Dorset View December 2022

Christmas is the time for giving – and if you’re anything like me, you’ll take great delight in seeing friends and family unwrap gifts that you’ve lovingly chosen for them.

But with ever-increasing fuel bills and prices in the shops and on petrol forecourts, I’ve been reassessing my gift buying for the upcoming festive season. It’s not a bad thing – how many times have I bought a gift that, while I’m sure the recipient will love it, isn’t really needed?

So, this year, I’ll be heading off on a different tack. I love cooking up a storm so, rather than buy selection boxes with all their excess and unnecessary packaging, I’ll be filling my house with the comforting smells of biscuits and other confectionary. There’s a fabulous recipe I may well use on page 24.

For the younger members of the family, who are usually so busy with school and other activities, I’m planning a trip to the theatre to see a pantomime. There’s plenty of choice to suit all budgets across the region – see what’s on offer on page 30, where you also have the chance to win tickets to the Regent Centre pantomime, Cinderella, which will be showing in January.

And in the run up to Christmas, I’ll be taking full advantage of the festive celebrations. With Christmas lights, markets and craft fairs supporting local artisans, parades, music and Carol services, there’ll be plenty to keep me in the festive spirit right through the season. Wishing you a very merry Christmas, from everyone at Dorset View.

Karen Wyatt-Epapara

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Hundreds support Remembrance services

People turned out in their droves to show their respect to those who have lost their lives in conflict at Remembrance services and parades across the Dorset View distribution area on Sunday 13 November. In the run up to the event, towns and villages were decorated with poppies, in a fitting tribute.

Wimborne

Hundreds of people lined the streets of Wimborne for the Remembrance Sunday parade, with the service in the Minster church packed to capacity. The service was conducted by the rector the Rev Canon Andrew Rowland, assisted by other clergy from the town. The address was given by The Rev William French, chaplain to Wimborne Royal British Legion. After the service, wreaths were laid on the war memorial. The piper was Richard Rowland and the Exhortation and Kohima Plea were read by Steve Young from the RBL. A short service on the Minster Green on Friday 11 November, also received impressive community support. Report and photos by Marilyn Barber.

Ferndown

The Ferndown commemorations began with a parade from King George V Fields to St Mary’s Church, where a service of Remembrance was led by Rev Patches Chabala. Following the service, the parade returned to Peter Grant Way.

Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch

Across the BCP Council area, the towns marked Remembrance Sunday at their respective war memorials – in Central Gardens in Bournemouth, and in Poole Park in Poole. In Christchurch, there was a parade through the High Street to Christchurch Priory for a service of Remembrance.

Poole Sea Cadets performed at two Remembrance Sunday parades – Poole Park in the morning and in Ferndown in the afternoon.

Photo by Bruce Grant-Braham

Colehill Colehill residents turned out to watch a parade from St Michael’s Church to the War Memorial for a ceremony that included the roll call, a two-minute silence, the Last Post and laying of wreaths.

Photos by Cllr KD Johnson, Colehill Parish Council

Pupils from St Michael's Middle School

law spot by Harold G Walker Solicitors

What are codicils?

By Katherine Grantham-Balchin, private client executive, Harold G Walker Solicitors

Codicils are legal documents making alterations to existing wills. They are separate documents to the corresponding will and are read alongside it. As such, wills must be submitted to probate together with all associated codicils. They should be validly executed in the same way as the original will.

Codicils can cause issues if your executors are unaware that a codicil was made or if it is invalidly signed. Where there are multiple changes, or the change is more complex, using a codicil can cause ambiguity as to the testator’s actual wishes and complications during the administration of the estate, especially if the documents are uncertain or contradict each other. For these reasons we do not recommend the use of codicils.

When making a new

professional will, a full review of current financial and personal circumstances is usually undertaken. All provisions in your existing will are reviewed and up-to-date advice regarding any changes in legislation is provided. This advice may have significant implications on your existing will and is likely to trigger additional changes that you may not otherwise have considered.

As such, when making changes to your will, it is generally considered best practice to draw up a new will. Either way, a new document needs to be executed but, with just one document, there is less risk involved. In addition, you can be confident that your will has been brought up to date and in line with your current circumstances.

Remember, it is important to review your will regularly.

Drug dealers targeted

Two London drug dealers have been jailed following their arrest in Boscombe.

Amaan Khan-Brown, 20, of Brixton Hill, and Lee Wedderman, 21, from Barking, appeared at Bournemouth Crown Court on 21 October. They were sentenced for two charges of being concerned in the supply of class A drugs.

Khan-Brown was sentenced to three years and two months in prison and Wedderman received a jail term of two years and two months. Both also have to pay a £190 victim surcharge.

Information obtained by

officers indicated the two defendants were running a county line supplying class A drugs in the Bournemouth area and were exploiting children as young as 13 to act as drugs runners.

In a further crackdown on 1 November, as part of Dorset Police’s Operation Viper, six local people suspected of drug dealing were arrested after searches were carried out at an address in Nutley Way in Bournemouth, and another address in Poole.

A large quantity of class A drugs was recovered in addition to cash and mobile phones.

Man behind bars for child sex abuse

Merley man, Christopher James Attwood, 39, was sentenced to 19 years in prison for child sex abuse at Bournemouth Crown Court on Thursday 3 November. He had been found guilty of two charges of rape, three counts of indecent assault

and two offences of sexual assault at an earlier trial at the same court.

Attwood was also placed on the sex offenders’ register for life and made the subject of a sex harm prevention order for an indefinite period.

Social media ‘friend’ scam

If you receive a ‘friend’ request on social media that appears to be from someone you are already friends with – be warned as these can be cloned accounts which are used by scammers.

The scammer will send messages asking for help, or telling you about a great way to make money. One example is a scheme offering large amounts of money in return for buying hundreds of pounds of iTunes or Amazon vouchers.

What to do if you receive a suspicious message:

• If you think you have been a victim of this type of scam, report it to Action Fraud online or call 0300 123 2040

• If you have given your bank details or money to anyone you think is suspicious, contact your bank to let them know and help, also call 101 for the police to investigate

• Report any messages or adverts for fraudulent business or money making schemes to the social media platform

• If you are concerned about an unsolicited phone call from someone that you do not know, who asks you to hand over money please report this

to Action Fraud and the police, either online at hampshire. police.uk or dorset.police.uk or by calling 101

• You can also visit the Take Five to Stop Fraud website for more details on protecting yourself from fraud, particularly in the current economic climate: www.takefive-stopfraud.org. uk/

Hampshire Police offers this advice:

• Beware of adverts or messages for money making opportunities

• Don’t be tempted by seemingly easy offers of work or ways to make money. Your personal details could be sold on to other scammers and you could become an easy target

• Never give personal or bank account details to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly

• Never hand over your card, money or valuables to someone at the door

• Don’t be pressured into acting quickly. Take a moment. If you are unsure, speak to a trusted friend, family member or neighbour for advice

• If something seems too good to be true, it probably is

Cost of living web support hub

With combating the rise in the cost of living top of most people’s agenda BCP Council has launched a dedicated online hub to provide support.

