Allendale Magazine | Jan - Mar 2023

How was your 2022? It was the year we witnessed the death of the Queen, the accession of King Charles, heatwaves, more prime ministers and cabinet reshuffles than you could shake a stick at and, further afield, the start of the war in Ukraine.

Two years of Covid followed by national economic challenges have not been easy for a community centre and venue such as the Allendale. It’s a place where people come together - once coming together was allowed again - for friendship, support, education, celebration, entertainment and much more. We’ve survived and a great deal of thanks must go to you, the local community, for your continued support and business. Couldn’t do it without you.

What does 2023 hold? Our established regular events return for the new year, plus some exciting new ones. We’re celebrating Minster Market @ the Allendale’s first birthday. Events wise, we offer a great choice for adults, children and families, including films, live music, dancing, musical theatre, fairs & shows, events for the kids… Read on for more (and remember to subscribe to Allendale Monthly for updates: linktr.ee/Allendale Centre).

Hope to see you soon. Happy new year!

Gary Cox, Editor

Successful events…

Lions’ autumn quiz raises £700+

Thanks to Ron Neave

The Allendale was comfortably full on 30th September when over 100 players attended the first Wimborne and Ferndown Lions’ Quiz at the venue since April 2021. The questions this time were quite varied, some tough, but with one or two soft ones to ease the brain pressure. There were six rounds each of ten questions, plus an introductory picture round (not easy) with teams allowed to choose a joker round for double points.

In the end, there was a dead heat between Marion and Her Helpers tied with the Sod All Stars. The deciding question was ‘How high is the Wimborne Minster tower?’; Marion’s team won with the closest answer.

Another highly successful model railway show

Thanks to David Coasby The Central Southern Gauge O Group (CSGOG) held their annual model railway exhibition at the Allendale Centre in October, where a good selection of layouts, displays and traders were to be found. There was also a good mix of visitors, with model railway enthusiasts mingling happily with local family groups.

The CSGOG meet during the evening at the Allendale Centre, on the second Wednesday of each month. Visitors are always made most welcome. Further details can be found at www.csgog.org

Busy Little Pickles

Thanks to Becky Livesley Little Pickles Markets had two very successful markets at the Allendale this autumn and our events are a great way for families to save huge amounts of money by shopping second hand. We really enjoy meeting our buyers and sellers on market day and by shopping second hand we are able to help the environment by recycling unused baby and children’s items. We’re looking forward to returning to the Allendale on Sunday 5th February 2023 with our winter baby and children’s nearly new sale. To join us at our next Wimborne market please visit our website for further details: www. littlepicklesmarkets. co.uk/dorset

Wimborne Rotary Craft Fair

Thanks to John Gully

The annual Wimborne Craft Fair at the Allendale Centre, organised by Wimborne Rotary at the end of October, proved to be yet another success due to support from both members of the public and the crafters who took space to display and sell their wares. The fair started at 11am, with a steady stream of visitors arriving.

Organiser, Rotarian Sue Young, said afterwards that as a result of the generosity of the public who attended, a total of £450 was donated for Rotary charities, with an additional £200 raised from stallholders for the Shelterbox Pakistan flood relief appeal.

Lunch Club @ the Allendale, Oct, Nov & Dec

Have an event in mind and looking for a venue? See page 38 for examples of events we have or can host. Please see www.theallendale.org for more information, email info@theallendale.org, call 01202 887247 or pop in and see us.

Amongst a busy and successful autumn of events, we hear from just a few of the event organisers.

One of the highly detailed model railways seen at the exhibition.

Simon Yates –My Mountain Life, November

Allendale Christmas Craft & Food Fair, November

Best Ever Christmas Show, December

Fitness, Fun, Friendship

For the best of all worlds, to keep you younger for longer, laughing and enjoying kinship - meet Sue Robathan and MELODIES IN MOTION exercise classes.

Most of Sue's professional life was spent working in health care. Passionate about dance and music, she took on a new lease of life when MELODIES IN MOTION was born. Initially the work involved engaging with residents and enhancing their lives with musical workshops in residential homes.

Aged fifty and recognising the need to be active in later life, Sue embarked on various exercise training courses, including Younger 4 Longer, FLexercise, and Paracise. When Covid struck, Sue had to show her flexibility and adapt her skills to teaching classes online via Zoom. She linked up with a colleague, also a retired nurse, and DOUBLE TROUBLE was born. A new concept, with classes run simultaneously by two instructors - Sue standing and Gill seated - the class, inclusive to all abilities, was an immediate hit and runs today, in person and online.

