke commented, “We see the benefits from our academy on a daily basis. I feel privileged that week in, week out, I have the opportunity to mentor and develop our apprentices into roles where they can reach their full potential. As a former apprentice myself, and having seen the academy grow from the beginning, I am so proud that we have been recognised by HRH The Princess Royal.”

Tim Brown with HRH The Princess Royal

Poole schools celebrate ‘Choose Respect’ for National Anti-Bullying Week

earing odd socks, poster competitions and mindfulness workshops are just some of the activities that took place across Poole schools to mark National Anti-Bullying Week. The national week took place from 12 - 16 November with this year’s theme of ‘Choose Respect’ led by the AntiBullying Alliance. The aim of the week is to encourage children, young people,

parents, carers and teachers to promote positive behaviour and tackle bullying. Throughout the week and beyond, children of all ages in schools across Poole got involved in the anti-bullying campaign by putting on a host of awareness activities, competitions, workshops and assemblies. Specially-trained student Anti-Bullying Ambassadors was on hand in several schools, allowing students to support each other.

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Bournemouth transforms into a Christmas Tree Wonderland

BCS pupil makes a splash in Manchester

isitors will be dazzled as Bournemouth Town Centre is transformed into a magical spectacle with over 100 glittering trees and illuminations. Opened on 16 November and running through until the beginning of January, Bournemouth’s unique, free, festival trail will start with an illuminated big wheel at the resort’s award-winning seafront, before weaving through the historic Lower Gardens – and features iconic themed trees from cities around the world including Moscow, St Petersburg, Bethlehem, Seattle and Warsaw, as well as a Tree of Light and canopy of cascading lights over Pine Tree Walk. The centrepiece of the attraction is the Bournemouth Wonderland Tree. At the same height as the Angel of the North, this 60ft LED spectacle comprises 30,000 individual lights

programmed for regular sound and light shows. A famously familyfriendly resort, kids will be entertained with a series of enchanting illuminations dotted around Bournemouth - including a giant teddy bear, gingerbread people and a giant bauble, as well as animated polar bears, a snow lion, fairies and elves. There is also a magical Santa’s grotto along the trail in the Lower Gardens, each little visitor receives a magical gift and treasured family photo.

Visitors can also explore the Alpine Market, which is packed with gifts and food to get revellers into the Christmas spirit. To help celebrate the joyous occasion even more, the two-storey Alpine Lodge is back offering a selection of festive hot and cold drinks, with indoor and outdoor seating. It wouldn’t be Christmas without fun on the ice, and once again, visitors can enjoy skating under the stars in the fairytale setting of the town’s Grade II-listed Victorian gardens. ‘SKATE’ is back with the addition of an ice path allowing skaters to venture off the main rink. As well as sponsoring the core offer in the centre of the resort, the support of the Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) guarantees added festive fun, as the magical experiences extend to the Triangle, Horseshoe Common and Lansdowne, plus in the coastal villages, Westbourne, Southbourne and Boscombe.

A Bournemouth Collegiate School pupil became Britain’s fastest under-16 100m breaststroker after breaking six Dorset records in three days. 15-year-old Kayla van der Merwe snagged a new British Junior National Record at the Manchester International Swim Meet with highlights including winning the junior heats in 1:08.14 Kayla van der Merwe and the final in 1:07.21. Kayla broke the record in the same pool as her coach Zoe Baker, who broke the 50m breaststroke world record at the Commonwealth Games in 2002. Both Kayla’s wins broke the Commonwealth Games record achieved by Freya Anderson in 2015 and the Dorset senior and junior records. The swim star also won the junior 200m breaststroke and the 200m individual medley heats as well as taking bronze in the 50m breaststroke. Kayla said, “I can’t believe I am able to say I’ve broken a world record and in the very same pool as my coach Zoe. I’m so grateful for everyone who’s helped with my training and supported me along the way.” Kayla’s winning success took her to fifth in the British women’s ranking and 20th on the GB all-time list. Head Master Russel Slatford said, “We are so proud of Kayla. She shows such dedication to her sport at BCS and we cannot wait to see what the future has in store for her.”

New Bournemouth Coastal BID operations manager The Bournemouth Coastal Business Improvement District (BID) has appointed experienced solicitor and community volunteer Fiona McArthur to the position of operations manager. She said, “Having worked as a solicitor for Fiona McArthur some 20 years, I have decided to diversify and build on my voluntary experience in supporting Bournemouth’s coastal communities. I am now excited to be taking on additional responsibilities and developing new signature events for Coastal BID that attract visitors, increase footfall, and enhance the local trading environment.’’

30 years on the buses Bus driver Stephen Neppiras has been around the block – in fact he’s just completed 30 years working for Yellow Buses and has no intention of pulling on his handbrake for good. He said, “I have seen a lot of change but one thing that has improved are the buses. They are so much easier to drive and the latest ticket machine is the best I have ever worked with. “It has always been a camaraderie job and I have made so many friends.” The popular busman was presented with a certificate by service delivery director Phil Pannell, to mark the milestone.

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4DORSET December 2018

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Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Sandra Grove, with Scout

100 YEARS COMMEMORATED since the end of WW1

Howard and Thomas Bowden, Verwood Beavers

Those who have been lost in battle live in our thoughts forever, we should respect them by maintaining peace for all time. Remembrance services were held throughout the country on 11 November and beacons were lit in the evening to commemorate 100 years since the end of WW1. Here are some local photographs kindly sent in to 4Dorset along with those taken by CatchBox in Verwood where over 2,000 poppies had been knitted by local people to make this year’s Remembrance service extra special. Hundreds gathered for the two-minute silence at the Memorial Stone on Ferrett Green, with many lining the roadside

West Moors Remembrance Parade, courtesy of Roy Setchfield, RBL

Poppy Appeal launch in Ferndown © Tom Scrase

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4DORSET December 2018

after the green became packed. Following a moving service Verwood Town Council thanked residents for knitting the poppies, and Irving and Sons Estate Agents for providing the wool for the community event organised by Clive Grove and Verwood Rotary Club. Donations of £1,000 were made to the Royal British Legion by residents. Services throughout the area were extremely well-attended as young and old gathered to remember those lost in conflicts throughout the world.

Beacon lit in Christchurch © Steve Read, Poppy Appeal Organiser

Wimborne Minster Parade © Gordon Edgar.

West Moors © Roy Setchfield, RBL Follow 4DORSET MAGAZINE on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/4Dorsetmagazine

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Christmas in Wimborne

30 Save the Children Parade

Margery still loves taking part

The 30th annual Save the Children Christmas Parade will take place in the historic town of Wimborne Minster on 8 December.

Founder Margery Ryan, who founded the parade in 1988 said, “Before the days of the parade, children used to walk around the town with collection tins singing and collecting money for Save the Children.” There were such a lot of children that she put

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forward a suggestion that they could parade around the town on foot, but the idea wasn’t accepted. It wasn’t until she suggested they could travel on floats that she got the go ahead. The first snow queen, Eleanor Dunningham, was chosen and the two

4DORSET December 2018

princesses were aged just two and three. Margery recalls, “We had a marching band and about four floats. One was a sleigh with Father Christmas, one carried the snow queen and from memory there were a couple of other floats.

“Since then, the parade has grown into a huge event and the highest number of floats I can remember is 66.” Although Margery no longer organises the event these days, she has very

Founder Margery Ryan with a photograph of the first snow queen and princesses

fond memories of the last 30 years and still helps in the background.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Save the Children annual Christmas Parade 8 December What to expect this year

This year the parade, which has become an essential part of Wimborne’s Christmas celebrations, will have some 50 floats, bands, dancing groups, traction engines, vintage vehicles, walking groups, Father Christmas and the snow princess, Freya Allen. A real community event, it has raised thousands of pounds for the work of Save the Children over the years, helping vulnerable children both here and abroad.