The hub includes useful advice around being financially resilient, how to access free gadgets to reduce energy bills and tools to help residents access community food projects in their area.

Further updates on the support package this winter will also be promoted when available through the hub, including details about the next round of Household Support funding. The Household Support Fund project is funded by the government and will include support for local community food providers, amongst other cost of living help provided by BCP Council and partners.

For more information on cost of living support, visit: bcpcouncil. gov.uk/costofliving/

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Big Sleep Easy event raises £7,500

People in Bournemouth have been discovering the hardships involved in being homeless.

More than 35 people from different organisations constructed their own temporary shelters and slept under the stars for one night at Talbot Heath School as part of YMCA Bournemouth’s Big Sleep Easy event. Donations have exceeded £7,500.

Sheena Dayman, events manager at YMCA Bournemouth, said: “It was fantastic to see members of our community come together to raise money for those in need. Spirits stayed high despite the challenging weather conditions and, thanks to some great shelter craftmanship, everyone stayed dry.

“Homelessness is becoming increasingly prevalent as more and more people face financial pressures amid the cost of living crisis. YMCA Bournemouth plays a critical role in directly preventing homelessness by putting roofs over people’s heads, as well as providing personal support and guidance.

“By taking part in the Big Sleep Easy, individuals and organisations support our work to keep people safe from homelessness in the long-term. A huge thank you to everyone who took part this year.”

Support armed forces veterans

Chris Rea had a hit with his song ‘Driving Home for Christmas’, but it is hoped that local people will embark upon ‘Walking home for Christmas’ in support of armed forces veterans.

The campaign, which runs from 9 to 20 December, is Walking With The Wounded’s annual nationwide fundraising challenge to support its work across mental health, employment, volunteering and care coordination.

An estimated five million veterans live in the UK. While most of the 15,000 plus personnel who leave the forces each year have a successful transition to civilian life,

a small but significant minority do not. Walking With The Wounded supports those who served, and their families, to thrive.

Participants can complete their own fundraising walk – of any distance and at a location of their choosing – between 9 and 20 December. Some participants opt to walk their children home from school, others walk between offices with colleagues, and there are those who undertake a walk in memory of someone special or between locations that mean something to them.

Sign up at https://www. walkinghomeforchristmas.com/

Photo from Paul Collins Photography

New student officers join Dorset Police

Dorset Police has recruited 113 student police officers and, by the end of March, it plans to add a further 53 officers.

Officers have been recruited by a variety of entry routes, including the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, Degree Holder Entry Programme, Detective Degree Holder Entry Programme, as well as a number of officers re-joining the service and transferring to Dorset from other forces.

There has been an increase in the number of women in policing and, in Dorset, women now make up 37.5 per cent of police officers. Since April 2020, a total of 43.8 per cent of new joiners to the force identify as female. There are also 50 per cent more ethnic officers in Dorset than there were three years ago.

Student officer Syrie Hall, who joined Dorset Police earlier this year and is part way through her initial

classroom training as part of the Detective Degree Holder Entry Programme, said: “I joined policing because I wanted to make a difference to people’s lives. Ever since I was a teenager I wanted to be a police officer, but I chose a different career path and went on to have children.

“Training is really interesting and varied and I am learning something new every day. I already feel part of a team within my cohort of student officers, but also within the wider Dorset Police family.”

Changes at Poole BID

Poole BID recently announced the appointment of Georgina Bartlett as chair, a position that has been vacant since the previous chair resigned in January 2022. Georgina will be supported in the role by Sara St George who was voted vice chair at the same time.

Georgina lives and works in the Poole BID area and is founder and managing director of Saltwater Stone, a specialist international marine marketing and communications agency.

Sara is deputy CEO at Lighthouse, Poole. With a background in strategy, governance, marketing, fundraising, inner city regeneration, culture and tourism, Sara is ideally placed to support the delivery of the business plan.

Purple flag for Bournemouth

Bournemouth has been recognised for providing a vibrant and diverse mix of dining, entertainment and culture in the evenings while promoting the safety and wellbeing of visitors and residents.

The town’s night-time economy has received a Purple Flag award, for the 12th year in a row.

Syrie Hall

Similar to the Blue Flag for beaches, Purple Flag aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm and 5am.

Winter gardening

By Plants Direct

As the winter is slowly creeping in over our gardens, now is the time to look at pruning, clearing, and tidying all our pots, borders, and fruit and vegetable gardens.

Winter planting of native species, bare root trees and hedging can all be done. Beech, hawthorn, hornbeam, hazel, blackthorn, laurels and many more can all be planted now. All are available from your local nursery at a much lower cost than pot grown stock.

Herbaceous plants, borders, vegetable plots, rose beds and shrubberies can all be cut back and top dressed with compost to help protect from frost and to feed plants in the spring. Lawns can be given the final cut of the season, and raking up of leaves and debris can all be completed.

Drainage and aeration of lawns by spiking and tinning and topdressing with sharp sand and dressing

will prevent moss and improve growth of grass.

As we near Christmas, cut, potted and pot grown Christmas trees are all available from your local nursery for the festive season, as are a large selection of quality plants such as poinsettia, cyclamen, azaleas, orchids, primroses and hellebores. Planted arrangements can really brighten up homes, tubs and baskets.

Looking forward to the New Year, now is the time for planning new borders, planters and landscaping over a glass or two of Christmas cheer.

Georgina Bartlett

Two step down from Wimborne Model Town

With more than 10 years each in the management team of Wimborne Model Town, Iain Stevenson, chairman and Greg Hoar, marketing services provider, are stepping down after the charity's 70th anniversary season.

Both joined as trustees in 2012, with Iain later becoming chairman, overseeing financial improvements leading to reinvestment in infrastructure and new exhibits including the Wareham Bears. He remains as a volunteer. Greg became general manager in 2015 and, latterly, marketing services provider bringing the 1/10th scale 1950s' diorama and the new 1/100 scale Model of the Model to the attention of a wider audience.

Greg said: “What a superb

platinum season this year has been, ably supported by the Model Town’s brilliant volunteer force. For me it’s time to move forward to assist other organisations with new full size heritage opportunities.”

New staff for funeral group

Douch Family Funeral Directors, which has seven branches across east Dorset, has welcomed new staff members.

The team at its Lesley Shand branches in Corfe Mullen and Blandford has been bolstered by the arrivals of Tim Randle, Peter Short and Melissa Harper.

Tim is a funeral director and also a trained celebrant who conducts services.

Peter has moved from within the group to become a funeral director and Melissa

has returned to the business after time out to have a family.

Also recently recruited is Josh Caldicott who is working at the AE Jolliffe & Son branch in Ferndown.

Susan retires from Bus Stop Club

A new career beckons for Susan Sutherland who, for the past 15 years, has been the inspiring and compassionate project manager of the Bus Stop Club charity, located behind Hope Church Ferndown on the Heatherlands Estate.

Over the past year, Susan has successfully completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Chaplaincy and is looking to employ her skills in this new area of ministry.

As Susan moves on, the Bus Stop Club charity will close at the end of 2022. The East Dorset CAP Debt Centre has already transferred from the charity to come under the responsibility of its partner, Hope Church Ferndown, so its activities will continue as before, under debt coach Pam Ansell and administrator Traceyanne Lambert.

