Welcome to Mudeford Mag
So much to see and do…
I find this time of year always brings a flurry of activity, from chocolate-themed events to festivals, and of course, it’s the perfect time to dust off the tent and enjoy those first camping trips of the year. My dog particularly looks forward to this as it usually involves a few snacks – sometimes planned, sometimes not. All good fun. Things are just as lively back at the office, with the team busy putting together event programmes for the summer months. There are so many events to look forward to in this beautiful county. Speaking of exciting things, have you heard about our new podcast? We’ve launched Your Voice | Dorset Podcast which is available on streaming platforms, YouTube and the website dorsetview.co.uk. We’re enjoying talking to lots of local people who have fascinating tales to tell! We’re always looking for ideas on how to make the most of Dorset. Why not share your favourite camping spot or walk? We’d love to hear your recommendations! And if you prefer to enjoy the season through food, our new contributor, Colin Nash, has provided a delicious recipe to try.
Rebecca Smith
A year of infinite possibilities and transformation
By Elizabeth McPherson
With spring upon us, it seems only right that I talk a little about Numerology and how, in 2025, we are in a Year 9, a time of endings and transformation.
The origins of Numerology date back to the dawning of civilisation. We can trace Western Numerology back to Pythagoras (570–490 BCE), Chaldean Numerology back to the Chaldeans and Babylonians (2300–900BCE), and Indian Numerology back to some of the oldest religious texts called Vedas (1500–1200 BCE).
From what I know of this subject, the Numerology chart runs in years of one to nine, and after that, you begin again. 2025 is a Year 9 (2+0+2+5 = 9) so what that means for us mere mortals is that it is a time to let go (even if it means making some big decisions).
Here are some key points about a Year 9 that might give you food for thought:
• It’s a year of completion, unravelling, and letting go of the old to make space for the new.
• This change can be somewhat dramatic and tumultuous — affecting possessions, relationships, jobs, geographical location, spirituality, and health.
• It is a time of preparing yourself for the next nine-year cycle.
I know at this stage in my life, I feel like there are things I want to achieve and to do this, I
need to let go of some stuff. At the moment, I am going through my wardrobe with a fine-toothed comb, asking myself if I really want to keep each item of clothing. If it’s a no, it’s being donated to charity or sold on Vinted. The same applies to other household items. If it has a purpose, then fine, it can stay. If it does not, it goes. I am being ruthless, and I am really enjoying it!
As a global collective, it is also a year of endings, completion and transformation. We will be given time to pause and reflect on the previous nine years and focus on making positive changes in our lives and in the lives of those around us. In Numerology, the number 9 is deeply tied to spiritual growth, humanitarianism, and universal love. It’s a year that asks you to elevate your vision — looking beyond your own personal interests and focusing on how you can contribute to the greater good.
Be mindful to set your intentions towards the future and free yourself of anything that is holding you back.
With Love, Beth
Photo by BoliviaInteligente on Unsplash
WIN TICKETS FOR THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC 2025
FRIDAY 18 JULY 7.30PM AT THE REGENT, CHRISTCHURCH
The ultimate tribute to ABBA is coming to Christchurch.
This international smash-hit tribute show brings all of ABBA’s number one hits to the stage in a production like no other. The hugely popular show combines unmistakable harmonies, colourful costumes, and dazzling performances by the all-star cast.
Head to the Regent for the party of the year, with all the hits including Waterloo, Dancing Queen, Super Trouper, Mamma Mia, Knowing Me, Knowing You, Gimme, Gimme, Gimme, The Winner Takes It All and many more.
REGENT CENTRE BOX OFFICE
01202 499199
TICKETS £33
For your chance to win a pair of tickets to the show, simply find Sammy Seagull who is hiding somewhere inside this month’s magazine (excluding this page).
Email the page number where he appears and your contact details to competition@ themudefordmag.co.uk
Closing date is 31 May 2025
PREVIOUS WINNER:
Tickets for The Rolling Stones Story were won by Kim Coltart who correctly answered that Sammy was hidden on page xiii.
Coffee Break Time
How to solve codeword
Every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number.
All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number.
To start you off we reveal the code for 3 letters.
Solutions on page xxii
sponsored by Louis P Creative
Coffee Break Time
How Christchurch Community Partnership is tackling loneliness and isolation
By Rev Sandra Prudom, Christchurch Community Partnership chief executive
We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this magazine and would like to introduce ourselves for those who don’t know us.
Christchurch Community Partnership is a local independent charity, committed to working with others towards the eradication of social isolation and loneliness for our residents.
We do this in a variety of ways, both by directly delivering a range of services, particularly to our isolated, older residents, and also by helping other organisations come together through events like the Christchurch Conversations, as well as bringing the community together to support smaller groups and projects at the Christchurch Soups.
Last year’s Soup event focused on children and young people’s projects, and we were able to award £3,450 of funding across the eight excellent groups presenting their projects. We are looking to repeating this very successful event again later this year on 20 October.
In terms of our services, we operate two transport services, and both our minibuses and our Neighbour Cars services are kept busy getting residents to weekly Lunch Clubs, seated exercise classes and our monthly Coffee Connections,
Continued on next page
The crowd at last year’s Christchurch Soup
The charity hosts monthly Coffee Connections
as well as our monthly Sunday Roasts for those living alone, who find weekends difficult.
We were immensely honoured in 2022 to receive one of the last Queen’s Awards for Voluntary Services, in recognition of our many committed volunteers, without whom we could not operate. With the support of our small paid staff team, these volunteers are integral to delivering all our services, from driving minibuses or cars, bus buddying, and helping at the Lunch Clubs or Coffee Connections, to helping with the annual events like the Christmas Day Community Lunch and the IDOP Cream Teas.
We are also privileged to be the Charity Partner this year for both Avon Reach Care Home in Mudeford and for Christchurch Carnival, and we are looking forward to being involved with both.
One of our highest values as a charity is collaboration, as by working together we can achieve so much more for our residents. We therefore actively seek to partner with other organisations serving the community of Christchurch, and already work closely with
many, including our town council, BCP Council, our Primary Care Network, local schools, churches and businesses, as well as other charities.
We are looking forward to another busy year, so if you know anyone who could benefit from any of our services or would like to explore the opportunities for volunteering with us, please do contact us, using the details below.
T 01202 989632
E contact@ccpartnership.org.uk
W christchurchcommunitypartnership.org.uk
Fancy a Sunday roast?