Help Save the Children

Eglantine Jebb the founder of Save the Children, the centenary of which falls next year (2019) said, in the early 1920s, that she was “working towards there being no need for such an organisation” and here we are 99 years later with a world where children are starving, suffering untold horrors due to man’s inhumanity to man. Some children still have no health care or education. “The parade is great fun so please join us and help us to help those children,” said the chairman of the Wimborne event Alison Preston. Tag 4Dorset Magazine on FB: @4Dorsetmagazine

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Christmas in Wimborne

Save the Children annual Christmas Parade

Parade route

The parade usually starts in Brook Road at around 2.15pm and wends its way into the centre of town via Leigh Road, Lewens Lane, Park Lane, East Street, King Street, West Street, through the Square and completing down the High Street.

Where is Santa’s grotto? At the end of the parade, Father Christmas and the Snow Princess will go to the grotto at the Priest’s House Museum. Visitors should use the entrance at the Tourist Information Centre (TIC).

The big bang!

As the darkness draws in a grand finale will be given by Wimborne Militia when they fire their muskets – so bring your earplugs.

Family Advent in Wimborne Square

Come and join in the celebrations in Wimborne Square on Saturday 1 December from 11am-3pm. There will be live music, a treasure hunt for children, free mince pies, a Traidcraft stall selling Christmas food and gifts, and Sasha the donkey with her friend! St John’s Church invites everyone to come along.

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4DORSET December 2018

Charities Fair raises nearly £5,000 29 Local Charities and Organisations, manning 36 tables took part in the Grand Charities Fair organised by Wimborne in Bloom ahead of the Christmas season. Held on 10 November in the Allendale Centre, it raised almost £5,000 for various charities. 1st hamper prize went to Kay Elsworth and 2nd prize was won by Lily Clark and Anne-Marie Clark. Next year’s charities fair will be on 9 November.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

The Great Pudding Stir The Victorian kitchen at the Priest’s House Museum and Garden in Wimborne will be serving up Christmas Pudding on Saturday 8 December from 10am to 4pm. Visitors are invited to take part in the annual Great Pudding Stir as the museum spreads a little festive cheer. The recipe used is taken from the indispensable kitchen bible, ‘Beeton’s Book of Household Management’, edited by Mrs Isabella Beeton between 1859 and 1861.

The original recipe for ‘A Plain Christmas Pudding for Children’ contained 1lb of flour 1lb of bread crumbs ¾ lb of stoned raisins ¾ lb of currants ¾ lb of suet 3 or 4 eggs Milk 2oz of candied peel 1 tsp of powdered allspice ½ tsp of salt

It took five hours to make and would feed nine or 10 children at an average cost of one shilling and nine-pence. Today 8 ounces of sugar is added to make it more palatable for our tastes. Visitors will get a chance to stir a huge bowl of the dry mix and make a Christmas wish, before sampling the final product heated on the Priest’s House coal-fired range. Admission is Adults £1.50 and Children £1 (annual ticket not valid for this event). From the 10 to 22 December (closed Sundays), 10am to 4pm, visitors will be able to celebrate the Christmas period with free admission to the museum. Seasonal refreshments will be available from the Garden Tea Room. For further information please contact the museum on 01202 882533 or visit www.priest-house.co.uk.

- advertisement feature -

The Private Ear Clinic now offer hearing aids and home visits

In June 2018, The Private Ear Clinic opened their 5th clinic location on the high street in Wimborne. Having already been situated in Lymington, Hythe, Romsey and Milford on Sea, they made the big move into Dorset.

Their purpose-built clinic offers a wide range of services including water-free wax removal, hearing tests, custom-made earplugs, tinnitus and hearing therapy and now hearing aids to suit every need. The Private Ear Clinic welcomes walk-in clients on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays between 10am-4pm and can now offer home visits to client’s homes or into care homes. So, if you, your child, your loved one or someone you care for needs a helping hand with their ears, The Private Ear Clinic can help. All their staff are NHS trained and have many years’ experience in all things ears. With their friendly, kind approach and clean, comfortable clinics, The Private Ear Clinic really are a one stop shop for all things ears! Along with free consultations and many 5-star reviews, they offer the above services at very affordable prices. Due to the wide range of services offered, you won’t need to keep searching around many different providers, so you can contact them on 07514 417556, knowing you’re in safe hands.

Quote ‘Wimborne PEC’ when booking your hearing test or wax removal for 2 ears appointment for £10 off. Offer runs until 31 January 2019. Tag 4Dorset Magazine on FB: @4Dorsetmagazine

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health & care

Seasonal Fitness To help you make time for your health during December Ferndown Leisure Centre are offering, from 1 – 31 December, pay the joining fee and get the first month free on premium, swim and gym only memberships.

Premium membership includes:

• Places Locker app - for quick online booking, track your moves, join challenges, download programmes and more • 14 days advanced booking • Your Journey – 3 free one-to-one sessions with a member of the fitness team • Unlimited gym use • Unlimited classes • Unlimited pool use for Just Swim, Fitness and Fun sessions • Free use of SWIMTAG – wearable technology to track your swim performance and stroke • Receive news and promotional offers

Gym only includes: • Places Locker – the centre’s app for quick online booking, track your moves, join challenges, download programmes and more • 14 days advanced booking • Your Journey – 3 free one-to-one sessions with a member of the fitness team • Unlimited gym use • Receive news and promotional offers

Swim only

Included in your membership: • Places Locker app – for quick booking, tracking your moves, challenges, exercise programmes and more • 14 days’ advanced booking • Unlimited pool use for Just Swim, Lane swimming and Fun sessions (does not include inflatable sessions) • Free use of SWIMTAG – wearable technology to track your swim performance and stroke • Receive news and promotional offers

Swim Lessons

Contact the swim admin team if you would like to be a swimmer or a better swimmer.

Ferndown Leisure Centre would like to wish all members and users a very happy and healthy Christmas and New Year. To find out more about the offer or for details about the centre and other activities available call Ferndown Leisure Centre on 01202 877468 email: enquiries@ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk or visit www.ferndownleisurecentre.co.uk.

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4DORSET December 2018

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health & care

Jonathan Holyhead; Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Angus Campbell; shop manager Gary Ward and assistant manager Tracey Hurford

Trust helps charity shop open Talbot Village Trust has provided Dorset Blind Association with £10,000 to enable the charity to open a new shop within Saxon Square, Christchurch. Dorset Blind Association (DBA) opened its first shop in Ferndown last year and has been able to open its second shop in Christchurch’s Saxon Square, due to receiving funding from the grant-giving charity. The shop opening is part of an ongoing programme that aims to have a minimum of six charity shops operating across the county. Jonathan Holyhead, chief executive officer of Dorset Blind Association, said, “We are so grateful to Talbot Village Trust for their kind and generous support of our charity shop project. This project is absolutely crucial to the future delivery of our key community support service, which helps blind and partially sighted people across Dorset adjust to living with serious sight loss. It means that we are able to support those in the community to still lead full, healthy and socially active lives, as independently as they choose. The trust’s donation is an investment which will help us to generate income to fund our services for many years to come, which in return will benefit many visually impaired people in east Dorset.” Talbot Village Trust meets biannually, and is accepting applications for funding. Visit www.talbotvillagetrust.org for more information.

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Clubs in the

community On the weekend Brendoncare Clubs offer a range of activities, including games, quizzes and kurling. As with all Brendoncare’s clubs, members are guaranteed a warm welcome, the chance to enjoy a couple of hours with other people and to make new friends. Loneliness is a real problem today, with over one million older people feeling chronically lonely, and this can have an impact on people’s mental and physical wellbeing. One study has even compared the effects of loneliness to those of smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Brendoncare Clubs runs over 90 groups across Hampshire and Dorset and their weekend clubs aim to focus on tacking loneliness by offering fun and friendship to those who attend. Sam Agnew, head of clubs for Brendoncare, explains, “Weekends can be very long when you have no family or friends around you or if your family are busy with other commitments. Some services close over the weekend and so social opportunities can be limited. Thanks to our fantastic teams of volunteers, our weekend clubs can provide fun and friendship for older people who may otherwise be alone.” Brendoncare welcomes enquiries from new volunteers to help run the clubs. No previous experience is necessary – just a sense of fun and a desire to support the members.