The Turbary Resource Centre will be transferred to the church and the store cupboard which supports local needy families with donations of food, toiletries and household items from local church Blessing Bins and the public donation boxes at Sainsbury’s and Lidl will continue under church management.

Tim Rendle, Melissa Harper, Nick Douch, MD, Jonathan Stretch, director, Peter Short and Josh Caldicott

Greg Hoar with comedian Al Murray

Environmental success for Poole Sea Cadets

Poole Sea Cadets is the first Sea Cadet Unit in the country to implement a solar panel scheme at its premises at Sterte Avenue West in Poole – and it is now selling electricity back to the grid. This big success story was reflected on at the annual meeting and prize giving

which took place recently.

The cadets have named the solar panel scheme –which was achieved through a grant bid to Low Carbon Dorset – ‘Project Liquid Sun’. The substantial sum of money saved can now be spent on the cadet experience.

Schoolgirl’s beach cleaning challenge

Scarlet Sutcliffe, a 15-year-old pupil from Queen Elizabeth’s School, Wimborne has embarked on a year-long challenge to beach clean 60 miles along the Dorset coast, raising funds for rural communities in Cambodia.

In July 2024, along with students across the country, she will travel with Camps International to Cambodia for four weeks where she will assist in a variety of project work including community development, wildlife conservation and environmental conservation.

During the first eight miles of her challenge, Scarlet collected four large bin bags of

rubbish from Sandbanks and Durdle Door beaches.

Scarlet said: “I really care about the environment and helping other people less fortunate than me which is why I chose to do this trip, but also why I chose to do my bit for the local area. Every pound I raise will go toward a really good cause and I’ve already recycled about two thirds of the litter I’ve picked up as it’s mostly either plastic or glass bottles, cans and coffee cups.”

You can follow Scarlet’s beach clean journey on Instagram at Challenge_ Cambodia_2024 or donate via https://gofund.me/8da523f7

Scarlet Sutcliffe with beach rubbish

Cancer survivors in dragon team Play equipment campaign for Poole Hospital

Dragon boating is becoming known as a sport suited to cancer survivors in supporting their return to both physical and mental health.

The founding members of Bourne Water Dragons had previously been members of an all-female breast cancer survivor team but, having recognised the benefits of the sport, decided to start a team that welcomed all cancer survivors.

The team was established in May 2019 and has grown from just four paddlers to 35 in number. They get together every Sunday to practice, with an extra session on Thursday evenings in summer.

A full team consists of 20 people, plus a helm and drummer. The team has five helms, or coaches, who give their time freely.

The exercise involved can greatly reduce future issues such as lymphedema and, especially after cancer treatments, can help people

regain their fitness. In addition, the team camaraderie provides mental support, especially as all the team’s members have been through similar, often traumatic, experiences.

Any cancer survivor is welcome to join the team, but should get permission from their doctor first. No experience is necessary. Those wishing to try the sport can take part in trial sessions before committing to joining the team.

Training takes place on the river Stour from Iford playing fields on Sundays, 9.30-11am. To find out more, visit www. bournewaterdragons.uk.

University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity has launched an appeal to raise £75,000 for its child development centre, which is accessed by over 2,000 children each year with neurodevelopmental conditions.

The centre provides assessment and treatment of pre-school children with a variety of developmental needs and also hosts schoolaged clinics for children with possible neurodevelopmental conditions, including cerebral palsy, Down's Syndrome, learning disabilities and sensory integration difficulties.

Integral to the centre is the outdoor play area which supports in the assessment of conditions, additional therapy and provides an area for children to play while waiting. The play area is also used by long stay inpatients.

To find out how to support the appeal, visit www.uhdcharity. org/current-projects/ childrens-playground/

Young carers enjoy day out

Thirty young carers from Bethany Junior School in Bournemouth enjoyed their ‘Best Day Ever’ at Chessington World of Adventures, all thanks to Variety The Children’s Charity.

The children had a wonderful time and took full advantage of all the thrilling roller coaster rides. The park was decked out for Halloween, with spooky skeletons, decorated pumpkins and some hair-raising sound effects.

The day ended with a visit to McDonalds and, when the coach arrived back at Bethany, each child was presented with a tin of chocolates to take home.

Elisabeth Rawson Jones, pastoral care at Bethany School, said: “What an amazing day out the children had at Chessington World of Adventures. It really was the most incredible adventure for them.”

Wheelchairs for Dorset Demons Double honour for hospital consultant

A consultant at University Hospitals Dorset (UHD) has received two accolades.

Professor Jonathan Cole, consultant in clinical neurophysiology, has been elected President of the International Federation of Clinical Neurophysiology, only the third British physician to be

so honoured since 1947.

He was also awarded the British Society of Clinical Neurophysiology’s highest award, the Grey-Walter Medal, for ‘outstanding service.’ He is the eighth recipient of this in over 40 years.

Professor Cole has worked at Poole since 1990 diagnosing nerve and muscle disease and assessing brain function. He is also a professor at Bournemouth University, and has published over 120 peer reviewed papers.

Professor Cole said: “It was still a surprise to be approached about becoming IFCN president. I take some quiet pride in the achievement and in showing what is possible from our small patch here in Dorset. To receive any award from your peers is especially gratifying, so I felt hugely honoured to be awarded the Grey Walter Medal by the British Society.”

Dorset’s only wheelchair basketball team – the Dorset Demons – had existed using borrowed wheelchairs and, at £3,500 per chair, looked set to continue that way.

However, grants from Active Dorset’s Together Fund and the National Lottery’s Community Fund meant they could afford to buy six new chairs that are suitable for their players’ impairments.

Charlie Dennis, a Dorset Demons player, said: “As a bigger person with health conditions I have always found it difficult to be able to do something active and fit in. Wheelchair basketball is something I can do and I love it. However the only chair we had that I could fit in wasn’t good. It was old, very bulky, heavy, really uncomfortable and not set up properly for me.

“Since getting into one of the purpose built wheelchairs I can’t stop smiling. I am able

to move around so much better, I feel more confident and can compete with the team better. It makes all the difference, not just physically but mentally too.”

The team hopes to buy a further four chairs and is continuing to raise funds for this purpose.

Dorset Demons Wheelchair Basketball Club currently trains at Rossmore Leisure Centre, Poole, Thursday evenings 7-9pm. For further information, email dorsetdemons@gmail.com.

The children, teachers, Variety representatives and staff © Hattie Miles

Neck pain: and how chiropractic can help it

As we all know, neck pain can be really debilitating and affect everyday activities such as gardening, working, and driving. Neck pain is also very difficult to ignore and can affect our mood and energy levels. What are the causes of neck pain and what can be done to help?

Facet joint irritation

One of the most common causes of neck pain; the facet joints are the joints that sit between each vertebra. When they are restricted (by common everyday activities such as work and posture) they cause localised inflammation that can impinge the cervical nerves. This can even cause headaches or arm pain. This type of condition can affect young and older people.

