Dorset View November 2020 by Dorset View

Kingfisher Â© Pete Scott

@naturehawk

November 2020 Volume 18, Issue 4

Hospital merger KINGFISHER FACTS

cruise ship entertainer to cob wall builder REMEMBRANCE SCALED BACK

2 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

Picture of the month

Volume 18 • Issue 4 • November 2020

MAGS4DORSET

Dear Readers!

What a busy month we’ve had and we are indebted to the support we are receiving from local businesses. It’s encouraging that locally, at least, there are signs of recovery. We are doing our best to support and promote businesses in return. So do get in touch. It’s all about helping each other in these difficult times. The last thing we want is another lockdown. If everyone follows the rules, we should see the cases of COVID-19 drop. However, there are still people, like the man in the queue outside the chemist who would not wear a mask. He apparently pulled his jumper over his face when he went inside the shop, but is that fair on the lady serving behind the counter or to those in the queue? Please remember your facemask if you’re going out and don’t break the rules. They are there for our protection. We have welcomed Karen back off Furlough recently and I will soon be passing the magazines into her capable hands. I am too used to being at home now. Enjoy this magazine, and please support the advertisers. One thing lockdown has shown me, is that the Internet is not what it is cracked up to be. It’s too easy to fall prey to a scam. Lots of people have chanced their arm buying online during lockdown and regretted it. Shop with your local retailers. They are much more reliable. Until December… Did I really say that? I can’t believe it will soon be Christmas.

Janine Pulford

Ben Pulford managing director ben@mags4dorset.co.uk Louis Pulford creative director louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

NEWS DESK Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk Karen Wyatt-Epapara deputy editor mags@mags4dorset.co.uk

ADVERTISING Mark Beechey account manager mark@mags4dorset.co.uk Simon Thornton account manager simon@mags4dorset.co.uk Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

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 Mike Talbot

Dolphin spotted in Poole Harbour on 18 October © Sam Styles

How to contact us

01202 870270 Email: mags@mags4dorset.co.uk Web: www.mags4dorset.co.uk Twitter: @mags4dorset Facebook: mags4dorset.news Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ Follow us on FACEBOOK:

www.facebook.com/mags4dorset.news/

Copy deadline

6 NOVEMBER 2020

Dorset View 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 Dorset View 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 Dorset View 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

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

Warning about disposal of old batteries By Marilyn Barber

You would be horrified to discover that because of your carelessness you have caused a fire, but this is what could happen if you throw your spent batteries into the waste bin that is set for landfill. Earlier this year, it is believed a battery caused a fire in a refuse vehicle in Ferndown.

Dorset Council’s waste services said that when one of their vehicle’s loads started smouldering and smoking, the driver emptied the vehicle in a nearby car park, and the blaze was put out by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue. A spokesman from the waste service said, “This quick action saved our vehicle. The

fire service didn’t find the cause of the fire, but suggested it could be a lithium battery or something similar. “Please do not put batteries in your rubbish or recycling bin. Use a battery bag or take them to a battery recycling bank." Cllr Toni Coombs, who represents Verwood on Dorset Council, said she was concerned that people weren’t always dealing with their old batteries sensibly. She said, “The pink bags which can be put out with your recycling are available from Verwood Town Council offices.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue put out the blaze after the contents of the refuse lorry were emptied in a nearby car park

4 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Batteries of any kind should never be put in your waste. Apart from the possibility of them causing a fire, they can damage the environment.” Dorset residents can also go onto the Dorset Council website to request a battery bag which will be posted to you. Some batteries contain toxic metals such as cadmium and mercury, lead and lithium, which become hazardous waste and pose threats to health and the environment if they are not disposed of properly.

The blaze after the waste service’s vehicle was seen to be alight and quick thinking workers emptied the contents of the vehicle in a nearby car park

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

Dorset View website takes the lead Lockdown has a lot to answer for and many businesses will be feeling the repercussions for years to come. At mags4dorset, a positive approach was taken throughout lockdown, despite the uncertainty. Firstly, Viewpoint and 4Dorset went online only as it became increasingly difficult to distribute them. Thankfully, they are now being delivered again. Design director Louis Pulford said, “Another positive was that we had the time to develop and rebrand our website and one of our magazine titles.” This is almost in the final stages, with a new website being brought online. MD Ben Pulford added, “The official launch will be at a later date, due to the second wave of coronavirus, which is currently taking hold throughout the country.” But here’s the official announcement from Pulford Publicity:

DORSET VIEW IS THE NEW BRAND WWW.DORSETVIEW.CO.UK It has replaced 4Dorset and mags4dorset and though Viewpoint retains its name, it sits under the Dorset View umbrella. Visit the new website now at www.dorsetview.co.uk The social media platforms should follow suit in the next few months with mags4dorset remaining until a confident transfer can be completed. "Please tell your friends and relatives to switch from visiting mags4dorset.co.uk to www.dorsetview.co.uk and we look forward to strengthening our community links with everyone by using a stronger brand," said Louis Pulford.

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

law spot by Harold G Walker Solicitors Three years in the making, a new Dorset Police boat has been unveiled. The 11m rigid inflatable, ‘Buccaneer’, is being used by specially trained marine police to patrol Dorset’s 98-mile coastline. Tackling criminality on the water, the all-weather vessel will also carry out search and rescue when people have gone missing.

Money matters on divorce – ‘clean break’ and other options

Getting divorced is relatively straightforward, although at best the divorce process currently takes about six months from the start by ‘issuing a Petition’ to the end with the ’grant of Decree Absolute’. (Please note that a new ‘no fault’ divorce process is due to come into effect in England and Wales by the end of 2021, so watch this space!) Regardless of the change in the divorce law and process, sorting out money matters on divorce is more complicated. As far as possible, obligations between you should come to an end within a period of time that is considered ‘just and reasonable’. This means that you should aim to be financially independent of each other with a ‘clean break’ on divorce or as soon as possible afterwards. Therefore, an agreed, legally binding financial agreement, recorded within a ‘consent order’, can be one of many solutions to the equal distribution, or otherwise, of all capital and pension assets, with no ongoing maintenance payments. Other Orders are available… An immediate clean break is harder to achieve when a couple has children. Options that might need to be considered, include: Regular maintenance paid to your spouse for a specific period to provide limited financial support, avoiding ‘undue hardship’, whilst working towards becoming financially independent. ‘School Fees’ orders, if a child attends a privately funded school. ‘Capitalisation’ of maintenance, ie a larger lump sum which the party receiving payment can then drawdown over time to supplement their income. This column is for information only and does not constitute legal advice.