Sue is now at the Allendale Centre running a Paracise class, with eclectic FAB-U-LOUS original artists’ music that will take you back in time, with some inspirational surprises.

“Classes are joyful, effective and fun. My balance, flexibility and posture are much improved”, JT, a class member. The class is suitable for all people including those with long term health conditions.

Let’s make 2023 a year to invest in your health and well-being – classes from January are on Thursdays at 10.30am. For details, please call 01202 282315 or 07891 622869.

www.melodiesinmotion.co.uk

Singing for everybody with Some Voices choir

With thanks to Louise Taor

Everyone can sing! That’s what Some Voices choir believe and they invite you to join them at the Allendale Centre. There are no auditions, you don’t need to read music or have any singing experience – it’s all about enjoying yourself.

“Every voice is welcome at Some Voices. Singing together is a great way to make friends and de-stress at the end of a busy working day,” says Laura Howe, Musical Director. Contemporary choir Some Voices - known for recent TV appearances on Channel 4’s Last Leg - have choirs all over the country and began here in Wimborne in September 2022. The choir is led by locally based conductor and composer Darren Bartlett, whose works have been performed worldwide. He said:

“I’m a true believer in the gift of music and love sharing my passion and experience. We’ve created a wonderful place for the community to come together and sing without pressure or formality.”

Some Voices is a non-traditional choir where you learn by ear original arrangements of popular songs ranging from pop to rock, indie to disco and more.

“I love coming to choir. You can’t help but leave with a smile on your face. There’s no pressure on how you sing, it’s just great fun,” says Helen, a choir member.

Rehearsals are every Thursday evening at the Allendale. The next term starts in January and new members are encouraged to try out the choir for free in a taster session.

Find out more at somevoices.co.uk/wimborne

Melodies in Motion!

Credit Steve Pringle

Home from Home

– Nadiia’s journey

By Gary Cox

Following the Russian invasion, many thousands of Ukrainians were forced to flee across Europe. When the UK government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme began, British citizens were able to register to offer a home to one or more refugees. Colehill-based Sue Barber was one such citizen, offering 19-year-old Nadiia a safe place to live. Here, Sue and Nadiia tell their respective stories.

Sue’s story

“Each day after the invasion I watched the news and thought of those poor people living in fear and fleeing from the devastation and invading army. It was a ‘no brainer’ when the Homes for Ukraine scheme was announced. I immediately enrolled.

“A good friend of mine was hosting Nadiia’s cousin Vita and, having been through the application process, was able to guide both of us through the process, which was surprisingly simple. I had to apply for a DBS check and Dorset Council came to check my home to confirm that I had the necessary facilities (washing machine, cooking facilities, bathroom etc.) and, after certification that my gas appliances and boiler were safe, Nadiia was on her way!

“Nadiia has fitted into our family so well. She loves my cats – two of which adopted her instantly! She helps me with cooking and household chores and I’m teaching her recipes of good old favourites. She’s also taught me her mother’s Borsch recipe which is absolutely delicious and now on our menu as a regular favourite!”

Nadiia’s story

Hello Nadiia, welcome. For you, how did this all start?

“I was studying journalism at Kyiv University, living in accommodation there. On 24 February, early in the morning, we suddenly woke up to the news of the Russian attack. We had to take shelter in the subway. There was no public transport out of the city so at that time I stayed in Kyiv.”

Nadiia shows me some pictures on her phone: people walking with just their essentials, to escape the invasion; traffic jams full of those with cars or those able to get a lift. We see pictures like this on the news but you get a completely different feeling when you’re sitting opposite someone who was there as it happened.

Where is your family home?

“Just outside Kyiv. The Russians arrived there three days later.”

And who have you left behind? “My mother, my stepfather and my cats. My grandmother lives in the south. My cousin Vita came here sooner than me and lives in Hampshire.”

Are you in touch with your family back home?

“Yes, I am in contact with my mother every day. She’s glad I’m safe here.”

Apart from studying at university, how was your life before the invasion?

“It was great. I had fun and parties with my friends. Some of my friends are now in Germany or Poland. I went to Poland before coming here.”

Do you like the UK, and Dorset? “Yes. The people are friendly. The British like to keep old traditions and there are lots of nice, old buildings.”

At this point, perhaps prompted by mention of ‘old traditions’, Sue tells me she explained November’s Bonfire Night to Nadiia, in advance, but when

a local decided to let off fireworks a few days early – there’s always one, isn’t there? – Nadiia became nervous and upset. We may ‘ooh’ and ‘aah’ at the pretty rockets but if you’ve experienced the real thing causing death and destruction, it can’t be much fun.

