Viewpoint December 2021

Mid December 2021 Volume 46, Issue 2

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Christmas is coming! local knowledge | local reporters | local news

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

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VIEWPOINT

Volume 46 • Issue 2 • December 2021

Dear readers

VIEWPOINT

I’m ashamed to say I was beyond desperate.

I know it’s pathetic to admit that I can’t function efficiently without my mobile phone – particularly as I grew up in an era when they were unheard of – but that’s how I felt when I had the sudden realisation that I had left my one and only charger in a hotel room.

And it’s not the first time I’ve done it either.

I was travelling home on a train from Swansea, surrounded by people glued to their screens, when the penny dropped.

A glance at my phone confirmed that the battery was very low.

I have my calendar on my phone and knowing I had a very busy week ahead of me, panic set in.

It didn’t help that I had the words of a friend – who carries a small diary everywhere - ringing in my ears, saying ‘what would you do if you lost your phone; you wouldn’t know where you should be or what you ought to be doing’.

Also I do use the phone for what it was initially intended – to make and receive calls – with my landline now almost redundant.

And my emails come through on my phone, so I can respond to anything important when I’m not at my desk. Not sure if that is an advantage sometimes but it is a necessity in our fast moving life.

So as you can imagine I breathed a sigh of relief when the charger arrived through the post on the day after I ordered it.

I was back in the world.

At least I have one New Year resolution that I plan to keep. Not to leave my charger in hotel rooms.

We wish all our readers and advertisers a very happy Christmas and a healthy New Year – and if you have a view on the future of Pippins, in Wimborne, read page 26.

Marilyn Barber News editor

recycle

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

Ben Pulford managing director ben@dorsetview.co.uk Louis Pulford creative director DD 01202 233441 louispulford@brightboxdesigns.co.uk

Nick Pulford company secretary accounts@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

NEWS DESK 01202 870270

Janine Pulford editor janine@dorsetview.co.uk Marilyn Barber news editor newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk Karen Wyatt-Epapara deputy editor karen@dorsetview.co.uk

ADVERTISING 01202 816140

Mark Beechey account manager DD 01202 941465 mark@dorsetview.co.uk Simon Thornton account manager DD 01202 941470 simon@dorsetview.co.uk Calls may be recorded for training and quality purposes.

DESIGN TEAM Chloe Baxter junior designer designstudio@pulfordpublicity.co.uk

LOGISTICS Mike Talbot

Picture of the month View from Swyre Head

How to contact us 01202 870270 Email: news@dorsetview.co.uk Web: www.dorsetview.co.uk Twitter: @Dorset_View Facebook: dorsetview.news Dana House, Spinneys Lane, Ferndown, Dorset BH22 9BZ Follow VIEWPOINT MAGAZINE on FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/viewpointmagazinedorset/

Copy date 21 DECEMBER 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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Dorset domestic abuse consultation Dorset Council has produced a Draft Domestic Abuse Strategy and would like to hear residents’ views on it.

Residents have until Sunday 12 December to have their say on the proposals.

Tackling domestic abuse has been a priority for the council and organisations in Dorset for many years and this year the government passed the Domestic Abuse Act 2021 that places specific responsibilities on councils, including creating a domestic abuse strategy.

Molly Rennie, Dorset councillor who leads on domestic abuse work, said: “We want people affected by domestic abuse to come forward, speak out and be heard. You are not alone.

“We know that domestic abuse comes in many forms. It can involve physical violence, but it can also be psychological. This type of

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

abuse leaves no marks or scars but can cause victims to experience fear or loss of freedom. The home should be a safe place for everyone, but for some – it is a place of fear and danger.

“The consultation is vitally important to ensure our residents can have their say and tell us their views before the draft strategy is published in January next year. We are really interested to hear your views so please take time to complete our short survey.”

If you are affected by domestic abuse, call the Paragon domestic abuse helpline on 0800 032 5204, 24 hours a day, or search online for ‘DVA help Dorset’ or visit the website for contact details.

In an emergency, always dial 999.

Have your say on https:// wh1.snapsurveys.com/s. asp?k=163638487414

Teenage boy charged with possession of knife A 14-year-old boy has appeared in court charged with possession of a knife and drug offences in Wimborne.

Officers from the local neighbourhood policing team were on patrol in Wimborne on the afternoon of 17 November 2021 when they stopped a 14-year-old local boy and had reason to carry out a search.

A Gurkha-style kukri knife was seized, along with a quantity of suspected cannabis.

The boy was arrested and subsequently charged with possession of a knife in a public place and possession of a class B drug and appeared at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Thursday 18 November 2021. He is next due to appear at the same court on Tuesday 4 January 2022.

Overall crime drops in Dorset

Dorset Police has seen a six per cent drop in recorded crime, according to new figures released on 4 November, and has the ninth lowest crime rate in England and Wales.

This is the sixth consecutive quarter where a drop in overall crime in the county has been seen. The figures cover the 12 months to the end of June 2021.

While the Covid-19 restrictions have contributed to a reduction in some types of crime, the force has kept a strong focus on detecting and preventing crime that affects vulnerable people such as domestic abuse, serious sexual offences and violent crime.

The figures showed a drop of 1.9 per cent in violence against the person offences and seven per cent in violence with injury offences.

Victim-based crime reduced by 6.8 per cent. There was increase in sexual offences by 3.4 per cent compared to a national increase of 7.9 per cent, while rape offences decreased by 1.4 per cent.

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Over £1million to update civic centre Built as the Mount Dore Hotel and formerly Bournemouth Town Hall, the BCP Council Civic Centre is to be remodelled at a cost of over £1million.

Whilst the initial phase of works will focus on the council chamber and committee meeting rooms, a second phase will be evaluated to better understand the best way to achieve improved accessibility and fire safety measures.

The budget for the delivery of phase one of the BCP Council civic space is £1.067 million, including a 17.5 per cent contingency to account for fluctuations in the supply chain. This

also includes feasibility funding for the accessibility and fire safety works.

As parts of the space were classified as grade II listed in 2001, and date back to the Mont Dore Hotel built between 1881-1885, the council will need to undertake all works within the constraints of its heritage listing.

Firearms arrests in Lytchett Matravers Four men and two women were arrested on Friday 26 November following a warrant at an address in Lytchett Matravers. They were arrested on suspicion of possessing a shotgun without a certificate following an extensive search of the property. The operation involved support from a range of specialist units, including firearms officers and search teams.

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Dorset Council on way to carbon neutral Dorset Council has high hopes that it will become carbon neutral by 2040.

The authority, which in 2019 declared a Climate and Ecological Emergency (CEE), has published its first Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy Progress Report.

Some of the key headlines are: • In 2020/21, the council’s carbon emissions reduced by around 17 per cent • Business travel reduced by 60 per cent, or 1,614,487 miles and it is estimated staff commuted less than half as much in 2020/21 • Energy use in Dorset Council buildings reduced by 21 per cent from 2019/20 to 2020/21 • In 2020, the council secured an additional £4.8m to extend the Low Carbon Dorset programme to 2023.

To date the programme has received over 500 applications for support and awarded 150 grants to support £5m worth of low carbon projects • In 2019, Dorset and BCP local renewable energy sites generated

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

484 Giga Watt hours (GWh) of renewable electricity, equivalent to just under four per cent of Dorset and BCP’s total energy demand. There is another 246MW (mostly solar) currently in the planning system that may be installed in the coming years • The grounds, ranger and arboriculture teams now all use battery-powered frontline tools, powered by the council’s own solar panels, which should save 8,000 litres of fuel each year • As part of Dorset Council’s pollinator action plan, it is using methods to protect, conserve and enhance highway verges and other green spaces. This has included purchasing two more cut and collect machines, which will benefit an additional 350,000 m2 of highway verge and amenity spaces • The Dorset AONB team have secured over £1.3million over three years for a ‘Farming and Protected Landscapes’ project. This will provide funding to support projects to manage land for nature, climate, people and place

Cllr Mrs Kelly Webb with Wimborne in Bloom members John Allen (seated), Terry Wheeler and Richard Nunn, and Pauline Wheeler buying raffle tickets

Fair in Wimborne raises £4,000 for charities

The Grand Charities Fair organised by Wimborne in Bloom was a big success with 24 local charities and organisations taking part and 500 people attending throughout the day.

Held in the Allendale Centre, a total of £4,000 was raised for causes represented by the charities.

Stalls included those raising money for Cystic Fibrosis, Save the Children, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and one of the mayor’s charities, High Mead Farm.

Wimborne in Bloom also had a successful table with three hampers as prizes.

Entrance was free, but the public generously donated over £140 on the door.

The first Wimborne in Bloom event of 2022 will be the Wine and Wisdom Fun Quiz Evening on 4 March in the Allendale Centre.

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Greener homes

Dorset residents had the opportunity to explore ways to make their homes greener at an event hosted by Dorset Climate Action Network in October.

Fifty homes were opened to the general public to showcase the changes made to make them more energyefficient and sustainable.

Some of the homes were older buildings that had been updated to make sure they were well-insulated and draught-free. Solar panels and batteries were added to generate electricity, or heat pumps installed to heat the homes. Other homes were newly built to high specifications to make them near passive – that is, needing almost no external source of power to remain lit and warm.

More than 350 visitors

were met by enthusiastic and well-informed owners who were able to share their experience of what it was like to live with new technologies.

Other homeowners showcased a change in lifestyle; growing their own organic fruit and vegetables, repairing rather than throwing away and buying new, building from recycled materials, ditching the car and generally being conscious of consuming less.

The event will run again in 2022, but if you’d like to start making changes sooner, you can find information at www. dorsetcan.org/contact.html

Air ambulance nominations Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) has been shortlisted in five categories at this year’s Air Ambulances UK Awards of Excellence.