Anyone wishing to find out more about the clubs in the local area can visit www.brendoncare.org. uk/clubs or telephone 01962 857099 for more information.

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health & care

Fire station helps county’s cancer patients A giant tea party organised by the officers of Christchurch Fire Station raised over £1,200 for a local cancer charity.

DCCF trustee Andrea Campbell with Watch manager Matt Kiddell (far right) and other members of the Watch who helped raise over £1,200

h e station in Fairmile Road, held the event for Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF) on 22 September and even heavy rain didn’t deter the crowds who packed the station bay to feast on cakes and take part in a raffle and tombola. Watch manager Matt Kiddell, said, “A lot of work went into organising the event but we never dreamed we would raise quite as much as we did, especially when it turned out to be such bad weather.” He continued, “As well as having a lot of support from the community who came along on the day, we

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4DORSET December 2018

were really impressed by the kindness of local businesses which also got behind us. “Colourstone gave us £100 which paid for all the paper cups, plates and napkins etc, while BH Live, Ringwood Brewery, Two Rivers Meet Leisure Centre and JM Adventures all donated prizes. “The Fire Service paid for all the tea and coffee and the excellent local cake maker Liz Cook donated some incredible cakes. “We also had many more cakes made or given to us by members of the Watch, their families, local supermarkets and members of the

community. “We were thrilled to present DCCF with a cheque, which we hope will make a difference to come of the county’s cancer patients and we have already decided to repeat the event again in 2019.” Dorset Cancer Care Foundation was set up in 2012 and gives grants to Dorset-based patients who are struggling financially. DCCF grants pay for household bills, accommodation costs, travel to and from hospital and much needed short breaks. Trustee Andrea Campbell, said, “We were absolutely bowled over when the Watch told us what they had done for us and how much money the event had raised. They have an excellent standing in their local community and this was shown by the enormous support they received in this event. Their generosity will make a real difference to local families going through some very dark days.” In September DCCF launched the High Five campaign that is urging people to donate £5, every penny of which will go to a local family struggling because of cancer. To donate £5 simply text: DCCF00 £5 to 70070. You can also do something for the High Five Campaign in UK charity Week – 3-9 December. Visit: www. dccf.co.uk to see how you can get involved or apply for help from DCCF.

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health & care

Dolcie’s gala raises £14,000 for children’s heart treatment Family and friends joined forces on 2 November for a gala fund-raising event inspired by the life-saving heart treatment received by a Bournemouth toddler. Two-year-old Dolcie from Throop was born with a serious congenital heart defect which means she faces a series of surgeries just to keep her alive. Dolcie was just eight months old when she underwent her first operation to repair a malformed valve. As her heart grows, she will need further surgery just to keep it working. Her grateful parents Steve Woodhouse and Holly Doick staged a charity gala at the Haven Hotel in Poole to say thank you for the expert treatment and care their daughter has received. The event was in aid of babies with life threatening

heart defects and was attended by more than 200 people, including many members of the local business community. It raised £14,000 for vital life-saving equipment for the children’s heart ward and intensive care unit at Southampton Hospital. Afterwards Dolcie’s mum, Holly, described the evening as “Wonderful” adding, “We are very, very happy. We achieved above and beyond what we expected.” She explained, “There is no cure for Dolcie’s heart defect, only treatment, which means a lifetime of open heart surgeries for our brave little girl. Sadly

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Dolcie will always be in heart failure and therefore her future is uncertain.” She said the fundraising event aimed “to make sure Dolcie’s and thousands of other little hearts keep beating.”

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health & care

The sky is the limit for Cerys

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The Gold Standards Framework

Colleagues at Tops Day Nurseries in Wareham took part in a sponsored skydive to raise money for one of the children in their care.

Bluebird care Ferndown Senior Registered manager Lorraine Maher is an accredited Gold Standards Framework professional trainer, which supports the provision of palliative care in a person-centred, caring and dignified manner.

hree-year-old Cerys Mann was born 10 weeks prematurely and spent the first eight weeks of her life in a Special Care Baby Unit. In April 2017, Cerys was diagnosed with bilateral spastic cerebral palsy, which affects her legs and right arm. Cerys refused to let her disability hold her back despite the physical challenges she faces every day. Her parents have been continually organising fundraising events, to fund an operation called Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy (SDR) which would improve Cerys’s mobility and allow her to be pain free, with a target of £65,000. Three practitioners from Cerys’s nursery, Sara Nel, Kayleigh Budge and Lucy Batterick from Tops Day Nurseries in Wareham, jumped

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4DORSET December 2018

Cerys attended the sky dive

from a plane in order to raise money for Cerys’ charity – Footsteps for Cerys. The skydive took place at Old Sarum in Salisbury and raised a grand total of £1,405. Kayleigh, who has worked in the preschool room at Tops Wareham said “I love helping children with charities and helping to raise money for those that need it. I have had the pleasure of knowing Cerys and watching her grow into a beautiful and strong young girl, I will do all that I can to give her a better life.”

Lorraine brings this dedication and passion to her role and is keen to ensure that the Care Professional teams enhance their skills in palliative care as well as in other fast-changing multi-disciplinaries care activities in the care sector. ‘’Domiciliary care staff play a vital role in caring for people at home towards the end of their life, and providing them with appropriate training is vital for all concerned, especially at this time. The GSF Domiciliary Care Training Programme helps domiciliary carers deliver a ‘gold standard’ of care for all people approaching the end of life at home.” Lorraine Maher Senior registered care manager Bluebird care Ferndown

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New performing arts college course In September 2019, a brand new foundation college will open its doors to performing arts students The Dorset Foundation College for Performing Arts is an elite, private college designed to prepare students for professional training within the performing arts industry. The college offers a one-year full time Foundation Course, with lessons from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, in a friendly and supportive environment where students study classic ballet, tap, jazz, acrobatics, musical theatre, vocal coaching and acting with an emphasis on the exploration and development of technical and performance skills in preparation for full time further education colleges. The one-year course is a platform for students to develop the ability and confidence required for their individual auditions process into Higher Level Performing Arts Education. Examinations are offered through the Royal Academy of Dance, British Theatre Dance Association and London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts; and where required, students will have the opportunity to further their qualifications to Diploma level. Located at the Studio One building on Ferndown Industrial Estate, just off the main A31, the college offers excellent facilities and students will be taught by professionals who are all experts in their particular fields. During the year, students will also benefit from master classes delivered by visiting guest teachers and professionals from within the industry. Dorset Foundation College for Performing Arts is not affiliated to any other full time Performing Arts or Dance Colleges; so are therefore able to provide an impartial opinion as to which colleges are best suited to the individual students. Principal Denise Booth, who has successfully run Studio One (Dorset’s Centre For Performing Arts) for children, students and adults for 38 years said, “This is an amazing opportunity for students. It’s a wonderful chance to prepare themselves for their two or three year courses. All members of staff at the college are highly motivated professionals with an unconditional passion to ensure each student achieves their full potential. Not only will our course deliver lessons in all disciplines, it will also secure a rational understanding of requirements for this industry. Our aim is to create and nurture well-rounded individuals who are bursting with confidence and self esteem.” Entry to the college is by way of audition only and the first auditions will take place throughout January and February next year. All applicants should have a ‘dance’ or ‘theatre’ background. A prospectus and application forms can be obtained from the college office. “For students out of area, we are able to recommend host families where students will live near to the studio,” said Denise Booth. Tag 4Dorset Magazine on FB: @4Dorsetmagazine

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

By Liam Parker and Janine Pulford

hristmas is an amazing time of year for many people. Whether it’s a chance to see family, the joy of giving, a feast, or time for a long awaited break, there are countless reasons why so many of us love this time of year. However, struggling to find the right gift can be a tricky part of Christmas, so here are some ideas on what to buy your loved ones this December.

NEW FOREST TREE OF LIFE

A one stop shop when it comes to shopping at this time of year. A browse of this one-of-akind store will give you all the gift inspiration that you need. From treatments to clothing there is something for even the hardest to buy for and with the gift shop offering 10% off now until 24 December it’s the perfect time to start your Christmas shopping.