What are you doing now you’re in the UK?

“I’m studying online with the university, but…”

She’s looking for the words ‘intermittent’ or ‘sporadic’; her studies are frequently interrupted by power cuts in Kyiv.

Nadiia goes on to explain that she’s also looking for part-time work, to bring in an income and to help improve her English. She also has a local Ukrainian friend and is part of a WhatsApp group with around 30 hosts & guests. At the time of speaking to her, she has no clear date for returning to Ukraine.

Thank you for your time, Nadiia, and good luck.

“Thank you.”

Nadiia with two of Sue’s cats

I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change

Now there’s a title for a musical! It is one of the most successful modern musical comedies, and Wimborne Musical Theatre is delighted to be performing ‘I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change’, in the Minster Theatre at the Allendale in February.

Many of you might say that you’ve never heard of it! All the more reason to come and see it because this show is a very funny, irreverent and, sometimes, very naughty look at love and relationships throughout the course of life – from the perils of the first date, through the trials and tribulations of marriage and family, to pensioners’ pick-up lines!

Mixed with 18 brilliant songs, some that will make you laugh and others that may make you cry, this is a show you do not want to miss!

The show is the second longest running ‘off Broadway’ show ever. It’s been translated into 17 languages for performances around the world, as well as enjoying runs in London’s West End and provincial theatres.

Performances at the Allendale run from Thursday 16th to Saturday 18th February at 7.30pm, plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets are £15 for adults and £13 for concessions. To add to your enjoyment and relaxation, seating will be cabaret style and bar facilities will be available.

Tickets are available at www.theallendale.org/box-office, by phone on 01202 887247 or in person at the Allendale Box Office. The show contains adult themes and language and is recommended for audiences of 14 years and over.

Dance Valentine’s Night Away

20 To 1 Big Band, Wimborne’s premier Big Band, are set to return to the Allendale Centre on Saturday 11th February 2023 with a Valentine’s edition of their popular ‘Dance The Night Away’ series, titled ‘A Valentine’s Evening of Dance’. 20 To 1 will be performing LIVE dance music for you to enjoy - whether you’d prefer to sit and listen or get up on the floor and dance your favourite Boogie, Jive or Waltz routine, the choice is yours!

Throughout the evening, the band will be playing a variety of music styles and genres to suit your dance preference(s). Styles of music they plan to include are Swing from the 1920/30s, Jive, Latin (Bossa, Cha Cha), Waltz and Rock & Pop numbers

from the 50s era. In addition, they’ll also be featuring several Valentine’s themed tunes to mark the occasion.

With their rehearsal venue a stone’s throw away from Wimborne and having performed every year at the Allendale since 2017, the band are looking forward to returning to their ‘home’ venue. So, come and join in for a fun, dance filled evening, where the Big Band will be your soundtrack for the night!

Doors will open at 7.15pm, with music from 7.30pm. The Allendale’s licensed bar will also be available when the doors open. Tickets are £8.50 per person and are on sale from the Allendale: www.theallendale. org/box-office, 01202 887247 or in person at the Box Office.

Thanks to John Bounds, Wimborne Musical Theatre

Thanks to Oliver Bitten

Dirty DC, Tuesday 27th December

2022 sees Dirty DC embark on their 24th year of touring - firmly establishing themselves as one of the top tribute bands in the UK. The last few years, Dirty DC has gone from strength to strength, playing sold out shows around the UK and beyond.

In 2019, the band added a new dimension and drafted in Sean Mulvihill from the States to perform the part of Bon Scott. Sean is often regarded as the world’s No.1 Bon Scott impersonator and the year sees even more Bon Scott/Brian Johnson shows on the ROCKER FOREVER TOUR! See ya all soon!

We love live music at the Allendale and we have some treats coming up – AC/DC tribute Dirty DC, local Ska favourites Ratrace, a night of quality music & laughter with two of the most sought-after entertainers in the UK, Meet Loaf & Matt Black, and R.E.M tribute REMbrandt. Read more from and about the performers, below, get your tickets at www.theallendale.org/ box-office, call 01202 887247 or pop into the Allendale Box Office. Bar open for all events. See you on the night/s!

Ratrace, Saturday 21st January

Ratrace are Dorset’s premier 9-piece ska band and have been entertaining people along the South Coast and more for over 21 years. The band’s set contains a mixture of their own material and classic covers by top bands including Toots & The Maytals, Bad Manners, The Specials, Madness etc.

