Viewpoint January 2020

Established Over 35 Years Mid January 2020

Your Independent Local Magazine

VIEWPOINT

Volume 44, Issue 3

VERWOOD RINGWOOD FORDINGBRIDGE WEST MOORS WIMBORNE FERNDOWN ASHLEY HEATH ST IVES, ALDERHOLT

Opposition to Blashford development continues

By Marilyn Barber Environmental issues continue to be a concern for local people and organisations following the submission more than a year ago of an application to demolish outbuildings on land off Snails Lane, Blashford and for the erection of 143 homes. Of these 50 per cent would be affordable housing. Public open space would also be provided. Continued on page 15.

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE : • THE OLD BEAM S, IBSLEY REVIEWE D • KVG PLAY PARK REFURB UNDERW AY • CHARITY OF TH E YEAR: MS COMM UNITY HUB • COMPETITION : TICKETS TO SEE CO MEDIAN ED BYRNE

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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VIEWPOINT

Volume 44 • Issue 3 • January 2020

Dear Readers!

Picture of the month

MAGS4DORSET Ben Pulford managing director ben@mags4dorset.co.uk

I haven’t worn out the stair carpet yet, but if we get many more days of dawn to dusk rain there is a danger that I will.

Yes, you’ve guessed it. Father Christmas gave me a fitness watch so I can count my daily steps.

Having revealed my age, weight and height to the computer programme, I discovered I was expected to walk 14,000 steps a day.

I thought 10,000 was the optimum, but I haven’t dared to query the extra 4,000 in case I was punished and my target was raised to 15,000.

Now, after my shower, my first job of the day is not, as before, to check the Weather in Wimborne app on my phone, but to put on my new watch as I don’t want it to miss registering the steps involved in getting ready for the day.

With only 1,738 steps having been registered by 2pm on the first day of the New Year, watching a film on TV that afternoon wasn’t an option. Despite the fact that it was drizzling I set off on a walk, and barely saw a soul, as presumably most people were taking advantage of the bank holiday to enjoy another day of relaxation in their warm homes.

I trekked - no perhaps that is an exaggeration, but it felt like it after a few days of inactivity - up and down hills to Colehill and then back into the town of Wimborne. Surely I must have racked up thousands of steps. But no, my watch only registered 10,025 and by the end of the day just 11,397.

Clearly I am going to have to up my game.

I’m now wondering how many steps I would clock up if I walked from my home in Wimborne to the office in Ferndown. Perhaps not.

A happy and healthy New Year to our readers.

Marilyn Barber News editor

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

NEWS DESK 01202 941469 Janine Pulford editor editorial@mags4dorset.co.uk Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk

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01202 233441

louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Matt Jaquest graphic designer Lee Roy Cooper social media assistant

ADVERTISING 01202 816140 Mark Beechey account manager DD: 01202 941465 mark@mags4dorset.co.uk

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LOGISTICS

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

I’m a little hoarse this winter ©Louis Pulford

Louis Pulford creative director

Ian Lory Alexandra O’Neill

How to contact us

Enquiries: 01202 870270 Advertising: 01202 816140 Brightbox Designs: 01202 233441 Email: mags@mags4dorset.co.uk Web: www.mags4dorset.co.uk Twitter: @mags4dorset Facebook: mags4dorset.news Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ

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31 JANUARY 2020

VIEWPOINT is independently published and distributed free to homes and businesses in selected areas of Dorset and Hampshire. It is also available by subscription at £40 per year. Views or opinions expressed in VIEWPOINT are not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement deemed to be unsuitable for publication. Information about a service does not imply recommendation. All purchases made through this publication are done so entirely at your own risk. The copyright on all written material, logos and advertising artwork produced by our studio remains with VIEWPOINT and should not be reproduced without prior written permission from the publisher. The company’s privacy policy can be read at www.mags4dorset.co.uk

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Post it Note

By Julian Hewitt, Fordingbridge Museum

How many letters do you write each year?

When I was young, it was the main way of communicating with absent friends and family as well as for business purposes. At this time of year, parents would insist on their offspring writing thank you letters to everyone who had sent them a Christmas present.

With wider ownership of telephones, letter writing declined but it was computers and emails that sounded the death knell of the letter.

Before 1840 when

Rowland Hill introduced adhesive penny postage stamps, it was the recipient of the letter who had to pay the cost of delivery. If you wanted to send a letter you would take it to the nearest receiving office or in larger towns, give it to a uniformed Bell Man who walked the streets ringing a bell and collecting letters. The letter would be distributed by mail coaches or post boys on horseback to the receiving office that was

nearest to the address for which it was destined.

In Fordingbridge the receiving office was the Crown Hotel.

Both Rowland Hill and the author Anthony Trollope, who was a surveyor’s clerk for the post office, had seen the use of roadside post boxes in France and other European countries. The first pillar box in the UK was introduced in the Channel Islands in 1852, followed the next year by one in Carlisle, although there was a post box in the wall of the post office in Wakefield in 1809. An ornate pillar box was designed by Richard Redgrave in 1856 for use in London. These were painted bronze and an example can be seen in the V&A Museum. In 1859 an improved cylindrical version was introduced.

This was similar to the ones we know today with a horizontal aperture to post the letters that was protected from the rain

by a metal hood. These early Victorian Boxes were painted Sage Green but people complained that they were difficult to find.

In the 1870s the standard colour was changed to red with a black base.

Pillar boxes came in different shapes and sizes. In the 1860s the “Penfold” pillar box was hexagonal and some were fluted. In 1857 boxes in walls were introduced as they were cheaper than pillar boxes and in 1896 boxes designed to fix on a lamp post or telegraph post started to appear.

The very early boxes had no royal cypher and were consequently called “anonymous” boxes but after 1887 all boxes had the cypher. Ludlow boxes, introduced in 1885, were designed to go in the walls of sub post offices and could be emptied from the inside of the office.

There are several arguments for reviving the art of letter writing. Letters require no costly special

device to produce and are more difficult to falsify so are more secure than an email. They cannot be used for the transmission of malware. Individual handwriting makes the communication more personal and encourages spelling and handwriting skills. Small objects can be easily enclosed with the letter. For me however, the most important thing is that letters can be used for historical research.

Most biographies rely heavily on material from letters and it is difficult to see how emails would be used by biographers and historians.

Fordingbridge Museum has a good example of a lamppost box from Sandleheath. It looks magnificent in its pillar box red paint and as can be seen from the cypher it dates from Victorian times. Do call in and see it when the museum reopens in April. In the meantime don’t forget those thank you letters.

Lamppost box at Fordingbridge museum

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How deep are your pockets?

News in brief

Dorset Police & Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill is asking members of the public to pay the equivalent of an extra £1.25 per month to enable the Force to recruit 50 new officers – and you can put forward your views on this.

The proposed increase to the precept, the element of a monthly council tax bill that funds policing, will also allow for inflation and will enable Dorset Police to deliver a balanced budget in the face of additional costs.

The figure – based on a Band D property – remains subject to funding announcements from central government, delayed as a result of the General Election.

Mr Underhill said, “While of course I welcome

Boardwalk replacement – Ringwood’s Pocket

recent announcements of extra police officers, I need to make sure the Force can pay for them in the long term and that has also been taken into consideration.”

The Commissioner continued, “Dorset Police is faced with the additional costs of nationally agreed salary increases and pension liabilities, as well as new training and recruitment requirements, all of which means that simply providing the current service will cost millions more than it did last year.

“In order that the Force can not only maintain that service, but also enhance it with new officers, additional funding is required and I fear this will not come from central government

when the settlements are announced.

“I know many families in Dorset are struggling, and I remain immensely frustrated that the financial burden for policing appears to be getting passed to local taxpayers once again. I will continue to demand a fairer settlement for Dorset Police, which remains one of the lowest funded forces in the country.

“Meanwhile, I will work with the Chief Constable to ensure the Force continues to relentlessly pursue efficiency savings as it has done over the past nine years.”

Park boardwalk is to be replaced at a cost of £3,112 to Ringwood Town Council.

Care Home plan – Dorset Council has received an application for a 64-bed care home on land south of Leigh Road, Wimborne. This would replace the application for a retail unit for which permission had been granted.

Readers have until 3 February to make a comment on the application.

Backland development ­– New Forest District Council has received an application for the erection of a bungalow on the land of 8 and 10 Waverley Road, Fordingbridge.

Replacement home ­– New Forest District Council has received an application to demolish Lake House in Woolmer Lane, Blashford, Ringwood, and to erect a new threebedroom bungalow.

Council to plant trees – Ringwood Town Council’s policy and finance committee has approved the provision of £400 to purchase a pack of saplings for Poulner Lakes. RACE (Ringwood Actions for Climate Emergency) group will fund the shortfall.

Visit www. dorsetpoliceprecept. com to take part in the survey.

Waste recycling centre open for Dorset residents Dorset residents can continue to access the Somerley Household and Waste Recycling Centre at Verwood Road free of charge without needing to register their vehicle.

In November last year Dorset Council reached an agreement with Hampshire County Council to allow Dorset residents continued free access to the Somerley site. This arrangement is in place for the foreseeable future.

This is a turnabout, as at the beginning of last year, Hampshire County Council had said that from 1 January 2020 it would begin to charge non-Hampshire residents £5 each time they visited the Somerley tip.

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Ferndown play park will have new look “Outdoor play is vital for children’s development,” Mayor of Ferndown Julie Robinson As part of the £1.2M project to improve the King George V recreational facilities in Ferndown, the muchloved play park will receive a facelift.

In December, the town council appointed HAGS as the contractor to carry out the refurbishment.

Chairman of the KGV management committee, Cllr Mrs Julie Robinson, said, “The KGV trustees are very excited about the much-needed upgrade to this play park. Outdoor play is vital for children’s development and it is important the community has access to exciting and challenging play areas. I am pleased that the new play area will meet the needs of our young people and will certainly be used and enjoyed by generations to come.”

Cllr Mike Parkes, the chairman of the project

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group overseeing the project added, “The project group was very impressed with the design put forward by HAGS. It has a fantastic selection of equipment, which is suitable for a wide range of children with ranging abilities. In developing the plans, the town council asked local schoolchildren what they would like to see in the park and the ideas and views from this have been incorporated into the final design.”

VIEWPOINT January 2020

The KGV play park will include equipment for children up to 12-yearsold with zoning for toddlers and juniors. The new equipment includes inclusive swings and roundabouts, slides, play panels, two climbing frames for toddlers and juniors, a net pyramid plus many more exciting pieces of equipment.

The facility is now closed. It is anticipated that the park will be ready to enjoy before Easter 2020.

Rough sleeping in Dorset falls sharply The number of people sleeping rough in Dorset has halved according to latest figures, which showed that in December there were 18 people rough sleeping in the county, compared to 38 last year.

Dorset Council works with people who are found sleeping on the street, through its Rough Sleeper Outreach Service, provided by homeless charity Julian House.

The council is again bidding for government funding after successfully securing £250,000 last year from the government’s Rough Sleeping Initiative Funding and Rapid Rehousing Pathways Programme.

This funded the ‘Navigator Scheme’ which guides rough sleepers through the support available and helps them secure accommodation.

The money has also been used to expand a supported lettings

scheme, which helps rough sleepers secure tenancies.

Dorset Council also runs a ‘Housing First’ Programme which offers permanent, affordable housing to people who have been homeless multiple times and have not succeeded with traditional support. The service supports 11 individuals across Dorset, helping them access health and community services, which reduces their risk of becoming homeless again.

During cold weather extra support is provided for rough sleepers.

Dorset Council’s Severe Weather Emergency Protocol takes people off the streets and provides them with temporary accommodation.

People can report concerns about rough sleeping at streetlink.org. uk. If you have immediate concerns for someone’s safety please ring 999.

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MAGS4DORSET Charity of the Year In 2013 our Charity of the Year was the MS Society Bournemouth and District Branch. We recently discovered that in 2020 this organisation, which provides a vital community service for those with multiple sclerosis, will become an independent local charity, and will no longer be part of the national MS Society. In light of this big step for those at the Osborne Centre, we asked if they would like to be our Charity of the Year so that readers could learn more about the changes that are due to take place during 2020.

Janine Pulford, Editor

MS Community Hub Thank you so much for choosing ‘Bournemouth and District MS Community Hub’ as your Mags4Dorset charity of the year 2020 .