THE BRIDGE HOUSE ANTIQUES MARKET

Run by over 70 individual traders, creating their own unique look within their allocated spaces, and with constantly changing stock, The Bridge House Antiques Market is a fantastic shopping destination for all tastes and ages. This fresh and attractive centre, which has also been featured on TV, is open seven days a week from 10am - 4pm. Bridge House also offers a beautiful coffee shop serving hot and cold refreshments, cakes as well as hot and cold snacks. Parking is plentiful either right outside the front of the market, or customers are very welcome to park in the large hotel car park which is located right next door.

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4DORSET December 2018

FOR HIM

A trip is often a good idea when it comes to a Christmas gift. From a weekend away to a brewery tour a present like this suits many, as there are lots to choose from depending on their interests. For those into keeping fit, or just wanting to reduce their carbon footprint, a new bike will likely go down well, from a mountain bike for the fitness fanatic to an electric one for those who just love to get outside. Alternatively you could stick with the classics. A new aftershave, a razor or items of clothing are simple yet great gifts.

CREATION EXPRESS

As Christmas approaches, buying the perfect gift for your friends, family or partner can be a tricky task. When it comes to Christmas presents, many of us want to show how much our loved ones mean to us. What better way to do that than with a personalised gift? Creation Express is on hand to create personalised gifts and cards as unique and special as those receiving them. With a wide range of products and creative ideas available from mugs and coasters to frames and cushions there is sure to be something for everyone. Having been in the UK for 15 years Creation Express is creating one of kind products for customers making sure that every one of them get the gift they want to give, especially at Christmas time. Excitingly Creation Express can now be found in the new Ferndown Post Office and is ideal for anyone looking for a new type of gift this December or looking to make Christmas this year more personal. With baubles, pictures and cushions available you can add personal touches to this time of year even before the big day.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

FOR HER

While leaning towards the classics can also be a good idea here, such as perfumes, cosmetics and jewellery, re-inventing your Christmas gifts can be a nice change. Spa days for your hard working partner or beauty treatment vouchers for that sister who just seems to have everything can be some of the most thoughtful gifts.

WORLDSPAN

Choosing and booking a holiday is not always easy, with decisions about where, how long, hotel or self catering, but for most people it’s the cost and trying to get the best deal for the money available. Another important aspect is: where do I start my holiday from. If you live in the area, it has to be from Bournemouth Airport, or a cruise from Southampton to make it easy and less hassle. There is a huge range of options now available from Worldspan’s local airport. Worldspan Travel Ferndown has been advising and assisting people for over 35 years to get the holiday they want at the price they are happy with. If the course for your particular holiday is not available from Bournemouth, somewhere else will be found.

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Get into the festive spirit WITH RINGWOOD BREWERY Ringwood Brewery is proud to be an award-winning craft beer brewery producing a range of easy drinking beers including Razorback, Boondoggle, Fortyniner, and Old Thumper & Circadian IPA. Keep an eye out for special limited edition seasonal beers throughout the year.

A fully-stocked Brewery Store awaits visitors, packed to the rafters with Ringwood Brewery merchandise, clothing and lots of tasty local produce, some even made using Ringwood beers. The full range of Ringwood beers are available to purchase in bottles or straight from the cask in a range of sizes to take home. Fancy a look behind the scenes? Book on to a brewery tour. Experience two hours of brewing history, an up close and personal look at the brewing process from start to finish and even a chance to sniff the hops and taste the malts. The trip is rounded off with tutored tasting session and chance to browse in the brewery shop where you’ll collect your free Ringwood bottle of beer to take home. Brewery tour vouchers are available to purchase online and in the brewery store, the perfect gift for a beer lover this Christmas.

Get in the festive spirit at Ringwood Brewery’ s Christmas Beer Festival & Family Fun Day on Saturday 15 December from 3pm– 9pm. Featuring over 10 different beers, mulled wine and cider, Christmas songs and activities and much more. Tag 4Dorset Magazine on FB: @4Dorsetmagazine

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

FOR KIDS – TRY A PLASTIC FREE CHRISTMAS

Children are, arguably, the ones who look forward to Christmas the most, especially if they are anticipating a few new toys from Father Christmas or family members. However, it’s easy to forget what most toys are made of today.

Single use plastic is a hot topic lately and while many individuals and companies are changing their behaviours to better the environment, other types of plastic are often being overlooked. Plastic has a purpose because it is durable and easy to keep clean. Toys are not as single-use as a plastic bottle because they are rarely thrown away after one usage, and are often handed down from one child to another, or sold on when they are outgrown. That being said it is true that often these days, children have too many toys and the big day brings more plastic to fill up your home and, sadly, the planet.

WE CAN ALL DO OUR LITTLE BIT FOR A PLASTIC FREE ENVIRONMENT THIS CHRISTMAS. HERE ARE THREE THINGS THAT CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE:

1 BUY LESS

I know this is easier said than done when spoiling children and grandchildren because everyone wants to see the excitement on their faces when they open their presents. But cutting down on the amount of toys bought is a simple way to reduce plastic purchases and do your bit to help save the environment.

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4DORSET December 2018

2 AVOID PLASTIC

Many children’s gifts that contain plastic can be found made out of other, more environmentally friendly materials. Toy swords and trains are frequently made out of plastic and can be easily replaced with wooden alternatives. Other toys such as plastic dolls and figures can also be found made out of less harmful material such as wool and cotton. And don’t forget, you can always give a book or a cuddly toy.

3 A NEW TYPE OF GIFT

Replacing physical gifts with money, vouchers or days out to a theme park can be a great way to not only reduce plastic waste but also extend the Christmas celebrations into the New Year, so reinvent the idea around what is given on 25 December and think beyond toys. A subscription to a wildlife charity, or eco charity could also be something that a child could enjoy all year round and will help them understand the importance of their environment.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

A CHRISTMAS PARTY

While buying gifts for loved ones is a classic way to be enjoying this time of year, so is celebrating it with them. Whether you’re extending the family fun or having some quality time with friends before everyone’s schedule fills up, Christmas parties are great and come in all shapes and sizes. Whether it’s a subtle get together or a big fancy dress occasion, places like Peeks have everything you could need to celebrate the Christmas period however you see fit. From decorations to costumes and a whole section just for children’s parties, planning a Christmas party can be almost as much fun as attending.

Available at Peeks

e-CYCLES CENTRE

Danish design to UK standards and hand built in Europe, the bikes at e-Cycles Centre are covered by industry leading warranties with three years motor cover and up to five years battery cover. Test rides are encouraged to see if these bikes are right for you, enjoy the freedom of a bicycle with power when you need it. Visit e-Cycles Centre to find out more at 729 Wimborne Road, Bournemouth.

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Charity Queen

BLINGS BOOT the eco friendly way By Janine Pulford

When Samantha Bumford was awarded a new title for becoming the highest fundraiser ever in the Miss England competition, she literally had to grin and bear it.

he day before she was crowned Miss South Coast Charity Queen, Samantha broke her foot, but didn’t realise the damage she’d done. In excruciating pain, she attended the charity queen ceremony held at Wallisdown Dental Practice, where Ori Michaeli one of her main sponsors was there to present her with the new one-off title. It was bestowed on her by the Miss England competition for being the highest-ever fundraiser in one year. The phenomenal charity queen has attended more than 600 events raising over £50,000. David Wood from Help 4 Homeless Veterans also attended, as Samantha has been a prolific fundraiser for this charity. After the ceremony, the pain in Samantha’s foot got the better of her and she was taken to hospital for an x-ray to discover she had broken a bone. Once sporting a support boot, Samantha couldn’t waste a moment on recovering. Instead she hopped off to more fundraising events on the following evenings, whilst continuing with her day job as principal manager at Kinder Active Day Nursery in Bournemouth. It was there that Samantha came up with the bright idea to bling her boot.

