Viewpoint April 2021

Up in arms over Dorset Council Local Plan

Cannon Hill Plantation © Louis Pulford

Mid April 2021 Volume 45, Issue 6

Charity of the Year

Fly-tipping and litter ruin the countryside

Your Independent Local Magazine Established Over 40 Years | ISSN 2397-7183 (print) | ISSN 2397-7191 (online) VERWOOD | RINGWOOD | FORDINGBRIDGE | WEST MOORS | WIMBORNE | FERNDOWN | ASHLEY HEATH | ST IVES | ALDERHOLT

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

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VIEWPOINT

Volume 45 • Issue 6 • April 2021

Dear readers

Picture of the month

VIEWPOINT

The crisp white tablecloth covering the table was adorned with a modest candelabra and a small vase of flowers, and household staff laid out an enticing array of cold meats, salads, artisan bread and fine wines.

Well, that might be the picnic of my dreams, but in reality my recent ones have constituted a cheese and pickle or egg sandwich and a cup of coffee in an insulated mug whilst sitting on a park bench.

Picnics – the word comes from the French words piquenique - became popular from the beginning of the 19th century, but in recent years had declined in popularity. However the gradual lifting of Covid-19 restrictions has enabled us to rediscover the enjoyment of eating out in scenic open spaces. And I’m sure I don’t need to stress that it is vital that we all take our litter home, which sadly hasn’t been happening in some beauty spots recently.

Picnics were the norm in my childhood with preparing for a day at the seaside being something of a ritual, and my late father considered he was the only one in the family capable of producing the right kind of fare.

There would be one pack of sandwiches for mid morning, another for lunch, cake for mid-afternoon, and at least two flasks, one containing tea, the other coffee – plus cold drinks.

We would trudge along the beach looking for a good spot, laden with numerous bags, plus rugs and chairs, looking like packhorses - but it was all part of the fun.

The picnic experiences of our readers may be rather grander than mine, but we would like to hear about them.

Write in to: newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk.

Marilyn Barber

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

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@mags4dorset.co.uk

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

How to contact us 01202 870270

Simon Thornton account manager simon@mags4dorset.co.uk

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ADVERTISING Mark Beechey account manager mark@mags4dorset.co.uk

News editor

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

Swan aerobics on the Stour © Danny Howe

LOGISTICS Mike Talbot

Copy date 26 APRIL 2021

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.dorsetview.co.uk

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Fly-tipping on the increase during lockdown It probably won’t have escaped your notice that the number of instances of fly-tipping across the county during lockdown was on in the increase. Dorset View’s cover photo was taken

by the magazine’s creative director, Louis Pulford, who discovered this fly-tip at the entrance to Cannon Hill Woods off Uddens Drive.

At the beginning of the year,

fly-tipped waste was reported an average of five times per day. Waste left on roads and pavements accounted for 60 per cent of incidents reported, while 18 per cent of fly-tips happened on footpaths and bridleways.

People are advised that their waste is their responsibility until it is properly disposed

of, and should ensure they use a reputable waste carrier if handing their rubbish to someone for disposal.

Fly-tips can be reported via either the Dorset Council or BCP Council websites.

Fly-tipping is not the only eyesore across Dorset – see the report on page six for your reaction to litter on our verges.

Dorset Local Plan meets with opposition from town and parish councils

By Marilyn Barber | newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk The response from town and parish councils in east Dorset to the draft Dorset Local Plan can be summed up in two words – strong objections.

The Local Plan target is to build 39,285 homes (excluding possible further development in Alderholt, Gillingham and Wool), in the period to 2038 - an additional 8,804 homes more than the Government’s target based on the standard methodology.

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It isn’t possible in this publication to highlight all the concerns from the submissions, so we have identified a number of salient points, including a suggestion from four councillors that a new town should be established in Dorset to fulfil housing needs.

There are also proposals to build on two golf courses.

Continued on page 30

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Dead birds of prey and firearm found in East Dorset Following the discovery of a dead red kite, the police, together with other agencies carried out a warrant at a property in East Dorset.

Using powers under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, police discovered pesticides, dead birds of prey and a firearm at a rural property in East Dorset.

On 18 March officers, accompanied by the Police National Wildlife Crime Unit (NWCU), Natural England and RSPB, attended an address in rural East Dorset, where a number of dead birds of prey and several pesticides, including banned substances, were found as well as a firearm.

Police Constable Claire Dinsdale, lead wildlife crime officer for Dorset Police said

“If a dead bird of prey is located and you are not sure whether it is suspicious or not, still report it to police immediately. We can access assistance from vets to examine and x-ray birds and submit them for forensic testing, therefore ruling out natural causes. Police can

access forensic funding for such wildlife crime cases.”

Call 999 to report a wildlife crime in progress, or 101 to report a suspicious finding.

Non-urgent reports can be emailed to 101@dorset.pnn. police.uk or logged online at www.dorset.police.uk/do-itonline/.

that nationally “the persecution of birds of prey sadly continues in the UK.” She said, “A great deal of work has already been done by police and partner organisations but still there are those who think they are above the law. The deliberate killing of birds of prey will not be tolerated. We have had previous cases in Dorset of illegal shooting and trapping as well as poisoning.

“I would urge the public to be vigilant and report dead birds of prey to police. Clear evidence of a wildlife crime, such as an illegal trap, shooting or suspected poison bait should be reported immediately to police without delay. A ‘What Three Words’ location or grid reference is really useful.

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“Embarrassed to live in Dorset”

By Janine Pulford

Have you lost pride in Dorset due to the excessive amount of litter on roadside verges?