Volunteers are integral to delivering the charity’s services
Have a splashing fun time this summer
Children will be able to enjoy splashing about in paddling pools in the BCP Council area this summer, thanks to the community joining forces with the council.
The Quomps Splashpark at Christchurch Quay, which transferred in 2024 to Christchurch Town Council, is set to reopen in the coming months, ready for summer fun.
Further afield, Redhill paddling pool will welcome families once more, after the council agreed to allocate funding from this year’s budget which, together with significant staff resources, will help to keep the facility open for 2025, whilst a more sustainable funding option is sought.
Hamworthy Park paddling pool will be partfunded by BCP Council, with a subsidy from The Friends of Hamworthy Park, and from the park’s cafe concession.
Also getting ready to make a splash this summer is Littledown Park paddling pool, which is managed and operated by registered charity BH Live in partnership with BCP Council.
Cllr Millie Earl, leader of the council, said: “This is joint working between the council and the BCP community at its very best, and we would like to see much more of this type of collaboration in the future. This is why we are proposing a community governance review – to give local communities more of a say in what matters to them.”
The Quomps Splashpark in Christchurch Quay
Precipice by Robert Harris, paperback £9.99 (released 24 April)
In a world on the brink of catastrophe, 26-year-old Venetia Stanley is having a love affair with the Prime Minister, H. H. Asquith. She is aristocratic, clever, bored and reckless. He is a man more than twice her age. He writes to her obsessively, sharing the most sensitive matters of state. As Asquith reluctantly leads the country into war with Germany, a young intelligence officer is assigned to investigate a leak of top secret documents, and suddenly what was a sexual intrigue becomes a matter of national security that will alter the course of political history.
Book Reviews
By Kirsty Robinson
Is a River Alive?
by Robert Macfarlane, hardback £20
From celebrated writer Robert Macfarlane comes this brilliant, perspective-shifting new book, which answers a resounding yes to the question of its title. At its heart is the idea that rivers are not mere matter for human use, but living beings that should be recognised as such in both imagination and law. Macfarlane takes the reader on an exhilarating exploration of the past, present and future of this ancient concept. The book flows first to northern Ecuador, where a miraculous cloud-forest and its rivers are threatened by gold mining. It then moves to the wounded rivers, creeks and lagoons of southern India, where a desperate battle to save the lives of these waterbodies is under way. Finally, we are taken to north-eastern Quebec, where a spectacular wild river, the Mutehekau or Magpie, is being defended from death by a river-rights campaign.
The Bedtime Book of Even More Impossible Questions by Isabel Thomas, hardback £12.99
Following on from ‘The Bedtime Book of Impossible Questions’, this book provides even more answers to the weird, wonderful and sometimes downright dumbfounding questions that buzz around kids’ brains at bedtime. Covering topics such as philosophy, science, nature, animals, geography, culture and more with fascinating but short, succinct answers and inviting illustrations, it really is the ideal read for curious kids. A perfect gift for all junior school age children!
Why not pop into the shop to have a browse and see lots of lovely new publications for spring? Or you can contact us on 01202 418403, email sales@bh6booksandhome.co.uk or find us on social media @bh6booksandhome to place orders and discover all that we have to offer at BH6 Books and Home, 69 Southbourne Grove, BH6 3QU.
Garlic king prawns & red mullet in miso broth
By Colin Nash | Head Chef | colinnashrestaurant.co.uk
Miso is a nutritious, high-protein product fermented from soybeans and salt (or a combination of soybeans, grains and salt) that is available at all natural food stores and Asian groceries. If you are a more experienced cook, you can add more flavours like lemon peel, ginger, sesame seeds and seaweed to name a few. It’s just a great dish to play with that tastes good and warms your taste senses without the use of cream.
INGREDIENTS: Method:
Serves 4
600g red mullet fillets divided into 4 portions
12 king prawns
100g miso paste
2 baby pak choi
50g enoki mushrooms
4 cooked new potatoes
1 small onion
1 carrot
1 stick of celery
1 small leek
1 litre of cold water
2 tbsp dark soy sauce
2 cloves of garlic
1 head of broccoli
1 tsp sugar
A little sesame oil or olive oil
Salt and pepper
Wash, peel and chop the onion, carrot, celery and leek, and fry in a saucepan in oil until slightly brown. Add one clove of crushed garlic, the miso paste, soy sauce, sugar and water. Bring to the boil and simmer for two hours. If the liquid reduces too quickly below the line of the vegetables, add a little more water and keep the vegetables covered in juice. Pass through a fine sieve into a new saucepan and discard the vegetables. Taste the sauce and add a little more water if you find it to be too strong in flavour. You can season with a little salt and pepper to get the flavour how you like it but be cautious with the salt. Leave to cool on the side.
Wash, trim and cut your pak choi into eight pieces slicing lengthways and add to the strained miso broth. Wash and cut your broccoli into small florets and add to the broth, as well as wedges of new potatoes and trimmed enoki mushrooms.
Heat up a heavy frying pan until very hot, then add a little oil and the other clove of garlic (slightly crushed). Season and fry your red mullet fillets skin side down, pressing the fish against the pan to prevent them curling up for 20 seconds and fry for about one minute so the skin goes crispy or a light golden colour. Turn the fillets carefully and then add the prawns to the pan and fry for one minute and turn them again carefully. Remove from the heat and leave to rest for a couple of minutes; they will both continue cooking without heat.
Bring your broth back to the boil and simmer for three to four minutes with a lid on the saucepan. Pour into four bowls, arrange your fish on top, and serve.
Colin Nash Restaurant
Lyndhurst Road, Hinton, Christchurch, BH23 7EF
T: 01425 200050
W: www.colinnashrestaurant.co.uk
Happiness depends on ourselves
A self-defeating behaviour is any behaviour or attitude that stands in the way of a person reaching their full potential in a healthy manner. We all tend to perform some of these behaviours, such as perfectionism or procrastination, and some will adversely affect us more than others: for instance, eating disorders, addictions, and self-harm.
Our mind collects and identifies information from external and internal sources to decide what action is required. The goal is to keep us alive, happy and relatively tension- and risk-free. The conscious mind will then delegate these actions to the subconscious to free up conscious space for thinking. The subconscious stores things that have been previously experienced and learned, and these develop as unconscious habits.