The children at Kinder Active loved prettying up Samantha’s foot with Eco Glitter Fun’s biodegradable glitter, purchased especially by the nursery owner Sarah Suckling for the photo shoot. Samantha and Sarah wanted to show support for Plastic Free Ferndown community leader Janine Pulford who visited the nursery to photograph Samantha and did not want to encourage the use of micro plastic glitter, which is bad for the environment. “I went to Reading to collect the glitter before the photo shoot,” said Sarah, who was determined to highlight that biodegradable glitter really is fun. Although blinging the boot was a hugely successful activity, Samantha doesn’t recommend breaking a foot to do it, ‘It’s been so painful,’ she said, unable to stop that beautiful smile of hers, which added even more sparkle to the day. Samantha is also Miss Poole 2018

Children getting stuck in

The eco glitter becomes biodegradable in soil, compost or waste water. It is said that over time, it will be metabolised by micro-organisms into carbon dioxide, water and biomass. To find out more about guilt-free sparkles visit www.ecoglitterfun.com/

L-R adults, Sarah, Katie and Samantha (Kinder Active) with children and Hershey

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4DORSET December 2018

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foodie NEWS

Top tencker

Christmasecsra Did Rudolph go to school?

For

ktmas Party o j ris Ch r you

No he was Elf-taught What happened to the man who stole an advent calendar?

He got 25 days What is the best Christmas present in the world?

What do you call a bunch of chess players bragging about their games in a hotel lobby?

Chess nuts boasting in an open foyer

How did Mary and Joseph know that Jesus was 7lb 6oz when he was born?

They had a weigh in a manger.

A broken drum. You just can’t beat it. What’s the most popular Christmas wine?

I don’t like Brussel sprouts Why are there only 25 letters in the Christmas alphabet?

because there’s no L. Who does Santa call when his helpers are ill?

The National Elf Service I wish I could afford Rudolph and Blitzen decorations for my tree this year.

Alas they’re two deer. Why did the Christmas tree lose its job at the blood bank?

It kept dropping needles

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foodie NEWS

Mince pie recipe

For lots of us nothing says Christmas like the food. From Christmas dinner to a box of chocolates, there is so much that we eat and drink that we relate to this time of year. One of the most well-known festive treats, along with Christmas cake, are mince pies. Now a sweet treat, these small pies have a long history and were originally filled with meat. Oval-shaped to represent the manger baby Jesus slept in, the pies quickly became a Christmas party staple, especially for the rich. Mince pies are now more commonly found in circular shape and are filled with delicious dried fruit and spices. While buying them may be easy this time of year mags4dorset has a mince pie recipe for those wanting to make their own.

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4DORSET December 2018

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foodie NEWS

Ingredients The pastry

175g of plain flour 75g of butter 25g of caster sugar 1 egg

1. Add the flour and the butter together, mixing them well. 2. Add the sugar and egg to that mixture, forming a dough. 3. With a light sprinkle of flour on your surface, roll out the dough. 4. Using 2 different size cutters cut 2 types of circle, one for the base and one for the lid.

When it comes to the top of your mince pies, the choice is up to you. If you want more bases than lids, you can leave some pies open on top, allowing for icing. Alternatively an equal number of bases and lids will give you classic mince pies.

Please send us your photos of your mince pies once out of the oven too mags@mags4dorset.co.uk

The mincemeat Making your own mincemeat is undoubtedly the most time consuming part when it comes to making mince pies. Mincemeat can be bought from almost any supermarket, which then gives you the freedom to add certain elements to make it your own. One great way of doing this is by adding a grated apple and a finely chopped orange. Next (if you like) a splash of brandy with the final addition of raisins to stop the mixture becoming too soggy.

Bake at 200Â° degrees until the pastry is golden.

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Plastic Free Ferndown

Champion Awards ARE ON THEIR WAY! Surfers Against Sewage, the charity spearheading the plastic free campaigns throughout the country, is now issuing Plastic Free Ferndown (PFF) with beautiful wooden Plastic Free Champion awards. These will be presented to businesses that make at least three changes towards freeing their business from throw-away plastic. The awards come with a card certificate that you can display too. To help you make changes now, PFF Surfers Against Sewage suggests simple but effective ways to reduce single use plastic: • • • • • • • • •

replace plastic straws with biodegradable ones remove unnecessary bin liners swap to milk in glass bottles (B&B Dairies in Ringwood make deliveries in Ferndown) cut bubble wrap and use paper packaging instead use paper bags instead of plastic ones swap plastic cutlery for metal or wooden cutlery switch to glass bottles or canned drinks avoid the use and release of balloons at your events use pencils more often, to cut down on the use of plastic pens

If you have successfully made three changes or more, contact Plastic Free Ferndown now. The committee will submit your application. Awards will be presented by PFF and mags4dorset will offer free publicity to your business with a shout out in 4Dorset or Viewpoint. Any businesses who would like to be involved in a bulk-buying scheme with other businesses, please also contact PFF with your suggestion. Your plastic free leaders are Janine, Ben and Louis Pulford at mags4dorset and Tony Brown, Y-not Finance. All are contactable through the Plastic Free Ferndown Facebook page, or call 01202 870270. Let us know what you are doing to help your environment.

Molly Guy

Shout outs: Ferndown First School: changed cartons of milk to glass bottles after a pupil appealed to the supplier. The school is a pen recycling point and Ellapouch recycling point. The Eco committee are surveying lunchboxes and encouraging parents to use reusable bottles for water and to label snacks rather than put them in plastic bags. Looking at returning packaging of fruit and veg for possible recycling. Fernhill Care Home, Colten Care: Using magic water in reusable bottles rather than chemical products for cleaning. Swapped plastic straws for paper straws. Reduced plastic bin liners dramatically by removing them from bedrooms. Stopped using balloons. Stopped using plastic cups. Ferndown Chamber of Commerce: replaced poly cups with papercraft cups at the Christmas event.

Eco activity comes to the fore A weekend of events took place recently in Wimborne helping to celebrate all that is happening around the town to lessen the damage being caused to the environment. It started with a showing of the film ‘The True Cost’ about the clothing and fashion industry. This illustrated the huge impact that making one t-shirt or a pair of jeans has on people and the environment. Green Bites took place inside the Minster on 3 November. Several organisations joined the Minster team including Wimborne War on Waste, Friends of the Earth and Dorset Wildlife Trust. There was a series of talks and music covering environmental actions, including alternatives to using disposable and plastic items, recycling, food and economics. Music was provided by St Michael’s School African Drummers, the Quayside Cloggies Band and a duet by Minster Accord. ‘Wonky’ trees were seen leaving the church. Donations will be split between Wimborne Food Bank and Hilfield Friary. In the evening, Muir Miller, of Peel Energy, gave a talk on low carbon energy, with information about how it has evolved from fossil fuels and where the

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4DORSET December 2018

future will take us with renewable solutions. There was also a LOAF (local, organic, animal friendly, fair-trade) supper. As part of the festival, the minster church received the Eco Church bronze award at the Parish Eucharist service on 4 November. It was presented on behalf of Eco Church by David Morgan who encouraged the congregation to work towards a silver award.

You’re never too old to tackle the plastic nightmare

It’s not often that you get so incensed by something that you pick up the phone and make a complaint, but that is what 90-yearold Molly Guy did when the six ready meals she’d ordered from Parsley Box arrived. They were left on her doorstep in a cardboard box. Molly said, “It was rather a large box, but I realised the meals would have to be packaged well.” She was in for a shock when she opened the lid. Inside were sixteen inflatable pouches of air-filled plastic bags holding the meals securely in place. Each meal was in a plastic tray with a cardboard sleeve. “I could not believe the quantity of plastic used to deliver to me alone,” said Molly. She immediately rang Parsley Box to complain and was told that the company makes up to 150 deliveries a day using the plastic packaging. Molly did not discover if those 150 deliveries were in West Moors, Dorset, or the whole country. MAGS4DORSET contacted Parsely Box and were initially told the data wasn’t available on the phone, and an email enquiry was required. So far, there has been no response. But let’s do the maths on 150. 150 x 16 pouches makes 2,400 plastic pouches a day. Parsley Box has confirmed the pouches are recyclable, but that’s a possible 12,000 pouches a week (working on deliveries 6 days a week) of single use plastic that will go straight in the bin. (624,000 a year). “Unfortunately, once you have the plastic-free hat on your head, almost everything annoys you,” said Janine Pulford, a community leader for Surfers Against Sewage Plastic Free Ferndown, “And when Molly rang me to tell me about her experience, I couldn’t get round to her house fast enough. Unfortunately some of the pouches had deflated by the time I arrived, but take a look at the photograph. Using single use plastic for packaging at this rate is verging on the ridiculous. There must be something better for the environment than this.”