6 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

OBITUARY

– Ian Willis 1951-2020 By Marilyn Barber The people of Wimborne and the wider community have been shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Ian Willis. Ian, whose ‘Secret Garden’ at Serle’s House in Victoria Road, Wimborne, was described by Alan Titchmarsh as one of the ‘ten best gardens in Great Britain’, died suddenly at his home on 5 October at the age of 68. In 2002, Anthony Oliver, who was then chairman of Wimborne in Bloom, asked Ian if he would open his garden to raise funds for the charity. It was described in the programme as ‘The masterpiece of an eccentric’. I visited Ian to give the event pre-publicity and I was so taken by its quirkiness and creativity that I wrote a long article with photos for the Stour and Avon Magazine. The story was picked up by national newspapers and TV stations and in 2003 Ian opened up his garden to raise funds for the National Gardens Scheme Charitable Trust. Since then thousands of visitors have been enchanted with the garden.

Born in King Street, he lived his whole life in Wimborne. His sister Janet Culf said that as children their parents taught them to garden and to do practical jobs such as cooking and sewing. He attributed his love of gardening to Rural Science lessons at Wimborne Secondary Modern School and extra time spent in the school garden. On leaving school Ian trained and worked with the Southern Electricity Board as an electrician before joining CI Electronics of Salisbury as a rep for precision weighing systems. He subsequently started his own interior decorating business. Ian had a lifelong love of the decorative arts, and was always designing and making things to decorate his house and garden. Ian bought Serles House in 1981 and set about transforming the garden which has a huge amount of artefacts including an old copper liner from a wash boiler, a bronze Bog Pool Frog, cannons dragged up from the Solent, old chimney pots and a terracotta rabbit. You get the

picture! He opened up the Victorian house to the public in 2009. Items were collected from recycling and reclamation centres, junk and antiques shops. One of Ian’s prized items of furniture was a George III mahogany dining chair that was once owned by John Stonborough, the grandson of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria, whose assassination in Sarajevo was one of the events that precipitated the First World War. Janet said, “Ian was often called an eccentric in an endearing sort of way. His house and garden became a showpiece open to the public. This was his passion.”

Ian Willis

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

Groyne replacement A scheme to protect our coastline for the next 100 years is underway. The £1.9 million project will see the replacement of eight timber groynes along the Poole/ Bournemouth boundary, to the eastern side of Durley Chine. Five groynes from the boundary to Middle Chine will be carefully deconstructed and replaced with four more evenly spaced ones. This work is due to finish in spring 2021, subject to weather conditions and any COVID-19 restrictions, with work on the remaining four groynes planned to start in autumn 2021. Each new groyne will be constructed using a mix of new tropical hardwood timber and recycled tropical hardwood planking, from previously deconstructed timber groynes. During the works, areas of the beach will be restricted for safety reasons, but access along the promenade will be maintained. In early 2021, the council is also planning to replenish the beaches with sand, from Poole to Southbourne.

8 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Dorset Gardens Trust supports schools

Three schools in the county have been working with Dorset Gardens Trust during lockdown. Allenbourn Middle, Mudeford Infants and All Saints Primary at Bishops Caundle have all benefitted from grants for various projects. The Dorset Gardens Trust funds and supports teachers to create school gardens and to provide training to promote an early interest in gardening. Grants of up to a maximum of £400 are awarded to primary, middle and special schools to fund new projects.

Improvement plans for Boscombe Boscombe is to be given a new look. Bournemouth Coastal BID has secured £65,000 from the government, which will enable the area to have additional seating, permanent lighting and plants. Experts will be brought in to clean the precinct and to remove graffiti and gum. Fiona McArthur, manager of the Coastal BID said the annual lighting scheme would be installed in November and run through the Christmas period until Mother’s Day in 2021. “This will brighten up the area and bring some much-needed seasonal cheer to the shopping precinct,” she said.

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

Fraudster jailed for more than 30 offences

An online fraudster who admitted a total of 33 offences has been sentenced to 32 months in prison. James Lawrence Knight, aged 29 from Wimborne, was sentenced at Bournemouth Crown Court on 18 September after admitting 14 charges of fraud by false representation. He also asked for a further 19 offences to be taken into consideration. A number of the charges related to Knight offering items for sale on Gumtree and other online selling sites and securing payment from his victims but never actually providing the items. On other occasions he persuaded his victims to send him goods, but did not provide the money he had promised in exchange. The offences occurred between October 2019 and March 2020. He was arrested on 6 May 2020.

Zoom shop for voucher winner! Congratulations to Suzanne Taylor who won £150 to spend at the shop, or shops of her choice after taking part in our competition in the September issue of Dorset View. Suzanne lives in Shoeburyness in Essex. She said, “I love entering competitions and when a friend gave me the magazine after visiting Dorset, I went online and entered straight away. “I don’t win often, but the best prize I’ve won so far was a holiday to Costa Rica. It was terrific.” Suzanne will be spending her voucher in Salamander Cookshop in Wimborne, and was very excited to learn that they will do a Zoom shop with her, so although she lives a fair distance away, she can look around the shop to choose her prize. “I need some new pans,” she said. “And have never done a Zoom shop before.” The answer was SMALL BUT MIGHTY.