Degenerative joint disease

Known as ‘wear and tear’, DJD is a common condition to affect the neck especially as we get older. Our heads weigh about the weight of a bowling ball, so when they are slightly forward on the shoulders, they cause increased pressure through the joints of the neck. This increased pressure

causes the body to lay down extra bone to scaffold and protect the joints – this is what causes wear and tear. The extra bone means the joints don’t move as easily and the lack of circulation of joint fluid means they can feel stiff and sore.

Slipped cervical disc

You’ve probably heard of a slipped disc in the lower back, but did you know you can get them in your neck too? The disc is the material that sits between the vertebra to act as a shock absorber and allow movement through the spine. The inner part of the disc can sometimes be pushed out of the outer part of the disc, which is what we call a ‘slipped disc’. The inner material causes high amounts of inflammation by the nerve which can then cause high levels of pain, headaches and/ or arm pain. This condition isn’t as common but can be very painful and debilitating.

Whiplash related conditions

A whiplash injury is described as a rapid flexion and extension injury of the neck. This sudden force causes trauma to the large

muscles around the neck. In response to this, the muscles go into spasm and, in more severe cases, can experience tears through the muscle fibres. The pain in whiplash often goes from very acutely painful to then settle to be stiff and sore and headache producing.

How can chiropractic help with the above?

Chiropractic is a very effective option for helping with all the conditions mentioned above. After a thorough assessment, your chiropractor can diagnose your condition and put together a care plan to reduce your pain, improve your movement and prevent the pain returning. Our methods of care for neck pain include adjustments, mobilisation, gentle traction, soft tissue work, stretches, and dry needling. Your diagnosis will determine what methods of care we use (for example, mobilisation is very effective for wear and tear).

Neck pain can affect our everyday lives, but it doesn’t have to. Give us a call or drop us an email to see how we can help you.

Our gardens are teeming with wildlife

This country is lucky to have numerous nature reserves but, in fact, our gardens occupy more space than all of them put together.

And we can all share our gardens with nature and wildlife.

Being thoughtful about how gardens are designed and maintained – with wildlife in mind – is one of the key aims

of the Knoll Gardens Foundation, the charitable arm of Knoll Gardens, near Wimborne. Through its lively and committed team of volunteers, the charity helps support the care of Knoll Gardens, offers educational activities and events to the local community and also undertakes regular wildlife surveys.

Engaging with local community groups is a priority for the foundation, and over the summer they offered free garden access to a number of local art and photography groups, inspiring artists and photographers to capture their own view of wildlife amongst the naturalistic planting at Knoll.

An exhibition of some of the photographic work to come out of this collaboration was displayed as part of the foundation’s recent open day. Lauren King (from bh photography club) captured the winning image and was presented with two annual passes for the gardens by foundation chairman, Rowena Jecock, enabling her to visit the gardens, and continue to be inspired by the wildlife, throughout the coming year.

The charity also has big plans for the future, with projects to better help visitors understand and learn from their wildlife-friendly approach, to inspire more

people to adopt sustainable gardening practices at home, and to realise the potential of further recording opportunities of the wild ‘flora and fauna’ at Knoll.

The foundation is seeking a new trustee to join its friendly team, specifically someone with a background in ecology, to advise on survey/research methodology.

If you would like join the foundation team as a trustee or volunteer, please get in touch at foundation@knollgardens.co.uk

Arthritis in pets: Get the spring back in their step

By Lynwood Vets

Many people know how chilly autumn winds and damp days ‘get in your bones’ and at the vets we hear the same about pets. Dogs may be reluctant to get up to greet you or go on walks, and you may notice your cat is quieter, and may be a little grumpy or not grooming properly.

Arthritis is extremely common in older pets but they often suffer in silence and it is put down to ‘just getting old’. However, many can get back a lot of the vigour they have lost.

Before considering medication, the biggest things you can do to help your pet are bodyweight control and exercise moderation. This can make a huge difference and save money. It is better to go on a short gentle walk every day rather than a big hike once a week: we see a particular increase in problems after Boxing Day when a long walk to burn off the Christmas

turkey seems to be a tradition for many. Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy are also very useful for many pets and available locally.

If this is not enough, medication can be truly transformative to many sufferers. Recently, some revolutionary new types of medication have become available for both cats and dogs with arthritis using a cutting edge technology called monoclonal antibodies. These come in a once-amonth injection and do not carry the same risk of side effects as the older drugs.

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

Lauren with her award

Bee on echinacea

Wimborne in Christmas

As we head into December, the Christmas spirit is alive and well in Wimborne. Whether you are looking for interesting and unique gifts for family and friends, or just want to soak up the festive atmosphere, you’ll find plenty of festive events and entertainment to enjoy.

Christmas events

Wimborne’s Christmas events programme kicks off with the switching on of the Christmas lights on Saturday 26 November. There will be entertainment all day in the Square, with the lights going on at 4.30pm.

A Christmas highlight in Wimborne is the Save the Children Christmas Parade. This year, it takes place on Saturday 10 December, and will be in memory of founder Margery Ryan, who sadly died earlier this year. The organisers would like to do Margery proud and make the 2022 parade one to remember.

The entertainment will begin in The Square from 10am, featuring local musicians and bands. Then, the parade itself will start at about 2pm from Brook Road, taking its usual route from Brook Road to The Square, where it will arrive at approximately 2.30-2.45pm.

Another popular tradition in Wimborne is the Great Pudding Stir, which will take place on Saturday 10 December, 10am-

4pm at the Museum of East Dorset.

Visitors can stir a huge bowl of the dry mix and make a Christmas wish, before sampling the final product heated on the coal-fired range.

The Great Pudding Stir is included with usual museum admission. Annual passes are valid for this event.

Kingston Lacy will once again be lighting up its gardens and house from 2 December, with new installations. Information and tickets at www. nationaltrust.org.uk/kingston-lacy/

Christmas lights

Save the Children Christmas Parade

The Great Pudding Stir

Wimborne in Christmas

Shopping

Wimborne has numerous independent and national retailers offering a wide selection of interesting and unique gifts for friends and family to suit all budgets.

From knick-knacks to clothing, locally made and sourced artisan food and drink to quality homewares, you’ll find something for everyone. The town is also home to numerous craftspeople and, in the run up to Christmas,

you’ll find them selling their wares at craft fairs around the town. Venues include the Allendale Centre, Walford Mill, the Community Learning and Resource Centre and the Museum of East Dorset, as well as in the Square and the Allendale’s Minster Market, which takes place every Friday morning.

See the venues’ websites for further details.

Crafts and activities

You can have a go at making your own Christmas wreath or decorations at Allendale House, Church House or Walford Mill, or join Wimborne Art Club from 2-4 December at Pamphill Village Hall to buy their artwork and try some crafts of your own.

Christmas craft fair

Perhaps you might like to try your hand at making your own Christmas crafts?

Christmas traditions

This time of year is all about tradition, and Wimborne does both older and newer traditions well.