Our Hub is situated at the Osborne Centre, Church Lane, West Parley where we offer all local people affected by multiple sclerosis (MS) physiotherapy in a fully equipped gym, craft workshops, library, hairdressing salon, support and advice. Bespoke transport is available and three course lunches are provided, prepared and cooked in-house.

We are open Mondays Tuesdays and Thursdays giving our disabled members community involvement and their carers some well-deserved free time.

As we are totally selffunding we constantly rely on donations and benefactors in order to raise funds to pay for our running costs. One way to donate is by bringing us your unwanted Christmas presents, which we could either give as raffle prizes or sell in our in-house shop at the centre.

2020 is going to be a very exciting time for our Hub as, during the year we will become an independent local charity and no longer part of the National MS Society. We plan to have a Launch Day with various events following on during the year which hopefully

Essential transport for those with MS

will bring us much-needed funds and, with the help of Mags4Dorset, we will update you over the next few months as things progress.

The centre is run by volunteers and we are very fortunate to have so many fantastic helpers who give their time every week. However we are always looking for more so if you have a few hours to spare each week we would love to hear from you.

Please contact us for more information on 01202 570300.

Alan Lindsay Bournemouth and District MS Community Hub

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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- Advertisement Feature -

Looking after your future in the present A will is the best way to take care of the ones you love after you die. It’s a way of ensuring that people other than your blood relations can benefit from your estate. That could be your partner if you’re not married to the person you share your life with, and stepchildren as well as children.

Unlike wills, Lasting Powers of Attorneys are used while you’re still alive. There are two types of LPA – one that covers health and welfare and the other covering property and finance.

Trusts on the other hand provide a way of protecting your assets both in the present and the future. They can protect against care costs (in the present) whilst ring fencing your assets for your loved ones (in the future).

At Maplebrook Wills, we believe in the personal touch.

We’ll visit you in person to discuss your circumstances and help you choose the products that are right for you at a price you can afford. We charge a fraction of the cost of a typical high street solicitor and, rest assured, the wills we write are legally binding. Call us today on 01202 283556.

Call for colourful tales of the Forest

Stuckton Iron Works Trail

The New Forest National Park Authority is on the hunt for memories and stories surrounding five new historic trails, including one from Fordingbridge.

The trails have been selected from established rights of way for their abundance of historic features and connection to residential areas.

With the help of volunteers, the NPA analysed historic maps dating back to 1759 to research around 700 current rights of way, in 37 parishes. Some 260 walking surveys were conducted to whittle the contenders down.

Now the routes have been selected, the search is on for more facts, figures and colourful tales relating to their history.

Gareth Owen, NPA archaeologist, said, “The volunteer researchers have, so far, only scratched the surface of what history dwells in these locations.”

The five trails are: 1. Stuckton Iron Works Starts at Fordingbridge cemetery and passes the site of a Bronze Age cemetery before continuing to Stuckton, which was a hub for smugglers in the late 18th Century. Part of this trail is likely to have been used to smuggle contraband.

Stuckton Iron Works, (built in 1790 and closed in 1908), is on this trail.

2. Rockford Common The Moyles Court Oak, one of the oldest trees in the New Forest, can be seen on this trail. The construction of RAF Ibsley made a big impact on this area during the Second World War. 3. Tatchbury Mount Starting on one of the oldest routes – traced back to 1759 – with several landmarks along the way including Hanger Farm, now an arts centre, which is mentioned in the Domesday Book.

4. Carters Lane This takes in St John The Apostle Church, the distinctive Marchwood CE Infant School and the site of the parsonage built for the first vicar of Marchwood, 5. Lepe to Fawley This trail passes Exbury, the Cadland Estate and on to Fawley.

If you’d like to contribute your memories or stories, or help to promote and preserve the trails in the future, contact Gareth on 01590 646652 or Gareth.Owen@newforestnpa.gov.uk.

These trails have been identified by the Historic Routes and Past Pathways project, which is part of the National Lottery Heritage Funded Our Past, Our Future scheme.

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Your ideas needed on climate emergency Do you have a view on how to tackle the climate emergency?

If so, Dorset Council would like to hear from you.

The authority is looking for members of the public to submit ideas on how the council can reduce carbon emissions and protect the county’s plants and wildlife.

Since declaring a Climate and Ecological Emergency, councillors and officers have been working hard behind the scenes to develop ideas for a climate change strategy and action plan.

This Call for Ideas is open to everybody, and each submission will be reviewed by the council’s Task and Finish groups.

The areas that are being looked at are split into five themes: buildings; natural environment; waste and energy; transport; leadership and influence.

Dorset residents are being asked to submit their ideas under one or more of these categories

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via an online form at: www.dorsetcouncil.gov. uk/climate-emergencycall-for-ideas.

There are also questions around barriers to action, benefits, priorities and funding that participants are being asked to answer.

Dorset Council is to hold a Climate and Ecological Inquiry Day in February which will be open to the public.

Every proposed policy and practical action submitted will be passed to the appropriate Task and Finish Group for investigation, each of which is made up of Dorset Council members and officers.

Cllr Peter Wharf, deputy leader and portfolio holder for Corporate Development and Change at Dorset Council, said, “Climate Change is something

VIEWPOINT January 2020

that affects us all, so we wanted to tap into the wealth of knowledge and ideas that Dorset residents may have in how we could tackle this emergency.

“We know that local businesses and local people of all ages have the creativity and ambition to come up with some brilliant solutions for addressing climate change and we want to hear them.

“The online form is easy to complete, and people can submit as many ideas as they like.”

The Call for Ideas is open until 28 February 2020.

The results from the process will be published alongside Dorset Council’s draft climate change strategy and action plan in spring 2020, which will be open to public consultation.

Roof round-up Thanks to excellent coverage in the local media, the Avonway roof funding appeal has got off to a great start. Donations of £1,300 had already been received when the appeal went out, and now the Ancient Order of Foresters has donated £1,500, plus Avonway Bingo Club has promised to hand over £1,000. The crowdfunding site www.crowdfunder. co.uk/we-need-a-newroof-1 currently stands at £105. Sale of roof tiles and donations so far amount to £440.

The centre asked its

users to come up with ways of raising money and Dave Tree of All The Cool Stuff made Avonway his Charity of the Day for his recent Lego event and raised £300.

The members of Theresa Hunt’s Stott Pilates group have raised £200 with a raffle.

To donate £5 for a roofing slate please make cheques payable to F&DCA and send to Avonway Community Centre, 36 Shaftesbury Street, Fordingbridge SP6 1JF, or call into the centre and donate in person.

Report a rural crime If you want to report a rural crime such as hare coursing, machinery theft, livestock theft and largescale, industrial fly-tipping call 0800 783 0137 or visit http://www. ruralcrimereportingline.uk/ .

In 2018 the independent charity Crimestoppers partnered with the NFU Online to create the Rural Crime Reporting Line which is 100% anonymous.

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Putting faith into education

Pupils at Allenbourn Middle School in Wimborne were given a fascinating insight into five different religions - Judaism, Christianity, Humanism, Buddihism and Islam - during a special multi-faith day.

It was organised in partnership with DEED – the centre for global education and learning serving Dorset and Hampshire.

Head of RE, Jane Jackson, said, “I believe it is important to give students the opportunity to put forward deep questions of their own in RE. “This day enabled them to discuss different faiths and beliefs and to see

how these impact upon day-to-day lives and the community as a whole.”

During the day, the Wimborne Academy Trust school held different workshops to explore a diverse range of world faiths and beliefs with their visitors - Lynda Ford-Horne, representing the Jewish faith, Salimata Knight (Buddhism), Rev James Sharp (Christianity), Sister Tama (Islam) and David Warden (Humanism).

Headteacher Cindy Pritchard, said, “You can gain knowledge from text books, the classroom and Google but it is people that help bring learning to life.”

Pupils at Allenbourn Middle School took part in a ‘Many Faiths Living Together’ project

Teenage dancer receives Author Nicholas Jubber coming to Wimborne library legacy award Award-winning travel writer Nicholas Jubber, who spoke at Wimborne Literary Festival last year, is making a return visit to entertain the Friends of Wimborne Library on 29 January at 7pm.

Entry is free for the

Friends of WL, £3 for guests or £6 for a year’s Friends’ membership to include free entry to this event. Tickets are available at Wimborne Library or at the door on the night. Refreshments available.

Lorna Ross, 16, has won the 2019 Jean Ware Legacy Award.

The West Moors teenager received a glass trophy and will be able to claim up to £1,000 to help her dance career.

The Legacy Award was introduced in 2012 to mark the Olympic Games in London. In recognition of the commitment and hard work of the late Councillor Jean Ware, West Moors Parish Council renamed the Legacy Award in her memory.

Lorna started dancing at seven years old, falling

in love with it instantly.

Exams were taken annually under ISTD (Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing).

Reaching a high level in ‘Rock ‘n’ Roll’ and ‘Freestyle’ has enabled Lorna received the trophy from Lorna to participate in Cllr Mike Hawkes at a recent carnivals, shows and parish council meeting work with younger dancers at DH Dance contemporary performer.

School. After studying To be able to achieve a GCSE Dance, Lorna has degree in dance she must progressed onto BTEC attend auditions in London Dance at Brockenhurst for which costs are high.

College along with two other There will be travel, one A-levels. Lorna hopes to to one lessons, workshop become a choreographer and theatre production and or a professional costume costs.

Repair and reuse The BBC programme The Repair Shop has been

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

a huge success with viewers, but you don’t have to travel to the Weald and Downland Museum in West Sussex – where it is filmed – as you can take advantage of a similar facility on your doorstep.

Wimborne Repair Café – which is in partnership with Wimborne War on Waste – is based at the Community Learning and Resources Centre in King Street. Wimborne.

It operates once a month from 12.30pm to 2.30pm, with the next one on Saturday 15 February.

People can bring along their broken items. Small electrical items, clothes, toys, crockery and small furniture are all welcome.

Volunteer repair experts will be available to make all possible

repairs free of charge, though donations are appreciated.

Spokesman Charley Smith said, “By promoting repairs we want to help reduce the mountains of waste we throw away in the UK every year. Many people don’t know where they can have things changed – we want to change all that.”

The Repair Café is also looking for more volunteers. You can pop in for a cuppa or lunch at the Sound Kitchen Vegan Café.

It is a help if you let the repair café know you are coming and which items you plan to bring along. They can be contacted on email: wimbornerepaircafe@ gmail.com.

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verwood news

Patagonia trek raises £5,000 for Macmillan

Verwood’s Pam Smith has recently returned from one of her challenging fundraising adventures.

The mother of three and grandmother of five – who pays for her own expenses – has recently returned from trekking in a very remote area of Patagonia, Chile.

Pam raised another £5,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, a charity that she has been fund raising for over the past 19 years. She has completed many treks during that time.

She travelled to a remote area of Southern Chile in fourwheel drive vehicles, on dirt tracts for about eight hours,

before heading off on foot into the wildness.

Pam said, “We walked bare foot through icy, glacial rivers, climbed rickety ladders, scrambled up rocks, cut bushes with a machete to find our way up into even remoter valleys, camped in the wild and ended up zip wiring across a huge, wild river. It was an amazing experience, watching icebergs drifting on glacial lakes as blue as the sky and standing beside a glacier that was only the edge of a vast icecap. The most amazing

thing was that we never saw another person the whole time we were walking, it was so wild.”

Pam says she would like to thank everyone who donated to her expenses at carnivals and fairs. If you would like to hear more about the talks that Pam gives about her treks to many parts of the world including Chile please email: pamcsmith@hotmail. co.uk or telephone 012012 822198.

Pam is planning another year of fund-raising in 2020.

Pam on the trek

What a jolly time!

A jolly time was had by all at the recent Verwood Afternoon TG Christmas meeting. Sherry and nibbles were provided, plus a Christmas present for each member. Ladies sang and danced along to Barry James on his guitar. A recent Christmas lunch at Remedy Oak was enjoyed by over 70 members of Dorset Federation.

The next event will be a coffee morning in January.

Civic lunch

The Verwood Mayor, Councillor Mrs Pat Morrow held her civic lunch on Sunday 1 December at the Hub in Verwood. The High Sheriff, Mr Philip Warr, and local community representatives attended. Verwood Concert Brass Band entertained the guests.

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pets and wildlife / an animal’s eyes speak a powerful language.

British and Irish moths on the move Scientists involved in compiling the Atlas of Britain and Ireland’s Larger Moths have revealed that our moths are on the move.