When discussing the subject recently on Dorset View’s social media sites, residents agreed that the volume of litter on roadside verges

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

is shameful.

“Our county is disgraceful,” said Jacqueline Moss who has reported the litter problem to

Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) and Dorset councils.

Although both councils recently cleaned the A338 spur road, the work was long overdue.

Just days before the clean up, Eleonora Hazel called the spur road “a tip.”

Councillor Jill Haynes, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Customer and Community Services, said that arranging litter picking on high-speed roads takes a great deal of planning and some activities had been “delayed due to the challenges presented by the pandemic.”

The A338 had to be closed in both directions while crews removed the litter. Dorset Council said approximately 240 bags of litter were collected.

Just two days after the big clean up, the litterlouts had returned. An inspection of the spur road by a Dorset View reporter revealed several items of litter strewn along the southbound carriageway, with noticeably more on the

northbound carriageway where some detritus looked as if it had blown off commercial vehicles.

James Potten, business partner – Place Communications & Engagement Team, Dorset Council said, “It’s evident some of the roadside rubbish we pick has come from unsecured loads from industrial/commercial vehicles, but the principle is the same as if someone litters from a car or van. Any waste that gets discarded incorrectly – purposely or not – is treated as litter and the driver is liable to enforcement action.”

Other litter hotspots pointed out by residents include Christchurch bypass and the road between Canford Bottom roundabout and West Moors. Three Legged Cross to West Moors Road was called a “favoured dumping ground”

by Judie Jones.

The A31 was criticised heavily with the section from the Lidl roundabout in Ferndown to the industrial estate called “awful” by Kathy Allen.

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Commercial waste strewn around a roundabout on the A31

Elsewhere in Ferndown the story is the same: “KFC litter… packaging and food thrown in roads around Ferndown.

Noticeably Woodside Road and Ringwood Road,” said Warren Brown.

And Pauline Smith said, “I walked along Ringwood Road as far as McDonalds. The amount of rubbish along that section was disgusting.”

Wendy Coldrick said she was “embarrassed to live in Dorset.”

Not all the roads in Dorset come under the responsibility of Dorset Council. Christchurch bypass for instance is BCP’s responsibility, as is the largest part of the A338.

Both councils point out that the litter isn’t created by them, but by motorists who discard rubbish illegally.

Cllr Mark Anderson, portfolio holder for Environment, Cleansing and Waste, BCP Council said, “Unfortunately, there is always a lot of litter dumped on the roadside by drivers who seem unaware of their contribution to soil and water pollution.”

He said the council wanted people “to be proud to live in this area” and to encourage people “not to drop litter.”

Instances of littering and fly tipping are treated “very

seriously” said Cllr Anderson.

Dorset Council is continuing its fight against roadside litter. Overnight litter picking on the A31 from the River Stour to the county boundary is scheduled for April.

Councillor Jill Haynes said there were not the resources to litter pick every verge in the council area adding, “We focus our attention on the busiest A roads, which need strict health and safety considerations.”

She thanked volunteers and community groups for their continued efforts to keep rural verges litter free.

Dorset Council is supporting this year’s #LoveYourVerge campaign, which will see ‘pop-up’ signage on roadsides across Dorset to encourage residents and visitors to value verges and other open spaces.

The collaborative campaign is between the council’s Greenspace Service and Litter Free Dorset.

Residents should report litter problems, fly-tipping and rubbish being thrown from a vehicle online on their local council’s website. Continued pressure to prosecute could bring about change.

To comment on this article write to letters@dorsetview.co.uk

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L-R Brothers Louis and Ben Pulford

Taking on the Dorset Three Peaks

Ben and Louis Pulford will be taking on the challenge of scaling Dorset’s three peaks, plus walking a marathon in one day, in support of Pulford Publicity’s charity of the year, Diverse Abilities.

Diverse Abilities is Dorset’s disability charity, supporting adults and children with profound physical and learning disabilities. As with many charities, the pandemic has taken its toll on fundraising over the past year, so the organisation is looking forward to getting people together to take up a challenge and add some much-needed funds to the coffers.

During the event, Ben and Louis will trek to the top of Lewesdon Hill, Pilsdon Pen and Bulbarrow Hill, covering a marathon distance of 26.2 miles across the Wessex Ridgeway and ascending more than 1,530m in a single day - that’s taller than Ben Nevis.

Both are looking forward to the challenge, and feel that now is the right time as they have been taking advantage of the opportunity to walk during lockdown.

If you would like to support Ben and Louis in their fundraising efforts, go to www.justgiving.com/fundraising/louis-ben-pulford

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

Reduce your food waste, help combat climate change and save money

By Dorset Council Waste Services At a time when we’re all trying are a good rule of thumb when to play our part in tackling estimating quantities required. climate change, there’s one Store food correctly – food easy action we can take – and lasts longer if stored in the it will also save us money. right places. Bread is best The edible food we throw stored in its original packaging away contributes to climate in a cupboard or in a bread bin, change. We are wasting not not the fridge. Potatoes should only the food, but the valuable be kept in a breathable bag/ resources that have gone into sack (not plastic packaging) creating it too - from fertilisers and stored in a cool, dark and water that was used for place. growing it, to the greenhouse Get the best use out of your gases created from its fridge/freezer – setting your production and transportation. fridge down to five degrees will Here are some handy tips keep food fresher for longer. to reduce your food waste: Freezing what you won’t eat is Get your portions right – like pressing the pause button. it’s very easy to cook too much All kinds of foods can be pasta and rice. Obviously frozen, right up to the use-by appetites differ, but a quarter date, including milk and bread. of a standard mug of uncooked For more hints and tips visit rice or two generous handfuls www.lovefoodhatewaste.com of uncooked pasta per person

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Pulford Publicity’s

Charity of the Year

Spring is well and truly on the way – don’t these brighter days make such a wonderful difference? I don’t know about your working from home set ups, but I’m looking directly out of the window from my desk to blue, albeit slightly cloudy, skies.