The nominations were: • Practitioner of the Year – DSAA’s patient and family liaison nurses, Jo Petheram and Kirsty Caswell • Doctor of the Year – Dr Phil Hyde, DSAA medical lead • Innovation of the Year – a collaboration between DSAA, the Wales and West Acute Transport for Children Service (WATCh), Bristol Children’s Hospital Trauma Team Leaders (BCHTTL) and the Southampton Oxford Retrieval Team (SORT)

• Special Incident of the Year – a multi-agency chain of care involving DSAA and a cyclist who suffered a cardiac arrest whilst cycling along a disused railway line in May 2020 • Charity Team of the Year – the DSAA charity team The DSAA is a registered charity and receives no direct funding. You can support them this Christmas, up until 21 December, by buying a bauble, giving a gift or sending a card. Each option includes a donation for the DSAA. For more information, see www.dsairambulance. org.uk/share-the-giftof-life-this-christmas

Arson forces evacuation Dorset Police believe that a fire in a block of flats in Hunt Road, Christchurch was started deliberately.

The fire started in a communal hallway of the building on 16 November.

Residents were evacuated as the fire was extinguished. Five people were checked over by the ambulance service at the scene for smoke inhalation, but none of them were believed to

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

be in a serious condition.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/ do-it-online/, via email 101@ dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 16:674. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.

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NEWS IN BRIEF Refurbishment for Godshill Village Hall

Godshill Village Hall has undergone a refurbishment that will ensure it will fit for purpose for years to come. The lobby has been redecorated, new car park signs have been erected and the hall is now fully compliant with requirements for disabled access. The work was carried out thanks to funding from New Forest District Council, the Community Lottery Fund and the TH Russell Charitable Trust. Regular events take place, and the hall is also available for private hire. For more information, see www.godshillvillagehall.co.uk

Funding for culture

Hampshire Cultural Trust is to receive £240,000 from the third round of the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund.

Food festival trust needs trustees and volunteers

The Christchurch Food Festival Education Trust (CFFET) is looking for enthusiastic people who are passionate about of food, food preparation and nutrition who might consider becoming a trustee or assisting the charity in a voluntary capacity.

Contact Julie at enquires@julieratcliffe.co.uk .

Digital recognition for council

Dorset Council’s Digital and Change team has received national acclaim after being highly commended in the Local Government Chronicle awards, in the ‘large team of the year’ category. The accolade recognised the support the team provided to local communities during the pandemic, including setting up the Dorset Digital Hotline.

Good marks for children’s services

Children’s Services at Dorset Council have been judged as ‘Good’ by Ofsted, following an inspection of local authority children’s services (ILACS) in September.

Fordingbridge flats

New Forest District Council has received an application for the redevelopment of 47-49 High Street, Fordingbridge. The proposal is for ground floor rear extensions, the internal reconfiguration to form a shop at ground floor level; three flats -one 2-bed and two 3-bed at ground, first and second floor level and associated external alterations.

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LETTER

OF THE MONTH

Sustainability in the Early Years

New Milton pupils contribute to climate debate Children at Ballard School in New Milton took part in two national climate change conferences prior to COP26, with their feedback going to leaders and thinkers on the front line of the UK’s climate change response.

Jamie Craft and Patrick McCabe, both in Year 10, joined Tomorrow’s Engineers Week Schools COP Summit on 13 October - a national summit designed to explore ways engineers can help achieve net zero emissions.

A group of Year 7 and 8 pupils joined another online conference, sharing ideas with pupils from around the country at the first Votes4Schools youth advisory board meeting of this academic year.

Surely it is embarrassing during COP26 to be the only country in the Union that has no provisions for early childhood education for sustainable development, falling behind in its commitment to teach the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

Not only is there a need for better integration of early childhood and families services, but also a necessity for a common framework and approach, so that policies and training are understood and managed as an integrated whole rather than a dissociated collection of parts. Sustainable development and the SDGs offer that unified framework with the potential to build upon the most dynamic and impassioned bottom up initiative of preschools and parents.

We offer a ready made group of early years providers and academics who are passionate about the inclusion of the global goals for sustainability within early years, within a registered charity, https://gecco.org.uk/early-years-educators/ececsustainability-forum/ We speak on behalf of children, who are the last responsible for the climate crisis, but whose futures are at stake.

Cheryl Hadland, Founder and Managing Director, Tops Day Nurseries Barbara Chaitoff, Sustainability Lead & Early Years Teacher, Tops Day Nurseries Prof John Siraj-Blatchford, OMEP-UK Executive June O’Sullivan MBE, CEO, London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) Nick Corlett, Sustainability Manager, London Early Years Foundation (LEYF) Peter Ellse, CEO, Cosy Direct Theo Kuehn, Sustainability Lead, Cosy Direct Naomi McLeod, Senior Lecturer in Early Childhood & Education Studies School of Education, Liverpool John Moores

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

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Grants available The New Forest National Park Authority is inviting groups to apply for grants to help fund sustainable living projects in the national park.

Grants of up to £2,000 are available from the Sustainable Communities Fund (SCF) for projects which improve wildlife and habitats, reduce carbon emissions or connect new groups of people to nature.

Schools, youth groups, and other organised community groups and charities that are either based within the New

Forest National Park or include people who live within the boundary can apply.

Two examples of projects recently supported are the set-up of the volunteer-run Minstead community shop, and changes to the lighting and heating at Bramshaw Scout Hut to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

For information, visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/ communities/grants/

Green recovery planned Central south councils, universities and businesses making up the Greenprint Partnership are planning a green recovery for their region.

The Greenprint project brings together local councils from across Hampshire, Portsmouth, Southampton and the Isle of Wight, Bournemouth Christchurch & Poole Council, the New Forest National Park Authority and the region’s universities, local people and business, and is encouraging a collaborative approach to building a better future.

Partnership members are determined to take the opportunity to work with nature for a better future as the area emerges from the economic and social disruption of Covid.

Its ambition is not just to re-build the local economy in a way which reduces their impact on the climate and nature, but also to find ways of promoting the health and wellbeing of local people.

The project has five priorities: • working with nature to reduce the region’s carbon emissions • improving people’s physical and mental wellbeing through nature • protecting and improving the region’s green and blue environment • designing more sustainable places • growing green skills and jobs across the region.

Minstead Community Shop

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

Alison Barnes, chief executive of the New Forest National Park Authority and chair of the Greenprint Steering Group, said: “We are blessed with a wonderful and diverse natural environment in our region. It’s an asset for all who live and work here and can help us solve so many of the challenges we face.

Greenprint aims to find ways of working with nature to improve both our economy and wellbeing, and to protect and enhance all that we treasure about our region.”

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Pulford Publicity’s

Charity of the Year Huge thanks to Dorset View and Viewpoint As the countdown to Christmas continues, December sees our last column as Pulford Publicity’s charity of the year.

We want to extend a huge thank you to the whole team at Dorset View and Viewpoint magazines for supporting us this year, it’s been great fun getting to know you all, and your fundraising has also made a huge difference.

We’re also counting down to our Christmas Treecycling campaign – which certainly helps to blow away the cobwebs post-festive season as our volunteers hit the roads of Dorset and collect your Christmas trees to make sure they are sustainably disposed of and recycled.

We’ll be out and about across the 8, 9, and 10 January and you can book your collection at diverseabilities. org.uk/trees with a suggested £10 donation. We’re also still on the hunt for volunteers and vans so if you want to get

involved then email volunteer@ diverseabilities.org.uk and let Laura know you’re keen.

If running around Dorset collecting trees isn’t your thing, then we’d love for you to join us at our Christmas Carol Concert. This year it’s at St Peter’s Church in Bournemouth on 15 December, and we’ve got three very special guest speakers; former deputy to Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Dorset, Christine Bueno, Valerie Singleton OBE, and Maggie the seaside baker from this year’s Great British Bake Off. If readers want to continue following our adventures, then feel free to follow us across social media – we’re on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and now TikTok. Alternatively, any donations you’re able to make can be done online at diverseabilities.org.uk/donate – it’s thanks to the support of our community that we’re able to keep on keeping on.

It’s been a blast and thank you Dorset View again.

The directors of Pulford Publicity and publishers of Dorset View and Viewpoint, Ben and Louis Pulford, raised over £1,000 for Diverse Abilities in June. The brothers took part in the charity’s Dorset 3 Peaks Challenge and climbed the three peaks during a 50km walk (31 miles).

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Cat and the team at Diverse Abilities

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ringwood news

Christmas festivities

in Ringwood Festivities in Ringwood are well underway, and there are still plenty of opportunities for you to take part.

The Christmas lights were switched on at an all-day event on 28 November, and can now be seen each day while you stroll around the town.

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You can also marvel at the Christmas window displays – a competition is underway and you can vote for your favourites online. Judging categories will be for shops, businesses, other venues and an overall winner, with the winning entries to be announced on Christmas Eve.

If you still have shopping to complete, you’ll be able to find something for everyone in the town’s shops. Or, for more unusual gifts, head to the Christmas New Forest Craft Market at the Furlong on 11 December between 10am and 4pm.

For gifts that don’t cause clutter, why not purchase a voucher for a local attraction, shop, pub, restaurant or hairdresser? You’ll be supporting local businesses and giving your family or friends a chance to enjoy Ringwood at their leisure too.

If you don’t fancy the hustle and bustle of the supermarket, you can buy fresh produce for your Christmas celebrations outdoors. Ringwood Market

runs every Wednesday from 8am until 3pm and the Farmers’ Market returns to the Furlong on 18 December from 10am until 2pm.

To ring Christmas in with carols, head to the Market Place on Christmas Eve 6-8pm.

Carol singing will be led by a choir and the combined Salvation Army and Ringwood and Burley bands. Father Christmas will be there, and he’ll be collecting presents to be passed onto children who are less fortunate.

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ringwood news

Bickerley Common illegal parking

By Marilyn Barber newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk Ringwood Town Council is to tackle the issue of unauthorised parking on Bickerley Common, which has the status of Village Green.

The problem was exacerbated recently when a local resident – without authorisation from the council – placed concrete-filled traffic cones on the area.