A series of dramatic changes has driven this development.

Intensive agriculture has caused the decline of many moth species through the destruction of wildlife-rich habitats and use of fertilizers and pesticides.

Widespread environmental pollution such as artificial light at night and chemicals in the air and soil, are altering plant and animal communities in ways that we don’t yet fully understand.

Man-made climate change has facilitated the spread of moths to new parts of Britain and Ireland that were formerly too cold, while at the same time posing a risk to species found in cold habitats.

The new book lists 893 species. Scientists’ analysis of distribution

records over the period 1970-2016 in particular, showed that 31% of 390 larger moth species decreased significantly in Britain. During that same period 38% of them became significantly more widespread in Britain (with the remainder showing non-significant changes).

As a result, the suite of moths found in any particular part of Britain and Ireland is changing rapidly.

The atlas is the first publication to trace the distribution of all larger moths of Britain, Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands in forensic detail.

It is based on more than 25 million records sourced from Butterfly Conservation’s National Moth Recording Scheme and the MothsIreland database. These date from the 18th century through to 2016, meaning this volume contains 275 years of moth-recording effort all available in one.

The book represents a major stride forwards both

for moth recording and conservation.

Lead researcher on the atlas, Dr Zoë Randle says the Atlas of Britain and Ireland’s Large Moths is a landmark publication adding, “Moths are indicators of the health of our environment, the declines reported are concerning, especially when you consider the potential knock on effects for other creatures such as bats and birds that rely on moths and their caterpillars as a food source. Moths also have an important role as pollinators of wildflowers and garden plants, they could be considered to be the bees of the nighttime. Ultimately, we need to understand and value other species and the benefits they bring to our lives and the perils we face if we don’t.”

Unfortunately, the atlas confirms some species have been lost in recent decades, such as the Brighton Wainscot and Orange Upperwing, and there are grave concerns for others.

Losses would have been worse if not for conservation action, which has greatly reduced the risk of extinction for moths such as the New Forest Burnet and Barberry Carpet.

Meanwhile other moths have colonised Britain, such as the stunning Clifden Nonpareil, Treelichen Beauty and Blackspotted Chestnut, or have spread rapidly northwards.

In general, the abundance of moths has declined. Detailed monitoring (using

standardised methods at fixed sites) of moth numbers enabled the calculation of long-term population trends for 397 species in Britain: 34% of moth species decreased significantly in abundance over the period 1970-2016, compared with only 11% of species which increased significantly (the remainder showing smaller, nonsignificant changes).

The Moth Atlas of Britain & Ireland can be purchased at www.naturebureau. co.uk/atlas-of-britainirelands-larger-moths.

© Butterfly Conservation, New Forest Burnet: Keith Tailby

Rare wildlife in Landford receives boost The New Forest National Park Authority and Wiltshire Wildlife Trust have been awarded £28,000 to improve Landford Bog for rare plants, invertebrates and reptiles.

The nature reserve – the size of 11 football pitches – is a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is an internationally rare wet heath and bog.

National Grid is funding measures to prevent the bog from drying out, to secure the reserve for cattle which help manage the site for wildlife through their grazing, and to improve visitor access with new

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

Bog Asphodel ©Steve Day

kissing gates, and a boardwalk.

Nearly 30 Nationally Scarce invertebrates have been recorded at Landford Bog as well as species that are locally uncommon including the raft spider and silver-studded blue butterfly, and the Nationally Scarce wood cricket.

Protected reptiles include common lizard,

grass snake and adder.

The reserve is a refuge for rare plants including heather and cross-leaved heath, bog asphodel, purple moor grass, sphagnum mosses, and carnivorous plants sundew and pale butterwort.

The focus at Landford will be on diverting attention from the pylons and creating a peaceful place for walks and

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ringwood news Continued from front page

Opposition to Blashford development continues

By Marilyn Barber The outline application to develop land off Snails Lane was submitted to New Forest District Council in December 2018 and since then the authority has received hundreds of objections.

Last December the Environment Agency said they maintained their objection to the application and recommended refusal because of the high flooding risk.

The Agency said the

Flood Risk Assessment had failed to demonstrate how climate change would affect the site and details of where the houses would be located on the site in relation to the flood zones.

Their objections could be overcome in a number of ways including the provision of proof that the homes would be safe for the lifetime of the development – 100 years.

In August 2019 Ellingham, Harbridge

and Ibsley Parish Council commented that it had a number of concerns including the fear that the density of the development would overwhelm the existing local community.

However, the council’s main concern was environmental issues and it said the area, which was predominantly a former silt pond for a mineral processing works provided a species corridor between the River Avon, adjoining

New look for U3A ‘Learn, Laugh, Live’ is the new strapline for Ringwood U3A. The Ringwood club, which is for those that are no longer in full time employment, is hoping to recruit additional members in the New Year.

It promises varied and interesting talks at its monthly meetings, which are held every third Thursday from 2 to 4pm at Greyfriars Community Centre. There are also a range of some 25 ‘interest group’ activities ranging from art to walks.

A spokesman said, “If your New Year resolution is to get out more,

stay active, make new friends and have fun do come along and meet us.”

Forthcoming speakers are: Thursday, 16 January, Christopher Legrand will talk on his wildlife photography trip to Namibia.

Thursday, 20 February, retired police officer Paul Stickler will present ‘The Green Bicycle Murder’.

Thursday, 19 March, Katy England will give a talk on ‘Bringing The Stone Age To Life’. For more information see www.ringwoodu3a. org.uk or call Pete on 01425 478077.

Blashford Lakes and the New Forest.

In March last year – as detailed in the Mid March edition of Viewpoint - TV presenter and naturalist Chris Packham backed a campaign to oppose the development saying, “This area is an important wildlife colony and not the sort of place for new houses. We need houses, but not here.

It is short sighted and short term.”

New Forest District

Council responded that the application is still current and no decision has been made. The authority is unable to say when the application will be going to committee.

The video on Facebook by Chris Packham has been shared widely and viewed nearly 30,000 times and is still being shared. You can find it by searching Chris Packham Snails Lane on Facebook.

Council grants Ringwood Town Council presented grant aid cheques at its last meeting.

Poulner Junior School PTA received £750 towards the costs of an environmental area for the school children; Avon Valley Concerts received £500 to assist with costs of updating the organisation’s website and The Rotary Club of Ringwood received £500 for Christmas Eve festivities in the Market Place.

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Meesons Solicitors branch out It is a New Year and the renamed Meesons Solicitors, New House remain based in the heart of Ringwood’s market place and will continue to offer all the broad range of legal services to Ringwood and the surrounding areas for existing and new clients.

Edward Holmes, director is delighted to confirm that Ruth Lucas has agreed to join him as a fellow director in the company.

Edward, together with Nichola Turpin will continue to offer dispute resolution/ litigation services Directors Ruth Lucas and Edward Holmes and employment advice. Fiona Clarke and Ruth will provide wills, LPAs, tax and estate administration advice. Sue Barnes will continue to give matrimonial and children advice while Sarah Macey and Meriel Quain will continue to undertake domestic and commercial sales and purchases of properties.

Please do not hesitate to contact Meesons Solicitors or look at the website for more information. Contact details are on the adjacent advertisement.

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| 15

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

Legacy enabled extension of radiotherapy services Robert White, who lost his life to neuroendocrine tumours at the age of 62, wanted to acknowledge the exemplary care given to him by the Dorset Cancer Centre, at Poole Hospital, under the supervision of his clinical oncologist, Dr Mike Bayne.

Robert, an entrepreneur who was born in Poole, left the Robert White Legacy Fund.

This together with £1.75million from Dorset County Hospital’s Cancer Appeal, enabled the £9.15million Robert White Centre in Dorchester to be officially opened on 12 December 2018 by

actor Martin Clunes as an extension of the Poole Hospital-based Dorset Cancer Centre. Equipped with the latest linear accelerator (LINAC) it has enabled patients to receive the best-possible radiotherapy treatment in the west of the county for the first time.

For years, patients in the north, south and west of the county had to travel to the Dorset Cancer Centre at Poole Hospital for radiotherapy treatment.

The first radiotherapy patient was treated on 14 January 2019 and the centre has now administered 5,272 patient treatments.

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Viewpoint is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

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The difference between caring at work and caring like family

Combining luxurious surroundings with genuinely caring people, Netley Court offers a highquality care home environment. This is a place where quality and compassion are stitched into the fabric of the building, creating a warm and supportive atmosphere in which residents can live a comfortable and fulfilled life.

Netley Court is proud to offer: • • • • • • •

Robert White

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

Residential, dementia, *respite and *day care (*subject to availability) All bedrooms are en-suite with digital TV, telephone point and 24-hour call bell Home-cooked, nutritious food A skilled and dedicated staff team Visitors’ lounge, garden room, lounges and dining areas Hairdressing salon, chiropody and in-house laundry service Landscaped gardens with patios, sun terraces and stunning views across Southampton water

The focus is on relationships as much as care, and the team spend time listening and learning from residents – whether it’s their life stories or personal tastes and preferences. These relationships at the heart of Netley Court are just part of the deep commitment to quality. Over time, systems have been established to ensure each resident benefits from consistent, tailored care. Personal care plans are a feature of the home, and help to ensure the precise tastes and preferences of every single resident are recorded.

The skilled care at Netley Court is a source of reassurance to residents and their family members, who can witness the positive impact that staff can have on the health and happiness of residents. Happiness doesn’t have to stop with the diagnosis of dementia, and Netley Court is proud to have established a reputation as specialists in supporting people living with dementia – not to mention their family and friends.

Netley Court’s friendly welcome and warm-hearted nature is underpinned by a sincere determination to have a positive influence on the lives of all residents. Whether helping someone to recover from illness or an operation, or simply making life more fulfilled and comfortable for residents, the team at Netley Court make a difference to the people they care for.

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health and care

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Viewpoint is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

Debra Stephenson opens new treatment centre at Poole Hospital An enhanced treatment unit, providing a ‘one-stop-shop’ for patients, has been officially opened at Poole Hospital.

The Outpatients Treatment Centre provides a range of clinics for patients in east Dorset. It supports the relocation of some of the hospital’s local anaesthetic treatment procedures previously undertaken by the hospital’s day and main theatres - releasing vital theatre capacity back into these areas.

The majority of the funding for the project has been donated

by About Face, a local charity supporting people who have head and neck cancer. They have contributed £60,000 to the centre as part of its local support programme.

The facility was officially opened by actress and impressionist, Debra Stephenson.

Debra has starred in TV programmes including Bad Girls, Coronation

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Set realistic goals and do something you enjoy It’s the New Year and for so many of us the most popular resolution is to commit to get fit. But just how do we go about even making a start? Dr Nashir Karmali DC from Alchemy Health Clinic shares some top tips.

Don’t run before you can walk Street, The Impressions Show with Culshaw and Stephenson and ITV’s Newzoids.

Frances Burden, About Face’s chairman of trustees, said, “We are delighted as a voluntary charity for head and neck cancer to be associated with this project.”

Peter Brooks, About Face trustee, added, “This is a continuing collaboration between us and the hospital which we are sure will continue for many years to come.”

The Outpatient Treatment Centre is staffed by doctors and dentists who work within this area supported by a team of registered nurses, registered dental nurses, healthcare assistants, hygienists and prosthetic specialists.

If you’re thinking of taking up running, begin with a brisk 15-minute walk, twice a day. Gradually build up to 30 minutes and then an hour a day in one stretch. Then combine walking and running: walk for a minute and run for a minute for about 30 minutes and build up to an hour. Gradually, go for more running and less walking until you can run continuously for 30 minutes.

Tune up your engine

Running can be bad for your joints if you already have ankle, knee or hip issues or if you are overweight. So if you have ankle, knee, hip or low back pain then you should get this checked out before you start. You could do some gentle exercises

at home to get your body moving again. Visit www. alchemy-healthclinic.com/ low-back for easy-tofollow exercises you can fit into your working day.

Keep up the good work

The best way to maintain your exercise regime is to set realistic goals.

Aim at spending 30 minutes a day on personal exercises; join up with a buddy for walking, cycling and going to classes.

Most importantly – do something you enjoy. If the gym doesn’t appeal – why not take up dancing classes? Or try yoga – relaxing and restorative.

Alchemy Health Clinic offers a range of yoga classes suitable for all levels. And if you do break your resolution for a few days – just start again rather than giving up completely.