Ratrace are a high energy, quality, fun band with no dark side or politics. The band play and people dance, as simple as that. The band have previously played alongside artists such as The Beat, The Selecter, From The Jam and more, and have regular appearances alongside ska giants Bad Manners.

We look forward to seeing you all at Wimborne’s finest venue, the Allendale, for a skanking good night. One love, Ratrace.

Meet Loaf & Matt Black, Saturday 11th March

Terry Nash (Meet Loaf) truly possesses the vocal range, power and versatility that combine with his haunting resemblance to the real artiste, creating a high energy performance and accurately re-creating the live performances of Meat Loaf in his prime. Currently starring in the UK touring theatre show ‘Back Into Hell’, this is an entertainer you don’t want to miss.

Matt Black is a comedy pianist who has worked with some of the biggest names in the industry over the years. Known for combining exceptional musicality with real world humour, you are guaranteed to still be laughing long after you’ve gone home!

This is their only confirmed Dorset date for 2023 - you’d be bonkers to miss it!

REMbrandt,

Friday 31st March

We’re REMbrandt, the UK’s only 100% live tribute band playing the hits, album tracks and influences of the American band R.E.M. Fans make the best tribute bands and it’s not all about look-a-likes. We’re fans with the passion and ability to play the music we love. “If you don’t love the music you’re playing, why should the audience?”

Standout tracks include ‘Losing My Religion’, ‘Man On The Moon’, ‘Shiny Happy People’, ‘The One I Love’ and ‘Everybody Hurts’.

www.theallendale.org/box-office

Welcome to the OMA

With thanks to Hangover Ltd.

Welcome to the OMA, Original Music Awards Dorset in association with Absolute Music, the brand new event giving recognition to original music in the Dorset area.

Created by Matt Black and Mel Berkhauer from Hangover Ltd. and founders of Live And Unheard, movers and shakers from the music scene have been invited to collaborate and come together for a very special awards night on 20th January.

The final nominees for these awards have been carefully selected by a panel of representatives who work within the local original music industry. Retailer, recording studios and education provider Absolute Music is the main sponsor and proud to support and encourage its first year. Award sponsors include Sontronics microphones, Lighthouse Poole’s Centre For The Arts, Vocalzone and Musicians Union, with more to be announced.

It’s time for the spotlight to shine on Dorset’s incredible original music scene. This will be a fantastic event as the Allendale Centre in Wimborne is transformed into a rock and roll awards venue. Tickets are £30 each and include a 2 course meal plus admission with entertainment. Tickets are available from www.theallendale. org/box-office, from the Allendale or by calling 01202 887247.

Updates will be released each week via the Facebook page or enquiries can be sent to oma@ absolutemusic.co.uk facebook. com/OriginalMusicAwards

Days are getting longer – venture out for some great events and entertainment! Also see further on for March events...

Events at the Allendale, February

Little Pickles Markets, Sun 5th Feb, 10am

20 to 1 Big Band presents A Valentine’s Evening of Dance, Saturday 11th Feb, 7.30pm

Free Family Film Club, Sun 12th Feb, 10.30am

Lunch Club @ the Allendale, Tue 21st Feb, 1pm

Wimborne Rotary presents Jazz at the Allendale, Mon 13th Feb, doors 7pm

Half Term Fun Kids’ Activities, Wed 15th Feb, 12pm & Sun 19th Feb, 10am

Wimborne Musical Theatre presents I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, Thu 16th – Sat 18th Feb, 7.30pm plus Saturday matinee at 2.30pm

Read on for info about our Regular Clubs & Activities. Tickets for most events from www.theallendale.org/box-office or 01202 887247. Updates on www.theallendale.org, follow us on social media, or why not subscribe to Allendale Monthly e-newsletter? Linktr.ee/AllendaleCentre

DanceAway Social Dance Evening, Sat 25th Feb, 7.30pm

DanceAway Social Dance Evening, Sat 25th March, 7.30pm

Allendale Spring Craft Fair, Sun 26th March, 10am

REMbrandt R.E.M. tribute, Fri 31st March, 7.30pm

Regular activities at the Allendale

Looking for things for you, the kids or the family to do? A range of groups and organisations hold regular, very popular activities at the Allendale. For more info, please see www.theallendale.org, pop in or give us a call on 01202 887247. Activities are weekly unless otherwise stated. Some activities are term-time only.

MONDAYS

East Dorset Parkinson’s Tai Chi Tai Chi for those with Parkinson’s. Tappy Toes

Dancing classes for children aged 6 months to 5 years.