The council is concerned that illegal parking has not only caused obstruction, it has damaged the green.

At the recent town council meeting it was pointed out that although there is a right of way for vehicles, nobody apart from the council has the right to park on the green.

It is alleged that the parking is by people who are commuting to and working in the town, or visiting the town for shopping or other purposes unconnected with the green, or living in or visiting homes nearby that lack available alternative parking. However, there is no firm evidence to support this.

Ringwood Town Council has therefore decided to prepare a signage strategy to provide information about the Bickerley and to deter unauthorised parking. In addition, any obstructions placed on the green without the council’s authority should be removed.

Changes to A31 roadworks traffic management As a result of concerns raised by Ringwood Town Council, local retailers, and residents, about the impact the westbound entry slip closure may have on the town, the following changes have been made: • The closure of the slip road that allows vehicles to join the westbound A31 from the Ringwood roundabout has been postponed until 4 January 2022. This closure was due to start on 15 November 2021.

The two lanes closest to the central reservation on the eastbound carriageway are currently closed, to allow work to be carried out within the reservation. It is intended that these lane closures will stay in place over the Christmas period to allow work to restart in the new year.

• The contraflow will now be in place by 26 January 2022.

Ringwood speeding

A Community Speed Watch held in Southampton Road, Ringwood recently reported that of the 358 cars counted between 4pm and 5pm, 44 had been speeding and four going so fast it was not possible to obtain registration details.

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ringwood news

Christmas treat for locals The Furlong shopping centre – a short stroll from the main High Street in Ringwood – has an eclectic mix of big brands, courtyard cafes and independent boutiques making it an ideal gift-buying destination.

Ringwood is fortunate to have such a vibrant selection of shops, eateries and services. The Furlong’s most recent addition is the Arboro Lounge Café & Bar. Upcoming events in the Furlong in the run up to Christmas: Sat 11 December - New Forest Christmas Craft market with Rotary carol singing, 10am - 4pm.

Ringwood celebrates Christmas Ringwood’s Winter Wanderland Christmas event on 28 November included entertainment, a market, Father Christmas arriving in a horse drawn carriage and lights switch on. It was hailed a great success.

Mayor, Cllr Tony Ring, who took part in the event,

said: “The Ringwood Christmas Fair was without doubt a mighty success and testimony to the wonderful community spirit of our town with everybody present clearly enjoying the day.

“Congratulations and sincere thanks are due to the generous sponsors

Sat 18 December - Festive Farmers’ Market (Gateway) and Rotary Santa/ gazebo/ elves in The Furlong. Bournemouth District band performing Christmas songs at noon.

and many volunteers who contributed to the creation of a very memorable day.”

There are still on going Winter Wanderland events throughout the town. Do look out for the Christmas shop window displays, which will be judged on Christmas Eve. These photographs of Winter Wanderland have been supplied by the official photographer Derek Maidment.

Until 24 December Winter Wanderland in Ringwood including shop window displays.

There will be free parking throughout Ringwood on Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 December – the last weekend before Christmas.

Here’s a little ditty to brighten your day. It was sent to us by a Ringwood reader.

“Suffer a Jet ... lag” or “An end to Male domination”

by Robbie Forrester-Addie Take a ‘y’ from a Lady, you’re getting a Lad. Take a ‘Wo’ from a Woman, you’re getting a Man. Take a ‘Fe’ from a Female, you now get a Male.

You can see where I’m going with this little tale!

No wonder the Ladies were a downtrodden lot.

It was “Back to the Kitchen and scrub out that pot!”

The Men were in charge and you did what they said.

You went back to cleaning and baking some bread.

But now, after more than a century of strife, A Woman’s no longer a subservient wife!

Hoorah’s what I say. I’ve been waiting too long.

Come on now you Women. Stand up and be strong.

I want to be led by someone with sense.

Don’t stay there all quiet and just ‘sit on the fence’.

Replace all these Men in their positions of Power, Cos I think they’re mostly an absolute ‘Shower’!

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

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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.

Stay safe and warm this winter With Covid-19 still very much among us, the flu likely to be back with a vengeance and rising fuel and food costs, this winter could cause problems for the elderly.

As we get older, our immune systems weaken and we are less able to fight off viruses, we lose muscle mass that helps keep us active and warm and any health conditions become harder to manage.

The following suggestions from Ferndown-based The Bus Stop Club Charity and Age UK may be helpful in getting through the winter, staying safe, healthy and warm.

Stay active Try not to sit still for more than an hour at a time – a little movement often will help you retain strength and mobility. If you struggle to get up and about, chair-based exercises are also effective.

Eat well Eat regularly and try to pick healthy options but remember that, if you have little appetite, it’s better to eat a little of

what you fancy than nothing.

Keep your cupboards stocked with essentials so if you do become ill or can’t venture out because of the weather, you’ll still have meal options.

Vaccinations Covid-19 booster jabs and flu jabs are available to those over 50, so if you haven’t had yours, speak to your GP. You may also be eligible for the pneumo vaccine, which protects against pneumonia, or the shingles vaccine.

keep your bedroom window closed at night when the temperatures are lowest.

Stay in touch If you live on your own, stay in contact with family, friends or neighbours. It can be lonely being on your own as the

weather restricts options for going out, and also means that, should you need help, it can be close at hand. If you don’t have anyone to call on, and need extra help, care companies can call in to check on you and help with whatever you need.

Keep warm at home Try to heat your home to a steady temperature. Turning down your thermostat to 18°C can save money on your fuel bill. If you feel cold, put on extra layers and keep a blanket handy to pop over your legs if you’re sitting still for a while. Close the curtains at dusk to keep the heat in and

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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.

Older people thankful for winter grants People who donate their government Winter Fuel Payment to Dorset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter appeal, will be heartened to know just how much it is appreciated by recipients who are in greater need.

Over the last five years, an average of 590 people have died in Dorset from cold-related illnesses, the

Pat Turkiss

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

majority over 65, because they cannot afford to keep their heating on. Dorset Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter appeal, run in partnership with Citizens Advice offices across the county, gives grants of £200 to help with the bills.

The charity is asking people who receive the government Winter Fuel Payment and feel they don’t need all or part of

it to donate it to the appeal, which is in its 11th year.

Last year it raised £102,000 and helped more than 450 households across the county.

Pat Turkiss, 83, said before having the grant she used to fear putting on the heating for long and just kept one room warm.

“There were days when I used to think ‘shall I have a hot meal or shall I have the heating on?’

“I’m very frugal and I try to keep my bills as low as I can. I worry that this winter is going to be a real trial because everything is going up,” she said.

Mrs Turkiss, who lives locally, has been on her own since Bernie, her partner of 30 years, died two years ago. She said: “I make sure I am wearing plenty of layers and woolly socks. I can’t move around as much now so I’m sat in the same chair most of the day.”

Citizens Advice project manager Kate Pryce said this winter, with the cost of heating and food rising, is a

worry for her and her team of advisors. “Although we are not in a lockdown situation now, the lunch clubs and drop-ins where people might have gone to keep warm during the day are still not all up and running so older people are still forced to stay in their homes – and that increases their bills.”

Dorset Community Foundation director Grant Robson said: “Each year we hear these heartbreaking stories of older people having to scrape by to afford so-called luxuries we take for granted, such as waking up to a warm house.

“It’s humbling how much of a difference our Surviving Winter grants can make. Every year we are amazed at how generous people are in helping us but we still see that same number of needless deaths.

Anyone who feels they can donate will be helping us to reduce that grim total.”

Donate to the appeal at dorsetcommunityfoundation.org.

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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.

New Dorset school for SEND pupils St Mary’s School in Shaftesbury, which closed in March 2019, has been renamed Coombe House School, after the original house on the site.

Dorset Council bought the complex for £10.05m in order to turn it into a centre for young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).

Earlier this year Dorset View editor Janine Pulford and news editor Marilyn Barber were privileged to be invited to

Coombe House School

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

the see the premises, which stretch to 165,000 square feet of accommodation set within grounds of 55 acres. A huge amount of furniture and equipment was included in the purchase.

The school is being developed with facilities to improve the lives of Dorset children with SEND, and to reduce future costs.

The first teachers have been recruited; they are

experienced staff with a range of primary, secondary and special education backgrounds.

Headteacher Katie Charles, who joined the project in October, said: “I’m looking forward to welcoming my new colleagues to Coombe House School so we can build long-lasting relationships with our students, parents and the community.

“The school will be dedicated to preparing our students for their future. This underpins our promise to equip every student with the essential life skills, knowledge and qualifications to ensure they embark on the next stage of their life journey with as much confidence and independence as possible when they leave.”

Coombe House School will open in spring 2022. Before this, a transition process will begin early in the new year for the young people and their families who will be the first students joining the school. It is anticipated that 60 students will

join the school in the first year, and this will grow to around 280 students over the next five years.

Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said: “The admission process starts with a council referral to the school. If it is decided by the family and school professionals that the school can meet the young person’s needs, a plan will be developed to make transition as smooth as possible.

“The children and young people will join the school at a time that’s right for them, not necessarily at the start of a new school term. The school will work closely with each child and their family, alongside professionals, such as education psychologists.”

Currently, more than 250 Dorset children and young people with SEND are educated in expensive, independent provision, many far out of the county. This costs Dorset Council around £14m a year.

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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.

Getting enough vitamin D Vitamin D helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which are needed to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.

A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to bone deformities such as rickets in children, and bone pain caused by a condition called osteomalacia in adults.

Children from the age of one year and adults need 10 micrograms of vitamin D a day. The body creates vitamin D from direct sunlight on the skin when outdoors and, in spring and summer, most people are able to make all the vitamin D they need. However, in winter, this is not the case, so an alternative source may need to be found.

Vitamin D can be found in a small number of foods including: • oily fish, such as salmon, sardines, herring and mackerel • red meat • liver • egg yolks • fortified foods including some fat spreads and breakfast cereals The NHS advises that, as it is difficult to get all the vitamin D you need from food alone, adults and children over four years of age could consider taking a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D during the autumn and winter.