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| 17

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

If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Viewpoint is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

Jump up and get into the swing of things This January Ferndown Leisure is launching new badminton and trampoline sessions.

Badminton

Badminton is an easy sport to learn and can be a very social game.

The speed of the shuttlecock also makes this one of the quickest of the racket sports. It can be played at any pace making it enjoyable for all ages. The centre’s qualified coaches, David and Arran, will help develop your skills and get a love for the game.

Ferndown Leisure is working closely with Ferndown Upper School to generate more interest in the sport.

Monday 5.00-5.30pm ages 4-7yrs Monday 5.30-6.30pm ages 8-13yrs Monday 6.30-7.30pm ages 14yrs plus

Trampolining

Whether you enjoy bouncing in the back garden and want to improve your skills, feel like trying it for the first time or are looking to improve.

Sessions are run by highly qualified staff to ensure it’s safe and fun so you can enjoy bouncing and learning new skills. The sessions are developed through close links with British Gymnastics.

A new pre school session is starting on Saturday morning 10am-11am.

In addition to this, the following sessions have spaces available.

Tuesday 4pm-5pm Beginner, 5pm-6pm Beginner Wednesday 4pm-5pm Beginner, 5pm-6pm Intermediate Saturday 9am-10am Beginner

Dancing

With a Stagecraft approach, join Amy for a course of dance, drama, and singing on Saturday morning 10am-11.30am, all ages from 4 years plus.

Learn to Swim

If you can swim, you can enjoy all of the exciting activities that the water has to offer. Ferndown Leisure offers lessons for all ages and all lessons are taught by qualified teachers. The centre works to Swim England’s Learn to Swim Pathway in all sessions.

For more information on any of these sports please contact 01202 877468.

Nominate an exceptional care worker Care support workers in Dorset are to be recognised.

Dorset Council is setting up a quarterly ‘Good Practice Award’ to celebrate the hard work of care and support professionals in the area.

The council would like nominations from people receiving care and support, their families and friends, colleagues, and employers. Log onto www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/care-andsupport-for-adults/good-practiceaward.aspx to nominate someone.

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

Mathew Kendall, executive director for Adult Social Care at Dorset Council said, “Dorset Council provides support and care to over 4,000 vulnerable residents across the county. To do this successfully and safely, we rely totally upon the dedication of care and support workers. The work can carry challenges, such as supporting someone at the end of their life, and the role often goes without the recognition it deserves.”

There is a national campaign called ‘When you care, Every Day Makes a Difference’ which aims to attract people with the right values and skills to work in the care and support profession.

Further details can be found at www. everydayisdifferent.co.uk.

Lasting Powers of Attorney offer throughout January Diverse Abilities is offering a discount on Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) booked throughout January.

The offer includes 25% on a pair of LPAs booked throughout the period, and 15% on a single LPA. Lin Topp, advice service administrator, commented, “Everyone should consider making an LPA to ensure that your wishes are abided by and a trusted family member or friend can make decisions on your behalf just in case an accident or illness occurs.”

Previously known as Disability Wessex, the team offers assistance to people who are perhaps struggling with complicated issues or situations, questions and forms in relation to disability benefits and LPAs. The Diverse Abilities advice team can assist you with deciding whether to create a financial LPA, a welfare LPA, or both, completing the forms, and overseeing the signing and registration of the applications. Call 0300 330 5514 for more details or visit Diverse Abilities website.

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If you are in any doubt about your health you must consult your GP. Viewpoint is not responsible or liable for damages, which may occur as a result of your use or misuse of the information available on this page.

health and care

Learning disability nurses mark 100 years To celebrate a century of learning disability nursing, local nurses past and present gathered at Bulbury Woods Golf Club near Poole with a commemorative ‘100’ cake being served up to mark the milestone.

The Learning Disability (LD) Nurses Team at Dorset HealthCare offers practical help with physical and mental health problems, relationships, behaviours and communication.

Staff work closely with families, carers and GPs to ensure the care and support provided is tailored to the needs of the individual, helping people live safely and healthily in the community.

Susannah Bailey, 44, from Bournemouth, has a disability and was supported by the team for six years. She had previously felt depressed and had little motivation but things changed when Ginny Boniface, her LD nurse, worked with her to create a wellbeing plan.

Whenever Susannah was feeling down, the

Susannah Bailey and senior nurse Juliet Mitchell

plan gave her visuals and prompts of things to make her feel better, such as call a friend, have a cup of tea or play a game.

Her mental wellbeing improved enormously, and she became more independent thanks to Ginny and the team – developing new interests and a love of cooking, in particular.

Susannah said, “Ginny was a very kind nurse, provided great advice and helped me to get better. I

am more independent now and feel happier. She made a real difference to my life.”

Susannah continues to receive regular physiotherapy from the Trust, and she helps interview potential new LD nurses, providing valuable input from a patient’s point of view.

To find out more regarding Dorset HealthCare’s learning disability services across the county, visit www. learningdisabilitiesdorset.uk

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

2020! New Year, New You

Although there is nothing to stop you waking up one morning on any day throughout the year and making a bold decision to change your life, the first day of a New Year is usually the one on which we make our resolutions. And what better time than in a leap year, which means that with 29 days in February, we will have 366 days in which to keep our resolutions, and not 365.

Our advertisers have a few suggestions on how they can help with your resolutions, so read on…

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Drumming up enthusiasm

New Year offers to get you fit

Terry Sparkes began learning drums when he was 14 and played with various groups, later joining a professional band touring Europe.

With over 35 years experience playing various styles, Terry covers all types of musical genres. He studied with Paul Brodie, a well-known session drummer who played with many top recording artists.

“I teach players of all abilities,” he says, “some who want to play for fun, and others who wish to do grades.”

Are you ready to get fit in 2020?

New Year offers at QE and the Verwood Hub are available to purchase. All offers provide platinum benefits of unlimited fitness classes, gym use and swimming at QE. In addition to these benefits, you will receive as part of your membership, a free induction and an opportunity to have a bespoke fit programme designed for you to kickstart your fitness journey to a stronger and healthier you.

“If you are ready for us to be your centre for leisure in 2020, please do get in touch with the team or browse our website at: dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/sport-leisure “We hope to see you soon!”

The Lifestyle Active Team - Advertisement Feature -

One year, over 2,800 stone gone forever!

In 2019 local Slimming World consultants have helped people within our local community to lose over 2,800 stone, the equivalent of around 50,000 cans of soup or 11 cars. The best thing is, unlike many food plans, Slimming World promotes healthy eating from a huge list of foods meaning members feel liberated, satisfied and are able to eat confidently and still lose weight.

Each consultant has had their own weight loss journey with Slimming World, which means they all know how it feels to join a group when you’re unhappy with how you look and feel.

They appreciate the highs and lows of weight loss, the struggles and amazing successes and will be there every step of the way to support every member to their dream weight.

If you’re looking to lose weight, whether you’ve got half a stone, a few stone or more to lose, why not pop into a group, have a cuppa and experience the incredible support available to you.

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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2020! New Year, New You

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

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Looking for a new, year-round activity?

Braeside Bowling Club may just have the answer with outdoor carpet bowling ideal for those new to the sport and those sportsmen (golfers, cricketers, etc) who are either looking for a winter activity or who are looking for a sport which is kinder on the body.

Everyone is welcome at the club to enjoy the facilities of the Clubhouse (including a fully licensed bar), and to try your hand at the art of bowling on the carpet.

Bowling is a gentle sport – exercise but nothing too excessive and absolute beginners will be as welcome as those who have played previously. Members describe Braeside as “a friendly club” and it has coaches to introduce the basics. On Monday afternoons and Friday afternoons there is “social” bowling and, unlike grass clubs, Braeside is open all year round and membership (currently around £3.00 per week) makes the sport both enjoyable and inexpensive. Non-playing membership is available for those who wish to take part in the club’s social activities of whist, bridge, and a host of different social events.

Do take up this invitation to come and explore this new sport, the members of Braeside Bowling Club look forward to meeting you.

Braeside Bowling Club, Braeside Road, St Leonards, BH24 2PJ (next to the village hall) Tel: 01425 479701 www.braesidebc.co.uk

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BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

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Whole foods and healthy habits

Robyn Eede is a qualified clinical nutritionist and personal trainer helping women lose weight, gain energy and become their healthiest self. She has been fascinated by health for over nine years and helped 1,000s of people around the world get healthier through whole foods and developing healthy habits.

2020! New Year, New You - Advertisement Features -

Be part of something special Where Activate Health and Activity volunteer team are seeking children love more volunteers to support local people to get active. In East Dorset, there are 19 health walks, three health rides to dance and two weekly accessible cycling sessions led by trained Health and Activity volunteers.

There are a number of roles available.

Accessible Cycling - to help meet and greet as well as leading or backing up weekly rides.

Health Walks - lead groups on hour-long walks from Sturminster Marshall, Ferndown, West Moors, Corfe Mullen, West Parley and Verwood.

Health Cycles - lead hour-long cycle rides at Ferndown, Moors Valley Country Park and Kingston Lacy House, Wimborne.

Full training is given. No experience is necessary; all you need is a friendly personality, a keen interest in helping others and a little spare time during the week.

Next training courses are: Health Walk Leader Training – 13 February, Wimborne, 9.30am-4pm Health Cycle Leader Training – 30 January, Kingston Lacy, 9.30am-4pm Accessible Cycle Leader Training – tbc (Please phone and leave your details).

For more information, call 01425 480811 or email activate@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

The New Forest School of Dance was established over 40 years ago and continues to provide expert dance tuition in the Ringwood area.

Every child’s love of dance is encouraged, inspired and nurtured in a happy and caring atmosphere by fully qualified RAD and ISTD teachers.

See advertisement for more details.

Post-Christmas Facial Rejuvenation The winter is by far the harshest of all the seasons for our skin as the drop in temperature results in a much poorer circulation within our bodies. This results in a slower cell regeneration, leaving dry and dead skin cells present for much longer, culminating in skin that needs re-nourishing.

Hermitage Beauty tailor all their facials to target your specific skin needs, whether it be hydration, sensitivity, anti-ageing etc. Comfort Zone products are free from parabens and chemicals and are a sustainable and clean brand, which are B certified – meaning they focus on purpose over profit – providing top quality products at affordable prices.

Come and experience the magic of Comfort Zone.

Hermitage Beauty offer a vast variety of facials from express to 75 minutes of pure bliss.

January - March offer

Book three 60-minute or more facials and receive a complimentary 30 minute massage, express manicure or express pedicure with every facial.

(Offer valid until 1 April) For more information or booking please email reception@hermitagebeauty.com or phone 01425 402461

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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2020! New Year, New You

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY

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Ferndown Fitness

We are frequently being told about the health benefits of regular exercise and this can be especially true as we get older.

To advertise in VIEWPOINT call 01202 941465

Ferndown Fitness is a club that provides a friendly, fun and relaxed atmosphere where you can exercise, lose weight and improve fitness with support and encouragement from a dedicated team of instructors.

Everyone is made to feel welcome and comfortable and given an individual exercise programme suited to them, even if they haven’t exercised for years.

Why not call 01202 855321 for a chat or pop in and find out why Ferndown Fitness (opposite Ferndown library) is different from other gyms.

Martin has walked away from Type 2 Diabetes “My diagnosis of type 2 diabetes was the kick I needed to sort out my unhealthy habits.

Through changes to my diet and the introduction of daily walks, I’ve reduced my HBA1C (three-month average blood sugar level) reading from 129 to 52 in less than six months,” says Martin.

“I now walk 5km to the beach and recently completed my 100th consecutive daily walk. Photographing wonderful sunrises makes it so worth it. I track my steps using an app. I’ve cut back on carbs, don’t have takeaways and eat much more fruit. I’ve switched from processed food and prepare fresh meals.

“There’s still a way for me to go but I intend to stay positive and the results have been encouraging so far. I’ve lost 2.5 stone but want to go further, so am going to contact LiveWell and join a weight loss group via their voucher scheme. It’s encouraging to hear my colleagues notice the transformation. I’ve even had the confidence to join a couple of dating apps!”

Are you ready to take your next step to LiveWell? Call freephone 0800 840 1628 or visit livewelldorset.co.uk

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2020! New Year, New You

BUSINESS | COMMUNITY | UNITY / real people, real news, local advertising.