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

Remembrance across the region Local towns and villages are to mark Remembrance, but ceremonies this year will be scaled back dramatically. These are the details at the time of going to press. Wimborne: There will be a service in Wimborne Minster at 3pm on Sunday 8 November but it is by invitation only as the capacity of the church is just 70 rather than 700. On Remembrance Day there will be a socially distanced wreath laying and short service on the Minster Green, but the public are asked not to attend. Verwood: On Remembrance Sunday a short service will be held at the Memorial Stone on Ferrett Green. The Mayor Cllr Matthew Parker, the Revd Deborah Matthews and a representative from the Royal British Legion will attend with the town clerk. The service will be live streamed on Facebook, and broadcast by Forest FM Residents are asked not to attend the service; however the Memorial Stone’s gates will be open from 8am to 6pm on Sunday for all to lay their wreaths and crosses during the day. West Moors: A small service will be held on Remembrance Sunday at the War Memorial, which is on the Petwyn Village Green, Station Road. The parish council says it will endeavour to honour as many of the

10 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Remembrance Day traditions as possible, but unfortunately there will not be any opportunity for individual organisations or the public to attend or to lay a wreath during the short service; however names of organisations within the village will be read out. If you would like to order a wreath to lay at your own convenience, please contact Roy or Margaret Setchfield on 01202 897984 or email setchfield4@ btinternet.com Ringwood: There will be a film and live stream Remembrance Service at the War Memorial on Sunday 8 November at which representatives from the town council, churches and Royal British Legion will attend. The organisers request that the public do not attend the War Memorial from 10.30am to 11.30am to allow for the service to go ahead. Individuals and organisations wishing to place wreaths and individual tributes at the War Memorial are invited to do so before the service. Followers online will be able to view the service, which will include the Last Post to begin the national two minutes silence at 11am followed by Reveille. A short service will follow with prayers and the laying of two wreaths.

Ferndown: Details not yet finalised. Colehill: Details not yet finalised. Fordingbridge: A small service conducted by the vicar is planned at 11am on Remembrance Day 11 November at Stuckton Road cemetery. An event is also planned on Remembrance Sunday at the Memorial Gates at the Recreation Ground. Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole: On Remembrance Sunday, there will be short private services in each town attended by a small civic party including the mayor. Short private services will also take place in Bournemouth and Poole on Wednesday 11 November, with representation from the armed forces. Members of the public will be unable to attend Dorset Council: will be live streaming its Remembrance service on Facebook from 10.45am on Wednesday 11 November. It will be led by Reverend John Yarrien with a maximum of eight wreaths being laid. Due to COVID-19 restrictions only 14 people can attend and members of the public cannot be invited to the service itself but are invited to join online. The council is also encouraging people to ‘remember on their doorsteps’ on Remembrance Sunday at 11am to mark the two-minute silence.

Veterans in Wimborne Remembrance 2019

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

- Advertiser's announcement -

New independent small animal vets to open in Wimborne Vetsmiths is a new independent small animal vets, which will open in the heart of Wimborne on West Borough in lateNovember. Husband and wife team, Chris and Sam

Devlin are passionate about providing the best possible care not only for pets, but their owners too. They say it’s all about building those special relationships throughout the lifetime

of your pet. “We established Vetsmiths with our fantastic team to give our clients and their animals the best experience. We’ve lived in the area for many years, and wanted a vet that looks after the pets and supports the families of our local community,” says Chris Devlin BVSc MRCVS, director and vet at Vetsmiths. Chris and Sam believe that being independent is the only way to meet the inevitably high standards that pet owners want. Clients will see the same vet, making sure they get the right amount of time

with them on each and every visit. The premises (previously the doctors’ surgery and then job centre) are undergoing a complete refurbishment and state of the art fit-out. There will be separate waiting areas for dogs and cats/rabbits, as well as separate kennelling facilities. Careful attention has been paid to provide the best kennels – no bars in sight. The units are made up using toughened glass

instead of stainless steel, creating a warm and quiet environment to improve and speed recovery. You can find Vetsmiths at 14 West Borough, Wimborne BH21 1NF with ample client parking and disabled access to the rear (entrance opposite The Olive Branch). To be one of the first to know Vetsmiths’ opening date, go to www.vetsmiths.co.uk and register your interest.

Sam and Chris Devlin with 11-year-old Border Terrier, Kipster

Winter preparations will bring spring colour By Plants Direct As seasons move from autumn to winter, the trees and shrubs start to lose their leaves in a spectacular show of golds, reds, oranges and yellows. Beautiful acers, azaleas and shrubs bring a fiery backdrop to gardens, parks and forests. In gardens, your preparations are likely to be underway to plant tubs, baskets and patio planters with pansies, violas, primulas and evergreen and foliage plants for winter colour. You can add spring bulbs for an extra burst of colour for the beginning of the year. There is still time to plant snowdrops, crocus, daffodils, tulips and hyacinths in tubs, planters and borders for colourful displays. Pots of bulbs for indoor flowering can also be potted for Christmas and New Year colours and fragrance, particularly hyacinths, narcissus and amaryllis. Lawns should be raked, forked and repaired. Top-dress with feed and lawn dressing to improve drainage and aeration. Pruning and cutting back of trees, shrubs, roses, perennials can be done. Also pruning of fruit trees and bushes to encourage strong, healthy growth, flowering and fruiting in 2021. Christmas trees start to arrive in nurseries and garden centres in late-November. Potted spruce and firs of many varieties can be readied for the Christmas season to bring cheer on gloomy winter days. Orders for cut trees can be place with Plants Direct, Woodlands Nurseries, for delivery, or collection, with many sizes and varieties available. See accompanying advertisement for contact details.

12 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

MAGS4DORSET

Charity of the Year Bournemouth and District MS Community Hub

Hi there and welcome I do hope October was a good month for you and you had a chance to at least enjoy the late sunshine. Sadly, we missed our usual Halloween Supper and Quiz night in aid of the Osborne Centre. It’s usually a good night with fun and laughter – even some fancy dress – well, I think it’s fancy dress. Unfortunately, due to the coronavirus pandemic, the centre remains closed, but I’ll be shouting from the hilltops when we can get something up and running – well, maybe not hilltops but it will be broadcast far and wide. All our activities are

being scrutinized in line with Health & Safety requirements and we’re aiming to produce a newsletter soon to update everyone on progress. Our Hub is situated at the Osborne Centre, Church Lane, West Parley where we offer local people affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) physiotherapy in a fully equipped gym, craft workshops, library, hairdressing, support and advice. When we return to opening, even if it is in a slightly different way, it will give our disabled members community involvement and their carers some well-

deserved free time. The poetry competition closed on 30 October and I am looking forward to hearing the results. Thank you mags4dorset for running this as a fundraiser for us. We need all the support we can get at this current time. The changeover to us becoming the Bournemouth & District Community Hub has been put on hold until next year. We hope to see you soon, meanwhile our ‘communications’ team continues to keep in touch with members and volunteers for a regular chat. If you need to get hold of us, please ring the number below and leave a message. We will get back to you. Keep smiling! Best wishes Rod Slip Chairman 012002 570300

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 13

pets and wildlife / an animals eyes speak a poweful language.