A year on from the first case in Dorset and the beginning of lockdown, and we’re all feeling rather reflective, while also optimistic about what’s to come.

At the beginning of lockdown number one, we launched a new campaign called #GrowTogether. This encouraged people to make a donation and send seeds of hope to others they were unable to see due to isolation.

As we head towards what looks like the end of all this, we’ve decided to bring it back. Send seeds of hope now, and fingers crossed we can all enjoy the

colourful flowers together in the summer.

Seeds can be ordered at diverseabilities.org.uk/ growtogether There’s even the option to send seeds to someone you’ve not yet met and our team of fundraisers and volunteers will deliver them to local care homes and community groups, as well as to the people we support.

If you’re looking for another way to get involved and spread some colour, we’ve shifted the date of Dorset Neon Run slightly, so it’ll now be taking place on Saturday 22 May – head to dorsetneonrun.com if you want to get involved, we’d love to have you there.

For now, keep smiling, we’ll all get through this together.

Cat and the team at Diverse Abilities

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Recognition for Ferndown Community Support The founders of Ferndown Community Support, which was established initially as Ferndown Community Coronvirus Support at the start of the pandemic, have been recognised for the work they have done over the past year.

The group was presented with a certificate by George Streatfeild, High Sheriff of Dorset from 2020-21, to honour the efforts of the volunteers and donators involved.

The group, which has around 250 volunteers, has helped almost 300 residents, coordinating shopping and prescription deliveries for people who have had to self-isolate. It has also organised other activities to keep people motivated during the pandemic.

The group has plans beyond the pandemic, with the launch of a food bank next on its list of ambitions.

Hannah Hobbs-Chell, one of the directors said, “We were absolutely honoured and delighted to be nominated and to receive the award.

There have been so many in our community who have volunteered and selflessly given to the community,

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Apply for West Moors grants West Moors Town council is accepting applications for its two grant schemes designed to help young people.

The Apprentice and Vocational Training Grant Scheme is open to those aged 16 to 20 years to assist with the purchase of tools or equipment needed to undertake an apprenticeship or vocational training. The award is for up to £250.

The Jean Ware Legacy Award is open to young people aged 11-17 years who are excelling in a sports or arts field. The award is for up to £1,000 to provide financial support as they train.

More information and application forms can be found at www.westmoors-pc.gov.uk, or call 01202 864004 or email office@westmoors-pc.gov.uk.

Does your garden make you smile? and this award recognises the huge collective effort of all. It was perhaps poignant, though purely by chance, that we were presented this award on our one year anniversary of the start of our group.”

To find out more about Ferndown Community Support, or to volunteer, visit www.ferndowncommunity coronavirussupport.org.uk

Why not enter the West Moors Eco-Garden of Wonder competition and spread the joy?

The competition is now open. All shapes, styles and sizes of garden are eligible, as long as they fit in with the terms and conditions.

There is a £40 national gardening voucher for the winner of each class.

The deadline for entries is 2 July 2021.

Judging will take place 7 July, by an independent experienced judge, Mrs Lyn Ovens.

For terms and conditions, and an entry form, see www.westmoors-tc.gov.uk, email office@ westmoors-pc.gov.uk or call 01202 861044.

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Alcoholics Anonymous responds New Forest and Hampshire County to increased calls to helpline Alcoholics Anonymous has seen a rise in people seeking help to stop drinking since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In the first quarter of 2020, there was an increase in calls to their helpline and online services of more than 35 per cent, and a rise of 15 per cent in the second quarter, compared to the previous year.

AA’s message is don’t suffer alone. If you have a desire to stop drinking, you can call and talk to an alcoholic in recovery and can ask for an AA member in your area to contact you to help you find AA meetings.

During the first lockdown, AA meetings went online.

Some meetings have now opened up in Covid-secure venues, however those which are not still able to open physically remain open online.

If you, or someone you know, is experiencing problems with alcohol and wants help, contact Alcoholics Anonymous on 0800 9177 650, email help@ aamail.org or visit the Chat Now service at www.alcoholicsanonymous.org.uk.

Show cancelled

Organisers of the New Forest and Hampshire County Show have made the difficult decision to cancel the 2021 event that was due to take place on the 27, 28 and 29 July at New Park, Brockenhurst.

They unanimously agreed they had no option but to cancel the 2021 event due to ongoing uncertainties surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic. Next year’s event will go ahead at the end of July 2022.

Anyone who would like to help secure the future of the New Forest Show is encouraged to do so by donating to the Centenary fund. Donations can be made online via the New Forest Show website.

Dorset business sets up charitable foundation to help get kids into sport The Laceeze Foundation is a charitable initiative created by Emma Burke and Paula Henley, the founders of Laceeze bands (the innovative product that stops kids’ laces coming undone during sport). The foundation aims to encourage children from underprivileged backgrounds into sport, by donating funds to those who would be unable to participate in their chosen activity without financial assistance.

Participating in sport has been proven time and time again to help with physical

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

health, mental wellbeing and individual development.