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Ironman Richard just keeps running When a doctor advised Richard Fisher to stop running, he had other ideas. The non-executive director of Ferndownbased Zestec, wanted to test himself one last time and took part in his fourth Ironman triathlon, held in Tenby, allowing himself only six weeks to train. The Ironman – a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile bike ride followed by a 26.2-mile marathon – is one of the toughest oneday sporting events. And that’s without serious knee injuries to consider. “I told myself if I could get off the bike, I could do the run, but my back seized up at the end of the bike race and for the entire run it was hurting. I was worrying about my knees but in the end the pain in my back kept my mind off them.” Aged 50, Richard has the kind of lifestyle that makes most people exhausted just to hear about it. He’s usually out running with his dog at 5am and some days he drives to Boscombe, swims from Boscombe to Bournemouth pier and back again before running from Boscombe to Sandbanks and back, before work. His next adventure will be a two-week bike ride in the Himalayas. There is no stopping some people.

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Need help with lasting power of attorney? A lasting power of attorney (LPA) is a legal document that ensures a person or a group of people can manage and make decisions about someone’s finances, property and care needs. Elaine Ewing, Advice Team manager at Diverse Abilities, can help with LPAs. She explains that most people assume their family would be able to manage their finances and care needs if they could not do it for themselves, “but without an LPA in place this is not possible,” she says. The Diverse Abilities Advice Team can help you to decide whether an LPA is right for you, and if so, make the applications and oversee the document registration. There is an affordable fee, and during December 2018 and January 2019, you can also receive 20 per cent off the cost by quoting LPAOFFER. For more information, visit www.diverseabilities. org.uk/advice or call 0300 330 5514.

- advertisement feature -

Charity needs more volunteers! Dorset Rape Crisis Support Centre is seeking to recruit a new team of community fundraisers to help raise awareness and additional funds for the charity. This is an exciting time to join the charity as it continues to grow and expand its services throughout Dorset. The new fundraising team will be involved in a number of different events from local shows to bagpacking in supermarkets. Full training and induction is provided as well as on-going support and volunteer events.

For more information please email info@ dorsetrapecrisis.org on contact Elsa Travers – Fundraising Trustee on 07776 688767.

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Wi n t o n

W o n d e r la n d

Many of the businesses around Winton are getting into the Christmas spirit with their beautiful festive displays. These stores are not just nice to look at though; they offer everything you could possibly need in the run up to Christmas. From food and snacks to gifts and decorations the length of Wintonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wimborne Road has so much in just under a mile. Looking for new decorations this year or looking for unique gifts? Stores in Winton have much to offer. With a wide range of products from homeware to kids toys, finding a present for almost anyone is more than possible. Those who like to look their best before the big day can visit Winton, where salons are ready and waiting to make you Christmas party ready. What would this time of year be without the food? And what would Wimborne Road be without its wide range of fresh fruit, veg and meats? Available all year round and perfect for planning your Christmas dinner ahead, the food stores in Winton are ready and waiting.

Decorations available from Sturtons & Tappers

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4DORSET December 2018

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

The light switch on The Christmas tree lights switch on in Winton will take place on 30 November. The tree, donated by Waitrose, will be lit up on Wimborne Road outside Iceland. The event takes place each year in the busy area of Winton, about one mile north of Bournemouth town centre. With popular shops, cafĂŠs and eateries, the area is a lively place on a regular day and is set to be bustling with locals enjoying the light switch on and will feature carol singers from Winton based Hammond Academy as well as a free raffle for visiting children to enter.

Father Christmas Santa Claus will be stopping by during the light switch to celebrate with those in Winton.

Baubles from Sturtons & Tappers

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around & ABOUT

what’s on

this month 1-2 December 10-4pm

Snow globe- photo experience at the Furlong shopping centre, Ringwood. 01425 475139

1 December 10.30am-1pm

Festive wreath workshop with Tracy Standish at Knoll Gardens £30. Book online at www.knollgardens.co.uk or at the nursery.

1 December 1.30pm

Broadstone Christmas parade – Christmas market from 11am.

1-19 December 10am-4pm daily

CADArts presents at Hayloft Gallery, 14 Wick Lane, Christchurch BH23 1HX. Christmas gifts by local artisans. This is the place to find that unusual gift.

2 December 7.30pm

Blake with their Christmas classics appearing at the Regent Centre, Christchurch. Tickets £23, book on 01202 499199.

5 December 7.30pm

Ferndown French Circle, ‘Soiree de Noel’ avec Jacques Desfontaines – chanteur at the Barrington Centre. Members £3, Visitors £5.

6 December 11am to 3pm

Christmas Fayre at Cherry Tree Nursery– With local produce and crafts, festive refreshments, Christmas tombola and special offers available.

8 December 10am – 5pm

Star Wars fun day – Fordingbridge Town Hall. Adults entry £2, under 13s £1 and under 3s go free.

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

10 December 2.30pm West Moors Horticultural Society Illustrated Talk ‘Dorset Coast Naturally’ by John Coombes at West Moors Memorial Hall.

10 December 7.30pm

Wimborne Horticultural Society meeting with talk by Paul Sturges on Dorset through the year (part two). At Main Hall, Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Members £1, visitors £3.

12 December 10am-1pm

Christmas Snowman Art workshop with Karen Coulson at Ringwood Library. Cost £15. Book on 01425 474255 or online at www.hants.gov. uk/shop.

12 December 2pm

Friends of Red House Museum and Gardens present ‘Exploring the Dorset Stour’ with John Coombes, wildlife photographer. At Priory House, Christchurch. £2.50/£4.50 Friends/visitors. Call 01202 482860 to book.

13 December

‘Blandford Otters and Coastal Cliffs in Summer’ by Dudley Higginson at Ferndown & District Horticultural Association at the Guide Hall, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown BH22 9BZ. Anyone is free to visit for £2. Membership is £8. Tel 01425 276164.

15 December 2.30pm

Regal Cinema family screening of The Polar Express – 35 Shaftsbury Street, Fordingbridge SP6 1JF. Call 01425 652602 or visit www. theregalcinema.org.

4DORSET December 2018

15 December 10am – 4pm

21 December 8pm

15 December 5.55pm

21 December 6pm

Christmas Craft at Shire Hall – Tickets cost £3 per child with all materials included. Suitable for ages 3+, no need to book. La Traviata – Verdi(12A). Met Opera NY. Live broadcast on screen at the Regent in Christchurch. £22. Conc £20. Box office 01202 499199

15 December 11am

Carols in the Corn Market, Wimborne.

21 December – 6 January

Cinderella at the Tivoli Theatre – Box office: 01202 885566.

Shoppers carol service in Wimborne Minster.

15 -24 December

Best Ever Christmas Show – at the Minster Theatre, Allendale Centre, Wimborne. With professional performers and the same strength and ethos of any Christmas show in Dorset, it will be appealing and fun for all the family. Call 01202 887247.

18 December 7.30pm

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

18 December 7pm

BJÖRN AGAIN – Bournemouth O2 Academy.

19 December 7.30pm

New Forest Jazz Workshop at Godshill Village Hall. For further information call 01425 650770 or email hippotrain@btinternet. com.

20 December

The ultimate Christmas retro party – Retro 60s’ night at Highcliffe Sports and Social Club.

Festive charity trail in Poole with Santa and the Hamworthy Fire Fighters. Event in aid of the Forest Holme Hospice charity. Telephone on 01202 670644.