Different guidance applies to younger children, and more information can be found at www.healthystart.nhs.uk.

You cannot overdose on vitamin D through exposure to sunlight, but too much vitamin D through supplements over a long period of time can cause too much calcium to build up in the body (hypercalcaemia). This can weaken the bones and damage the kidneys and the heart. Some people have medical conditions that mean they may not be able to safely take supplements. If in doubt, you should consult your doctor.

University Hospitals Dorset dermatology team

Dermatology team recognised at BMJ awards University Hospitals Dorset’s dermatology team has been recognised for its new system whereby patients can electronically add photographs to their medical records, which are then examined by a consultant without the need to come in to hospital.

The system has earned the team recognition from the British Medical Journal (BMJ), taking second place at the publication’s national award ceremony.

The service was set up at the start of the pandemic and ensured all patients who needed to were ‘seen’ within the two week target, with 66 per cent being managed completely remotely. Once the images were uploaded by the

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patient, a consultant would then determine whether the patient needed to come in for a follow up appointment, or be booked directly in for surgery.

The team worked closely with the IT department and the image transfer service was set up in just three weeks.

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| 21

Verwood Rotary round up

NEWS IN BRIEF Bi-monthly litter pick

A team of 19 volunteers recently gathered for West Moors’ bimonthly litter pick. Between them, they collected 19 bags of rubbish. The next litter pick will be in January, with the date to be confirmed.

By Louisa Hiscock, president This month the club has continued to meet regularly and was recently joined by Richard Frampton, who gave an entertaining talk about his microbrewery producing apple cider called ‘Dickie’s Dribble’ - members also enjoyed the opportunity to sample some cider.

Rotary members worked hard to collect gifts for our annual Shoebox Christmas Appeal, including from all our local schools. The club was delighted to take over 180 boxes to the district’s collection point. Soon these will join thousands of boxes being transported around the world to disadvantaged children for Christmas. Our sincere thanks go to all who supported this appeal.

Some members attended the recent District Conference. It was lovely to meet up with other Rotarians from right across the southern region to exchange news and ideas to support and fundraise in the community. It was also great to hear guest speakers, who included Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards.

On Remembrance Sunday, I was honoured to represent our club at the service and lay a wreath. What a fantastic turn out of the community on such an important occasion, with so many organisations and services represented by all ages.

Fundraising for Dementia UK (my president’s charity) continued with a ladies’ get together taking the overall total to almost £400. Tickets will be on sale soon for the next big fundraiser – the Swing Band Evening on 26 March.

Funds raised from the Rustic Fayre are now being allocated to local groups and charities – knowing the funds will make a real difference locally keeps us going.

Finally, look out for us supporting Father Christmas around Verwood this month.

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

Grants awarded

Chip van goes up in flames A family business has been left in ruins after a fire in West Moors.

Lime Coast Catering, which runs a mobile fish and chip van that visits rural areas with no chip shop and provides catering for events, is owned and run by Mike and Rachel Ralph.

On the evening of 15 November, the van caught fire while parked in the driveway of their home in Uplands Road. Mike was able to remove the gas bottles and move the van further from the house, preventing much greater damage.

However, the van was gutted and the business has had to close for the foreseeable future.

Regular customers are keen for the pair to restart their rounds, and many have donated to a fundraising campaign. More than £1,000 has been raised to help get them back on their feet.

West Moors Town Council has awarded a grant of £13,300 to West Moors Youth Club. They also sent a letter of thanks to freelance youth worker and mentor Mo Shearing who has now left her post there. A grant of £600 was awarded to the Citizens Advice Bureau to assist with helping West Moors residents.

Memory tree

Would you like to add a message to a loved one on the Memory Tree on Station Road?

If so call into the West Moors Town Council offices in Park Way to write your message on a star or a dove and it will be added.

Duck dash

The annual Boxing Day duck dash will take place at Farm Road, West Moors at 10am.

Tickets £1 with £100 top prize.

Buy tickets from 1st West Moors Scouts in the village on Saturday 4 and 18 December 9am-noon.

Concert raises £1,400 for Macmillan Unit A concert held in West Moors has raised £1,400 for Macmillan Caring Locally, which is raising funds to build a new unit at Christchurch Hospital.

Two concerts entitled ‘Sunrise, Sunset’ were performed to capacity audiences at St Martin’s United Reformed Church.

Christopher Legrand said: “We are overjoyed by the generous support we have received for this valuable and essential charity. It has been an honour to perform for this important cause.”

From L-R: John Porter, Francesco Iannuzzo, Daniela Ievolo, Dianne Tompkins, Rosemary Legrand and Christopher Legrand

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Christmas in Verwood

Extravaganza

verwood news

Verwood Christmas

Saturday 11 December Ferrett Green 5-8pm

A previous Christmas Extravaganza

After missing out last year, residents of Verwood will once again be able to celebrate the festive season with the Verwood Christmas Extravaganza.

Being mindful of the current Covid situation, the event will be on a smaller scale, but organisers say there will be plenty to entertain everyone and hope that people will come along and enjoy themselves.

There will be music by Verwood Concert Brass and a choir; a balloon model maker will entertain the children; the Scouts will hold a burger stall, while the Verwood and Three Legged Cross Twinning Association will be selling mulled wine.

Father Christmas will be there courtesy of Verwood Rotary Club.

Town clerk, Val Bright, said: “After we missed out on the Christmas Extravaganza last year, we wanted to put on an event that people could enjoy this Christmas.

The event will be smaller than usual, as we’re trying to be careful, but there will be plenty for people to enjoy and we hope that lots of people come and join us in our celebrations.”

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| 23

verwood news

Community group

Christmas in Verwood

Fayrewood Singers

to spread Christmas cheer vocal The Verwood Community Support Group is once You can also purchase Christmas grab again hoping to spread a little Christmas cheer. bags, to be given directly to the Verwood The group plans to deliver treats and food bank, or donation cards for either small gifts to people in the community £1, £2 or £5 at Morrisons. When buying a who may be in need, or are alone or donation card, the amount will be added to unable to get out and about. your bill and, at the end of the campaign, the The group is looking for nominations, so total will be given to Verwood Community if you know someone who would appreciate Support Group and Second Chance. such a gift, please email verwoodcommunity@gmail. com. They ask that you get the nominee’s permission to share their name and address first. All delivery volunteers are DBS checked.

If you would like to donate a gift, the group would be happy to accept: selection boxes, boxed chocolates, hot chocolate and marshmallows, boxed toiletry sets, craft sets, teapot and cup sets. Donations can be dropped off at Morrisons in the Second Chance container, or you can Verwood Community email the above address for Support Group in 2020 an alternative drop off point.

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

again

Verwood’s Fayrewood Singers ladies’ choir is once again up and running after 18 months of silence due to Covid. New members are welcome to join.

Rehearsals are held at the Verwood Hub on Tuesday afternoons, from 2-3.30pm.

The choir sings a wide variety of songs in two, three and occasionally four parts. It aims to do two concerts a year and perform mini concerts for clubs and associations needing some entertainment at meetings.

There are no auditions, you just need to enjoy singing and being part of a team. For more information, contact Linda Pearson on 01202 280491.

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Christmas in Verwood

Festive

entertainment To raise your Christmas spirit, Verwood Concert Brass will be holding a Christmas concert at Verwood Hub on 18 December.

Concert-goers will be treated to a mix of traditional and modern Christmas tunes.

Admission is £10 for adults and £6 for U19s. Tickets are available from Verwood Hub. In January, you have

the chance to see Verwood Pantomime Society’s production of the Sleeping Beauty, also at Verwood Hub. Full of colourful costumes, topical comedy and wellknown songs, this will make a fun evening out once the excitement of Christmas is over.

Performances take place from 22-29 January. Tickets are available from Verwood Hub.

verwood news

All about Strauss

The recent meeting of Verwood Afternoon TG was attended by 33 ladies who were treated to a talk by Christopher Legrand entitled Vienna ‘The Waltz City’.

With pictures and accompanied

by Strauss music, members learned that in his short 45-year life, he composed many well-known pieces and managed to father 19 children.

Tea and biscuits and a raffle were held. For info ring 07787 386153.

Attempted robbery of 14-year-old boy A 14-year-old boy was walking with two friends in the area of Copse Road at around 5.15pm on Saturday 23 October when they were approached by a group of older teenagers, believed to be three male teenagers and two female teenagers.

The male members of the group demanded money from the three younger boys and pushed the victim, before pinning him against a fence.

They took a basketball that the victim was holding from him and kicked it into nearby trees.

The older group then left the scene in the direction of Verwood town centre. The

offenders were believed to be around 16 or 17 years old, one was said to be wearing a Puffastyle jacket and another was wearing a blue ski snood.

None of the boys sustained any injuries.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police atwww.dorset.police. uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn. police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210171349. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.

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| 25

Residents’ group has major proposals for Pippins site Exclusive by Marilyn Barber | newseditor@mags4dorset.co.uk Local people have welcomed the proposed demolition of the Pippins building in Hanham Road, which has long been an eyesore in the landscape of Wimborne.

But what should go in its place?

Owners Dorset Council haven’t yet decided what should go on the site of the building which once housed its children’s services, but Wimborne Residents Action Group (WRAG) has a proposal which it hopes will meet local approval – a transport hub.

John Gatrell, chairman of WRAG, said: “An area in public ownership close to and on a level with the town centre offers a chance to improve greatly the experience of residents, shoppers and visitors to the town. WRAG has presented a case for a Transport Hub on the Pippins site. This is in line with longstanding council policy and fits plans to enhance the environment in multiple ways.”

WRAG suggests that removing standing buses from the Square and nearby would facilitate improvements for wider pavements with lowered kerbs for wheelchair and buggy users within the town. Buses would still be able to drop off passengers centrally as they do now, but

The area in 1967

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

would then move to the Hub for parking, drivers’ breaks, etc. The Hub would also permit visiting coaches to drop off larger groups safely and in a more suitable environment.