Wimborne Minster holds a number of services in the run up to Christmas to celebrate the season in the Christian way and to offer respite from the stresses of Christmas shopping. Services include shoppers’ Carols on 17 December at 11am and Carols by Candlelight at 6.30pm on 18 December. The popular Carols in the Cornmarket will take place on 23 December at 6pm, accompanied by the Broadstone Community Concert Band and choristers from the minster. A collection

Free parking

will be taken for Dial-a-Ride, Walford Mill Education Trust and the UK Wild Otter Trust.

On Christmas Eve, there is a Crib Service at 3pm, and midnight Eucharist from 11pm.

For those who prefer more modern Christmas entertainment, the ever-popular Tivoli pantomime returns, and this year’s production is Aladdin. Performances take place from 16 December to 2 January. There is a Christmas concert by Bournemouth Gilbert and Sullivan Productions on 2 December and the Best Ever Christmas Show from 10 to 24 December, both at the Allendale Centre.

There will be free parking in Wimborne car parks (except the Co-op, High Street and Waitrose car parks, which are privately owned) on 26 November and 2 and 3 December.

Carols in the Cornmarket

Vantage Accounting moves to Ferndown

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The team at Vantage Accounting is excited to have recently moved into its new headquarters at 1 Cedar Park on the Ferndown Industrial Park. Previously based in Ringwood, the team looks after the accounting needs of small businesses and individuals across Dorset and Hampshire and is loving being in the heart of the industrial park.

Paul Ankers, director of Vantage Accounting said: “Choosing an accountant can feel like a huge burden for small business owners. At Vantage Accounting, we make everything as simple as possible, from our clear, value pricing to the way we talk through the most tax efficient ways to manage a business. I’m really proud of how approachable and servicefocussed my team are and we look forward to supporting more people in the area.”

You can call on 01962 820375 to talk about your needs, or pop in and see them at 1 Cedar Park, Ferndown Industrial Park, Wimborne BH21 7SB.

A hub for sustainable and ethical living

Being tucked away in the Cornmarket can feel a little far away from the busy streets of Wimborne sometimes, but when Fair Ground’s customers pop in to, they always make the staff smile.

Run entirely by volunteers, Fair Ground – a Fairtrade shop – is a treasure trove of gifts, crafts and food items such as tea, chocolate and coffee from around the world, all of which are fairly traded. This ensures that producers and farmers receive a guaranteed minimum price for their goods. In these difficult times, this really does make a difference to people’s lives.

The directors, Charley and Sarah, are also involved with Wimborne War on Waste CIC and Fair Ground is becoming a hub where people can share information to help us all become more sustainable and ethical in our daily lives. You can

borrow litter picking equipment, upcycled fabric bunting, cups and crockery for free, or find out dates for the next Repair Cafes, Win on Waste collections and local events. For more information contact fairground21@googlemail. com, or pop in Monday to Saturday, 10am-4pm.

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Paul Ankers, director, Vantage Accounting

Vantage Accounting – a local business that loves supporting other local businesses.

Cookshop wins top award

Salamander Cookshop won the category of Excellence in Retail Training at the Excellence in Housewares awards.

Owners David and Ione Crossley, who took over the shop in 2019, put this recognition down to their commitment to training.

David Crossley said: “We came to the retail sector from education and ran our own training consultancy. As lifelong learners, great training is part of our DNA. A focus on learning about the cookware industry and its products was a natural for us and it still is.”

Ione Crossley said: “We believe we best serve our customers by offering genuine product knowledge and expertise as well as great customer service. We take every member of staff through the shop in sections so they can really get under the skin of what we sell – how it works, where it comes from, its benefits and features.”

Salamander was also a finalist in the Retail Initiative Category for its innovative approach in bringing cookware to life.

The shop now runs a series of popular cooking events and hosts Wimborne Food Walks in conjunction with other businesses in the town.

Brie & Pickle Pastry Wreath

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 15 minutes | Serves: 6

Ingredients

320g ready roll puff pastry

6tbsp Cottage Delight Perfect Party Pickle (320g jar)

200g brie cheese, sliced

2tbsp pistachio nuts roughly chopped 1 egg, beaten Method

• Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/180°C fan/gas 6 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Roll the pastry and cut a large circle out of the pastry.

• Lay the large pastry circle on the prepared baking sheet.

• Mark an inner circle with a medium-sized bowl, don’t press all the way through the pastry.

• Cut four cuts into the centre circle, this will create eight triangles.

• Spread the Perfect Party Pickle around the outer circle then top with the brie and pistachios.

• From the four cuts, bring one triangle of the centre outwards over the filling as well as bringing the outer edge of pastry inwards. Press the two together and continue all the way around with the remaining seven triangles until you have a wreath.

• Brush with beaten egg then place in the oven and allow to bake for 15 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

• Remove from the oven, allow to rest for five minutes then slice and serve.

A Wimborne shop beat Harrods and John Lewis at an award ceremony held in London.

David and Ione Crossley (centre) receive their Excellence in Housewares Award from host and comedienne Sara Barron and Simon Oliver from category sponsor Tower

Chocolate and amaretto truffles

If you’re thinking of giving homemade gifts this Christmas, or you want to serve tempting treats to your guests with coffee, you won’t go far wrong with this truffle recipe idea from Maldon Salt.

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 25 minutes, plus cooling time Serves: makes 12 truffles

Ingredients:

• 220g dark chocolate, finely chopped

• 120g double cream

• 1 tsp almond extract

• 2 tbsp amaretto

• 90g unsalted butter, cut into small cubes at room temp

• 1 pinch of Maldon salt

• Coatings: finely chopped pistachios, desiccated coconut, cocoa powder

Method:

1. Place the finely chopped chocolate in a large heatproof bowl. Put the cream into a saucepan and heat until just boiling, then remove from the heat and pour over the chocolate. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before whisking until smooth. Add the butter, amaretto, almond extract, and pinch of Maldon Salt and then whisk again until smooth.

2. Transfer to a shallow tin and allow to cool at room temp before adding to the fridge to firm up (2 hours). When cooled, roll the ganache truffles in your hands in balls, keeping in the fridge whilst you do the rest. Then roll the truffles in desiccated coconut, finely chopped pistachios or cocoa powder before serving.

Cause of the Year

History of the Jurassic Coast, part two

By Roy Beal

The Cretaceous period ended around 66 million years ago and a lot has happened since then. Mass-extinction events occurred, the planet changed as land masses moved and, as things started to settle and the climate changed, the rise of the mammals began.

After almost 64 million years, the earliest humans evolved and, approximately 200,000 years ago, our lineage, Homo sapien – Wise man, first appeared in Africa. They started migrating at least 100,000 years ago.

We are now into the Quaternary period, which started 2.5 million years ago. We’ve survived ice ages and it’s from the last one, the English Channel and the Jurassic Coast as we know it formed.

The geology of the Jurassic Coast is perhaps the finest in the world – hence it’s World Heritage Site status. There

are many fabulous rock formations and features along the Jurassic Coast. One of the most famous is Lulworth Cove, a natural harbour that is almost a perfect circle. Its formation started about 10,000 years ago when meltwater from the end of the last ice age, along with rising sea levels, eroded the cliffs. Then, thanks to wave diffraction, the cove formed as the softer clays were worn away. Nearby is Stair Hole, a naturally forming cove that possibly shows what Lulworth Cove may have looked like as it was being born.