Super busy birds By Janine Pulford

The eye-catching flash of blue and orange, iridescent in the sun will captivate you from the second you spot this little bird. Living along waterways, the unmistakable kingfisher prefers slow moving or still water. Sometimes it can be seen at garden ponds and occasionally on estuaries and the coast.

Resident in the UK with a population estimated at between 3,800-6,400 breeding pairs, the bird is only about 17cm long. With a name synonymous with its lifestyle, the kingfisher eats mainly sticklebacks and minnows, plucked from the water, but will top up its diet with freshwater shrimps, tadpoles and aquatic insects. Kingfishers find a suitable perch overlooking their stretch of territory, and when they see their prey, they dive into the water, eyes closed by a third eyelid, beak open to catch the fish. Once back on its perch, it will strike the fish against the branch to kill it, so any spines relax and allow the bird to swallow it, head first. A kingfisher must eat at least its

own bodyweight of fish each day. When ready to nest, a pair of kingfishers will excavate a nest burrow in stone-free, sandy soil of a low stream bank. The tunnel can be up to 90cm long and 6cm wide. Kingfishers can have two to three broods, raised in the same nest and lay 6-7 eggs. With each chick eating 12-18 fish a day, the parents are kept super busy. The accompanying photographs including the front cover @naturehawk of Dorset View were taken by Pete Scott

The COVID puppy phenomenon By Lynwood Vets Welcoming a new puppy is a joyful experience. With their devotion and unconditional love, owning a dog is life changing and great for physical and mental wellbeing. It was no surprise that the COVID lockdown saw increased interest in pet ownership. For many it was perfect timing: extra time at home, a companion for loneliness, and emotional support in a world full of worry. This surge in demand resulted in some worrying consequences. The price of puppies has sky-rocketed: crossbreeds that were available for ÂŁ450 pre-COVID were selling for ÂŁ3,000. Inevitably, unscrupulous breeding followed and many owners have sadly been caught out. According to a survey conducted by the Kennel Club, a quarter of new owners admitted they did little research beforehand and a similar proportion admitted they probably bought from a puppy farm. To secure their pup, many paid out before seeing them or their living conditions. Vets are seeing more problems as a consequence. This includes pups brought in from abroad that were too young to travel or had forged paperwork, where the seller claimed they had been bred in this country. Even pups harbouring disease that sadly have sometimes been fatal: imagine how traumatic this would be for your family to endure. The Kennel Club #BePuppyWise is an excellent place to start when looking for a new puppy. Also make sure to talk to your vet before you decide: Lynwood Vets are always keen to give advice on the pros and cons of every breed to help you decide what fits in best with your family.

14 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

Christmas shopping in Christchurch and Highcliffe ARE YOU READY FOR CHRISTMAS?

It might be wise to shop early this year and hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a tip: there are two places on the picturesque south coast that are waiting to welcome you; Christchurch and Highcliffe. The towns are so close itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worth visiting both on the same day, especially as they have such different identities, shops and scenic views and the popular Stewarts Garden Centre, with live reindeer during the festive season, is placed in between the two towns. Christchurch is famous for its magnificent Priory Church, and Highcliffe for its stunning castle overlooking the sea. Shops are varied and there are a number of places to enjoy coffee. If you normally visit at Christmas to enjoy the festive events, you may already have guessed that due to the coronavirus pandemic, this year is going to be different. Turn the page to read more.

Pre-book a visit to Highcliffe Castle online or call 01425 278807

- advertisement feature -

Three signs you might need to talk to someone

Mental health has been widely discussed in recent years. Despite this, many still suffer in silence. Some people think they can't be helped or that their issues are not deserving of attention, while others are put off by long waiting lists. New Horizons Network is a Christchurch-based network of coaches, counsellors and psychotherapists. Founded in 2018 by Debbie Kellaway and Janet King, they are on a mission to make mental health services accessible to all. They describe three common signs you might need to talk to someone: 1. You feel stuck You already know what the issue is; perhaps it's a mental health condition, a relationship or a difficult situation. But no matter how hard you try, you can't seem to get past it. 2. You're struggling with change COVID-19 has changed our lives in countless ways, from how we work to how we shop and how we socialise. This has left many feeling anxious and overwhelmed. 3. You don't feel like anyone understands you It can be difficult to bare our hearts to friends and family, or even to put into words how we truly feel. In this case, speaking to an impartial and experienced professional can be a huge relief. Some people delay seeking help because the task of finding someone who is experienced, qualified and suited to their needs just seems too daunting. New Horizons Network was formed to take away this stress, by providing a network of professionals who are vetted, qualified and insured. Anyone who gets in touch with New Horizons Network is swiftly matched with a professional who suits their specific needs and budget. Sessions can be face-to-face, online, over the phone or through home visits for those who are housebound. To find out more, visit www.newhorizonsnetwork.co.uk or call 01425 277199 please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 15

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising. page 15 Continued from

Christmas shopping in Christchurch and Highcliffe In Christchurch, there was to have been a new ‘living advent calendar’ event and that has had to be postponed. Despite the cancellation, shoppers mustn’t get disheartened. Retailers in Highcliffe and Christchurch intend to be open for business throughout the festive season – subject to government restrictions – and they look forward to welcoming you, as you will see from the advertisements on this feature. Although the organisers of the new Christchurch Living Advent Calendar were sad to cancel, there are already plans in place to hold the event in December 2021 when it’s anticipated that it will see a full 24-day event. A quick look back to the festive season in the area will remind us of the days when crowds weren’t seen as a problem. If you want to shop early for Christmas, pop over to Christchurch and neighbouring Highcliffe and enjoy some retail therapy. With a second wave of the pandemic now underway, government guidelines are constantly changing and must be adhered to. You might, however, find yourself some seasonal face masks, which are sure to be popular presents this year. Anyone wishing to visit Highcliffe Castle will need to pre-book tickets online. For enquiries call 01425 278807.