We often learn these behaviours in childhood from parents, teachers or peers (external sources) when we are too young to question their actions. By the time we do, it’s too late and the damage is done. The behaviour then becomes so deep rooted that it appears to us to be an inherent part of our personality, and we feel that it is something that can’t be changed or, if it could be changed, it would be far too scary to do so.
These behaviours often start at a time when we are feeling vulnerable and under threat. At the beginning, they may serve a purpose to relieve anxiety and modulate emotion. The behaviour (and its resultant emotion) is
then stored in the subconscious and becomes a habit. Initially, it may be successful in achieving our goal but with time it becomes generalised to other situations where it is no longer effective. Over time, the behaviour can then become a problem in its own right, and becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy, resulting in just that which one is attempting to avoid.
Having reacted that way for years, admitting one needs to change one’s behaviour can be very difficult. These behaviours are maintained by irrational beliefs, fear of change and lack of belief that one can change. We minimise the costs of these behaviours and make excuses for why we do them, thus removing the possibility of changing to healthier actions. We continue them for fear of what might happen if we don’t.
We fear changing them because of the fear of failure or even the fear of success, which can be seen as an elongated path to failure. Metaphorically speaking, if you get to the top of the hill there is only one way to go: down! We also disown responsibility for our behaviour and put the blame on others for how we react.
Change will only occur if the cost or perceived cost of continuing the behaviour is greater than not continuing it. Whatever and wherever these behaviours come from must be faced and released, for success to be achieved and sustained. Therapy can help one travel to the point of taking responsibility for one’s attitudes and actions and embrace the power to perform healthier behaviours in place of the self-defeating ones. The work that the client does, however, is paramount to success.
Therapy isn’t a cure, in and of itself. It’s not something someone does to us, or for us; it just provides an arena where healing can take place.
Dr Armorel Wood MBACP, accred MNCS Professional Counsellor
077665915211 |woodarmorel@gmail.com www.mapletreetherapy.org.uk
The Staple Cross enigma
By Julie Ratcliffe, Christchurch History Society
Staple Cross is not only an ancient landmark, but an enigma that has been puzzling local historians for many years. The CHS archive has a folder of items, journal articles and even a booklet on what its origins and uses could have been, but still there is no consensus. As historians, we try to find primary source evidence, but what if none has been found? Even
Historic England, which lists Staple Cross as a scheduled ancient monument, offers no information.
Around 1943, the cross was damaged by a tank as US soldiers prepared for D-Day. The remnants sit at the end of Salisbury Road, Burton. Fortunately, the CHS archive holds some lovely pictures of what it once looked like.
Many similar monuments can be found across the country and are considered medieval. The place itself, Staple Cross, was a ‘Vill’ (a settlement or village) that is mentioned in the Christchurch Cartulary – medieval Priory documents relating to all kinds of topics. The earliest mention here is in 1270, Stapele (Latin for stack, which could indicate the stones). There have been numerous theories as to the monument’s purpose. Here are a few:
Waymarker – The cross is at a point where roads meet, connecting Christchurch to and from Salisbury, Burley and Lymington. An 1830 directory lists Staple Cross on the Salisbury to Christchurch road.
Market cross – Several roads meeting would suggest a good place to trade. The word ‘staple’ originates in ‘estape’, meaning emporium, and ‘etape’, halting place, which connect to marketplaces, goods, and even our basic foods: ‘staples’.
Butter cross – As with the market cross, but only for dairy produce. One story tells of Burton villagers leaving food here for plague victims, though this would apply to all foods.
Preaching cross – Used in medieval times where there was no local church. The road would
have been rough and rutted, and not everyone would have been able to manage the walk to Christchurch Priory. It has been suggested that such a post would have likely been destroyed by Parliamentarians during the English Civil War. Boundary cross – Staple Cross was within the Manor of Somerford. The cross could have marked a boundary with other medieval manors. Personally, a good clue is that the monument wasn’t a cross as in a religious symbol. This indicates the ‘cross’ is a crossroads. But even this doesn’t differentiate between a waymarker and a place for trade. I feel it could have been both a way marker and a trading place, but unless some ancient document appears with the answer, we’ll never know.
Visit www.historychristchurch.org.uk. To ‘ask an archivist’, email enquiries@historychristchurch.org.uk.
Talks:
Held at Christchurch Junior School, Clarendon Road, BH23 2AA, 7pm–10pm
6 May – A look back at the past, by Janet Burn. A digital presentation from Janet’s family collection of original Victorian glass slides
3 June – Christchurch in World War II, by Paul De Jonghe
Staple Cross pre 1940s © Christchurch History Society
Staple Cross in 2025.
Photo by Michael Ratcliffe
The best way to enjoy the beauty of the Norwegian fjords
See some of the world’s most incredible scenery on a cruise from Southampton
By Austin Rowlands
Unless you’re an intrepid mountain hiker, you’ll find it nearly impossible to experience the untouched beauty of the Norwegian fjords on a land-based holiday. Thankfully, a Norwegian fjords cruise is specifically designed to help you experience the very best this stunning region has to offer, all from the comfort of your ship. From soaring snow-capped mountains to charming coastal villages and unforgettable natural wonders, a Norwegian fjords cruise is one of the most spectacular trips you could ever take. And best of all, you can sail there on a roundtrip from nearby Southampton in just one week. Here are just some of the highlights you could be enjoying…
Olden
For take-your-breath-away scenery, there’s no beating stunning Olden. The picturesque village is snuggled in a lush green river valley at the end of Nordfjord. I highly recommend taking a shore excursion to the crowning glory of the region: the unmissable Briksdal Glacier (you can either hike or take a troll car). It shows Norwegian nature at its best.
Geirangerfjord
One of Norway’s most famous fjords, Geirangerfjord is renowned for its dramatic cliffs and stunning waterfalls, including the iconic Seven Sisters waterfall. Cruising through this pristine waterway allows you to witness the sheer grandeur of nature up close.
Ålesund
Ålesund is beautifully set across several islands, offering you dramatic views of the surrounding fjords and the Sunnmøre Alps. If you’re feeling energetic, take a guided hike up to the top of Sukkertoppen (Sugar Top) mountain for truly out-of-this-world views.
Ålesund at night
Trondheim
As the former Viking capital and home to the stunning Nidaros Cathedral, Scandinavia’s largest medieval building, it offers a rich glimpse into Norway’s heritage. The city’s charming Bakklandet District, with its colourful wooden houses and quaint cafes along the Nidelva River, is perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Flåm and its iconic railway
The small village of Flåm offers one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. The Flåm Railway takes passengers through lush valleys, rugged mountains, and picturesque waterfalls, providing an unforgettable perspective of Norway’s stunning landscape.