However the sad fact is that sport isn’t always accessible to those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

As a company founded by two mothers, Emma and Paula are incredibly passionate about getting kids into sport, which is why they want to help.

Laceeze will donate 25p from every sale of Laceeze bands sold directly through its website. To find out more visit: www.laceeze.co.uk/pages/ laceeze-foundation

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verwood news

Rotarians learn about WWII heroine Members of Verwood Rotary joined their fellow Rotarians from Fordingbridge, via Zoom, for a talk by Jeremy Prescott, who delivered a presentation on Violette Szabo and how she was awarded the George Cross posthumously, having been executed by the Germans at Ravensbruck Concentration Camp in early 1945.

Jeremy described Violette’s childhood and time in the Women’s Land Army and the Auxiliary Territorial

Service (ATS), and how she married before being sent off to France as an agent, as part of the SOE (Special Operations Executive).

Once she had joined the SOE, she underwent concentrated, highly focussed, arduous training and several missions before capture in Nazi-occupied France and interrogation.

Violette was the subject of the novel Carve Her Name with Pride, which was made into a film in 1958.

Purple Haze public consultation

Hampshire County Council is in receipt of the planning application from Grundon Sand & Gravel for the development of the Purple Haze site near Verwood.

Public consultation for the development, which involves mineral extraction from the site, began on 30 March, with public notices due to be erected around Moors Valley.

The public consultation area has been extended from 100 metres to 750 metres from the site boundary. An additional week has been added to the statutory consultation period to cover the Easter period, which will run until 21 May. For all planning information, see www.planning.hants.gov.uk, reference HCC/2021/0144.

Work begins on Lidl site

Hoardings have been erected around the site designated for the new Verwood Lidl store, which was granted planning permission in September 2020.

As yet, there is no opening date for the store, which will be situated on Ringwood Road opposite the petrol station, and on the site of the current caravan outlet.

The Mayor of Verwood, Cllr Matthew Parker, has welcomed Emma Payne, the new youth worker in charge of the Verwood Youth and Community Centre. Emma has joined the team to manage the newly refurbished Youth and Community Centre which Verwood Town Council recently took over from Dorset Council.

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

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.

- Advertisement feature -

Good Oaks East Dorset Help for military veterans fighting loneliness to pay for home adaptations With the roadmap set out, and more than half of the adult population having received the first dose of their Covid vaccination, it feels for many as though life has the beginnings of ‘normality’ reappearing.

This is, however, far from true for many elderly, vulnerable and isolated individuals.

At Good Oaks East Dorset, the mission is to ensure no one

feels alone.

Delivering outstanding care through bespoke, tailored services and packages including livein or visiting care, they are experts in providing companionship and support for individuals and couples alike.

The team, who have all received their vaccination and have weekly Covid testing, work with clients to provide whatever it is you need to stay safe, cared for and independent in your own home. They are there to help you through the easing of national restrictions, as well as help with day-to-day activities, with empathy, dedication and integrity.

If you’re a military veteran with a mobility issue, you might be able to get financial help.

The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a means-tested payment for people with physical disabilities who want to make adaptations at home.

Unfortunately, many veterans find they are turned down for it because of their military pension. But there is another route.

The armed forces charity SSAFA have case workers all over the UK who can advise you on what help is available. Look at the SSAFA website

or call their Forcesline on 0800 260 6767.

Charlie Symcox, director of bathroom adaptations company AHM Installations, spent 12 years in the Royal Navy and is now a Reserve.

“We’re a family-run company with a military history, so veterans are close to our hearts,” he said. “We’ve installed many accessible bathrooms with SSAFA and we offer discounts for veterans.”

For advice about your bathroom call AHM on 01425 200476.

For further information call 01202 065261.

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

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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.

- Advertiser's announcement -

Oakhouse Foods Dorset feeds local community throughout the pandemic Mark and Julia took over at Oakhouse Foods Dorset in October 2019, and reflected on the last year since the first lockdown began.

“We never imagined how important its services to the community would become.”

The demand for home delivery food has been unprecedented.

The provision for services such as Oakhouse Foods Dorset provides were a lifeline for the most vulnerable members of the community who were having to shield, enabling them to safely receive healthy, frozen ready-made meals and groceries.

“The sudden rise in new customers meant we doubled our staff numbers within the first few weeks of the pandemic. Our strict procedures to ensure the safety of our staff and customers have meant that we’ve safely been able to deliver over 400,000 meals since the first

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

lockdown began,” Mark said.

Julia explained how their services extended beyond frozen food deliveries for some of their customers. “Sometimes the call to order their food is the only time they speak to someone that day. Now we’ve made it a priority to identify those who are lonely and isolated and ensure that we contact them regularly.

Those calls often turn in to a good old chinwag!”

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Dog shows and time travel?

Everyday living at Care UK Residents of Care UK’s Dorset care homes, The Potteries and Ferndown Manor, have been living each day to the full during lockdown, doing everything from fundraising to time travel.

At The Potteries, the residents are keen dog lovers and have been selecting their favourite pooches in a virtual dog show. There have been arts and crafts sessions, baking, and fundraising for Comic Relief. And the home’s own pub, the Lockdown Arms, has been open for drinks.

Food has been a big theme at both homes recently, thanks to Care UK’s Food for Thought initiative. Tastes and aromas can be an instant way to reconnect with the past, particularly for people living with dementia, so the kitchen teams have been recreating dishes from the 1950s and ‘60s for residents to enjoy.

Best of all, in-room family visits have been able to restart at both homes. This has brought residents and loved ones together again.