16 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY - advertisement feature -

Christmas at Stewarts Christchurch

It is with a heavy heart Stewarts have to announce that they will be unable to welcome Father Christmas to their Garden Centres this year. Luckily, Father Christmas will be sending his trusty reindeer to their Garden Centres so, if you’ve been good this year, whisper what you’d like to them and they’ll pass your message back to him. Lapland’s lockdown is due to be lifted on the evening of 24 December so don’t worry, if you’ve been good you can still expect a present this year! Christmas at Stewarts Garden Centres is always very special, with inspirational gifts and decorations, a choice of beautiful flowering plants and a wide range of real or artificial Christmas trees. Between 1 and 24 December receive 10% off all tree lights when you buy a real Christmas tree (voucher valid for day of purchase only and while stocks last). The Stewarts Christchurch Coffee Shop is now open with a limited menu and reduced capacity. New table service procedures are in place which will be explained to you when you arrive. They will be serving a delicious home-made Christmas menu between 12 noon and 3pm from 1 to 23 December. A click and collect and a takeaway service is also available For more information visit www. stewarts.co.uk or call 01425 272244.

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 17

health and care / caring about people is an act of maturity

COVID-19 vaccine trials

-Advertiser’s announcement –

Considering care for a loved one? Find the reassurance you need at Netley Court. Netley Court is an established care home combining superior facilities and design innovations with the very best 24hour residential and dementia care together with the option of short stays. Situated in the delightful community of Netley with sensational

views across Southampton Water, it is a special place where residents can continue to live life to the full, enjoy new experiences and make new friends. An experienced and qualified team strives to make each day special at Netley Court, embracing every opportunity to tailor care to the individual needs, preferences and values of residents.

The Alzheimer’s Society reports that isolation and loneliness in lockdown has caused shocking levels of decline, particularly for people living with dementia. Netley Court aims to create a stimulating atmosphere, which is vital for the health of body and mind. An innovative use of technology enables residents to keep in regular touch with family and friends, but the needs of residents to meet with their loved ones is also vitally important. The dedicated Netley Court Visiting Suite means that this can take place in a safe and comfortable setting.

Peace of mind Faced with the prospect of further restrictions on our everyday lives this winter, many families are choosing Netley Court to look after their loved ones; not only for the friendly environment and personalised care, but also for the reassurance, safety and companionship.

Reassurance and protection Netley Court incorporates state-ofthe-art infection control measures, including the very latest ozone air purifying systems, and the team undergoes regular testing and enhanced infection control training to protect residents and colleagues. It is no wonder that the Care Quality Commission has rated Netley Court as ‘Outstanding’ and it is recognised as a *Top 20 Most Recommended Care Home in the South East for two consecutive years by independent website ‘carehome. co.uk’. *Correct at time of going to press To book your personalised tour of Netley Court, call Kathryn on 02380 984017 or email netley.haa@cinnamoncc.com.

18 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Local people are being invited to sign up for a COVID-19 vaccine trial, which is taking place at University Hospitals Dorset in the new research hub at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital. People aged between 18-84 from all backgrounds are invited to take part, including people with preexisting health conditions. Those getting involved will either receive the Novavax vaccine or a placebo. The vaccine will not give volunteers the virus and volunteers will not be exposed to deliberate infection. Interested? Sign up to the NHS COVID-19 Vaccine Research Registry at www.nhs.uk/ researchcontact.

Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF) staged a two-hour Motownthemed fundraiser on State of the Art Radio in Southbourne hosted by State of the Art Radio DJ Mike Artwell and DCCF ambassador Roy Smoothe. Donors pledged money to have their favourite Motown tracks played. More than £400 was raised. Pictured are Nikki Davies-Thomas, Mike Artwell, Andrea Campbell and Roy Smoothe

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

health and care

Chairman David Moss and chief executive Debbie Fleming cut the cake

Hospital trusts merge New hub will There was substantial opposition by the public to the merger of our two local major hospitals, but it has now happened. Poole Hospital and the Royal Bournemouth and Christchurch Hospitals are now under the umbrella of the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust (UHD). This merger has been nine years in the making, with an earlier proposal prohibited by the Competition and Markets Authority. The new organisation is designated as a ‘university hospital trust’, as it has formalised links with Bournemouth University. The new University Hospitals Dorset employs more than 9,000 staff and has an annual turnover of more than £630m. Each hospital – Poole Hospital, the Royal Bournemouth Hospital and Christchurch Hospital will retain its own name. Debbie Fleming said, “University Hospital Dorset NHS Foundation Trust will be a stronger, more resilient organisation, which means we will be able to deliver much improved services for our patients.” To mark the occasion, a virtual celebration event was held for staff and public, hosted by Debbie and trust chairman David Moss. To support the merger, the hospital has issued new phone numbers to all staff, which will show as calls from 0300 019 numbers, and new email addresses ending in @uhd.nhs.uk. Old and new email and phone numbers will run side by side for the next few months.

improve patient diagnosis

To support COVID-19 recovery in Dorset and to secure over 120 jobs in the healthcare sector, Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) is investing over £2.28 million of government Local Growth Deal funding towards the creation of a new Histopathology Diagnostic Hub at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital. Histopathology is the diagnosis and study of diseases of the tissues and involves examining tissues and/or cells under a microscope. The Dorset LEP investment is for the introduction of a 500m2 high quality histopathology laboratory and support space at the Royal Bournemouth Hospital, which is being supported by a further £20 million match funding contribution by the NHS. The Histopathology Diagnostic Hub will be part of a wider new Pathology Hub in Dorset, which aims to significantly improve patient diagnostic services in the county. The new digitalisation and application of Artificial Intelligence will potentially lead to improved speed and reliability of diagnosis for illnesses. The new Histopathology Diagnostic Hub is expected to be completed and operational in autumn 2022.