Bergen
A visit to Bergen, with its colourful Bryggen Wharf and historic charm, is a highlight of any fjord cruise. This vibrant city is a cultural hub with lively markets, charming cafes, and a rich maritime history.
Lysefjord and the spectacular Pulpit Rock
The Lysefjord is famous for its dramatic rock formations, including the iconic Pulpit Rock (Preikestolen). Towering 600m above the fjord, this cliff offers breathtaking panoramic views and is a must-see for adventurous travellers.
The Northen Lights in Tromsø
For longer cruises venturing further north, Tromsø offers the chance to witness the Northern Lights in winter or experience the Midnight Sun in summer. This Arctic city also boasts rich Sami culture and exciting outdoor adventures.
Think cruising’s not for you? Think again
If you’ve never been on a cruise before, you might be surprised by what’s in store. You
won’t find a holiday anywhere else that can offer you the breadth of destinations, the scale of adventure, the range of experiences and the calibre of dining and entertainment (did I forget to mention accommodation?) for the same price. And best of all, you can tick off many of your dream destinations and only unpack once.
Why book your cruise with Effortless Holidays?
With so many variables when it comes to cruise itineraries and ships, it can be a bit overwhelming when picking your first cruise. Large ship or something more intimate? Sea view cabin or balcony? What are the dining options? Is the drinks package worth it?
Not sure where to start? As your personal travel consultant, I’ll work hard to make sure your holiday is effortless and specifically tailored to you. Effortless Holidays’ independent status means we can provide you with impartial advice and support and offer you special deals and discounts you won’t find on the high street. At the very least, we’ll always be able to price match, so you’ll never need to pay more to use our service. If you’d like to learn more about cruising in Norway, or have any other travel plans you’d like to discuss, please get in touch.
Austin Rowlands
Effortless Holidays
T: 01202 948338 or 01425 562132
M: 07701092290
E: austinrowlands@effortlessholidays.co.uk
W: www.effortlessholidays.co.uk
Pulpit Rock overlooking Lysefjord
Planting with confidence
By Colin Knapman
With the unpredictable weather we are experiencing nowadays, it is important to bear this in mind when planning any changes in your garden or buying new plants. What looks good in a magazine or online may not suit your garden or be tough enough for your particular environment. A few tips that should help are:
• Dig in plenty of organic compost to improve the soil beforehand (much better than adding chemical fertilizers later).
• Add a top surface dressing of mulch such as bark, gravel or slate (it not only looks good, but suppresses weeds and stops the soil drying out too quickly).
• Ensure a good balance of evergreen shrubs, summer flowering perennials and bulbs for all year-round interest.
• Position your plants before planting (to ensure spacing is correct).
• Add a bit of zing with a real specimen plant (such as a topiary ball or olive tree).
For further advice on what to plant where and combinations that look good together, just give me a call or text me, Colin Knapman, on 07925 166 767.
Dungeness Lighthouse
By Keith Morton | Association of Lighthouse Keepers | alkhurst@gmail.com
Continuing further south from South Foreland on our tour of lighthouses in England and Wales, we soon arrive at Dungeness where, in fact, there has been a total of six lighthouses built. Dungeness is a peninsula and is the southernmost part of Kent, which mariners have to navigate around when traversing the Dover Straits on their way to London.
The peninsula is essentially a flat area made up of shingle and, due to the local currents, the sea continues to wash up more shingle each year, which causes the peninsula to increase in size. The consequence is that, once a lighthouse is built, it is soon well clear of the water’s edge. Hence the then-solution of building yet another lighthouse much nearer to the high-water mark.
This article covers the first three lighthouses; the current operational lighthouse and other lights will be the subject of the next issue of this magazine.
The need for a lighthouse at Dungeness was
first mentioned in 1600 but Trinity House opposed the idea and prevented the King’s Privy Council from building one as well. However, Sir Edward Howard, who held a Court Appointment, pressed for a lighthouse at Dungeness and eventually Trinity House withdrew their opposition. A patent was then issued by King James I in 1615.
The first tower was 35ft high and constructed of wood, topped with an open fire. The patent also affirmed that a levy of one penny per ton could be collected from all passing ships for the next 40 years. The collection of such a levy was very difficult to implement, so Sir Edward passed over his rights to William Lamplough of the Royal Kitchen, who was able to enlist the assistance of Customs officials to collect the dues at ports. This then roused the indignation of ship owners who considered the dues to be only voluntary and eagerly joined forces with Trinity House to suppress the lighthouse as a ‘nuisance to navigation’, on the basis of its poor light. The original fire was then replaced by candles. There was more opposition from a townsman in Rye, but his bill was unsuccessful.
By 1635, the sea had receded by a considerable distance, so the wooden tower was dismantled, and a new tower was built, much nearer to the water’s edge. This tower – the second – was built of brick and was 110ft high with a coal fire atop. The coal fire continued to light the tower until 1746, but by then, the sea had receded even further, meaning the light was now giving misleading information to mariners.
In 1792, Samuel Wyatt built a third lighthouse, 116ft high using the same design as that of the Eddystone lighthouse. But more on that next time.
Dungeness Lighthouse
Icelandic visitors
By Tom (CHOG)
During the winter, Christchurch Harbour has welcomed an important population of wading birds to feed within the muddy tidal areas. Around 2,500 of the Icelandic breeding subspecies of Black-tailed Godwit were seen in the harbour during February, which is an increase on the 2,300 that were seen in December 2024. To put some context to this, although estimates vary, it is thought the world population is in the region of 50,000 birds; therefore, the harbour has been hosting approximately five per cent of the species’ global population!
Once they have bred in Iceland, the Godwits migrate south to the UK to escape the harsh Nordic weather. Below, the spectacular scene of them flying together over the water was captured from Stanpit by Tim Burdock during January. With the beach huts on Mudeford Sandspit and the Isle of Wight in the background, it is great to see how the boundaries between humans and wildlife overlap.
Recording the numbers of birds within the harbour and the adjacent areas is one of the objectives of Christchurch Harbour Ornithological Group, known as CHOG, and these observations help to inform local conservation activities and projects. In recent years, conservation projects have included protecting the breeding Ringed Plovers on the Sandspit, opening the Nursery
Hut bird hide at Hengistbury Head, and working with local residents to help Swifts. There is now a dedicated CHOG Swifts page on www.chog.org.uk, which provides information on Swift hotspots and what you can do to support Swifts in your area.