A taxi rank could also be situated within the Hub. Mr Gatrell said the group was very concerned about the congestion that now exists in the Square when sometimes there are four buses trying to park.

The group’s plan (pictured) shows a well-lit and safe environment for pupils and students waiting for early morning school buses, with ample parking space nearby for parents to drop-off safely.

Mr Gatrell added: “The Hub’s location, surrounded by mature trees and located next to Willow Walk, would give a positive first impression to visitors. It is well served by nearby car parks and pedestrians will come to enjoy a much quieter, less polluted experience of walking around the town.”

The proposal was discussed by Wimborne Town Council’s planning and environment committee meeting recently.

Cllr Bill Richmond said he thought a transport hub was an excellent suggestion and the council would be

The plan proposed by WRAG

discussing the National Bus Strategy shortly. He added that community engagement was important.

Cllr Derek Burt said: “It would relieve the congestion in West Borough. West Borough is a nightmare. If we could get the taxis and buses out of that area, it would be ideal.

The best use of that site would be as a Transport Hub.” However, Cllr Ann Roberts said she would like to see social housing on the site.

The Mayor Cllr Kelly Webb said that WRAG wanted to gain the backing from the town council before the land was lost to developers and that she supported Dorset Council being urged to keep Wimborne Town Council up to date on their proposals.

Dorset Council plans to remove asbestos from the building in late January next year.

Demolition will start at the beginning of February, and will be completed before the end of March. This is subject to obtaining statutory consents, and all such parties have received prior consultation regarding this scheme.

During the demolition works, there will be temporary traffic lights on Hanham Road periodically to permit safe working and access to the site.

• Less than 60 years ago major changes were taking place in Wimborne. In the late 1960s the whole area on either side of the (then newly constructed) Hanham Road, was to see major development. The area now known for Allenview Road and its surrounding houses, the police station, fire station, Pippins, etc, was open land, covered mainly with long grass and shrubs - see picture taken in 1967 by a local resident.

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Local charity brings clean water to Ugandan villages Simon and Sue Morgan, residents of West Moors, decided in 2008 to do something useful with their two-week summer holiday. They joined a volunteer team with the UK charity Mission Direct and headed off to Uganda to help build a primary school in Rukungiri in the south west, a day’s journey from the capital Kampala. Little did they know then that the visit would not only help those school children in Rukungiri, but it would also change their lives forever.

In 2010, Simon and Sue gave up their jobs as accountants and moved to Uganda. Simon headed up the volunteer programme with Mission Direct and together they have built nursery and primary schools, a special-needs school and a rehabilitation centre for children with disabilities. This year they are completing a primary school and teachers’ accommodation in the most poor and rural village of Rushararazi in the Western Rift Valley.

Sue was particularly distressed and challenged by the lack of water. So many people, usually the children, are compelled to walk long distances in the heat to a ditch or a stagnant pond, where they find cattle grazing and drinking from the water source. That water is used by families for cooking, drinking, bathing, laundry and cleaning.

It broke Sue’s heart, so she teamed up with Ugandan engineer Mr Sunday and together they formed the

The villagers gathered to rejoice in their new borehole

Sue and Simon Morgan

NGO Mission 4 Water, which is registered as a UK charity.

Mission 4 Water employs young Ugandan men, many of whom are orphans, to manually drill boreholes which then provide clean and safe water to whole communities.

Sue says it still moves her to tears when she sees the delight on the faces of people as they pump clean water for the first time in their lives. To date, Mission 4 Water has completed 189 such boreholes which provides water for around 60,000 people.

Each facility costs just £2,500. The funding comes from a number of sources including organisations like Rotary, churches, schools and individuals. One really popular scheme is to sponsor a well in memory of a loved one.

Sue made two such wells in memory of her mum who sadly passed away three years ago.

If you would like to find out more about Mission 4 Water, visit the website https:// mission4water.org, or email Sue on mission4water@gmail.com Or to find out more about volunteering with Mission Direct visit their website https://missiondirect.org

Babies are forced to drink contaminated ditch water, leading to water-borne diseases and even death

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| 27

Remembering the fallen Remembrance services were held around the Viewpoint region on Sunday 14 November.

In Fordingbridge, an act of remembrance was held at the Memorial Gates at the entrance to Riverside Park, followed by a procession to St Mary’s Church.

West Moors held a procession followed by a Remembrance service at the memorial on the Petwyn.

In Verwood, there was a service at St Michael

Fordingbridge © Avon Valley Churches

and All Angels church, followed by a parade to the Ferrett Green memorial.

Ringwood paid its respects in various services around the town before a parade, which gathered in the Market Place.

In Wimborne, a short service of remembrance was held on the Minster Green.

In Ferndown, there was a

Fordingbridge © Avon Valley Churches

Fordingbridge © Avon Valley Churches Ferndown parade © Tom Scrase

West Moors © Moors Town Council

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

parade between KGV pavilion and St Mary’s Church, where a service was held. It was also transmitted outside the church and livestreamed via Facebook and YouTube.

Across the region, wreaths were laid by representatives of local councils, army, RAF, police, fire service, Scouts, Guides, local organisations and individuals.

Wimborne © Anthony Oliver

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Help spread Christmas cheer in Ferndown As in 2020, Ferndown Community Support CIC will be spreading a little Christmas cheer in Ferndown again this year.

The community support group is collecting donations so that children who are less fortunate can receive a Santa sack this Christmas, and is also organising its ‘Great Christmas Front Garden Competition.’

The group aims to raise enough money to buy 90 Santa sacks to be distributed to deserving children from Ferndown and West Parley.

Hannah Hobbs-Chell, of Ferndown Community Support, said: “Having delivered 90 Santa sacks last year, we realise the importance and obvious need to support those less fortunate, and our sacks contain essentials such as stationery and toiletries, as well as toys and educational items such as board games and books. We are so excited and privileged to be able to offer these to children and teenagers alike in our community, all thanks to the wonderful community support we receive.”

Each sack costs £20 to put together and you can either pay for one sack, or donate an amount of your choosing. People and businesses can make donations to support the initiative by visiting the website www. ferndowncommunitysupport. org.uk. The deadline for donations is 11 December.

Business sponsorship is also being sought.

The ‘Great Christmas Front Garden Competition’, which is being sponsored by Meyers Estates Ferndown, encourages Ferndown residents to go headto-head with their neighbours in a friendly decoration and illumination competition.

First, second and third prizes equivalent to £65, £40 and £20 respectively will be awarded.

Entries will be judged on their creativity, fun, ingenuity and overall wow factor. Judging will take place on 20 December.

Entry forms can be found online at www. ferndowncommunitysupport. org.uk

A garden display from 2020

Christmas spirit in action Year 8 students from The Arnewood School in New Milton have collected hundreds of presents for disadvantaged children for youngsters in Bosnia, Georgia, Romania and Moldova.

The gifts will be sent to orphanages by Teams4U, the charity that runs the scheme.

Headteacher Nigel Pressnell said: “All our Year 8 tutor groups got involved and collected hundreds of gifts.

“The effort was overseen

by Head of Year James Vibert and the students put in a lot of effort because they wanted the orphans to have a better Christmas than they otherwise would have had.”

The Rev Andrew Bailey and Arnewood chair of governors Elizabeth Cook with Year 8 students and the Christmas boxes

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| 29

Top tips for a tip-top Christmas tree If you have a real Christmas tree, and you’ve put it up early, or like to keep it up until the traditional 6 January, you may be in need of tips to keep it looking fresh and stop it dropping its needles early.

These tips, courtesy of Fantastic Services, will help you look after your Christmas tree to keep it fresh throughout the Christmas period.

What trees typically survive in houses for the longest?

A Douglas or a Nordmann Fir are the best options - they’ll last for about six weeks before withering, offering the best use throughout Christmas.

Lowering the temperature in the room will slow down the drying process, keeping your tree fresher for longer.

Pick a healthy tree A healthy tree should have bright and shiny needles, they should not break easily and should be hard to pull off. A sticky trunk and sap residue are good signs, and a heavy tree also means the tree is freshly cut. Avoid grey sections, as this is a sign of dehydration.

Water it regularly Your tree should drink one litre of water per three cm of the stem diameter. That means a fresh cut tree can consume four to five litres in 24 hours. Check the water levels daily and never let it go below the tree’s base.

Without water, a tree will dry out in seven to eight days. You can’t overwater your tree, it will absorb only as much as it wants.

How do I select the correct height for a tree for my room?

You should measure the distance between the ceiling and floor, which is the vertical height limit. Include the height of the tree stand in the overall height. Doing this step before going to buy a tree will massively reduce the stress of picking the perfect tree.

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

Revive a flagging tree Give your tree a good trim which will reduce the number of waterrequiring branches. Keep the room as cool as possible and move your tree to the darkest spot of the room.

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Mince Pies This step-by-step guide on how to make mince pies will be a great addition to your festive baking.

Preparation time 20 minutes + resting

Cooking time:

15-20 minutes

Makes: 12

Ingredients 300g plain flour 75g unsalted butter, well chilled and cut into small cubes 75g lard, well chilled and cut into small cubes 3 tbsp cold water 410g jar mincemeat Caster sugar for dusting 2 tbsp milk 1 medium egg yolk

foodie news

Method 1. Sieve the flour into a large mixing bowl.

Add the lard and butter and lightly rub into the flour using your fingertips.

2. Sprinkle the cold water into the rubbed-in mixture, then mix with a round-bladed knife until a dough starts to form. Draw the mixture together with your hands until it makes a rough ball.

3. Place the pastry between 2 sheets of parchment and roll it out to about 3mm thickness, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

www.waitrose.com /recipes.

4. Preheat the oven to 180°C, gas mark 6. Cut out 12 large pastry discs using an 8cm fluted cutter, then 12 small discs using a 6cm fluted cutter. Line the bun tin with the larger discs.