Mental health support

Dorset HealthCare is reminding people that a wealth of information on how to combat COVID-19 anxiety and maintain your mental health is available at www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/ coronavirus-1/mental-healthwellbeing-advice. The website also includes information on how to contact mental health services such as Steps2Wellbeing www.steps2wellbeing.co.uk and the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) www.camhsdorset.org People of any age who feel they are in, or approaching, a mental health crisis can access 24/7 support by calling the Connection helpline on 0300 123 5440.

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 19

foodie news / if music be the love of food, play on...

National Cholesterol Month: the benefits of eating oats Heart Research UK Healthy Heart Tip, written by Dr Helen Flaherty, Head of Health Promotion at Heart Research UK Did you know that October was National Cholesterol Month? Cholesterol is a fatty substance, which is needed

in the cells of your body. Too much cholesterol in your blood can lead to a build-up in your arteries, which increases your

risk of having a heart attack. Eating a healthy, well-balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and high in fibre is a good way to keep your cholesterol healthy. Oats contain a type of soluble fibre known as beta-glucan, which can help to lower your cholesterol. In this healthy heart tip, Dr Helen Flaherty provides some ideas for increasing your consumption of oats. Start your day with a warm bowl of porridge As the weather gets cooler, you could start your day with a comforting bowl of warm porridge. Rather than adding sugar, honey, jam or syrup to your porridge, you could try adding fruit, such as berries, chopped apple or sliced banana and a sprinkling of chopped nuts, seeds or cinnamon. Save time in the mornings by preparing an oaty breakfast the night before If warm porridge is not your thing, you could try starting

20 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

your day with Bircher. Bircher is made by soaking oatmeal overnight in yogurt and adding fruit, nuts and/or seeds. Add oatmeal or oatbran to soups and casseroles You can get more oats in your diet by adding oatmeal or oatbran to soups and casseroles. This will increase the amount of fibre as well as helping to thicken your soups and casseroles. Swap wheat crackers for oatcakes If you tend to choose wheat crackers with your cheese, why not switch to oatcakes instead. You could also reduce your saturated fat intake by having a low fat cheese spread on your oatcakes, rather than a hard cheese, such as cheddar. Hard cheeses tend to be high in saturated fat, which can raise your cholesterol. You can find more healthy tips, recipes and advice at heartresearch.org.uk.

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

foodie news

Enjoy a socially distanced dinner party Hosting an intimate black tie dinner for which you have to do no cooking sounds like a dream come true. And with the aim of raising funds for a disability charity – Diverse Abilities – it is a win, win situation. Groups of up to six can book from two ticket types for the event on 28 November £50 for a three-course meal and a cocktail, or £15 for a cocktail. Both give access to additional online content and entertainment suggestions, including an online auction and pre-recorded music performances. The meals and

drinks will be delivered directly to the host’s home, complete with reheating instructions and serving suggestions. Hosts can also purchase a Lucky Envelope for each of their guests to give them the chance to win from a selection of prizes. Should the guidelines be amended prior to the event taking place, all hosts will be contacted to arrange further delivery details for their guests. Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/cdwu for more information and to book tickets. Delivery is only available within Dorset.

- advertisement feature -

Taj Restaurant of Corfe Mullen celebrates 20-year anniversary

Taj Restaurant is celebrating a huge milestone in Corfe Mullen. Taj, who manages front of house, and his head chef, who happens to be one of his brothers, along with the team, want to say a big thank you to their customers for supporting them for the last 20 years. The Indian restaurant has been a big hit ever since it opened its doors to the community of Corfe Mullen in November 2000, which is hardly surprising because it was, and still is, run by the same family who own the popular Wimborne Tandoori Restaurant. Led by three brothers, the family-run restaurants embrace the flavours of India and draw customers from miles around. To celebrate the Corfe Mullen restaurant’s 20-year milestone, Taj said, “We want to say a big thank you to everyone who has supported us throughout the years by offering all our dine-in customers a 2 for 1 Meal Deal throughout the whole of November 2020." The Meal Deal includes starters and main dishes only and terms and conditions apply. Takeaway diners are not forgotten, they will benefit from 15% off takeway meals (with a minimum spend £30) collected from Taj Restaurant in Corfe Mullen, also during November. The family-run restaurant in Wimborne, where Taj and his brothers first started serving their community in 1981, is still trading to this day. Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

| 21

around & about /

Any change in Government guidelines can affect details on this page â&#x20AC;&#x201C; please check with the venue for the latest information

#WeMakeEvents calls for action

A protest was held in Bournemouth on 30 September as part of the global campaign: #WeMakeEvents The campaign is calling on the government to urgently support the live events sector which is in desperate need of financial aid. Without this vital support, many highly skilled people working throughout the industry face losing their careers, businesses and livelihoods. You can help by sharing this message and supporting #WeMakeEvents #LetTheMusicPlay #LetUsDance #BournemouthEvents #WeAreViable For more details, please visit www.wemakeevents.com/uk/

Green Flags fly across the county of Dorset

Never have our parks and open spaces been so important, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s good to hear that BCP and Dorset Council have received 28 awards between them. BCP are celebrating 23 Green Flag awards and Dorset Council is celebrating five awards. Keep an eye out for the green flags.

22 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

in the home

Stylish furniture store opens in Ferndown Lifestyle Living in Victoria Road, Ferndown had a swift change in direction after lockdown, during which the kitchen, bedroom and bathroom shop had to close. Proprietor Jo Gracie made sweeping changes to ensure the survival of her business. She sold off the kitchen displays and was surprised at how much interest this created. “Customers hadn’t stopped wanting to improve their homes, but like us, they’d had to put everything on hold during lockdown.” Now Lifestyle Living is meeting an increased demand for oak and pine furniture, light fittings, mirrors and other home décor items that people are currently buying. “We still provide top quality fitted kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms,” says Jo, who is passionate about her work, “but we will carry this out from the office at the back allowing us to use the current showroom as a retail area for real wood quality items for the home.” Ferndown has welcomed Lifestyle Living’s dedicated furniture shop in town with open arms. Pictured are some of the items you will find in the store.