To find out more about care at The Potteries in Broadstone, call 01202 070756, or for care at Ferndown Manor in Ferndown, call 01202 070776.

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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.

- Advertiser’s announcement -

Welcoming visitors to Netley Court Following the latest government guidelines, Netley Court is delighted to once again to be able to show you its wonderful facilities in person, as well as virtual tours.

The health, safety and wellbeing of its residents, team members, families and friends continues to be the number one priority, so visits are in strict accordance with government and Public Health England guidelines.

The Wellbeing Welcome for new residents is a bespoke 14-day settling in programme, exploring likes and dislikes, personal routines and preferences as well as providing a variety of activities.

Members of the Cinnamon team including the manager, care and hospitality teams, activity co-ordinator and chef will also spend time getting to know you so that all aspect of the care provided can be personalised.

New residents can nominate one designated visitor who will be able to visit for up to two hours per day for the first 14 days.

All residents can now nominate one dedicated person who can visit regularly inside the home. This will require the visitor to be tested with a lateral flow test prior to visiting. In addition, outdoor visits and visits in a dedicated visiting room, where the resident and one visitor are separated by a substantial screen, can take place without the need for lateral flow testing.

Hospital charities join forces Bournemouth Hospital Charity and Poole Hospital Charity have come together to create University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity.

Debbie Anderson, head of charity, said, “The newly formed charity will enable us to support a wider range of fundraising and provide even more support across all three hospital sites.”

Supporters will still be able to donate to a ward, department, or hospital of their choice across Poole, Royal Bournemouth, or Christchurch.

For more information or to arrange your personalised visit, contact Kathryn on 02380 984017 or email netley.haa@cinnamoncc.com.

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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.

A shot in the arm

by Julian Hewitt, Fordingbridge Museum

Having recently had my first vaccination against Covid-19, I’ve been thinking about the history of vaccination.

We normally associate the first effective vaccination with Edward Jenner in the 1790s. However, a process called variolation was used many years before in China, India, the Ottoman Empire and Africa. It involved deliberately giving someone infected puss from a mild case of smallpox, which could provide protection from a more severe infection.

The wife of the British ambassador to Turkey, Lady Mary Montague, had seen it practiced there in the 1720s. A smallpox victim herself, she had her own children treated and later, back in England, persuaded Caroline, Princess of Wales to have her own children inoculated.

After that it became fashionable for the aristocracy to have their children treated.

Smallpox, like the Black Death, had been a mass killer from the beginning of recorded history. It starts with a rash which develops into puss-filled blisters and can result in disfiguration, blindness and death.

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

Edward Jenner was a family doctor in the small Gloucestershire village of Berkeley.

He noticed that milkmaids who became infected with cow pox, a much milder disease than smallpox, seemed to be immune to smallpox. In 1796, he took cow pox puss from milkmaid Sarah Nelmes and put it into a scratch on the arm of eight year old James Phipps, the son of his gardener. When he later put smallpox puss into his arm, James did not contract the disease. Jenner repeated the experiment with other local children, including his own son, with the same results. He immediately began to publicise his discovery. He became internationally known and when, in 1807 during the war against France, he wrote to Napoleon asking for the release of two of his friends who were prisoners of war, Napoleon said, “What this man asks is not to be refused.”

Jenner believed that the vaccine should be given free to everyone and ran

regular clinics in his garden summer house for local villagers.

As with the Covid vaccine, there was some opposition. In 1802 the satirist James Gillray painted a picture of smallpox inoculation taking place showing the vaccinated with cows bursting out of various parts of their bodies. When, in 1898 the government brought in a law to make smallpox vaccine compulsory the Anti-Compulsory Vaccine League was formed to support those who had a moral or religious objection to the vaccine. A cartoon also appeared in the satirical magazine, Punch, showing a skeletal figure with a scythe captioned ‘Triumph of De-Jenner-ation.’

With the invention of microscopes and the development of germ theory, vaccines have been developed for a wide range of killer diseases including tuberculosis, measles, rubella, tetanus, polio, diphtheria, rabies and meningitis. So when you get your Covid vaccine, remember that the word vaccination comes from vacca, the Latin word for cow and give thanks to the obscure country doctor Edward Jenner.

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ringwood news

NEWS IN BRIEF Improvements to West Street Work in West Street Ringwood has commenced and the junction with the A31 has been closed and the direction of flow in Meeting House Lane reversed. Some drivers have not been complying with the signage, and at the Fish Inn in particular, further measures had to be put in place.

Weed removal Highways England has funded the removal of weeds from the central reservation of Mansfield Road in Ringwood between the roundabout under the A31 and the main town roundabout.

Thumbs up for Ringwood events Ringwood Town Council is hoping that the fireworks and Christmas events will be able to go ahead this year.

New homes proposed New Forest District Council has received an application for the development of up to 491 homes on land off Moortown Lane, Ringwood.

Success for New Forest festival The first New Forest Awakening Festival has been declared a success after it reached a digital audience of 815,000 people. There were 28 virtual events.

Hampshire farmers’ market to return The Hampshire farmers’ market will return on 24 April from 10am-2pm. It will take place either in the Furlong courtyard or at the Gateway depending on the number of stalls.

- Advertisement feature -

Forest Edge Solicitors – there when you need them Another month passes and we are now very much embracing the longer days and warmer weather. Restrictions are slowly easing and a more normal way of life is returning.

Forest Edge Solicitors is continuing to offer ongoing support on a variety of legal areas in as many different ways as they can, whether that is telephone, video, driveway or in person, nice and safely.