- Advertisement Feature -

To advertise in VIEWPOINT call 01202 941465

Boys2Men Conference

Simon Weston

Iron Mill College, a leading provider of education in wellbeing, is looking forward to hosting Simon Weston CBE and other special guests at their upcoming conference: ‘Boys2Men: How can we support the mental health and wellbeing of boys and young men?’ This one-day event, on Saturday 21 March 2020, takes place at the beautiful Canford School in Wimborne. It is open to parents, carers, teachers, youth workers, therapists and anyone committed to the mental health and wellbeing of boys and young men.

Simon will share how, as a young man, he turned his experience of trauma into a motivating force for finding meaning in his life. He will share key moments from his journey from helping himself and other young people as insights into what might support young men today also find a sense of purpose.

Book now: www.ironmill.co.uk or call 01202 743804.

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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2020! New Year, New You

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Working with Bluebird Care Why did I become a care professional?

Working in care is rewarding where your job truly has an impact on someone’s life. A care professional could be the only person a customer will see who makes them feel valued, important and respected. Bringing a smile and knowing that you have made a difference gives you a sense of job satisfaction that is incomparable to an office-based role.

What does the job involve?

The role of a care professional at Bluebird Care is varied, from helping someone to get up and dressed, to taking someone out shopping. You can be involved in helping to prepare meals and tidying up afterwards. Continuity of care is important for the effective provision of care. It allows for the development of an honest and open relationship where customers feel safe and valued.

What skills are required?

Tania Davis, care manager says that whilst qualifications are important, attitude is the most crucial. Being compassionate, sociable and enjoying working with people are vital. While being a highly rewarding and worthwhile job, the skills to make a good care professional means it’s not for everyone. You have to love the job and be dedicated to it.

If you are interested, please email: ferndown@bluebirdcare.co.uk or telephone 01202 977 200.

Local News Protected trees mapped out Read all about it An innovative online map is now available showing all the protected trees within the New Forest National Park.

The new interactive map from the New Forest National Park Authority will help people identify trees which need a special planning application to be pruned or felled. The locations of trees with preservation orders (TPOs) are shown, as well as those, which have already received applications for tree work. It also shows the conservation areas within

the National Park – where trees over a certain size are automatically protected.

The New Forest is the first National Park in the UK to make all this information publicly available on one online map. See the map at newforestnpa.gov.uk/ treemap

Emmanuel CE Middle School in Verwood has opened a new chapter with its new Accelerated Reader scheme for years five and six.

Using an online programme called Star Reading the scheme sees youngsters participating in fun quizzes to test their knowledge of books they have read and earn reward points.

And now both parents and teachers can monitor their children’s reading progress as they go up through the levels.

Pupils with head Rob Christopher (left), Jerry Brenton and librarian Emma Shelley

Head of English, Jerry Brenton, said, “We have already made significant improvements in our English Curriculum and end of KS2 SATS and we believe this scheme will boost that even more.

“It’s fun, interactive

and the online element also complements our very well-stocked library and also the wonderful resources at Verwood Library.”

Emmanuel CE Middle School joined Wimborne Academy Trust in 2018.

Elderly woman cheated out of thousands A Poole man who befriended an elderly woman and stole £14,000 from her has been jailed for three years.

Venancio Gomes Jardim, also known as Mike Garden, was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court on 23 December 2019 after being found guilty at an earlier trial of five separate counts of fraud by abuse of position and theft.

Jardim, 56, of The Avenue, first befriended his victim – a woman in her 80s who was suffering from deteriorating mental health

– in August 2016.

He was able to gain her trust and isolated her from friends and family as well as controlling her daily routines, including changing her GP surgery of 30 years against her wishes.

Jardim denied access to her when essential services such as community mental health teams and adult social care were called to her address and he attempted to gain authority to make financial and health related decisions in respect of his victim.

Concerns were initially

raised by numerous friends, neighbours and community members. Following partnership work involving adult social care teams, community mental health services and police an interim Court of Protection Order was obtained in April 2017, followed by a full order in August 2017, in a bid to safeguard the victim and her finances. Jardim contested the order but was unsuccessful.

Investigations revealed that, following an assessment in March 2017 that ruled the victim lacked

the capacity to manage her own financial affairs, the defendant had used her bank card to make cash withdrawals and persuaded the victim to write cheques to him with the total amounting to £14,000.

He left the victim at her overdraft limit before attending at her bank, demanding the transfer of £80,000 from savings to the account accessible to him.

The card and PIN number of which was later found at his home address.

He had also instigated the sale of both of his

Venancio Gomes Jardim also known as Mike Garden

victim’s properties, for a total value of £850,000.

Jardim was arrested on 6 June 2017.

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| 25

Wimborne Save the Children Parade A well-supported Save the Children Parade set off around Wimborne Minster on 14 December bringing colour and festive cheer with it.

A volley of gunfire from Wimborne Militia heralded the start of the fund-raising parade at Cobhams, which included the Mayor and Mayoress of Wimborne in a vintage car and the Mayor of Ferndown with her escort, also in a vintage vehicle that had to be crank-started.

According to the organiser, Susie Gatrell, there were 46 floats, 16 vintage vehicles and four American cars.

She wanted to thank everyone who gave their time freely to help especially those who loaned lorries, including Phill Bascombe who had loaned five lorries for free for

26 |

VIEWPOINT January 2020

the floats.

The snow princess was Nell Vanden Dool, her attendants were Isobel Thrower-Knight and Amelia Ryan and they shared their float, drawn by a magnificent steam engine, with Father Christmas and Rudolph. The Mayor’s Scout Jake Churchill also took part.

Christmas events took place throughout the day and into the evening to coincide with the parade.

The Save the Children parade was founded in Wimborne by Margery Ryan over 30 years ago.

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Calling all businesses: raffle prizes needed to help clean our oceans Local father of three, Chris Rowden, is attempting a 100 mile run in May to raise at least £1,000 for Plastic Oceans UK, a charity dedicated to cleaning our oceans.

To help raise funds for this, Chris is appealing for prizes for a raffle he is intending to hold in the coming months. Chris said, “I have already got some great prizes from the Bournemouth Oceanarium.

I’d love to make this a huge raffle to raise a ton of money, so if your business would like to donate a prize, please private message me on Facebook at facebook.com/chris. rowden.50.”

If you can’t offer a

prize, check out Chris Rowden’s justgiving page: www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/chris-rowden2 where you can make a donation.

Chris Rowden

Trust pays tribute to David Bellamy Wimborne-based environmental charity East Dorset Heritage Trust has paid tribute to its patron, Dr David Bellamy, who died at the end of last year at the age of 86.

Dr Bellamy became the Trust’s patron upon its foundation in 1987 and remained in the role until his death. He visited Wimborne several times for Trust occasions, the last time being the re-opening of Allendale House in 2001. He was always happy to chat to trustees and Friends of the Trust about his passion for the environment.

Chairman of the Trust,

Derek Burt, who met Dr Bellamy on his Wimborne visits, said Dr Bellamy had been a supporter of East Dorset Heritage Trust since its founding and his loss would be greatly felt by all.

Trust manager Sarah Evans said, “It is with great sadness to learn that Dr Bellamy has died.

It is a few years since we last had contact, but we have always been so very proud of his patronage of the Trust.

A sad loss for us all at a time when conservation and environmental issues are at the forefront of everyday life.”

Just Sing concert is music to local charity Three local choirs joined voices to raise a staggering £3,510 in just one afternoon for Dorset-based children’s charity Tyler’s Friends.

Over 100 singers from Just Sing adult choirs in Colehill, Blandford and Lytchett Matravers came together to perform two concerts in one day.

The funds raised will all go to support bereaved parents. Tyler’s Friends help enable parents to afford a funeral or memorial service for their child. The charity also strives to forge

better working practice between medical and funeral professionals to make sure parents get their wishes and the chance to say goodbye properly to their beloved child.

Kelly-Louise Perry, who launched Just Sing choirs to encourage adults of any singing ability, said, “ We are overwhelmed by the money we have raised this year and so delighted to be supporting a small and local charity that gives such sensitive support to bereaved parents. “

Promise of 200 new jobs in 5G network project Plans to run a Smart Place pilot including a 5G network in Bournemouth have been approved by BCP Council’s Cabinet.

The council is trailblazing the scheme in the town which will provide a high-tech fibre optic testbed and increase Wi-Fi connectivity speed.

Funded by the Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership the £1.3 million project is expected to attract further investment to the area and create around 200 new jobs in the first two years.

Councillor Vikki Slade, leader of BCP Council, said, “We are incredibly excited to be pushing forward with the Smart Place pilot at

Lansdowne. This will help us understand how 5G and other new technologies could help us improve public services and quality of life for residents.

“The Smart Place pilot is not just about faster data speeds through 5G. It will enable things and machines to connect to the internet and gives us the capacity in the network to do this.

“The opportunities that all this creates for our local communities and future generations will be dramatically transformative.

From a social care perspective it will lead to the development of applications that will enable residents to lead longer and healthier

lives at home leading to greater independence. In health, it will enable people to monitor and manage minor health conditions themselves. From a transport perspective it will help us manage our traffic network more efficiently by spotting incidents earlier, re-directing traffic and reducing congestion.

“We already have a large digital and creative sector based at Lansdowne and this pilot will be a massive boost to what has already become a leading business district in the region.”

Work to design the Smart Place pilot will get underway this year.

Start the New Year with a murder mystery Fordingbridge Twinning Association says “Bonne année à tous” and invites you to take part in their next event.

‘The Porthole Affair’ is set in 1935 aboard the sister ship of RMS Titanic bound for New York. And if dentists set your teeth on edge, the sudden death of the infamous

Hal E Tosis might really send shivers down your spine. His death is followed by a tragic suicide and Detective Ivor Notion soon realises things are not as they seem.

Tickets cost £15 and are available from Caxton Décor, Fordingbridge Bookshop and Jessica

Fashion. They include a two-course supper and loads of entertainment.

Bring your own drinks. It will take place at St Mary’s Church Hall at 7.30pm on Saturday 8 February.

For further details, contact Alison or Derek Ayling on 01425 650770, or by email, on: hippotrain@ btinternet.com

Champion tossers required Photographs By Tom Scrase mags4dorset is once again one of the sponsors for the Wimborne Minster Pancake Race, which takes place on Shrove Tuesday, 25 February.

The winner of the adult race – over 18s – will become the Minster Pancake Champion 2020 receiving a prize from this magazine, in addition to the John Loader Memorial Cup, presented by Martyn and Kathy Curtler.

The venue is outside the main north porch entrance to the Minster and the first race will commence at 11am as the pancake bell is tolled. Competitors will be required to run round the Minster tossing their pancakes at the four corners of the church.

All competitors should report to the north porch by 10.30am to enrol, complete with frying pan and ready cooked pancake. Anyone can enter – young or old,

individuals, schools, groups and organisations.

There will also be races for the under 18s.

Depending on the number of entries these will be split into three age ranges 4-9, 9-13 and 13-18.

Likewise there will be races for pre-schools and toddlers and those using wheelchairs. Prizes will be awarded to the winners of each category.

So get yourself into training and pick up an entry form from the

They’re off!

Minster or the Parish Office in Church House, (next to the Minster) or just turn up in the day and have some fun.

Marilyn Barber, news editor presents the prize (2019)

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| 27

foodie news / most of us are sorry for what we said when we were hungry.

The Old Beams Inn: reputation set to soar

By Janine Pulford

Peter and Dawn Cheal, the new owners of The Old Beams at Ibsley are working hard with their family to bring back the inn’s reputation for good food that once stretched far and wide.

Having been closed for nine months, the refurbished premises near Ringwood officially reopened last August and the current manager Michelle McCelland arrived in September.

This family-friendly inn boasts an atmosphere that is lighter and brighter, there are plenty of tables in the bar area, a separate dining/ conference conservatory with a dance floor, and a lovely log-effect fire surrounded by easy chairs

28 |

The mains Michelle (centre), and some of her team

and sofas. A carvery comes into its own every Sunday and can be booked privately at other times.

I visited with my husband one Monday lunchtime and the place was pleasantly busy.

We sat at a table near to the fire and enjoyed the ambience before tucking into our starters. My homemade honey roasted parsnip soup zinged with a caramelised flavour and arrived with warm bread and butter. It had a wholesome

VIEWPOINT January 2020

creamy texture and its stunning golden colour came from sweet potato.

In contrast, Nick’s multicoloured grilled pine nut and Mediterranean salad almost popped off the plate. It was full of flavour and texture and complemented by an intense and rich balsamic glaze. The pine nuts were soft and plentiful and there were cherry tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, grated carrot, grated beetroot and rocket in the mix.