Play Sportz

Fun-filled, sports-based exercise classes for children.

DanceAway Classes for adults teaching ballroom & associated styles. Allendale Bridge Club Bridge players’ club.

((BOUNCE)) Wimborne Mini trampoline fitness classes. The Arts Society Wimborne & Blandford, monthly   Lectures on a range of arts-related topics. Happy Patchers, monthly Quilting group.

Wimborne Horticultural Society, monthly Meetings and presentations on gardening related matters.

TUESDAYS

WeightWatchers (WW)

You’ve got nothing to lose, but weight!

FLexercise

Feel good fitness from head to toe!

Play Sportz

Fun-filled, sports-based exercise classes for children.

Sing Together

Enjoy a variety of different songs each week. All welcome.

Stagecoach Wimborne Quality part-time training in performing arts for children 4 - 18yrs.

Intuition Pregnancy Yoga

Pregnancy yoga classes suitable for all. Lunch Club @ the Allendale, usually Tuesdays, monthly Enjoy a delicious two course meal every month!

Wessex Astronomical Society, monthly To promote interest in the science of astronomy and related sciences.

Wimborne Civic Society, monthly Talks, often on Dorset-related subjects.

WEDNESDAYS

Shining Stars

Drama class suitable for ages 2 to 5. ((BOUNCE)) Wimborne Mini trampoline fitness classes.

Wimborne Guitars, usually fortnightly Learn to play guitar.

Strictly Come Tea Dancing, monthly Come and dance to live music performed by the Soggy Biscuit Dance Band.

Central Southern Gauge O Group, monthly Track nights, video nights and guest speakers.

NHS Blood Donation, monthly (day can vary)

THURSDAYS

Claire Matthews Pilates Pilates strengthens and tones, increases flexibility and realigns your body.

Melodies in Motion exercise class (Thursdays from 2023) Feel Great Music, Movements and Moments. Intuition Postnatal Mum & Baby Yoga Build physical strength and learn breathwork and relaxation techniques to help you thrive.  Wimborne U3A Bridge Club Bridge players’ club. Destined 2 Dance A great opportunity to keep fit in a friendly and upbeat atmosphere!  Some Voices Choir Some Voices is a contemporary choir where everyone is welcome.

Wimborne Quaker Meeting, monthly

FRIDAYS

Minster Market @ the Allendale

Friendly Food Club, fortnightly Dorset SK8 Jam (over 18), monthly from February 2023

Minster Market @ the Allendale Stalls throughout two Halls plus outside areas. Very popular. Friendly Food Club, fortnightly Dorset SK8 Jam (over 18), monthly from February 2023 Roller skating to music.

SATURDAYS

Itsy Bitsy Dance Toddler street dance, 18 months to 5 years. South Coast Academy of Performing Arts (SCAPA) To encourage and nurture the next generation of performers. DanceAway Social Dance Evenings, usually monthly An evening of ballroom and associated styles of dance.

SUNDAYS

Wimborne Quaker Meeting, fortnightly Meeting for worship.

Whet your appetite

The weather may be chilly but there’s always a warm welcome – and lovely hot food – at the monthly Lunch Club @ the Allendale. Menus taking us towards spring are:

Tuesday 24th January – Gammon, parsley sauce, new potatoes and vegetables, followed by Dorset apple cake and custard.

Tuesday 21st February – Roast chicken breast, stuffing, roast potatoes and vegetables, followed by lemon meringue and cream.

Tuesday 21st March – Lasagne, salad and garlic bread, followed by fruit salad and vanilla ice cream. This date also includes free live entertainment.

Tea and coffee are included, with bar open for optional purchases. Tickets are just £9.50 per person and places must be booked in advance, from www.theallendale.org/ box-office, by calling 01202 887247 or from the Allendale. We await the pleasure of your company!

When’s the big day?

Wondering what you’ll be doing in 2023? Not quite up to speed with these new-fangled phone calendars? You need the 2023 Allendale Charity Calendar!

With some beautiful images provided by both regular hirers and event hirers at the Allendale, the Calendar will look great on your wall, provide information about what’s happening at the Allendale and give you space to add in all your own activities. At just £4, all proceeds from sales will go to the WDCA, the charity that manages and maintains the Centre - pick up your Allendale Calendar from Reception now!

What do you know?

Café @ the Allendale are excited to announce that they’ll be holding quarterly quiz nights in partnership with the Wimborne – Valognes Twinning Association.