If you have any concerns about any legal issue, the first piece of advice they would give is to seek help as soon as possible. The earlier you ask, the greater the chance of resolving things. This is always preferable as it may keep a relationship with your employer, neighbour or company amicable and will keep the costs down considerably. There is no charge for an initial discussion, so no reason to delay that call.

Forest Edge’s new staff member, Samantha Tapper, heads up the Conveyancing department. Samantha has

over 10 years’ experience dealing with all aspects of residential freehold and leasehold properties. She is also able to assist with first registrations, commercial short-term leases, new builds, transfers of equity and transfers of part of land.

Forest Edge is also delighted to welcome Gurmail Pardesi on board as their new dispute resolution solicitor. Gurmail has 15 years’ experience in dealing with contentious disputes, covering contracts, property and commercial, as well as personal injury work and landlord and tenant matters.

He speaks fluent Hindi and Punjabi. His approach to resolving matters is extremely proactive where possible, so that any problem is dealt with as swiftly as possible.

Forest Edge also remains available to assist with any quick swearing of documents, ID1 forms and certification.

For any queries, contact 01425 208418.

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Are you and your pets prepared for a return to normal life as lockdown eases?

By Cedar Vets Some behaviourists and animal welfare organisations are concerned that we may see a rise in pet behavioural issues as our lifestyles change following lockdown. Just like us, all pets are individuals, and some will find adjusting to these changes easier than others.

During lockdown our pets have grown used to us spending more time at home, and the youngest have never known anything different. One particular area of concern is the possibility of our pets developing separation-related issues.

Signs of separation anxiety Signs can be subtle to begin with, such as sitting still/frozen when left alone, eating less, panting, or pacing/not settling.

This can progress to more obvious and distressing signs, such as crying/howling, destructiveness, or house-soiling.

Tips to prevent separation anxiety Your pet needs to feel safe and secure when left alone. A den, bed area or crate in the corner can help to create a safe haven.

Slowly build up the time your pet spends alone. Start small – it could be a simple as keeping them in the living room while you go to the kitchen to make a cup of tea.

Pens or baby gates can be used to enforce separation while giving pets the reassurance of still being able to see you.

Provide your pets with long lasting treats or foraging toys to help make alone time an entertaining and positive experience.

What to do if you think your pet is developing separation anxiety Contact your vet for a pet health check, just to make sure they aren’t in pain or have any other underlying problems.

At Cedar Vets, once any health issues have been ruled out, they can offer you behavioural advice or refer you to a qualified behaviourist if necessary.

Contact: Ferndown 01202 861622, Ringwood 01425 473683, Verwood 01202 825217

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

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education - Advertising feature -

Choosing the right school for your child is such an important decision Whether you are looking for a place for your child starting school, moving to junior school or moving on from Year 6, there is much to consider, such as: • Adult to child ratio – will your child receive the support and challenge that is right for them?

opportunities. Small class sizes ensure that staff can nurture every child both socially and academically. New starters are welcomed at any point from two to 13 years of age.

To find out more visit: www.durlstoncourt.co.uk/learningwithout-limits

• What specialist facilities and teachers does the school have?

• What kind of support is available – not just academic support but emotional support too?

• Does the school provide wrap around care- before school clubs, engaging after school programme and holiday activities?

• Can the school provide an all-round education - teaching high quality music, art, STEM, outdoor learning and sports?

• How will my child be prepared for their future school?

• Will my child be happy and inspired?

At Durlston Court Prep School the specialist teachers and facilities offer inspiration, challenge, support and limitless

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motoring / keeping you on the road.

Get ready for spring motoring Winter’s cold weather and icy road conditions can put extra strain on your car, especially this year as the lockdown has meant less driving for most people.

As we emerge from both winter and lockdown, now is the time to make sure that your car is safe and ready for your spring outings by checking the following: Clean under your car During winter, your car will have picked up a layer of salt and grime. Getting under the car with a hose or going to the car wash will remove potentially corrosive residue.

Check your tyres Make sure your tyres are not below the minimum legal tyre tread depth, which in the UK is 1.6mm. Check the overall condition of your tyres too, and be sure to check tyre pressure regularly.

Battery health Batteries can deteriorate quickly in cold temperatures. If it takes a few extra seconds to start your motor, or if your battery is more than four years old, consider getting it tested and, if need be, replaced.

Top up fluids You won’t want to break down, so make sure your fluids are topped up. Topping up oil, coolant and screenwash is a quick job that could save you time and money in the long run.

Make sure you can be seen Check all the bulbs are working, including brake lights and indicators. Clean the bulb casings so they are not dimmed by dirt.

Brake health Brake pads need to be clean to operate properly – and after a long winter picking up grit and salt, they may not be at peak performance. It's a good idea to have your brakes checked by a professional.

Change your wipers If your wipers are in poor condition this could affect visibility. The small cost of a replacement is definitely worth being able to see the road more clearly.

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

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motoring

New electric vehicle chargepoints Electric vehicle chargepoints are now live in car parks in Wimborne’s King Street and the Hub in Verwood, in addition to others across the county.

Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said, “Dorset Council is committed to becoming carbon-neutral by 2040 at the latest, and making other changes needed to help

the whole of Dorset become carbon-neutral by 2050.

Providing drivers with more chargepoints for their electric vehicles is an exciting step towards this.

“The government plans to phase out sales of new petrol and diesel vehicles by 2030, so it is important drivers are offered more sustainable travel options now.”

A quick top-up (a charge of

15 minutes) will enable a journey of about 15 miles, or a full charge will take two – four hours, depending on the vehicle.