Sitting on the 350-mile long English Channel, the southern coast of England is subject to strong tidal flows and the Atlantic weather. Formed roughly 9,000 years ago, the English Channel has a history that is vast and exciting. Once connected to mainland Europe via a land bridge, we are now

an island nation and the English Channel is our protector.

From Roman invasion to Viking pillaging, the story of the Channel could take up a whole magazine on its own.

Chesil Beach started to form around the same time. The vast 18-mile long shingle bank was created thanks to longshore drift. Wave action pushes pebbles and stones along the coast and, with Chesil Bank, the smaller pebbles have remained at the western end, increasing in size to the rocks found at Chesil Cove to the east. Rising up to 50 feet high (15 metres) and 660 feet wide (200 metres), it is a marvel of nature.

Old Harry has been a resident of the Jurassic Coast for many years. Sitting on the Purbeck Coast, this chalk stack, formed over many years, once had a partner that suffered at the mercy of the sea and collapsed in 1896. Known as Old Harry’s Wife, this smaller stack continues to be eroded.

The stacks formed through erosion and wave action. Air and water would have been forced through cracks in the cliffs, eventually forming caves and then arches. Over time the arches collapsed, leaving the stacks we see today. Old Harry is believed to have been named after the Devil who, legend has it, used to sleep on the rocks.

There is oil on the Jurassic Coast. A ‘nodding donkey’ oil pump can be seen working at Kimmeridge if you visit. The famous Burning Cliff near Ringstead is named after a naturally occurring phenomenon – a landslip in 1826 caused trapped oil and gas to ignite, which burned for three years. There have also been cliff fires caused by landslips and the shale igniting in the last 25 years.

Other notable landslips include the Hooken Slip between Beer and Branscombe in 1790. Overnight, 15 million tons of chalk and greensand cliffs collapsed. Evidence is still visible today and is best seen from the sea.

The Jurassic Coast gets the brunt of the prevailing south westerly weather. Erosion is forever unveiling new fossils and features and, over time, the sea is gradually reclaiming the land. The coastline is an evolving and living thing.

The present day Jurassic Coast is a popular tourist destination, great for the local economy but, perhaps, not so great for the environment. Along with the natural erosion caused by the sea and the weather, the beaches and cliff paths are prone to damage from footfall and littering. We need to be mindful of this and take great care when out and about. If you happen to be exploring the coast path, the beaches or even just a side street in one of the many gateway towns, please pick up a few pieces of litter and help us make a difference.

The CJC team would like thank Dorset View for its wonderful support and making us its Cause of the Year 2022. We’d also like to thank you, the readers, for donating, supporting and giving up your time to read our prose throughout the year.

The team has collected over 4,000kg of plastic from the coast in 2022. Our 2023 plans include a push on education, mainly with local schools but also on our corporate team building days. Please get in touch if you’d like to know more.

Merry Christmas and best wishes for 2023. Take care and don’t forget to reduce, reuse and recycle!

Christmas in Christchurch

Christchurch Living Advent Calendar

Advent will once again be very special in Christchurch with the Living Advent Calendar returning to the town.

Yuletide Festival

Christmas begins in Christchurch with the Yuletide Festival on Saturday 26 November.

Entertainment includes a parade, music, a Carol service and a market before the lights switch on at 5.30pm.

Last year’s event raised nearly £20,000 for 24 different regional charities, bringing festive cheer to enthusiastic audiences on 24 consecutive evenings across 24 pop-up venues.

Organised by volunteers led by The Rotary Club of Christchurch, each evening will be sponsored by a local business or organisation. All administration expenses are covered by the Primrose Trust fund so all the money raised each evening goes directly to the designated local charity.

Originally a concept created over 15 years ago in Stockholm, Sweden, Christchurch’s pop-up living advent calendar will run daily from Thursday 1 to Friday 24 December. Each evening at 6.15pm, a different ‘door’ or ‘window’ at a town centre venue will be opened to reveal a 30-minute performance which could be by choirs, singers, bands, dance troupes, individual musicians, or

theatrical groups – you’ll have to be there on the night to see who is performing.

The venues and supported charities will be advertised in advance via the CLAC website, the programme brochure, and social media: the performers will not be revealed until each door or window opens, just as in a children’s Advent calendar. There will be a special Christmas Eve closing event on 24 December in Saxon Square at the earlier time of 2pm.

The Living Advent Calendar not only features local talent and charities but is supported by local businesses, with venue operators offering their space as a location for the daily performances, and sponsors making substantial contributions to the designated charities.

For more information, visit christchurchlivingadventcalendar.org. uk, or follow Christchurch’s festive advent elves on social media: Instagram Christchurch_living_advent, and Facebook. Alternatively, email christchurchlivingadvent@gmail.com.

Singer Susie Kimber

Yuletide Festival © Becky Takes Photos

Events

Details were correct at the time of going to print. Send information about your events to newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk

2-24 December 4.30pm

Christmas trail at Kingston Lacy. Last entry 8pm, closes 10pm. christmasatkingstonlacy. seetickets.com

2-4 December

Christmas Arts and Crafts weekend at Pamphill Village Hall. Friday 1-4pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-4pm.

3 December, 11am-3pm

RNLI Mudeford fundraising crew Christmas Fayre at Mudeford Wood Community Centre.

3 December 7.30pm

Wimborne Choral Society with Wimborne Chamber Orchestra presents Handel’s Messiah in Wimborne Minster. Tickets from: 01202 603569, Square Records or on the door.

3 December 1.30pm

Broadstone Christmas parade leaves from Story Lane. Musical markets 10am-1.30pm and markets until 3pm.

3 December 7.30pm

Vivamente Voices concert for Mosaic at St Nicholas’ Church, Corfe Mullen. Tickets £10. Email: vivamentevoices@ gmail.com or phone 01929 781777.

4 December 3pm

Christmas Fair, tree lighting and Carols at St Michael’s Church, Colehill.

5 December 10.15am

Bonny Sartin of the Yetties will talk on Smugglers and sing Christmas songs at the Wimborne Minster WI meeting at St Catherine’s Church Hall. Call Jill Haywood 01202 888194.

5 December 7-10pm

The Wessex Friends meets at The Cobham Flight Refuelling Sports & Social Club, Malcolm Angel will talk on The Tivoli. email derekabaker@hotmail.co.uk

5 December doors open

6.30pm,

eyes down 7pm

Bingo to raise funds for John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation at The Cumberland Hotel, Bournemouth. Tickets from www.jtyaf.org or call Pete on 07792 121645.

6 and 17 December 2-4pm

Fordingbridge Conservation Group working parties on Bishop’s Pond conservation site at the corner of Normandy Way and Cottage Mews, SP6 1 RJ. www. fordingbridgeconservation.uk

9 December 2-4pm

Stepping Out Community Tea Dance for those with memory loss and dementia at Broadstone War Memorial Hall, Tudor Road. To book phone Lesley Shand on 01202 658833.

10 December

Save the Children Christmas Parade in Wimborne starting from Brook Road at 2pm. Entertainment in the High Street and Square from 10am-5pm.