The quiz will start at 7pm and entry is £2 at the door, open to everyone. Prizes for the winners and wooden spoons for the losers… but it’s the participation that counts! Café open for hot and cold beverages. First date 25th January - look forward to meeting and seeing you there!

What’s on TV?

A load of rubbish despite all the channels? On this occasion, we’re referring to the TV screens in our Reception area, and the answer is… your event or regular activity could be!

We have two wall-mounted, 32” TV screens in Reception, visible to everyone entering through the front doors. One is to advertise Events and the other to advertise Regular Activities. For a small fee we can display your slide, on rotation, for either of these. We just need a good quality jpg, preferably in landscape orientation. See the screens at https://www.theallendale.org/ transitional-slide-display

To find out more or to book your space, please contact Gary Cox at marketing@theallendale.org or Jane Sorrell at info@theallendale.org

News from Planet Wimborne

Trees for Wimborne

Fresh from their success with Wimborne’s Bee Friendly Town award, community group Wilding Wimborne have launched a tree-planting initiative to benefit both people and nature.

And you need look no further than Wimborne’s monthly Repair Café!

A team of enthusiastic volunteer ‘fixers’ will do their best to rescue your precious item of clothing, table-top electrical appliance, bike or small piece of furniture (free of charge but donations welcome). And if they can’t help, they’ll give you some advice and point you to local businesses who can.

Held on the third Saturday each month in the Methodist Church, the Repair Café is part of a global movement – there are over 2,500 worldwide. Wimborne’s was set up three years ago, had to close during lockdown then restarted in September 2021.

“During 2022, we looked at an average of 40 items per session, with 29 either fixed or identified as needing parts or further action,” says Charley Smith, one of the co-founders and current organiser. “That’s 72.5% saved from waste –saving the carbon-equivalent per session of driving 3,962 miles!”

The Repair Café is a lot more than encouraging statistics – it brings people together in a welcoming community.

“I love working in a group and meeting people,” says sewing repairer Isabel.

Chris, who tackles small electrical and mechanical repairs, says, “Often people bring something they’ve had for years which means a lot to them, and you get a real buzz from fixing it and seeing how delighted they are.”

On the mend

The Repair Café will be happening from 12pm–2pm on 21st January, 18th February and 18th March. Refreshments available. Help them to help you by letting them know you’re coming: wimbornerepaircafe@ gmail.com and/or get in touch if you’d like to volunteer.

Trees are vitally important as a food source for bees and other insects: oak trees, for example, support as many as 350 different insect species which, in their turn, are food for other wildlife. Local residents and visitors can enjoy the beauty and shade trees provide, and benefit from their proven positive effects on well-being and stress reduction.

Niki Harper, who heads up the Trees for Wimborne project, says, “Increasing tree cover will take many years, but we’ve started with some planting by the Stour at Brook Road (pictured) and at Dogdean, with saplings provided by the Woodland Trust Community Scheme. We’re also excited to be working with landowners and other voluntary groups to bring Britain’s rarest large tree, the native black poplar, back to Wimborne, using funding from Dorset Community Foundation supported by Wessex Water.”

Want to help? Wilding Wimborne are looking for volunteers to join their team of Tree Champions – to plant trees and to look after the new saplings. If you’d like to be part of this new adventure, contact treesforwimborne@gmail.com

Tree-planting team and some of the saplings at Brook Road

Wimborne’s cycling grandmother

By Philip Burgess | Photo by Grahame Austin

Do you know this lady? You may have seen her as she cycles to work on her smart customised bike. Or, maybe, as she cycles to Ferndown to collect her grandchildren from school. Or several decades ago as she cycled with her own young children to Colehill First School, or even earlier with those same children safely in their seats as she journeyed with them on her bike.

She is Carol Swaffield and I am sitting opposite her in the Short and Sweet café opposite Swaffield’s, her son Paul’s hair salon, in Mill Lane, Wimborne. We are meeting to discuss just why it is that cycling is her ‘go-to’ mode of transport. I’m curious to know just how long she’s been commuting by bike and why she chooses to use the bike rather than the car she owns, even in bad weather. I also want to ask her if she has any suggestions on how we might get more commuters choosing to take their bikes rather than the car.

Carol has “always cycled”. I ask her why she still nearly always chooses to use her bike to get from her home in Stapehill to Wimborne, Colehill, Ferndown and other local destinations. She replies that she loves cycling and she saves a fortune. She often gets into Wimborne quicker by bike than by car! It’s also good exercise and helps her keep fit and healthy. When pushed, she admits to being a bit of an exercise addict on top of all that.