5. Using a teaspoon, fill the lined tin with mincemeat, brushing around the edge with a little cold water. Gently press on the small discs.

6. Whisk the milk into the egg yolk to make a glaze.

Brush this glaze on the top of each mince pie.

7. Prick the lids with a fork to allow the steam to escape while cooking and prevent the pastry from going soggy.

8. Place into a preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 4-5 minutes in the tray. Remove and place on a wire rack. Serve warm sprinkled with caster sugar and a pinch of cinnamon.

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

Christmas dinner around the world

by Janine Pulford | janine@dorsetview.co.uk A traditional turkey roast dinner was something I looked forward to every Christmas until I was in my 20s then something happened. I became a pescetarian – a vegetarian who eats fish.

In the past, a whole salmon has graced our table on Christmas Day instead of a turkey. It is liberating to break with tradition and do something different. Yet salmon would not be considered

so different in Sweden.

Read on to find out what others around the world eat on Christmas Day. Believe it or not, KFC is a popular choice in Japan. This craze started in the 1970s when KFC introduced a Christmas ‘party barrel’ brimming with fried chicken and salad and it caught on big time.

In Sweden, a ham or a smorgasbord-style dinner is enjoyed including

Happy Christmas from the Pulfords and relatives from around the world! In loving memory of Alma, Sylvia and Maya

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

pickled herring, cured salmon and meatballs.

Christmas is a big affair in Italy with many dishes prepared on the day by family members.

Lasagne, ravioli, baked chicken, roast pork, stuffed veal rolls and more. In Southern Italy they celebrate with the Feast of the Seven Fishes.

Suckling pig is the meat of choice in the Philippines and Puerto Rico, whereas in Greenland they eat whale meat and reindeer on Christmas Day – watch out Rudolph!

Chicken or mutton curry or biryani is favoured in India.

Sliced beef tongue with vinegar and Indian spices is a delicacy in some areas.

Capon, turkey, guinea fowl or pheasant – roasted and stuffed with chestnuts – is relished in France.

In Venezuela, the dish of choice is hallaca – a mixture of pork, chicken, raisins, olives, capers, onions and pimentos,

folded into corn dough and wrapped in a banana leaf.

Germans enjoy a duck or goose with braised red cabbage and potato dumplings.

Barbecues and salads are popular in Australia because Christmas falls in the summer holiday, but a meat roast may also be enjoyed.

In Montenegro, they prefer a meatless and dairy-free meal. Usually dishes made with beans, fish and potatoes. Yum. Whatever your choice, have a very happy Christmas. But if cooking a festive meal is too much to think about this year, why not consider the option of dining out and letting someone else prepare the feast?

And finally: did you know an average Brit eats a whopping 6,000 calories on Christmas Day? Normal daily intake would usually be between 1,300 and 1,800 calories.

So factor in a nice long walk after the Queen’s speech.

Sources: goodto.com, redbookmag.com, bawarchi.com

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foodie news

British butchers serious about climate change A recent survey of British butchers, carried out by National Craft Butchers (NCB), showed they are serious about helping prevent climate change.

Of the independent butchers surveyed, it was found that many use practices that support regenerative farming and reducing food miles as: • 87 per cent prioritise local produce in their shops • 60 per cent prefer to sell grass-fed, organic or free-range meat • 38 per cent will buy animals live direct from market for full traceability Two-thirds rely on a small local abattoir to supply their meat The survey also found that shopping habits had changed.

Almost two-thirds of butchers have seen changes in their customer profile, with many saying they are seeing more younger customers who want to shop locally and care about

where their meat comes from.

According to NCB, red meat produced in the UK is amongst the most sustainable in the world, so consumers can be confident that British livestock production is part of the solution not the problem.

Recent information from Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board states that 65 per cent of farmland in the UK is unable to sustain food crops but is ideal for grazing cattle and sheep and that the UK climate is also ideal for growing grass for animals to eat.

Richard Stevenson, technical manager of NCB, said: “The results of our first Butchers Survey are a timely reminder that British craft butchers, like the farmers that supply them, take climate change seriously. They sell high quality, responsibly farmed British meat because they believe it’s the best, and so, in increasing numbers, do their customers.”

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| 33

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

Fordingbridge Christmas Glow shapes up Fordingbridge Events Group has added more events to its Christmas Glow, which will take place from 2.30-7pm on 11 December in the car park near Roundhill.

It will kick off with Santa arriving by heavy horse to his grotto.

He will appear at 3pm, 4pm, 5pm and 6pm. In between will be Christmas tunes, choirs and live music. Some steam engines will be in the car park plus stalls serving food, drink and crafts and gifts.

Fordingbridge Scouts will also run a range of stalls and activities for the family, and the Salvation Army will be doing a live nativity event.

Retailers and other organisations around the town will also be feeling the glow, with a craft fayre at URC, kids’ activities at the Created by You courtyard and a Star Wars-themed event at the town hall by All The Cool Stuff. There will also be a drop off point for parcels for the Women’s Refuge Centre outside IN Newman.

Nicky Jenkins, chairman of Fordingbridge Events Group, said: “We are looking forward to putting on the event, which will be our first in two years.”

If anyone wants to get involved, please email fordingbridgeevents@gmail.com. Volunteers are welcome for a variety of jobs including practical ones.

Ferndown land to be auctioned

Nearly 7.5 acres of freehold land at Tricketts Cross, Ferndown is to be auctioned in December with a guide price of £120,000 plus.

The freehold site is being offered by regional land and property auctioneers Clive Emson. This plot is bordered by the Moors River to the north and Thames Close to the south. The site has become overgrown and part of the site is included in an SSSI. Bidding is live from Monday, 13 December and ends on Wednesday, 15 December.

Looking for friendship over lunch?

Ferndown PROBUS is a members’ club for retired or semiretired professional men offering fellowship, friendship and fun.

A three-course lunch and talk is held on the first Wednesday of each month at Dudsbury Golf Club, Hotel & Spa, with a social coffee morning for members and their partners on the second Wednesday of each month. Call Alan Stevens, on 01202 876826, or see www.ferndownprobusclub.org for more details.

The details of the events below are accurate at the time of going to press but will be subject to any government regulations in place at the time of the event. Check before travelling. Send in details of your events to: newseditor@ dorsetview.co.uk

11 December

Fordingbridge Christmas Glow event in the car park near Roundhill. Santa will be making an appearance at, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm and 6pm. Christmas tunes, choirs and live music. Steam engines, stalls, food and drinks.

Christmas charity retro show in aid of Variety Wessex at Highcliffe Sports & Social Club with music from Alan Warners Foundations. Tickets from venue, cash only or by calling box office on 01590 679104, or www.quizbritainproductions. co.uk

18 December to 23 January

Verwood Christmas Extravaganza on Ferrett Green. Father Christmas will be there courtesy of Verwood Rotary Club.

13 December 2.30pm

19 December 6.30pm

West Moors Horticultural illustrated talk entitled Lyrical (LaMortella) by Rosemary Legrand in the Memorial Hall, Station Road, West Moors. New members welcome. Contact Sue on 01202 871536 for more information.

15 December 10.30am–3pm Make Christmas earrings or decorations at the monthly craft market at GATHER in Dolphin Centre, Poole. Small charge for some materials or a donation to Alzheimer’s Society. Workshops start at 11am.

15 December, doors open 6pm

Diverse Abilities’ Carol Concert at St Peter’s Church on Hinton Road, Bournemouth, Speakers include Valerie Singleton.

Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/ carolconcert or call 01202 711502 to book tickets.

17 December 6pm

17 December – 2 January

Sleeping Beauty at the Tivoli.

Various times. Box office 01202 885566.

18 December 11am

Shoppers Carol Service in Wimborne Minster church.

18 December 7.30pm

Bournemouth Folk Club St Ambrose Church at the top of Alum Chine in Westbourne presents Jackie Oates Trio. For more information or to book, visit https://bournemouthfolkclub. com/ VIEWPOINT December 2021

18 December 8.30pm, doors open 7.30pm

Putting on a Show exhibition at Red House Museum, Christchurch. Behind the curtain of the magical world of theatre.

Admission free and no need to book.

11 December 5-8pm

Carols in Wimborne Cornmarket.

Bring a lantern or a torch if you have one. Plastic glow sticks will not be used this year as Wimborne is a plastic free town. Music will be provided by Broadstone Community Concert Band.

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Events

Service of Lessons and Carols in Wimborne Minster church.

1 January 2022 11.40am

Poole’s annual charity bath tub race on Poole Quay from the Customs House Steps to the Lord Nelson.

8 January 2.15pm

The Long Way Around Africa with Andy Skarstein at the World Ships Society, Dorset branch at the Centre, Barns Road, Tricketts Cross, Ferndown BH22 8XH. info@shipsdorset.org

12 -16 January

Strictly Over 16s to Bourne Free Trustee’s adult panto Peter Pansy. Various times. Allendale Centre. 01202 887247.

15 January 7.30pm

80s Mania at the Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth. The music of Kim Wilde, Duran Duran, Adam Ant, Boy George, Wham, Erasure, Soft Cell, the Human League, Dead or Alive, Nena, Madonna, Cyndi Lauper, Gary Numan, and Tony Hadley

18 January 8pm

Wimborne Civic Society presentation by Peter Scriven on Beaucroft House – a World War One Hospital in the Story of Colehill. Quarterjack Suite at the Allendale Centre, Wimborne . £1 for members, £3 for visitors.

25 January 7.30pm

West Parley Gardening club with a presentation by Roger Frampton on ‘Orchids’. Visitors welcome £3. Refreshments available. For further details please contact Rod Darch 01202 896711. Email rod@ rdconsulting.co

27-30 January

Highcliffe Charity Players present Sleeping Beauty at the Regent Christchurch. For a chance to win a family ticket check out the competition on page 37.

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

Forget-Me-Knot

An Injection of Happiness

Review by Marilyn Barber • newseditor@ dorsetview.co.uk After a pandemic enforced two-year absence, this company chose a humdinger of a play to start their new season.