10 December 10am-4pm

The Great Christmas Pudding Stir at the Museum of East Dorset. Normal admission price, free for annual pass holders and members.

10 December 5pm

Christmas Extravaganza on Ferrett Green, Verwood during which the mayor will turn on the Christmas lights.

12 December 2.30pm

Neil Lucas of Knoll Gardens will give a talk to West Moors Horticultural Society in the Memorial Hall. Call Sue on 01202 871536.

13 December 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening Club meets at West Parley Memorial Hall for a Christmas social evening. Contact Rod Darch 01202 896711.

14 December 6.30-9pm

Bournemouth Big Band, Swing and Jazz Club meets downstairs in Kinson Community Centre. £3 inc refreshments. Details from www.bournemouthjazzclub.org

14 December 7.30pm

East Dorset Antiquarian Society meets at St Catherine’s Church, Wimborne for a talk on Redefining the Neolithic Map. www. dorset-archaeology.org.uk

15 December 7.30pm

Cantilena Voices concert in aid of Dorset MIND at St Nicholas’ Church, Corfe Mullen. Tickets £10. email hellocantilenavoices@gmail. com or phone 01929 781777.

17 December 11am

Shoppers’ carol service in Wimborne Minster.

19 December 7pm

A Time Traveller’s Christmas Concert at St Nicholas’ Church, Corfe Mullen. Tickets from www. broadstonemusicseries.info

19 December 7.30pm

Colehill Floral Arrangement Club. Visitors welcome £5. Colehill Village Hall, Cannon Hill Road. Meetings every 3rd Monday. Contact 01202 610902.

COMPETITION Cinderella at

the Regent Centre, Christchurch

The award winning Highcliffe Charity Players are inviting theatre goers to the ball, as they perform Cinderella at the Regent Centre.

The pantomime is suitable for the whole family and promises to be full of magic, laughter and spectacular surprises.

Polish off your pumpkins, dust off your gowns and join Prince Charming as he hosts the party of the year in search of his one true love. Will he succeed before the clock strikes 12? Will the hilarious Ugly Sisters steal his heart? Or will the Fairy Godmother ensure we all live happily ever after?

Cinderella runs from Friday 27 to Sunday 29 January 2023 with six performances to choose from. Tickets are available online at www.theregent.co.uk, from the Regent Centre box office or by calling 01202 499199.

Tickets £13.50, £12.50 concessions. All tickets include £1 to the Regent Development Fund. Book before 31 December to receive £1 off your ticket price.

Dorset View has teamed up with the Regent Centre to offer a family ticket (two adults and two children under 16) to Cinderella on Sunday 29 January 2023 at 6pm.

Q. In Cinderella, who is the host of the ball?

How to enter

Enter online at www.dorsetview.co.uk or send your answer to the address on page three of this magazine. Closing date is 19 December 2022. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd and the Regent Centre, Christchurch are not permitted to enter. There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner of the competition. The winner will be announced in the magazine and their name and phone number will be passed to the venue or the promoters for the purposes of allocating the ticket.

It’s time!Panto

Any pantos planned for 2020 were severely disrupted because of lockdowns and there were fewer performances in the Christmas and New Year period 2021/2022 but 2022/2023 looks like it’s going to be bumper time for these popular productions. Oh yes it is!

Tarrant Valley Players are one of the first to stage a local panto with George and the Dragon at The Anne Biddlecombe Hall, Tarrant Keyneston from Thursday 1 to Saturday 3 December. Tickets from ben.bayer@hotmail.com or from The True Lovers Knot pub.

Bournemouth Pavilion is producing Beauty and the Beast from Saturday 3 December to Monday 2 January. It stars EastEnders favourite Emma Barton as Fairy Bon Bon. Tickets from https:// www.bournemouthpavilion.co.uk/panto

Lighthouse in Poole is staging Cinderella from Thursday 8 to Saturday 31 December. Written by Chris Jarvis, it stars Tyger DrewHoney.

The Barrington Theatre, Ferndown, will be showing The Wizard of Oz from 15 to 24 December. Tickets from www.barringtoncentre. co.uk

Made to Measure Productions are bringing Aladdin to the Tivoli Wimborne from Friday 16 December to Monday 2 January. It stars Britain’s Got Talent’s Courtney Jackson as Widow Twankey. There will also be three adults only performances on 29 and 31 December and 2 January. Tickets from the box office on 01202 885566 or from www.tivoliwimborne.co.uk

The tale of Father Christmas and his hardworking elves is the theme of the Best Ever Christmas Show at Wimborne’s Allendale Centre from 10 to 24 December. It is produced by Ron Martin Management and Born2Perform. Tickets from https://www.theallendale.org/ box-office

The Glad Rag Production Company is bringing the Christmas Spectacular back to the Regent Centre, Christchurch from 17 to 24 December. Tickets from www.theregent.co.uk

All Saints Dramatic Society are to stage Dick Whittington at Corpus Christi Parish Centre in Boscombe from Friday 6 January until Sunday 15 January. Tickets from 07548 100 770 or www.ticketsource.co.uk/asds

Verwood Pantomime Society presents Aladdin at Verwood Hub from Saturday 21 to Saturday 28 January. Tickets from the box office on 01202 828740 or www.verwoodpantomimesociety.co.uk

Highcliffe Charity Players, which raises money for local good causes, are presenting Cinderella from Friday 27 January to Sunday 29 January at the Regent Centre, Christchurch with six performances at different times. Tickets from https://www. regentcentre.co.uk/

Colehill Music and Drama Society (Co.Mad), which over the years has raised thousands of pounds for local charities, is producing Mother Goose written by founder member of the society, Pam Mizon. It will be staged in Colehill Village Hall from Friday 3 February to Sunday 5 February.

For your chance to win, all you have to do is answer the following question.

Christmas gift campaign

YMCA Bournemouth is hoping that when you make a list of people for whom you would like to buy Christmas presents, that you include someone in need.

The charity’s ‘Prezzies for Rezzies’ encourages people to write Christmas cards and donate gifts to residents of YMCA Bournemouth’s supported housing services. Last year’s campaign saw 114 residents given cards and presents, including toiletries, clothing, and chocolate.

Collection points are located at The Junction Centre in Broadstone, Delta House on Westover Road, and Pokesdown and Southbourne Children’s centre. Gifts should be new and unwrapped so that the charity can put together a selection for each supported housing resident to receive on Christmas Day.

To find out more and donate, visit https://www. ymcabournemouth.org.uk/housing/prezzies-for-rezzies/

Debra Stephenson to light up Westbourne

TV celeb Debra Stephenson will turn on the Christmas lights in Westbourne on 3 December ahead of a month of seasonal festivities.

The Westbourne Christmas Festival, which is run by Westbourne Business Association in partnership with Bournemouth Coastal BID, is expected to attract hundreds on every Saturday in December.

Bars, pubs, cafés and coffee shops will be open to welcome the visitors who can also take advantage of late night shopping on Thursdays.

Fiona McArthur, from Bournemouth Coastal BID, said: “This festival in Westbourne is one of many things we will be supporting across our areas in the run-up to Christmas.