Cajun chicken breast served with chips and salad followed for Nick.

The chunky chips were golden and fluffy and the Cajun-spiced chicken was succulent and plentiful.

I opted for the five-bean chilli. It arrived with al-dente rice, nachos and cream cheese. It really got me fired up and I had to use the cream cheese as a coolant.

Though delicious with a rich tomato sauce, the large portion defeated me.

I also had to be sensible about the dessert and Nick and I shared a tangy lemon cheesecake with raspberry coulis, which was melt in the mouth delicious with a huge and artistic spiral of cream at the side. For me, ice cream would have worked better, but Nick has a bigger appetite and wolfed the cream.

Peter and Dawn have lots of plans for the Inn and will be letting the adjoining cottages. The patio and outdoor area will come into its own in the summer with a marquee, relaxed seating and a children’s play area.

Currently there is a quiz

Honey roasted parsnip soup

Grilled pine nut and Mediterranean salad

Nick wolfed the cream

night on the first Wednesday of the month. There will be live music every last Friday of the month from February and the Burley and Ringwood Band and Hyde Band will play concerts in the summer. There is scope for private hire of the conservatory restaurant, which seats 60 for all sorts of functions including breakfast meetings and there is plenty of parking.

The Old Beams is a Freehouse and there are draught ciders as well as Amstel Bier, Heinekin,

Guinness, Fosters, and Ringwood ales.

After our meal, there was no room for coffee.

It wouldn’t surprise me if an “Old Beams’ foodie following” builds rapidly.

The diners looked content and there was a general feeling of bonhomie that the pub was “back”. I can see The Old Beams’ Valentine’s meal being popular too.

To book call 01425 473387.

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foodie news

Launch of The Curry Queen Podcast

Multi award winning Indian food expert, Sarah Ali Choudhury, has teamed up with Podcast Labs.

Together they bring you the Curry Queen Podcast so you can achieve delicious Indian food in your own home. sarahalichoudhury. com/curry-queenpodcast/

Eat out on us winner!

Lisa Willis from Wimborne won last month’s competition. She chose to spend her £60 at the Inn at Cranborne.

Answers: 1. The George.

2. Fleur de Lys (Inn at Cranborne). 3. La Lambretta.

4. Tiien. 5. Bat and Ball Inn. 6. The Albion Inn.

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| 29

Harry Redknapp lights up Fordingbridge Photos by Paul Biggins from View42Photography.com Christmas in Fordingbridge was a roaring success.

Organised, run and funded

by Fordingbridge Events Group on behalf of the town council there was an afternoon of activities for all the family including steam rides, a Santa procession and Harry Redknapp switching on the Christmas lights.

There were street performers and live music from performers including the Hyde Band, Shake Dance, Sandy Balls puppet

show and Forres Sandle Manor choir. There was also as a really successful clothes swap and book signing at Fordingbridge Library. Santa saw over 300 children in his grotto and Rev Gary Philbrick announced the 2019 Local Hero, who this year was Dave Tree, the owner of All The Cool Stuff.

Nicky Jenkins, chairman of Fordingbridge Events Group, said, “I would like to thank all of the committee, volunteers, sponsors of the

Fordingbridge festival and the businesses that have helped shaped our event this year – and the local community for coming out and supporting us in their thousands. Christmas in Fordingbridge had a really lovely vibe and the feedback about the event has been fantastic.”

Just a short while before reaching Fordingbridge, Harry Redknapp had switched on the Christmas lights in Poole. He’s seen here at Fordingbridge.

Bumper turnout for the start of Ringwood’s Christmas The community came together on Sunday 1 December to welcome in ‘Christmas in Ringwood 2019’.

There was plenty of opportunity to buy unusual and unique Christmas gifts from a few pence to a few hundred pounds or to simply soak up the atmosphere. Over 50

30 |

market stalls stretched along the High Street to Fridays Cross, and many local shops stayed open late. The Christmas grotto was busy, the stage in the market place delivered festive enjoyment and there were fairground rides.

Thousands of people gathered to see Father Christmas switch on the

VIEWPOINT January 2020

new town lights.

The event organisers, Ringwood Events Team through Ringwood Town Council, want to express their thanks through Viewpoint Magazine to the many individuals and organisations that supported Christmas in Ringwood and those who came along to celebrate.

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Christmas Carols and Red Barrows! Children bring festive cheer West Moors residents came together on Friday 6 December for Christmas carols at the Petwyn followed by the unique Red Barrows race. Mrs Jacqui Hall, Wareham town crier stood in for Iain Mitchell as he was on holiday and unable to officiate.

The father and son team was won by Mr Matt May and his passenger, Casper. The best-dressed medal went to Lee from the ‘Christmas light house’ on Station Road, which had earlier had an ‘official’ lights switch on, and the medal for the safest and best dressed

barrow went to Spencer from Branksome Carpets.

Santa arrived on what was described by some as an “awesome motorbike” throwing cuddly toys to the excited children.

Stalls lined Station Road and there was plenty of mulled wine and mince pies for the adults.

St Mary’s CE First School in West Moors

Three Legged Cross nativity

Extravaganza lives up to its name The Mayor, Cllr Mrs Pat Morrow, Father Christmas, the carnival queen and princesses turned on the Christmas lights in Verwood at a Christmas Extravaganza held on Ferrett Green.

There were steam engine rides, a children’s ride, Santa’s grotto, burgers, hotdogs, mulled wine and a performance by the Verwood Brass Band.

Those taking part included Verwood Rotary, Verwood Scouts.

Verwood Twinning Association, Verwood Heritage Centre, Verwood Carnival, Verwood Concert Brass and the volunteers who helped with the Christmas lighting.

Three Legged Cross First School

Pupils from St John’s CE First School, part of Wimborne Academy Trust, sang carols and chatted to residents at Harleston House and Bennett Lodge and to a lunch club at Allendale House. Pictured are residents of Harleston House with pupils.

Pictures by John Wadge

Youngsters on horseback meet Santa When Father Christmas flew into Three Legged Cross on 5 December, he was delighted to see so many children waiting for him.

He brought gifts and distributed them among the young riders who have an enjoyable time on horseback every Thursday at Green Cottage Riding for the Disabled.

Lockyer’s Middle School pupils at St Nicholas Church in Corfe Mullen.

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| 31

around & about / what’s happening in your area.

what’s on

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

18 January 10am-3pm

Winnie the Pooh and the Library Bee at Ferndown Library. Free event. Colouring, crafts, stories and family fun.

Children under 8 must be accompanied by a carer. No booking required.

18 January 7.30pm

Country Superstars Experience at The Barrington Theatre, Ferndown - the ultimate country concert.

18-25 January

Highcliffe Charity Players present Jack and the Beanstalk at the Regent Centre, Christchurch. Various times. Box office 01202 499199.

18-25 January

Verwood Pantomime Society present Cinderella at Verwood Hub. Tickets from 01202 828740 or on line at www. verwoodpantomimesociety. co.uk.

18–28 January 10am-4pm

Broadstone Art Society exhibition at The Gallery Upstairs, Upton Park, Poole BH17 7BJ. Closes 2pm on the last day. Proceeds of the raffle to be donated to Wessex Cancer Trust.

19 January 2pm

Longfleet Youth Lions versus Lytchett Matravers Rangers FC at Poole High School, Wimborne Road, Poole.

19 January 4-5pm

Jonny Fluffypink ‘How I came to be where I never was’ at The Red Lion Inn, Church Street, Sturminster Marshall. Free performance.

32 |

20-21 January 10-noon

Family Trees Exhibition at Ringwood Meeting House, featuring the Seymour family.

Free entry

20 January 2.15pm

The Arts Society Wimborne & Blandford. An illustrated Lecture on ‘Weimar Germany’ by Gavin Plumley at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Visitors welcome.

For information visit www. theartssocietywandb.org.uk.

21 January 7.30pm

Concert of popular music by Michael Wooldridge at Queen Elizabeth’s School, Blandford Road, Wimborne on behalf of the Bournemouth Electronic Organ Society. Visitors welcome, £6 payable at the door. Info 01202 895254.

21 January 8pm

Anne Brown, learning manager of Shire Hall Courthouse Museum in Dorchester will speak to Wimborne Civic Society in the Quarterjack room at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Members and non members welcome. £1 for members and £3 for visitors.

24, 25, 31 January and 1 February 2.30pm and 7.30pm Castle Players present Macbeth The Pantomime, described as ‘the Bard meets X Factor’. Lytchett Matravers Village Hall, High Street.

Tickets 01202 912351.

25–27 January from 9am

Big Garden Bird Watch at God’s Acre in the grounds of Wimborne Minster church.

VIEWPOINT January 2020

25 January 10.15am West Moors Horticultural Society coffee morning at the Memorial Hall.

25 January 3pm

Wimborne Town FC play Hendon at the J&Bs Stadium, Cuthbury, Cowgrove Road, Wimborne BH21 4EL

26 January

Marking the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, survivor, Henry Schachter OBE will share his story at Poole Lighthouse for Holocaust Memorial Day. For more information or to register your attendance, please visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ bournemouth-and-pooleholocaust-memorial-daytickets-85634544227

28 January 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening Club meets at West Parley Memorial Hall for a presentation by Tish Borrowman on ‘Cherry Tree Nursery and New Innovations’. Visitors welcome £3. Refreshments available.

Details contact Malcolm Plascott on 01202 950521.

Email@plascott@outlook.com.

29 January 1pm-3pm

East Dorset Fundraisers group meet at Poole Museum, 4, High Street, Poole. A free informal gettogether for charity fundraisers.

30 January 1.30pm

Golden Oldies Film Club presents National Velvet at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne

30 January

Ferndown Chamber breakfast meeting at Ferndown Forest Golf Club. Booking essential.

Email james.edgar@fcfb.org.uk

5 February 7.30pm

The Banff Mountain Film Festival at Lighthouse, Poole .

Also 27 March.

6 February 4.30pm-6pm

Harry Potter Book Night at Wimborne Library. Suitable for ages four to 12. No need to book.

8 February 2.15pm

Bill Lawes will present ‘A Caribbean Cruise’ to The World Ship Society at Broadstone Community & Arts Centre, 21, Dunyeats Road. Enquiries to 07831 111589 or email: steve@ telecommerce.co.uk.

8 February 3pm

Wimborne Town FC play Beaconsfield Town at the J&Bs Stadium, Cuthbury, Cowgrove Road, Wimborne BH21 4EL

8 February 7pm

Bournemouth Male Voice Choir at The Spire, Poole, raising funds for PramaLife. For free ticket search Eventbrite for Bournemouth Male Voice Choir or call Chris on 01202 208328.

14 February

Valentine’s Day. This year it is on Friday.

14 February 2.30pm

Cake Concert with BSO musicians as part of Dementia Friendly events. The Spire Methodist Church, Poole High Street, 2.30pm. Cost £5 payable at the door

15 February 3pm

Wimborne Town FC play Farnborough at the J&Bs Stadium, Cuthbury, Cowgrove Road, Wimborne BH21 4EL

15 February 12.30pm-2.30pm

Wimborne Repair Café at the Community Learning and Resources Centre in King Street. Wimborne. Email: wimbornerepaircafe@gmail. com to let them know you are coming and which items you plan to bring along.

15-16 February 10am–5pm

South West Model Show at The Tank Museum, Bovington.

Model boats, cars, planes, trains and tanks. Tickets: www. tankmuseum.org/whats-on/ events/model-show-spring

16 February 2pm

Mr Watson will talk on Spring Flowers of the Mediterranean at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne

The Wit and Songs of Noel Coward at Alderholt Village Hall. Peter Gill will remind the audience of Coward’s dazzling wit and perform such gems as Mad Dogs and Englishmen.

This is part of the Artsreach programme. Turn to page 35 to discover more events.

11 February 7.30pm

17 February 2.15pm

10 February 2pm-4pm

Glorious Gardens of France to be presented by Rosemary Le Grand to Broadstone Horticultural Society at the War Memorial Hall, Tudor Road.

More info 01202 695873 or 01202 697241.

The Arts Society Wimborne & Blandford. An illustrated lecture on ‘The Shakers’ by John Ericson at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne. Visitors welcome.

For information visit www. theartssocietywandb.org.uk.

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around & about

Ferndown panto?

Oh yes there is!