With more twists than a corkscrew and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, it was clear that the audience had really missed local theatre.

The nub of the story is a simple one. A man has turned up at a police station in Leicester supposedly suffering from amnesia.

Peter Watson is never less than polished in his portrayals and although he had sworn that he would never play the part of a policeman again, it is difficult to see how anyone could better his performance as the hapless and disillusioned Detective Inspector Monroe.

Spot on timing is crucial for this part and Peter was never afraid of a momentary pause, accompanied by a facial expression that said it all.

Richard Cawte as Robert, the man with the loss of memory, was a great foil for the inspector, and he put in an enthusiastic and well-rounded performance.

Alyssa Thompson was suitably vague and mysterious as Julia Zeinfeld, the supposed wife, whilst Jenny Hughes, who has metamorphosized into numerous quirky characters over the years, encapsulated perfectly the character of Samantha.

The set was effective and the sound effects timed to perfection.

Running to two hours including an interval, this production made a great evening out.

20 November

Broadstone Players Theatre Company Broadstone Memorial Hall

Wimborne Musical Theatre Allendale Centre, Wimborne

Review by Marilyn Barber | newseditor@dorsetview.co.uk When I saw the programme for this production I decided I would rate each of the 42 – yes an incredible 42 – numbers with stars to help me to do the review.

However, I soon discovered that wouldn’t work as I was awarding so many stars to the performers of each song, that I realised it wouldn’t be fair to single anyone out as they were all so good.

And I thought how lucky we are to have such talent in the area.

I had enjoyed a superb play in Broadstone on Wednesday and here I was being treated to some brilliant, well rehearsed performances on the Saturday.

We have all needed cheering up after nearly two difficult years, and this was the show to do it.

With numbers ranging from Spread a Little Happiness to Bring Me Sunshine and Happy to the people pleaser Sweet Caroline, the joy just continued.

However, amongst the 42 numbers, were two monologues, which I have to mention,

as they were inspired.

Dressed as a cleric, in the first half Phil Evans had an imaginary phone conversation with a certain Boris and in the second misread a vicar’s notes. Hilarious.

In addition to Phil, the 17 other performers were Hilary Baker, John Bounds, Mikaela Buckby, Jemma Cable, Peter Doolan, Julie Gower, KD Johnson, Ron Kite, Bill Mason, Pam Mizon, Lee Neal, Michelle Needham, Debbie PotterWhite, Selina Rumbold, Duncan Sayers, Marion Taylor and Vanessa Wassell. So they all get a mention.

And in October, audiences at the Merryfield Theatre in the Verwood Hub also had a chance to enjoy this musical celebration of 40 upbeat songs.

What a shame that after what must have been intense rehearsal and planning, that there aren’t further performances to enjoy.

I have attended many productions by this company, and this was one of the very best. It was clear the audience agreed.

Wimborne Christmas lights switch on Despite the arctic conditions, there was a warm welcome from the crowd for the switching on of Wimborne’s Christmas lights on Saturday 27 November.

There were speeches by Martin Pate, chairman of Wimborne BID and the Mayor of Wimborne Kelly Webb, and the tree was blessed by the rector of Wimborne Minster, the Rev Canon Andrew Rowland.

The programme of events during the day included Dorset Youth Marching Band, children’s entertainer Jamie Jambo, Susie Kimbo, Soul Party, Blue Moon Boys, Big Night Out and Love Soul Choir.

The lights were switched on by Reg Dunningham whose 90th birthday was fast approaching. Reg, together with his late wife Eleanor was very involved with the town, particularly with the Chamber of Trade.

The events concluded with the Wimborne Militia on the Minster Green.

There were collections during the day for the Mayor’s charities, Diverse Abilities and High Mead Farm.

The event was sponsored by Wimborne BID and Wimborne Town Council.

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

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COMPETITION

Carabosse (Stanley Smith)

Sleeping Beauty at the Regent Centre, Christchurch Highcliffe Charity Players

Would you like to see Sleeping Beauty in January? Viewpoint has teamed up with the Regent Centre in Christchurch to offer the chance to win a family ticket (two adults and two children under 16) to Sleeping Beauty on Thursday 27 January at 7.30pm.

Princess Aurora’s christening is the perfect day until the wicked fairy Carabosse arrives uninvited. In revenge, she casts a spell that the princess will prick her finger on a spinning wheel and die before her 21st birthday. Unable to break this evil magic, the Fairy Queen sends the princess to sleep for 100 years. Can a heroic prince save the day? Perhaps a true love’s kiss is the answer?

The pantomime runs from 27-30 January 2022. Tickets are available online at www.regentcentre.co.uk or by calling 01202 499199.

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

Sleeping Beauty (Georgina Carter) Good Fairy (Emma Barrington)

Q. How long does the Fairy Queen send the princess to sleep for?

around & about

Wimborne to be aglow in the Cornmarket The popular Carols in the Cornmarket returns after last year’s absence and takes place on Friday 17 December.

However there will be a difference. In order to help with climate change and, as Wimborne is a plasticfree town, there will be no glowsticks. Instead, the Cornmarket will be lit up with lanterns.

Anthony Oliver, one of the organisers, said: “If you have any lanterns do please bring them along, also your own torches and enjoy what we hope will be a magical evening.”

Music will be provided

by Broadstone Community Concert Band and carol sheets will be available. A collection will be taken for the mayor’s charities.

The event is sponsored by the Wimborne BID, Optique 2000 and Wimborne Minster Town Council.

Enter online at www.dorsetview.co.uk or send your answer to the address on page three of this magazine. Closing date is 15 December 2021. The first correct answer drawn will be the winner. Employees of Pulford Publicity Ltd or the Regent Centre are not permitted to enter.

There is no cash alternative. The editor’s decision is final. Personal details will be stored securely and will only be processed to determine the winner of the competition. The winner will be announced in the magazine and their name and phone number will be passed to the venue or the promoters for the purposes of allocating the ticket.

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| 37

motoring / keeping you on the road.

Driving in the dark In winter, we are much more likely to drive in the dark, which can change the road conditions and how we drive, especially as visibility is reduced.

Here are some tips on staying safe while driving in the dark from rivervaleleasing.co.uk.

Keep your windows clean • Build up of dust and grime, both inside and outside of your windscreen, may not be noticeable in daylight but can cause glare from oncoming headlights. Keep your windows clean so your visibility is not impeded.

Be seen on the kerbside • If you need to pull over for any reason in the dark, ensure you can be easily seen.

Keep reflective triangles in your car as well as a hi-vis vest with reflective panels to ensure light is easily reflected. If you are waiting for roadside assistance, it is best to stay inside your car with your hazard lights on. On motorways, move behind the safety barrier if there is one, and keep well away from moving traffic.

Check your lights regularly

Avoid looking directly into the light

• Fully functioning lights on your vehicle ensure you can see and be seen by other drivers, so it’s important to regularly check headlights, taillights and indicators. As well as being a safety issue, driving without properly operating lights is illegal and you may be stopped by the police.

• Cast your gaze slightly lower or to the right so you are focused on the white line when cars are coming towards you. This will avoid causing overexposure to light that can reduce your ability to see in the dark once the vehicle has passed.

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

Increase space and reduce speed • Leave a three-second gap between you and the vehicle in front of you. At night, you can make sure you’re not too close using your headlights – if you are unable to stop within the illuminated area, you are too close.

Practise • To become more confident with driving in the dark, you need to do it more often. Practise driving in the dark, it will help you become more comfortable in low-light situations.

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motoring

Gritters at the ready in Dorset As we head towards colder weather, Dorset Council now has its gritting crews on call.

A total of 12,700 tonnes of rock salt is in stock across the five highway depots and the gritters have been serviced and calibrated to ensure they are ready for action.

There are 22 main gritting routes treated by the Highways Service when road surface temperatures are predicted to drop below one degree. These

roads are used by the majority of the travelling public – covering 684 miles and accounting for around 28 per cent of the Dorset Council road network.

In snow conditions, gritters will concentrate solely on priority north/south and east/west routes – 22 sections of road – to keep them clear of snow before clearing the remaining gritting network. When resources allow, community link roads will then be cleared.

Dorset Council’s precautionary gritting network includes all A, B and well-used C class roads as well as: • links to hospitals, large industrial estates, transport interchanges, emergency services (including manned Coastguard and RNLI) stations and identified critical infrastructure

• routes to all urban schools with more than 500 pupils and rural schools with more than 350 pupils • primary bus routes with a substantial frequency • main routes through towns and villages with populations of more than 750.

National recognition for road safety team Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service’s road safety team have won a Recognition Award at this year’s Defence Road Safety Awards.

Up to 40 per cent of military personnel in the UK can be based in Dorset and Wiltshire at any one time. As a result, DWFRS partnered

with the Ministry of Defence in 2018 to deliver a road safety intervention known as Survive the Drive.

During the pandemic, the road safety team developed and delivered a virtual presentation, which was seen by around 3,000 military personnel.

Road safety manager Christine Sharma said: “In 2019, after cancer and operational accidents, landbased collisions were the third highest cause of death in the UK Armed Forces, accounting for 20 per cent of mortality rates. As such, the Survive the Drive presentation is an essential education tool, which has been well received since it

started three years ago.”

The programme uses film and the personal testimony of speakers to educate on the most common causes of death and serious injury on the road, but also focuses on the unique challenges facing military personnel, who may not recognise the dangers of our roads when they have been trained in warzone scenarios.

From L-R: Chief Fire Officer Ben Ansell, Rear Admiral Thomas Manson, Christine Sharma, Hannah Lynch and Ian Hopkins

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| 39

in the home

Winter home improvements

By Karen Wyatt-Epapara

While starting large and messy DIY projects in the winter may not appeal, there are plenty of things you could be doing to make your home more comfortable now.