During spring migration, Swifts are one of the last species to arrive on our shores. During April and May, other key birds to watch out for are returning Cuckoos, Hobbies and Terns. These birds will be heading north to raise the next generation of their species here. Hopefully there will also be a rarer migrant or two that generates a bit of excitement!
CHOG is an independent organisation and registered charity, which is dedicated to recording, promoting and conserving the wildlife of the Christchurch Harbour area. To find out more about CHOG, please scan the QR Code or visit www.chog.org.uk for the latest daily sightings, details of the migrant birds that have already arrived this spring, and dates for this year’s meetings, including social ‘Birding and Coffee’ walks on Hengistbury Head.
Black-tailed Godwits © Tim Burdock
Swift hotspot map courtesy of CHOG
Puzzle solutions
April winds, May showers …
By Tricia Hayne
After a winter of cold and rain and cold and rain and cold and… Hurst Castle re-opened for the season on Tuesday, 1 April — April Fool’s Day. Perhaps we should say it loud enough to scare off any would-be pranksters. Just think of the mayhem that could be caused by castle ghosts, headed up by King Charles I himself.
Back to the 21st century, volunteers from the Friends of Hurst Castle have been up there every Monday throughout March, helping to make the castle spick and span. And when visitors return, every moment is a trip back into history.
Step inside the guard room and discover more about the building’s role during Victorian times and through both World Wars. Take in the enormity of the massive guns, or the powerful Bofors gun, lovingly restored by members of the Friends.
Wander further back in time as you cross the stone slabs into the Henry VIII keep, following in the footsteps of Charles I, who was imprisoned here in 1648.
Or climb up onto the roof and – like the soldiers who manned the castle for more than 400 years – look across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. Modern-day visitors may be interested in the birds or simply the view; their predecessors were on watch for enemy shipping.
For families, more recent history will come alive throughout April and May with a trail to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day in June. Dogs are welcome. And there’s a cafe with a view. All the components are there for a great day out!
The Friends of Hurst Castle help to support the castle, which is owned by English Heritage. Our members are involved with everything from upkeep and displays to guided tours, litter picks and historical research.
Why not join us? Members receive a regular newsletter, can take part in events such as our annual fish ’n’ chip cruise, and are entitled to free entry to the castle.
To find out more, please contact membership secretary Tricia Hayne on trjhayne@gmail.com.
Entrance to the Henry VIII Keep © Tricia Hayne
Looking across to the Isle of Wight © Tricia Hayne
Newly restored Bofors gun © Tricia Hayne
Daring activities to help Dorset families
By Jannine Loveys, fundraising manager at DCCF
Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to stand on top of a moving plane or abseil down a tall building? The Dorset Cancer Care Foundation offers a range of ways for you to enjoy thrilling experiences such as these, all while supporting Dorset families with cancer.
Daredevils wanted
Our fundraisers will be descending 100m from the iconic Spinnaker Tower in Portsmouth on Saturday 28 June.
The abseil starts at 10am, is open to people of all ages and doesn’t require any training or special skills.
You can do it with friends and family or alone, and you’ll be rewarded by stunning views across Portsmouth Harbour – as well as a huge sense of accomplishment.
We are asking our abseilers to pay a deposit of £30 and raise a minimum of £150 in sponsorship.
For more information and to secure your spot, please email hello@dccf.co.uk.
Join a thrilling Wing Walk
What could be more exhilarating than soaring above the countryside atop the wings of a biplane?
This magazine’s daredevil Lead Designer Louis Pulford has already expressed an interest in wing walking for the DCCF. Will you join him?
Our wing walkers will be asked to pay a £100 deposit and raise a minimum of £750 in sponsorship. For more details, please email charitymanager@dccf.co.uk.
You don’t have to take part in a daring activity to help Dorset families with cancer.
You can donate, volunteer, fundraise, or even attend one of our fantastic coffee mornings or other fundraising events.
For more details, visit dccf.co.uk.
© The Wing Walk Company
Can you brave the heights? © Spinnaker Tower
RNLI Mudeford Fundraising Crew Newsletter
Friends of Mudeford Fundraising Crew
Have you ever thought about supporting or fundraising for the RNLI, but are worried about whether you have the time to commit? We have a number of friends who, for various reasons, are unable to participate on a regular basis but are happy to volunteer if and when they can. If this sounds like you, then perhaps you might be interested in joining our new ‘Friends of Mudeford Fundraising Crew’ group. No commitment is needed but you would receive our monthly newsletter that has details of what we get up to, along with our yearly programme of events. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact Adele at adele.orr.63@gmail.com.
Dates for the diary
Thursday 15 May 10am–12noon
Coffee and Cake Morning
Stanpit Village Hall
Sunday 25 May
Blue Light Day & Lifeboat Station Open Day
Mudeford Quay Green
Saturday 28 June 7pm
Sea Shanties
Haven House Inn, Mudeford Quay
Join us
For more information on our events or monthly meetings, please contact Adele at adele.orr.63@gmail.com. We are always pleased to welcome new volunteers for our fundraising team. We meet at 2.15pm on the first Wednesday of the month at Stanpit Village Hall.
Sue and Pam with their RNLI buckets on a cold but sunny morning outside the Noisy Lobster © Jean Mason
Fiction
Della Galton is the bestselling author of romantic comedies set around Dorset, Wiltshire and the New Forest, published by Boldwood Books. Here is the opening of her latest novel about Jade and Finn at Duck Pond Rescue. There’s never a dull moment, but will they get their ‘happy ever after’ too?
Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage
by Della Galton
Where was the best place to make one of the most important phone calls of your life? Finn McTaggart shielded his eyes against the flaming June sunshine as he scanned the smallholding, which was comprised of a scattering of stone outbuildings encircled by fields in the middle of the Wiltshire countryside. The mobile signal was notoriously bad at Duck Pond Rescue. The animal sanctuary was both home and his place of work, but it was better outside than indoors, and the higher up you were, the stronger it got.
The landline in reception was the obvious place. But reception was the home of Mr Spock, a very talkative parrot who was prone to yelling out swear words or mimicking fire alarms if the mood took him. Finn definitely couldn’t risk Mr Spock yelling obscenities in the background. Ideally, he’d have driven up to the village. There was plenty of signal up there, but Jade Foster, who was both his fiancée and the founder and owner of Duck Pond Rescue, was out on an urgent rescue mission. He’d promised to stay on site until she got back.