“Every Saturday in December there will be story telling at 10.30am and live music all afternoon.

“The Thursday late night shopping is sponsored by Midas Prosecco and there will be free popcorn and pizza.

“Traders will be collecting food and clothing for Hope for Food and all donations are welcome.”

Debra Stephenson will be joined by the mayor and mayoress of Bournemouth at 4.30pm for the big switch-on. There will also be a £100 prize draw every week - visit www. westbournechristmas.com

Did you know holly branches were used to make the house look festive long before pine trees were introduced? Holly was used as far back as the Roman times. The prickly leaves were thought to symbolise the crown of thorns Jesus wore.

Warming up last year

Santas to enjoy River Stour run

Santa Claus is coming to town – well, in fact, lots of them.

Wimborne Rotary is organising the Santa Stour River Fun Run on Sunday 4 December to raise funds for local children’s charities.

It starts at 10am from Wimborne Football Club, Ainsley Road, Wimborne, BH21 2FU, where free parking will be available. Entrants will be able to choose from either a 2.5k or 5k course. The route will run alongside the River Stour.

Entry is £10 for adults and £5 for under-18s, with all proceeds going to Julia’s House. Entrants should pre-book by registering at www.wimbornerotary.org/giving. There will also be limited places for those who turn up on the day, but with pre-booking guaranteeing a place.

All entrants will receive a free Santa suit and a mince pie. Whether entering as an individual, a family, or as a team, runners are also encouraged to fundraise for their own favourite charities by seeking sponsorship.

Christmas events with Diverse Abilities

Christmas will be a time of celebration for Diverse Abilities this year, with a number of events planned.

On Wednesday 7 December, the 2021 Great British Bake Off contestant Maggie the Seaside Baker, will be sharing her tips for making the perfect Christmas pudding whilst you mix along with her and the rest of the group. Tickets are £30 per person and include all the ingredients to make a delicious Christmas pudding.

The charity with be hosting its annual Carol Concert in Wimborne Minster on Wednesday 21 December from 6pm, with entertainment from Razzamataz Bournemouth, Sound of Soul and Lucy Donovan. The concert will be hosted Blair Crawford, the founder and president of Hope FM, with readings from Christine Bueno, former Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Maggie the Seaside Baker, and John Smith, chairman of Diverse Abilities.

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/events for more information and to book your tickets.

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A better night’s sleep on a budget

The bedroom is a place to relax and unwind, but it can sometimes be hard to switch off at night, which can affect your ability to sleep. However, there are opportunities to improve sleep through decoration that don’t break the bank.

These five ways to decorate your bedroom to promote a good night’s sleep are courtesy of Bed Kingdom.

Bring the outside in

Plants are a great way to bring life into your bedroom, and the greenery adds a calming effect. They lower blood pressure which decreases levels of the stress hormone cortisol, and improve air quality.

English ivy is said to be one of the most effective plants for cleansing the air of benzene, a harmful

chemical that contributes to air pollution. These plants can live up to 100 years, so with proper maintenance, it’s a long-term investment.

Find the right lighting

With the right lighting, you can create a cosy ambience and rest easy at night. Bulbs that emit an amber light are the best option as they promote melatonin – the hormone that controls the sleep cycle. In addition, they protect your eyes from blue light which is emitted from electronic devices and can disrupt your sleeping cycle. LED bulbs are the best option when you’re on a budget as they use a lot less energy than incandescent bulbs.

Consider the colour scheme

The colour of your bedroom will not only determine just how aesthetically pleasing it is, but you can also use it to your advantage to help you sleep better.

Soft blues calm the mind and help concentration, therefore helping you to be more relaxed and switch off at night.

Pale shades of yellow can contribute to a positive mood, thus working to reduce stress that may sometimes keep you up during the night.

Shade of green, as long as they are blue-toned as opposed to warm-toned, can be sleep inducing. Non-stimulating, they

help us to feel more peaceful and calmer, allowing us to relax.

Invest in your bed

Given that your bed is essentially the most vital piece of furniture in your room, it can make or break the aesthetic – and more importantly, it’s a huge factor when it comes to sleep.

Opting for white cotton for your bedding is a timeless look – it’s a neutral shade that will match any other colours in the room, so you can keep it around if you ever switch up the colour scheme.

Your mattress is another element of your bed that shouldn’t be neglected – look for one that keeps your back aligned while you sleep to ensure that its comfortable and therefore long-lasting.

Combine scents with decoration Reed diffusers add a delightful scent to your bedroom, as well as a decorative touch without having to splurge, and can improve your sleep due to aiding relaxation.

It’s important to pick the right scents to ensure that you reap the benefits. Lavender is a relaxing scent and is used for many people who suffer from insomnia, and chamomile is also helpful to promote sleep as it reduces your body’s temperature and lowers your heart rate.

Six ways to be creative with poinsettias

Known as the Christmas flower, the poinsettia’s striking red foliage is not a flower.

The flowers (cyathia) are inconspicuous and sit in the middle of the coloured bracts. Fresh plants will have flowers that are still in bud.

Poinsettias have been used to enhance homes during the festive season for centuries.

Native to Central America, Mexican legend tells of a girl who could only afford to offer weeds as a gift to Jesus, but when she took them into the church they blossomed into beautiful red plants.

Careful cultivation from Europe’s leading poinsettia growers has resulted in countless floral varieties in an array of colours.

As well as the traditional red, poinsettias come in white, cream and yellow through to amber, orange

and eye-popping pinks.

Here are some ideas to inspire you for the 2022 festive season.

1. Festive wreath

Spruce and fir cones, rosehips, pine twigs and cut poinsettias can be used to decorate an Advent wreath in an on-trend nature-inspired style.

Tip: Immediately after cutting, dip the poinsettia stems briefly in hot water (approximately 60°C) and then in cold water. Place them in water-filled test tubes then insert them into the wreath. This keeps the star-shaped bracts beautifully fresh for up to two weeks.

2. Pretty gifts

For pretty gifts, drinking jars with lids and integrated straws are ideal for use as mini vases. Fill with water, replace the straws with cut poinsettias and tie pine sprigs to the lids with string.

3. Add bold accents

Red poinsettias add bold accents to black kitchen units and black bathroom cabinets so don’t draw the line at using poinsettias as a centrepiece on your dining room table.

4. Unite with candles

Together with tall candles, poinsettias add a majestic touch to any centrepiece as they signal the arrival of Christmas.

5. Floating plants

Mini poinsettias used as floating plants in wine glasses are a stylish table decoration that’s quick to make. Take the plants out of their pots then carefully wash the root balls until the fine root system is exposed. Finally, arrange the poinsettias in glasses filled with water. These decorations might last the entire festive period,

as many plants grow well in hydroponics (plant roots kept in water), but this method does leave your poinsettias prone to risks such as rotting roots and stems. It’s best to see this as a short-term decoration idea, like an alternative to cut flowers.

6. Alternative colour

For those in search of a softer, lighter look this Christmas, you can also choose beautiful coloured plants for different trend themes from fairy tale tablescapes to urban jungles or mid-century style.