When I ask how she copes in the rain, we go out to her bike, parked nearby. She has ridden in today of course. She shows me the weatherproof box on the back of her bike: it contains her cycling shoes, her bad-weather outer clothing and her helmet, as well as a lock and other bits and pieces. On the handlebars is another cargo bag. Her bike boasts good lights front and rear and Carol is always seen in light coats or tops when she’s cycling.

Our conversation moves to a

discussion as to why more people don’t choose their bike for local journeys. We come to the conclusion that it’s the perception that roads are not safe for cyclists. That puts people off and makes many parents discourage their children from cycling on roads. Only the few who are very confident cyclists feel they are able to switch between the few good cycleways that do exist, to duel with road traffic.

Carol has cycled since she was a very young child. Her daughter, who is also a keen cyclist, has two children who, like Carol, started on two wheels at a very young age. Carol is convinced that getting kids onto bikes when they are young is essential in building the skills and confidence necessary for safe and happy cycling on roads and cycleways. The new

cycleways between Canford Bottom, Wimborne, Ferndown and Longham and beyond have introduced new, well-surfaced and, most importantly, segregated routes for cyclists. You only have to look at how cities such as Copenhagen or Amsterdam have invested in safe cycleways to see the dramatic effect that investment has had on commuting in those cities.

We are facing a climate emergency. There is much that needs to be done to try to stop and then reverse the rise in greenhouse gases. Sometimes we feel that, as individuals, whatever we do is so insignificant it is worthless. But think on. Not only is Carol a splendid ambassador for cycling, she is also an example to us all how we too might, in some small way, help in the battle to tackle climate change.

Wimborne is for Life, not just for Christmas

By Tammy Sleet, Wimborne BID

On behalf of Wimborne’s businesses, we’d like to thank everyone who supported local this Christmas. It’s a littleknown fact that owners of small businesses do a little dance when someone buys from them, and this year there were a lot of dancing feet around town. Christmas provides a wonderful moment to rest and collect ourselves, ready for the cold months ahead until spring.

In business, the months between October and New Year are called the ‘golden quarter’ and in lots of businesses, these are the months that see them safely through the lean winter months into March and April.

At a time when we are all tightening our belts, it’s important to try to support local where we can… you never know, it may work out cheaper – it will certainly be more interesting. To say thank you to our amazing customers, Wimborne businesses will be donating free gifts and money off coupons on Saturday 11th February to celebrate Valentine’s Day. As a way of giving back some of the love you have shown us, we will be on Wimborne Square between 11am and 1pm giving out these gifts to shoppers and visitors in town. We look forward to seeing you there!

Spring-time pet hazards

Thanks to Vetsmiths, Wimborne

After the long winter months, spring is a time for getting out and about, but it’s good to be aware of some of the hazards our dogs can come into contact with. Here are some of the main ones to be aware of:

Adders – after hibernating over winter, they will emerge in the spring. This is the time when the likelihood of being bitten is the highest. Snakes often bask in the sun and an inquisitive dog can stumble on them and easily be bitten.

Lungworm – the wet spring months bring out the slugs and snails who have the potential to carry the dangerous lungworm parasite. Again, when dogs are rummaging through undergrowth or drinking from puddles there is a risk of them becoming infected.

Ticks contain dangerous infectious diseases that can be passed on to both you and your dog. Always check your dog for ticks after walks - these can be removed with a tick hook. Preventative

treatment is always recommended.

Spring flowers can be highly poisonous, whilst others may cause a mild upset tummy. These include daffodils, tulips and spring crocus.

Weedkillers – the type and toxicity of chemicals used to kill plants varies. Most cases of poisoning occur from dogs that brush up against, chew or lick recently treated plants.

Slug bait – another common source of poisoning as these normally contain substances attractive to dogs, like metaldehyde which has a sweet taste.

Household cleaning – spring cleaning means bright, attractive, strange-shaped bottles that may appear interesting to our pets. Always ensure bleaches, oven cleaners, drain cleaners etc. are kept safely out of reach.

If you think your dog has been poisoned, you should contact your vet immediately.

www.vetsmiths.co.uk

Radio Wimborne: Spreading the good news

Thanks to Malcolm Angel

Last year, Radio Wimborne, now on 94.6 FM, won its hard-fought OFCOM licence giving our town’s local station a much-coveted reach into the most heavily populated region of Dorset - from Ferndown to the east, to Poole and Bournemouth in the south – with, of course, the market town of Wimborne Minster and our surrounding villages at its heart.