This call couldn’t wait any longer though. He’d have to use his mobile. Holding it up in front of him so he could see when one bar changed to two, he strolled around the yard. The field nearest the road where the ex-battery hens roamed was a possibility.
Sighing, he climbed over the five-bar gate. The sun felt hot on his face and his fingers were slippery on the cool metal bars, but he knew it wasn’t just heat. It was excitement, anticipation and plain old terror that were making his hands sweat and his heart beat out of his chest.
He’d felt like this since Eleanor Smythe, owner of Artline, a top London agency, had contacted him. “I’d like to talk to you about an art exhibition that’s happening in Salisbury,” had been her opening line, and Finn had been so stunned that all he’d been able to stammer in reply was, “Is this a wind-up?”
“It is not a wind-up, Mr McTaggart. I’ve seen some of your work. I’m interested in seeing more. I don’t have time to discuss this now. I’ll call you on Monday.”
Yesterday had been Monday. Despite the fact he’d carried his phone everywhere with the volume turned up full, she hadn’t called.
Then this morning, he’d had a voicemail, saying she hadn’t been able to reach him and maybe he’d do her the courtesy of returning the call within the hour if that wasn’t too much trouble. There had been a distinct tone of “This is your last chance, my patience is running out” on the voicemail, which had come in just after Jade had left.
Finn walked swiftly towards the coops at the top of the hen field. The signal flickered up to two bars. Bingo. He sat on the flat roof part of the coop with his feet swinging about a foot from the ground. It was an oasis of peace up here. Nothing but the fresh summer breeze rustling through the trees, the distant sound of a tractor and the soft clucking of a few curious hens.
He took a deep breath, plugged in his wired headset, which was better at blocking out external noise than his wireless earbuds, and dialled the number. It rang and rang. Finn had just started to wonder if he was too late when a brusque voice answered.
“Eleanor Smythe.”
“It’s Finn. Er, Finn McTaggart. I’m just returning your call.”
“Ah, yes. Finn.” Her voice changed from brusque to honeyed sweetness. “I was just thinking about you. I’m glad we’ve finally connected. I’d like to arrange a meet, but if we could just exchange a few details. Is now a good time?”
“It’s a great time. Thank you.” His heart thudded against his ribcage. She’d been thinking about him. The top agent in London. It was unbelievable. It was a dream come true – no, it was beyond his wildest dreams. If someone had told him a year ago that he’d be talking to Eleanor Smythe about his work, he’d never have believed them. He still suffered from imposter syndrome
when anyone told him he was good.
“We’ll start with some background information if we may.”
Finn realised a brown hen had fluttered up onto the roof to join him. She put her head on one side and studied him with round beady eyes. A couple of her mates were heading over too, running purposefully across the grass. Humans meant food to Jade’s flock of ex-battery hens. They were all so tame they ran to greet her when they saw her, knowing she was the bearer of tasty treats. They weren’t usually so tame around him.
“First of all,” Eleanor Smythe was saying, “maybe you could tell me if…”
Finn felt a violent tug at his ears and everything went silent. “What the…?”
He was so shocked he swore loudly, not sure for a moment what had happened.
It took a few seconds to compute. The brown hen who’d been sitting beside him was now racing across the field, her wings flapping for extra speed, with his headset dangling from her beak. His mobile, still attached, was bouncing across the long grass in her wake. Finn leaped off the hen house and set off in hot pursuit. But the hen had the advantage of wings and she wasn’t stopping. Several other hens had joined in the chase. They were clearly of the opinion their mate had something worth stealing.
Spaghetti, Finn realised in horror. Jade gave them spaghetti as a treat and they loved it. The hen must have mistaken his white headset for a piece of dangling pale spaghetti, her very favourite food, and there was no way on earth she was giving up her prize.
‘Summer Secrets at Duck Pond Cottage’ is available now in paperback, ebook and audiobook format.
© Della Galton
This is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.
(01202) 499199 www.theregent.co.uk
LIVE ON STAGE
HELLO AGAIN: THE NEIL DIAMOND SONGBOOK | Fri 9 May: 19:30
Join us for the world’s greatest celebration of the life and work of one of the best-selling singer-songwriters of all time, Neil Diamond.
BEYOND THE BARRICADE | Sat 10 May: 19:30
Join the cast for two hours of the best of Broadway and the West End, featuring the songs that have made audiences return over and over again for more than 25 years.
SPIRIT OF THE BLITZ: VE DAY 80TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL
Mon 12 May: 14:00
We delve into the 1940s songbook for a tribute to the legendary stars who kept us smiling through our darkest days. Spirit of the Blitz recaptures the tenacious optimism of war-torn Britain.
RAVE ON: THE ULTIMATE 50S & 60S EXPERIENCE | Fri 16 May: 19:30
From the emergence of Rock and Roll at Sun Records in Memphis, Tennessee to the British Invasion and beyond, this is a musical adventure you won’t want to miss.
THE CLARE TEAL FIVE | Sat 24 May: 19:30
Expect exhilarating swing from award-winning jazz vocalist and long-time Radio 2 & Jazz FM broadcaster Clare Teal, who returns with a fabulous new show.
BMT PRESENTS: SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN | 28 – 31 May
Get ready to be swept off your feet by the timeless charm and dazzling spectacle of “Singin’ in the Rain,” the beloved musical that has captivated audiences for generations!
EVENT CINEMA
(Standard cinema showings published weekly)
BONNIE & CLYDE THE MUSICAL | Sun 11 May: 14:00
This award-winning production re-tells the unbelievable true story of America’s most infamous couple, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow.
EXHIBITION ON SCREEN – MICHELANGELO: LOVE & DEATH (PG)
Tue 20 May: 19:30
Through expert commentary, stunning visuals and Michelangelo’s own words, this film takes a fresh look at a master artist whose life and genius are celebrated in every mark he made.
To see our upcoming film titles, please visit our website www.theregent.co.uk or pick up a film list in-person on your next visit.
All information is correct at the time of publication. Please see our website for the latest information www.theregent.co.uk
Introducing
Your Voice | Dorset Podcast
Listen to our brand-new
The publisher of this magazine, Pulford Publicity, has launched a brand-new podcast. Your Voice | Dorset Podcast will share stories from the people of Dorset and learn how they help their communities and make life in the county so special. New episodes will be released monthly.