Following their recent Christmas Special of Once Upon A Princess at the Barrington Theatre, the team at OCD Productions UK have been invited to produce Ferndown’s premier professional pantomime.

The theatre company will bring magic, music and mayhem to Ferndown in December 2020. The pantomime (title yet to be announced) will feature a cast of talented professional performers, glittering sets, stunning costumes, special effects, toe-tapping tracks and plenty of audience participation.

The production team will also be on the lookout for local young performers to star alongside the

professional cast.

Auditions will take place during the summer of 2020, giving children in the area the opportunity to take to the stage at the Barrington.

The announcement follows OCD Productions UK’s recent smash hit UK tour of Once Upon A Princess and producer Tracy Harris said, “We were thoroughly welcomed in Ferndown so we’re honoured to have been invited to produce the resident pantomime for 2020. It’s going to be magical!”

Music Appeal Foundation launched Wimborne Minster is launching Minster Makes Music – an appeal to help raise essential funds to repair and rebuild the organ, and to establish a Music Foundation, which will manage development of music in the Minster.

The aim of the Wimborne Minster Music Appeal is to keep the sound of music firmly in Wimborne Minster and at the heart of its community.

This year the Minster church is celebrating its 900th anniversary.

Andrew Curtis, chairman of the Wimborne Minster Music Appeal Committee, said, “The overall cost is currently estimated to be in the region of £1m and if the fundraising goes well, we envisage the work will commence in the autumn with

The Minster organ

completion in 2021.

“I would like to ask the community, individuals and businesses, to support us by making a commitment to your Minster church in any way you can, by making a donation, by creating a fundraising event, attending events, or by volunteering in some way. We will be very grateful for any support you can give us.”

The Minster Makes Music launch will take

place at Wimborne Minster on Friday 24 January, from 4-6pm.

If you would like to attend or receive more information please contact info@ minstermakesmusic. co.uk or jess@routepr. agency to register.

To find out more about the Minster Makes Music appeal, visit www. minstermakesmusic. co.uk or email fundraising@ minstermakesmusic. co.uk

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| 33

around & about / what’s happening in your area.

If I’m Honest what it means to be a man in 2020 A household name teetering on the brink of national treasure status, award-winning comedian Ed Byrne is coming to two local venues this year – The Pavilion in Bournemouth on 27 February and the Tivoli in Wimborne on 20 May. With 25 years under his belt, Ed has parlayed his on-stage success into a variety of notable television appearances.

A regular on Mock The Week and The Graham Norton Show, Ed has recently co-presented Dara & Ed’s Big Adventure and its followup Dara & Ed’s Road To Mandalay, and managed not to disgrace himself on Top Gear or whilst tackling one of The World’s Most Dangerous Roads. As a semiprofessional hill-walker and a humanist, he also brought a refreshing warmth and honesty to BBC2’s The Pilgrimage.

Having recently hit a new peak with shows such as the sublime Spoiler Alert and reflective Outside, Looking In, which explored the minefield that is modern parenting and a generational sense of entitlement, Ed’s new show If I’m Honest digs ever deeper into a father’s sense of responsibility, what it

means to be a man in 2020, and whether he possesses any qualities whatsoever worth passing on to his two sons.

Gender politics, for example, is something Ed readily engages with – deploying his customary comedic zeal.

He said, “I’ll admit that there are things where men get a raw deal. We have higher suicide rates, and we tend not to do well in divorces, but representation in action movies is not something we have an issue with.

“People who come to see me are not political activists necessarily, they’re regular folk. If you can make a point to them, in between talking about your struggles with ageing, or discussing your hernia operation or whatever it is, you can toss in something that does give people pause as regards to how men should share the

household chores.”

“I do genuinely annoy myself” The new show takes his natural tendency towards self-deprecation to unexpected extremes.

“I do genuinely annoy myself,” Ed concedes. “But the thing of your children being a reflection of you, gives you an opportunity to build something out

of the best of yourself only for you to then see flashes of the worst of yourself in them. It’s a wake-up call about your own behaviour.”

He insists that, while the show might have mordant and occasionally morbid aspects, it’s also not without its quietly triumphant moments.

“I thought I was being quite upbeat talking about the small victories,” he says. “You know, finding positivity in being able to spot when a cramp was about to happen in your leg and

dealing with it before it does. I was very happy with myself about that.”

Age, it seems, has not withered him.

Especially now that he’s figured out how to head off ailments before they become a problem.

“You see comics who are my age and older but are still retaining a level of ‘cool’ and drawing a young crowd. I can’t deny that I’m quite envious of that. But there’s also something very satisfying about your audience growing old with you.”

Win tickets to see comedian Ed Byrne For a chance to win two tickets to see Ed Byrne at either the Tivoli on 20 May or the Pavilion, Bournemouth on 27 February, answer the following question.

How long has Ed Byrne been in showbiz?

Enter at www.mags4dorset.co.uk or send your answer to the address on page three of this magazine. Closing date is 3 February 2020. The first two correct answers drawn will be the winners and the venues will be allocated by mags4dorset. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd or The Tivoli, Wimborne and Pavilion, Bournemouth 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 contact details will be passed to the venue or to the promoters for the purpose of allocating the tickets.

34 |

VIEWPOINT January 2020

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around & about

Back in time with Artsreach This year Dorset-based charity Artsreach celebrates 30 years of bringing professional live performances to rural communities across Dorset. Launched in March 1990, the first season featured just nine events in a handful of rural venues.

Now, 30 years later, the new Artsreach spring programme features more than 75 events from over 30 companies and performers set to visit 50 rural communities and perform in village halls, churches, pubs and other community spaces right across Dorset.

Artsreach is organising six professional performances in east Dorset in February and March.

8 February – WOR 7.30pm at Cranborne Memorial Hall. Tel 01725 517500.

WOR injects new energy into 18th century tunes from the Flanders region of Belgium. Instruments include saxophone, violin, bagpipes, accordion and guitar, and will shine an inventive spotlight with a modern twist on tunes from 300 years ago.

16 February – Peter Gill, The Wit and Songs of Noel Coward, 2pm, Alderholt Village Hall. Tel 01425 653766.

Through anecdote and song, pianist and entertainer, Peter Gill will remind us of Coward’s dazzling wit and perform such gems as Mad Dogs and Englishmen, A Bar on The Piccola Marina, Mrs Worthington and There Are Bad Times Just Around The Corner.

28 February – Scratchworks Theatre, WOMANS (like Romans, but with a ‘W’), 7.30pm, Sixpenny Handley Village Hall. Tel 07786 790349.

It’s 44BC. The Roman Senate has declared our hero, Leta, a traitor. She is given a punishment worse than death ‘Damnatio Memoriae’ – to be erased from history. But with the help from some unexpected muses, she decides to rebel against the Republic.

A feast for the eyes and the ears with physical comedy, clowning and original music, WOMANS is a raucous and hilarious tale of the first female resistance.

Scratchworks is an allfemale theatre ensemble from Devon.

14 March – The Cajun Roosters Trio, 7.30pm, Sturminster Marshall Memorial Hall. Tel 07903 057427. £9.

26 March – John Etheridge and Chris Garrick, 7.30pm, St John’s Church, Hinton Martel. Tel 01258 840066.

29 March, 7.30pm MINIMA - The Lodger, Alderholt Village Hall. Tel 01425 653766.

Full details and tickets from www.artsreach. co.uk and outlets including libraries, arts centres and tourist information centres.

Wimborne and Ferndown Lions Club delivered 72 Christmas food parcels containing 25 different items to local people who had been identified by social services, CABs and GPs. The bulk supplies were purchased from Morrisons in Verwood and the bags assembled at Verwood Hub.

Scratchworks will be at Sixpenny Handley Village Hall in February

Farce for the Big band jazz comes to New Year Wimborne Ferndown Drama is to stage Bedroom Farce at the Barrington Theatre, Ferndown from Wednesday 22 January to Saturday 25 January.

Trevor and Susannah, whose marriage is on the rocks, inflict their miseries on their nearest and dearest - three couples whose own relationships are tenuous at best. Taking place sequentially in the three beleaguered couples’ bedrooms during one endless Saturday night of co-dependence and dysfunction, beds, tempers, and domestic order are ruffled, leading all the players to a hilariously touching epiphany.

Directed by John Sivewright, the couples are played by Mike Andrews and Jenny Sibley, James Bournier and Kirsty Dixon, Peter Gutteridge and Dina Berlyn and Steve Hawker and Dawn Hollington.

Tickets at £9 from www. ticketsource.co.uk/ ferndown-drama or call the Barrington on 01202 894858, or buy at the door.

Wimborne Rotary is organising a special evening for big band fans with the return of their popular annual ‘Jazz at the Allendale’ charity concert.

This will take place on Monday 10 February at 7.30 pm at the Allendale Community Centre, Hanham Road, Wimborne.

Swing Unlimited Big Band will perform. Formed 20 years ago, their playlist includes classic and contemporary numbers featuring such greats as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Glenn Miller and Jools Holland.

Admission is free with tickets available at the doors, which open at 7pm, but these are restricted to a maximum of 300. There will be a retiring collection in aid of Wessex Young Musicians Trust and Rotary charities.

Organiser of the concert, Rotarian Darryl Reach said, “Apart from Jazz at the Allendale providing a top-rate event for the community’s enjoyment, it is also of significant benefit to needy charities, having so far raised more than £12,000 over the years.”

Swing Unlimited Big Band

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in the home / rejuvenate your home in 2020 .

Coins, jewellery and works of art sell well The many antiques programmes featured on TV are increasingly popular with viewers, so here at Viewpoint Magazine, we contacted a Ringwood auction house to find out what has been making the money locally and what the trends are as we enter 2020.

Last year, Ringwood

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Auctions saw a high demand across all sections, with particular emphasis on jewellery, silver and collectors’ items like postcards, coins, stamps and militaria.

One highlight, says auctioneer Claire Chalkley, was finding a Victorian gold £5 coin amongst a box of old pre-decimal currency.

VIEWPOINT January 2020

She said, “We sorted through the silver 3d and 6d pieces and a few half crowns before unwrapping a small envelope at the bottom of the box containing the gold coin, which pleasantly surprised the vendor - especially when it went on to sell for £2,100.”

In the past 15 months, the saleroom has sold three other large collections of gold and silver coins, which have fetched £12,100, £5,050 and £3,600 respectively.

Claire added, “Several other clients have also been pleasantly surprised when they have brought in ‘costume jewellery’ only to find it has been the real thing. Selling jewellery at auction has never been easier and with gold reaching high prices in 2019, many clients were delighted with their results, achieving much more than they expected, including one box of antique jewellery selling accumulatively

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in the home / rejuvenate your home in 2020 for over £6,000 including commissions.”

Other highlights from the year included being able to help a local charity in their fundraising efforts. A large painting of sunflowers by John Bratby was donated to Minstead Church in the New Forest and they were delighted when it fetched over £3,000

towards their appeal as Ringwood Auctions also waived their fees.

Claire said, “Auctions are also a wonderful place to buy furniture and decorative items. Whilst the price of ‘brown furniture’ is still relatively low, it does make buying period or modern furniture an affordable way to create an individual look at

home. Whereas in the past, people may have been too daunted to go to a furniture dealer to spend thousands of pounds on a Georgian chest of drawers, the same item can now be purchased at a local auction for a lot less.”

Ringwood Auctions began their sales programme on

11 January with a sale including jewellery, silver, works of art, collectables, furniture and other eclectic items. Their next sale will be on 1 February.

For information on buying or selling items at auction, please contact

the saleroom on 01425 480 178 or email info@ ringwoodauctions.co.uk You could improve your home in 2020 with a stunning work of art that will not only look good, but might prove to be a great investment.

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in the home / rejuvenate your home in 2020 .

Three ways to go green around the home in 2020 Pantone colour of the year is classic blue with a regal feel, and Dulux experts have come up with Tranquil Dawn – a milky sage that oozes serenity, but you can’t get away from the fact that the colour green symbolises life, renewal, harmony and growth. It could steal the limelight in 2020 as even more

green issues face us head on and make us want to have a closer understanding of the world around us.

If you’re thinking of splashing out with a bit of colour around your home in the New Year, try green. This colour is reminiscent of nature and the outdoors and serves as a reminder to

be more eco-friendly and sustainable where possible, as well as helping us to unwind and relax.

Interior style advisor, Rebecca Snowden, FurnitureChoice.co.uk, shares three ways to bring green into the home.