We were ecstatic, of course. It was a major achievement and a fantastic boost for the community and commerce of Wimborne but we were sober enough to know that whilst we’d proved a good service over the internet for several years, building a regular listenership both locally and on ‘far away’ shores, our next step was to consolidate - and fast - as an established mainstream FM station. At the time, we operated with fewer than 20 dedicated presenters but we’d always known that to give a great service to our FM listeners - and to lighten the load on our, in radio terms, ‘small team’ - we now needed more hands to the pump.

The fact is that if you want to keep a station on air with an interesting and balanced programme of great shows, interviews, local information, humour, music of many genres and all chock full of personality and fun, it is surprising just how many talented presenters a station needs.

That was our task - and now here’s the thing. With the aid of this magazine we went out with an invite for more presenters to swell our ranks - and the most wonderful people came forward. Some came with valuable previous experience, others with a will to be trained by our own seasoned presenters and technicians and I am glad to say that they’re all now on air bringing our listeners great local programmes – and, of course, enjoying the buzz that only comes from driving a radio desk. It’s addictive!

To discover more about our growing range of programmes, go to our website www.radiowimborne. co.uk or visit us on facebook.

Giselle welcomes all to new Weight Watchers Workshop

I’m so excited to be opening a new WeightWatchers Workshop in the lovely town of Wimborne. My name is Giselle and as a WeightWatchers Coach, who is also on my own weight loss journey, I’m looking forward to getting to know a healthier and happier you in 2023. Come and join me and get to know the other members in the Canford Room at the Allendale Centre, every Tuesday morning at 9am. You will be able to share your experiences and get the support you need to achieve all your weight loss and wellness goals for the New Year.

We have a wonderful community spirit and we help you focus on time for you again, with lots of motivation and recipe inspiration, whilst sharing many laughs along the way!

To sign up, simply go to www. weightwatchers.com and select “Premium” membership. You can also just turn up and I can help you get started.

You’ve got nothing to lose, but weight!

Stormy weather ahead

Thanks to Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

Some of the worst storms happen at the start of the year, so here’s some advice from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service on how you can prepare.

• Note down useful phone numbers in case you lose internet access, such as local authority, utility suppliers etc.

• Charge phones, tablets, power banks and other essential devices.

• Prepare an emergency kit, to include a torch, portable radio, replacement batteries, matches and bottled water.

• Make sure bins, garden furniture, play equipment etc. are firmly secured or put away safely to avoid them being blown around and causing damage.

• Wherever possible, park vehicles in a garage, or well away from buildings, trees, walls and fences.

Ideally, it’s best not to travel during a storm but, if you have no choice, leave extra time to do so safely.

• Check your route - road closures will be on social media, local radio and council websites.

• Drive to the conditions - slow down, be aware of side winds, and be extra cautious about debris on the roads and going through standing water.

• Don’t ignore warning signs or road closures - a diversion is better than putting yourself in danger.

Fallen trees are a common problem during storms and windy conditions. Please only call 999 if there is a risk to life - www.dwfire.org.uk/who-to-call-for-storm-damage

During storms, the risk of a power cut is higher than usual, and this can bring other dangers.

• Only use candles if you have no other choice – and ensure they are extinguished when you leave the room or go to bed.

• If the power goes off, turn off electrical equipment, except a light or radio, so you know when power is restored. Switch off electric cooker hobs.

• Never use a camping stove or portable barbecue indoors, as they can produce poisonous carbon monoxide.

If you do lose power, call 105 to contact your local network operator - you can also visit  www.powercut105.com

Evening of Mediumship with Nikki Kitt

Spiritualist Medium Nikki Kitt is

the UK with her successful Psychic / Mediumship Evenings and comes to the Allendale on Friday 17th March.

As a Medium, Nikki aims to provide evidence of life after life by getting links from loved ones in spirit for those in the audience, with amazing accuracy in descriptions, personalities and all sorts of personal information - to give both confirmation and comfort. Nikki says, “I have been aware of spirit my whole life; I have no doubt that we carry on after this physical life and my demonstrations are to prove the same to everyone else.”

Nikki’s visits to the Allendale are always popular so advance booking is recommended. Just visit www. theallendale.org/box-office and tap on the link to purchase your tickets.

Till we see you again…

We hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of the Allendale Magazine.

Looking for a space to hire on a one-off, occasional or regular basis?

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To learn more, please visit www.theallendale.org, email info@theallendale.org or call us on 01202 887247. We look forward to hearing from you!

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