22 December 10-2pm

Christmas farmers’ market – Stock up on fresh, in season, locally produced food, drink and festive treats at the Furlong shopping centre, 01425 475139.

23 December 6.30pm The Minster Carol Service, Wimborne Minster.

31 December 10.30pm The Greatest Showman singalong – a special sing-along to The Greatest Showman comes to The Regent Centre this New Year’s Eve. Adult tickets start at £6.50 and under 16 tickets start at £5.50.

14 January 2.30pm West Moors Horticultural Society illustrated talk “The Shady Garden” by Alan Edmondson at West Moors Memorial Hall. More details: Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536.

16 January-24 March Miracle of Migration exhibition at Durlston Country Park, Lighthouse Road, Swanage.

19-26 January Highcliffe Charity Players present the pantomime Cinderella at the Regent Centre, Christchurch. Book on 01202 499199.

24 December 6pm

Christmas Eve in Ringwood Market Place – Father Christmas visits Ringwood to accept presents rather than give them. Organised by the Rotary Club of Ringwood, this Christmas Eve event has a unique charitable twist and builds on the success of previous years.

28 December 10.30pm -1.30pm

Holes Bay Stroll: from heath to sea – a festive stroll to explore Upton Heath and Woods returning via Holes Bay which will be alive with wintering wildfowl and waders. Contact Ken Yeates at dwtpoole@ hotmail.co.uk

26 January 10.15am West Moors Horticultural Society coffee morning at West Moors Memorial Hall. More details: Sue Hamlett on 01202 871536.

26 January 2.30pm Kiplings India lecture by Andrew Lycett at The Old School, Sturminster Marshall. Tickets £6. Tel: 01258857528.

30 January 7.30pm New Forest Jazz Workshop at Godshill Village Hall. For further information call 01425650770 or email hippotrain@btinternet. com.

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around & ABOUT

A chance to win tickets to Cinderella at COM P E TITION The Regent Centre In this classic story, awardwinning Highcliffe Charity Players return to enchant audiences with one of the nation’s favourite pantomimes, Cinderella. Cinders, the princess to be, attempts to escape from a life of drudgery caused by her evil stepmother and wicked stepsisters. With the help of her fairy godmother and a well-fitting glass slipper, will she win the heart of her handsome prince?

MAGS4DORSET has teamed up with the Regent Centre to offer two tickets to the HCP Panto, Cinderella for Wednesday 23 January at 7.30pm. For a chance to win, all you have to do is answer the following question:

’s What is Cinderella slipper made of?

Santa arrives at Quay

Christmas festivities start in Poole on Thursday, 29 November, as the light switch on takes place at 5.45pm in the Hight Street and brings with it a host of free, familyfriendly events to celebrate the season. Friday, 30 November, when a day of live entertainment and Christmas classics outside the Dolphin Shopping Centre from 11am until 7pm. Following that, a day of children’s entertainment, face painting, games, activities and magic shows will take place on Saturday, 1 December. Professor Bubblewubble will also be performing his live show. The weekend’s festivities culminate with the annual Santa Parade on Sunday, 2 December. Santa will arrive at 11am on Poole Quay, transported by City Cruises, after which the procession will lead through the town to Falkland Square. The Worshipful Mayor of Poole, councillor Sean Gabriel, and Dick Whittington pantomime stars will join Santa on his sleigh.

Enter at www.mags4dorset. co.uk or send your answer on a postcard to CINDERELLA COMPETITION, mags4dorset, Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset, BH22 9BZ. Closing date is 7 January 2019. The first correct entry drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd or the Regent Centre are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. Personal data submitted when entering any mags4dorset competitions will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner of the competition, which will be announced in the magazine. mags4dorset will only retain your personal details for as long as is necessary to process the data and for as long as is reasonably required for its lawful business purposes or to comply with a statutory or other legal requirement. Personal data will be treated confidentially and only the winner’s will be shared.

Last months competition winners were: Christmas Spectacular – Linda Lambert from Wimborne Answer ‘The Glad Rag Production Company’ Quiz Britain – Mrs B Godwin from Christchurch with the answer ‘teacup’ Tag 4Dorset Magazine on FB: @4Dorsetmagazine

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around & ABOUT EXCLUSIVE

inspiration Give-rny-ing When

just keeps

The artist’s (summer) home was restored to its former glory after the Second World War. His bedroom overlooked his colourful gardens.

Monet found inspiration from his gardens and lily pond for more than 20 years

Monet’s workshop/living room

In the summer climbing roses bloom over the arches in the central alley. In the fall nasturtiums are left to grow at will.

Award winning author Judith Silverthorne recently visited Claude Monet’s fabulous home and gardens in Giverny. The editor of 4Dorset invited Judith to share her experience.

Judith writes: I love Claude Monet’s paintings. I have several prints hanging on my apartment walls. I was thrilled to see his home, gardens, lily ponds, and bridges in Giverny recently, 80 km west of Paris. This site is spectacular, even in the fall. Six full time gardeners are kept busy all year round as different flowers bloom throughout the year, all orchestrated originally by Monet. The beauty and peacefulness was exquisite, even with many awed tourists. His home has been preserved and contains his actual belongings in most cases. Only the paintings on the walls are reproductions; the real ones are in museums around the world. Each of the rooms were decorated in a different colour, so vibrant, yet beautiful. Although his large original studio/work area is now a gift shop, the integrity of his home and the gardens is intact and magnificently captures his place of inspiration.

Look at all those copper cooking pans in his blue kitchen

The yellow dining room was filled with family and occasional artist and gardening friends most days. Monet enjoyed having people around though he always arose at 5am and went out to paint alone, returning for lunch.

Judith Silverstone: Pure joy at being present in Monet’s gardens

Judith is a multiple-award winning Canadian-based author of more than a dozen books, many of which are children’s or young adult novels, with one translated into Japanese, plus two nonfiction biographical adult books. Honouring the Bison, her first picture book was released in 2015, with a French translation published in 2016. Her latest novel, Ghosts in the Garden, is a sequel to her juvenile fiction ghost series. See more on her website www.judithsilverthorne.ca.

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4DORSET December 2018

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around & ABOUT Diversity presents

IGNITE The Street Dance Spectacular Canford Park Arena 3 November. Review by Rebecca Pilbeam Photography by Tom Scrase Street dancer, choreographer and actor, Ashley Banjo, created a masterpiece of street dance and circus, which left the audience of 2,000 in absolute joyous amazement. To celebrate almost 10 years since Diversity won Britain’s Got Talent, and 250 years of circus, Diversity partnered with Gandey World Class Productions to present Ignite. This production was an exciting blend of Diversity street dance, and some of the world’s most fabulous circus performers. From street dance, acrobatics, circus magic and the contortion act, to the wheels of death, which really was a breath-taking experience, the show had us mesmerised. There was also Ashley’s very own deathdefying escapes, one from a straitjacket immersed in a tank of water and the other from the claws of death. Music from ‘The Greatest Showman’ was very apt as it really was the greatest show we had seen. Talking to people afterwards, they said it far exceeded their expectations. With seven previous sell-out UK tours, this one most certainly was another production of extreme brilliance.

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in the HOME

Topsy turvy Triangle An extraordinary and exciting new building has arrived in Bournemouth’s vibrant Triangle, the Upside Down House. A hybrid of street art and experiential entertainment, this inverted wooden structure is the first of its kind in the UK, providing visitors with a zero-gravity illusion experience in a safe and family friendly environment. Walk on the ceiling, go downstairs to go up, do handstands on the sofa without taking your feet off the floor and let your imagination run riot. The house is fully furnished, arranged over two storeys and is perfect for quirky photo opportunities. The Upside Down House makes for a perfect pit stop while shopping, on a work break, after a weekend brunch or in between drinks on a night out. Launched on 10 November, this fascinating new installation is also part of Bournemouth’s Christmas Tree Wonderland trail. The house will be in Bournemouth until the end of June 2019 and the interiors will occasionally change. CEO of Upside Down House Tom Dirse, said, “We are extremely excited to bring the first Upside Down House to the UK, specifically to Bournemouth. We’d like to thank Bournemouth Tourism for all its help support and help in bringing this project together.”