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 23

in the home / home is where the heart is

Consult a locksmith and prevent a burglary With the clocks having gone back on 25 October we are all facing longer nights, so advice on appraising home security is very timely. Recent statistics have shown that around 76 per cent of domestic burglaries are made via a door, with a forced lock and an unlocked door being the top two most common methods of door entry. Experts at Mul-T-Lock advise that to prevent unwanted access, homeowners should change locks as soon as possible after moving into a new home, and then again every five years, for added

24 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

peace of mind. The company says that getting in touch with a local locksmith before changing or upgrading locks can save time and money. Locksmiths approved by the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA) will be able to advise on security standards, as well as expert advice on quick and simple jobs that can make a difference to the security of a home. For example, by changing the rim cylinder in a nightlatch, or the euro profile cylinder in a multipoint lock, a home can be secure in minutes, without the need to change the entire lock or door. As the locksmithing industry is not government regulated, the MLA has created an approved and trusted list of locksmiths at www.locksmiths. co.uk. Homeowners can also find MLA and Mul-T-Lock approved locksmiths at www.mul-t-lock.co.uk. When it comes to choosing which lock to opt for, the Mul-T-Lock’s

Break Secure® 3DS cylinder offers three separate lines of defence: • A sacrificial end – designed to snap to protect against lock-snapping • Bump resistant – many cylinders can be easily ‘bumped’ (inserting and tapping an illegal key to release the cam and open the door) • Drill resistant – engineered to withstand prolonged drilling In addition, it boasts anti-screw and anti-pick protection. Claire Blakemore, managing director for Mul-T-Lock UK comments, “Burglaries spike by as much as 25 per cent in the autumn and winter months. That’s why there is no better time to get in touch with local locksmiths, to gain invaluable knowledge and advice in order to keep homes across the UK secure throughout the upcoming dark nights.”

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

in the home

K&B’s Bathroom SOS When locally-based K&B Installations asked for nominations for a deserving charity or person in need who would benefit from a new bathroom, the judges chose a widowed mother of twins living in Wimborne. Owner of K&B Installations, Craig Byars said, “We understand the importance of community and wanted to do something special to give back to a family or charity in need.”

Michelle had lost her husband when she was pregnant and is now raising her twin boys, who have autism, single-handedly. She was nominated for the bathroom by the charity Home-Start. Although the competition was held earlier this year, lockdown delayed the works. The bathroom has now been completely overhauled and replaced by K&B Installations for free. It includes a new bathroom suite, full tiling, installation of a new electric shower, and flooring donated and installed by another local company Kimbers Flooring Specialists. Craig added, “Michelle is so happy with her finished bathroom, and we are pleased we could help in a small way to make bath time a little bit easier.” Craig promises to run some more giveaways so keep a look out on K&B Installations, Facebook page for the next announcement.

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 25

specialist services / who to contact for the service you need. CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

CHIMNEY SWEEP

DECORATING

CLEANING SERVICES

COMPUTER SERVICES

DECORATING

FENCING

ELECTRICIAN

FENCING

LANDSCAPING

LOCKSMITH

MAINTENANCE

PLUMBING & HEATING

ROOFING

TREE SURGERY

26 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

specialist services TREE SURGERY

WINDOW REPAIRS

TREE SURGERY

WANDERING PHOTOGRAPHY

Advertise here Call 01202 870270 Today

Christchurch’s Regent Centre

– 1930s restoration for 2020 audiences The Regent Centre in Christchurch – which re-opens on Thursday 12 November with a recorded live screening of Michael Ball and Alfie Boe – has undergone significant restoration to bring luxury and comfort to audiences. Although the venue shut in March, it was previously committed to this project. Through customer generosity and careful management, funds have been raised over the last two years to allocate £350,000 for the work, which started in late June as previously planned. Gary Trinder, chairman of the Regent and project lead for the restoration, said the aim was to simplify the decorative scheme that had previously comprised 14 different colours to five to enhance the building’s original features. A timeline of 1936 was decided upon, and the deep rose, metallic silver and gold, together with black and dark brown colours are all reflective of that period. The whole of the scheme throughout the auditorium, including the foyer and staircases, was undertaken by BCP Council who used local craftsmen to apply the specialist finishes from a huge scaffold

that was erected in the auditorium. A new bespoke woven Axminster carpet was manufactured in the UK by Brintons who used their historic design files to obtain a pattern from the mid-30s period. New seating with high-comfort Posturepedic foam was manufactured by theatre seating experts Kirwin & Simpson from Grays in Essex to a traditional design of the early 30s period. Legroom has been increased, particularly in the circle. Other improvements to cinema sound, auditorium lighting and the stage have also been undertaken. Matthew Vass-White, general manager said, “The Regent Centre had become a little worn around the edges and we are pleased that we were able to continue with the restoration project through a very challenging time. “We have invested upwards of £10,000 in COVID compliancy equipment and doubled our cleaning operation. We will be operating at a budget deficit until a national solution is found and we very much appreciate the support of our customers who continue to purchase tickets, buy gift vouchers and make donations.” The Regent opened as a small ‘SuperCinema’ on Boxing Day 1931 with the film ‘Taming of the Shrew’ and operated very successfully until 1973. It became a Mecca bingo hall until 1982 when it was bought by Christchurch Council and was re-opened a year later. Shortly afterwards the operation of the Regent was passed to a Trust.

Visit www.mags4dorset.co.uk for more local news please mention Dorset View Magazine when you contact our advertisers

| 27

motoring / keeping you on the road.