Further chargepoints will be switched on in the coming weeks, including at Potters Wheel, Manor Way, Verwood and Westfield Close, Wimborne Minster.

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See the locations of all Dorset’s chargepoints at www.zap-map.com To use the chargepoints, download the Gronn Kontakt electric vehicle charging app from the Appstore or Google Play or visit gronnkontakt.co.uk.

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in the home / home is where the heart is .

How to avoid rogue traders

Recent news that a man who worked on a range of home and garden maintenance jobs at homes across Dorset, Hampshire, Wiltshire and Devon has been jailed for participating in a fraudulent business highlights the problems people can experience when faced with cold-calling rogue traders.

Thomas Edward Turner, who provided unnecessary and sub-standard service at grossly inflated prices, was sentenced to two years and eight months imprisonment at Bournemouth Crown Court, having pleaded guilty on 8 January, to an offence under the Fraud Act 2006. The case was brought by Dorset Council, Trading Standards, and demonstrated how unscrupulous people can manipulate homeowners on their own doorstep.

How can you protect yourself against rogue traders?

Firstly, know the things to be wary of and to avoid. These include: • Cold callers who say they’ve spotted an urgent problem

with your home and insist work must begin immediately – don’t commit to any building work, and don’t pay a deposit, as they may not return to complete the job • Special offers that force you to agree to work there and then • Going to the bank or cash point to withdraw funds for the work Instead, undertaking the following steps before engaging a tradesperson will help protect you, your home and your savings: • Don’t panic – this may be easier said than done when you have someone on your doorstep claiming that your home is in desperate need of repair, but a reputable builder will give you time to make a decision • Ask friends and family for recommendations and get a minimum of three written quotes. These should include the cost, how long the job will take, the materials to be used and the removal of any waste materials • Check online for reviews of the tradespeople you are considering using • Ask what guarantees and warrantees are in place to cover any work being done • Get a written receipt for any money paid To report concerns about rogue traders in your area the first point of contact is the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133. Or if you have someone on your property who you suspect is a rogue trader, you can also call the police on 999.

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

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in the home - Advertisement feature -

Update your home with Howdens - Advertisement feature -

Pick up a lighting bargain Poole Lighting Ltd is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of domestic lighting. Designed with passion in the UK and ethically sourced throughout the world, you will find Poole Lighting’s products for sale through the UK’s best high street and internet retailers.

Typically, the products are retailed by customers using their own brands but the company also has over 75 years of experience with its own specialist lighting brands of Endon, Interiors 1900 and Saxby.

Poole Lighting opened a factory outlet shop 25 years

ago in the middle of Poole.

Here you can purchase end of line products that are no longer available on the high street at some incredibly low prices. Visit www. poolelightingfactoryshop.com to find out for yourself and buy direct online with confidence.

As well as your statutory rights, all the products are guaranteed for 12 months.

See Poole Lighting’s advertisement on page 11 for 20% off all outdoor lighting – perfect for giving your home or garden an upgrade as social distancing measures are lifted.

With many of us looking at the same four walls for the past year, it comes as no surprise that renovating the home has moved up the priority list.

With events postponed and overseas holidays cancelled, some homeowners have found they have more disposable cash and have decided to invest in new kitchens, bathrooms or joinery. Unfortunately, the increase in demand has led to some delay in supply and long waiting times where a product is supplied and fitted by the same company.

Howdens’ Ringwood showroom has been fully trading and fully stocked throughout the lockdown period. As a trade supplier, it is proud to have been supporting local tradespeople to continue operating during the pandemic by providing supplies in a timely manner, so jobs can be completed as promised.

This also means customers have extra flexibility. They can

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choose the style of kitchen, bathroom or joinery they would like by browsing the online catalogue, or requesting one by post, and then engage the tradesperson they want to do their job depending on their pricing and availability.

For more information, visit www.howdens.com, email Ringwood@howdens.com or call 01425 322400.

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

AGGREGATE

CARPET CLEANING

ASBESTOS

CHARTERED SURVEYOR

COMPUTER SERVICES

ELECTRICIAN

DECORATING

FENCING

FURNITURE RESTORATION

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

FENCING

GARAGE DOORS

FENCING

GARAGE DOORS

GARDENING

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specialist services LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPING

LANDSCAPING

MAINTENANCE

PLASTERING

PLUMBING

OLD TOYS

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

ROOFING

WASTE CLEARANCE

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

WINDOW CLEANING

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Dorset and Wiltshire fire service on amber alert Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to attend a heath fire at Whitesheet Plantation on 5 April.

The fire spread quickly due to dry and windy conditions, but was brought under control

by the following morning.

The incident highlighted the service’s fear that the recent dry spell could result in more wildfires, and it doesn’t want to see a repeat of the devastating blaze that ripped through Wareham Forest last year.

Therefore, it has issued an Amber alert, which means that should a wildfire start, it could spread quickly and easily.

Group manager Tim Gray said, “We are asking for the public’s help by not having campfires or using disposable barbecues in our forests and heathlands. Whilst we understand that the lifting of some lockdown restrictions, combined with the dry weather, will mean people will want to go out and about, we cannot stress enough the importance

of being fire aware. Please follow these few steps so we can avoid another wildfire in our beautiful countryside.”

Fire safety top tips: 1. Don’t have barbecues or campfires on the heath or in open spaces; the risk of a fire starting is too great in the current conditions.

2. Extinguish cigarettes properly, don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.

3. Take your litter home.

4. If you see a fire in the countryside, call 999 and report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service.

Please provide as much detail as possible about location and access, but also make sure you are in a safe place.