Get the small jobs done It’s easy to ignore the small jobs, but they can mount up and feel overwhelming. While you’re stuck indoors, why not fix the dripping tap, or patch up any holes in the walls. You’ll find they don’t take long to do, and ticking those off your list is satisfying too.

Indoor DIY Smaller DIY projects are ideal for this time of year, as they cause minimum disruption. Touching up skirting boards and paintwork can refresh a room without needing to clear it completely.

Go one step further and paint or paper a feature wall, or even a whole room. Move the furniture around as you go, keeping it covered to prevent any damage.

De-clutter The run up to Christmas is the perfect time to de-clutter. You’ll make space in the lounge for Christmas decorations and leave room for any gifts you’re given.

You can use the time to assess your storage too, and invest in new shelving, or get rid of unwanted units at the same time.

Deep clean Kitchens and bathrooms benefit from occasional deep cleaning – clean your oven; empty the fridge and throw away any old jars before restocking with Christmas goodies; give grouting some attention; and clean ceiling fans and light fittings. You can even replace sealant around sinks and baths if yours is getting mouldy.

Update décor New cushions, throws or duvet covers can give a room an updated look for minimal cost, as can changing artwork or photos or adding new plants.

Plan ahead If you have big plans for a new kitchen or bathroom, start planning now. Visit showrooms, look in magazines or online to find styles that you like. Be aware that builders and fitters are in high demand at the moment, and it may take a while to get the parts you want, so book in now, ready for the work to be done when the weather gets warmer.

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| 41

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

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42 |

VIEWPOINT December 2021

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specialist services LANDSCAPING

OLD TOYS

ROOFING

TREE SURGERY

TREE SURGERY

PLUMBING

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Vantage conservatory solutions Over the past decade, conservatory roof replacement has increased dramatically due to homeowners discovering an alternative product to the original exhausted polycarbonate or glass roof.

Conservatories have usually posed as either greenhouses in the summer or igloos in the winter, which has created an inhospitable environment for all-year conservatory use. The revolutionary conservatory idea is to create a space that is optimum throughout the seasons and therefore, the use of a new, insulated, light-weight tiled roof is perfect for maximum effect and annual enjoyment.

Vantage Conservatory Roof Solutions offers a solution to the problem by installing the Supalite tiled roof system. Supalite is a leading manufacturer of insulated conservatory roof supplies in the United Kingdom. The retro-fitted, Supalite roof and ceiling system provides thermal insulation and each roof is custom made to fit your

individual conservatory. In addition, there is a choice of finishes, matching your existing property, which will make your conservatory appear as an extension.

Each installation undertaken by Vantage, using the Supalite system, includes a 10-year guarantee by Supalite, as well as the relevant Building Control Certificate needed to complete the installation.

As a building company with 20 years history in the Dorset and Hampshire district, Vantage has a reputation to uphold with its customers, as well as an accountability to Supalite and its product.

Recent clients, Keith and Anne from Hampshire, said: “We had Craig and Scott from Vantage over to work on the conversion of our conservatory roof to a lightweight tiled roof. They were very efficient, tidy and delivered on time.

We could feel the difference in temperature while they were working on the project and we are

very happy with the final result.

“This winter we have really felt the difference as it retains the heat and is so much quieter when it rains, making it a pleasure to use, and we’re looking forward to spending time in it throughout the whole year.”

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Whilst the Publisher will endeavour to represent the best interests of the client in undertaking client’s instructions, it is fully understood that it is the agreed responsibility of the client to supply Viewpoint accurate copy details of the advertisement(s) to be placed and any alterations to the copy must be received prior to copy date.

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| 43

New Forest RomanoBritish Pottery

By Julian Hewitt, Fordingbridge Museum.

Prehistoric settlement, forest clearance and cultivation in the late Neolithic and Bronze Age led to soil deterioration in the New Forest area. This made it unsuitable for agriculture. The area did, however, have good quality clay, plentiful sand and timber, as well as running water.

Because of this, in the third and fourth centuries AD, the area to the east of Fordingbridge became an important centre of Romano-British pottery production.

Whitsbury hillfort had a Roman settlement inside it and Rockbourne Roman Villa may have had an estate that reached as far as Fordingbridge where there was a ford crossing the river just south of the present bridge. In the 1950s, sewerage pipes were being laid at the site of the ford and a quantity of Roman pottery was found on the riverbed. It was assumed that a cart carrying the pots had capsized whilst crossing the river.

Heywood Sumner, who lived in Gorley in the early 1900s, was not only a talented artist but also a keen archaeologist who became the first point of contact when archaeological discoveries were made

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

in the Fordingbridge and New Item 4: Beaker found at Ashley Rails kilns, New Forest Forest area. He was inspired by Item 5: Vase found at Armsley, New Forest General Pitt-Rivers who lived on courtesy of Salisbury Museum Cranborne Chase and was the founder of modern, scientific A very high temperature of between archaeology. Sumner adopted 1,000 to 1,250 degrees Celsius could be his meticulous methods and used achieved. This enabled the production of a them to explore the Romano-British wide range of pottery that was distributed pottery kilns in the New Forest. widely south of the Thames. As well as The kilns consisted of a deep furnace fine tableware, coarser kitchenware was chamber below ground level with thick produced. The high temperatures enabled walls. The oven floor where the pots were a lustrous hard metallic gloss finish in a placed for firing was above this and was range of colours for some pieces. The finer supported by “pilasters” with vents in pieces had white slipware decorations between them to let in the hot air from consisting of circles, flowing lines, spots the furnace. The kiln was dome shaped representing flowers and cross hatching. and covered with a thick layer of turf to In 1927, Sumner published ‘Excavations retain the heat. The walls had a clay lining in New Forest Roman Pottery Sites’ which on a wattle frame and the flue was lined remains the classic work on the subject. with heath stone and pottery shards.

Kilns were located at Sloden and Ashley The dimensions of the kiln averaged two Rails Inclosures, Pitts Wood at Godshill, metres by two and a half metres. A stoke and Crock Hill and Islands Thorn. hole about four and a half metres long led There is an excellent display away from the flue. The potters would have of New Forest Pottery unearthed lived on the sites of the kilns and Sumner

by Haywood Sumner in Salisbury excavated the remains of a potter’s hut Museum, which is well worth a visit. at Islands Thorns Inclosure in 1925.

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| 45

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

Feed your garden birds this winter

During winter, natural food sources for birds run low, so it’s important to keep garden feeders and water trays topped up to help them survive through the colder months.

According to the RSPB, providing high-energy food will help your local birds build up the fat reserves they need to keep warm and, as a result, your garden could also become a hive of activity.

With over 60 per cent of the UK population regularly feeding their garden birds, research suggests that this helps around 196 million birds a year.

You don’t need a garden to be able to feed the birds, as window feeders can be just as popular with our feathered friends.

And if you run out of bird feed, chances are you will be able to find an offering or two in your cupboards or fridge.

Fruits like apples and pears, even when they’re past their best, can be snapped up by blackbirds and thrushes, while grated mild cheese can be a fantastic source of energy and protein for a range of birds. Cooked pastry, defrosted peas or unsalted bacon leftovers are also great options, as well as cooked rice, pasta and the inside of potatoes providing a great energy source.

With a range of options to help tempt your local birds into your garden, the RSPB is urging people across the country to stock up their feeders and ensure fresh water is available as winter brings the toughest and coldest months for birds.

The charity, which has been monitoring trends in garden bird numbers for over 40 years, are on hand to provide top tips on how to attract wildlife to your garden as part of their popular Big Garden Birdwatch survey.

To take part in the Big Garden Birdwatch, which runs from 28-30 January 2022, visit www.rspb.org. uk/birdwatch or text BIRD to 70030 for your FREE guide, which includes a bird identification chart, top tips for your birdwatch and RSPB shop voucher.

Goldfinch feeding on nyger feeder, credit Jenny Tweedie (rspb-images.com)

Blackbird feeding on RSPB garden bird table, credit Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)

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VIEWPOINT December 2021

Guide Dogs appeal for volunteers in Dorset Charity Guide Dogs is appealing for new volunteers to sign up as puppy raisers, fundraisers or collection box coordinators and join its team of volunteers across Dorset.

Guide Dogs relies heavily on volunteers to help improve the lives of people with sight loss and has local groups across the country.

There are around two million people living with sight loss in the UK. Guide Dogs supports people with a visual impairment to maintain their independence and live the life they choose. There are lots of different services on offer, ranging from volunteer-led services such as My Sighted Guide through to the children and young people’s services, access to technology, and the iconic guide dog service.

It costs around £55,000 to train and support a guide dog partnership throughout the dog and owner’s life. Fundraisers are needed to promote and take part in a variety of activities to raise money for Guide Dogs.

Being a puppy raiser means being responsible for the basic needs of a Guide Dogs puppy in your home for 14 months.

To find out more, go to www.guidedogs.org.uk/volunteer or call the volunteering team on 0345 143 0191.

Avian flu outbreak in Southbourne

Following an outbreak of Avian Influenza in Southbourne, Trading Standards officers from BCP Council are working alongside officers from the government’s Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA) to prevent the spread of the disease. Measures implemented include a cull of the birds who pose a direct risk, as well as further investigation into premises in the area that are breeding or keeping birds.

A 3km Temporary Control Zone has been constructed around an area centred on Castlemain Avenue with regard to animal movements, with APHA and BCP Council officers knocking on doors in the zone to check for potential further cases.

Peter Haikin, regulatory services manager, said: “Avian Influenza predominantly affects only birds and is not considered to be an illness which poses a risk to the general public.”

New housing measures to protect poultry and captive birds from avian influenza came into force on 29 November. This means it is a legal requirement for all bird keepers to keep their birds indoors and to follow strict biosecurity measures in order to limit the spread and to eradicate the disease.

For more information about Avian Influenza and biosecurity, visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/avian-influenza-bird-flu If you have reason to believe that your bird(s) have contracted Avian Influenza, you must contact the Defra Rural Services Helpline on 03000 200 301.

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