The first episode, released in February, features local music legend Matt Black sharing his story with Dorset View’s Marilyn Barber. In the podcast, Black talks about his life and career as the ‘Piano Man’, his love of performing, and his experience of alcoholism.
Episode 2 features Hannah Hobbs-Chell and Tony Brown from Ferndown Community Support, who discussed the challenges of running a food bank and larder to help the people of Ferndown.
Your Voice | Dorset Podcast is produced by this magazine’s Lead Designer Louis Pulford. Here, Louis shares some behind-the-scenes information about the podcast.
podcast!
What is the podcast all about?
The podcast is purely about the people of Dorset. My philosophy is that the people of Dorset are a vibrant, diverse, fascinating and interesting bunch of folks. Like most places you visit the world over, people can be awesome and inspiring! There are so many good people out there in this county, and I personally just want to hear their stories and share them with the people of Dorset.
Where did the inspiration for the podcast come from?
From the people themselves: the individuals who drive Dorset forward and make it a beautiful place to live. The podcast is my way of saying thank you to the community.
Can you give us a teaser about future episodes of the podcast?
We have musicians, artists, charities, businesses, sports people and more – a broad
spectrum of backgrounds. They’re coming on to share anecdotes on their experiences of Dorset, telling us about their history and talking about their views. Other episodes feature the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation, which supports young people across Dorset and Wiltshire, and local musician Polly Morris who even plays a song for us.
Where can readers find the podcast?
Our readers – who we hope will become regular listeners – can find episodes on our website dorsetview. co.uk, our YouTube channel @YourVoiceDorset, or on podcasting platforms such as Spotify, Amazon, and Apple.
If you’d like to share your story, why not reach out to us? Send an email to podcast@dorsetview.co.uk.
Ferndown Community Support’s Tony and Hannah with Luke in the studio
CHRISTCHURCH u3a
By Paula Watton
April is when we start holding a stall at Christchurch Monday Market in the High Street and Saxon Square. Of course, running that stall depends on volunteers, so if you can spare a morning or just a few hours, please pop into the Epicentre where Elaine holds the volunteer list — your help will be gratefully received.
We’re encouraging as many new people to start new groups as we can — the more leaders we have, the more interesting and varied opportunities we can offer.
Please don’t be shy or nervous about coming forward with your ideas, as you will get a lot of help in setting up and running a new group.
MONTHLY MEETING
12 May 2025, 2pm
Christchurch Baptist Church, Beaconsfield Rd, Bargates, Christchurch, BH23 1QT
Topic: ‘Around the World in 60 minutes’ by Alan Poulton. Alan will play music from as many countries as can be squeezed into 60 minutes and provide commentary on the piece of music itself, its history and musical context. He welcomes suggestions from the audience as to which countries to include.
Christchurch u3a | The Epicentre, 27a High Street, Christchurch 01202 480027 | Group co-ordinator information: groups@christchurchu3a.org.uk
News from All Saints
By Vikki Miller
Good news: we are delighted to welcome Revd Wendy Cooper as our new associate priest to work with Revd Kathy in serving the communities of Mudeford, Somerford and Burton. Among other roles, Wendy has worked with the Minstead Trust and as associate priest in the Salisbury Diocese.
Good news: although there are still no bricks on the ground, progress continues to be made with the rebuilding of our church. We expect to appoint a builder in April and work to start a month or so later.
Good news: the fundraising team have been working hard both to raise funds and increase awareness of the project locally. We held a very enjoyable Burns Night Dinner on 25 January, which also proved to be a good fundraiser. On 5 February, a cheese and wine gathering at The Harbour Hotel was attended by local business owners and dignities to learn more about the plans for the rebuild. You may have seen the reports and interviews on Meridian or South Today.
Good news: future events include a Quiz Night, ‘Around the World in 80 questions’, which will take place on 10 May at Highcliffe Sailing Club. Tickets will be available from Sally Clifford. at sallou1461@ gmail.com or 07821447278. Other events are being planned,
so do keep an eye on the noticeboard outside the church.
The greatest good news: Did you know that the word gospel means ‘good news’? The gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John each tell us about Jesus who preached, healed, performed miracles and claimed to be the Son of God. He was without sin yet died an agonising death on a cross to enable us to be reconciled to God. This is the ultimate good news and is the reason for celebrating Easter.
On Maundy Thursday (17 April this year) we remember the Last Supper Jesus shared with his disciples by sharing a simple meal ourselves. On Good Friday, we join together for a walk of witness around Mudeford, pausing to stop for readings from the gospels to remind us of what happened on the day Jesus died. Easter Sunday is a day of joy as we celebrate the Resurrection. Some of us meet at the beach for an early morning service and then there is a joyful communion service at Stanpit Village Hall at 10am. For more information about our events, see the notice board outside the church, on Facebook and on allsaintsmudeford.org.
Advance notice: The Mudeford Arts Festival is on the last weekend of July.
Every Blessing
Vikki Miller
Church contact: Maggie Raine 01425 616652
Wendy and Kathy
Bon appetit! Christchurch chef to sponsor food festival
Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival, which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, has announced that Christchurchbased restaurateur (and this magazine’s recipe writer) Colin Nash will be the festival’s headline sponsor for 2025.
The annual festival, which features street food, cookery demonstrations, arts and crafts and market stalls, will take place on Saturday 14 and 15 June.
The Colin Nash Restaurant is located at The Retreat on Lyndhurst Road and is
part of the Hinton Admiral Estate. Nash exclusively sources seasonal and locally procured produce, including Mudeford-caught fish.
He said: “I have been working with the founder Mary Reader and the team for 10 years at Highcliffe Food and Arts Festival, and I have always appreciated seeing the local produce showcased at the event and have loved seeing the local community coming together. It is an honour to be able to support the festival and raise the profile of our
beautiful restaurant.”
Tina Jaffray, chair of the festival, said: “Colin’s ethos perfectly matches the theme that runs throughout our family-oriented festival, with the majority of our stall holders offering locally produced food and quality artisan products. We are thrilled to be working with Colin and are so grateful for his support.”
For more information, visit highcliffefoodandartsfestival. co.uk.
Colin Nash
Christchurch trust makes huge donation
The Treehouse in Hurn, which is run by Dorset’s disability charity Diverse Abilities, has received a donation of £11,574 from The Christchurch Magdalen Trust.