1. Use green as a feature wall colour Serene and soothing, green makes for a great feature wall colour.

From darker shades like emerald green to brighter hues like apple green, the colour offers many psychological benefits.

These include helping to induce relaxation and

Wiltshire dark wood table with storage

calmness, as well as giving off the emotions of optimism and growth.

Home offices can benefit from a green feature wall as it helps soothe tired eyes.

“Hobby Wood by Earthborn, an ecofriendly paint brand, is a bold woodland green that helps bring the outdoors in. Match with dark wood furniture for a classy, perennial look.” says Rebecca.

Sage green is a relaxing colour that’s perfect for a bedroom feature wall. It creates a

calm and airy atmosphere that’s light-hearted and uplifting. Light wood furnishing and natural materials complement the theme wonderfully.

Some other accessories and textures to consider are jute, leafy plants and candles for relaxation.

Where there are windows, choose sheer white curtains to allow sunlight in while maintaining some level of privacy. “The natural light will also cast a lovely glow on the sage green wall and give the colour a little pop,” she says.

Dorado white leather bed

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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in the home / rejuvenate your home in 2020

2. Neo mint as a lighter alternative On the pastel front, neo mint is set to be very fashionable in 2020. “It’s young, fresh, energetic great for pairing with an equally sunny colour like coral,” says Rebecca.

“Brighten up a small space or designate separate functional areas by way of colour blocked walls.”

Balance the boldness of neo mint walls with simple, neutral furniture like a white bed. Select furniture with slim legs and clean silhouettes to achieve a clean look.

Alternatively, layer on rugs and cushions within the same palette for a maximalist approach.

3. Live green plants

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Live green plants are the best accessories for decorating the home in shades of green. Some help clean the air and release more oxygen for easier breathing while others bear fruit for eating. Mix and match plants of different green shades for depth and interest in the home.

“Leafy, trailing plants inject a little wildness for an urban jungle feel while demure little succulents are adorable and easy to manage,” says Rebecca. “Plants are quick additions to the home that make a big impact on our wellbeing - a big focus for 2020.”

Bergamo solid oak double bed

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in the home / rejuvenate your home in 2020 .

I’m taking everything, including the kitchen sink!

By Janine Pulford

Did you know that when someone moves house in Germany, they often take their kitchen with them?

This may sound unbelievable because in the UK we have a reputation for installing the cheapest of the cheap and leaving it behind for the next person to cope with, or for them to rip it out and start again.

Alternatively, we spend a fortune on buying the kitchen of our dreams and when the time comes to move, we leave it behind for the next occupant

because a superb kitchen in the UK is considered a strong selling point.

Leaving your kitchen behind can sadly be ironic, because the most beautiful kitchen in your eyes, may not be so beautiful in the eyes of the new occupant, and if it is not to their taste, regardless of how new it is, they will pull it out and start again, which is a terrible waste.

So the Germans might have the right idea when they take everything including the kitchen sink when they move. Their kitchens are individual pieces of robustly built furniture, but also, one has to assume, relatively straightforward to dismantle and reinstall.

This is practical, not wasteful and makes good sense, but there must be occasions when a much-loved kitchen won’t translate into a different space. It also begs the question, what happens when the kitchen is out of date?

Widely recognised as the heart of the home, kitchens are very personal spaces, well worth investing in if you are intending to stay in your home for a number of years.

Our mismatched kitchen at home is over

30 years old and welloverdue for a refit and though we will shop around, our decision will probably be ruled by our hearts, and what we like and what we are prepared to live with. We may even consider investing in a robust German kitchen, but I know for sure that when we move, we will not be taking it with us.

The moral of the tale (if you are expecting one), is when buying a new

kitchen, purchase the best quality you can afford and choose the kitchen for you, not for somebody else.

And though I am not advocating a new trend of packing up everything including the kitchen sink when you move, it may become something our families have to think about in the future when the economic climate forces us to stringently reuse and recycle.

Family business supports MIND charity event Kris and his wife Sophia own their family-run Tile and Bathroom Showroom in Ringwood, and when approached by a bathroom sales associate for sponsorship, in aid of his MIND charity event, they leaped at the opportunity to do their bit in supporting the cause.

Sophia has experienced dealing with mental health matters in the past, particularly from a carer’s perspective, and for a number of years when a close relative became affected by poor mental health.

She relates to her experience first-hand: “I know I am among many who share the view that mental health is as important as any other health factor. We live in a challenging and quite often relentless world with so many types of influences aimed at us all.

What Stuart Pollard is attempting (and I have every faith he will succeed!) in Everesting a local hill in his hometown of Somerset, is an outstanding effort embracing both the physical and mental aspect of something very challenging in memory of his mum.

I would urge people to read his JustGiving page – if not only to gain an understanding of what Everesting is and of course to acknowledge a mental health story and MIND, the fantastic charity working to help raise awareness, and those in need.

“Mental health affects all of us in some way and so raising awareness and helping one another is key to identifying those at risk before it is sometimes too late. If we don’t have each other – what do we have after all?”

You can read Stuart Pollard’s story here www.justgiving.com/ fundraising/1man1bike1mind Kris, Sophia and their team welcome both retail and trade customers to their Ringwood Tile and Bathroom Showroom ‘Tile Emporium Ringwood’ on Castleman Way where you will find ‘everything tiles & bathrooms’ as well as free samples, free parking and complimentary hot drinks. www.tileemporiumringwood.co.uk

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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in the home / rejuvenate your home in 2020

Vegan home décor as pricey as you like!

Switching to a vegan diet is a New Year’s resolution you may have made by taking up the Veganuary challenge.

But as well as diet, there are other aspects that need to change for your lifestyle to be 100% vegan.

Home décor is one of the more forgotten areas, but turning your home vegan doesn’t need to put a dent in your bank account. Going to a wellknown local store is likely to be your first option, and they may well be able to supply or source vegan items for you.

As increasing numbers of individuals switch to a more animal-friendly way of living, large companies are making changes too.

Bentley Motors will be offering vegan leather in their vehicles. And Wimborne-based luxury brand Alexander Joseph, will be using a vegan leather to create bespoke lampshades for their new, British made, limited-

Stunning one-off lamp, Mullienr, will be offered for sale in late January for circa £23,000. The owner is likely to be a Bentley enthusiast or a super yacht owner. www.alexanderjoseph.co.uk

edition cordless lamps.

To mark 100 years of Bentley Motor Cars, Alexander Joseph has collaborated with dMark Concepts of Blandford to create a stunning one-off lamp. Named Mulliner, the nickel body has been pillowed by hand, and the lampshade is made from the finest vegan leather, hand stitched with the quilted diamond-shape synonymous with Bentley

and Mulliner.

Alexander Joseph’s managing director, Mark Robinson said, “We wanted to pay tribute to a great British brand, but in a way that recognised modern principals, including the use of ethical materials.

Mulliner took five months to create, representing around 900 hours of labour. We are particularly proud to say it is a carbon neutral product.”

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specialist services / who to contact for the service you need.

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specialist services HEATING SPECIALISTS

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YOUR ADVERT HERE IN THE NEXT ISSUE call 01202 941465

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LETTERS to the

EDITOR

Ringwood traffic flow

Thank you to local people

broken?

The Ringwood Branch of the Royal British Legion would like to say ‘thank you’ to the people of Ringwood, Bransgore, Sopley and all the local community, shops and businesses for their support for the Annual Poppy Appeal. This started outside The Ringwood Gateway on Saturday 26 October with a presentation of the ‘first’ Poppy to Councillor Tony Ring, Mayor of Ringwood, by personnel from 165 Port and Maritime RLC Sqn. Blighmount Army Reserve.

There was some concern that, after the huge support received during the Centenary Appeal last year, it would be a hard act to follow –­but we shouldn’t underestimate your generosity; this year to date you have already raised £24,705.77.

Thank you so much.

The winners of the raffle - tickets being sold via the Poppy Gazebo – were Jenny for the hippo and Eric for the teddy bear.

A special thank you to Waitrose, who on one of the worst days of wind and rain, allowed the appeal to continue inside the store – warm and dry.

Geoff Oliver Verwood

Val Aldridge Poppy Appeal organiser

Re your article (Viewpoint Vol.44, Issue 2) on car park traffic flow, this has been a problem since day one when the entrance and exit were reversed. At the time ‘locals’ like me could not understand the decision to change a logical entrance and exit for one, which conflicted with the traffic flow as now. The comment by Cllr Day that cars do not use the space when queuing to turn either left or right is of course quite true but then it is probably only one in 10 cars which turn left. I am at a loss to understand how this would affect the egress either.

As for the final paragraph of your article that the problem may be eased by the closure of West Street may be so, although I doubt it, it is the last part which suggests the traffic flow on Meeting House Lane may be reversed. Will this be another case of trying to ‘fix’ something which is not

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

Why I am standing down I am today (18 December 2019) announcing that I have taken the difficult decision not to stand for re-election in May 2020 for a third term as Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) for Dorset.

Why am I standing down? Well, after 40 years of public service, I now feel that a change of direction is called for in my life. After two terms as the PCC for Dorset I am moving on to pastures new. I am keen to identify new challenges and new opportunities at a local and national level, and to build on my local charity work, and my role as a Lay Canon for the Salisbury Diocese.

There is no doubt about it. My seven years working with Dorset Police has been eventful. I feel I can leave with my head held high. I was the first ever PCC for Dorset, and I took up the role at a critical time for policing. I am proud I kept my independence and was able to work across political parties for the good of the people of Dorset.

Sadly, I also took over the reins at the start of austerity and I oversaw the Force into sustained cuts. I am pleased to now be leading them back out again with the Chief Constable, James Vaughan.

In 2012, the Force’s youngest police officer was 25 years old, as the Force had not recruited since 2008. Austerity was bedding in. PCSO numbers were under threat, as were police officer numbers. The Marine Section was being disbanded. The Victims Bureau, Cadet Scheme, Rural Crime and Drone Teams were all still in the ether, as was the Strategic Alliance (with Devon & Cornwall Police), Cyber Dogs and Community Speed Watch. Mental Health dominated the policing landscape.

Seven years later, with reduced numbers, increased workload, and the Force well on its way to achieving ‘outstanding’ in policing vulnerability, the Force has achieved 10 out of 10 ‘good’ ratings from the HMICFRS Inspectorate. As austerity comes to an end, mental health demand is still there but has changed in nature.

None of us know what the new Government has in store for policing, but I do know I leave Dorset Police as a good organisation that punches above its weight. Having said that, I have five months of office remaining, and there is much more to do. I will continue to focus on the job at hand and will be publishing a review of my second term. Please look out for it, and in the meanwhile I thank my team for all that they do, and you, not only for your support over the past seven years, but also for your continued support of Dorset Police.

Martyn Underhill Police and Crime Commissioner

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motoring / keeping you on the road.

See and be seen this winter Although we have now passed the shortest day, we have several more months to cope with dark evenings.

GEM Motoring Assist, which is the trade name of the road safety association The Guild of Experienced Motorists, is urging all road users to make themselves bright and visible on journeys.

Making an effort to see and be seen could prove a life-saving decision, says GEM. Drivers should ensure they check that lights are working properly and should keep them clean. Lights and visible

clothing are vital for cyclists too; lights should be positioned and angled correctly for maximum effect. Pedestrians should wear or carry something fluorescent or bright, such as a jacket or armband, to ensure other road users can see them.

GEM road safety officer Neil Worth said, “Too many drivers think the automatic light settings mean they don’t need to worry about switching on or off, while others don’t even know all the various lights on their car, let alone when to use them properly.

“Your lights are vital

for your safety and the safety of others. Not only do they help you see more clearly on the road, they also provide information to other road users about where you are and where you intend to go. So, we encourage you to spend a few minutes checking what happens with your car’s light settings, especially if the car is relatively new to you.

“So please check your lights, clean your lights and use your lights appropriately, as this will make a big difference in reducing their risk of a collision.”

Minibus drivers urgently needed The Avonway Community Centre in Fordingbridge owns and operates a Mercedes Sprint minibus, which provides specialist transport for a variety of clubs and activities using Avonway, as well as for other local organisations. The minibus can carry wheelchairs as ambulant passengers and has a tail lift providing easy access for the less able.

Drivers are urgently required. Duties are agreed up to four months in advance to allow for planning ahead. Why not join the team and take on a new responsibility in 2020?

Contact 01425 652706 for details or email enquiries@avonway.org.

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VIEWPOINT January 2020

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