Is your vehicle winter-ready? By Janine Pulford

The last thing you want in the winter is a broken down car, but the sad fact is that more vehicles break down in the winter, especially in snowy and icy conditions. One way of reducing the risk of a breakdown is to book your vehicle in for a winter service and get it checked over by a trained car mechanic. However, if you are practical, and don’t mind getting your hands dirty you can do some jobs yourself. For instance, check the oil, top up with antifreeze if needed, check the lights, windscreen wiper blades and tyres (tyre pressures should be checked every week). Also top up your windscreen washer water bottle. When you are confident that your vehicle is winter-ready, think about equipping it with a winter emergency kit so that you are prepared in case of emergency:

Some people carry de-icer, which can be useful. But if you’re anti plastic, like me, this throw away bottle will be annoying, despite the usefulness of the contents. Instead, put a bit more muscle into scraping your windows with your long-lasting scraper. Torch and spare batteries This handy device may be a lifesaver should your car break down on an unlit road and you have to walk along a dark verge for assistance. Don’t rely on your mobile phone’s torch. In my experience a mobile phone battery always runs out of power at the most

inconvenient times. Keep a separate torch and spare batteries in your emergency kit. In-car phone charger You would think this handy gadget should overcome your mobile phone running out of battery power and I agree, an in-car charger is really useful. However, it won’t be able to stop your mobile phone battery draining down if you have to walk a long distance from your car. Power pack The power pack is a great solution to a flat mobile phone battery, but do remember to charge it up before adding it to your kit, and keep it charged. Oh the joys of gadgets, and gadgets to charge up gadgets. Sat-nav Without doubt, sat-nav is a useful tool although it’s not infallible. Mine has given me the wrong instructions on more than one occasion and frequently sends me a long way round, ignoring shorter routes. I once lost concentration by focusing on what sat-nav was telling me rather than on the traffic flow and because

An ice scraper These are cheap, reliable little tools that will remove snow and ice effectively. The other advantages are that you only need one for the entire car, it doesn’t need charging up and your trusty ice scraper will last for years. Don’t skimp on the job. You must make sure all your windows are thoroughly de-iced. A vision hole cleared on the windscreen is not sufficient and could land you with three points on your driving licence and a £100 fine.

28 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

motoring of this I ended up driving thirty miles out of my way along the motorway. Taking all this into account, sat-nav will eventually get you to your destination. Plan ahead though. Never fiddle with your sat-nav when you’re driving. This could easily cause an accident, which would be your fault. Road atlas Yes, they still exist and come in handy if there are diversions or if you lose GPS signal. There is nothing more satisfying than planning a new route on an atlas and reaching your destination without the annoying sat-nav nagging you to “turn slightly left.” I still haven’t worked out what that means. Warning triangles These are useful to warn other drivers if you have broken down. If it’s safe to do so, you can put the warning triangle at least 45 m (50 yards) from the back of your vehicle so that other road users will slow down before reaching you. Put another in front of your vehicle.

Empty fuel can How many times have you had to purchase a fuel can? I can count about four. So this is a useful tip: take an empty can with you. If you car runs out of fuel, you can ask satnav where the nearest fuel station is, set up your warning triangles, grab your can, and your mobile phone and power pack, light the way with your torch and nip down the road to the nearest filling station by shanks’s pony to purchase some fuel for your vehicle. There are more items you may need in an emergency: jump leads, hi-vis jacket, snacks, a flask of hot drink, first aid kit, a face mask, hand sanitizer, sturdy footwear, a shovel, warm clothes and waterproofs and last but not least, sunglasses. With the low, winter sun, a pair of shades will help alleviate glare. Membership with a breakdown service is also very helpful if you can afford it and, if you’re struggling under the weight of your emergency kit, you could consider buying a larger vehicle. Happy driving.

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 29

Pete with his family outside the cob wall

Pete goes from cruise ship entertainer to cob wall builder By Marilyn Barber

When I first interviewed the 16-year-old juggler and unicyclist Pete Matthews 30 years ago, he told me that his ambition was to become a cruise ship entertainer. And he went on to become one of our most successful ones, performing on the inaugural voyages of the largest and most impressive ships. However, with the cancellation of cruises, he has been ashore since 6 March. “I was booked to perform on another one a few days

30 |

DORSET VIEW November 2020

later, and at the end of the month was to go on the inaugural cruise of Celebrity Apex, which is billed as ‘the pinnacle of modern luxury’," he said. “It was such an honour as I have performed on every new Celebrity ship over the last ten years,” said Pete who described himself as ‘the crazy juggler’. He started juggling at the age of 11 and was to be found busking in Covent Garden at the age of 15. Pete, who is married to Claire and has two children

Annie and Milo, hasn’t been idle over the last few months. Far from it, for he has rebuilt the cob wall on his 300-year-old farmhouse at Parley. “In ways it was nice to have six months off, as normally I am only home for a short time and there is always a list of jobs to do.” When he removed the mass of brambles and ivy, he discovered that the wall was in a very poor state. “I had never tackled anything like this before, so I learned how to rebuild the wall by looking at YouTube, and even spoke to a chap in New Zealand online. I also received information from a Dorset cob wall group. “It was such a steep learning curve,” he said. Using traditional methods, he worked every day for six months. “Before I started I had a quote from a company that would have done the job for between £8,000 and £12,000, but they admitted that they wouldn’t be using traditional methods,” said Pete, who went to QE School in Wimborne. Apart from help on a couple of days, Pete completed the work on his own on the wall which is 47 feet long, two feet deep and 6 feet tall with one foot of tile on the top.

“It has been fabulous and I now have a new skill,” he said. He is booked to perform on a Cunard ship next April, but accepts that could all change. “A lot of work has been taking place on cruise ships to make them COVID safe,” said Pete, who has been performing at sea since 1995. “There is air filtration in every cabin, and so the air quality will be second to none. There are cruise ships anchored in Weymouth Bay. I’ve never been so close to them and not being able to get on one. It’s heartbreaking really.” He added that he feels so sad for all the people in the entertainment business, who are out of work. The wall now complete, Pete is still not idle. At present he can be found at the Rising Sun pub in Wimborne, working for his brother Steve, who is a Hall and Woodhouse business partner. You could say that he was born into the pub trade as his parents Di and Dudley Matthews ran the Dormers, before it became the Olive Branch, and his sister Sally is at the Stocks Inn at Furzehill. “I’m a performer at heart, so now and then I do a bit of juggling in the Rising Sun, as well as riding my unicycle in the garden,” said Pete.

Follow DORSET VIEW on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/dorsetviewmagazine

please mention Dorset View when you contact our advertisers

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

| 31