The trust helps Christchurch residents in need or suffering hardship as a result of illness or infirmity. Its donation will go towards funding the short breaks service delivered at The Treehouse, formerly Adventure Wonderland, which supports children and families with sessions during the school holidays, weekends and evenings, as well as drop-in sessions during the week for young children and those who are home schooled.
The money will allow the charity to provide 100 four-hour play sessions to families living in Christchurch during the school holidays.
The sessions are a lifeline to these families, who may otherwise feel isolated, exhausted and alone as they navigate bringing up a child with disabilities. Sessions are provided for families to attend together and take part in activities that they may be unable to do elsewhere due to lack of accessibility, fear of judgement or just needing an extra pair of hands.
There are also sessions for the children to attend alone with support from the charity’s Short Break Crew, giving the child independence and parents the knowledge that they are being well looked after. Sessions are also provided for siblings and parents to ensure that the whole family is supported.
Find out more at diverseabilities.org.uk/ thetreehouse.
Christchurch Magdalen Trust’s Alastair Hoare and Andrew Barfield, left, present the cheque to Diverse Abilities’ Clare Rochford and Luke Hawker
VETS FROM PRIORY VET GROUP INSPIRING PUPILS IN LOCAL SCHOOLS
By Priory Vets
Vets can play a crucial role in local communities, not only by caring for animals but also by educating future generations. Many of the vets at Priory grew up locally and retain their ties to the area.
Alexa Edington was born and educated in Poole and went to Surrey Vet School before returning to her hometown and joining Priory in 2021. In March, she was thrilled and honoured to be asked back to her Sixth Form to present prizes and talk at Speech Day. She used her speech to inspire pupils and share valuable knowledge about animal care, science, and career opportunities in veterinary medicine.
Other vets engage pupils with interactive presentations, demonstrations, and real-life stories from their work. Marcus Willcock returned to his old school in Bournemouth in February to talk to pupils with an interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics subjects. Veterinary medicine involves biology, chemistry, and problem-solving, making it an excellent way to connect classroom learning with real-world applications. Pupils gained insight into how vets diagnose illnesses, perform surgeries, and ensure the well-being of animals, from household pets to livestock and wildlife.
Meanwhile, Emma Newton and Rebecca Alborough have both visited local schools in Bournemouth and Christchurch to speak with individual students about career pathways and their lives as veterinary surgeons.
At Priory Vets, we also try and accommodate as many students as possible for work experience once they are on a science pathway at A Level. We are currently supporting a brilliant A Level student who has an offer to start vet school in September, and we are exceedingly proud of Isabella who joined us as a Saturday girl and is now in her second year at vet school.
By connecting with schools, vets not only educate but also inspire the next generation of animal carers, scientists, and veterinary professionals. Priory’s visits strengthen our ties with our local community, engaging with young pet owners
and aspiring veterinary professionals. The visits can also help pupils understand the importance of caring for animals and the environment.
01202 484466 | office@prioryvetgroup.com www.prioryvetgroup.com Priory Vet Group, 59 Purewell, Christchurch, Dorset BH23 1EN
Clockwise from top left: Vets Rebecca, Alexa, Emma and Marcus
Great news for water sports fans
Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre has a new lease of life following the recent completion of a 99-year lease with BCP Council. Negotiated by the community group Hengistbury Head Outdoors (HHO), this lease effectively transfers the ownership of the centre to the local community via a formal Community Asset Transfer from the council. It is believed that this may be the first asset transfer of an activity centre to a ‘community benefit society’ completed by BCP Council.
For decades, Hengistbury Head Outdoor Education Centre has been the place for water sports. But the centre was closed during the pandemic and has not fully reopened since March 2020, as the main building was deemed unsafe for public use by BCP Council.
The society, HHO, was set up in late 2023 to take over and rejuvenate the centre, in order to create a sustainable space for all members of the community to participate in outdoor activities.
As well as securing the lease, HHO has reached an agreement in principle for a grant from the Community Ownership fund of nearly £700,000 from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (DCLG) to refurbish and repair the centre.
This grant is subject to certain conditions being met and HHO will need to raise around £150,000. HHO is actively seeking donations from the community, local business and grant providers to raise these funds.
The centre has a long history. In 1964, the Marine Training Centre (MTC) was opened at Hengistbury Head, and in the 1980s the name was changed to Hengistbury
Head Outdoor Education Centre.
In its last full year of operation, 2019, around 75 schools used the centre, which handled over 10,000 school sessions and more than 5,000 public sessions (adults and young people).
In 2021 (post COVID), BCP took back direct ownership of the centre and following a survey, the main building was deemed unsafe for public use. It has not been open since March 2020.
HHO and its team of volunteers now aim to start the refurbishment works as soon as possible. They have developed phased plans covering the waterfront, the grounds and the key facilities required for the safe reopening of the centre to the local community.
The Outdoor Activity Centre is already utilised by several community groups, who will now have long-term use of the centre, and the ambition is to widen the use of the centre to involve as much of the local community as possible.
To find out more about the centre, visit hengistbury.org.
Directors of HHO receiving keys to the centre from members of the council
Christchurch Cheese & Chilli Festival
A taste sensation is coming to Christchurch this May, as the Cheese & Chilli Festival will be held on 17 and 18 May.
Whether you’re a fan of spicy hot jalapenos or milder cheddar cheese, this annual festival is an unmissable experience.
2025 marks the festival’s 11th year, and it promises to be a vibrant celebration filled with incredible flavours, colours and experiences.
As well as sampling delicious food in the taste tent and at the market stalls, there’s plenty more to see and do at the festival:
• Watch the thrilling action in the ring as the wrestling returns for another round of jawdropping battles.
• Catch Chilli Olly and Chilli Dave in the cooking theatre alongside other guest speakers, providing cooking demos and insightful talks throughout the day.
• Put your tastebuds to the test. There will be a chilli eating competition each day at 4pm, and a man vs food challenge where contestants must try to eat an entire plate of super-hot food in 30 minutes or less.
Plus, there will be plenty of children’s entertainment, including magic shows, Punch & Judy, Shetland ponies, a fun fair and much, much more.
Early bird tickets cost as little as £9 for a day ticket plus booking fee, and children under 16 go free. To book your tickets and find out everything else that the festival has to offer, visit the website: cheeseandchillifestival.com/Christchurch.
Catch Angel the wrestler in the ring