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4DORSET December 2018

Snuff out the fire risk

As part of the national fire safety campaign, fire and rescue services across the country are asking people to take care using candles and snuff out the risk of fire in their homes. With winter fast approaching, a few candles scattered round the room can lend a warm glow to an evening in or add some festive cheer to the season’s Christmas season. However candle fires result in over 300 causalities each year and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is asking people to take extra care when using candles this winter. The most important step you can take to keep everyone safe is to ensure your home has working smoke alarms. In order to prevent candle fires from starting, you should make sure to keep candles away from flammable materials like curtains and blinds while never leaving a room without putting out a lit candle. Safe and Well manager Vikki Thomas said, “Candles are a typical sight in many homes, scenting our rooms and giving an atmospheric glow to cold winter nights. But it’s important to remember that a candle is not just a decorative feature. Left unattended, an open flame could leave a trail of devastation. Place your lit candles with extra care, away from anything that could burn as well as out of reach from pets and children. Never leave them alone, even for a moment.”

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in the HOME

Keeping plants alive through the winter By Liam Parker

The spring and summer months are perfect for your houseplants, the humidity and seemingly endless hours of sunshine are plant heaven. You have probably noticed that they flourish during that time of year and maybe even bought a few whilst it was warmer. However, now that the colder and darker months are here (with January, the coldest and darkest month looming) it can be a struggle to keep your plants healthy until things start to warm up again. Before you accept the fate of your houseplants, there are simple tricks that can not only make them last through winter but also keep them looking green and full of life and mags4dorset has three for you:

1. Hold the water

While it is always a good idea to water your plants regularly, most need far less than they do in the summer. This is due to both more moisture in the air as well as the lack of growth plants go through during the colder months. Over-watering when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cold outside can attract bugs and mould which can suffocate your plant.

2. Double up on dusting

Dust build up on leaves can stop plants from photosynthesising. Winter means more dust (people stay in the house more) and less sun, so keeping your plants dust-free is essential to keep them thriving.

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3. Musical plants Finding temporary new spots for the plants in your house is one of the best ways to keep them alive. Places that have the most sunlight during these short days are ideal for your sun loving succulents, or any other type of plant, to grab as much as they can, even if it means moving them between a couple of spots every day.

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in the HOME

Surge in dry rot cases in homes

A national trade body has reported a significant number of dry rot cases in homes. Reports of the fungal timber decay taking hold in properties from members of the Property Care Association have risen and the trade body says a number of factors could be behind the increase. A changing climate, different approaches to property maintenance and watertight building materials are all put forward as potentially contributing to the increase.

Large increase despite hot summer

Steve Hodgson, chief executive of the PCA said, “Our members have reported a large number of cases of dry rot this year. We are looking into the reasons for this, because despite the long hot summer, the issue has continued to develop from the high figures we saw in 2017. “Dry rot’s name can be a misnomer. It needs moisture content in excess of 20 per cent before it will develop, and the source of the problem is excess moisture entering a property.

“While this summer brought record temperatures, we did have a wet start to early spring, with pools of water left behind from the heavy snowfall across the country, so that could be relevant to the increase. However, we’d expect the hot summer to address that. “2017 was particularly wet, and the PCA saw a high level of dry rot, as well as wet rot. “We reported that the mix of rain throughout the summer, combined with mild temperatures, provided the right conditions for wet and dry rot to flourish in that year. “It’s something that we, as a trade body, are keeping a close eye on. As well as changing weather patterns, other factors to

consider include the use of impervious materials in homes for flooring and in other areas, which could lead to issues with fungal decay. A move away from householders undertaking basic property maintenance could also be behind the issue.

“We are keeping a watching brief on the situation and will look to involve our academic partners in researching the issue with our members.”

Check ‘hidden’ places

Both wet and dry rot can appear from nowhere. Often, they start to emerge from hidden places such as behind radiators or under floorboards, leaving householders unaware of the issue for some time.

Don’t leave untreated

If left untreated, wet and dry rot can cause wood to lose its strength and, in some situations, if areas such as floorboards are affected, timber decay can lead to structural dangers. Homes that have been empty and uninhabited for some time are particularly vulnerable. Hodgson added, “Wet rot is caused by wood being in contact with damp masonry. Exposure to high levels of water over long periods leads to a natural breakdown process, as seen in all natural organic materials. “Wet rot is commonly seen on untreated wood exposed to the elements, such as window frames, and it will not spread

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4DORSET December 2018

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in the HOME

beyond the area of dampness. Dry rot presents more of a problem. “Filaments of dry rot fungus are capable of spreading some considerable distance, over and through masonry, to affect timber away from its original source. “However, they can only do this if the masonry or covering plasterwork is damp. “Broken roof tiles, blocked gutters and leaking water pipes, as well as poor ventilation of timber surfaces, can provide sources of excess moisture and basic property maintenance is often all that is needed to dry out the affected timber.”

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Get professional advice If a problem is found it is really important to address the issue promptly. First and foremost, professional advice should be sought to identify whether the issue is wet or dry rot, since they each require different treatments. “Such works should be highly targeted and carried out by experts, such as a member of the PCA,” said Hodgson. “Our professional members have developed methods of repair that ensure minimal impact on the building.”

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specialist SERVICES BLINDS & CURTAINS

DECORATING

BUILDING & MAINTENANCE

BUILDING SERVICES

DISABILITY PRODUCTS

FENCING

GARDENING SERVICES

LANDSCAPING

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4DORSET December 2018

FENCING

GARAGE DOOR REPAIRS

GRAPHIC DESIGN

LANDSCAPING

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specialist SERVICES LOCKSMITH

LOGS

TREE SURGERY

PLASTERING

TILING SUPPLIERS

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGEON

WEB DESIGN

TREE SURGERY

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.

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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.

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motoring NEWS Blown headlight could cost up to £846 A blown headlight bulb can cost up to £846 to replace on some of Britain’s best-selling small cars, new research reveals.

study into 13 popular models on sale today by What Car? found headlight repair bills vary by several hundred pounds depending on whether the models have halogen or HID or LED bulbs. Of the vehicles examined, four came with High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs on some or all trim levels and three had LED bulbs. HID and LED bulbs are far brighter than halogen lights and can last up to 10 times as long, but replacements can cost close to £1,000. The complexity of HID and LED bulbs is partly to blame for the higher costs but in many instances manufacturers have also switched to sealed headlight designs, which cannot be opened up like a normal unit to allow for bulb replacement. As a result, customers have to buy a complete headlight unit to fix a blown bulb. The cost of replacing a traditional halogen bulb on a Volkswagen Polo is just £18. However, buyers who choose the high-spec GTI model face a £846 repair bill for the car’s LED sealed headlight unit.

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4DORSET December 2018

Similarly, Suzuki Swift owners with SZ3 or SZT trim levels only have to pay £4 to replace a blown bulb, while those with a high-spec Swift SZ5 will have to pay £684 for a replacement HID unit. Even if the headlight unit isn’t sealed, HID bulbs are still far more expensive to replace than normal halogen items. The HID bulb for a Vauxhall Corsa Elite costs £317, while a halogen bulb for a lower spec version is just £17. Claire Evans, What Car? consumer editor, said, “The longevity of HID bulbs makes them a viable option on a new car. However, if you are buying a used car as a second household vehicle or as a first car for a son or daughter,

you – and they – could be landed with a massive repair bill for a blown bulb that could even render the car a write-off due to it being uneconomical to repair.” Greg Whitaker, editor of What Car?’s sister title Car and Accessory Trader expects replacement costs of headlight units will fall in the future as the aftermarket sector catches up to the technology, “It’s happened in the past with a number of car parts. The floating speedometer needle in the Mercedes C-Class was prone to breaking and AC Tronics created a fix for this. And the ECU in the Vauxhall Meriva had some fragile components that frequently broke, so a fix for this was also created.”

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