Fire at Whitesheet Plantation.

Credit: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

Landowners and land managers are also advised, where possible, to be prepared for fires and ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained with any cut grasses and vegetation removed from the site.

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(continued from page 4)

Dorset Local Plan meets with opposition from town and parish councils

by Marilyn Barber | newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk

Councillors from the Ferndown wards, Mike Parkes, Cathy Lugg and Julie Robinson, together with Andrew Parry from the West Parley ward have provided a joint response as they feel the areas are intrinsically linked.

Speaking on their behalf, Cllr Parkes said, “Whilst we understand there is a need for some very small scale developments and infilling, we do not support the proposals for a disproportionate part of the Dorset allocation for new homes to be located in Ferndown and West Parley.

“We feel that the best solution for the area and Dorset as a whole would be to create a ‘new town’ to take on the bulk of the new homes requirement for the county for the years to come and not just this local plan. This would attract additional government funding for improved infrastructure.”

He added they felt there was a need to deliver a small scale development of around 70-100 ‘starter homes’ to enable younger, first time buyers to remain within the Ferndown area. He said the town didn’t need any more high-end large properties.

The possible development of Dudsbury Golf Course is of huge concern to the group who argue that it forms part of an irreplaceable green lung helping to define the borders between three distinct parishes and two unitary authorities.

The group says the regeneration of Ferndown town centre should remain an integral element of the Dorset Local Plan.

The development of Ferndown and Uddens Industrial estates has found favour with the group, but it feels access should be from the A31 rather then from the Wimborne Road entrance. However, proposed industrial units at Longham and a gypsy and traveller site at Blunts Farm have not found favour and the group feels that Ferndown has more than enough care homes.

In a lengthy submission, Wimborne Town Council (WMTC) says it is unable to support the plan as it contains numerous erroneous and contradictory statements as well as out of date material. It argues that there seems to be an unjustified and unfair distribution of proposed development in the Wimborne area.

It goes on to say that the plan shows little understanding of the population,

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VIEWPOINT April 2021

the locality, the transport issues, or the topography of Wimborne Minster.

The plan fails to demonstrate any cooperation with neighbouring authorities in respect of the available brown field sites which could accommodate further housing before development of any green belt. It also disregards other potential and approved developments which will impact on Wimborne Minster such as land north of Merley where 650 homes are proposed and those on Magna Road, both in the BCP area.

WMTC is also not happy that it has been combined with Colehill as one.

WMTC would support the establishment of a new settlement in Dorset.

The loss of natural green belt is a concern, with the council saying it doesn’t consider SANGS to be an adequate or suitable replacement. The town has already sacrificed approximately 70 per cent of its green belt for housing development.

Wimborne is already the location of 55 per cent of all approved development across the SE Dorset area, with 45 per cent being spread around the remaining county. No new key employment sites have been identified.

WMTC is vehemently against land at Leigh Farm being used for development as it says this is the last remaining piece of green belt to separate the town from Colehill.

Colehill Parish Council says it feels the scale of the housing allocation for Colehill is excessive with 495 being proposed, which it feels is more than double the ‘fair’ figure of 213.

The parish council is concerned that all four of the proposed housing sites for Colehill are on green belt land, and that brownfield sites should be identified.

It feels that Colehill and Wimborne should retain their own identity.

The provision of affordable housing in Colehill has also been identified with the average house price in the village last year being £395,470, compared to £285,000 in Dorset.

Looking at the wider picture, the parish council said it considers the housing allocation was focused too heavily on East Dorset with West Dorset being allocated

very little housing.

Colehill Parish Council also fear that with much of the proposed housing in East Dorset being close to the boundary of Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, areas such as Wimborne and Colehill were at risk of being absorbed into BCP in the future.

Verwood Town Council, on the other hand, has taken a pragmatic view with a spokesman saying the authority’s submission had corrected factual information and had tweaked the emphasis rather than raising any objections.

“We all accept that additional housing is necessary,” the spokesperson said.

Dorset CPRE (Campaign to Protect Rural England) also has a view on the plan.

Peter Bowyer, chairman of trustees at Dorset CPRE said, “The housing targets proposed in the Dorset Local Plan are way in excess of any sensible forecast of local housing need. The Local Plan approach gives insufficient recognition of, or respect for, Dorset’s exceptional landscapes, wildlife and heritage including, but not only, the many protected areas and designations, including green belts in East Dorset.”

The list of locations and housing proposed is as follows in East Dorset: Corfe Mullen 400, Ferndown/West Parley 1,100, Verwood 100, West Moors 170, Wimborne/Colehill 495 and Sturminster Marshall 425.

In other parts of the county: Blandford 900, Swanage 150, Lytchett Matravers 200, Wool 300, Dorchester 3,600, Weymouth 550, Charminster 340, Crossways 605, Gillingham 70, Sherborne 1,200, Stalbridge 430, Beaminster 120 and Lyme Regis 40.

Possible future housing sites: Corfe Mullen: Land south of Blandford Road, to the north of the village, west of Pardy’s Hill, east and west of Haywards Lane Ferndown and West Parley: Green Worlds, Ringwood Road, east and west of New Road, West Parley, Dudsbury Golf Course, and Angel Lane Verwood: Land south of Manor Road West Moors: Land north of Azalea Roundabout Wimborne Minster and Colehill: Land at Leigh Farm, land at Northleigh Lane, land north of Wimborne Road, and south of Wimborne Road West Sturminster Marshall: Land at Station Road, Springfield Farm and Sturminster Marshall Golf Course

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